FISHES. 5S 



something the shape of each, be placed under them, only ex- 

 tending a little beyond them. Coat the paper with a weak 

 solution of gum-arabic, and put a piece of similar size en 

 the top of the tin ; by pressing these gently they will adhere 

 and dry in a few minntes ; these will keep the fins extended, 

 and preserve them daring the operation of stuffing. When these 

 are dry, take a piece of tissue paper or thin siik, and press it 

 gently on one side of the fish. The natural glutinous matter which 



Fig. 23. 



The Perch, showing the manner in which the paper is attached 

 for the purpose of extending the fins. 



covers the scales will be sufficient to make it adhere firmly; it will 

 soon dry and form a strong protection to the scales during the 

 skinning. Without this precaution the skin could not be removed 

 from mullet, sea beaver, &c. , without the scales being much dis- 

 figured, and losing many of them. Indeed, in such fishes, it is 

 not amiss to put on an additional coating of paper with gum-water. 

 This will not only secure the scales, but will also assist in keeping 

 the proper form of the fish, by preventing distention. 



When these papers are thoroughly dry, turn the fish on a soft 

 cloth, with the uncovered side upwards, and open it with sharp 

 scissors from the bottom of the tail-fin to nearly the point of the 

 snout, keeping as correctly on the lateral line as possible, which 

 can be seen in most fishes. The cheek should be afterwards cut 

 open, so that the flesh may be removed from it; cut also the flesh 

 from the opposite cheek, and supply its place by cotton. The 

 skin must now be detached from the flesh, which will require 



