88 



than they came out. They are about to return our com- 

 pliment, see ! they are picking up stones — they alter their 

 plan, into the canoe they gb ; and make a dash across the 

 stream to where we are standing. Come, they have a 

 little pluck, they are going to show fight, 'tis fishing rods 

 versus pole and spear, — a fight by torch light, 'tis a pity 

 there are no spectators ; they touch the shoie and advance 

 towards us, we are too polite to allow them to come the 

 whole way, having chosen each his man, we advance to re- 

 ceive them. Woe be to you, Master Luke, if you get a crack 

 on the crown from my friend Capt. Reeve's Salmon rod, 

 you will spear no more fish, I'll warrant you. They 

 come thundering on with spear pointed, and when within 

 a few feet from us — stop, and begin chattering like magpies. 

 What did you throw stones at us for ? demands Master 

 Lukci You rascals ! how dare you fish with the spear, is 

 our answer. You were told it was illegal, and if you dare 

 attempt to fish so, we will pelt you right and left ; and 

 morever, we will fine you ten dollars to-morrow, as sure 

 as you live. They find they have the wrong persons to 

 deal witbj and become more submissive ; they admit the 

 great evil of spearing, and promise never to fish with it 

 again. We, on our part, promise to take no farther action 

 in the matter, and part better satisfied with each other. 



" Luke ! Luke ! you broke your word, you speared the 

 fish that smashed my line, it was seen in your possession 

 a few days after. Verily, you had your reward ! — Ten 

 dollars fine and costs ; your salmon cost you pretty dear, 

 Master Luke.'' 



A vile practice, is also carried on, in this and the lower 

 districts of the Saguenay,that is, netting the lakes for Trout. 



