162 The American Salmon -fisherman. 



does not weigh thirty-two pounds, and though every sal- 

 mon does not show such undaunted resolution for so long 

 a time, still perhaps it will be as well to let it stand. 

 The difference will be rather in quantity than quality, 

 and moreover the case teaches an important supplement- 

 ary lesson well worthy to be borne in mind. This fish 

 was treated from the first as though lightly hooked. Any 

 other course must have been fatal, since the moment it 

 touched the bank the hook dropped from its mouth. 



Such is salmon-fishing. If there is greater fun in this 

 vale of tears I do not know it. Better fortune I can- 

 not wish the reader, than that in sound health and with 

 sound tackle he may in the near future fasten a forty- 

 pounder, and bring him safely to gaff after a contest in 

 which each party thereto has striven to the uttermost for 

 the victory. 



