FISHES. 379 
Flounder consists in the former having a row of six 
tubercles behind the left eye, of which this fish is entirely 
destitute ; it is also a little longer in the body, and, when 
full grown, somewhat thicker. The back is of a dark 
olive colour, spotted ; and some Flounders have round 
reddish spots on the backs and fins. In taste they are 
reckoned more delicate than the plaice. They live long 
after being taken out of their element, and are often 
cried in the streets of London in the morning; but they 
seldom appear on the tables of the rich and dainty. 
They are common in the British seas, and in all large 
rivers which obey the impression of the tide, and they 
feed upon decayed carcases at the bottom of the water. 
THE SOLE (Pleuronectes solea,) 
Is well known as a very excellent fish, whose flesh is 
firm, delicate, and of a pleasing flavour. Soles grow to 
the length of eighteen inches, and even more in some of 
our seas. They are often found of this size and supe- 
riority in Torbay, whence they are sent to market at 
Exeter, and several other towns in Devonshire and the 
adjacent counties. They are found also in the Mediter- 
ranean and several other seas ; and, when in season, are in 
great requisition for the most luxurious tables. The 
upper part of the body is brown ; the under part white ; 
one of the pectoral fins is tipped with black ; the sides 
are yellow, and the tail rounded at its extremity. It is 
said that the small Soles, caught in the northern seas, are 
