it is increased. We need not enquire wlu) formukited this notion, hut 

 we must not sliut our eyes to tlic fact, that the strength of the joint 

 is really reduced. The scheme itself, by-the-bye, is by no means an 

 adequate exposition of Highland notions, tlierefore it demands tiie 

 application of a much abused word — it is unique, in so far that it has 

 no local parallel. 



Why do Spey rods so soon bend backwards in use? Our answer 

 (iff hand is ready and simple. They do so because the force used in 

 the local manner of propelling the line is considerably more than in 

 lifting it. As a matter of course, it follows that, sooner or later, the 

 rods must show corresponding signs of weakness. 



As a further instance of a similar sort of weakness, consider the 

 inevitable (•/</ri'//:iv?;v/ curve which is commonly seen in the top joint 

 of a rod used only for the " Overhand." This arises from 

 dianictrirally opposite causes; for, in casting overhead, the force used 

 to lift the line and send it towards the rear the distance it has to go, 

 is far greater than the force required to drive the fly to its destination. 

 The argument, in our opinion, is incontroverlil)le ; it ought to be 

 convincing, and no mure doubts and uncertainties should be 

 entertained. 



But what of the system fur which our new st_\-le of Spey rod was 

 devised ? We shall now see. 



The Spey cast is chiefly remarkable for two distinct facts: (l) 

 That in transit, the line pays a brief visit to the water ; (2) That the 

 cast is entertaining to some, exasperating to others, yet the idol of all. 



Most of us know, that it is no small matter to be a great and 

 skilled performer of the " Spey," for in accordance with the stern 

 decree of Fate and Circumstance, the cast is liable to become 



