Concluding Eemaeks. 437 



but the best, perhaps, is a saturated solution of shellac in 

 alcohol ; it should be put on quite thin and evenly, and one 

 or two coats applied as may be needed, using a soft rag or 

 sponge; it soon dries and is perfectly waterproof. In 

 Izaak Walton's day rods were painted, and he gives minute 

 directions for preparing the sizing, the paint, and the man- 

 ner of applying them. Wood, to preserve its elasticity, 

 must be protected from the changes of the atmosphere. 



Care of the Ebel. 



A fine reel should receive as much care as a watch, so 

 far as this can be done, consistently, with its use. It should 

 never be laid on the sand or bare ground, or exposed in 

 any way to favor the introduction of sand or grit into the 

 working parts. When not in use it should be kept in a 

 box, or in a buckskin or chamois bag. At the beginning 

 and end of each season it should be carefully taken apart, 

 cleaned and oiled. After use, it should be always wiped 

 clean, and rubbed with an oiled rag or chamois skin. 



A first-class reel will last an angler his life-time, with 

 proper care. Especially is a multiplying reel to be well 

 cared for, as it is more complicated, and has more gearing 

 than a click reel. The screw that holds the movable handle 

 to the crank should be frequently noticed, to see that it is 

 firmly screwed in, otherwise it may come out in casting, 

 and both screw and handle be lost. On this account, this 

 screw should never be oiled. The drag, alarm, click, ,or 

 by whatever name the " brake " of a multiplying reel may 

 be known, should be used only when really necessary, and 

 as seldom as possible, for its frequent use wears out the 

 gearing of the reel. 



See that the reel fits your rod perfectly and tightly, so 

 there will be no shaking, wabbling or coming loose during 



