234 THE SNIPE. 
large numbers of snipe were brought to market, and 
appeared at table, in Shakespeare’s time, is clear from the 
numerous entries in the old ‘“ Household Book,” where 
their value is stated to have been “ after iii a jd.” There 
can be little doubt, however, that these were not “shot 
birds,” but were taken in snares and nets, as our modern 
fowlers take plovers and other fen birds. 
