FISHING ROD MATERIALS 87 



all from the tops in cases made for this pur- 

 pose. 



Bethabara as a rule does not warp or take 

 set easily, but cut any wood into thin strips and 

 throw it about and it will warp out of shape. 

 Varnish puts an end to this, as it prevents 

 rapid changes of temperature from affecting 

 the wood easily. 



In preparing to work bethabara, put on a 

 pair of overalls or a long apron. The dust is 

 very penetrating and somewhat sticky, and 

 there is an oily substance that adheres to the 

 edge of the plane, dulling it until removed. 

 Wash your hands with soap and water, and you 

 will be surprised to see the water turn a deep 

 salmon color, and the lather from the soap just 

 like so much red paint. No stain need be 

 feared, however, although old rodmakers tell 

 me that after continued working of this wood, 

 their hair takes on a slight pinkish shade, due, 

 evidently, to the action on the bethabara dust 

 on the alkali in the soap. 



Dagama in perfect pieces is even more easily 

 obtainable than bethabara, and of all the rod 

 materials known I strongly advise the beginner 

 to make his first rod of dagama. He will have 

 less difficulty in working it, is more likely to get 

 first-class stock of nice straight grain, and it 



