PREFACE. 



will, I believe, be readily admit- 

 ted, that hum,an nature is incapable 

 of intense application, and requires 

 some pursuits which may unbend 

 the mind from care, and the more 

 important duties of life; amongst 

 the variety of amusements eagerly 

 sought after by mankind, there is 

 perhaps none better calculated for 

 this purpose, than angling. The 

 solitude, and retirement, inseparable 

 from the diversion, naturally dispose 

 us to meditation, calm and subdue 

 those passions which assail us in 

 crowded cities, and diffuse a peace- 

 ful tranquillity, unknown amidst the 

 splendor of courts or the bustle of 

 active life. In contemplating the 





