XIX 



THE SEA FISH OF CALIFORNIA 



XIPIAS GLADIUS is a class alone 

 And the only swordfish that is known, 

 Yet 'tis Avalon's most dear wish 

 To confound him with the Spearfish. 

 It seems an insult to the Creator 

 As well as to the nomenclator. 



His snout is flat just like a sword, 

 His dorsal fin stiff as a board; 

 Strong pectoral fins give him the power 

 To fight the fisherman hour by hour; 

 Though gaffed he is not yours as hoped 

 Until his tail is safely roped. 



The Spearfish, gamest of the game, 

 Has also Marlin for a name, 

 His snout is round just like a spike, 

 His stripes are purple, all alike; 

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