The Angler. 355 



its nose within the compass of the expanded jaws ; which then 

 closed upon it and held it fast, until after a considerable time, 

 the captive was discovered by people that were passing by. Mr. 

 Thompson of Belfast records an instance where a gentleman dis- 

 covered an angler near the shore, and presented the butt- end of 

 his whip to it, when it seized and held by it until it was thus 

 drawn on shore. An angler of large size was also discovered in 

 shallow water, by a couple of boys who were in a boat, where 

 they happened to be without oars. But with the intention, per- 

 haps, of annoying the fish, they loosened a board that lay along 

 the bottom of the boat and thrust it within the creature's ex- 

 panded jaws, which immediately closed upon it. A struggle 

 then commenced; but so firmly did the fish retain its grasp, 

 that it suffered itself to be dragged out of the water and 

 secured. 



It is by this, as in the corresponding instance of the apparently 

 sluggish lumpfish, that what seems at first sight a defect is fully 

 balanced by a skilful adaptation of instinct and inward organi- 

 zation, so as to answer to that definite end which comprises 

 the comfort and safety of the creature itself. It was further 

 the instinctive habits displayed by the angler, that especially 

 drew the attentions of ancient philosophic observers; and, 

 accordingly, we find them particularly described in the poet 

 Oppian's verses ; although, indeed, they are there accompanied 

 with the addition of some particulars which tend to raise a 

 doubt whether this usually accurate writer had closely studied 

 the fish itself. He represents that — 



" Within her jaws the fleshy fibre lies, 

 Whose whiteness, grateful scent, and worm-like size, 

 Attract the shoals and charm their longing eyes. 

 But as they near approach with subtle art, 

 The wily toad contracts the inviting part." 



A more accurate description of the organ and its use is given 

 by ^EHan, b. 9, c. 24, where he says the fishing frog derives 

 its name from the manner in which it employs itself. In front 

 of its eyes there are placed some long processes, to the end of 

 which are affixed enticing baits for the purpose of enabling it to 

 ensnare little fishes. This toadfish is aware of the use it may make 

 of these organs to obtain food, and for concealment hides itself 

 in some muddy place, where it keeps its body unmoved while it 

 lifts up and stretches out its line and bait. Little fishes that 

 are wandering about are soon attracted, and begin to nibble, 

 which the angler is quick to perceive, and then it proceeds to 

 move its line in a cautious manner, so as to lead the prey, with- 

 out alarming them, in the gulf of its jaws, which then close 

 upon them beyond the power of escape. 



The generally abrupt depth of water in our seas is a hin- 



