PIKES. 
221 
are seen on particular scales : the edges of these 
undulations actually overlap each other, a curious 
peculiarity of structure. The scales of the lateral 
line are not furnished with tubes as usual, but 
: are simply cut with a deep narrow incision, through 
i which an outlet is afforded to the mucus, with 
SCALES OP PIKE. 
which the body of this fish is so profusely lubri- 
cated. The above engraving represents scales 
from different parts of the body: a, is from the 
back, and has but two undulations ; b, is from the 
lateral line, and has three ; c, is from the belly, 
and has four. 
The portrait of the Pike is drawn in the fol- 
lowing lively, but not very flattering colours, by 
^ Ephemera,’ — He is a greedy, unsociable, tyran- 
nizing savage, and is hated like a Bluebeard. 
Everybody girds at him with spear, ^ gaff, hook, 
net, snare, and even with powder and shot. He 
has not a friend in the world. The horrible gorge- 
hook is specially invented for the torment of his 
maw. Notwithstanding, he fights his way vigor- 
ously, grows into immense strength, despite his 
