PIT.OT FISH. 
109 
The supposed dislike of the Pilot Fish to a near approach 
to land is the only circumstance in this description that is 
doubtful; but if true in any degree, it is more probably to be 
ascribed to the greater dilution of the salt water at a harbour 
situated near the mouth of a river, of which it would be quickly 
sensible. 
But that it will hold fellowship with a vessel for large distances 
IS beyond doubt; and it is to this circumstance we owe it that 
the Pilot Fish has, not unfrequently, been a visitor to the British 
shores. The first mention of this was in the Linnaean Transac- 
tions, vol. xiv.; where two examples are reported as having 
accompanied a ship from the Mediterranean into Falmouth. 
They have even done so the full distance from Alexandria, in 
Egypt, and some have remained to be taken in the quarantine 
pond of that port. One at least has been taken with a line; 
but such numbers have come under observation, that it becomes 
unnecessary to specify particular instances. It appears however 
that they do not often accompany a ship to the shallower or colder 
water of the British Channel; and only a single one has been 
found east of Plymouth. In 1818, we are informed that a 
Pilot Fish was caught in the harbour of Dartmouth. 
It appears probable that when its friendly association with 
the ship is broken this fish hastens back to its more congenial 
climate; and in only one instance have I learnt that it has been 
found when alone, and at a considerable distance from any 
floating friend, or harbour. It seemed then to be bewildered, 
ran itself close to the shore, and without much effort to escape 
was taken with the hand. This was the largest example I have 
had an opportunity of examining, and has afforded the figure 
and description we shall give of this fish. 
But remarkable as is this apparently friendly companionship 
between the Pilot Fish and his ship, there is another association 
which appears still more remarkable; but whether it be the 
same spoken of by ancient authors, will be regarded as uncertain. 
I he most particular account we have of it is by Oppian, b. 5, 
who represents it as a property of a fish which he calls Hegetera, 
and which Allian, b. ii, c. 13, call Hegemenous, to accompany 
the more stupid whale as its guide, to point out the presence 
of danger, and lead it to safety and its food. Pliny also men- 
tions this fish under the Latin name of Musciilus; but the 
