CHAPTER XXIII. 



CANVASS-BACK. ANAS VALISINERIA. 



"Now, all around us, rising trains appear. 

 Wild whistling wings on every hand we hear; 

 The alarm of death amid their legions spread, 

 In files immense they winnow over head." 



THEIR HIGH ESTIMATION. 



From among the numerous family of tlie Duck Tribe, the 

 far-famed Canvass-Back will first claim our attention, as this 

 species stands pre-eminent, both with Sportsmen and Epicures, 

 for the richness and delicacy of its flesh; in fact, it is conceded 

 in all quarters that no Wild Fowl in any portion of the globe 

 can vie in flavor with the Canvass-Back of the Chesapeake or 

 Potomac. No variety of Duck is more eagerly sought after 

 by the Sportsmen of our country, and no viand contributes so 

 largely to enhance the enjoyments of the table among the luxu- 

 rious followers of Epicurus as the presence of this delicious 

 fowl, served up piping hot, all redolent with the captivating 

 fumes of its savory flesh; and, in the words of Wilson, "Can- 



