188 THE ENGLISH SPARROW IN AMERICA. 



ing rolled up on top), and a small hatchet, a sickle, and a camp stool, 

 complete the outfit. 



HOW TO SET THE NETS. 



Having described each part separately, we will now consider how to 

 put them together. Taking for granted that the place which we have 

 selected to put the nets down on is perfectly level and clean, and that the 

 end of the pull line will reach a fence or other slight cover, the pack is 

 placed upon the ground in the middle of the place where the nets are 

 to be set, and the nets are laid in a line on each side of it. We now 

 take two staffs and, lapping them about 9 inches, lay them on the 

 ground at ends of top lines of nets, nearest where weintend to stand 

 Taking the hatchet we drive two heel-pins in at the extremes of the 

 staffs, when the distance between the two pins will be the length of 

 both staffs, less the 9 inches we lapped them. Having taken each top 

 line and allowed about a foot of slack by means of clamps, and placed 

 them over heel pins, taking also an extra tarn, we go to the other end 

 and taking with us two more heel-pins repeat what we have just done, 

 taking care that the lines are stretched perfectly straight and tight, 

 and that these pins, upon which so much strain comes, are secure. The 

 top lines of nets how form two straight, parallel lines, and care should 

 be taken not to move them in any way until after the cheeks are driven 

 in. These should now be driven in at the points along top line where 

 the eyes appear at ends of nets, inclining slightly outvard so that the 

 wire will project on outside of line sufficiently to cause the net when 

 stretched on staff and held perpendicularly to have a tendency to fall 

 inwards. We now pass the socket of staffs over wires in the cheeks, 

 and let out sufficient of the slack of top lines to permit of their being 

 stretched over and attached to button on top of staffs. This being done 



Fig. viii. 



we proceed to stake down the bottom edges of nets — first the four 

 corners, and then the hollow places between them. The bobbers and 

 fly-sticks come next, and if five are used they should be placed as shown 



