Northern memoirs, calculated for the meridian of Scotland wherein most or all of the cities, citadels, seaports, castles, forts, fortresses, rivers and rivulets are compendiously described : together with choice collections of various discoveries, remarkable observations, theological notions ... : to which is added the contemplative & practical angler ... / writ in the year 1658, but not till now made publick, by Richard Franck ... Franck, Richard, 1624?-1708. 1694 Approx. 559 KB of XML-encoded text transcribed from 174 1-bit group-IV TIFF page images. Text Creation Partnership, Ann Arbor, MI ; Oxford (UK) : 2003-09 (EEBO-TCP Phase 1). A40385 Wing F2064 ESTC R20592 12117409 ocm 12117409 54355 This keyboarded and encoded edition of the work described above is co-owned by the institutions providing financial support to the Early English Books Online Text Creation Partnership. This Phase I text is available for reuse, according to the terms of Creative Commons 0 1.0 Universal . The text can be copied, modified, distributed and performed, even for commercial purposes, all without asking permission. Early English books online. (EEBO-TCP ; phase 1, no. A40385) Transcribed from: (Early English Books Online ; image set 54355) Images scanned from microfilm: (Early English books, 1641-1700 ; 68:13) Northern memoirs, calculated for the meridian of Scotland wherein most or all of the cities, citadels, seaports, castles, forts, fortresses, rivers and rivulets are compendiously described : together with choice collections of various discoveries, remarkable observations, theological notions ... : to which is added the contemplative & practical angler ... / writ in the year 1658, but not till now made publick, by Richard Franck ... Franck, Richard, 1624?-1708. xxxix, 304 p. Printed for the author, to be sold by Henry Mortclock ..., London : 1694. Advertisement on p. 304. Reproduction of original in Library of Congress. 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Scotland -- Description and travel. 2003-05 TCP Assigned for keying and markup 2003-05 Aptara Keyed and coded from ProQuest page images 2003-07 Mona Logarbo Sampled and proofread 2003-07 Mona Logarbo Text and markup reviewed and edited 2003-08 pfs Batch review (QC) and XML conversion Northern Memoirs , Calculated for the Meridian of SCOTLAND . Wherein most or all of the Cities , Citadels , Sea-ports , Castles , Forts , Fortresses , Rivers and Rivulets are compendiously described . Together with choice Collections of Various Discoveries , Remarkable Observations , Theological Notions , Political Axioms , National Intrigues , Polemick Inferences , Contemplations , Speculations , and several curious and industrious Inspections , lineally drawn from Antiquaries , and other noted and intelligible Persons of Honour and Eminency . To which is added , The Contemplative & Practical Angler , by way of Diversion . With a Narrative of that dextrous and mysterious Art experimented in England , and perfected in more remote and solitary Parts of Scotland . By way of Dialogue . Writ in the Year 1658 , but not till now made publick , By Richard Franck , Philanthropus . Plures necat Gula quam Gladius LONDON , Printed for the Author . To be sold by Henry Mortclock at the Phenix , in St. Paul's Church-yard . 1694. To my worthy and honoured Friend Mr. J. W. Merchant in London . SIR , AS this compendious Volume of my Northern Memoirs contains nothing of Obscenity whereat I may Blush , so I hope no Absurdity worthy your reprehension : Yet because modelized in the plain Methods of an English Dress , will perhaps occasion the Sciolist to interpret me but a Junior Academian ; And truly so he may , if when to consider my slender Education . However , I have endeavoured , as much as in me lies , to avoid all Prolixity , and long Parentheses , which possibly would relish unpleasant in your Ear ; so have I abhorred repeated Tautologies , lest fearing to nauseate and surfeit your Appetite . For that end , Sir , I 'll be brief in my Description of Scotland , and as concise as possible , in my Contemplative Angler ; so sum up both as compendiously as I can . In Cambridg , it 's true , I had my Education , but Travel having the Ascendent over me , I afterwards rambled the remote Northern Tracts of Scotland ; where , to admiration , I inspected that little Artick World , and every Angle of it . It 's true , Travel always affected me , and to travel by Books , when nothing else presented to transport me , was a solitary kind of Satisfaction , but no Fruition . I must confess 't was in an ill Juncture of Time , when the Nation was alarm'd by the fatal approach of an Intestine War ( that perplex'd my anxious Thoughts with various Inquietudes ) because then to see a preternatural Cloud arise , that neither Men nor Counsels were prophetick enough to consult , whereby to stop the Deluge of this hostile Inundation that threatned to involve the Kingdom in Blood. In this Dilemma I left the University to seek Umbrage in the City of London ; but my Retirements contributed equal trouble , for now a Smoak began to rise in every Corner , and like a Meteor , it blaz'd out at last into fuliginous Flames , that overspread the beautiful Prospect of Peace ; which not only distracted the Minds but the Manners of Men , because then to behold a Storm rise out of a Calm , that not only threatned Prerogative and Privilege , but a National Exit , unhappily calculated to compel the People to see their own Ruins wrapt up in the Destiny of War. Where some , because never enough satisfied by being well , endeavoured by inadvertency to make themselves worse , and striking their Breasts with their own Weapons , forced all the Kingdom to bleed at last . So that now every Man runs to seek a Pleget to stanch , if possible , the reeking Wound ; yet no Man so propitious to find his own Cure , by which he fancied all the rest incurable . That now so generally and epidemically the Kingdom was diseased , that deliriated and distracted , they let one another Blood. Nor stop'd it here neither , for the cultivated Fields stained all over with English Blood ( beyond all precedent ) bled , till the Life of that Non-such Charles expired . But now since England is so happily blest under the prudent Conduct of a valorous Prince ( whose Heroick Vertues like a Corona surround him ) presents me an opportunity to step into Scotland , to examine there her remoter Stars , fed by the vital Flames of our Southern Orb ; supposing it no Riddle , to fancy any Man ridiculous that holds up a Taper to illuminate the Sun : for if when to consider , that the beautiful Cynthia sheds her Nocturnal Beam abroad , only to sprinkle the Universe with cold Influences , from thence we conclude that the Major Luminary ( viz. the Sun ) adds to her Obscurity his bright Reflections , since she of her self is but a borrowed Light , that can neither warm the World , nor cherish it with Vegetation . But the Light of the Sun not only invigorates the Creation with Light and Warmth , but is also a creational Good in the Ends of Production . Come then , whilst it is Day , let us step into Scotland , to rummage and rifle her Rivers and Rivulets , and examine her flourishing Streams for entertainment ; there the Rocks and the Groves will be our solent Reception , and the Cities and Citadels supply us with Accommodation ; and there I fancy our Time will be well enough spent to view the Country , and give a Description of all her Curiosities : which I here present you , my worthy Patron , in this short Narrative , not doubting your Clemency to absolve my stripling Muse , though not Fleg enough to elevate it self to the lowest Elevations of your generous Acceptation . But I 'll do what I can in these Northern Tracts , to bring you a Discovery of some of her Rarities , whose solitary Shades strike a Damp to my Pen , because to behold there such unexpected Landskips , Meanders and Labyrinths ( which I frequently met with ) as exposed my Resolution to a farther Progress , whereby to discover all her Northern Gaities that shin'd so splendidly in every Fir-wood , as also in her lofty domineering Hills , that over-top'd the Submissive shady Dales , and over-look'd the rapid Torrents of Rivers , and pretty purling gliding Rivulets ; where the polish'd Rocks , and imbellish'd Fortifications , beyond belief , so surpriz'd my Genius , that it puzzles me to report these remote Curiosities . For you are to consider , Sir , that the whole Tract of Scotland is but one single Series of admirable Delights , notwithstanding the prejudicate Reports of some Men that represent it otherwise . For if Eye-sight be Argument convincing enough to confirm a Truth , it enervates my Pen to describe Scotland's Curiosities , which properly ought to fall under a more elegant Stile to range them in order for a better Discovery . For Scotland is not Europe's Vmbra , as fictitiously imagined by some extravagant Wits : No , it 's rather a legible fair Draught of the beautiful Creation , drest up with polish'd Rocks , pleasant Savanas , flourishing Dales , deep and torpid Lakes , with shady Fir-Woods , immerg'd with Rivers and gliding Rivulets ; where every Fountain o'reflows a Valley , and every Ford superabounds with Fish. Where also the swelling Mountains are covered with Sheep , and the marish Grounds strewed with Cattle ; whilst every Field is fill'd with Corn , and every Swamp swarms with Fowl. This , in my Opinion , proclaims a Plenty , and presents Scotland , a Kingdom of Prodigies and Products too , to allure Foreigners , and entertain Travellers . So that now Scotland represents a Star that reflects a Beam on our Southern Orb ; but England is the Magnet that attracts this Northern Chalybs by sweet Influences , ( and mild Condescensions ) whereby the Fruits of Peace and Tranquillity protrude , and bud up to unite Interests in one another . The Orbs were made for the Erratick Stars ; and every Star as a lesser Orb ( destinated for Light and Discovery ) renders the Creation beautiful to excess , by Divine Appointment of the Divinest . For the Sun we see is not impaired , because to lend us a Ray of Light ; nor does it lessen Superiours ( in any Degree ) to communicate their Virtues to influence Inferiours . Do Stars run retrograde to make Subjects Slaves , when the whole Creation is but under subjection by divine Condescension of the great Creator ? Nor is there any thing of Slavery ( save only Servility ) except Man who enslaves himself to his Lust ; or by Tyranny imposed upon his Fellow-Creature . And now , Sir , I have done , in doing my Duty , not only to my Country , but singly to your Self : give me leave therefore to wind up my Epistle , and solicit Pardon if any thing be amiss ; supposing my Language runs harsh and rugged ; but that I cannot help , because drawn from the rough Draught of a Martial Pen , which shews my Stile may be somewhat unpolished . Nor can I flatter the Times , for I never was a Parasite nor a Time-server ; so that Errors excepted , I may hope a Pardon and an easy Penance from so mild , so moderate and judicious a Patron , under whose Patronage I lodg my Sentiments ; and subscribe my self , Worthy Sir , yours to serve you , Philanthropus . A Dedication to the Virtuoso's of the Rod in Great-Britain's Metropolis , the famous City of London . GENTLEMEN , I Was somewhat unwilling my Angler should pass the Press , till sedulously examined by some of your Ingenious Society ; and the rather , because it 's eminently known , that many amongst you are experienced Proficients , in the Mystical Art and Intrigues of Angling : whose Approbation will indisputably accommodate my Design , provided it come time enough , before my Angler encounter the Press . However if it come short , I shall satisfy my self ( as if already confirmed ) that you 'l please to embarque in these my solitary Examinations of those Rivers and Rivulets in England and Scotland , where the Fields in Winter are paved with Frost ; yet are the Meadows in Summer-time beautified with Greens , and deck'd and adorn'd with redolent Sweets , that perfume the Air , whose delightful Fords are furnished with Trout ; and to advance Recreation , the generous Race of Salmon : an entertainment perhaps not every where understood , nor is it by every Angler ( I perswade my self ) throughly examined . But , Gentlemen , I have brought you somewhat else ; which for ought I know may prove a friendly Diversion , if you please to inspect this Narrative and Survey of Scotland , where perhaps you 'l meet with such Entertainment , as may not only benefit , but in some measure delight you , after your Exercise of fishing for Trout . What then if you step from the Water-side , and contemplate Nature ; so raising your Scenes , you 'l admire the Creator , in his rare and admirable Creational Work ; there you may see the Operation of Elements and stellate Influences ; there also you may see the curious and various Amalgamations of Earth into Cristaline Forms , and Opacous Bodies ; and there you may see how the Luminaries are adapted Parents of polite Stones , Metals and Minerals : How Vegetables also protrude and bud up , because impregnated with prolifick Vegetation ; and how the Principles naturally operate in Animals , inspired and animated by the Soul of the World. We have also considered some Moral Duties , in reference to Men of sober Conversation : Nor are we altogether barren of Solitudes , and Divine Contemplation . The Stars we consider as fiery Objects , and he that made them thus gloriously to shine , made them also to influence and impregnate the Universe : for God through Wisdom hung up aloft these bright , shining and globical Bodies , whereby to illuminate this stupendous Creation ; and that by reason of their Rapidity and circular Rotation , they impregnate the Earth with prolifick Virtue : and as we see the Stars surround the Earth , the Orbs beyond dispute immure the Stars ; but the Heavens encircling both the Orbs and Elements , plainly demonstrate that from the Divinest , every created Individual has both Ends and Means naturally and specifically appropriated to it self , whereby to make it visible ; and Visibility terminates in Time. Which Notion to explain in a philosophical Sense , seems to imply , that both Matter and Form results in their own proper and natural beginning . Know therefore that Corruption is the Child of Putrefaction , and Putrefaction is the Prison and Sepulchre of Death ; Death therefore precedes the Resurrection , and the Resurrection is the Clavis that opens Eternity . But , Gentlemen , pray excuse me if I wander too far from the Water-side , to gaze and admire these glorious Metaphors , the Divine Oracles of him that made them , so not only lose my Opportunity of Angling , but endanger to lose my self in these solitary Meanders ; rarely frequented and trod by the Vulgar . Give me leave therefore to retrieve my self , and introduct you into the slender Margin of this my uncultivated Book ; and examine the Volume , if provided any thing may be found there worthy your ingenious Entertainment , or the general acceptation of so splendid a Society , that gives Laws and Rules to all the Anglers in England ; that accommodates every County with Rods for Diversion , and inriches every River with Hooks and Lines , that circumspectly prescribes Critical Hours for Recreation , and consults both the Mean and Elevation of Angling , whereby to augment and quicken the Spur of Pleasure . But I 'm sorry I can raise my Scenes no higher , to elevate this admirable Piscatorian Science , beyond the Elizium of the Angler's Arcadia . For had I that preeminence of Pen and Fancy , to illustrate what the Art of it self deservedly requires , I should impoverish England , nay it may be all Europe , if not all the World , to select Expressions , to express and decipher it's deserved Encomium . But finding my self unable to accomplish this great Undertaking , I 'll silently sit down satisfied , under the Rhapsodies of Contemplation ; inviting my Associates so to do , when encountring the Rocks and Rivers for Recreation . Now , Gentlemen , since Magnetism is so little known among Artists , I less blame the indigency of those that know not how Nature by innare Quality attracts her own Likeness , than other inconsiderate Rationals , that sport away their time in pursuit of their Lusts. Let the Angler therefore ( if he please ) select Contemplation , and pity such others that are destitute of those heavenly Advantages , till the Strokes of Grace and a pious Example or Education , compel them to write Memorandums of the glorious Creation , in the fair and legible Copy-Book of Wisdom ; so imitate Nature in her daily Progress , till ariving at the Super-excellency of practical Christianity , which truly to know , is Wisdom in the Abstract , that transmutes our Nature into Grace , and our Humanity into Divinity . But this you 'l alledg is heavenly Transmutation ; and so it is beyond the Mediums and Discovery of Art , or the Indication of Nature ( improper therefore to introduce Undergraduats ) : It's true , it is so ; but what then ? can't they omit the thoughts of Elements , to mingle sometimes their Contemplations with things more sublime ? Can't they relinquish their Exercise , to converse with heavenly Objects ? This I advise to , and my Book will instruct them . Now I have given you a Plat-form for Contemplation , which opens the Windows of the Mind to inspectulate ( if possible ) invisible Objects ; but not to darken your sight by gazing too much at the Sun ; for the more amiable and illustrious any thing is , the more astonishing is that thing , and ought therefore to be the more admired , consequently desired , before the Methods of Industry , or the lineal Progress of Art. But in as much as Angling is a great part of our Business , let me admonish the more Ingenious Artist to be mindful of Experience , lest peradventure he slide into the slippery Tract of an Author , so unman himself of practical Demonstration . Against which Hypothesis I exhort the Angler , whilst capable to trace the silver Sands , or florid Meadows of Thames and Trent , to consort with Ingenuity amongst Rocks and Meanders , where probably he may meet with his Friend , Philanthropus . A Dedication to the Academicks in Cambridg , the Place of my Nativity . GENTLEMEN , I Present you with a fair Opportunity to travel Scotland , and stay at Home : but then you 'l lose the benefit of tracing those Northern Tracts , where you may pick up admirable Curiosities in every Angle , because naturally replenished with great Variety . But not that I commend the Country to flatter her Inhabitants , nor intend I to exceed in my Method and Stile , when only to describe her Cities and Citadels , Towns and Castles , &c. For that End expect an impartial Account from a Candid and ( I would , if permitted , say ) a Regular Pen , that neither profits nor loses by imbellishing or demolishing either her Towns , Cities , Forts or Fortifications . But the longer I comment upon this Northern Subject , the more Arguments I bring to convince the Incredulous , that Scotland's national Stores , and commodious maritime Ports , will treat you with good Accommodation and civil Entertainment . Nor do I seem to contradict my self , when modestly concluding every impartial Examinant under the Perswasion of my Opinion : nor doubt I to convince him , that shall hereafter trace her delightful Shores , and observe the various and distinct Classes of her numberless Numbers of Fish and Fowl , her lofty and domineering Mountains , and mountainous Ascents burdned with Firs , her pleasant and fertil Fields fill'd with Corn , and her Meadows and Pastures crowded with Herds of Cattle , but that he will conclude with me , that her Cities and Sea-ports flourish under the Conduct of Trade and Navigation . And where the gilded Highlands are the Lowlanders Prospect , and the Skirts of the Hills sanctuary to the bordering Planes , shading her Plants from the fiery Strokes of the Sun in Summer , that defends them against impetuous and immoderate Cold in Winter , incident there to in regard so situated , that it lies North Latitude near fifty nine Degrees , though reaching the Cusp of our Southern Situations . Formerly , I confess , I flattered my self with Scotland's Intemperance ; but my Opinion is otherwise now , because having sufficiently examined to the contrary , and adjudg it an Error in any Man to denounce Sentence before Examination . Are the Artick and Antartick Poles at variance , because of Distance and seemingly contrary Actings ? or stand they in opposition one to another , because Aristotle's Philosophy could not reconcile them ? Must it therefore follow that there 's no Correspondency , no Congruity nor Harmony betwixt them ? when it 's evident they are exerted by the Universal Spirit of Nature , whereby they act and react upon one another : else would the Tides of themselves stand still , and because wanting Motion , the Ocean would stagnate , and at last result in Putrefaction ; so by consequence invite a new Creation . Let Scotland therefore be England's Chalybs , and let England be unto Scotland a Magnet to attract , contemporate , and mingle those Northern Severities , by Southern softned Reflections of moderate Heat ; lest peradventure the Rose withers , and the Thistle meet with the fatal Stroak of the Syeth . Nature is but one in all her Operations . So let these two famous and flourishing Kingdoms survive their Enemies , whilst I strip off some of Scotland's sweetest Flowers , to present them to Cambridg , the place of my Nativity , with this legitimate fair One ; intending her an Academian there , because I fancy in Time she may grow a Proficient , when at present to appear so amiable in Rags ; and probably deserves better Ornaments than my slender Education is capable to give her , whereby to manuduct her to point the Ground , till she her self treads the Stage of the World , as her Heroick Ancestors have done before her . In the mean time , let me flatter my self , that no Gentleman will be so ingenteel to censure my Survey , because not lineally Artificial . I grant my Methods might have been reformed by riper Judgments , and my Discourse placed in better Order , which possibly merits a Reproof : but I have this for Answer , that I 'm but a young Practitioner in the Press ; and because finding my self obliged to conduct and pilot a Northern Princess ashore , I laboured all I could to bring her to the Borders , expecting some others in readiness there to give her Entertainment . But I found my self defeated , and this beautiful fair One neglected , notwithstanding all the Shores were crowded with Spectators , that viewed and reviewed her modest Approaches , yet none had the Manners to bid her Welcome . However , since she is come , I 'll present her to the Angler that treads the shady Tracts and beautiful Shores of Cam : together with the rest of the Fraternity of the Rod , that ramble the Margin of famous Thames , Trent , Severn , Owse , Tweed , Tine , Eden , Ask , Dove , Darwin , Tees , Yor , Air , Need , &c. Now since no Art more than Angling elevates and advances the generous Mind of the Contemplative Angler , let me invite and encourage him to patrole the solitary Streams of Trent , if he purpose to undergo the Toil of the Art , before he publish himself an Artist : for the Practicks of Angling won't appear legible , whilst the Theory remains paradoxically unintelligible , ( here 's a Cypher prick'd down instead of a Figure ) so that should I emblazon or intitle my self an Artist , or a Proficient of the Rod , how can I avoid running the Risque of being reputed Ostentatious ? On the other Hand , to remain silent after the Periods of Forty Years Exercise , every Angler will censure me ignorant , and my Silence interpret me wilfully obstinate . Thus I steer betwixt Sylla and Charybdis . But as I cannot impede or hinder the Thoughts or Suggestions of any Man , so by the Law of Retaliation , no Man ought to hinder or misinterpret my modest Resolutions , when but to challenge the Degree of an Undergraduate in the Art. Nor have I confidence to raise my Ambitions higher ; than to superscribe my self an Admirer of the Rod , and a Lover of silent and solitary Streams . Let my Writings therefore remonstrate my Experiments , and my Experiments manifest my Zeal for Solitudes , and my natural affection to the Place of my Nativity , which can never be wanting whilst I 'm in a capacity to speak or write my Name , Philanthropus . A Dedication to the Gentlemen Piscatorians Inhabiting in or near the sweet Situations of Nottingham , North of Trent . GENTELMEN , IF to violate Faith ( though but with Infidels ) we forfeit not only our Reason , but Religion ; so not to dedicate some part of my Experiments to your Ingenious Society , might justly prohibit me the freedom of tracing your flourishing Fields and fragrant Meadows , inamel'd with Flowers , that perfume the beautiful Suburbs of Trent ; upon whose delightful Banks I formerly used to spend some solitary Hours , in pursuit of the scaly Fry , and where the Plenty and sweet Situations invited me not only to contemplate , but improve this mystical Art of Angling : though it 's true , the Rudiments ( in the minority of Youth ) were laid in Cam ; yet Silver Trent's orient Streams graduated my juniour Experiments , by unfolding her Meanders , and making obvious the Intrigues of her rapid Fords , replenished with variety ; nay so great variety of Fish , that only to express it would almost bring Truth into Suspicion ; when from the more profound and solitary Deeps , the Artist ( if expert ) may summons up Lucit , and the generous Race of Salmon . But , Gentlemen , I am not Angling now , I 'm only telling you those original Motives to this solitary ( and Piscatorian ) Science , that grew up with me when an Adult ; for then I courted the shady Streams of Cam ; but Trent ( as I told you above ) gave me Education . To Trent therefore ( and the Place of my Nativity ) I direct my Influences , let Malice do its worst ; nor are they extravagant Notions , nor broken Fragments , collected from Foreign nor Domestick Authority , but lineal and practical Experiments and Demonstrations , drawn up and cultivated by the Mediums of Art , and the exact Methods of Observation ; which without vanity , I dedicate to your Society inhabiting the flourishing Ports of Nottingham ; which I doubt not you 'l accept of , though not much to inrich you ; however you may taste of those solitary Hours laboriously spent in Great-Britain's Hellespont , ( the famous Trent ) where I used to refresh my self , and ramble up and down her delightful Fords , to gratify and satisfy others as well as my self with the Fruits of Experience . So that should I call Sea and Land Elizium , it 's not altogether improper so to do , since Earth and Water compleat but one Globe . In those florid Fields , near the Fords of Trent , I frequently wandred up and down to crop the Buds of Experience ; yet I plundred no Man's Orchard to enrich my Arbory , nor borrowed I other Mens Labours to adorn my Discoveries : the Bounty of Heaven , that always blest me with benevolent Success , restrained me from rifling the Records of my Ancestors ; when to put a Rod in my Hand , and place a River before me : so that I should offer Violence to Reason and Art , if now to consult the Authority of others , when such a large and legible Folio to write by , as the great and stupendous Volume of the Creation ; which to contemplate , interprets the Divine Practice of Solitudes , and becomes not only contributary to the present , but the future Generations . To study Contemplation is the high way to Heaven , where the Suburbs consist of a Divine Composition , and where you may read by those Oracles the Stars , the beautiful Order of Celestial Bodies , and the great and lesser World all Harmony ; for Heaven and Earth are Correlates , which duly to contemplate , poises our Passion , and baffles our Pride ; which necessarily pursues the Foot-steps of Generation , as naturally as Rust follows Copper , which without dispute is the Death of the Compound ; consequently Tradition , if penitentially admitted , and Ignorance opposed to the Mediums of Art ; there uncultivated Arts present no Dispondencies , nor need a Man solicite Reality in Practicks . But this I oppose , and confidently assert , he that licks up the fabulous Fiction of slippery Authority , to confirm his false and untenable Position , brings unsound Arguments to prop and support the slender Faith his Opinion leans on ; whereby he exposes himself to Clamour and Reproach , and the Censure of every judicious Examinant . Give me leave therefore to remonstrate my Resolution , since the Arguments and Allegations in my Book are my own . Yet had I rob'd Virgil to adorn my Muse , peradventure my Fancy had been more fruitful ; but take it as it is , since so freely dedicated to the Virtuosos of the Rod , from whom in modesty I may reasonably expect some charitable Censures of this my Sober and Contemplative Angler ; advising them to direct to the Gnomen of Practicks , omitting Theory , and the useless Prescriptions of the Antients . Then shall no Man need to grope the Invention of others , but manifest every Truth by plain Demonstration . Thus far I may safely sail under the Angler's Protection : but should I write Marginal Notes , and place them to the Test of unpractical Anglers , beyond dispute I should split on a Rock , and wanting a Pilot to bring me off , I might live without Hope , and die in Despair ; which I resolve against , whilst capable to write my Name , Philanthropus . THE PREFACE . Courteous Reader , LET me manuduct you through the slender Margin of my uncultivated Book , to contemplate the Evangelical Sweets of Reason and Religion , two requisite and necessary Priniciples for a Christian. For since it hath pleased God , through infinite Mercy , to breathe into Man a rational Soul , whereby he was made Lord of all the Creation , to govern and conduct the Creatures committed to his Charge , with respect of Duty to his Sovereign Creator : this capacitates Man to act prudentially ; for imprudent Actions proceed from Rashness , and the inconsiderate poize of Reason . So to be religious , it 's the Christian 's Corona , that enables him to contemplate his present State and future Felicity : Which to accomplish , he must cruciate himself with his Thoughts and his Lusts , and strip himself of all imaginary Vanities , to ruminate how the certain uncertain State of Mortality in a Moment breaks up and terminates in Death . And it 's requisite it be so , since the Body's Solution displays the Soul's glorious Ascension out of this elementary Tabernacle of Earth and Clay ; whereby with more vivacity she may elevate her self on the Wing of Faith , by Divine Attraction , to those glorious and invisible Exaltations : which beatifical Vision , no mortal Tongue can well express , nor can Mortality conceive nor enjoy here , save only by a Divine Faith , and a Holy and Heavenly Speculation . Now , how necessary is the study and practice of Christianity , the true , noble , and the heavenly Birth ! For a Christian is such by Regeneration , and to be regenerate is a Child of God ; and a Child of God is a Saint here . For militant Saints in Grace here , shall be triumphant Saints in Glory hereafter , made beauteously to shine in the New Jerusalem , and wear the Royal Badg of Heaven , and that 's an immortal Angelical Crown ; to which is affix'd the Diadem of the Divinest , in legible and intelligible Characters of the Cross. God in Love with his own Image , beautifies and adorns the Soul with Immortality . It 's true , Heaven knows no Limit nor Dimension ; but Earth has Periods . With what Circumspection therefore ought we to travel through this mortal Pilgrimage , to the sacred Temple of Piety and Devotion , where the blessed Sweets of Eternity , are perpetually tasted by contemplating a Preparation for Death . And what is Death but the Key of Eternity ? These and such like pious Considerations , lift up the standard of the Mind to the Elevations of Contemplation . For if the Progress of Life be but one single Scene of a Tragedy , of necessity the World must be the Theatre , Life the Prologue , Heaven the Design , and Death the Exit . So not only to live , but to live well , imports a well-dying ; and to die to Sin , is to live Eternally . Thus whilst premeditating the Life of Solitudes , give me leave to publish to the World this mystical Art , and the Intrigues of Angling ; and because animated by the Mediums of Experience , I thought it Argument good enough to gratify the Age , and reward the Industirous with Trophies of the Art , which indeed is the ultimate End and Period of Experiment . Now tell me a better Accommodation than what naturally flows from solitary Hours solemnly dedicated to the Divinest ; when to discourse with Birds in shady Bowers , and converse with Fish in Rivers and Rivulets ; to obliterate the World and vain Conversation ; so take our flight as high as Heaven , by Divine Faith and Heavenly Contemplation : such a Life as this explains the Angler not only a Monument of Patience , but Experience : so that Ambition can never be a Bait to ensnare him , that already is delivered from Pride , and the Arrests of Arrogancy . O how sweetly does such a Man's Habitation smell , whose Entertainment and Salutation is the Dialect of Peace , where every Action , if thorowly examined , reads harmonious Lectures of Concord and Content , labouring what in him lies to stand a distance from this ambiguous World , whilst the World pursues her flattering Admirers , and such only as vainly heap up accursed Riches to perplex themselves , and blast Posterity . But I fancy , and it may be but a Fancy , that some prevaricating Zoilist will arraign my Hypothesis , and stigmatize Anglers ( and the Art ) with those black Blemishes of Barbarity and Cruelty , when only design'd to kill a Fish. To which I reply , That the Creatures in the Creation ( by Divine Appointment ) were appropriated for Vse , and what may that Vse be , if not the Refreshment and Nourishment of Mankind ? Adam had a Commission from the King of Heaven , impowering him Lord over all sublunary Creatures . Will any one question this Privilege ? And Peter was commanded to arise , kill and eat ; when doubting with himself the Legality of the thing , who disputes this Commission ? Now for any Man to question these Divine Truths , ( except a Banian ) be questions the Scriptures , the Authority of Truth . The Creatures in the Creation ( we must grant ) were design'd for Nutrition and Sustentation ; yet no Man had a Commission so large to take away Life upon no other account than to gratify his Lust. Then the next Question arising will be , Whether the Rod or the Net is rather to be approved of ? I have only this to answer , ( since both contribute to Health and Maintenance ) the Apostles themselves they used the one , why then may not the Angler plead for the other ? Thus far I enter the Angler's List , and resolve to encounter this critical Age by promulgating the Series of the Art of Angling . But to shape out Rods , twist Lines , and appropriate Times and Seasons , with variety of Waters , and sutability of Baits ; as also the making of Instruments , arming of Hooks , forming the accurate Proportion of Flies , shaping of Corks , staining of Quills , forming of Swivels , and drawing out Wiers , besides casting of Plumbs , and moulding of Shot , I resolve against ; for it 's nothing my Business , though a Task neither intricate nor tedious to the several and various Artificers pregnant in the Art. For that end you may dedicate your Opinion to what scribling Putationer you please ; the Compleat Angler , if you will , who tells you of a tedious Fly Story , extravagantly collected from antiquated Authors , such as Gesner , Dubravius , &c. but I rather commend you to famous Isaac Owldham , whose Experiences sprung from the Academy of Trent : so did that eminent Angler , George Merrils ; and as eminent as he was John Fawlkner , whose known Abilities to cultivate this Science ( both for Directions and Manuels ) I modestly prefer before any other . Yet how frequently is this Art promulged by Mudlers , and under the plausible pretence of Anglers ? when upon examine you 'l find them deficient in Practicks , and indigent in the lineal and plain Tracts of Experience ; yet so fortified with Confidence and Ignorance , enough I declare to make an Artist blush , if only but to hear them assert , that from one River in a Nation , all the rest may be nationally understood : which preposterous impertinent Opinion , if I should not publickly oppose , it would seem to confirm and assign me a Confederate with the Rout and Rabble so ignorantly opinionated . But I shall offer my reason , to avoid the suspicion of an Imposture , lest I be thought to traduce my Proselytes into the extreams of an Error ; otherwise I had shrowded my self under a Taciturnity , had not I dreaded the Censure of other able and practical Anglers , that in reason may expect a replication from me . For that end , I publish this Treatise to the World , where my Arguments are synonymous , connect together like Links in a Chain , in opposition to that inconsiderate Opinion , that by one River all the Rivers in England , &c. may be included for Fish and Diversion . Which is alike probable , that an Orchard without Cultivation , should produce Foreign Fruit : or the Peak in Derbyshire , should assign us Gold instead of Lead , or the Minera of Oar. Now supposing this eminent difficulty resolved , yet some will be solicitous to puzzle themselves about Baits and Seasons ; so that I foresee it will aggravate and fret their intoxicated Patience : Where note , such may search ( as already prenoted ) in the mouldy Records of Androvanus , Dubravius , Gesner , or Isaac Walton , whose Authority to me seems alike authentick , as is the general Opinion of the vulgar prophetick : for neither all nor one of them is an Oracle to me , Experience is my Master , and Angling my Exercise ; yet moderated so , that I don't always employ my self with throwing in , nor haling out , as Pochers do , that covet more than their Panniers contain ; this makes the Sweet of their Labours unprofitable , when the Angler only designs Diversion the final end of his Recreation . However , somewhat of this Nature is expected from me , otherwise the Prejudicate will conclude me ignorant , or affected with paucity : but I shall prevent that Suspicion , by publishing to the World this Treatise of Angling ; wherein the Practicks are manifestly divulged , though the Contemplative be but in part express'd . And what hinders ( I pray you ) to withdraw sometimes from the trembling Streams of Trent , to dedicate your vacant Hours to the Shrines of Solitudes ; to sit upon Rocks , or in shady Groves ; there to contemplate the beautiful Creation , and meditate our present and eternal furture State ; so with a holy and reverentical Fear , call to mind the Creator and Original of all Things ; through whose Wisdom Kings rule , and Princes decree Iustice ? But doubting some may want other moral Inducements , to such I have brought a Glass of Morality , wherein they may view the World's state of Inconstancy ; but to the more religious and contemplative Angler , a Model of Piety , ( Jacob will struggle hard for a Blessing ) where be may see the inamour'd and Seraphick Soul surmount the Aether , whilst Earth-worms like-Otters prey below upon Fish. Now to such as love Travel , I have brought them History , but to such others as love Fish and pleasant Waters , my Treatise : for the studious Geographer , here are Cities and Countries , but for the active Engineer , Castles and Citadels . Should thy Fancy be mean , here are shallow Brooks ; deep Rivers require the skilful Art of Swimming . Thus my Book seems a Mart , where a Man may trade for Trifles , or merchandise for things of greater Value . The World is all Purchase , and Death the Pay-master . Think not therefore to naturalize Earth into Heaven , since every thing adheres and partakes of its own Nature . I advise therefore the Lovers of a solitary Life , to study Sobriety , Temperance , Patience and Chastity ; for these Divine Blessings are the Gift of God. So is Contemplation , which never shines so clearly as when retired from the World and worldly Incumbrances . Woods , Rocks , Grotta's , Groves , Rivers and Rivulets are Places pick'd out for Contemplation ; where you may consider Creational Work , and melt with the warbling Notes of Philomel , and the innocent Harmony of musical Birds , that deliciate the Air , and delight the Attention . Or you may proportion your Meditations with the Pulse of the Ocean , or the soft and murmuring Complaints of purling Streams , that imprint their Passions as they pass along , when melting the smiling florid Banks . Nature consults no Artificer to imbellish and adorn her illaborate Works ; and shall the God of Heaven , the great Creator , draw his Lines from the faint Shadows of Nature ? Pray but consider , who makes the Sea keep her regular Motion , the Constellations their Rotations , and the erratick Stars roll in their several Orbs ? Are not all the Reins of Government in the Divine Hand of him that made them ? Is not the Christian's Diadem , and the Purchase of the Cross there ? Liberty and Freedom there ? the sweet Tranquillity of Peace there ? the blessed Society of Saints and Angels there ? Iustice and Mercy there ? the results also of Life and Death there ? And where shall we be found if not there , in those everlasting Arms of Beatitude , that exert our Souls by the Divine Ray of Contemplation ? Study Patience , practise Humility , and let Repentance be our daily Exercise ; since these with other Vertues , are Duties incumbent . Then may we sing Hallelujahs at an Angelical pitch ; and that 's a strain above the World's Ela. These , and such like Divine Impressions , we ought to imprint on our immortal Minds , when with impatieney we pursue our Exercise , either to the River , or solitary Lough . For the Taper burns , and the Thread of Life ( because lap'd up in this fine tiffany Web of Mortality ) like a Meteor terminates sometimes in a Blaze : Too late then to confer with Reason , or think of Religion . So farewel , and be happy in the Rules of Friendship ; but happier to live in the amiable Arms of Vertue , ever honoured , and admired , by thy Friend Philanthropus . To my Book . GO , tell those Men that bait their Hook with Gain , That plow the Hellespont , and cross the Main , To fish for Gold in ev'ry muddy Pit , And hourly wait for ev'ry paltry Bit ; That make their Shops the Fishponds , and the Fry , Knacks of all sorts , to catch the Standers-by ; That trole with silver Hook , but use no Rod , And freely strike , perchance the Line but nod : That use no other Links than such as are Compos'd of golden Threads , not Stone-horse-hair : Such mudling Anglers , all the Baits they lay Tempt nothing more than Arguments of Clay . Not well consid'ring , all this while they paddle In Craesus wealthy Ponds , their Eggs prove addle . For when they come to scale their Fry , and Cook , Ev'ry surprize reach'd them with silver Hook ; They must conclude more Fin than Fish was caught , 'Cause ev'ry Action proves an empty Thought . Come , trace the Angler's footsteps , he will lead Thy Genius to some Grove , or Rock : there feed Thy thoughts with Contemplation ; whilst most Men Think such retirements but a Cave , or Den : And I 'll assure thee when thou com'st to know Those Vertues that from Contemplation flow , Thou surely wilt conclude the whole Creation Was made for Man ; Man , but for Contemplation . Philanthropus . To my Honoured Friend Capt. Richard Franck , upon his Contemplative Angler . I Am no Fisher , But a Well-wisher to the Game : And as oft as I look And read in your Book , so oft I blame My Minutes spent with frothy Recreation , Whilst others live aloft by Contemplation . It s true , sometimes I read In Cambden and Speed , and sometimes Mercator : Yet in them I can't spy How the scaly Fry floats in the Water . We grant those Anglers were elaborate To fish the World ; but you the Anglers State. John Richards . To my Worthy and Honoured Friend , Capt. R. F. on his Contemplative Angler . SIR , you have taught the Angler that good Fashion Not to catch Fish with Oaths , but Contemplation . No Man that 's Wise , but out of good Intention Will hug your Plot , and well-contriv'd Invention . To take the Fowl , and Fowler let alone ; That 's not the killing two Birds with one Stone . But he that catches Fish , and Fisher too , Has done as much as Man or Art can do . Honour 's the Bait for one ; but silly Flies Are mortal Engines for the scaly Fries . And he that thinks to scape the present Danger , Fastens himself , thinking to noose the Stranger . For one or other's still catch'd in the Net When Politicians have the Pool beset . And haling to and fro , to fill their Dish , Lites on a Chub perchance , or some such Fish , That dies without Redemption , unless be Amphibion-like , can live by Land , or Sea : But in the Calms of silver silent Trent , There 's no such danger in the Turnament . For you may fish till Sun-set , nay all Night , Find but your Gamesters a fresh Appetite ; And that a Bait will do , when you would court Your Game ashore , that dies to see the Sport. Mercurius Hermon . To my Honour'd Friend Capt. R. F. Author of the Contemplative Angler . I Know , Ingenious Sir , that Sol's bright Rays Make Tapers useless ; so will be my Praise Of this your Angler , for what I express Can nothing add to that illustrious dress : Except in this , as Colours dark , we know , Cause brighter Colours far more bright to show . The Garb it 's clothed in , indeed is Rich ; Made up of neatest Ornaments of Speech ; Grac'd with most pleasant Fancy , and the Flow'rs Of purest Elegance , pick'd at such Hours When you have sat to hear the Muses sing On the sweet Banks of the Castalian Spring : Adorn'd with most curious Observations , Ioin'd with most sober Contemplations : Things both Divine and Moral , and withal Pleasant Descriptions Geographical : Full of Ingenious Variety , Mixt here and there with dainty Poesy . So that there 's scarce a Line throughout the Book That is not furnish'd with its Line and Hook , With which the Reader will be caught , when 's Eye Is searching how to cheat the scaly Fry. Ladies will make it their Companion , And learn by it to fish in Hellicon . Who , when that their fair Eyes shall chance to view Your active Fancy , will with haste pursue After the same , to see its utmost flight ; And so involve a progress of Delight . Here 's nothing to offend their Eyes or Ears , Nor fill their tender Breasts with dismal Fears . No horrid Plots , nor base Conspiracies , Nor noise of Arms from Mars his Nurseries : No Fields of Blood , nor Air disturb'd with Tones Of harshest Discords sent from dying Groans . Arnoldus , and Theophilus will lead Them in more pleasant Paths : They now may tread On Scotish Ground with Pleasure ; for that Place Looks brisk and fair , since you have wash'd its Face . 'T will please them when they do behold the State Of this new Structure bravely situate : And then immediately they 'l fall in love With that alluring , and delightful Grove ; And those harmonious Birds that sit and sing , Whilst ev'ry pretty purling pleasant Spring Doth murmur as it glides , and loth to be Depriv'd the Sweets of such Societie . Here may be found those vertuous harmless Sports , That far transcend the Vanities of Courts . Here may be seen each Hill's majestick Brow Smile on the amorous Valley that 's below . Here may a Man enjoy such pleasant Naps , As Poets have upon the Muses Laps : Whilst gentle Zephyrus from Rosie Lips Sends whispers , which through fragrant Bushes skips Vpon the gentle Streams , that glide away Whilst Lambs do bleat , and pretty Fishes play . And thus through paths that strewed with content , You bring the Reader to the silver Trent , Vpon whose fertil Banks methinks I see Apollo's Darlings making Melodie : Led by your Fancies thread from their own Spring , And in delightful Tones sit sonneting : Who when they mention you in their sweet Lays , May th' Angler eccho your deserved Praise . John Slator . To my Honour'd Friend Capt. R. F. Author of the Contemplative Angler . ATlas i 've seen , and I have read your Book , Where ev'ry Argument's a Line and Hook To catch the curious Reader ; let him throw But to surprize the Fish , he 's surpriz'd too . For whilst in shady Streams the Anglers watch To catch the Fish , the silly Purdues catch'd . Nay I have seen , when I have seen you spread The trembling Streams with neither Silk nor Thread , That you with Horse-Hair upon throwing in , Has Fish surpriz'd that never wagg'd a Fin. Mussles in Trent , I 've seen them leave the Water , And swim ashore as if 't were them you sought for . Cheese after Meat prohibits other Dishes , And after Shell-fish rarely other Fishes . Now Anglers look about you , whilst you draw Your Game ashore , and preach the Common-Law Of Destiny , as if it were a Favour To sentence Death beyond all good behaviour : You know not but your selves in project may Be angled for , whilst you devour the Prey . If so , the Fisher with the Fish takes share , And both alike their fortunes equal are . Richard Johnson . The Author to the Poet. IT 'S true , you do allow a Man may fish In Trent's calm Streams , and complement his wish . What then ? were Trent all Fish , without content I 'd neither covet Fish , nor value Trent . The glorious Eye of Speculation differs From airy things that 's hung about with Ciphers . It 's not the Man that 's Rich , it is the Mind That makes him happy ' cause it's unconfin'd . Riches remonstrate horrid shades of Night The Day puts off , which Phoebus puts to flight . And Fear our flight pursues , so that where e're We lodg our Fears , Death he brings up the Rear . But Solace and Content , is such a Thing , And so Divine ; it 's great Jehovah's Ring , With which he weds the World , to make Earth's Portal The Celebration of things more immortal . For Heaven and Earth in unity repose , From thence our Contemplation sweetly flows . The great and lesser World 's all Harmony ; The Spheres are vocal Pipes , Man 's but the Key , That when Jehovah's Fingers touch to play , The ravish'd Soul shakes off this mould of Clay ; And hov'ring with her Wings , at last makes flight Vnto those endless Cords of true Delight . Philanthropus . A Brief DESCRIPTION of the Cities , Citadels , &c. in Scotland . With the Contemplative Angler . Theophilus . IT was in April when every Bough look'd big with Blessings , and the florid Fields , and fragrant Meadows ( adorn'd with Green ) sent forth their sweet and redolent Perfumes to refresh the Universe . Chanticleer then gave the Day a Summons , and the early Lark , earlier than the Sun , salutes the Air , whilst blushing Phebus paints and gilds the Azure Globe , whose Celestial Influence ( by refulgent Magnetism ) blest all the World with Prolifick Blessings : so that the whole Creation began to vegitate , and every Vegetation sent forth sweet Aroma's ; the Birds began now to build their Nests , and every Bird to choose his Mate ; whilst the Groves and delightful Springs , as also the Forests and unfrequented Desarts celebrated the fragrant Spring ; when the frigid Congelations of Frost and Snow were all struck dead by the blazing fiery strokes of the Sun. Arnoldus . What infer you from these pretty Metaphors ? Theoph. I infer thus much : The Vernon Ingress smil'd a Blessing , when she sent the melodious Harmony of Birds to melt the Air. The Nightingale with her warbling Notes , the Blackbird , Thrush , Linnet , and Golden-Jay , besides the Canary and delicious Bulfinch , fill'd all the Woods with their solitary Strains : And because beating the Air with such proportionable Harmony , every Bush became an Aviary , and every Grove a mellifluous Consort , whilst the purling Springs , and more shady Rivulets , softned by the gentle Breathings of Zephyrus , seemed tacitly to express a secret , whispering , silent Praise . Arnold . To whom ? Theoph. To whom think you ? unto Iehovah the great Creator . Arnold . Very well exprest ! Proceed . Theoph. Things thus posited , under such a rectoral Governance , my Reason , and all my Faculties were excited to contemplate the excellent Beauty of this stupendous Creation : but above all , when to consider Man Lord of this Creational Work , and invested with Power to conduct the Creatures , and intrusted with the Cargo of the whole Creation ; this I confess was very surprizing , when but to consider him in a Natural State , and compare him with the Excellency of Celestial Beings . Arnold . What observe you from thence ? Theoph. I observe him complicated , and compounded of Elements ; and Elements of themselves they drop in sunder . Arnold . But what if you take him translated into a State of Grace and Regeneration ? Theoph. Why then I 'll grant the first Death is past , and the second Death shall have no power to hurt him . Arnold . So far you 'll grant him to excel all created Beings . Theoph. Yes : But not as he stands in a Natural State. Arnold . Do but consider him a living Monument of Praise , inrich'd with all the Endowments of natural Perfection ; besides those eminent Qualifications of Piety , which intitle him Excellent , and confirm him a Creature adorn'd with all the signal Marks and shining Characters of this stupendous Creation . Theoph. Why so ? Arnold . And why not so ? Does not the Lion and the Leopard , with the Tiger , Wolf , Panther and Vulture , pay their Veneration to him ? Does not his very Aspect confound the Crocadile ? and with one superficial Glance of his Eye , he mortifies the Basilick . Consider the Composure of his Face and Features , together with the delicate Frame , and his well-compos'd Fabrick of Body : Do not these present him a Composition of Majesty ? Surely it does : for all the Creatures honour and adore him , which demonstrates him a Monarch , and of such a Princely Soveraignty , that the whole Creation pay their Services to him . Theoph. You wilfully misinterpret me , or prevaricate your own Judgment , by taking wrong Measures . That Dignity and Vertue ( you sum up ) that formerly shin'd as a Ray about him , is now become a Cloud , a promiscuous Cloud to obscure him . Arnold . How can I mistake my self , when to consider him in a most eminent State ; and such a Capacity of Beauty and Excellency , that the maz'd World think him more than a Monarch ? Theoph. They may think what they will of his Primitive State , but convinc'd by Experience , he is not so now . It 's true , the time was , when all the Creatures with a solid Submission humbled themselves before him ; but that was then in his State of Innocency , in Eden's fair Fields , before Transgression , before he unhappily found out the Art of Sinning ; then and there it was they paid their Veneration , but do they so now ? We experience to the contrary : for the Beauty and Majesty of that glorious Image was so macerated and torn by the Talons of Sin , that it has grown up since to a Flood , to deluge Posterity . This Act of Disobedience divested our Protoplast , and influenced his Successors so , that every Generation since Adam , has laboured under the same Predicament ; for that dethron'd Adam in Paradise , disinherited us , and Adam's Posterity ; there it was Man lost his Prerogative ; and here it is , Sin makes us less than Men. Arnold . Can one single Act in our Protoplast so vacate the Royal Grant of Prerogative , to enervate the Conduct of succeeding Generations ? Surely no. The glorious Act of Government shines universally in Man , and will so to the succeeding Generations . The whole Creation was placed in a Posture of Servitude to Adam , as he himself stood a Subject in Obedience to his Creator . So that if I rightly understand Creational Work , the great End was to discover hidden things , and manifest Idea's , with the Consequent of Production of their various Species . So that , under Submission , I may as rationally conclude , that the Creatures in the Creation have now , as then , a natural Right to bend their Submissions to Man's Princely Soveraignty . Theoph. I very much doubt it ; for no sooner Adam lost his Prerogative , but he he felt a Trepedation invade all his Vitals , and his Soul began to blush within him , because afrighted with the Aspect of Sin , that at a distance presented him the Picture of Death : now the same Death that strangled him , strangles all his Posterity . Thus it was when Adam lost his Government , and thus it is with us when governing imprudently ; for till then the Creation was unacquainted with Disguise ; nor till then did the Creature relinquish his Authority , till he relinquished his Primitive Simplicity . Arnold . What happened then ? Theoph. There happened a Change in all the Creatures , because they perceived a Change in their Conduct ; where note , ever since that general Revolt , the Creatures have been cautious to repose a Trust under mortal Protection , because destitute of Power to govern himself . Arnold . Will you deny Man a Soveraign Power and Divine Right , to intitle himself Universal Monarch ? Theoph. That 's not the Point in Dispute : I have already granted , that Adam's Divine Graces sprung spontaneously from the refulgent Ray of the Majesty of God. But what is that to us ? Can we restrain our Hands from Blood , and our Hearts from Malice , and precogitated Sin ? Now every Man knows the Reward of Sin is not Death simply , but Divine Justice , and Divine Justice bars out all the Footsteps of Mercy . Arnold . That 's undeniable ; however I 'm convinc'd , that could we but govern our own Irregularities , our Passions , our Ambitions , and exorbitant Desires , we should shine like Stars ( among Men ) and seem in some sort almost immortal . Theoph. That word ( almost ) was well put in : but to the Argument , as to Point of Government ; if unlike Christians we govern our selves , we tacitly slide into the Inconveniency of Slaves ; and such we may suspect our selves to be , because to sink under the weight of every single Temptation , by which means we sully all those excellent Privileges that adorned our Protoplast in his Primitive State. Arnold . What State then must we call this , a State of Apostacy ? Theoph. You may call it what you please ; for every Man is in a State good or bad , but worst of all is that State that lifts up its Hand to rebel against Heaven : Such were the Giants in the days of old , and such are we now because overgrown in Sin. How often have we violated the Authority of our Commission ? and how often have infring'd the Liberties of the Creation ? Now in the Primitive State there were no such Proceeds ; for then the Creatures flew as naturally to Adam's Hand , as terrified now they fly from ours . The Turtle then was heard in every Grove , now they coo no where except in Aviaries : all the Families of Birds then fill'd the Air , now they are compell'd to whistle in Cages : then they exprest their Gratitude with Demonstrations of Joy ; now they lament their Destiny , because doomed to die . This was the Golden Age our Ancestors liv'd in , but it 's the Iron Age we live in now . For Innocency in effect is almost lost , and it 's well if we lose not our selves . Arnold . However I cannot yield to this Conclusion ; that Adam's Commands were so torn and macerated , that surviving Posterity should neglect their Obedience : For if when to consider how many Generations have travelled through the Map of Time ( from our Ancestors to us ) and Time you know informs us of Experience ; How rational is it then to conclude ( but I only offer it for Argument-sake ) that was Adam repossess'd of Paradise again , and premonished of Sin , ( as we are daily precautioned ) whether or no it might not be thought to raise a Circumspection in him , to evade the Serpent , the Sin , and the Woman's Temptation ? Into this Opinion most Ages have crept , and our Modern Assertors , and Predicators approve on 't . Theoph. That 's a Point beyond my Sphere ; I meddle not with why may not's ; however I allow you a Privilege , and freedom of thinking or saying what you please ; but then you ought not to circumscribe Bounds to another . However , this I assert , That such was the Original Purity of Adam , in his State of Innocency , that his Graces then shined with Heavenly Rays , and Heaven we know is all Generosity . But every Generation since Adam , has so diminished that Beauty and Lustre , that from Men we are almost dwindled into Morts . Arnold . Ay , but my Friend , have you well considered , how that the formal Fabrick of Man's Natural Body , doth represent unto us the World's Epitome ? Why not then by the glorious Speculation of his Mind ( under a renovating and regenerate State of Grace ) he may represent something of the invisible Glories ? Theoph. You come near to the Point ; Did not the Generations more and more degenerate ? but this beyond Precedent has outdone all the rest . For by offering Violence against all that 's good , will at last offer Violence against it self ; and this is but just by the Law of Retaliation . Arnold . Why so ? Theoph. Because so vehement in the pursuit of Sin , we outdo our Ancestors ; and what 's the Conclusion ? Adam you see was made an Exile , and compell'd to relinquish the Sun-shine of Paradise , he was forced to sit down under the Shades of Mesopotamia : but we renounce both Law and Gospel , to monopolize the World , and aggrandize Posterity ; this is now our deplorable State , compare it with Adam's , and give your Opinion . Arnold . My Opinion in short is , Adam comes short of us : for as he was the Father of all his Posterity , so , as Father , we patronize all manner of Impiety . Now I have given you my Opinion , how do you approve on 't ? Theoph. I 'll sum it up thus . Whilst Adam stood in Purity his Beauty shin'd without Deformity ; so that by the Will of the Divinest , had he kept his Station , Posterity had never been doom'd to die by the cold and icie Finger of Death . Arnold . O Theophilus ! that one single Sin should so deform him that was elevated and exalted above the Beauties in the Creation ! Theoph. Just so it happ'ned to that bright Star Lucifer , ( and his aspiring Conspirators ) whose Ambition dethron'd him , and so it will us . He striving to get above that that was super-excellent , lost that Excellency the Supreamest had given him . So we placing our Affections on exteriour Objects , we but inamour our selves with our own Similitudes : Judg of the Consequence . Arnold . Is the Law of Nature a standing Rule or no ? If it be a Rule , it ought to be obeyed ; for its natural in kind to answer kind . Theoph. Can Nature , as Nature , exert our Zeal , to stir up in us the lively Act of Faith ? Surely Faith is no Part of Creational Work , it 's rather a Bough or Branch that buds up from Regeneration . The Excellency therefore of the things that are , are not of themselves , but dependent on some other infinitely more glorious ; such is the Creator . Arnold . He that made the World had no need of Assistance ; but all things that are made were made by him alone . Creational Work therefore was discovering hidden Ideas , and making Invisibles to appear visible . Theoph. God the Creator made himself manifest , in time , by his glorious Act of Power , in creating ; who by his eternal Wisdom and Providence upholds it , that it drops not asunder . Arnold . That 's manifest by the Eye of Sense ; but he that sees by the Eye of Faith , sees beyond the Creation , for he sees the Creator ; and in seeing him , he sees his Redeemer . Theoph. Why then struggle we so hard after superficial Knowledg , to defeat our selves by the dull Prospect of Sense ; for if when to create Inquietudes in our selves , we labour and toil with unprofitable Anxiety ? Arnold . What but the Curse anticipates the Blessing ? Man and the Creation were made in time , and Time was drawn out by the Wisdom of God ; but the Understandings of most Men differently discerning , differently distinguish , till Time , the Harbinger of Eternity , eats out his Character , so translates him to the Shades of his silent Sepulchre . Theoph. What infer you from this ? Arnold . Solomon was a Man inspir'd with Wisdom , and endued with Understanding ; and God gave him Eyes to foresee the Vicissitude and Revolution of Times and States . Theoph. Solomon had a Divine Soul , incorporated with humane Nature , whose Ambition ( if proper to say so ) coveted Wisdom rather than Wealth : and God answered his Desires . In that Day Solomon was the Jewish Oracle : but every Day is the Almighty's Holy-day , and Time and the World like a Globe in his Hand . Consider therefore , the same Excellency of Spirit Solomon had , hovers still over us , like a Glory about us ; and by Divine Permission over every Generation : But because falling short of Solomon's Knowledg ( and Divine Speculation ) we do not as Solomon , all alike discern . Arnold . Grant the Argument admits of no Contradiction , yet you will find it a Task difficult enough , to study the Art of Self-resignation . Theoph. Solomon , you grant , he refused Wealth for Wisdom . But what think you of Saul , that went as far as Endor , and rak'd up the Ashes of the Dead , to enquire a Victory ? Arnold . I think the Case different , both in Nature and Quality ; the one chose Wisdom , but the other Witchcraft : so to connect them together , draws on a false Conclusion . Theoph. Then the Consequence follows ; Saul's reasoning with Flesh and Blood , as it was impious ; so his Application to Sorcerers and Necromancers was also diabolical , who to accomplish the End of his Conspiracy , consults not Endor only , but the Brood of Infernals . Arnold . He did so , who denies it ? I know what you 'll alledg , you 'll tell me the Tree is known by its Fruits . I grant all this , and what then ? yet I dare not interpret Saul a Son of Perdition : God's Mercy never wants Wings to fly to the disconsolate Penitent , whose Mercy super-excels his Divine Acts of Justice . Therefore judg not Saul , lest we judg our selves , when by the Heart only things are legibly construed . Theoph. It 's true ; the Heart made legible , discovers a Phenix or a Vulture ; the first living , ( as Hippocrates says ) and the last dying : so that neither Physick nor Philosophy can make mortal immortal . There 's neither Energy nor Excellency in the superficial Form : Vertue lies conceal'd , as a Jewel in a Cabinet : No Man therefore can be read by his Species . Arnold . To grant your Conclusion , proves the thing less difficult in knowing others , than to search within to know our selves . Solomon had Wisdom and Divine Discoveries ; and Saul had Courage to encounter the Philistines . Theoph. That Authority that tolerates Solomon to have Wisdom , the same Authority concludes Saul inquisitive after Witches . Arnold . Admit it does , ( what then ? ) that Power that gives Life a Being , is indisputably more noble than the thing that has Life . God created the World , and by Wisdom animated it with Life ; so that Life shines every where , in every Individual ; this is manifest to every Man , and every Creature that breaths in the Creation . Theoph. This I agree in , but I can't reconcile my self to your Opinion , that Solomon and Saul's Case run in parallel Lines : Lucifer and Michael , though Stars of the first Magnitude , yet they paid not equal Adoration to their sovereign Superiour . Arnold . I don't question but you will grant , that nothing has Life of it self , but from something else that 's eminently superiour : That the World is governed by Divine Providence , and that every Beginning is destinated to Death in time . Theoph. All this I grant , what infer you from thence ? Arnold . I infer and observe you are somewhat too severe in censuring Saul's Sin by the Rule of your Judgment unpardonable . Now for one Man to take upon him to judg another , he betrays his Rashness , because his Judgment is not infallible . Theoph. I know where it pinches , you 'll hinge upon Mercy . Arnold . I must tell you that God is a merciful Judg , whose Mercy , as recorded , is above all his Works ; and a Mystery so sacred and secretly conceal'd , that Angels themselves dare not pry into it ; How then shall Man discover this admirable Arcanum of Mercy , when lock'd up in the secret Cabinet of Heaven ? Let us not assume such previous Conjecturals , but rather consult and expostulate Death , since Death is the Wages and the Reward of Sin. Man and the World terminate in the Arms of Death , because they alike consist of elementary Principles : But Death will be found the Extinguisher of Life , except that Life that 's lighted by the Torch of Regeneration ; that Life will outlive the second Death . Theoph. But you 'l agree in this , that a vicious Man living ( and reigning ) in Sin all the Days of his Life , his Life may be taken for a living Death . Arnold . I 'll comply with any thing except Censoriousness ; for that end trumpet not Solomon's Praise too loud , lest the Eccho resounding , ecchoes Ostentation . On the other Hand , not to hope an Indemnity for Saul , we straiten God's Mercy , which is infinitely boundless . So let 's leave it to the Judg of all the World : for if the World be left to determine this Case , she 'll denounce a false Judgment , because of her Partiality . Nay , she may be suspected uncharitable too ; and such are we , if Children of the World , because subject to err by the Rule of Instability . Theoph. You bear hard upon me , yet I 'm loth to give up the Cause ; there 's little or no Difference in the length of our Weapons : but this I 'll say , so drop the Argument . Solomon was an Oracle of Wisdom and Learning , and the blazing Star that shin'd in Ierusalem . And Saul was a King , and the first King in Israel ; but then he was that King God gave in his Wrath , which was soon after removed , for David stood in Saul's way . Arnold . So did Vriah in his , when inamoured on his Wife . Theoph. But David was a Prophet , and a Man of God ; and Saul was censured for his impious Exorcisms , as if the Tincture of Regeneration was obliterated in him . Arnold . God forbid that the Sting of Sin should be so venemous a Poison , that no Antidote can cure it ! Did not the Lord of Life die to conquer Sin , and Death , and Hell , in every Believer ? Let us be so charitable as to parallel Saul with Sampson , who had his Dalilah , as Saul had his Endor . Here we read that David found Repentance , after the Prophet's Reproof : And Sampson had his Satisfaction upon the Lords of the Philistines . These two had their Pardon feal'd before Death ; and fain would I be so charitable to conclude so of Saul . Theoph. Ay , but Saul's Fault is writ in Capital Characters . Arnold . That 's instituted for our Admonition , and the Reformation of succeeding Generations . Theoph. O Arnoldus ! the Generations to come will abominate this , that inflames it self to set the rest of the World on fire . Arnold . Then let them burn and consume one another ; for Lust and Pollution augment the Flames . Theoph. Do not all the Nations and Kingdoms about us exhaust their Treasures to indulge themselves , and devote their Services to the Hypocrisy of the Times ? Arnold . It 's rare ( to a Miracle ) to find Faith amongst Men , especially such as daily expose Conscience to the wreck of Opinion : And he that makes a God of his Belly , devotes all his Services to his luxurious Appetite . Thus Men , as by Machination , traduce one another into the Devil's School , to brazen themselves against the Modesty of a Blush , lest Sin should be thought to be shame-fac'd : And others raking up the Embers of Revenge , fire themselves by quenching the Flames . Theoph. So let them . But what 's all this to our Angling Design ? Arnold . Stay a little till we come to the Water-side : In the mean time I have a Question to put , and that 's this ; How comes it to pass that the Hinge and Poize of Politick States , move and turn about with such rapid Motions , that Kingdoms and Potentates are dash'd in pieces ? Theoph. The Naturalist , we see him consult Natural Causes , and the Judicial Astrologer Planetary Events ; but the more Religious devotes himself to the Providence of God. Is there not a Time for Frost , and a Time for Hail ? a Time for Rain , and a Time for fair Weather ? a Time for Revolution , Dissolution and Death ? and all these Times and various Changes are exercised by him that holds the Poize and Ballance of Government . That Naturalist therefore that concludes a Divinity in Celestial Influences , does but grope in the dark ; and the Astrologer pins his Faith upon other Mens Sleeves . Arnold . You tread upon the Heels of my former Assertion . Theoph. What if I do ? I hope not to hurt you . The Prince of this World rules in the Air , insinuating himself into the Heart of Man , from whence comes War , and the Rumours of War , as Rapine , Ravages , Murder and Blood. Does not Pride strut up in the Face of Piety , and Hell presume to justle Heaven ? And can Good and Evil ( think you ) run in parallel Lines ? No Arnoldus , I perswade my self , this Age lives within one Step of Destruction , were it not upheld by an Almighty Providence . Arnold . O the Subtilty of Man's Heart , that nothing but Arrows from the Almighty can reach it ! Theoph. He that reads his own Heart , without a Perspective , reads all the World ; but to know God is Life eternal , and that 's more than the World knows , because wanting the Key of Knowledg . Arnold . Man is like a Ship in a turbulent Sea , where every Wave threatens him with Death , and every Gust of Wind one Step to his Grave . How mindful therefore ought he to be of Well-living , which answers the Ends of Well-dying . Theoph. Divinely alluded ! Man therefore by how much the more honourable he is than the rest of his Fellow-Creatures , by so much the more nobly and divinely ought he to be exercised in the Piety of Christianity and Self-resignation . Arnold . This is good Advice , but still methinks I see a Storm coming ; not that I prognosticate another Revolution ; No , no , rather a Desolation by Sword or Famine : for Sin , like a Granade , tears up all before it , and rips up the Foundation of Kingdoms and Common-wealths . Theoph. It is true , Sin is the original Cause of all National Calamity ; and there is no Satisfaction for Sin , but the Death of a Saviour : The Cross must purchase the Crown : The old Man must die to seal the Regenerate Birth . What have we to do but consider the transitory State of things , and the Stability of that that gave them a Being ? Here 's nothing but rumbling and jumbling about us , till he come , whose Right it is to reign , and subdue all Monarchs , and make their Thrones his Footstool . Arnold . By this prophetick Discourse , methinks I smell a strong Scent of Invasion . But where the Storm will fall , God he only knows . Are not the Nations about us like an Acaldemy of Blood , that darkens the Air , and terrifies my Pen to write such dismal and tragical Apprehensions ? Will not the Sword , Plague and Famine contend for a Victory ? O how sad will it be to see the Father fall by the Dint of Sword , the Mother crawl by the infected Walls of a Pesthouse , and the poor innocent and comfortless Infant perish in the Streets , and pine away with Hunger ? Three such meciless and unsatiable Conquerors , and all to keep the Field at once , will totter the strongest Camp in Christendom . Theoph. Then where 's our Security , and what signifies the Strength or the Artifice of Man , when God has a Controversy with the Kingdoms of the World ? The Christian's Arms then will prove the best Security . He that cruciates his Lusts , outlives the Vice of Impiety . Arnold . What then becomes of him that throws Vertue into the Embracements of Vice , and prostitutes Justice before every clamorous Derider ? that lifts up the Standard of Impiety , to justle Religion , and profanes the Altar by superstitious Adorations ? that mounts Ambition on the Theatre of Luxury and Hypocrisy , and opposes the Gospel and Divine Oracles to humane Tradition , and the vain imaginary Inventions of Men ? that in Defiance of Heaven opens the Portals of Hell , and advances the Curse instead of the Cross ? What must we conclude from such dreadful Consequences , but that God will tear the Nations in pieces ? Theoph. There was a Time when the Law shin'd bright ; yet at the same time the Gospel shin'd behind the Horns of the Altar , ( but in this our Time neither Law nor Gospel shines ) the Divinest then had his Residence in the Sanctum Sanctorum ; but Hell is let loose now , and Heaven violated with Oaths and Imprecations . Arnold . The Times were bless'd in those Halcion Days , when our Patriarch Iacob was clothed with Innocency ; but in this our Day we are all turn'd Esau's , to pursue the World and inconstant Vanities : And though no Gospel-Star then shin'd amongst them , nor was Christianity known in their Courts ; it 's well if we that are Christian-Professors live up to the Practice of sound Morality . Theoph. We read in the Sanhedrim , that the Seed of Hagar stood in opposition to the Seed of Sarah . But Abraham's God will dwell in Tents , rather than in Temples with the Prince of this World : Yet Rachel had her Idols , who adds Sacrilege to Idolatry , by taking away ( or stealing ) those of her Fathers . Arnold . When the Turk turns Christian , there 's Hope the Persian will fight under the Banner of the Cross. Theoph. Then he 'll be fit to turn Roman Catholick , to stamp the Cross on every Service , and Vengeance with a Semiter on the Breasts of Protestants : to immure their Proselytes betwixt Stone-walls , so starve them to Death under Pretence of Sanctity ; and because not to die a violent Death , the Anchorite fancies he dies not at all . Is not this a fine way to mortify the Flesh , when at the same time they 'll surfeit with Fish ? that grope in the dark at Noon-day , and hold up a Taper to illuminate the Sun ? that like Spiders they 'll unravel their own Bowels , though it be but to entrap a silly Insect . Arnold . I look on the Hierarchy of the Church of Rome , like Men that encounter a blasted Fate : Where Priests are Saints Bells , but defective of Sound ; and Oracles at the Altar , but dumb in Explanation : that kindle their Tapers to blaze in the Temple , and consecrate Sacrifices without a Blessing ; so cover their Nakedness with a Babylonish Garment : Where Mattins are metamorphosed into Masquins , Collects translated into Collations , and St. Anthony's Bells into nocturnal Cabals . These are the Men that can mode Religion , and dress it up to humour the Times . Theoph. Religion of late is very much discours'd , and after some sort crept into most Mens Mouths ; but least in practice of any thing practicable . If they tell you that Asians are Athenians , you are bound to believe them : and that Turks are Christians , you cann't disprove them , since France and the Port have been Confederates . Nay there are some blear-ey'd Romanists , under Pretext of Christianity , will swear , that to worship Images is no Idolatry . And some others of such voracious Appetites , that they 'll eat the Horse , and digest the Stirrups . And some amongst them ( I speak what I know ) are never satisfied till glutted with Spoil , which exposes every Man to the Lust of his Adversary , whose Power is as equal to restrain his Will , as the Body to refrain from Drought in a Fever . Arnold . I make no doubt on 't , we have Copernicans amongst us , that can fancy the Earth , as the Orbs , turn round ; so rapid are the Minds of some in this Adultrous Generation , to be winding and turning , till He comes that will overturn , and dissolve the Elements like Ice in warm Water ; so melt down the Creation with one single Blast , and strike that dead that violates his Regal Commands : The all-glorious beatifical Star of Heaven's high Tribunal is already risen in our earthly Horizon , which virtually lifting up it self by magnetick Power , lifts up our Souls also by a Magnetism of Divine Sympathy , whereby we shall ascend above these muddy Cisterns of Earth and Clay , to blaze aloft in those illustrious and most illuminated Mansions of Beatitude and Eternity . Theoph. I grant what you say : There are a sort of Men that flatter themselves with Self-righteousness , and shape out Condemnation as a Reward to others ; that can spy the Mote that deforms their Brother's Eye , but the Beam that shades their own is no Impediment . Thus some gaze at their own Pageantry , and too frequently answer their own Petitions : that say to themselves , All is well , when nothing's well but what is ill : that live so near the Portalls of Death , as if there were no Death in dying . Such Men as these think the Sun shines Blessings no where but in their Chimney-corners : that build their Habitation upon a sandy Foundation : that judg and pre-judg both Moralist and Heathen , ( that rather deserves their Pity and Charity ; ) and censure all the World , when they themselves cann't live without it . Arnold . What crazy Props such Men lean upon , that exchange their Profession for Profit . If Christ be our Foundation , let 's believe as Christians ; not barely to honour the Appellation of Christianity , but live the Life and Practice of Christians , otherwise we build on a sandy Foundation , that sinks beneath the Surface , or tumbles down in the Storm . We daily observe the Earth a fix'd Body , yet it bears not the Heavens , nor it self neither ; because it hangs by Poize of its own , and the Providence of God supports it : For our blessed Saviour that made the World , is the Support of the World ; for none less than he that made the World , had Power to redeem Man , and save the World. This is the Water of Life that 's drawn from the inexhaustible Fountain of Christ our Redeemer . This is the true Physician of Life , that blots out the dismal Characters of Death . Thus whilst the formal Christian draws Streams from the muddy Cisterns of the ambignous World , his Devotion reaches no higher than himself , and the gaudy Titles of Ambition and Hypocrisy . Theoph. Shall I oblige Arnoldus to entertain us with a Contemplation of Seraphick Joys , whilst the silent Night passes away , and the blazing Torch of the Sun appears , that causes an early Blush in Aurora . Arnold . Every Day has a new Birth , but Time and the World had but one Beginning . The Night was made to shadow the Day , but the Sun to light and illuminate the Universe ▪ and this was ordain'd by the Wisdom of him that stuck the Stars in this beautiful Order , before whose triumphant Throne the devout Penitent prostrates his Devotion , and pours forth his Orizons and sweet Adorations in the Presence of that great and ineffable Good , that made the glittering spangled Orbs , and is himself the Light of the World ; before whom every Nation and Kingdom must bow or break ; whose Mercy infinitely excels all his Works , and whose Justice and Judgment who shall dispute ? Theoph. O ArnolduS ! pray goon . Arnold . The Elements , nay the Heavens contain him not , nor is he comprehended within the circular Globe of the Spherical Orbs. These luminous Bodies of Sun , Moon and Stars , were ordained by him to light the Creation : for he that made them gave them a Being , and dignified them also with prolifick Virtue , adapting them Parents of Vegetation , Procreation , and Prolongation of Life , whereby to regulate and reform Times and Seasons ; as also to distinguish betwixt Summer and Winter . The greater Light he made to govern the Day , but the Moon he made to patrole the Night ; and that they have Influence upon secondary Causes , no Man is so irrational , I hope , as to question it . Theoph. For my part I do not ; pray proceed . Arnold . Thus the Stars and Constellations have Divine Order and Influence ; and the Celestial Powers and Principalities , as Angels and Arch-angels , Thrones and Vertues , have Dominion also over humane Frailties : And where the Patriarchs and the Prophets are with the Apostles and Evangelists , with the whole Quire of Saints , Cherubims and Seraphims , perpetually singing Praises and Glory to him that sits on the Throne , and rides triumphant on the Wings of the Wind. O let the silent Deeps and the ponderous Mountains , with every thing that has Breath , praise the Lord ! For the Earth is his , and the Fulness thereof : by whose Wisdom the World was made , and Time begot ; and by whose infinite Power the separated Elements live still in Harmony ; who form'd the Fetus of Earth , and made the Firmament its Swadling-band : and in the vast Circumference of Heaven he hung up the glorious Creature the Sun , whereby to illuminate and illustrate the World ; whose Centre nor Circumference contains him not ; nor the Excellency of his Glory that superexcels all Creatures and Creations ; from whom the deplorable Sons of Men wail for Deliverance and Redemption from Sin. And now let 's contemplate the nocturnal Muses . Sleep first presents us with an Emblem of Death : yet is it the poor Man's Solace , tho the rich Man's Terror : A Repose and Recreation to the wearied Limbs , but a Disease of Inquietude to the voracious Mind : the Body's Requiem , and Death's Effigies . Now Death is the desired Hope of him that truly conteMplates the State of Immortality : And as Mortality is the End of Sorrow , so by Consequence it 's the Beginning of Joy : A Period of Misery , but the Trophy of Victory : The Resurrection of Life , and the Bloomings of Eternity . For as the barren Ground thirsts after Rain , so does the Oppressed seek Deliverance in Death . Great and good is our glorious Creator , whose Divine Excellencies superexcel the Creation ; whose infinite Wisdom display'd it self before Time and the World had as yet a Beginning . Pardon my Presumption , most sovereign Power , when to prostrate my Humilities before thy sacred Shrines , that with a holy Reverence and divine Piety all my Devotions may be acceptable to thee . We are but finite , but Thou art infinite : Infinite in Power , to create the World ; and infinite in Wisdom and Providence , to uphold it . Thy Government is in Heaven , yet thou rulest upon Earth ; but thy Habitation here is the Tabernacle in Man. O sacred Divinest ! direct us in thy Paths of Wisdom , to lead us the ready way to thy self : for thou rewardest every Man answerable to his Works , and our Works ( as Paul saith ) do certainly follow us ; then will they as certainly be an Orb to environ us ; and because an Object continually before us , we can neither evade nor shake them off , whereby they 'll delight or be a Terror unto us . As the Tree falls , so it lies ; and in the Grave there is no Repentance : therefore seek the Lord early in a Spirit of Meekness ; for the Meek are said to inherit the Earth , whilst the Proud that exalts himself , shall be abased . Thy powerful Arm has often reached Deliverance , the Righteous therefore shall rejoice in thy Salvation ; and all that sollicit thy Paths of Peace shall be found in their Duty as by Wisdom directed ; but Destruction as a Judgment is prepared for the Scornful : Therefore let the Pious rejoice in his Hope , for the End of the Wicked shall be an Abomination . Lord ! when we contemplate our mortal State below , and those invisible immortal Powers above , blest for ever to behold the Glory of thy Majesty ; it brings us to consider the Beginnings of Time , and to ruminate where we were when the Foundations of the World were laid and stretch'd out ; and who but thy self ( by Infinite Power ) fastened the Ends thereof , and lifted up the Curtains of Heaven's glorious Canopy , and caused the Face of the Firmament to shine ! Who but thy admirable Arm could separate Light from Darkness , the Sea from dry Land , and confine them with Barrocades of Rocks and Sand ? Who made those stormy Winds to blow , and those boisterous Hurricanes ( the Rage of the Almighty ) so tempestuously to roar , and roll themselves on the Face of the Deeps ? O what Hand , except the Divinest , could make Mortal immortal , and bring Salvation from the Loins of Iesse ! Can the Shades of Darkness speak the Wonders of thy Praise , or the Night discover the Eye-lids of the Morning , that when the Sun prepares his Course like a Giant , will the Clouds clap their Hands , and the Stars and Constellations shout for Joy ? But the Dead shall arise , and Mortality shall be clothed with an immortal Livery , that shall never tarnish , nor never diminish , but survive and out-live the Ides of Time , and flourish when Time shall be no more . Then let us consider our present State , the Shortness of Time , the Vanity of Things , and how light all our Services and best Performances weigh in the Ballance . Let us also consider the Morning-Star , the illustrious Aurora is rising upon us , and then it will be a perpetual Day . Let us imprint on our selves the Characters of our Eminent Ancestors ; but above all , the lively Sufferings of our blessed Saviour on the Cross , and no longer paddle in these Puddles of Sin , nor stumble in the Face of the Sun at Noon-day : for wounding our selves by Sin , makes our Saviour bleed afresh . We have excellent Precedents , that of David notwithstanding his Integrity , and that other of Solomon , tho the Prince of Wisdom ; of Hezekiah too , tho a very good King ; of Iosiah and others ; of Paul a Convert , of Peter a devout Reluctant , of Iob's Patience , Moses his Meekness , Abraham's Faith : all these were Men , besides hundreds more in holy Writ ) now eminent Saints ; whose Pieties like so many Trophies hang up aloft in the new Ierusalem , to adorn that Beautiful and Divine Habitation , where the Lamb is the Light , and where no Darkness can approach , nor Night close the Casements of their Eyes any more , nor the pale Aspect of Death the second time seal the Indenture of a profound Silence . Consider it seriously , for Piety is good Policy ; and a holy , devout and penitent Life no Impediment to a vertuous Christian : And so good Rest , Theophilus , that sleeps in silence . Theoph. Silent I am , but not asleep ; nor do I dream when I contemplate the everlasting Praise of the great Creator . How quickly has the Night dismantled her self of those shady Sables that covered Day , and concealed the flaming Steeds of the Sun , when advancing to approach our Northern Horizon ? Arnold . Come then , let us rise , and shake off Security : for as Sleep is no solid Direction to point out to us the Way to Heaven ; so Death ( tho at a distance ) is no long Reprieve ( nor assured Protection ) from the Grave . Theoph. Our former Ancestors lap'd not themselves in Downy Quilts , but made the Earth their common Reception : But this Age degenerates from Potentates to Pedanticks ; and carnally devote their Services to every idle and voluptuous Fancy . Do we not see with what Eagerness some Men pursue all dishonest Actions , whilst some others under the Consideration of Riches , hug a conceal'd Joy in their ill-got Treasures ? whereby they contrive the Calamity of the Poor , and at the same time rejoice at the Misery of the Orphan , whose Morsel they swallow down as greedily as they devour the Widows Habitation ? Thus some contrive Calamity , and sin by whole-sale , magnifying their Ambitions more than Men , when at the same time they dwindle into Morts . Arnold . But if Beginnings have Periods , as certainly they have , the Poor will rise up in Judgment against such ; and a Jog of Conscience , besides the Consequence of Blood , attend their Door . Their Favourites and familiar Flatterers then will dismiss themselves , and vanish like a Mist , and the dark Night of Horror overshadow all their Enjoyments : Their delicate and delectable Morsels will melt into Moonshines , and themselves transform'd into Dust and Ashes . This is the Lot , and will be the Fate of all those that pervert Blessings into profane Impieties . But I forget my self , for the Sun appears , and the Day will suddenly gain ground upon us ; let us arise and fit our selves for a solitary March. Theoph. We shall soon be ready , it 's only dismounting our Apartments to mount our Horses . What shady Groves are those , and what wandring Object 's that , that courts the Sycamores , and talks to the silent Rocks , as if there were a Remorse in Stones ? surely it 's Agrippa . Arnold . I 'm of your Opinion , what makes him there ? Theoph. I know not , except he 's come to summons us home . Arnold . Pray examine him ; I think it 's thrice three Months since the last time I saw him . Theoph. Shall I call him to us ? Arnold . Prethee do . Theoph. Agrippa , from whence comest thou ? Agrippa . From the flourishing Fields in Albion . Theoph. What 's the News there , this is an Age of Inquisition ? Arnold . So it is ; have you brought us any thing ? Agrippa . I 'm no competent Judg of the Times , nor of National Affairs ; but I 'll present you with some Books and Letters . Arnold . Have you no Scheme of Modern Transactions ? nothing verbal ? Agrip. What can be discours'd of the Times , and the various Projects of Men of the Times ? Arnold . Recollect your Memory , and refresh your self ; but when the Sun advanceth the Meridian , repair to that solitary Grove , where Theophilus with me , will stay your coming ; besure you disappoint us not , and bring your Narrative of all the Proceeds . Theoph. I question not he will be very mindful . Arnold . Come then , let us chat a while , and discourse Rome divided among the Romanists . Nay , what will you say to see the Church look asquint at the Pope , and Portugal to lift up his Heel to kick against his elder Brother of Spain ? It 's Madness rather than Manners to hear them wrangle and jangle about Religion , when there 's nothing left on 't but bare Opinion ; which if you won't conform to , they 'll stamp the Character of a Stelletto upon you , or the bloody Impressions of an Inquisition . Theoph. What , no better Entertainments in the Spanish Court , than such rough Salutes as Inquisitions and Stelletto's ! I should rather approve , that Vertue in a Prince is the richest Diadem in his Crown ; and Clemency to his Subjects ( the vital part of his Kingdom ) more obliging than all the gilded Baits of Flattery . Money , it 's true , is the Sinew of War ; and Honours and Dignities gaudy Accomplishments . What of all this ? when all comes to all , Honesty is the best Policy . Arnold . Let me tell you , Theophilus , Gold Chains best become great Men ; but not that Gold makes Goodness , nor Dignity Greatness , any otherwise , than a Badg of Honour makes a Man truly honourable : nor is Honour more legitimate than inherent Worth ; both spring from one Root originally , and live above the Smiles or Frowns of Fortune . Nor can such a Man be perverted that hates the nauciating Scent of a Parasite , that disclaims against Pensioners that pick his Pocket , and abominates Sycophants that fawn and flatter , and seem to adore the rising Sun ; yet with Impatience longs to see it set . Not but that no Sun shines without some Cloud , nor any Court is kept without some Flatterers , till that time comes ( and I hope is at hand ) that Vertue shall naturally flow from the Streams of Piety , ( and not from Imitation ) which spontaneously spring from the Celestial Fountains of pure Christianity . Theoph. When Democrasians dagger the Crown , then the perplex'd Native stands a tiptoe ( every minute ) expecting some fatal Event : and so it is , when Insolency justles Justice , then the Magistrate suffers Affronts in his Legal Justiciary Proceeds . Such Scorpions as these wound and infect the Body Politick . Ar. From thence I observe , whenever Pride is most predominant , there of necessity a Nursery of War is planted , that in time will murder the Blessings of Peace . We have learn'd by Experience , that Fulness of Bread ( without a Blessing ) perverts into Wantonness , so into a Curse , that by degrees grows up into such a Vice , that murders all it meets with , and kills without Care ; it 's a Vertue therefore to shun its Acquaintance . Th. Come Arnoldus , let us enter this solitary Grove , here we may dwell among Rocks ; consort with the Creation , and keep time with the Pulse of the fluctuating Ocean . Here we may refresh our Ears with the relishing Notes of tunable Birds , and astonish our Eyes with the beautiful Model of Heaven : Where whilst we gaze on those glittering Orbs , our Hearts as inspired may breath forth Flames . Ar. A solitary Life I always approv'd of , to trace the polite Sands , to sit down under the Shades of Woods and Rocks , and accost the Rivers and Rivulets for Diversion , ( as now we do ) and trample on the beautiful Banks , and florid Medows , beautified with Greens , that will not only refresh our Senses with their redolent Perfumes , but enamour us beyond express , when to see their Banks bath'd by such Silver Streams . Come and let 's pitch our Tents in these delightful Plains , where every shady Grove as an Vmbrella , will shelter us from the scorching fiery Beams of the Sun , till the Earth sends forth her sweet Aroma's ; over which the burnish'd and beautiful Firmament of Heaven surrounds all the Earth ( and the blessed Creation ) with Melody like Birds , and murmuring Streams ; I fancy it a kind of Counter-Paradise for Mortal Content : And how sweet and sublime is that Contemplation that surmounts Angels for Divine Associates ! Observe , Theophilus , that little rowling Rivulet , where every Eye may evidence Fish in those purling Streams courting the Sun , as if naturally enamoured with Stars and Celestials . Such Observations flow from our present State , let us therefore consider both the Author and the End. Th. If Ends and Beginnings have a like Fate and Period , ( as indisputably they have ) then Time and our latter End contemplates Eternity our future Hope ; so that a retired Life , of all Lives in my Opinion , will be most agreeable to our present Condition : for I like not the Aspect of our Friend Agrippa . Ar. Nor I neither , but be it what it will be , the Rocks and the Woods , if I calculate right , shall contribute to Arnoldus ; any Man may read in legible Characters a discontented Frown on his Martial Brow. Th. What if it be ? it won't make new Breaches in our Loyal Breasts . Ar. Nor cement old ones ; for here 's a Breast ready to receive the Charge of Danger , tho Death be Conduct . I value not the Swellings of my Adversaries , were every one of them as great as Goliah , as deep-mouth'd as the Cyclops that roar in Mount Aetna , or as formidable as Thunder , that cleaves the Cedars , and the sturdy Oaks ; yet the Shrubs may escape , and live in hope to see a Purgation of such eminent Contenders . Th. If ill Omens presage fatal Conclusions , I like not Agrippa's Aspect . Ar. Nor I that Resolution , that only endeavours Self-security . Th. Would you have me turn the Point upon my self ? Ar. No , nor your Friend neither , by turgid Repetitions ; come what will come , let 's talk no more on 't : high Tides have their low Ebbs ; and the higher any Man rises , the greater is his Fall expected . I know the World is such an inviting Morsel , that attempting to swallow it , some have been choaked . Alexander of all Men bid fairest for the World , yet when he went out of it , a Sepulchre of six Foot serv'd to inter him . Th. It 's just so now ; have not we a sort of Senators , that , impatient of Destruction , pull down the House upon their own Heads , to noose other Folks in the same Snickle ? Ar. There 's nothing can stand against the rapid Torrent of a giddy Multitude ; it 's good to stand clear of Male-contents , that justle Superiors , and call Parliaments Pick-locks , and Robbers of the People , under the pretence of publick Faith. Th. Such Furioso's I must confess are of an odd Kidney , that can silence Justice , and sentence the Laws ; that sit uneasy under Governments , tho of their own contrivings ; that are angry with any thing that 's uppermost ; nay , they shall arraign themselves , if no Superior to contend with : Such Men I question not will condemn us for Victims , tho without Breach of Law , or Affront to good Manners . Ar. That can never be done by any , except such as exchange their Loyalty for Luxury , that degenerate from Native English Men , and renounce their Oath in Baptism ; that swear they do not swear , and be Religious to boot . But the great Acts of former famous Men , will live upon Record on the Stage of the World , whilst the World has a Being ; more especially such great Actions as drew Life from Vertue : Such Heroes we have had ( but asleep now ) whose Memories still blossom , and after Death smell sweet in the Dust. Th. What then ? must we despair of our selves , as poor silly Birds do that are seiz'd in a Gin , and wait Deliverance from the wretched Fowler , as if Death would solace our captivated Fears , and refer them and us to the Grave for Reconciliation ? Ar. I am not ignorant that the Rape of a Sword results in a SCar , and amputates sometimes to the loss of a Limb , lest peradventure the whole Body be hurried into a Fever : For the Sword you must know is Death's cold Harbinger , that depopulates Kingdoms , and lays Countries in waste , sucking the Lives of the Subjects and Treasure of the Nation , till at last like a Cripple it creeps to its Grave . Th. But what if the Banks overflow with Plenty , and the Nation superabound with luxurious Inhabitants , may not a War in such case be thought requisite to purge the Kingdom of superfluous Vagrants ? Ar. Where Excess and Intemperance extend the Veins by Surfeit or Pleurisy beyond their natural Bounds , it 's better to bleed than blow up a Kingdom . Th. I 'm of your Opinion in that matter : in all acute Distempers , there ought to be adequate and expeditious Expedients : but without Offence , may I ask you one Question ? Ar. Two if you please , if I can answer them . Th. Why those signal Interruptions so oft invade you , that seemingly discover some odd Apprehensions . Ar. If they do , what then ? is it more than the Consideration of distracted Times ? Th. Sooner may the Tides forget their natural Course , than I forget to sigh a Penance for my Native Country . Ar. But then have you considered the Passion of such corrumpant Grandees , that think whole Kingdoms Gobbets not great enough to gobble down , to satiate their Appetites , till compleatly made victorious over Life and Fortune ? Th. The only way then to stop the Glut of such furious Drivers , is to interpose our selves , whilst others more innocent escape their Fury . Ar. You almost perswade me into a kind of Pity . Th. Or rather it may be into a Passion . Ar. That 's a Sin entail'd on Posterity , as naturally as Wax subjects it self to the Impression of a Seal : So that should I call Affection Passion , it but represents a Moral Glass , wherein every Man may read his own Face by Reflection . Th. And no sooner to retrieve or withdraw , when immediately he forgets both Form and Features . Ar. Then let all Suspicions suspend themselves ; so steer your Course to some other Point , and call Agrippa from behind that Sycomore . Th. I 'll step and call him : So ho , Agrippa . Agrippa . What Voice do I hear in these unfrequented Woods and solitary Streams ? Diana's Fountain , nor was Dodona's Grove otherwise than an Emblem of such mortal Contents ; what Rivers are enrich'd with Trout and Salmon , and Trees burdened with the Harmony of Birds ; for such a Life who would not covet Banishment ? Ar. What News Agrippa from the Coast of Albion ? Agrip. We have a Generation of People , that can make as good Papists to Morrow , as themselves are Protestants to Day ; that if Popery were but turn'd up Trump , would produce you their Charter in Queen Mary's days : they 'll walk to Church with you , and lie in her Bosom so long till they sting both her and you to Death , which makes all Mankind stand a tiptoe to see a tottering Government sink , and press down it self under its own Weight . Ar. What! have the Grandees no Influence on the People , are they grown void of natural Affections to themselves ? Agrip. What Charity they have for themselves I know not ; but this I know , they have none for one another ; nor will they contribute one single Sigh for the Kingdom 's Calamity , but rather shove the Burden upon the Peoples Shoulders . Ar. This is Forty One all over ; O the Miserie 's that Forty One brought upon the Nation ! ( thus some cry out ) but not a word of the Wickedness of the preceding Years that brought the Misery upon Forty One. Those barbarous Stigmatizings , Brandings , Gaggings , Pillorings , Whippings , cutting off Ears , like lopping of Trees , oppressive Judgments , unheard-of Proceeds by the High-Commission , and Star-Chamber-Courts ; Judicatories fitter for the Spanish Inquisition than free-born English-men and Christians ; by which means Liberty and Property were invaded at pleasure . Th. I remember what King Ahab said to Elijah the Prophet , Art thou the Troubler of Israel ? And I remember what the Prophet replied to the King , No , but thou and thy Father's House are , in that ye have forsaken the Commandments of the Lord , and followed after Balaam . Here we see the King charges the Prophet , and the Prophet he charges the King ; but the Prophet proves the Charge upon him . Ar. This was the Case in Forty One ; the King demands some of the Members of the House , and they return'd the King for Answer , It was a Breach of Privilege of the House ; but if his Majesty pleased to order a Charge against them , they would proceed to speedy Justice . Th. Was it in Forty , or Forty One , when the King with an Army invaded the Scots , and spent his Money to little purpose ? Ar. Yes truly , it was about that time ; for then was the Massacre calculated for Ireland , and Archbishop Laud's Publication of his Book of Sports for the Profanation of the Sabbath in England : here you see Prelacy and Policy went hand in hand together to murder Religion and Property , which brought them under the Severities of Justice . Th. Ay , but how came the King to be made a Publick Example ? Ar. Not because he had married with a Popish Princess , that gave great Encouragement to the Papists in England : Not for sending a Congratulatory Letter to the Pope ; Not for abdicating himself from his Parliament ; Nor for advancing his Standard Royal at Nottingham , and proclaiming open War against his Subjects . There was something under his own Hand appear'd against him , besides countenancing Papists , and protecting Delinquents from Justice . Th. The Scots betray'd him ( I have been told so ) every body says they sold their King. Ar. As much as you sold him : it 's true , the King threw himself upon the Scots , and the Scots threw him back again upon the English ; this is Matter of Fact , but few understand it , and fewer will believe it . Th. For the love of Friends , let us have the Truth whate're it cost . Ar. The naked Truth is ; The Parliament of England about that time , when the King at Newark threw himself upon the Scots , owed or was in Arrear to them 200000 l. Sterlin , for Service done ; for which they had for Hostage , Newcastle , Carlisle and Berwick upon Tweed : But upon paying them one Moiety down , they resigned their Hostage , and withdrew into Scotland , tendring the King to the English Commissioners , who at that time had no Instructions concerning him , till they sent to the Parliament to know their further Intentions , who ordered the Commissioners to apply themselves to the King to know his Royal Pleasure . Th. And what was his Answer ? Ar. He desired to be removed to one of his Southern Palaces , in order to which they removed him to Holmby . But the Jest lay here , the English without Instructions could not take him , and the Scots by Instructions would not take him : this was the critical time when no body would have him ; and the Reason the Scots gave for it was this , That he had made such Breaches in the Bowels of England , they were unwilling to take him into the Bowels of Scotland . This is the Truth on 't , and this is the Scots selling their King. But where 's Agrippa ? what have you done with him ? And I would as gladly know what our proud Superiors intend to do with us , except to spin out our Lives with the Wealth of the Nation . Th. Agrippa , Shall I ask you one single Question ? Whether is best , a Petty King in every County , or a Parochial Bishop in every Classis , to ride the People but half way to Heaven ? Agrip. I approve of neither ; though some oppose a single Person to an Eye-sore in the Kingdom , and at the same time conclude a Heptarchy more than enough totally to devour them . Th. Such a Government would enervate the People , and such Superiors live upon the Spoil of the Country . Ar. Is this the present State of Things , and the Project that prevails in every Man's Head ? What , is there no Trimming nor Neutrality left amongst ' em ? Agrip. Yes , there 's enough of that , and Solicitations for Peace among sober Men and Mechanicks . Ar. But what say the People as to Church-Government ? Is one Religion or more in fashion ? Agrip. Religion is made a meer Stalking-Horse , to answer the Ends of every Design , and worn so threadbare , that there 's nothing left to cover it , save only the Name on 't . It 's true , there 's some small Alteration in the Church , so is there in the State , by a late Purgation ; the Army also is decimated , and it 's thought the Mystery of Law will be made legible , to speak our Modern Dialect : but the Priest paramount is the bravest Fellow , because Presbyter Iohn struts a Horse-back , whilst the Proselyte like a Pensioner holds the Bridle ; but to speak plain English , most hold the Stirrup . Ar. What say Mercurius , and Publicus Anglicus ? Agrip. You have them both , and the National Diary to boot , where you may read the various Products of Men , frequent Tumults in every Corner , general Discontents in Families ; Heatings , but no Healings , in their grand Consults . Th. What do they vary for ? Agrip. Something superlative ; but the Generality cry , Tempora mutantur . Th. By this I perceive some dig deep to hide their Counsels . Ar. Deep or shallow , it 's a Tiffany Plot ; any Man with half an Eye may easily see through it : Who is it cries up Peace , only those Men whom the Times court , and the Constitution flatters ? such Men as these may cry up for Peace , while others sollicit an every day 's Novel : No , Theophilus , there 's nothing pleasant , every thing seems in a hurly burly ; and France and Spain at Sword 's Point . Th. O but then what becomes of our Force in Flanders ? and what Prospect have we of the Sweeds Expedition ? Ar. The Sweed you may read looks asquint on the Dane , the Portugal in Trouble , the Venetian unsafe , and the Turk infested with intestine War. Poor Europe , who can but pity thee ! more especially our Native Country Albion , where every Politician expects to be made a Monarch ; and where every ambitious Clown aspires to the Eminency of a Crown . Th. Now for a Book and a Brook , to contemplate , and recreate ; this rises to the Standard of the Philosophers Solitudes . Rocks and Rivers with Hermetick Groves , shadowed with Myrtles and purling Streams , will for ought I know better answer our present Occasion , than a Foreign Hope can insure us Accommodation . Ar. These Elementary Bodies , the beautiful Rags of Flesh and Blood , what present they but moving Shadows , that vanish in a moment at Death's Appearance ? Th. And do not some Men undermine themselves by supporting themselves on the Crutch of Mortality ? But the Arm that shakes the Foundation , cannot that Arm shelter us from the Storm ? Ar. Yes sure , since he that made the World gives it Nutrition , who by his Act of Providence makes Provision for its Continuation . Yet there 's nothing that had a Beginning , but has its Period , and in Conclusion melts into Invisibility . Th. That 's certainly true , for the Wages of Sin is Death ; all Men therefore must die , so must that proud Tyrant of France , whose Sins above knee-deep have sunk him up almost to the Chin : so that whoever comes within compass of his Steerage , he splits the Vessel , or inevitably oversets her ; exposing his Natives and others to a malicious Fate : Therefore how difficult is it to sail betwixt Sylla and Charibdis ? Ar. And as difficult almost to weather the Times at home ; for whenever a State stands a tiptoe , the common People are threatned Exiles . Th. I would not be thought so rash to preanticipate before trial ; nor would I truckle to uneven Tempers of Men and Times , by a supine Complacency , so to be coaks'd out of my Life by the sugared Temptation of Designers . Ar. Unthinking Men whilst the Storm is yet rising , rise before it , so fool away their Lives : He that falls in with a discontented Family , propounds to build on another Man's Ruin. The Divine Powers shake the Arm of Flesh ; and what is too difficult for God to do ? He that made the World , can throw it down and dash it in pieces . Th. Yes sure , and us too , if we stand within distance ( I mean in his way of Justice against Impenitents . ) O my Friend , let 's remove further off . Ar. What Star must direct us ? and whither must we go ? Th. Into the solitary Shades of Scotland ; for every Eye will trace us out here . Ar. What! so unjust to our selves , to fly without an Offence ! so condemn our selves before trial ! when our own Innocency I should think were enough not only to clear us , but also to protect us . Th. Time's sandy Glass slides swiftly into Eternity ; and so may some of these eminent Contenders slip into their Graves . That Wind blows high that makes our Fortunes stagger . Ar. Nor could Thunder shake the Courage and Constancy of David to Ionathan : Here we have for Precedent two of the Worthies in that Age , the one no less than a King and a Prophet ; and the other no less than the Son of a King. Come , let 's stand the Charge , there 's no Man knows what a Day may bring forth . Th. Yes , I 'm so prophetick to foresee a Stone Doublet , or something worse ; why then to contribute such Advantages to Men of no Faith ? Nay , I wrong 'em not , to say faithless to themselves . Ar. On the other hand , who would harbour or engender Fear , which lively prefigurates a faint Repulse , that never got Honour by Inches ? so that I resolve against preparing for Flight , and alike resolve not to think of Fear . Th. Such Resolutions will stem the Tide , and struggle with Death ; but who can withstand the Torrent of Invaders , or stifle a Mutiny that invades the Camp ? Ar. I should forfeit both my Reason and Discretion , to foresee Danger approach , and run head-long into Ruin ; want of Foresight ( not to foresee ) argues to me but a purblind Sight : And that Resolution I always approv'd of , that 's best understood by a constant Courage ; the Morals of Equity justify a Cause , and the Justness of a Cause puts a Period to doubts . Th. The Supreamest gives Wisdom , and Man a Capacity to choose it ; which , if he refuses , it argues an irreverend Neglect , both of the Donor and the Gift . Ar. Do we not see Nature commissioned from the Divinest , to dress up and beautify this stupendous Creation ; and how Wisdom and Providence give a Blessing to preserve it ? And do we act our Reason to throw both away , Wisdom that made us , and Providence that preserves us ? Th. It 's true , the Limit and Bound of Nature , is by the sacred Decrees of Providence : and Wisdom has no Limitation , because essentially from the Creator himself . Ar. Art imitates Nature , and Necessity is the Mother of Invention ; Science also invites to Study and Practicks , but Theory gives the Prospect , and Operation finishes the Project . From whence it follows , that Arts are sold to Ingenuities , and the Reward of Labour and Industry to Experience , and the Promulgation of Health and Maintenance . What tho Caesar and Pompey contend for an Empire ? Alexander Magnus bids fair for the World. Th. I have waded to the Chin in the Practicks of Experience ; but never attempted Knee-deep in the Rudiments of Politicks . Ar. And I have liv'd under various Dispensations of Providence , by the Divine Power and protection of the Divinest . Th. Nectar and Ambrosia have fill'd my Cup , almost to an overflowing ; while my Associates were the Pious and the Penitent ( but not the Politick ) with Apollo sometimes to bear a part , with musical Instruments that never spoke Treason ; this is a Life that lives above the World. Arnold . O the heavenly Raptures that flow from Contemplation ; they 'r enough to raise the Mind by divine Faith , and a holy Speculation , to the very Suburbs and Portals of Paradise . Theoph. And such is Unity , for it 's the Key of Harmony ; which if but touch'd by the divine Finger of the great Iehovah , how quickly the World is put in Tune . Arnold . And quickly out of Tune , where Policy is planted in the room of Piety . Now I always thought Piety the best Policy , when beautified with the Ornaments of true Christianity . For since God himself has blest Man with Reason , and to his Rationality added intellectual Understanding , let us act above Sense , for that enslaves us ; and once enslav'd , we 're captivated with Fears . Th. Were I a wise Expositor , I should interpret this Sentiment by the rule of Travel . Ar. And whither would your Fancy direct you ? Th. Into the very Centre and Bowels of Scotland . Ar. What would you propound to your Self , when there ? Th. The exercise of the Rod , and learn to Fish. Ar. And who shall instruct us ? Th. Our selves , who should ? You shall be my Tutor , and I l'e be your Pupil . Ar. Must I be didactick to initiate this Art ? Th. No Man ( than your Self ) knows it better . Ar. If so , you must arm your self for Angling Encounters ; for I best approve of a resolute Combitant , whose Conduct and Courage equally strive against all vicissitude of Fortune ; and smiles when at the precipice of Danger . Such a Man bears the triumphant Standard of Constancy in all Difficulties , and doubtful Uncertainties ? Th. Are Lectures to be read in Features ? Ar. Are Lovers by Sympathy capable to feel those amorous Flames , that scorch their Hearts in each other's Breast ? Th. If that Axiom be true , my Breast has burnt long enough . Ar. With what ? Th. It may be with Passion . Ar. And it may be with Suspicion . Th. Let all Suspicion ( and the Nature of it ) be for ever suspended . Ar. If that be your Resolution , give me your Prospect . Th. The flourishing Fields , and the plentiful Streams in Scotland . Ar. Shall we ramble the Highlands ? Th. Ay and the Lowlands too , for I l'e hazard my Fortunes with my Friend , and share in his Adventures . Ar. Is that your Resolution ? Th. Yes , that 's my resolve ; I must confess I had rather go than stay . Ar. Stay then , and I l'e go with you . Theoph. Why now I 'm answer'd , Doubts can have an end ; And so have mine , since lodg'd in such a Friend To Nature , human Learning , Sense and Reason ; Compounds of purest Peace ; no Plot , nor Treason Harbours in that calm Breast , where Art and Science Bud up like Twins , and bid a bold Defiance T' Ignorance and Prophaneness : let thy Lot Be what it will , and see if mine be not The same adjusted : know that I can bear The hazard of my Fortunes any where To vie Arnoldus ; if Arnoldus lay Commands on him that 's ready to obey . Ar. This looks somewhat like a Foreign Doctrine . Th. However you 'l find it an innate Principle . Ar. If so , then we run but one single Risque ; which of necessity will incorporate us in one single Adventurer : in order thereto , let us first dispatch Agrippa , whose Countermarch will very much advance our Progress . Th. That 's well consider'd , pray let it be so ; that without interruption we may ramble all Scotland . Ar. And the studious Art of Angling , must not we make that our employment ? Th. Yes sure , but how must we accommodate our selves with Rods , and other convenient Manuals and Instruments , whereby to pursue this mysterious Art ? Ar. Trouble not your self with that little Affair ; Here , Agrippa , take you these Letters , and sweeten your Rhetorick with returns of Arnoldus , so oft as enquired for by my dear Constantia . Agrip. Can the Tides forget their natural Course ? I 'le court Sun and Moon to sprinkle the Tracts with propitious Beams , to return me prosperous . Ar. But when you approach those harmonious Ports where Constantia dwells , be well advis'd what you say or express ; let not one Word slip that may cause a Tear ; for if one Star falls , all the Heavens lowre . Th. And remember me ( honest Agrippa ) to the Vertuoso's in Nottingham ; together with the generous Society of Anglers , that traverse the fragrant Banks of those silver silent and murmuring Streams of the famous Trent . Ar. Near whose cultivated Shores , and florid Medows , shines the Life of my Life in the constant Breast of my dear Constantia . Agrip. I 'le observe your Punctims , and pay your Respects . Ar. Do so . Th. Agrippa , farewel , and forget not Theophilus , who petitions their Welfare , and thy prosperous Journey . Agrip. Heavens influence your Designs . Ar. Now he is gone ( nor will he be long in going ) in the mean time let us contemplate the beauteous Creation , and retire to those solitary Rocks to defend us from the radient and refulgent Beams of the Sun , that direct their Strokes upon us ; such Retirements will moderate Extreams : afterwards we may stretch our Limbs to encounter our Recreation , and sport our selves with the princely Trout , in the flourishing Rivers and Rivulets in Scotland , which probably may contribute as much Satisfaction , as any other Rivers in the Promontories of great Britain , if dextrously examined , and industriously managed with Patience , and other Requisites , sutable and agreeable to the Methods of Art. We may also in our Progress , as we travel the Country , take a Survey of their Towns , Forts and Fortresses ; the like we may do of their Cities , Castles and Ciradels ; with their Rivers , Rivulets , and solitary Loughs ; which will furnish us with Fish enough , provided we can furnish our selves with Baits . But to furnish every Angler with a new Bait , was the studious Invention of Isaac Walton , Author ( as you may read ) of the Compleat Angler , who industriously has taken care to provide a good Cook , ( supposing his Wife had a Finger in the Py ) which will necessarily be wanting in our Northern Expedition ; where the Fry are numerous , ( nay numberless almost ) in some of those Rapid and Trembling Streams ; from whence the Artificial Fly ( if that Exercise be well understood ) will contribute as much as any thing , to court them ashore , and sweeten our Recreation . But I speak more peculiarly to ingenious Artists , not to those flegmetick Fellows indigent of Art ; such only I allot an accidental Fate . Th. Methinks I grow impatient to attempt these silver Streams with our harmless Artillery ; here needs no Auxiliary force to guard our Approaches , when only to trample these delicious , pleasant and fragrant Banks , enameled with Flowers , and green Coverings , where every chrystal purling Stream is overshadowed with a stately Fir-tree , or some spreading Sycomore ; through which Zephyrus inspires a softned breath of Air to curl the Surface of the milder Streams , and where the glittering Shores shine like Peru , or the golden Sands of the admired Tagus , as if purposely erected for a Tomb or Sepulchre , therein to inter the generous Trout ; which is the Anglers Trophies , and the ultimate Period of Art. Reach me that Rod , Arnoldus , and furnish me with Tackle to try my Fortune . Are these Flies proper , and sutable to the Season ? Is the Line tapred , and the Rod rush-grown ? Every thing answers to promise Success , and now have amongst them ; for I resolve beyond dispute to approve my self an Angler , or shame the Art. Ar. An Angler ; an Allegator rather , to rush so rudely upon a River , and forget your Rudiments . Th. My passionate Zeal hurried on by Avarice , confirm'd the difficulty of catching Fish , no more , than a cast of my Fly to summon them ashore . Ar. That wou'd excuse your over-forwardness , to put a force upon your Exercise ; the Anglers Direction and the Mediums of Art , are the Pole-Star you must steer by . Th. You do well to reckon up my Errors , and lay down Rudiments to oblige me to reform : all that I sollicite , is to be Master of my Exercise ; that Theory and Practice be made legible and intelligible ; Nature then will demonstrate her self obvious to the Artist . Ar. You have hit the Mark , it 's true what you say : Art at the best is but Nature's Imitation ; Instructions made legible , gratify the Ingenious , whilest the Ignorant read but Lectures in their ABC . Th. Then I need not despair ; however as I 'am solicitous after the Secrets of the Art , direct me how to flourish a Fly in a torpid deep and melancholy Water ; such as this is . Ar. Stand close be sure , that 's your first Caution ; and appear least in sight , that 's your second Direction ; and dibble lightly on the Surface of the Water , that 's your third and final Instruction : now order and manage the Affair as well as you can . Th. So I will ; and fancy that a City is more than half conquered , where Resolution has got footing in the Besiegers Camp. Ar. From your Inference , I must conclude , that confident Theophilus will approve himself an Artist , because he 's so forward in the Art of Angling . Th. I 'le observe the Anglers Axioms . Ar. So you must , if you intend to be an Artist ; but how will you flourish a Fly in that solitary Water , whereby to compleat your self Lord of your own Exercise ? consider it seriously . In the next place , you must mind the Season of the Year . Small Rains , fair Weather , and intermittent Sun-shine , all these contribute to your Entertainment ; but Snow-broth , and Storms , stand in opposition to your Recreation . You must also observe , the Wrack of Clouds , and the hovering Winds that curl the Streams ; these Circumstances judicially observed , an ordinary Artist may kill a Trout , provided he purdue himself at a reasonable distance . But what must be done when the Air is undisturbed , nor the least breath of Wind to fan the Sholes ? Can you then kill a Fish to recompence your Labour , and sweeten your Toil ? Come , lend me your Rod , and I 'le hazard my Skill to puzzle the Art , or lay a Trout in your Lap. Th. That 's as much as to say , you will give me Handsel . Ar. And I do but little , if I do not do that . Observe that Bush , whose slender Branches wantonly dangle , sporting themselves on the Cusp of the Water : there 's no Stream you may observe , nor any thing of Motion , nor the least breath of Air to invade the Calms . Put case I kill a Trout from that silent Surface , what will you think on 't ? Th. I 'le think you an Artist . Ar. When ? Th. When I see your success . Ar. Have amongst them then — : Now there 's what I promised you . Th. And I 'le promise you , you are a Man of your Word . Ar. I seldom use to be less . Th. And I 'le never desire to be more . But one thing I observe , and that 's very remarkable : why so circumspect in making your Approaches , when accosting the River , as an Engineer approaches a Fortification ? Ar. There 's Reason for that I do . Th. Then there 's Reason you resolve me what I shall do , since Trouts are so difficult to deal with . Ar. You will tell me more ( I question not ) when you come to examine them . Th. And that won't be long if I have my liking . But what an admirable Fish is the Trout for Shape , Beauty and Proportion ? Ar. Such is the Char ; next to him the Umbar . Th. And are they of as much Agility of Body ? Ar. In every respect . Th. Of necessity then they must be excellent Companions to consort with the Angler , whiles the Miser and Avaricious hugs his Bags , the Epicure his luxurious voracious Appetite , and the wretched and covetous Angler his Paunch and Pannier . Let Art , Industry and Experience gratify the Artist . But as Fortune favours you in your second Adventure , such are my resolves to magnify the Art. Ar. You do well I perceive , to do nothing rashly . Th. And you do it better , by doing on 't advisedly . Ar. Then have at all ; and I think I have him , look how he leaps and struggles for Life ; but this prognosticks a Sign of Death : for when the Swan sings his own Funeral-Epitaph , which of the Family of Birds join in Consort with him ? so when the Trout dances Coranto's to the Angler ; what but the Line rings his Funeral Passing-peal ? Now see how he lies gasping for Breath , though every Breath of Air is as bad as Opium ; and laments his Misfortune to be so unfortunate , because not to live out half his Time ; where every Cheque of the Line challengeth Death , and sends him a Summons to prepare for the Pannier . So that you see he is no sooner deprived of natural Strength , but submits himself to the fatal doom of the Angler , who assures him no better Quarter than Death . Are not these terrible Arguments to terrify the Fish out of his Element ? who whilest he endeavours to evade the Angler , falls foul upon the Art with equal Hazard ; and designing Flight , pursues the Pursuer : so struggles with the Artist to cheat his Appetite , by proffering his Life for a silly Fly. By this you may see it 's not difficult to court him , when with little difficulty he comes to Hand , nay to his Grave , meerly for a mouthful ; for this simple Novelty cost him his Life . And what was it think you ? only a Fly of another Figure , and of a different Complexion ; the one Artificial , but this was Natural , and there he lies naturally devoted yours , not daring to petition his Judg's Reprieve . Where note , for your encouragement , I present you with my Conquest ; and dedicate both my Practice and Experience to your self , purposing perhaps a farther Examination . For since to find Fish so prodigal as to meet me half way , what cause have I to doubt of carrying them to their Journey 's end ? Th. Here 's lucky Handsel for a young Beginner . Ar. And you are that young Beginner ; pray accept of Handsel . Th. Thanks , Arnoldus , if Thanks be Argument good enough to retaliate your Bounty . But what must we think of those hovering Clouds ? Ar. I think they 'l bring us Summons of Night , otherways I am loth to relinquish these pleasant Streams , that divert the Angler with such profitable Entertainments . Th. If the Night approach , it 's time to withdraw ; but to withdraw from such sweet Diversion goes against the Grain . Eden , farewel . Nay I 'le repeat it twice ; Farewel , Eden . With what reluctancy do I relinquish thy Smiling Fords , though to solace my self in the Fortress of Carlisle . Ar. You are shrewdly hurt . Will Refreshment incommode you after the Toils of Recreation ? and your observation of this late Encounter invalidate the Art ? Ingenuously tell me , what your Observation directs to ? Th. This I observ'd worthy my Observation , that it was a Field fairly fought , but I cannot say without loss of Life . Ar. And I declare it a Conquest of an easy Purchase , where Arms and Artillery ( the Rod excepted ) amounts not to Sixpence . Th. Was it six Shillings , what a Purchase is that to experience Art , and tantalize Fish ? What 's the single hazard of a Hook and Line , ( a valuable considerable Loss indeed ) to lose the Value of Two pence , to purchase a Fish worth Ten pence ? Pray what is it more than earnesting the River with a Hook and Line , to stem the Adventure ? which I value not a Rush , was every Hair a Thread of Gold , and the barbed Hook of superfine Silver ; I 'd expose the Worth on 't for the Fin of a Fish. Ar. This Resolution surmounts the Adventure . Th. Besides all this : here 's another Observation , well worthy our own and the Angler's consideration ; and that is , our Labour and Travel : it 's no more than a Walk to trample the deliciated and cultivated Fields , on the fragrant Banks that bridle the meandring Streams . O who would not solicite Patience to crown such charming Rewards , intail'd upon Anglers , in their solitary Recreations ? Instruct me , dear Arnoldus , in this liberal Art , and ingenuously tell me how you took these Trouts . Ar. With nothing , upon Reputation , but a natural Fly , which I suddenly snatch'd from that slender Twig : For if you remember my turning to that Bush , I mean that Hawthorn that flourishes behind you ; there it was I discovered some Insects , which properly to consult , are as truculent as Death , more especially in the Ides of April and May. It was only with Dracks that I kill'd these Trouts ; nor is there any Bait that excels it at the Tail of a Bush , or the Brow of a Bank , provided always you appear least in sight ; dibble but lightly on the Surface of the Calms , you infallibly raise him ; and the better to secure him , stand but close , and you certainly kill him . Th. This plain Discovery speaks both Theory and Practice . Such Instructions as these ( except to an indigent Artist ) will indisputably compleat him an Angler in an instant . Ar. Come then , if you please , let us lap up our Lines , and trace these pleasant Fields to the Town of Carlisle , where we may refresh our selves with the Country Curiosities . Th. I think it very good and wholsome Advice , to comply with your Motion for a Modicum : For when the Water with Exercise extimulates our Stomachs , I fancy Diet will relish better than Discourse ; and when we have closed-up the Orifice of our Appetites , clean Linen I fancy will be very acceptable . The for the Morning-Watch , trust to my Diligence , for I 'll rise with the Sun , or it may be before Day , to be in a readiness to survey this ancient City , Citadel , Castle , Cathedral , Ports , Vanports , Curtains , Counterscarps , Bastions , Redoubts , &c. of all which I purpose a brief Description , and that you may expect before our Departure . Ar. You direct good Measures ; but let me first advise you to observe Access , Situation and Strength , the Complement and Resolution of their Armed Men ; their Arms also , Ammunition and Artillery ; what stock of Provisions is stored in their Providors ; and whether Nature or Art challenges the Superiority in her Fortifications . This is part of the Task you impose upon your self ; and by Noon be in readiness for our Departure ; about which time ( if I calculate right ) the Tide will commode us for our Northern Passage over the trembling tottering Sands . In the mean time , let not the Night nor our Sleep invade us , nor our Watchings slide into wanton Embracements : For the Watchman of the Night will declare against such , and a Serpent conceal'd in the Secrets of Conscience , shall gnaw and devour our Habitations with our selves . Th. Vainly and profusely to lavish Time , we but flatter our selves with sordid Delusions , that vanish if but touch'd by the cold icy Finger of Death . How in a trice Honours become fugitive before us ; and Mortality in a moment incorporates with the Grave ; Tissues and Orris Hangings become a Prey to the Moth ; and polish'd Pavements of Jasper , with those others of Marble , how quickly Time translates them into Tombstones : Nay , those Delicacies and Viands that surprized the Palat , are by this also converted into nauseous Excrements . So that upon the whole , this Elementary Composition in conclusion results in Dust and Ashes . Ar. It 's very true : for did Man but consider the Instability of Transitory Enjoyments , he might read himself more miserable in living than dying ; but there is a State ( tho unknown to the Ignorant ) that is too great and glorious for Mortals to purchase : but Christ hath already done that for inglorious Man , whose longest Progress of Life on the Stage of this World , is no more than a Dream to the length of Eternity . Th. Now the fair Star Aurora springs upon us , I must be stirring , Arnoldus ; you know I have set my self a Task to survey this City and Fortress of Carlisle , which I purpose to describe . Ar. That will be time enough about Noon . Th. And it may be I can do it now as well . Ar. Come then , let us have it ; I see you 're in haste . Th. Carlisle , I have considered it but a little City , a little Observation therefore shall serve to describe it . However , it 's a Fortification ( that 's true ) tho it stands in a Nook , or more properly to call it a Corner of England , whose Foundations are Rocky , and surrounded with a Stone Wall. At the South Entrance you may observe a small Citadel fronted with Stone , and such are the Houses of the same Material ; nor are they much elevated into the Air , where the Battlements are seen above the Houses , which argues the Wall a serviceable Defence . In the midst of the Market-place they parade their Guards : And at the North-west End of the City stands their Castle ( strong and formidable ) upon whose bulky Battlements several Pieces of Cannon are planted , to scatter Fury in every Quarter . There is also a Cathedral situated South from the Bastions of the Castle , worthy any Man's Description , were it not so torn to Tatters that there 's little to describe , which only serves now as a Monument to gaze at , because impoverish'd by the strokes of Time. But the Ports , and sally Ports of this Northern Fortress are girt about with Rocky Stone ; and the Wash of Eden bathe some of her Sconces ; that River I mean where Arnoldus fish'd when he slew the Trouts . Ar. It 's very true , the River Eden floats near the Skirts , and the Fortifications of Carlisle . But then you must consider there 's another River , commonly known by the Name of Annon , ( of a more rapid Motion , and more resolute Streams ) which issues from the famous Top of Erricsteen , not far from as famous a Mountain called Tintaw . This Annon glides along the Southern Marshes of Scotland , which afterwards espouseth with the Ocean Westward , and gives Name to a Dale , commonly called Annon's Dale . But there 's another River the Natives call Ask , which juts just upon Annon , on the Scotish Promontories , so tumbles into the Sea at N. Nor-West , as near as I can guess at the quaking Sands . Th. Pray give us that Relation ? Ar. I remember on a time as I travelled these Parts , to Admiration I saw two thousand Horse , all advance in Divisions over those silly Shores , which so prest and deprest the tottering Surface , that not till then , nor before , I had ever seen Sands shap'd into Vallies , then again into Mountains ; nay , such prodigious over-grown Mountains as almost amaz'd me : because when to behold from such palpable Levels , Mountains as it were rais'd up in a moment ; and in the twinkling of an Eye , all melted into Vallies . And the nearer the Bodies approached one another , the farther they seemed to be asunder . So that upon the matter the Advance of this Brigade , was little more than to make new Hills , and depress and sink them again into Dales . So that looking behind me when discharging the Fords , there was nothing remaining but Sea and Sand , chequer'd as it were parte perpale . This is the first of our Northern Wonders , and the Rarity is almost beyond Belief , were it not so commonly experienced by almost every Traveller that travels these Northern remote Parts : otherwise it might render me ridiculous to report it , and look too fabulous to gain a Reputation . But he that has beheld this admirable Prospect will credit my Relation , whilst the more ignorant and prejudicate suspend their Censures . Th. And must we adventure to attempt these tottering Sands ? Ar. Yes , indisputably we must . Th. In my Opinion then it 's requisite we summons a Guide . Ar. That 's well considered , for there 's no passing without one . Th. So ho , Iockey . Servus . Wha's there ? Th. Here 's one or two that want a good Guide to pilot us over these sinking Sands . Servus . I se come belive . Ar. Prethee come now , and direct us over these quaking Sands . Serv. Marry sall I , I se be your Guide I tro , to speeroot the bliethest and the bonnyest Gate I con : haud a Plack , I se but fet my Spere and Cutrements , whelk in guid fa I may not won without . Ar. Then take 'em with you . Serv. Marry sall I , sa that now and then as I gang by the Gat , gif the Bourn be clear , and I se pre a guid blink ; I se wap a Samon ore the Crage I tro , than with a Grip ore his Luggs we my ene hand ; I tro I se hold him a bit , an for au his struggle , I se mar his march to Sea any mare . Come ben me Joes , and won awaugh ; span y ar Groond ore this silly Bourn , I se pre it , and prieve it ; it 's guid enogh , come awaw , follo me now . Whelk way won ye , ken ye I tro ? Guid fa Sirs , y ar misleard , won away thick way , mare and mare yet to thick hond : For an the quick Sands get a grip au yor Nagg's shakle Bene , gude far Sirs hee l womble doun the bourn ; an what au ye then ? but au's wee l enof now ; for now ye treed on bonny Scotish Grond . Th. I know not what Ground it is , nor what to call it ; but this I know , that I 'm glad we can welcome our selves on this side Danger . What think you , Arnoldus , have not we made an eminent Exchange , to truck a Southern Rose for a Northern Thistle ? Farewel old England , I shall venerate thy Memory , and thy fertile Medows , and never forget thy florid Fields that glut the Sithe , nor thy fragrant Gardens that perfume the Air. Ar. And welcome Scotland , I say ; for this Night I purpose to lodg in Dumfreez ; but who must carry our Impliments and our Fish ? Th. Let us catch 'em first , and then consider their Portage . Ar. That 's but little difficult to do , where every Field is accommodated with Rivulets , and every Rivulet furnished with Trouts , as we travel along this mountainous Coast of Galloway : Look but before you , and view those Ports ; such are the Entrances into the Decays of Dumfreez , whose Situation and Buildings bespeak it spacious , and a Town that will furnish us with Fish and Flesh ; where we may stay till to Morrow , and solace our selves with her flourishing Streams ; whose lofty Banks barrocade the beautiful Pontus Arnotus , a pleasant portable River below the Situation of the Town ( unplundered of Exercise ) that will recreate and recruit us with Fish enough , if the Season but serve to experiment the Art. Th. I approve very well of your Motion , but a Modicum first will be very seasonable . Let us summons the Cook to know what he 's got in the Kitchin ; and give Charge to the Chamber-Maid ( if there be such a thing in Scotland ) to take care that the Windows be deck'd and adorn'd with Flowers , whilst the Boards and Floors are strewed with Greens : For I 'll examine every Thread in our Beds , to see if they be cleanly wash'd , and throughly dried , the better to accommodate us in our Northern Expedition . Ar. Do so , and I resolve in the Morning to examine your Breviate of the various Particulars of this Night's Entertainment , how you approv'd of your Lodging , with the memorable Apprehensions of England in Scotland . The Sauce also , you must tell how that savoured ; and the rest of your Delicates , how they digested ; together with your Linen , how richly perfumed . Th. Were not Complaint a ridiculous Orator , I would tell you the Mutton was small , but good ; but Cookery I perswade my self never worse contriv'd : And the Linen was sweet , and clean enough , of a modest Complexion , but not Lavender-proof : Then for their Pewter ( the like was never seen ) it was tarnish'd with nothing but a Face of Lead . The Beds I confess were soft enough , and if I don't mistake my self , short enough : Yet every Angler may without difficulty resolve how sweetly Rest relishes after Recreation ; and how grateful Solace seems after good Success . Shall we spread the Water this Morning with our angling Artillery , and examine the Fords before we feast our selves ? Resolve this Morning's Exercise my Benevolence , only stand by and furnish me with Directions . Ar. Your Motion inclines me to promote the Adventure , and the rather because to introduct you into the Anglers Society . Hold forth your Hand and grasp this Rod , take also this Box , and this dubbing Bag of Flies , and select a Choice . The Complextion of the Water must also be considered ; and Depths and Shallows are necessary Observations . But above all , mind carefully the Clifts of those craggy Rocks , from whence you must expect the head of your Game , if you angle for Trout . And be circumspect and cautious when and how you strike , lest peradventure Passion provoke your Discretion , so indanger the loss of what you labour for . Th. These are Soveraign Admonitions . Ar. Mind therefore your Directions , and fish like an Artist ; for here if your Line but reach the Water , you raise a Trout , or it may be a Salmon . Where note , if you be indigent of this generous Art , and unskilful to manage so eminent an Encounter ; perchance you 'l sacrifice your Labours to loss , so in conclusion lose your Reputation . Th. I shall be mindful of that . Ar. Then direct your Eye to those bubbling Streams , at whose murmuring Descents are most profound Deeps . But then again there 's Cataracts , and falls of Water ; from whose fair Invitations neither doubt nor despair of Incomparable Entertainments . That 's the Sirenes Seat of Trophies , where Trouts tumble up and down for Diversion : don't you see them pick , and cast themselves on the Surface of the Streams , amongst those knotty stumpy Rocks , almost drown'd in Water ? Lay but your Line in at the tail of that Stream , where it 's sheltred with craggy rocky Stones , and manage your Game with Art and Discretion , I 'le uphold you sport enough ; but be circumspect ( be sure ) and look well to your Line , lest peradventure your Tackle be torn to pieces . Th. Doubt not of my Care and Circumspection . Ar. Then take your Lot , and cast in your Line ; and flourish your Fly , for it 's dub'd with Bears Hair ; and the Point of your Hook , it 's so snug and so sharp , that , as it ought , it must always hang downward . Moreover , it 's proportioned of an excellent Compass , wing'd also with the dapple Feather of a Teal ; a dangerous Novel to invite a desperate Fish ; and sutable to the Day and Season , in regard it 's bright . Th. Why thus to capitulate ? let us in amongst them . Ar. Two words to a Bargain ; be better advised . Th. It 's past that now , and I 'm past my Senses , to feel such Trepidations on a sudden invade me ; What 's the matter with me that I 'm thus out of Order ? Ar. I perceive you disordred , but not much deliciated . Th. If I were , it 's folly to complain , when past all hope to expect redress . Ar. How know you that ? Th. I know you won't tell me what it is that tugs thus . Ar. It may be a Trout ; or it may be a Salmon . Th. Or it may be both , for ought I know ; for it 's almost impossible that one single Fish should raise the Water to such Eruptions . Ar. And impossible for you ( I perceive ) to reclaim him . Th. Do but resolve me what it is , and then I 'le resolve my self what to do . Ar. Make your own choice , what would you have it ? Th. I would have it a Fish. Ar. So it is ; and it may be a Fish of the largest size : therefore look well about you . Th. I may look which way I will , and despair at last ; what makes the Water swell with Ebullitions ? Ar. Nothing I suppose but a change of Elements , the Fish has no mind to come a Shore . Th. And I have as little inclination to go to fetch him . Ar. Then were your Hazards equal ; and hitherto as I apprehend , you have much the Odds. Th. Odd or Even , I know not how to manage him . Ar. Would you put a force upon Neptune , to compel his Subjects a Shore ? Th. Had I Skill enough , I would certainly do it . Ar. So I perceive ; but you 'r almost now at a stand ; Pull . Th. On the other hand he strives to pull all in pieces ; which he will certainly do , if I do not reclaim him . But where is he now ? Ar. Gone to the bottom , it may be . Th. And it may be I begin to smell the Plot ; he courts the Deeps for Self-security . Ar. Then you fancy the Streams won't protect him ; because there 's no Plot in them . Th. Plots for the most part you know lie deepest ; so he sinks to the Bottom for Self-preservation , and creeps to Death as if of old Acquaintance . Ar. Rash Results reap Repentance : mistake not your self by dooming his Death ; he 's but slipt to the Bottom to recruit himself , and indenture with Stones to oblige their Protection . Th. What must we have now another Vagary ? Is my Scaly Companion surrounded and compounded of nothing but Frolicks ? which for ought I know may cost him his Life , if he is not mindful to look to his Hitts . Ar. And you must be advised to look well to yours ; for he 'l not come a Shore to beg his Life . Stand fast therefore , and call to mind your former Rudiments ; for trust me I shall give you no other Supply than some friendly Admonishments to reconcile you together . Th. What , no Directions ; nor any farther Instructions ? Ar. If two to one be odds at Football , and against the Rules and Law of fair Play , the very Thoughts on 't would make me blush , and appear shamefac'd , if but to think two Anglers should at once consult together to encounter one Fish. Th. Then I 'le fight him my self , and run my own Destiny . See where he comes tumbling and tossing , and volting himself in the stiffest Streams . Can no Element contain his active Violence ? Will he twist his Tail to cut my Line for an Experiment ? But this kind of cunning may perchance defeat him ; he may prick his Chaps , and yet miss my Bait. Ar. And you may miss him , that won't stand upon a Trifle . Th. A Trifle did you say ? I 'le trifle him no longer . Ha Boys ! he 's gone again . Ar. I suppose he 's gone where you can't come at him ; and that 's to the Bottom for another Insurrection . Th. So it appears , for he 's invisible in a Moment . This is a kind of Hocus pocus : Surely I fancy he has out liv'd his Time. Ar. Flatter not your self with that fly-blown Opinion ; for I 'm apt to perswade my self he 'l live beyond the Art of your Exercise ; this I know and perceive by his working , that if you work not wisely , he 'l work a Reprieve . Th. Then I 'le work with him , and trifle him a Shore , to examine the Point , and exchange of Elements . I see he 's convulst by fluttering his Fins ; and I 'm sure he 's half dead by rigling his Tail ; nay , more than that , he lies still without Motion : And are not all these mortal Signs of Submission ? Ar. And if he submits , he dies without Redemption : and Death you know is a total Submission . Th. I 'le kill this Fish , or forfeit my Reputation . Ar. Take your Chance , for I know you are resolute . Th. I 'le take my Chance , and return Victorious . Ar. But there 's no Triumph you know , till possest of the Trophies . Th. And I am pretty near them , was it not that one or two Stratagems strangely amuse me ; the one of them is the casting himself on the Surface , as if designing thereby to cut my Line ; and the other his fastning himself in the Bottom , thinking , as I apprehend , to tear all in pieces ; which if he do , I lose my Reputation : besides I grow weary , and would fain horse him out . Ar. You may do what you please , you are Lord of your own Exercise ; the Law is in your Hand , manage it with discretion . Th. I 'le manage it with all the industry I have . Ar. Do so , and you will see the Event . Th. Then have at all . Ar. And what have you got ? Th. I have got nothing but the Foot-steps of Folly. Ar. And Nothing out of Nothing is Folly in the abstract ; was not I Prophetick ? Th. An Oracle too true to confirm my Loss ; for what have I left ? nothing but Folly , to lament and condole this fatal Conclusion : to be rob'd by a Fish that I reckoned my Reward ; Is not this Felony , to steal my Tackle , and ruin an Angler ? but he 's mark'd for my own , and let whose will take him , I 'le challenge an Interest . Ar. That 's very pleasant ; when another has catch'd him , you 'l put in your Claim . Th. So I will , where-e're I find him ; for his Marks I am sure will certainly betray him . Ar. As if he wore your Livery to no other purpose than to describe his Servitude . Th. So he does ; for my Hook I am sure hangs still in his Chaps , and part of my Line is entailed to it . Ar. I thought all along what it would come to , for I knew well enough there was nothing wanting but the exercise of Patience to kill this Fish. Th. What would you have done had it been your Case ? Ar. I would not have handled my Play-fellow so rudely . Th. What! you rather laugh at me , than pity my Loss . Ar. I pity the Fish to feed upon such sharp Commons . Th. Peradventure the Hook may go near to choak him . Ar. That it will never do , nor hardly check him upon a fresh Entertainment . Th. Why so ; will the Hook remain in his Chaps without Detriment to the Fish ? Ar. Some small Season it may remain ; but Time and Action soon discharges it . For if when to consider his frequent Motion , his continual gliding and glancing against Stones , it loosens the part without Detriment to the Fish , so that the Hook of it self leisurely drops off . Th. How comes this to pass ? it's incredibly strange . Ar. Yet not so strange as true that you have lost a Line , as compleat a Line as Art could proportion : it 's well you kept your Rod , for I 'le assure you it 's exactly taper'd ; and as streight and plient as ever flourish'd a Fly to facilitate Death by D●xterity . But this artificial Novel you lost but now , gives no more satisfaction to a voracious Appetite , than a Witch's Banquet ; or the unlimited Desires of a wretched Usurer , who never desists the pursuit of Riches , till tantaliz'd , like your Game , to Death with a Trifle . And now Theophilus , I must reprove your Precipitancy , because a great Error in young Anglers . Patience must be moderated to promote the Art , and Time procrastinated to proclaim the Angler an Artist . These Precepts I have laid down oftner than once , always provided your Swim be clear , your Line long , and strong enough ; then shall you see the Fruits of your Labour , and the Fish himself act the part of a Felon , that puts a Knife to his own Throat , wherewith he secretly murders himself : and that this Desperado had certainly done , upon exchange of Elements , so become his own Executioner ; who beyond dispute had struggled to strangle himself ; which without difficulty is easily and the more expeditiously done , by frequently but cautiously exposing him to Air ; for that suffocates his Vitals , whereby he necessarily falls under very fatal Cons●quents . And how little a thing blots out the Character of Life , every one knows , that knows Air is as Opium to force a sleepy Pulse ; that deprives of Motion , and makes passage for Death . Be mindful therefore to observe Directions in handling and managing your Rod and Line , and cautiously keeping your self out of sight : all which Precautions are requisite Accomplishments , which of necessity ought to be understood by every ingenious Angler . And so is that secret Art of Striking , which ought never at any time to be used with Violence ; because with a moderate Touch , and a slender proportion of Strength , the Artist for the most part has best Success . Another Caution you must take along with you ; and that is , when you observe your Game begins to make an out ; that is , when he bolts , or when he launcheth himself forth to the utmost extent of your Rod and Line , which a well-fed Fish at all times frequently attempts , upon the least Advantage he gains on the Angler : be mindful therefore to throw him Line enough , if provided you purpose to see his Destruction ; yet with this Caution , that you be not too liberal . On the other hand , too streight a Line brings equal Hazard ; so that to poize your Fish , and your fore-sight together , is , by keeping one Eye at the Point of your Rod , and the other be sure you direct on your Game : which comes nearest the Mediums of Art , and the Rules and Rudiments of your precedent Directions . But this great Wound is easily solv'd ; for if when to discover your Fish fag his Fins , you may rationally conclude he then struggles with Death : and then is your time to trifle him a Shore on some smooth Shelf of Sand , where you may boldly land him , before his Scales encounter the Soil ; which he no sooner apprehends by the prospect of Death approaching ; as a dying Man that grasps every Twig , because thinking thereby to save himself ; so will your Game extinguish his Strength , and blaze out the Flames of his Life with a Struggle . Another Expedient is the landing-Net ; or the Landing-Rod , which I rather approve of : let the Swim be deep , or let it be shallow , we direct this Artifice to amuse the Fish , and facilitate his Destruction , when he struggles with Difficulties : Notwithstanding all this , some Hazards must be encountred , by the more Ingenious that flies high at his Game . Incomparable Sport the Salmon makes ; and so did this , for he made me laugh . Th. Why so severe to run at my Misfortune ? take the Rod if you please , and display your Skill , I 'le defy all your Art to discover such a Fish ; though unfortunate I must confess , to hazard my Reputation , with such ill Success ; whereby to lose such an eminent Encounter : but I am come to that point of Resolution now , that Fish that comes next but to smell my Hook , shall prize the Scent on 't so long as he lives ; where an Inch of my Line shall cost him an Ell of his Life ; though he attempts to saw my Line in sunder , with the ragged and jagged Teeth of his Tail. Ar. And is this the Earnest you intend to handsel us with ? Such a small Stock of Experience will neither admit of general nor particular Directions to instruct and initiate Proficients in the Art , to try their skill with a resolute Fish. Reach hither your Rod , and that Bag of Flies . Now should Fortune contribute equal Success , we need not despair of a hungry Breakfast : however , I 'le adventure , and have in amongst 'em ; Did you see him show ? Th. Yes , yes , I see something make a Show ; and it may be Fish. Ar. What a Fish with an it , and a may be too ? stand close , I advise you , for he 'l rise again , provided as hitherto he has made no discovery . Th. What then , will you discipline and teach him the Art of Invasion ? Ar. I 'le teach him to know that if one Element won't contain him , another must ; so , so , I have him fast enough to distinguish the difference . And now for the Landing-Rod to measure his Dimensions . See where he lies , and tell me how you like him ; can you think him as large as that you encountred ? Th. It 's no matter what I think ; it may be he 's Inferiour , or it may be Superiour . Ar. That 's modestly Ingenious , to lessen your Loss by advancing my Reputation . Th. And you more than fortunate to succeed so well : shall we lap up our Lines , and return to Dumfreez ? Ar. With all my Heart , for the Clock strikes Ten ; and the Sun is in his Elevation towards the Meridian . This is no time for farther examination , till about four after Noon ; except in an obscure and clowdy Day : for the Crisis and critical Time for Diversion , is late in the Evening , or early in the Morning . Th. It 's enough I perceive ; your generous Motion moves me to wave the present Recreation . On the other hand , your Experience I must confess promulges the Art , and your self an Artist . All this I grant , and more than this , since to confirm this Evidence quickens my Appetite . Ar. Ay , but what think you of the Wing of an Ox ? Would not such a Modicum melt sweetly in your Mouth ? Th. If luxurious Dreams , and Witches Banquets are equally alike impoverish'd Vanity ; then to contemplate England in the Bowels of Scotland will represent to us but fictitious Delusions . Rather would I have you tell me how you like the Commons , and tell me then how you approve the Cookery . Ar. I like it so well , that I could heartily wish it had been better ordered for your Entertainment ; but the difficulty is such in this Northern Latitude , that good Cooks and good Fish seldom dwell together . Th. Then let them dwell asunder ; however , it 's well it is as it is , better ill-cook'd than none at all . However , in the mean while reflect on your self , and give us a Description of the Town of Dumfreez . Ar. I fancy e're long you will change your Note , when you traverse these pleasant Northern Tracts . In the mean time I 'll gratify you with a Breviate of Dumfreez , where a Provost , as Superintendent , supplies the place of a Mayor ; a Magistrate almost as venerable as an English Constable . Th. That 's wittily applied ; What comes next ? Ar. Nay , hold a little , I have not done yet with the Eminencies and the Remarks of the Town of Dumfreez ; for you are to consider it was anciently a Town girt about with a strong Stone Wall : But the late Irruptions , or perhaps some State-Disagreement has in a manner defaced that regular Ornament ; otherwise the cankrous Teeth of Time have gnawn out the Impressions , as evidently appears by those ruinous Heaps . Nor is the Arnotus in all parts portable , notwithstanding her Shores are so delightful . Th. What is there more yet ? Pray go on . Ar. In the midst of the Town is their Market-place , and in the Centre of that stands their Tolbooth , round about which the Rabble sit , that nauseate the very Air with their tainted Breath , so perfum'd with Onions , that to an English-Man it is almost infectious . But the Kirk is comely , and situated South-ward , furnished once a Week with moveable Spectrums , ( you know what that means ) yet the Outside than the Inside is more eminently imbellished , if Sepulchres and Tombstones can be said to be Ornaments : And where Death and Time stand to guard the Steeple , whose Rings of Bells seldom or rarely exceed the critical Number of Three . Here also you may observe a large and spacious Bridg , that directly leads into the Country of Galloway , where thrice in a Week you shall rarely fail to see their Maid-Maukins dance Coranto's in Tubs . So on every Sunday some as seldom miss to make their Appearance on the Stool of Repentance . Th. Then it seems by your Relation they keep time with their Comers , that hazard their Reputation for a Country-Custom ( or the love of Liquor ) rather than omit a four-Hours drinking . Ar. That 's true enough ; and it 's an antient Practice among the Female Sex , to covee together ( about that time ) as naturally as Geese flock'd to the Capitol . Now the very Name of Comer they mightily honour ; but that of Gossip they utterly abominate , as they hate the Plague , or some mortal Contagion . So that whether to conclude it a vulgar Error , and an Abomination among the Scots to lick up an English Proverb , it matters not : Or whether to fancy a more laudable Emphasis in the word Comer , than there is in Go-sip ; I leave you to judg of that , and those other abominable Customs , that drink till they sigh to do Penance for their Sins . Will this expiate the Crime , and extenuate the Fact ? Th. Yes , when Oil quenches Fire ; or Fire forgets its natural force to burn . So let us leave Dumfreez , and accommodate our selves with the Country-Curiosities : and to make our Design yet more sweet and pleasant , let us rally what Descriptions of Places we can , not only to gratify our selves but others . In the mean time favour me with your bad Fortune of the Dish of Sewins , and the Duck Moggy drest , when she flung it into the Fire , to singe off the Feathers . Ar. Why thus to reflect on the Country-Absurdities ? Had you been then in place , distress'd as we were , I doubt not but that Duck had gone daintily down , notwithstanding you think it so sluttishly cook'd . Hunger at no time solicits Sauce to incite ; and Necessity as little as any thing disputes Dainties . The Landskip of Want invades natural Strength , and reads Lectures legibly in any Man's Features . But the manner of their Cookery , or rather Scotish Sluttery , I 'll tell you the Story , and how it was . Th. I shall be very attentive . Ar. Near the English Promontories stands the Town of Iedard , whose Skirts are wash'd by the famous Tweed . But Westward from thence ( and inclining yet more Norward ) are the remarkable Antiquities and Ruins of Boghall ; and not far from thence is the admirable Tintaw , a prodigious Mountain over-looking the Marshes . From whence , or from Erricsteen ( that 's not far from it ) there issue forth three eminent and considerable Rivers ; as that of the Tweed , Loyd , and the River Annon : But of these three Rivers we shall discourse more at large , as opportunity presents in its proper place . And now let 's advance to our Country Cottage , since compelled by the Extremity of Rain , and encreasing Waters . To which place when we arrived , like Men in amaze , we stood gazing at one another , because to see the Sheep grazing on the Tops of those Houses , where there was hardly Grass enough to graze a Goose in . By this you may conclude their Buildings but low , and I 'm sure their Doors and Entrances were so strait , that they exercised our Strength beyond our Art. Archimedes Engines signified but little , till the Souldiers set their Shoulders to support the Eves by which means the Horse got an Entrance in : and that Horseman that was not throughly wet , was doom'd that Night to go Supper-less to Bed. Thus in a Storm we stormed the Town , and 't would make a Man storm to be treated only with Oatmeal , of which we made Cakes ; for every Souldier became a Baker ; and the Flesh-meat they procured us was drest without Slaughter ; for none we had except my Duck ( you formerly discours'd ) so that most of us roosted with an empty Appetite : and every Man that went that Night to Bed , was sufficiently alarum'd before it was Day . Oat-straw was our Sheets , and Port-mantles our Pillows . It 's true , some had Cloaks , and 't was well they had them , otherwise they had been constrained to use Plads ; and he that used one but to cover his Carcass , mustred ( I uphold him ) more gray Coats than black Coats , that claw'd him more perniciously than a Middlesex Bailiff . The next Day we recruited with some Country Ale , but so thick and roapy it was , that you might eat it with Spoons . Besides , some small quantity of Mutton was brought us , enough to discover the Cookery of the Country : and the Linen they supplied us with , were it not to boast of , was little or nothing different from those Female Complexions that never washed their Faces , to retain their Christendom . But among the rest I had almost forgot to remind you , that the Souldiers and the People were jointly agreed to part without the loss of one Tear in the Morning . Th. I hope not to see , nor would I willingly dream of such bad Commons , a hungry Belly , and nothing to bite on ; nay , worse than that , more Sluts than Cooks : and in every House fowl Women , fowl Linen and fowl Pewter ; yet in their Rivulets such Silver Streams . What , not a Bed , nor a Thread ( but linsey lowsy ) to keep a Man dry ! who could project or contrive worse Entertainment for the worst of his Enemies ? Ar. Why , how now , Theophilus , is it that time of day ? he 's an early Angler that angles by Moonshine . Th. Mistake not your self , I 'm only groping for Baits ; it may be I purpose to angle early . Ar. Who questions it , when you catch 'em so fast before Sun-rise , what will you do when it's break of Day ? Th. O , Arnoldus , I 'm almost worried to death with Lice , my Skin is all motled and dapled like an April Trout . Can you blame me to relinquish this lowsy Lodging , when my batter'd Sides are pinck'd full of Ilet-holes ? One Brigade pursues another , and Flight I find the best Expedient ; for my Enemies I perceive are so desperately resolv'd , that they 'll rather die than quit the Field . Dangers foreseen are the sooner prevented , and I design to sleep in a whole Skin as long as I can . Zanker , farewel , I am glad to see thee behind me , and no need of a Chirurgion . Ar. Did you think of Boghall , when the Vermin last Night were so busy about you ? the Story of my Duck was pleasant to you , and so is this to me . Those Characters and Impressions seal'd on your Sides ( by these Scotish Interlopers ) will oblige you to remember Zanker these seven days . You have not been used to such coarse Entertainment , nor treated as I have been , with such Scots Commons . Is this the fruits of private Practice to compleat your self a Graduate , tho you steal your Preferment from a Nitty Corporation ? at the best you can be but Batchelor of Backbiters-hall . But now jesting is done , and you 're half undone I perceive ; what will you do now in reference to Zanker ? can you give us a Relation of that Corporation ? Th. Yes , that I can , and will do , notwithstanding the Difficulties I have encountred . Zanker stands situate on a Flat or Level , surrounded as you see with excellent Corn-Fields : but more remote it 's besieged with Mountains that are rich in Lead-Mines . The Planets I fancy them very benevolent to influence this swompy Rocky Earth , and shine Metallick Blessings into them , to commode the indigent and almost uncultivated Native . Heaven it 's true , is always propitious , because never to impose the Law of Sterility , when to supply the whole World with the Bounty of Increase . And tho the People hereabouts are destitute of Ingenuity , and their Fields for the most part impoverish'd for want of Cultivation ; yet are their Rivers and Rivulets replenished with Trout , because undisturb'd with the noosy Net , which augments the Anglers , if not the Artizans Entertainment . Ar. Here 's no Character of Zanker all this while . Th. I am just coming to tell you , that Zanker is a Town and a Corporation too ; tho not bulky in Buildings , yet there is a Bailiff , Master sometimes of a Brew-house , whose Entertainments ( in my opinion ) may easily be guest at , provided you reflect on our late Accommodation . There is also a Market-place , such an one as it is , and a kind of a thing they call a Tolbooth , which at first sight might be suspected a Prison , because it 's so like one ; whose Decays by the Law of Antiquity are such , that every Prisoner is threatned with Death before his Trial ; and every Casement , because bound about with Iron-bars , discovers the Entertainments destined only to Felons . Now the Market-place is less worthy of a Description than the Tolbooth ; for no Man would know it to be such , were he not told so . There is also a Kirk , or something like it ; but I might as reverently call it a Barn ; because so little to distinguish betwixt them , and the whole Town reads daily Lectures of Decays ; so do her Ports , her Avenues and Entrances . Where note , I call her the Child of Antiquity , by reason of her Ruins and irreparable Decays . It 's true , I was not murdered , nor was I kill'd outright , yet I narrowly escaped as eminent a Danger , when almost worried to death with Lice . Ar. However , I am glad you escaped without Scars ; and advise for the future , that you examine your Lodging before you make your formal Entrance . In the mean time , let me restitute some part of Amendment , by an easy , tho solitary Journy over this mountanous Country , to sweeten your Entertainment . And in regard of your Unexperience in these Northern Tracts , I shall direct our Course through the Coast of Galloway , a Compendium of the Highlands immerg'd in the Arms of the Low-lands : and I 'll appeal to your self , when you have seen her Fertility , if you do not envy her blest Inhabitants , because inrich'd with the Plenty of Rivers and Rivulets , Woods and Groves ; besides , benevolent Fields , and profitable Pastures Yet sometimes we must ramble o're some rotten Bogs , as now we do ; and permit our Feet ( as at other times ) to climb those knotty craggy Mountains , that , like a Gnomen , direct to the Town of Kilmarnock , a kind of a Corporation , where we may expect the comfortable Issues of good Entertainment ; for worse than the last is madness to contemplate . Th. Is that the Town that presents at a distance ? Ar. Yes , that is Kilmarnock , an antient Corporation , heap'd up and crowded with Men and Mechanicks : through the midst of whose crazy tottering Ports , there runs a River replenished with Trout , where we may treat our Appetites , as already our Apprehensions , with the Entertainments of Dumbarton , whose rapid Streams when we come to examine them , are enough one would think to surfeit the Angler . To which place it is now but one days Journy , nor need we hackney it at more than an ordinary rate , before we discover those beautiful Ascents , and the Hostile Habitation of our Friend Aquilla , that dwells in those Western florid Fields , who will bid us welcome , and rejoice to see us . Nor will Glasgow be any Impediment in our way , whilst we only survey her beautiful Palaces , so direct to the lofty Turrets of Dumbarton . Th. Let the Sun , or his Star the beautiful Aurora , arrest me , if otherwise I arise not before break of Day , and be in readiness for a March to the famous Glasgow , where you purpose to refresh , and briefly examine the City-Curiosities ; as also the Customs of their magnificent Situations : whose Academick Breasts are a Nursery for Education , as the City for Hospitality . And let this be your Task as we travel to Dumbarton , to give us a Narrative of the Antiquities of Cloyd , as also of the Town of Kilmarnock , where we slept this Night , that so bravely refresh'd us . Ar. That I can do as we ride along . Th. Do so , it will be very acceptable . Ar. Then to expostulate the Antiquities of Kilmarnock ; as it would puzzle the Pen of an ingenious Historiographer , so I for that end was thinking to evade it , and refer it to some other of more mature Judgment ; since you your self , and consequently others that read my Relation , will probably reduce me to the Probate of a Censure . On the other hand , the Native who lives under an Expectation , would equally condemn me for my Taciturnity , should I silently pass by and imprint no Remarks on their Silty Sands , and Silver Streams . To this Dilemma I am driven by the Censures of some , nor can I escape the Clamours of others : So that I sail betwixt Sylla and Charibdis . However , I shall use my best Endeavours to gratify both as near as I can , and consult the mean and Mediums of Veracity , so far as Experience and Discovery can inform me : So that I shall say but little more than to tell the World that Kilmarnock is an antient Corporation , crowded with Mechanicks and Brew-houses . Th. But that 's not all . Ar. If not enough , then you must have more it seems ; and not only for your self , but for those that are more inquisitous . And what will they say ? why you and they both will tell me , it 's only risling into Ruins . Nor indeed is it other , when in our Progress we proceed to prove little more , save only a discovery of Ruins and Decays . Th. Be it what it will however let us have it . Ar. Well then , if to go one step further , surely it won't cripple me : let me tell you then , it 's an Antient Manufactory . Th. And what of all that ? is this more than what we formerly knew ? Ar. It 's more than I knew , that you knew so much . But this Discourse , Theophilus , better becomes an Antiquary , than one that queries : for should I but step into her dirty Streets , that are seldom clean but on a Sun-shiny Day ; or at other Times , when great Rains melt all the Muck , and forcibly drive it down their cadaverous Channels into the River Marr , whose Streams are so sullied then , that the River loses its natural Brightness , till the Stains are wash'd out , so become invisible . All which to examine , is enough to convince you , that the Influence of Planets are their best Scavenger : for the Natives in this Northern Latitude , are naturally so addicted to Idleness and Nastiness , that should not the Heavens contribute the Blessings of Rain , they would inevitably surfeit with their own Uncleanliness . Th. All this we will grant you ; the Footsteps are evident . Ar. Where note , these Inhabitants dwell in such ugly Houses , as in my Opinion are but little better than Huts ; and generally of a Size , all built so low , that their Eves hang dangling to touch the Earth : nor are they uniform , nor hold they Correspondency one with another : and that which is worse than all the rest , is their unproportionate ill Contrivance ; because , when to consider a Dwarf of a House , so covered over with a Gigantick Roof . By which you may imagine , our former Projectors had but little Project for curious Contrivances ; and to speak plain English , as little costly . The next thing in course that falls under our Consideration , will be their Artificers . But the Moors ( more than all the rest ) have gain'd the Reputation for the temper of Dirks , Razors and Knives , whose Temper is so exact , that it super-excels all the Mechanicks in Scotland . Where note , you may observe there are Artists amongst them , though not one good Structure to be found in Kilmarnock ; nor do I remember any Wall it has , but a River there is , as I formerly told you of , that runs through the Town ; over which there stood a Bridg so wretchedly ancient , that it 's unworthy our Commendations any otherwise , than as Travellers commend the Bridg they go over . Another part of their Manufacture is knitting of Bonnets , and spinning of Scotish Cloth ; which turns to very good Account . Then for their Temper of Metals , they are without compeer ; Scotland has not better . And as they are Artizans in Dirks , so are they Artists in Fudling , as if there were some Rule in Drinking . So that to me it represents as if Art and Ale were inseparable Companions . Moreover , their Wives are sociable Comers too ; yet not to compare with those of Dumblain , who pawn their Petticotes to pay their Reckoning . Th. Here 's a jolly Crew of Alemen ( but very few Anglers ) crowded together in the small compass of a little Corporation , curiously compacted . For the Houses you may observe besiege the River ; and that River to divide the ruinous Ports , left only as Reliques that remain discoverable : however it 's my Opinion that a Stone Wall has incircled the Town , since hitherto as to Observation , there 's rarely a Town of any eminency in Scotland , but is or has been beleagured with a strong Stone Wall ; but as to that I 'le silence my self . Ar. Well then , I 'le proceed to pilot you down these solitary Descents , that direct to the eminent Ports of Air , near whose difficult entrances stands a strong Citadel , formidable and spacious , in the Base of a Pentagon , erected on purpose to reduce Insurrectors . Th. Must we dismount these Hills , to traverse those Valleys ? Ar. Yes , surely we must , if designing to trace the fertil Fields and beautiful Plains of the now famous and flourishing Glasgow , where we may accommodate our selves with various Guriosities ; for the Days are long enough , and our Journey no more than a breathing to Dumbarton . Now the first Curiosity that invites us to gaze at , is a large and spacious Bridg of Stone , that directs to the fair lmbellishments of Glasgow . But our next Entertainment , is the pleasant Medows , and the portable Streams of the River Cloyd , eminent in three Capacities . The first is , because of her numberless numbers of Trout . The second is , because of her multiplicity of Salmon . But the third and last is , from her native Original , and gradual Descents ; because so calmly to mingle her Streams with the Ocean . Not that we now consider her florid Medows , nor shall we recount her Nativity from Tintaw , because so strongly opposed and presum'd from Erricsteen , distant from thence some few odd Miles . Th. If you please , let that Argument drop till farther Opportunity . Ar. I am thinking to do so , and proceed to discourse this eminent Glasgow . Which is a City girded about with a strong Stone-Wall , within whose flourishing Arms , the Industrious Inhabitant cultivates Art to the utmost . There is also a Cathedral ( but it 's very Ancient ) that stands in the East Angle , supervising the Bulk of the City , and her ornamental Ports . Moreover , there are two Parish-Churches ; but no more to the best of my Observation . Then there is a College ; which they call an University , but I 'm at a stand what to call it , where one single College compleats a University . Now let us descend to describe the Splendor and Gaity of this City of Glasgow ; which surpasseth most , if not all the Corporations in Scotland . Here it is you may observe four large fair Streets , modell'd , as it were , into a spacious Quadrant ; in the Centre whereof their Market-place is fix'd ; near unto which stands a stately Tolbooth , a very sumptuous , regulated , uniform Fabrick , large and lofty , most industriously and artificially carved from the very Foundation to the Superstructure , to the great admiration of Strangers and Travellers . But this State-house or Tolbooth , is their Western Prodigy , infinitely excelling the model and usual built of Town-halls ; and is , without exception , the Paragon of Beauty in the West ; whose Compeer is no where to be found in the North , should you rally the Rarities of all the Corporations in Scotland . Here the Reader ( it's possible ) may think I hyperbolize ; but let him not mistake himself , for I write no Ambiguities : Truth stands naked in plain Simplicity ; and Partiality I abhor as a base Imposture . He that reads my Relation , and the Morals of this famous Glasgow , will vindicate my Description , and place the Fault to him that invents the Fable ; for it 's opposite to my Genius , as also to my Principles , either to deface a beautiful Fabrick , or contract a Guilt by magnifying it beyond its due Merit . I have , and therefore shall , as near as I can , in an equal Poize ballance things aright . Permit me therefore , as a Licentiat , to read you but a short , yet pertinent Lecture , and I 'le tell you what Entertainments we met with in Glasgow , as also what hopes we have to meet with the like in the Circuit of our intended Northern Progress . But this I offer to the Dubious only ; if peradventure there be any such as scruple , I 'le refer them to the Natives to evidence for me , which I am satisfied they will with ten thousand Manifesto's . In the next place , we are to consider the Merchants and Traders in this eminent Glasgow . Whose Store-houses and Ware-houses are stuft with Merchandize : as their Shops swell big with Foreign Commodities , and Returns from France , and other remote Parts ; where they have Agents and Factors to correspond , and inrich their Maritime Ports , whose Charter exceeds all the Charters in Scotland : which is a considerable Advantage to the City-Inhabitants ; because blest with Privileges as large , nay , larger than any other Corporation . Moreover , they dwell in the Face of France , and a Free Trade , as I formerly told you . Nor is this all , for the Staple of their Country consists of Linens , Friezes , Furs , Tartans , Pelts , Hides , Tallow , Skins , and various other small Manufactures and Commodities , not comprehended in this Breviat . Besides , I should remind you , that they generally exceed in good French Wines , as they naturally superabound with Fish and Fowl ; some Meat does well with their Drink . And so give me leave to finish my discourse of this famous Glasgow , whose Ports we relinquish to distinguish those Entertainments of Dumbarton , always provided we scatter no Corn. Th. What to think , or what to say of this eminent Glasgow , I know not ; except to fancy a smell of my Native Country . The very Prospect of this flourishing City , reminds me of the beautiful Fabricks , and the florid Fields in England , so that now I begin to expect a pleasant Journey . Pray tell me , Arnoldus , how many such Cities shall we meet with in our Travels ; where the Streets and the Channels are so cleanly swept , and the Meat in every House so artificially drest ? the Linen I also observed was very neatly lap'd up ; and , to their praise be it spoke , was Lavender proof : besides , the People were decently drest , and such an exact Decorum in every Society , represents it to my apprehension an Emblem of England , though in some measure under a deeper Die. However I 'le superscribe it the Nonsuch of Scotland ; where an English Florist may pick up a Posie : so that should the residue of their Cities in our Northern Progress seem as barren as uncultivated Fields ; and every Field so replenished with Thistles , that a Flower could scarcely flourish amongst them , yet would I celebrate thy Praise , O Glasgow , because of those pleasant and fragrant Flowers that so sweetly refresh'd me , and to admiration , sweetned our present Entertainments . Ar. Now the Day-star springs , and the flaming Steeds of the Sun invite our departure . The Smiles of the Weather prognosticate we shall reach Dumbarton in very good time ; where we may redress and refit such Tackle , as shall serve to accommodate both our Art and Exercise : for near to those famous and flourishing Ports , there glides a rapid and peremptory River , that gulphs forth of the Bowels of Loemon , replenished with Trout ; and beyond all measure of incomparable Salmon , ( if I calculate right ) where we may sport to Day , and to Morrow too , provided the Season serve to our purpose . So from thence we may pass into the Fields of Luss , ( by fording the Loemon ) where beyond dispute we shall gratify our selves with such solitary Entertainments , as the Angler most delights in : So from thence by crossing the Loemon Eastward , we arrive in the steril Fields of Bohanan ; a Situation by some thought almost inaccessible , by reason of Hills , and multiplicity of Boggs . Th. What lofty domineering Towers are those that storm the Air , and stand a tiptoe ( to my thinking ) upon two stately elevated pondrous Rocks , that shade the Valley with their prodigious Growth , even to amazement ? because to display such adequate and exact Proportion , with such equality in their Montanous Pyramides , as if Nature had stretch'd them into Parallel Lines , with most accurate poize to amuze the most curious and critical Observer ; though with exquisite Perspectives he double an Observation , yet shall he never trace a Disproportion in those uniform Piermonts . Ar. These are those natural , and not artificial Pyramides , that have stood , for ought I know , since the beginnings of Time ; nor are they sheltred under any Disguise : for Nature her self drest up this elaborate Precipice , without Art or Engine , or any other Manual , till arriving at this period of Beauty and Perfection : and because having Laws and Limits of her own , destinated by the Prerogative Royal of Heaven , she heap'd up these Massy inaccessible Pyramides , to invalidate Art , and all its Admirers , since so equally to shape a Mountain , and to form it into so great and such exact Proportions . Th. Then it 's no Fancy I perceive , when in the midst of those lofty and elevated Towers , a Palace presents it self unto us , immured with Rocks , and a craggy Front that with a haughty Brow contemns the Invader . And where below at those knotty Descents , Neptune careers on brinish Billows , arm'd with Tritons in Corslets of Green , that threatens to invade this impregnable Rock , and shake the Foundations ; which if he do , he procures an Earthquake . Ar. This is the Rock , and that which you see elevated in the Air , and inoculated to it , is an artificial Fabrick , invelop'd as you now observe in the very Breast of this prodigious Mountain ; which briefly , yet well enough , your Observation directs to , both as to the Form , Situation and Strength . Moreover , it 's a Garison , and kept by the Albions , where formerly our Friend Foelecius dwelt ; who of late , upon Preferment , is transplanted into Ireland ▪ however Aquilla will bid us welcome ; and if I mistake not , he advances to meet us ; look wishly forward , and you 'l see him trace those delightful Fields from the Ports of Dumbarton . Aquil. What vain Delusions thus possess me ! nay what idle Dotages and Fictitious Dreams thus delude me ; if these be Ghosts , which I fancy Men. O Heavens ! it's our Friend Arnoldus , and ( if I mistake not ) Theophilus with him . Welcome to Dumbarton . Ar. Thanks dear Aquilla , thus friendly to salute us ; we are come to see you , and have deserted the beautiful Tracts of Albion , to trample the solitary Fields in Scotland . Behold these Evidences ; we have brought our Rods , where note you may easily guess our Design . Aquil. Above all Men you are fortunate ; for had you studied an Age to time your Business for a Day 's Diversion , the Heavens could not shine Stars more propitious . Do but see how the Ground is chap'd and parch'd , and the Streams so lean and barren of Soil , as well they may , for no moisture has fallen to refresh the Earth , nor drive down Soil to recruit the Rivers and feast the Fish , this Month or more , till yesterday ; and then the Clouds began to dapple , the Face of the Firmament to lowre , the Sky to discolour , the Air to moisten , and the Spouts of Heaven seemingly to drop : yet when all came to all , it came to nothing ; for the Tears of this Storm converted into a Calm ; so exhal'd into Meteors , for ought I know : for when we expected a Deluge of Rain , there fell by chance but some few extravagant Drops ; which for Greediness made the Fish almost forsake the Water ; the Complexion whereof being but a little changed , you may fancy , if you please , to fish under a Colour . Ar. Notwithstanding all this I 'm for the Fly. Th. And I 'm for any Bait , or any Colour , so that I be but doing . Aquil. Then I 'm for the Ground-bait , and I perswade my self it will turn to best Account , and prove most profitable to answer my Expectation : For with but three sorts of Fish we must trifle our time ( viz. ) the active Eel , the dextrous Trout , and the incomparable Salmon ; all which will as greedily pursue a Worm , as a luxurious Appetite pursues his Paunch . Bring but a Brandlin or rather a Gildtail , and try whether Trouts be destitute of an Appetite . Th. They must have good Stomachs sure , if they be always eating . Aquil. You are waggish , Theophilus , but really I am serious ; for now we begin to discover those silent and solitary Deeps , those rapid and swift Falls of Water , besides those stiff and strong Streams , that invite us to treat the Family of Fish. So that I conceive it is almost impossible to direct a Line , and miss a Reward : And the bottom , if you please , let us examine that with Ground-bait , to prove the Effects of our Art and Skill , to summons Contribution from so generous an Adventure . But if Mid-water we consult , then I commend the Canker , with the Catter-pillar , or the Grub ; or , if with a depinged Locust , you will not lose your Labour ; nor will you starve your Cause , if to strip off the Legs of a Grashopper . All these are excellent Baits , but the green Monket of the Owlder-Tree super-excels them all . Then there 's the Pink ( which you call a Minew ) if display'd with a Swivel at Mid-water ; or you may if you please drag him from the bottom of the Deeps , so glide him all along through the Region of Limpid Streams , the better to display this amorous Charm , so obtain the Point by the Mediums of Art , as already is advisable by consulting the Artist . Th. Now I perceive we but trifle Time , this tedious Discourse obstructs Recreation . Let us stretch our Limbs with the length of the Streams ; we have Day enough and pleasant Weather , why then so vainly to procrastinate Time with flattering Thoughts of suggested Enjoyments , which signify no more than Honour in Dreams ? Come , my Friends , let us reform that Error by the Progress of Art. So that if our Labours be spent to advantage , and our selves , like Artists , sufficiently recompensed by the Rod ; we may sport the Day away , and lengthen our Expectation , that to Morrow's Recreation , if the Season favour us , may glut us with Pleasure , and burden us with Spoil . Ar. We shall cross the old Proverb I perceive , since no Arguments are Engines strong enough to convince Theophilus , that Haste makes waste ; whose unlimited Zeal after Recreation is boundless beyond measure ; insomuch that a Grompus won't gratify him in point of Diversion . Come then , and trim up your Line , and arm your self , and observe those translucid trembling Streams that dash themselves against those Rocks ; hazard your Fortune there for once , and be sure you begin at the Head of the Stream , and so gradually pursue the extent of your Colony , and fish by Direction according to Prescription , both with Worm and Minew ; then hope a prosperous Issue , as I question not but you do . In the mean time let me caution you , that with circumspection you purdue your self , if intending to surprize and captivate your Game ; for by this time I fancy you have already beleagured them : Be advised therefore to repeat your Discipline , and keep your Distance . So I leave you to your Fortune and a fair Day , for I purpose to attempt the Head of Loemon ; and about four Hours , or it may be five , let us make our Rendezvouz in the Caves of that Rock . As for Aquilla , he needs no Direction , whose Knowledg and Experience is so general in these Streams , that an Age to examine them would not better improve him . Now let us separate , and each Man to his Adventure ; but be mindful of the Place , and the prefix'd Time appointed : so that after the delicious Toil of Exercise , we may produce the Issues and Effects of our Labours , when successfully we meet , as I hope we may . Aquilla , farewel , and farewel Theophilus ; to whom I contribute my Wishes for thy fortunate Success , to gain the Laureat from the best of Anglers that pursue the Art. Th. What , do you question it , that know so well my Abilities ? here I 'le stand to my Arms ; and in this solitary place , I 'le hazard my Rod and Line with my Reputation and Fortune . Aquil. Resolv'd like a Vertuoso of the Rod and Line ; there you may mingle Meditations with your Recreations , whilst you consult those purling murmuring Streams that rally from the top of those craggy Mountains : see how they trickling tumble down those solitary Rocks , whose Descents , like Diapasons , shap'd into musical Sounds , must of necessity invite the Fish to dance : so that sometimes they elevate themselves so high , that I have seen them throw themselves a Foot above Water . This we call the Contemplative Angler's Harmony ; and it proves his Harvest too , when they freely bite . So farewel , Theophilus ; but remember the Rendezvouz at the previous Descent of that spacious Rock , beautified with Firs ; not far from thence stands a pleasant Grove : through which there glides a glittering Rivulet , begirt round about with admirable Rocks : search well those Meanders , and you 'l find me fishing . Th. It 's very like I may , And what then ? In the mean time , here I 'm deprived of Society , except to fancy Fish my solitary Companions , the Cavities of Rocks my Sepulchre , and these shady flourishing Trees an Emblem of Death ; for Aquilla he is gone , and Arnoldus has left me to lament my Self , and five hours Separation . But why so melancholy among these purling Streams , that seemingly interpose betwixt my Passion , and their silent murmurings ? Do not these repeated Ecchoes ( if I hit the Key ) lively remonstrate the life-touches of Solitudes , and the true Imitation of sweet Contemplation ? Sympathy in affection , I call that amiable ; and the fair and beautiful Prospect of the Mind , that represents the real Signature of Friendship . But this Pace I perceive won't carry on my Design , nor are Complaints proper Engines or sutable Instruments to surprize Fish. How pitifully it looks for the Angler to lie puling , whilst Fish like Allegators are pulling all in pieces , let any Man judg that 's destinated to be undone . Most unfortunate Theophilus , but now too late to lament thy Remissness ; and rather than unpunished , let thy shameful Loss be enough to torment thee . What at once all vanished , nothing left but thy self ! so that were not I left , there was nothing to laugh at ; and I worthily deserve it , because to lose my Reputation . What an opportunity have I lost in losing my Rod , and an equal Fate to lose my Exercise ? but from Twig to Twig I 'le traverse the Streams , and examine every Bush to repair my Misfortune : so that at leisure I may lie down , and lament my Remissness ; for condemn'd by my self , there needs no Judg to sentence me . Hold a little ! I discover some thing , either the Stock of my Rod , or a Counterfeit . So so , I shall patch up my Losses by finding my Rod , for it lay where I left it , and my bag of Flies lies not far from it . And now I have a Patent , I resolve to take Toll , and examine what Contribution these Streams will advance me . However , lest Precipitancy spoil my Sport , I 'le preponder my Rudiments ; and they prognostiate here 's a Fish , or something like it ; a fair handsel for a foolish Fisher. But here 's the old Game again that we had at Dumfreez . This capering , for ought I know , may cost him his Life , for I resolve to hold his Nose to the Grind-stone : dance on and die , this is the way to your silent Sepulchre ; for upon that silty gravelly Shelf of Sand , I resolve to land him , or lose all I have . And now I fancy him weary of Life , as aged People that are burdened with Infirmities ; yet I want Courage to encounter him , lest fearing to lose him , which if I do , I impair my Reputation . Howe●er , I 'le examine my Stock of Confidence , and see how far that will go : but then I want a Landing-hook , and he is resolute to make an escape ; and I would be as resolute to restrain , and if possible to confirm him my Prisoner : so that what Progress to hope for in this solitary Adventure , I know not , till farther examination . However , here 's no Body but Trees to reprove me , except these Rocks ; and they 'l tell no Tales . Well then , as he wants no Agility to evade me , I 'le endeavour with Activity to approach him : so that the difference betwixt us will be only this , he covets Acquaintance but with one Element , and I would compel him to examine another . Navigators report , that Fish can fly , and so shall this , or I 'le forfeit my Discretion ; and if it succeeds well that I conquer this Fish , Matriculation falls in course from the Vertuosos of the Rod. Now he runs to divert me , or himself ; but I must invite him nearer Home , for I fancy no such Distance . Though his Fins fag , his Tail riggles , his Strength declines , his Gills look languid , and his Mettle decreaseth ; all which interpret Tokens of Submission : yet the best News I bring him , is summons of Death . Yet let not my Rashness preingage me to a loss of my Game . For to neglect my Rudiments , is to ruin my Design , which in plain terms is the Destruction of this resolute Fish ; who seemingly now measures and mingles his Proportion with more than one Element : and doom'd to a Trance , he prostrates himself on the Surface of the Calmes , dead to apprehension ; save only I want Credit to believe him dead , when calling to mind my former fatal Precipitancy , that invited me to a Loss ; and so may this Adventure prove , if I look not well about me , to land and strand him on that Shelf of Sand , where I resolve , with my Rod , to survey his Dimensions . Then have at All , or it may be Nothing ; however it succeeds well , for I 'me insured of a Victory . Welcome a Shore my languishing Combitant , if only to entertain our Friend Arnoldus . I am fast again , or have hold of another Fish ; but I 'le undermine his Design by an old Stratagem : for now I have got the way of catching them , I only want the knack of Cookery to dress them . The Exercise of Angling obliges me to love the Art ; and I see it 's good to hearken to Counsel ; for had I neglected that , I had run retrograde to Reason , so lost my Reward . But this Fish I fancy is not so resolute as the former ; this yields himself Captive upon slight Summons , so dies by the Law and Force of Artillery . My Hook I perceive has divested him of Power ; and I shall deny him Capitulation for Life , who must also change Elements with his late Predecessor , or I 'le lose all I have to compass my Design . I fancy I have hold of another Fish ; if so , I shall want Arguments to express the Sweets of this Exercise , and the Pleasure of Solitudes to the Contemplative Angler . By this you may perceive , it 's necessarily requisite at all times , especially upon Emergencies , to hearken to Counsel ; for indisputably had I pursued irregular Measures , and slighted Arnoldus his solid Instructions , so followed the Dictates of my former Resolution of making Fish fly , all had flown in pieces : And how fondly then had I betrayed my own Folly , by exposing my self and my Reputation to a loss ? On the contrary , I can triumph , and say all is well ; and tell what Execution my Minews have done , that my Rod and Line and Swivel's secure . Where note , I think now to pack up my Impliments , and hasten to the Place we formerly agreed upon ; approving it necessary in all Societies to observe the Punctilio's of Promise among Friends . Another thing secretly affects me ; and that is , to think what an Artist Arnoldus will extol me . Aquil. This is the Place , and the prefix'd Time of Agreement is at hand ; yet on these glittering Sands there 's no Tract to trace the impress of the Feet of Arnoldus or Theophilus . Surely Angling's all Charms , to break the Links of the golden Chain of Promise . But whither will these rash Presumptions hurry me ? what , to suspect Friendship , the Diadem and Darling of Human Society ? Yonder he advances , to the Place appointed ; I 'le step and salute him , and make a Present of my fortunate Successes . These are the Toils and the Fruits of my Labour , which I freely dedicate to our Friend Arnoldus . Ar. Where kill'd you these Trouts ? With what Artifice did you surprize them ? Aquil. With nothing but a Minew , some call it Penk . Ar. I understand your meaning ; but where did you Fish ? Aquil. In those purling Streams , at the foot of that Rock . Ar. I should have thought it impossible , did not these Evidences convince me , that so small a Rivulet should lodg and harbour so large a Fish. Here 's a Salmon Aquilla , that I but newly tickled to Death with a Fly ; accept my adventure , I have another for Theophilus when he comes up with us . Aquil. He is yonder , I see him coming , and could heartily wish he had seen but the Death of this brace of Salmon , to put a zealous spur to his Exercise . Ar. Besides these Salmon , I have two brace of Trouts , that would make a Cockney's Teeth stand a Water and spring a Leek , for no other purpose than to tap his Mouth . Aquil. Our Fortunes are unequal , the Garland is yours , and never may it wither from your Heroick Brow. Now we shall see what improvement Theophilus has made in this Piscatorian Negotiation . Yonder he comes , let us hasten to meet him . Ar. Welcome Theophilus ! are our Fortunes equal ? What Phenomena of Pleasures spring from solitary Rocks ? How fancy you this inoffensive Life , to sit in the Sun-shine , then remove into Shades near the Brinks of bubling murmuring Rivulets , that sigh a pleasant silent softness , whilst the Birds harmoniously deliciat the Air , and Fish in frolicks dance Coranto's to the Angler ; whilst Man ( Lord of the Creation ) is captivated with Divine Contemplation ; fancying to himself a kind of an Elizium , representing the shady Fragrancies of Paradise ? Th. O Arnoldus , I was certainly enamoured to see how the shady Trees hung dangling about me ; whilst the murmuring Streams through the Lungs of Zephyrus , made Musick to my Fancy , tho not to the pitch of the melodious Philomel , and the Chorus of Birds that beat the Air with their mellifluous Quires , which springs fresh thoughts of the Non-age of Time , when the Constitution of the Creation was a composition of Harmony . Ar. But the luxurious Angler admires another Consort . He loves no Musick but the twang of the Line ; nor any Sound , save the Ecchoes of the Water ; no Rest nor Pause , but impatient till they bite ; no Flats nor Sharps , but solitary Pools and rapid Streams ; no Beats nor Shakes , but strugling and strangling : and , in short , no close except that of the Panier . So that I may properly call his Harmony their Haltering . Th. Just such Success I had ; for Art was useless to catch such Fish , as careless of their Lives , they cast them away . Look here Arnoldus , I have brought my Evidences ; this Brace I caught , and this catch'd me . Ar. Here 's sutable Diversion , our Exercise has equaliz'd the Ballance of Success : Not an Artist amongst us barren of Sport. Aquil. Nor the Water out of temper ; if it hold so to Morrow , we may flatter our selves the Town 's our own . Ar. It may be so , if all hits right : What , two Sundays in one Week ? Don't you observe it rain already ? However let us trace these glittering Sands , to those solitary Fields that direct to Dumbarton : we have spent the time to sufficient Advantage , had there been nothing more in it than initiating Theophilus , whom I perswade my self will consult the Art , and manifestly in time approve himself Eminent . Th. Come Gentlemen Piscatorians , and Vertuoso's of the Rod , Dumbarton begins to present unto us ; where like Heros we may triumph , because from these Fords to carry off such Trophies , as will evidence for us the Remarks of Spoil ; and where the Inhabitants must be indigent of Civility , if not civilly to treat us , whilst we commode them with the choicest Treasures of Loemon . What think you Gentlemen ? your Opinion on the Measures I have taken . Aquil. I approve on 't very well . Ar. So do I. But first if you please let us enter their Ports , and examine the Distinction betwixt Diet and Disease . As also we may consult if their Beds are burdensome after Exercise ; which I desire to experience , and the rather , in regard ( as I perceive ) by those Signals , the sprinkling of Rain , we must be forced to depart to morrow Morning . Aquil. A Sentence too severe ; we cannot morally separate so soon . Ar. Morally or Naturally , it must be so ; for when the Coverings of Rain shut up the Casements of Day , and Darkness as a Pavilion overshades the Night , it 's madness to contemplate Recreation in Angling , when the Rivers are hourly recruited with Rains. Aquil. I approve not of hasty Resolves , as prognosticate a parting before we meet ; the Law of Friendship binds it otherwise . Th. A very bad Handsel to earnest our Separation . Aquil. So it appears : for should every Man measure his present Occasion by the Rule of Necessity , my Duty compels me to the Turrets of Dumbarton : And how disconsolate shall I be to discourse Rocks and Stones , when deprived the Society of my Friends and Associates ? Th. One Day more , Arnoldus , will break no Squares ; let Time arrest us , I 'le put in Bail. Aquil. Here 's a friendly Advocate to furnish us with fresh Arguments , that may bring about , for ought I know , new and fresh Results after the Series of second Thoughts : Who so unkind now to frame a parting , or denounce the Sentence of a Farewel to morrow ? Ar. That must I , to wander in the Fields of Luss by Sun-rise ; otherwise we shall not reach Bohannan by Sun-set . Th. So then , my Mouth is stop'd I perceive ; nor have I any thing more to offer by way of Argument , only my Lamentation for our so sudden Separation . Aquilla , farewel ; Arnoldus and I must jog on together : but assure your self , if my Stars are but so propitious as to favour my return by the way of Dumbarton ; no Body I 'le assure you shall be more soilcitous than Theophilus , to redouble a trouble upon our Friend Aquilla ; and for more than a Night : And so farewel . Aquil. I cannot part . Ar. Then go along with us . Aquil. That 's morally impossible ; how can I leave my Charge ? Ar. Then pray discharge us ; for we are upon Duty ? Aquil. Be prosperous and propitious , I 'le pray your Welfare ; and contemplate your Enterprizes in all vertuous Actions . Ar. This your Kindness obliges me to retaliate , with as much Piety as becomes a Christian. So farewel . Th. And with as much Religion as becomes an Angler , accept of my Charity : so farewel . Ar. Now Theophilus , let not Sleep circumvent us ; the Loemon , I perceive , begins to swell . We must rise with the Sun , or sooner , if possible : we must not triste nor delay the Time in crossing the Loemon , if we intend to stretch up the lofty Mountains in the Island of Luss. Th. I see 't is Day , for the blazing Torch of the Sun begins to paint the Universe . Let us mount our Horses , to mount this Mountanous Country of Luss , where the Hills represent the lofty Alps. Ar. Look back on those inferiour Fabricks in the Low-lands ; whilst we ascend these eminent high High-lands , that supervise those shady Valleys below them ; which we now relinquish , though beautified with Rivers and pleasant Rivulets . Th. What little Mediterranian is this ? Ar. The large and spacious Loemon , so generally discours'd for the floating Island ; but it floats not here in these solitary Western Fields as fictitiously supposed by the ignorant Reporters . But our travel will reform that Error in time , when we come to trace the Mountains beyond Badanoch . Th. Is this Lough , as reported , so numerous in Islands ? Ar. Yes sure ; however I shall give you but a short Description . This Loemon , as you see , is immerg'd with the High-lands . On the West it 's bounded with the Island of Luss ; but on the East with the barren Fields of Bohanan : Norward it 's begirt with the Pass of Inchcallow ; and Southward by Dumbarton , and the Bounds about it . But the length of this Loemon is twenty four Miles ; and twenty four Islands the Natives will tell you are lodg'd in the Arms of this spacious Lough . Her Breadth , in the largest place , not to exceed three Leagues over ; and in the narrowest part , some two or three Miles . This small Mediterrane ( as you are pleased to call it ) is surrounded with Woods , Mountains , rockey , boggy , sandy and miry Earth : and is the greatest inland Sea in Scotland ; nor is it parallel'd with any Southward ; and all the North inferiour to it ; excepting only the Lough called Ness. Now from Loemon under the Bray of these lofty Hills , we pass to the Kirk of Drummon , that leads to Aberfoil ; a more remarkable Pass than that of Inchcallow , if designing to make Inroads into the Bowels of the Highlands . Th. What Place is this ? Ar. Beautiful Bohanan besieged with Bogs , and barrocadoed with Birch-trees ; the Highlanders Landskip , and the Lowlanders Prospect ; whose boggy Swamps incommode the Traveller . However , the Natives in the Winter-Season , employ themselves only to recreate Swine there , because a People uncultivated in Agriculture . Where note , the Accommodations of this solitary Country is so rarely understood by the Natives and Inhabitants , that Strangers for the most part are left destitute of a Report . Th. What other Fabrick's that , distant about a Mile from Bohanan ? Ar. That 's Kilmarnock , the only Relique of the Dukes of Lennox ; a very strong Stone House , that stands most sweetly situated on the very brinks of famous Leven ; whose Fields are inhabited by the Clan of the Stewarts . Th. A Royal Name ; but a Loyal poor Clan , as I am told . Ar. It 's true enough ; so let us relinquish the Suburbs of Leven . to trace the flourishing Skirts of Calvin , whose smiling Streams invite the Angler to examine them ; for here one would think the Stones were steep'd in the Oil of Oespres , to invite the Fish to come ashore : where you may observe every bubling Stream reflect a Smile on the amorous Banks , covered with Green , and enamell'd with Flowers . Here also the Sylvans upon shady Bushes bathe themselves in silver Streams ; and where Trouts to sport and divert the Angler , will leap on Shore , though with the loss of their Lives : so that if Demonstration be Truth , and Eye-sight Evidence to convince the incredulous , there 's not a Rivulet in Scotland , upon the Angler's examination , superexcels this Calvin , for diversion with small Trout ; whose translucid Streams , because so rich in themselves , and so numerous in Trouts , make them not over-curious of self-preservation ; for with a Rod in my Hand ( but I almost blush to report it , because suspecting the incredulity of some incredulous Persons ) I have ushered to those pleasant and delightful Shores , ten or twelve brace of Trouts in an Hour . Distant from Calvin about some two Miles Eastward , stands dull Dunkeeth , upon the head of a slaty Rivulet , that 's replenished with Eel , and plenty of small Trout : but more Southward yet is craggy Cragbarnoch : from whence North and by East we discover the ruinous Battlements and unpolished Turrets of sooty Glorret . It 's true , the Natives call it a Castle , but I fancy the Name of a House would have served as well : near to which place glides the glittering Kaldar ; a large and spacious rapid River , accommodated both with Trout and Salmon : but the Access lies too open , more especially amongst her pleasant gliding Streams , where the Angler , if Lord of his Exercise , may expect incredible Entertainments : whose Foundations are laid in gravelly Sand , and interchangably mix'd with shining Stones that look not unlike to golden Granulaes : but were they such , I should fancy Tagus but a Toy to it . Because to imprint in the Angler's Memory those remarkable Characters of shining Rocks , glittering Sands , and falls of Water , which 'tis morally impossible he should ever forget . Not far from this dingy Castle of Glorret , stands delectable Kilsieth ; in whose martial Fields , Marquess Montross defeated his Country-Men . North-West from thence we must top those burdened Mountains of Compsy , whose weeping Rocks moisten the Air , representing the Spouts ; and are a lively Emblem of the Cataracts of Nile . From whence we descend to the Kirk of Compsy ; near to which Kirk runs the memorable Anderwick , a rapid River of strong and stiff Streams ; whose fertil Banks refresh the Borderer , and whose Fords , if well examined , are Arguments sufficient to convince the Angler of Trout ; as are her Deeps , when consulted , the noble Race and Treasure of Salmon ; or remonstrate his Ignorance in the Art of Angling . Besides this Anderwick , there are many other small Rivulets that glide up and down these solitary Parts , omitted in this Paragraph , because not having time to insert them . Th. This travelling State ( Arnoldus ) reminds me of the old Proverb ( viz. ) A rolling Stone gathers no Moss , nor we any Money ; which runs somewhat parallel . But it 's all one in time , for time must be untim'd in the Cusp of Eternity ; then shall we be found in an Eternal state : and as Eternity is infinite in it self , so is it the Ray of the Majesty of God , who created the Heavens , the Elements and Orbs ; and gave unto them perpetual Motion and Rotation , predestinated to the Ends of Time , unmeasurable by any except himself . Whilst thus contemplating what 's Sacred and Divine , we trace along the gliding Streams of Anderwick , guarded with Trees , and knotty Rocks ; as delightful and pleasant , for ought I know , as were the myrtle Groves , so sonneted by Poets . Ar. As I am of your Opinion in that , so I suppose you 'r of mine in this , that though Sin untune the Strings of the Soul , yet Sin cannot unstring the Soul ; the Faculties are left still , though in such disorder , that all the Wit of Man can no more tune them , than the Strings of an untun'd Lute can dispose themselves for Harmony , without a skilful Musician's Hand . By this we know God governs the World , who also rules in the Heart of Man , and makes it a Temple for the Holy Ghost . So let us pass on with our travelling Design ( by the House of Cardrus ) to the Ports of Sterling ; where stands a beautiful and imbellished Castle , elevated on the Precipice of an impregnable Rock , that commands the Vallies , ( as well as the Town ) and all those habitable Parts about it : those are the Turrets that present before us , let us enter her Ports , both strong and spacious ; whose incircling Arms surround a City , ( but not a great one ) that 's built all with Stone ; so is her Castle ; and situated close by the River Firth , as above explain'd , upon lofty , craggy , and mountanous Rocks , almost inaccessable . More Southward yet the City spreads it self into many sweet Situations , that invigorate the Inhabitants , and accommodate the Low-land Merchant rather than the Mariner with profitable Returns from the Hills , by the Highlander . The Firth runs here that washeth and melts the Foundations of the City , but relieves the Country with her plenty of Salmon ; where the Burgo-masters ( as in many other parts of Scotland ) are compell'd to reinforce an ancient Statute , that commands all Masters and others , not to force nor compel any Servant , or an Apprentice , to feed upon Salmon more than thrice a Week . Th. Is there such a Law in force now ? Ar. Yes sure , for ought I know it remains to this Day : and the Reason of it is , as I conceive , from the plenty of Salmon in these Northern Parts ; that should the Inhabitants daily feed upon them , they would inevitably endanger their Health , if not their Lives , by Surfeiting ; for the abundance of Salmon hereabouts in these Parts is hardly to be credited . And the Reader I fancy will be of my Perswasion , when he comes to consider that the price of a Salmon formerly exceeded the value of Sixpence Sterling , which I suppose no English Man will grudg , nor think it unreasonable to give at any time ; so that the Danger , in my Opinion , lies most in the Diet : for as Salmon is a Fish very apt to surfeit , more especially fresh Salmon , when only boiled ; which if too frequently fed on , relaxes the Belly , and makes the Passages so slippery , that the retentive Faculties become debilitated ; so suffers the Body to be hurried into a Flux , and sometimes into a Fever , as pernicious as Death . Which is much better prevented by Abstinency , than to stand the Test of uncorrected Physick . This famous Firth is the most portable River in Scotland , whose Streams because meandring , make it deep and torpid ; so fit it for Navigation : for below Bridg there are neither Streams nor Sharps : but above Bridg there 's enough , more especially towards the flourishing Fields of Montieth ; which I rather prefer , than Alan and Althrwery , for the Anglers Diversion , except Frith and Koak ; the one for Pearl , but the other for Trout . Th. What Town is this ? Ar. Dirty Dumblain ; let us pass by it , and not cumber our Discourse with so inconsiderable a Corporation : our itch after Mockeny puts a Spur to quicken our Expectation : for who knows but the various alteration of Weather may in some measure frustrate those Expectations we may have of those admirable Streams to answer our Designs ? Th. Do what you please . Ar. Truly I think it but Time lost , to survey the Reliques of a ruinous heap of Stones , that lean o're the Verge of a River , facing the Mountains . The Houses it's true are built with Stone , but then to consider them low and little , it plainly demonstrates there 's nothing eminent but narrow Streets , and dirty Houses ; a convincing Argument there 's no Scavengers amongst them . And for their Houswifery , let that alone ; for if you touch it , you sully your Fingers . There is a Market-place , such an one as it is ; but as for Merchants , there 's no such thing in Nature : But a Palace there is , and a Cathedral too , otherwise Dumblain had nothing to boast of . But there is one thing remarkable , and that 's the House of Domine Caudwel ( a formal Pedagogue ) that absolv'd the Thief , and conceal'd the Theft , so lost his Breeches : for you must know the good Woman his Wife was a notable Comer , one of the first Magnitude ; who with two more of her Consorts ( as I was told at a Four-hours drinking ) guzled down as much Ale and Brandy , Wine and strong Waters as amounted to the Sum of forty Pound Scots . But wanting Money to pay her Reckoning , she liberally pawned her Husbands Breeches ; and he like a Fop to redeem his Wife's Reputation , would never redeem his Breeches , lest suspecting they should smell of the Tears of the Tankerd . And here , as reported , was celebrated that famous Union of Doh and Doris , stark Love and Kindness , a Custom inviolable . Here also resided jovial Bille Sinclear . Now you are to consider , that this pittiful pedling Corporation of Dumblain , has little or no Trade amongst them , except now and then a truck with a Brandy-Man , a Tobacco Merchant , or a Brewster-wife ; for Ale , Tobacco and strong Waters are the Staple of the Town : And so let us leave them to pursue our intended design for Minever , and Dromon-Castle , that stands distant about some three Miles from the Bridg of Ardoh ; where there runs a small Rivulet of a rapid Motion , paved with a slaty Bottom ; but the Access difficult . And here we cross the Moor to Mockeny , whose limpid Streams are pleasant beyond Report , and her Fords generally furnished with Trout , as if Nature had there designed to entertain the Contemplative Angler , in those liberal Streams : where the Artist in a storm may shelter himself under shady Trees , elevated upon lofty Mountains , over the melting amorous smiling Banks ; as if the Boughs were Barnicles , and ready to drop into the silent glittering Streams , that glide softly along a delightful Meadow ; excepting here and there some small Cataracts of Water that tumble down a Precipice of Rocks , that encircles and surrounds great Stones in the sandy Foundation of this mystical Mockeny ; whose glittering Sholes are gently moved by the soft breathings of Zephyrus , that dash the smaller Waves a Shore , and discover to the Angler the intricate Angles of Mockeny ; so that here we assume a Poetick Liberty , in some sort to call Scotland , Arcadia . Th. This is a pretty Romantick Notion . Ar. Call it what you will , you will find it so , when you come but a Mile below the Bridg , over which we must pass from Dromon to Tillebarn ; there you 'l see a large and spacious Rock , that surrounds the Water on every side , so makes a Dam near the Stern of a Mill , on the Skirts of Mockeny ; where swiftly , yet sweetly , the Water glides along those knotty craggy Torrs and Cliffs , till at last ariving at an astonishing Precipice ; where dilating it self , yet as if unwilling to be divided , on a sudden you shall see such Trepidations on the Surface , as if the Streams were sensible to apprehend a Fear ; and Waters not separate without Grief at parting . Th. Now you begin to be Metaphorical . Ar. There 's no Metaphor in 't . Have not you seen burdened Clouds embodied with the Treasures of Rain , ready to distil ? if so , then look on the top of that craggy Mountain , and there you may see , as if the Waters by a prophetick Foresight had foreknowledg of a disjunction , exprest by their melting Drops : Nay , the Rocks themselves are heard to murmur , and the very Winds to whisper Rebellion . This is the place of those harmonious Descants , which I fancy musical , and syrenical charming Notes betwixt Neptune and Aeolus . So that I 'm of Opinion Waters make Musick ; and he that doubts it , let him Angle for Anchovies . Th. Surely you fetch'd this Notion a great way from Home . Ar. It 's no matter where I fetch'd it , it 's here now . This natural Precipice shall evidence for me , at the Sun's Declination , when he shades his Beams in Thetis Lap , and the purple Pavilion of Night overspreads the Creation ; then you may see a chequered rocky Pavement emboss'd like the Firmament , with spangled Stars ; where those elevated Waters ( Emblems of Clouds ) no sooner approach this natural Precipice , but Boreas bustles to curl the softned Streams , with such surly Salutes as force a separation , so makes obvious Discoveries of Nature's Artifice , so naturally delineated , that the more ingenious Observer would conclude it Artificial . Over which Precipice the Waters pass with a swift , but silent Motion to a Cristaline Fountain guarded with Rocks , and the Ornament of Trees ; at whose descent runs a Rivulet , that divides a Medow worthy a Description , could we but describe it , by reason of the Variety it naturally affords . Th. I am still in the dark . What mean all these Metaphors ? Ar. You will know the meaning of them by and by . Look up to those solitary Mountains , situated South , and you shall see them send a pleasant Smile towards the North. Yet because wanting the beautiful Ornament of Trees , a Sheep in a Shower cannot shelter her self . But on the North side , there stands inaccessible Torrs , with Cliffs and Rocks well burdened with Timber , resembling , as to my Fancy , a Hermit's Cell ; or a solitary Reception for the Rosy-Crucian . But Nature ( and not the Native ) appropriates them to other Uses , where a Country seems barren of so great Devotion , I had almost said Charity , but some will say Humanity ; however these Holes serve the Foxes to earth in , the Rivers for Fish , and the Otter to swim in ; the Meadows and Pastures for Sheep to graze in ; the Trees reception for innocent Birds , and the Shrub Protection for the timorous Hare . Th. There is something yet behind the Curtain I perceive . Arnoldus . Mockeny , O Mockeny ; must I leave thee when Thy Banks o'reflow with Pleasure ? Must I then Be banish'd from those pleasant Draughts that I Have often stoln , when as thy Streams stole by ? Besides , those pleasant Sleeps that I have had Vpon thy Rocks , until thy Skies were clad Almost with Darkness ; when the Angler's Art Exprest a Grief ; nay , double Grief to part And leave such harmless Toils : tell me , Can those That never knew the Art , the Art disclose ? How shall they know what Patience is , and write Of Mysteries they never had a sight ? None but the Anglers can ; and this I 'le say , None have the Gift of Patience more than they . Th. Now it is out . Ar. And now you think you have it ; let us relinquish the sweet Streams of Mockeny , and steer our Course for Dromon ; and there you shall see the Majestick Brow of a Rock , and a Castle inoculated to it . Th. And what of that , if they are undistinguishable one from another ? Ar. There you 'l see how the Artist form'd this formidable Structure to imitate Nature , but the Natural Strength defaceth the Ornaments of Art. However let us step one step further into the Garden ( demolished with Age , or rather Neglect ) to view the Curiosities of those remaining Reliques . Th. What must we expect there ? Ar. A beautiful Arbour adorn'd with primp Hedges ; and a sumptuous Dial , to tell us the Hour of the Day . Th. A wonderful piece of Curiosity . Ar. So it is , in this Angle of Scotland ; for Dromon lies just at the foot of the Highlands , surrounded with Woods of Fir , Ash and Elm ; but Sycomores grow here to an amazing bigness , whose spreading Arms shade the Soil about them ; and their Bole and Brisk burden the Earth . Th. What else is there here remarkable ? Ar. The Rills , Rivers , Loughs and Rivulets that meander not far from Dromon . And Leadnock , as I take it , is the first small Rivulet , and Rothwel the next ; both of them furnished with delicate small Trout . But continuing our Course , we advance to Lough Ern ; immerg'd with Moors and Mountains , yet it floats on the Skirts of the Highlands : From whence rusheth forth a violet Torrent , whose boistrous Streams are suddenly converted into a River , which bears the Name of the Lough : whose Streams , if well examined , are never unfurnished with Trout , nor are her more solid Deeps unaccommodated with the Race of Salmon , besides Pike , and Perch ; and for Silver-bellied Eels , Scotland has none better ; nor do I believe any part of the World has . So that the River Ern , for variety and choice of Fish , is inferiour to no other River in Scotland . Th. Now you say something to purpose ; pray go on . Ar. Here we must cross some of these Fords , if we intend to touch at Lough Minever , whose flourishing Deeps charm the Angler , and enchant the Fish. Nay , I must tell you , that this Lough Minever is plentifully stored with Pike , that contributes to the Artist , the largest Lucit in Scotland ; on the Skirts of whose rotten Foundations , there remain as yet the Reliques of an antient Castle , but so tatter'd and torn , and o're-grown with Age , that nothing is left on it now worthy a Description ; nay , probably in its flourishing Times there was but little to describe . A little more than a Mile from this Lough Minever , and nearer yet to the Body of the Highlands , Lough Torret tumbles down her rapid Streams that melt into a River , and is called Glen-Torret ; because , as I suppose , having its Original from the Glen , and the craggy Clifts and Tors to which it is espoused , where the Angler may accommodate himself with Eel and Trout : But for more Varieties , he must fish somewhere else . Beneath the Descents of Torret , are the swelling Banks of Kelthy , in whose rocky Bowels the Trouts shine yellow . Distant yet more North , and inclining West , beyond this craggy Kelthy , there runs a Rivulet which the Natives call Shaggy , the only Rivulet in Scotland for the Contemplative Angler ; not only by reason of the great quantity of Trout it contains ; nor is it because it 's so narrowly begirt with delightful Hills and flourishing Trees , that hang dangling about them ; nor is it because of her rocky Mountains , through which the Waters continually issue , and tumble down like the Cataracts of Nile , though they make not such a Noise ; but here it was that I found my self surrounded with Fountains , and mellifluous Aviaries of sweet singing Birds that melted the Air. And here it was above the Kirk of Moinee , where methought I only envied the rude Inhabitants , because so happily bless'd with such sweet Accommodations . But below this Kirk of Moinee stands a tottering Bridg , and below the Bridg there 's a most pleasant Level , where the sparkling Sands seem gilded with glittering Streams : And the River so naturally fretted and beautified with Stone , as if Nature intended there also to compensare the Contemplative Angler . Here also the Trouts shine with a glittering Blackness , and swell with Thickness ; yet never arrive to that magnitude of Proportion , as to parallel and vie with those in Pitloyl . More South from Moinee , runs the River Almont , a Derivative from the Mountains , and not from the rotten and spungy Foundations of the Moors , through which it glides : Nor has it any Claim or Title from the Lough Minever , as superstitiously surmiz'd by the unintelligible Inhabitant . Now besides this Almont , there 's not another River or Rivulet hereabouts worth our mentioning , except the Poe , in whose little Pools there are Perch and Pike , and now and then a lusty Trout . But I had almost forgot the Lough called Balloh , at the Foot of Drumon , wherein there is Perch , but not a Trout ; and truly I question if there be a Pike . Th. O Arnoldus , who could ever have imagined such charming Temptations amongst a People so unpolished in Art , and a Country without Cultivation ? Here 's all Miracle of Rivers and Rivulets , and as miraculously furnished with Fish. What shall I say , or what shall I think , if not to contemplate these solitary Fields , as pleasant and delightful as Fools Paradise , by Fondlings called Elizium ? Who can deny himself such diverting Associates , ( though in a rude part of a Country ) when their Rivers and Rivulets are so liberally furnished with Trout ? What pity is it to leave such Entertainments behind us , to ramble the remote Northern Tracts of Scotland , where the Eves e're long will hang with Icikles ? Ar. It may be so , for here we cannot stay to inhabit , nor any longer enjoy these solitary Recreations ; we must steer our Course by the North Pole , and relinquish those flourishing Fields of Kintire and Innerary ; the pleasant Bounds of Marquess Argile , which very few English-men have made discovery of , to inform us of the Glory of the Western Highlands , enrich'd with Grain , of the the plenty of Herbage . But how the Highlander will vindicate Bowhider and Lohabbor , with Reven in Badanoch , that I know not ; for there they live like Lairds , and die like Loons , hating to work , and no Credit to borrow , they make Depredations , so rob their Neighbours . But let not Kintire , like an Ignis fatuus , lead us out of the way , our Stars direct to Tippermore . Th. Why to Tippermore , is there any thing remarkable there ? Ar. Yes , There 's this Remark as a Monument , ( fatal to the Covenanters ) for here again it was that Marquess Montross routed his Country-men . But our next Stage is to the Town of St. Iohnston's ( very little different from those Imbellishments of Sterling ) ; East from the Town lie those flourishing Meadows they call the Ince , where a Citadel was erected and surrounded by the Navigable Tay , ( that washes those Sandy Banks and Shores ) which no sooner mingles her Streams with Dundee , but she loseth her Name by espousing with the Ocean . Th. Is this the River Tay , so much discours'd by the Highlanders ? Ar. They have reason to discourse it , for it leads into the Hills : Moreover , it supplies them , as all the Inhabitants hereabouts , with fresh Fish , to whom she contributes all her Accommodations . Now over this Tay , at the North end of the Town , there stood a stone Bridg that leads to Kennule ; a mountanous Place that tantaliz'd the Taylor with an invisible Stone : it 's a pleasant Story , but I 'm unwilling to tell it , lest fearing to draw the Maleson of the Natives upon me . Th. Never trouble your self with that ; was it my Task , I should venture a Relation freely , with all the Circumstances , whatever came on 't . Ar. I think I dread their Clamour as little as any body ; therefore I 'le proceed , and tell you the Story . In this Town of St. Iohnstons liv'd a pragmatical Taylor , ( as Taylors you know for the most part are ) but here they call a Taylor Master-fahioner for sooth , and that you must know makes him one step higher . But to the Story ; This infatuated Taylor , with some other idle Coxcombs , in all respects as conceited as himself , went on a certain time to these Mountains of Kennule , to search thereabouts for an invisible Stone , that accidentally slipt from a stranger's Hand , as he carelessly rid along to view the Country . This strange Accident made a horrible Noise all here about ; and all diligence possible was used by the Taylor and his nitty Companions to find this Stone ; yet the Stone was invisible . Now amongst the rest of our Admirers , the Lady of Kennule entertains the Novel ; and resolves an adventure for the invisible Stone , who with her Female Attendants several times surrounded the Hills , and stooped to take up every shining Stone ; so that for the most part they were always in Motion , except at other times upon the removal of Stones , with Responses to one another in the Scotish Dialect . I see ye , see ye me , till almost every Body see them all . So asham'd at length to prosecute the Design any farther , ( since stretch'd so far , it was ready to break ) despairing of their Enterprize , and the recovery of the Stone , they left their Successes to the indefatigable Taylor , and his prickear'd Crew ; that Day after Day so hounded these Hills , as hitherto no Church-yard has been haunted with Goblins . But on a certain Sun-shiny Day ( in the Evening ) as some Townsmen were returning from the Ports of Dundee , and espying the Taylor inspecting the Stones , one of these Townsmen ( I 'le warrant him a Wag ) dismounts from his Horse , having dealt with his Companions to take him to Town : who the better to manage his contriv'd Design , and put a Trick upon the nitty Taylor , kept at a distance behind him ; till at length he calls aloud , as the Lady and her Women had formerly done . I see ye , see ye me . But the Taylor on a sudden , because seemingly surpriz'd , replies , in fa Sir I tro I see ye . However , the Townsman pretends to be serious , ( and the rather , because seeing the Taylor all alone ) till at length the Taylor concludes him in Earnest . So that now being freed from Suspicion on both sides , they jog on together ( like Tory and Trimmer ) the uneaven Tracts of these mountainous Ascents ; till the Taylor stooping to take up a Stone , and confidently bleating aloud to the Townsman ; I see ye Sir , see ye me ? In gude fa Sir , no , the Townsman replied ; where are you won Sir I can no see ye ? I am here , quo the Taylor , and can ye no see me ? I would you were any where the Townsman replied , so that I could but tell where to find ye ; And smiling to himself looks another way ; then repeats it again , But whar shall I find ye ? Now for certain , quo the Taylor , I have got the Stone , by which means , beyond measure , I 'le inrich my self , for I have tryed all ways to do it without a Court of Conscience . How many People have sought for this Treasure , but no Man so happy as my self to find it ? I may go where I will , for no Man can see me ; and stand where I please , for no Man can find me ; and take what I list , ( for Taylors are thievish ) and no Man detect me ; and if Fear affrights me , yet no Man can hurt me . To convince the World therefore , and Mankind in general of this rare and admirable invisible Stone , I 'le strip off my Clothes and go stark naked through the Streets of the Town , and so mist all the Eyes of the People about me , that no Body shall see me , nor any Body know me . Know you , says the Townsman , no Body can see you ; then how should they know you . Say you so , quo the Taylor ; can no Body see me ? No , says the Townsman , since you made your self invisible . Why then , quo the Taylor , I may do what I will , and go where I list , and no Man the wiser . So you may , says the Townsman , since now you 'r Invisible . But favour me I beseech you this small Request , that before we depart I may once again see you . With that the proud Taylor transported with Joy , discharged both his Hands , and laid down the Stones . Which his subtile Associate no sooner observes , but presently he cries aloud , Now Sir I see you . And more to strengthen and confirm the Miracle , on a sudden the Taylor snatch'd up the Stones again , lest fearing his Companion should by some Trick deprive him ; and fancying himself , as formerly , invisible , they both advance towards the Town of St. Iohnston's . But the Taylor went naked , who no sooner entred the Ports of the Town , but the Mob and the Rabble having combined together to pelt the poor Taylor into his Senses , if possible , who run the Gantelop through Thick and Thin , Young and Old , for every Boy had a switch at his Breech ; and those at a distance that could not reach him , assaulted him with Stones ; which so claw'd the poor Taylor , as by the marks on his Buttocks , conviced him at last to believe himself Visible . Th. I think the Taylor met with his Match . Ar. So think I , if he was not overmatch'd . And so let 's leave him to lick himself whole , whilst we return to the Bridg of the Town of St. Iohnston's , where a Coker-Boat serves now to transport their Merchandize into the County of Angus , and some other Parts ; which looks somewhat odly , but it concerns not us , for we can't redress it ; those that are compell'd may suffer by it . So let her sleep the Sleep of Oblivion , whilst we direct our Course towards the River Errit , where we may inform our selves of a Practice amongst the Natives there , that murder a Salmon without a Rod , Net , or Speer ; and cook him almost as soon as they catch him . Th. How can that be ? pray unfold the Riddle . Ar. It 's discours'd by every Body , when a Stranger comes amongst them , that the Inhabitants presently run and fetch a Pot , which they circumspectly place upon some part of a Rock , and then dextrously convey some live Coals under it , ( or it may be Turf ) which is no sooner fan'd by the Breath of Air , but immediately the Flames fly all about . Now you are to consider that the Race of Salmon , especially the Female in the Vernon Aequinox , is for the most part picking and casting against the rapid And in this River Errit it 's always observable , there are plenty of stumpy knotty Rocks , to which the Native , without difficulty , can pass and repass from one Rock to another ; and the rather to facilitate this mortal Design , they set the Pot on some seeming floating Rock , to which ( as I am told ) their Observation directs them ; which Rock , it may be , is almost drown'd in Water . Now this Artifice is no sooner perform'd by the rude Engineer , but the Salmon , because casting after her usual manner , often casts away her Life , by leaping into the Pot instead of the Pool . Th. I cannot approve of this murdering Artifice . Ar. Nor I neither ; but the manner of Action is thus performed . For the Salmon you must know , by reason of agility of Body , ( and considerable Strength ) so bends and contracts her self , by taking her Tail ( as suppos'd ) in her Teeth ; then , like a well-tempered Spring that suddenly and smartly unbends and flies off ; even so doth the Salmon with a strange Dexterity , mount the Air ( out of the Water ) an incredible height ; But because unprecautioned how to distinguish the Elements , and perhaps wanting foresight of this imminent Danger , she frequently encounters the boiling Water , which no sooner she touches , but her Life is snatch'd away by the suffocating Fumes , that immediately strangle her ; and thus the poor Salmon becomes a Prey to the Native , when only in the pursuit of Nature's Dictates , whose Laws and Rules are circumscrib'd and bounded by the Soveraignty of him that made the Creation . Th. This I must needs say is a barbarous Practice , but a quick way of Cookery . Ar. Such kind of Cookery will serve a Scots Commoner , as lives on the Bray and Skirts of the Highlands . But we relinquish these pleasant Streams of Errit , to patrole the Fields of Cooper in Angus , where Scotland's great General ( the Earl of Leven ) was born promiscously of obscure Parents . In this little Corporation of Cooper in Angus , the chief Magistrate is a Bayliff , Master sometimes of a Brewster-house ; where we may refresh our selves , before we trample the Sands of Ilay , imbellished with Rocks , and lofty Trees that shade her shining murmuring Streams , and shelter her numerous Sholes of Fish , especially towards her Source : where you may observe the Shores shine of a golden Colour , resembling the glittering Sands of Tagus . And the River Dean so fam'd for Pike ( though unfortunate for Trout ) gulphs into Ilay near Mighill-bridg . Th. What place is this ? Ar. Old Drumkelbo , an ancient supernnuated Castle , that adjoins to a certain Moor called Tipprosin ; which in my Opinion resembles the Stygean Lake , ( rather than the Elizium Fields ) whose solitary Bounds are large and spacious , mossy and boggy , full of Pits and horrid Blackness ; a Resemblance ( to my fancy ) of the Courts of Death . Now this Tipprofin got its Name from an unfortunate Priest , that travelling those unfrequented Tracts , accidentally fell into a Mossy Moorish , Boggy Pit ; which sudden Disaster surpriz'd the Priest , and the rather , because , when to see himself plung'd into the Arms of Death , without any prospect of timely relief , this made the poor Priest unlock the doors of his Lips , that like double Diapazons unlock'd the Air sooner than the Ears of the obdurate Native , that inhabited the Verge of this solitary Moor. So that by this time finding his Complaints insuccessful , only the repetition of his dolorous Cries from reverberating Rocks and Cavities of Earth , it stirr'd up a sorrowful Silence in the Priest , which at last led him into a profound Contemplation ; fancying to himself he liv'd now in his Grave , and every Object a Caput Mortuum . Th. The Priest , I perceive , was in a very bad Pickle . Ar. And so would you , had you been in his Case ; but this Meditation no sooner expires , when the Bogs and Moors ecchoe again with such hideous Shouts , and dismal Cries from the terrified Priest , as if some Evistre or Apparition had presented before him the horrible and terrible Apprehensions of Death : but it hapned otherwise ( and it 's well it did ) for some Natives and Inhabitants of the Fields in Angus ( were breaking of Earth , and digging for Turf ) who hearing a Noise , and an imperfect Sound , as they thought , breathing from the Bowels of the Earth , it dreadfully startled them at first : but after some time , deliberating among themselves , and resolving , if possible , to sum up the Cause of these horrible Cries ; their Ears were a second time assaulted , by a fresh supply of miserable Lamentations that sprung from the repeated Complaints of the poor pensive Priest , who was almost come to a Period , and winding up the Bottoms of his dolorous Howlings . Th. But the Priest , I hope , got relief at last , who it may be till then had forgot how to pray . Ar. You cannot forbear jerking the Priest , who by this time seem'd destitute of all moral Comforts , and as little hopes of Relief , notwithstanding his breathings forth of a formal Penance , lamenting his unfortunate , unlucky Mischance , that threatned his Exit , if no more Priests in Scotland . So in a fainting Fit , he faintly cries out with an articulate Voice , because his Breath began now to expire , which certainly had in a very short time extinguished , had not the Inhabitants pursued the Ecchoes to that dismal Pit where the Priest lay bogg'd ; imploring the Deity , with Eyes and Hands held up towards Heaven , using these and the like Expressions , Ex profunditatibus te inclamavi , Iehova . And though the People understood not his Latin , yet their Lenity and common Charity , with other requisite Endeavours , brought him Relief , and hal'd him sorth out of his formidable Confinement . Since which remarkable Time , to this very Day , the Natives and Inhabitants that inhabit thereabouts , do call this Moor by the Name of Tipprofin . Th. Why then it seems he christned the Moor. Ar. And you seem here to christen the Priest , for the Priest gave Name to the Moor of Tipprofin ; and the Witches ( if there be such ) gave name to Pitloil : as if Priestcraft and Witchcraft were inseparable Companions . Th. What 's amiss now at the Lough of Pitloil ? Ar. You shall have it when I can come at it , and that won't be long first . South and by East from these mountanous Elevations , we discover two large and spacious Loughs ; the one of them is called by the Name of Loundy ; but the other Lough is called Pitloil , divided from each other by an Isthmus of Land , or the interposition of a small Mountain . I frequented them both to fish for Perch , because to my Experience the largest in Scotland , if twenty Inches and better can be thought a large Perch : and having to my Curiosity examined them apart , more especially Pitloil , I declare it as my Opinion from several Examinations ( and approved Experiments ) that both of them super-abound with plenty of Perch ; which infinitely augments the Angler's Entertainments : Nor do the Waters mingle one with another , when each of them find a different Passage , to discharge themselves into the Streams of Tay. But in this Narrative I thought requisite to inform you , that Lundy exceeds by much in plenty , though Pitloil to a Miracle exceeds in largeness . But Van Helmont tells you , in Fol. 684. That in the Lake of Lemane , a Trout doth oftentimes ascend unto an hundred pound Weight . And the Natives that inhabit this solitary Part of Angus , will tell you of Trouts of such vast Dimensions , that I dare not report without being suspected ; so render my self and Relation ridiculous . A Trout also was taken in the River at Ware , and presented to Charles the First , then King of England , which Trout was of such a vast Proportion , as would seem incredible for me to report ; which for any Man's satisfaction the Figure of it as yet remains ( for ought I know ) at the George-Inn in Ware , to convince the Incredulous , if any be suspicious . A Pike also Van Helmont tells of , that a Sign hung on him is noted to have lived three hundred Years , and to have grown to an amazing Bigness ; nor then to have died , but by a vioIent Death . Great Pikes I have also observ'd to be taken out of the Lough of Minever , that have measured more than a Yard and a half ; and such were surprized with a Hook and Line . So in the Rivers of Lire ( nigh the Village Rumst ) an Eel was taken , which was sent to Bruxels , unto the Emperour Charles the First ; which was observed to have been seventeen Foot in Length . Another notable Relation I have from a Gentleman , born in Nottingham-shire ; his Name is Armstrong , whose Grandfather very much affected the Rod : and Trolling in some River there-abouts , but whether in Trent or the River Soar , he remembers not ; however he encountred a lusty Pike that disarm'd him , both of his Hook and his Hopes at once : so melancholy he left off his Recreation for that time , but the ensuing Day presented an occasion for our Angler to travel ; and as his Custom was , after dispatch of Business , he mingled some solitary Recreation with his Employment . So steering his Course to the Water-side , and viewing the Fords , he observes a Shole of Fish fly to the Shallows for Sanctuary ; by which he imagined the Fry was assaulted : so that presently near the Deeps , he lets his Bait drop ; which unexpectedly was suddenly encountred ; and he like an Artist , gave his Examinant the Law of fair Play , so destroyed his Assailant : and having by this time landed his Adventure , he presently goes about to discharge his Arming , but reaching forth his Hand to disgorge his Captive , he becomes suddenly surpriz'd , because then to find in the late conquered Fish , not only one Hook , but another also ; which he certainly knew to be his own , that but the Day before was forced away from him ; which after examination , he found it was . Now this Fish was observed to have travelled fifteen Miles in twenty four Hours . For that end I offer this discourse , that the travelling Fish never arrives to that maturity of Growth , as does the Fish that is idle and slothful ; for by how much his Motion is in the River , by so much the better and more nutritious is the Fish. Now that Witches inhabit near this Lough of Pitloil , I am of Opinion , provided there be any . But whether there be , or be not , such mortal Demons , I suspend my Judgment , and proceed to the Adventure . Th. I long to hear it , and you are loth to come at it . Ar. Have patience but a little , and you shall have it . Early one Morning ( before the Sun had adorned the Day with his beautiful Beam of Light to gild the azure Firmament ) I set forward , as at other times , to this fatal Lough of Pitloil ; and riding along , observ'd a large and lusty Hare ( but they call her Maukin ) sitting upon a large and gritty Stone , washing and furbishing her Face with her Feet ; and on the bought of her near Buttock ( as to my Observation ) was branded a remarkable Patch of an obscure blackish Colour , altogether different from the rest of her Fur ; which appeared to the bigness of a five Shilling piece of new minted Silver : but dismounting my Horse , she discovered me approach her with my Greyhound-Bitch , which I suddenly slipt ; and she as suddenly forsook her Station , but trusted so little to the nimbleness of her Heels , as if her Life was but of little Value . On the other hand , my Bitch was so slow in her Motion , as if they had mutually combined not to hurt one another . So leaving that pursuit to pursue my first Intention , I left the Mountains to trace Vallies to this unfortunate Lough of Pitloil ; for what hapned afterwards will commission me , I question not , so to intitle it : where I found my Greyhound Bitch , but no Fur in her Mouth . Th. What of all this ? pray be brief . Ar. I 'le be as concise as I can . That very time , I remember , a Peer of the Realm went ( with me ) in Company , to this Lough of Pitloil , to which place , when we arrived , and dismounting our Horses , to imprint our Feet on the Silver Sands , ( it 's a liberty I assume to call them so , in regard of their glittering Whiteness ) and searching for the Boat , we found it was removed into a more remote and solitary part of the Lough : so we sent some Attendants to seek for the Man that rowed the Boat ; nor were they long in their Inquisitions before they found him , as they unluckily passed by the Doors of some ill contriv'd Huts , or obscure Caves , that resembled Dungeons rather than habitable Houses ; where sometimes he usually reposed himself , there , or thereabouts , because in expectation that some or other would come that Day to visit the Lough : which happened accordingly to his apprehension . Now by that time our Attendants were come up with those Female Infernals that inhabited those Hutts , and enquiring for the Skipper to pilot the Boat , he makes himself known , that he was the Man that paddled in the Pool with a bad and crazy weather-beaten Boat. So they desired him to hasten away , with such Tools and instruments as he had to assist their Design . To all which he readily seemed to comply with , in hopes of a Gratuity which he afterwards obtained . But before they departed from those ugly Earth-holes , an ill-contrived Urchin , or a Cur out of shape , and deform'd , ( as they described him ) but we call him a Tarrier , and they by the Name of a Whitwratch , ( bastard-brood of the Fox ) as the Servants apprehended ; so might any Man as well as they rationally conclude , as by the Circumstances given us by their Description . A beautiful Spannel I had at that time ( propined me by the Lady of an eminent Peer ) followed after the Horsemen ; which the Elph in pursuit of , had fastned on him , but was suddenly rescued by my Greyhound-Bitch ( formerly discoursed ) and peradventure with some small detriment to this ugly Elph : Which when the Hag had enviously observed , she hastned in the Elph , and suddenly after was heard to express unsavory words , very Diabolical , with Charms and Threats ; besides various antick Gestures and Postures , both with her Head and Body ; that at present occasioned abundance of Laughter among them ; as it did after their departure from those sordid infernal Huts or Habitations . Th. We shall have something on 't by and by I perceive . Ar. Doubt it not ; for no sooner the Boat touched the Sands , but as soon I committed my Person to the Lough , as calm and as smooth as a Sea of Glass ; and so it continued , till the Sun 's advance to climb the Meridian : but afterwards , my fortunate Success became unsuccessful , for after his Declination the Scene was changed ; and then my Labours prov'd all Abortive , for the beautiful prospect of my Morning's Diversion , was changed and clowded with tragical Conclusions . It 's true , I went ashore to refresh my self , in regard a cold Capon , and some other good Provision was provided for me , and this Noble man's Refreshment ; who sat down with me under the Shades of Rocks , not far from the Brink of this Lough of Pitloil : where we both Eat and Drank together , till finding our selves sufficiently refresh'd ; and then I arose , and took leave of this Honourable Peer ; so returned to the Boat again , to steer my former Course ; as also to observe what interest the Lough would now afford me for those Hooks and Lines I left behind me . But no sooner I had committed my self to the Boat , and rowed to the Place where I left my Tackle , but on a sudden , and unexpectedly , I was interrupted by the loud Acclamations of some on Shore , that shouted and made Signals , by beck of Hand , ( because by this time I was almost out of distance ) advising my return : Which I no sooner interpreted , but hastned to the Shore as fast as I could ; for by their seeming disorder , as I then apprehended , some unexpected Accident had hapned amongst them . So that I forcibly forced my Passage through the thickest Waves ; and being by this time arrived on Shore , I was entertained with the unwelcome News of my Land-spaniel's Indisposition ; but too late I found to rescue him from Death . So reflecting on my self , that Beginnings have Conclusions , I directed my Steps back again to the Boat , to recover my armed Tackle left behind , on purpose to surprize such Fish as were shame-fac'd to bite before me . Now this was the third Time I entred the Boat , in order to pursue my Angling Enterprize : when a fresh Summons alarms me from the ecchoing Shores , to come back and testify another strange Accident , not inferiour to the former ; because to stand by as an Evidence , and see my Greyhound-Bitch lie a dying ; whom I presently found as stiff as a Stake , ( or a Stump ) whilst as yet her Body was as warm as Wool : nor could I say she was totally Dead , yet I 'm sure she was altogether depriv'd of Motion . So I hastned from the Morts , and returned to the Lough , to draw up my Lines which I left behind me ; and though having met with too such fatal discouraging Accidents ( with solicitations from this Honourable Person ) I pursued my first Intention ; so brought off my Lines , and left the Lough in a foming Rage ; and now you shall hear what hapned on Shore . Not far from this Lough , stood a small Mountain , whereon some Inhabitants had built a Kiln ; to which Place we directed a Servant for Fire , that presently brought it , but we hardly knew the use on 't , before the Kiln was all in Flames ; and burnt so vehemently , that in a short space the whole Fabrick was consum'd and burnt down to the Ground : So I left my Recreation , and took my leave of the unfortunate Pitloil . And now give me leave to return to Drumkelbo-Castle , and tho but ill contrived , and as ill situated , in regard it stands near to the Moor of Tipprofin ; yet not far from thence are the flourishing Fields of Mighill , beautified and adorned with stately Sycomores ; as are her Meadows surrounded with Rivers and Rivulets . In the midst of whose Plains stands a Parochial Church , wherein lies interr'd the Royal Corps of King Arthur's Consort ; with the Reliques of some other weather-beaten Monuments that Age has almost blotted out ; but the Queen's Tomb I observed was surrounded with Martialists , that when living so , in Death paid Homage at her Princely Sepulchre . These are those cultivated Fields of Mighill , where King Arthur's Stone stands to this very Day . It 's true , because Traditional among the Antiquaries , and why not as true because a Superstition amongst the Inhabitants , who will tell you with as much Confidence as they mumble their Pater Noster , or with as much Impudence as you can credit with ignorance , that that very Stone was King Arthur's Table , when his Royal Campaign encamp'd in those Fields ; which he left behind him as a Relique to Posterity ? Th. Or rather because he could not take it with him . Ar. You will have your Joke , I perceive ; however I 'le proceed to the pleasant Banks of Ilay , where the Angler , without difficulty , may take a view of a large and spacious River of translucid Streams ; where a Storm seldom invades the Shores , nor any immoderate Winds much to incommode them , in regard the Water runs most on a level , and the Banks very blough ; more especially when attempting the Head of Reven , where the Angler may observe most rapid Falls and stiff Streams , which are seldom or never unaccommodated with Trout , besides the generous Race of Salmon , the Nature of whose Sex and Species ( this Opportunity presenting ) invites me to discover a most admirable Secret. For as I was angling one time on a Sun-shiny Day , in these limpid and transparent Streams of Ilay , I was constrained , in regard of the excessive Heat , to relinquish her inflam'd sandy Shores , to seek Umbrage ( where I could get it ) from some shady Trees : but none I found there to harbour and relieve me . However , by this time , I recovered a Meadow , which generously commoded me with a Hauthorn-bush that Nature had planted by the River side ( which served me for Sanctuary ) whose dilating Boughs , spreading as an Umbrella , they defended me from the scorching Strokes of the Sun , where also I lay closely conceal'd , the better to inspect Nature's Curiosities . For whilst reposing my self under this tiffany Shade of diversified Leaves and flourishing Twigs , that hovered over the Brinks of this amorous Ilay ; on a sudden I discovered a very large Salmon , leisurely swimming towards the Leeward-Shore : and having considered the Sun at his Meridian , I thought it needless to provoke her with Fly , or any thing else , more especially at such a time when I knew her indisposed to divert her self either with Food or Frolick . Where note , the more circumspectly I traced her with my Eye to pursue her , the more and greater still was my Admiration , because to mark her from Place to Place , till at last I saw her arrive on a Bed of Sand , which scarcely to my apprehension , covered her with Water ; for I am confident it exceeded not the depth of one Foot ; where with her Tail she rigled to and fro , so long and oft , till I visibly discovered a flat slaty blewish Stone ; over which she oft-times contracted her Body ; Nature provoking her to eject her Belly , which at last she accomplish'd , to my surprizing Amazement . But this was not all ; for as soon as that Project was performed by the Female , with most accurate Swiftness , she lanched her self forth into the more solid Deeps ; which was no sooner performed , when as suddenly I recovered the view of another , as afterwards will appear by the following Circumstances : For out of that solitary and profound Depth of Water , wherein the Female had concealed her self , there sprung up a Male ( or something like him ) that swam directly as if hal'd with a Cord , to that very Place where the former Fish had ejected her Belly , ( but some call it Spawn ) and there performed such an admirable Office , as you will hardly believe , though I tell you the Truth . Th. However , this is remarkable , pray let us have it . Ar. The Female I have told you , has shot her Belly upon a large and blewish slaty Stone ; and the Male , as by instinct to discharge his Office , dilates his Fins , and futters about , till at last he directs himself over the ejected Matter ; where with his Nose , as I then apprehended ( though I will not warrant Fish to have a Scent ) rooted as a Swine , or something like it , yet were the Waters at that time undisturbed ; when on a sudden , and with a violent motion of Body , he throws himself about , invading the Calms with such a strong Ebulition , as if some pondrous Stone had struck the Surface : but it was not long e're I see him again , though for the present he seem'd to me invisible . And then my Observation led me curiously to observe him direct his Head to the former Place , and contract himself after the same manner which the former Fish had formerly done . This I visibly and plainly saw ; which , together with his active and exerting Motion , a spermatick Whiteness of a milky Substance issued from him , not much unlike to jellied Cream : All which Remarks I signally notified , and by all the Circumstances my Judgment could direct to , I concluded him the Milter , because there to shed and scatter his Milt upon the ejected forementioned Belly ; which with my Eyes I then beheld , and visibly saw ; and therefore take the boldness confidently so to report it . Believe it that will , refute it that can ; I know no better Evidence than Eye-sight . But lest any Man , through Obstinacy , or a vain Incredulity , arraign the Truth of this my Observation ; I 'le direct him a Precedent , and go no farther than the Brood of Perch , because both are barrel-bellied Fish ; and answerable in some measure to the Race of Salmon ; which if he do , he may rationally conclude that Nature's Laws are alike to both . Now the Milter , because having discharged himself with some little Labour , and as little Trouble , suddenly recovers again the Depth of the Water , with most accurate swiftness ; nor have I rarely seen a more violent Motion : whose absence in a trice invites the Female Fish , and she no sooner returns to the Place , dictated beyond dispute by the Mediums of Nature ( which I think no wise intelligent Man will deny ) works a Trough like a Cistern in Sand or Gravel , and as near as I could guess of about her own Proportion ; into which Trough with nothing save the spring of her Tail , she jumbles and tumbles in the prima materia , according to Aristotle ; but proxima materia , if you credit Sandivogius ; who allows , a visibility of the second Matter , but not of the first : so gently she cover'd it over with Sand , and then left it to the great Luminaries for Vivification , and the Seminals , because having a prolifick Virtue , and Life-quality innated in them . Life inevitably shines forth after certain Days , Accidents omitted ; because the Lustre of Life is a thing so sacred , that the Lubeck of Conspiracy strikes to blot it out . Thus much therefore as relates to the Progeny of Salmon , I being an Eye Witness , do boldly testify ; and as boldly divulge ; if Seeing be a good Basis for any Man's belief . And this I believe , and confidently assert , and therefore report it to the World for a Truth . Th. O how rare and admirable are the Secrets of Nature ; who useth no Engine nor Artificial Prescriptions ! Your former Relations seem Prodigies in Nature ; but this , as if beyond her , surpasseth admiration . Ar. Nature made naked is nothign but Wonder , and Scotland is a Kingdom and Country of Prodigies . Look forward and behold that tott'ring Bridg , we must pass over it to the Town of Eliot , a small Country-Village , one would think it dropt out of the Skirts of the Highlands . And this is the Town where famous Leven ( Scotland's great General ) was surpriz'd in his Quarters by the English Cavalry . Not far from this Bridg of Reven , the Streams being translucid , you may see under Water irregular Rocks , and knotty broken stumps of Trees , that stand in the Streams of famous Ilay . Where the swiftness of the Current undermines the Sand , and delves great Pits that secure the Salmon from the Sentence of Death , except such as are destinated to die by the Decrees of Age , or their own extravagant Prodigality , in pursuit sometimes after fictitious Novelties ; as when they relinquish the Rocks in a Bravado , to challenge Death by a different Fortune . For then is the Time the prejudicate Native consults his Opportunity to put in execution that barbarous Practice of murdering Fish by Moon-shine , as at other times to martyr them with the blaze of a Wisp and a barbed Spear . Th. What , are these Canabals , or murdering Moss-troopers , to surprize Fish by the Engine of Fire-light ? Such dark Conspirators sprung from the Mines in Florida , Fawks , or Cataline ; or some infernal Incubus . Ar. These are those amorous Banks of Ilay , so famously extoll'd for Diversion ; for in those solitary Streams you see before you , by industry of Art , and dexterity of the Rod , I have had Trouts come ashore , and leap in my Hand . Th. That 's by reason they could leap no where else ; But how far have we now to the Bridg of Dean , discours'd every where for the plenty of Trouts ? and if Fame be a true Oracle , they tumble up and down there , till the Artist pleases to exchange their Element , and court them ashore by force of Arms. Ar. That 's the Place , near those glittering Sands , and rocky Foundations ; where you may observe the trembling Streams swiftly , yet sweetly glide along ; but not as Cataracts to terrify the Fish , by reason their Fall is so gently moderated , amongst those knotty stumpy Rocks . I call it a River enrich'd with Inhabitants ; where Rocks are Landlords , and Trouts Tenants . For here 's not a Stream but it 's furnished with Trouts ; I have angled them over from Stem to Stern , and drag'd them forth Brace after Brace , with nothing but a Hackle , or an Artificial Fly , adapted to the Season , and proportioned to the Life . Humor but the Fish , and you have his Life ; and that 's as much as you can promise your self . O the Diversion I have had in these solitary Streams ! believe me , Theophilus , it surpasseth Report . I remember on a Time , when the Clouds let fall some extravagant Drops , which in a manner discoloured the Surface of the Water , then it was that amongst those stony Cisterns , where you see the Tops of the Rocks make a visible discovery , a little above that trembling Stream , if you mind it ; there stands a stumpy craggy Rock , peeping perceptibly out of the Water . From thence , and above those slaty Foundations , I have struck , and killed many a Brace of brave Trouts ; a Reward beyond my Labour and Expence . Th. I question it not ; but what 's here , the Arcanum of Angling ? Ar. Yes sure , and the Treasure lies in those trembling Streams that come tumbling down to wash the Cheeks of those pallid Rocks ; from whence they gently glide along with generous Dews , to moisten the florid marly Banks ; and tinged as you may see with a Rubido , they strike a vivid Tincture into the flourishing Streams : and thus the Complexion of the Water was changed , ( once upon a Time ) when I fished those Streams , where the Trouts , to divert me , and augment my Entertainment , came ashore to court me ; and courteous beyond curiosity , laid their Lives in my Hand . Th. Then they gave you handsel I perceive but this is some Aenigma , pray explain it . Ar. It 's no more an Aenigma than a Trout is a Trout ; for you must suppose him an active Fish , who no sooner finds himself intangled , but he plunges , and breaks the Surface of the Streams , thinking thereby to disintangle himself , and reprieve himself from the danger of Death , that already has laid an Arrest upon him . Thus by picking and casting , he casts his Life away ; so swims ashore to hear the Angler's Doom , in whose Breast lies the Sentence of Life and Death . On a certain solitary and gloomy Day , the Face of the Firmament was sullied with Clouds , that roll'd to and fro , but did not melt . I remember I armed with a glittering Fly , the Body composed of red twisted Silk , intermingled with Silver , and an Eye of Gold , the Water in temper ( as you now observe it ) but the wing of my Fly was the dapple Feather of a Teal ; the Day , as prenoted , promiscuous and gloomy ; and the Clouds , as I told you , stained with blackness ; but no noise of Thunder disturb'd the Air , nor was there any Symptom or appearance of Rain , save only some sprinkling scattering Drops that trickled down the marly Banks , and moistned the Cheeks of the craggy Rocks ; so amalgamizing the mollified Earth with Water ( to my Observation ) invited the Fish from their Habitations ; insomuch that the Streams were not Charms strong enough to contain them , for in Frolicks , as I apprehended , they made haste to meet me ; and that was as much as to complement Death : but the Landing , I confess , was difficult enough , by reason of Distance , and the hazardous Passages I frequently encountred , because of Rocks ; which with difficulty I evaded . But that I need not recount , when only designing to recite the executive Part of Angling , in order to which my ensuing Discourse will instruct you in the Art , and in the mystical Intrigues of the Angler also . Th. Ingenious Instructions will signalize the Art easy , and impregnate the Artist . Let the Luxurious furfieit with the Sins of the Age , I 'le trace the Angler's Footsteps , and pursue this inoffensive Life , and silver Streams , to propagate and cultivate the Art ; so compleat my self an Artist in this mystical Artillery : for I can raise my Ambition no higher than the Device , Fashion , and Form of Flies ; with Advice also for their management , together with seasonable Time and Use. Ar. That was my Intention , had you never mentioned it : but were it to another , I should rather refer him to our modern Assertors . For indeed the frequent exercise of Fly-fishing , though painful , yet it 's delightful ; more especially when managed by the Methods of Art , and the practical Rules and Mediums of Artists . But the Ground-bait was of old the general Practice , and beyond dispute brought considerable Profit ; which hapned in those Days , when the Curiosity of Fly-fishing was intricate and unpracticable . However Isaac Walton ( late Author of the Compleat Angler ) has imposed upon the World this monthly Novelty , which he understood not himself ; but stuffs his Book with Morals from Dubravius and others , not giving us one Precedent of his own practical Experiments , except otherwise where he prefers the Trencher before the Troling-rod ; who lays the stress of his Arguments upon other Mens Observations , wherewith he stuffs his indigested Octavo ; so brings himself under the Angler's Censure , and the common Calamity of a Plagiary , to be pitied ( poor Man ) for his loss of Time , in scribling and transcribing other Mens Notions . These are the Drones that rob the Hive , yet flatter the Bees they bring them Honey . Th. I remember the Book , but you inculcate his Erratas : however it may pass Muster among common Mudlers . Ar. No , I think not ; for I remember in Stafford , I urged his own Argument upon him , that Pickerel weed of it self breeds Pickerel . Which Question was no sooner stated , but he transmits himself to his Authority , viz. Gesner , Dubravius , and Androvanus . Which I readily opposed , and offered my reasons to prove the contrary ; asserting , that Pickerels have been fished out of Pools and Ponds where that Weed ( for ought I knew ) never grew since the Nonage of Time , nor Pickerel ever known to have shed their Spawn there . This I propounded from a rational Conjecture of the Heronshaw , who to commode her self with the Fry of Fish , because in a great measure part of her Maintenance , probably might lap some Spawn about her Legs , in regard adhering to the Segs and Bull-rushes , near the Shallows , where the Fish shed their Spawn ; as my self and others without curiosity have observed . And this slimy Substance adhering to her Legs , &c. and she mounting the Air for another Station , in probability mounts with her . Where note , the next Pond she happily arrives at , possibly she may leave the Spawn behind her , which my Compleat Angler no sooner deliberated , but drop'd his Argument , and leaves Gesner to defend it ; so huff'd away : which rendred him rather a formal Opinionist , than a reform'd and practical Artist , because to celebrate such antiquated Records , whereby to maintain such an improbable Assertion . Th. This was to the Point , I confess ; pray go on . Ar. In his Book intituled the Compleat Angler , you may read there of various and diversified Colours , as also the Forms and Proportions of Flies . Where , poor Man , he perplexes himself to rally and scrape together such a parcel of Fragments , which he fancies Arguments convincing enough to instruct the Adult and Minority of Youth , into the slender Margin of his uncultivated Art , never made practicable by himself I 'm convinc'd . Where note , the true Character of an industrious Angler , more deservedly falls upon Merril and Faulkner ; or rather upon Isaac Owldham , a Man that fish'd Salmon but with three Hairs at Hook ; whose Collections and Experiments were lost with himself . Th. That was pity . Ar. So it was , but to thee Theophilus so well improved , if Salmon or Trout be your Recreation ; remember always to carry your Dubbing-Bag about you ; wherein there ought to be Silks of all sorts , Threads , Thrums , Moccado-ends , and Cruels of all sizes , and variety of Colours ; diversified and stained Wool , with Dogs and Bears Hair ; besides twisted fine Threads of Gold and Silver : with Feathers from the Capon , Partridg , Peacock , Pheasant , Mallard , Smith , Teal , Snite , Parrot , Heronshaw ; Paraketta , Bittern , Hobby , Phlimingo , or Indian-flush : but the Mockaw , without exception , gives flames of Life to the Hackle . Thus arm'd at all Points , with Rods Rush-grown , Hooks well temper'd , and Lines well tapered , you may practise where you please in any River in Scotland ; provided always the Season be sutable . And forget not be sure to purdue your Distance , always taking the Head of a Stream , and leisurely fish downwards ; lest your Game discover you , and flie before you . Another Observation , is the various Change and Complexion of the Water , occasioned sometimes by immoderate Gluts , intemperate and violent Gluts of Rain , Issues of Land-floods , Soil and Silt from off the Shores. These and the like Observations ought to be the consideration of every Ingenious and Practical Angler . And this is the proper Season to exercise with the Ground-bait ; for should any Man , under the pretence of an Artist , remain destitute of these prenoted Qualifications , proclaim him a Block-head ; let him angle for Oisters . Th. But what must we do when the Fords are discoloured ? Ar. I have already told you , that the Ground-bait then is most profitable for Diversion . But imagine it like this adapted for Fly. Observe those Insects , and flender Emits that accost the Streams and bubling Fords ; not doubting , but with Diligence , you may easily surprize them ; which if it succeed not to your Intention , traverse with your Eye those Landskips of Rocks , that at a distance lie buried almost under Water ; or from those knotty Brows of broken Banks , that stand within distance ; otherwise clap close down on some Flat or Level , which equals the surface of the gliding Streams : where it behoves you to condescend and stoop sometimes to your Knee , or it may be closer Order , if need so require ; always observing the hovering Fly that flutters aloft to allure the Fish , how wantonly he sports himself with Death , when to court a familiarity with that that destroys him . Th. But what if this Design prove Abortive ? Ar. You must then clap down beneath some Rock , or you may shelter your self in the Cavities of Earth : so with curious Inspection , and diligent Observation , the brightness or the gloominess of the Day considered , fashion your Device according to Art ; considering the general Cure for Proportion , as also the Season , by the Rule of Contraries . For the brighter the Day is , the obscurer your Fly ; but the more promiscuous the Season is , by so much the more ought your Fly to be bright and shining . I also advise you to prepare the Ground and Body of your Fly with Bears-hair , as at other times from the obscurities of Wool ; but then let the Head be obscure and dark , since generally most Flies their Heads are blackish . The Wing also you may strip from the Pinion of a Teal , which above measure allures the Trout to destruction . But if Novelties affect , as frequently they do , you must then consult your Flies to excel one another , if provided you design to advance your Recreation . But presupposing the Day be gloomy , as frequently it happens from melancholy Clouds — Th. What 's then to be done ? Ar. You must then consult a brighter Fly , which is better understood upon serious Practice ; for I extol no Man a Proficient in the Art , that is undisciplined in the Academy of Experience . Th. But some Men I observe are more Ingenious than othersome . Ar. Otherwise I should allot them an accidental Fate : for convinc'd by observation , I am easily perswaded that some Artists gain Experience with little Difficulty ; when as othersome acquire it not without great Industry : for where natural Endowments accommodate the highest Form in Arts , their Theory and Practicks seldom justle for precendency . Thus the Day and the Season always considered , the Artist , I fancy , may sport at leisure , provided he design Angling his Recreation . Th. Are there no Mediums set down as a Standard in the Art ? Ar. Yes surely there are , but considering your Capacity , it will add but little to those Instructions . However I 'le discover another notable Secret , though less practicable , yet probably more advantagious than adventuring a Fly according to Fashion . Th. Pray unriddle the Mystery ; it 's some Aenigma I fancy . Ar. The Paradox explained ; First take a Trout , rip up his Belly , and examine his Maw to see what remains unconcocted ; and if it be in Fly-time , you will find some there ; for he loves to insinuate himself among Insects , ( for Flies are Insects ) and are upon the main the Matter he preys on . Procrastinate no Time , for the Digestions are swift ; be quick therefore , and you will find some there ; and as near to the natural Form as your Ingenuity admits of , contrive such another in Figure and Proportion , which without delay , make an Experiment by spreading the Streams with your Artillery : and if it answer not what in reason you expect , take the freedom to proclaim me no Projector . But be cautious and circumspect in all your Approaches , and be dextrous and diligent when and how you strike . Fish by direction , but put no Force upon your Exercise ; so that when you observe your Game advance , and raise himself to encounter his Prey , fix diligently one Eye to attend his Motion and keep the other on the Point of your Rod ; avoiding all silly and foolish Circumstances ; only remember to answer a Foot exactly with that Hand that reacheth forward , beginning always at the Head of a Stream , and so patrole to parsue your Game downwards ; otherwise you may confidently assure your self , the Fish becomes Fugitive , so flies before you . Th. I shall mind your Directions , and pursue your Instructions . Ar. Well then , I 'le proceed . A calm Air you know prognosticks a Cessation of Winds ; and a Breez being wanting to furl the Deeps , by what Art will you contrive to raise a Trout in a deep , torpid , and solitary River ? Mind what is said ; be sure you stand close , and prudently conceal your self behind some Rock , or some shady Bush : then , with the hazard of nothing but a Drack , which if not attainable , then search out some other natural Fly , and dibble be sure lightly on the Surface of the Deeps , you raise him beyond dispute , and as certainly kill him ; for this natural Novel has no Compeer ; and the Artificial is but the Representation . Where note , the green Drack pleads the precedency , then the Gray ; the former from the issue or product of a Codworm ; but the latter as to observation proceeds from the Straw-bait . Th. A very significant and proper Distinction . Ar. Now besides close Order , great Curiosity is requisite in Tackle : for the more accurate the Artist is , by so much the more will the Art be express'd . For that end , let your Rod be shap'd Like a Rush , the line exactly tapered ; your Hooks well tempered , and as well compassed ; not too stiff , nor yet too pliant ; their Points well drawn out , and as sharp as Needles , but their Birbs as stiff and as strunt as Bristles ; the Wing of your Fly also well flourishd , and well pinion'd ; and so snug as to carry the Point always downward . These are necessary Observations in Trout-fishing ; more especially to the Contemplative and Ingenious Artist , rather than to those Paper-scull'd Buffoons , devoid of Reason , and as indigent of Patience , as the Man that hang'd himself , because the Hangman was not ready ; that confront the Art , because Fish won't meet them half-way ashore , and leap into their Laps before they come near the Water-side ; where you may see them stand like so many Star-gazers , gazing on the Fish , and the Surface of the Streams ; whose Aspect , if possible , would terrify a Grampus , that seldom or never satisfies their Appetite , till their avaricious Desires have victualed the Pannier . Th. These Mudlers shall never merit the Title of Anglers , nor their Arguments a better Reputation than Affronts ; Mercenary Slaves , that murder all they meet with , and hunt like Otters to accommodate the Paunch . Ar. Thus our Discourse of the River Dean has diverted us to the Fields on the North of Reven , which indeed was a considerable part of my Design ; because I might not only be said to convince you , but use you as an Argument to convince others , that the Trouts in these solitary Streams , are for Largeness , Beauty , Size and Proportion , nothing inferior to any in Scotland ; and such have I hal'd out of these purling Pits , with nothing save only a natural Fly. Th. But the Day declining , what becomes of us now ? Ar. Why now we must relinquish these rolling Streams , and those pleasant flourishing Fields of Reven that direct to Ingleston , and the Antiquities of Castleton , formerly inhabited by the English Martialists : But Castleton you must consider was only a Fort , and Ingleston ( as I am told ) their assigned Locality . Distant some two Miles from these Weather-beaten Reliques , stands the House of Glames , and the fair Feneven , situated amongst Rivulets . More Norward yet we advance upon Forfar , where we may expect as good Entertainment as the Country is capable of ; and that is good enough , since Eating and Drinking is not the main of our Design : but there stands the Town of Forfar , tell me what you think on 't ? Th. I think it 's a Town ; what would you make on 't ? Ar. Not only a Town , but a Corporation too , how're you approve on 't . Th. I approve on 't well enough , Where lies the Objection ? here 's nothing that I see presents uncomely : But how goes the Story of the good Man's Cow ? and what became of the Old Wife's Liquor ? Ar. I matter not much if I give you the Relation , as neatly drest up as the Circumstances will bear ; for there was , I 'le assure you , a very hardy Adventure , hapned betwixt the Brewster Wife , and Puggy the Cow of Billie Pringle . Th. Pray let us have it , I grow impatient to hear it ; I 'le remark the Beginning , and diligently attend the Conclusion . Ar. Then I 'le begin . Once upon a Time ( for so I was told ) within the Walls of this little Corporation of Forfar , there lived an ancient Brewster Wife , more eminent in her Art for brewing of good Ale , than all the Brewsters that lived about her ; who upon occasion of some Solemnity , had boiled up a Cauldron of stinging Stuff , to hum the Noses of some jolly good Fellows , that by Country-Custom and Rules of their own , had made an Appointment to meet there to Morrow ; which they punctually performed , but were all disappointed , because not to meet with what they came there for . Now you are to consider the Custom of the Country , which in short was this . No sooner the Alewife brews her Ale , but presently she exposeth it to the open Air , in certain Vessels which the People call Coolers , ( always provided it do not Rain ) though not so much to moderate the Heat of the Liquor , as to ripen and prepare it for a present Draught ; which they fancy it does , and Fancy you must know surpasseth Beauty . Th. Very good , pray go on ; I fancy we shall have a pleasant Story . Ar. But so it hapned , that Moggy her Maid , was the Person appointed to attend this Liquor ; whilst the guid awd Wife was cumbring her sen to deft her House , and put it into Order . Now the careless Lass steps casually aside , ( whose absence was not long ) when by accident & most unfortunately a deep-wem'd Cow of jolly Billy Pringles came stragling that way ; who assail'd the Liquor , nor could she well help it ; because when so provoked by the alluring Steem , that sent a Summons to her voracious Appetite : and the poor Cow as if invaded by some feverish Indisposition , and because knowing no Law of Limitation , seem'd wholly uncapable to satisfy her self , so long as any Ale was left in the Cooler ; for she drank , and puff'd , and then took Wind , and too 't again , so long , and so oft , till at last she surveyed the Dimensions of the Tub , where the Liquor in a short time was almost consumed ; which any Man of Sense might rationally conclude so , because the Cow could not see her Face in the Bottom . Th. But here lies the Question , whether or no the Cow's natural Draught was so large an Allowance ? or what unnatural Spark of Heat had then occasioned such immoderate Exceedings ? Ar. I confess I neglected to examine that Circumstance ; but this I remember , and every one can tell you , because so remarkable , it can never be forgot , that the Cow when examining the smoothness of the Ale , and finding it , as I conceive , moderated to her Temper , without a Coag she drank all off : which no sooner hapned , but presently in a rage comes out the awd Wife that brewed the Ale , and troubled beyond measure at the loss of her Liquor ; besides , it touch'd , as she thought , her Reputation , because to disappoint the jovial Crew that had celebrated that Day to solemniate Bacchus , and observing how the Cow stood puffing and blowing , and her Ale as concluded past all discovery , grows immediately Horn-mad ; so le ts fly at the Cow , by thundring on the Ribs and the Sides of the Beast , with a formidable Bastinado , or a good Oak Sapling , like Iohn at the Giant ; who became extream angry , because that the Giant would not run away from him . At length comes Billy Pringle that owned the Cow ; and he forsooth , like an Advocate , useth Arguments to pacify and moderate the awd Wife , against such violent and immoderate Proceeds ; which nothing availed , for she gave him the hearing , and that was all . But standing a while to recover fresh Breath , she presently lets fly at the Cow again , by redoubling her Blows on the Sides of the Beast , till at last the awd Wife became as weary with cudgeling , as the insensible poor Cow was at that time with fudling ; whose Sides were already so stuff'd with strong Ale , that made her Proof against the awd Wife's Artillery ; which so incapacitated the Cow for flight , nay I might as well have said , not almost , but altogether uncapable of Motion . All this while Billy Pringle he labours in vain ; and though no Provost , nor Laird of a Manour , yet was he forsooth a venerable Commander , who endeavours what he may to pacify the awd Wife ; but she was so inconsiderate , nothing ballances her Passion ; his Arguments , she interprets them all Affronts ; and his Pacifications but Inducements to aggravate her Revenge . Whereupon he resolves no more Pleadings , but to use Silence as the best Interpreter . Which she observing , stood still a while ; and though out of Wind , and not answering a Word , yet the Storm was not over ; for no sooner she recruits , and recovers fresh Breath , but le ts fly at him like George at the Dragon . This rais'd such an Uproar all the Town over , and a general Confusion among the Spectators , that now my Lord Provost displays his Authority ; who to pacify , if possible , the Bulk of the Rabble , that were at that time all in an Uproar , came puffing and blowing , almost out of Breath , commanding the Peace ; asking them , If they longed to be hanged for a Riot ? Get ye Home , quo the Provost , every Man to his House ; and that quickly too , or I 'le send ye packing . But observing the Tumult make no haste to disperse , he commands the Peace in their Majesties Name , whilst he lays about him with a sturdy Oak-Saplin he had in his Hand ; telling them all the while , That if they would not be quiet , he would make them quiet , and keep the Peace too , and their Houses to boot . And for your part , guid Wife ( quo the Provost ) seek your Remedy at Law , it 's a Friend's Advice , and the best Course you can take . And for Billy Pringle , he may do the like . The Words drop'd savourly from his Worship's Mouth , so took effect . And now the guid Wife arrests Billy Pringle , because that his Cow drank off her Ale. And he like a Man to purge himself by Law , traverses the Action at the Court at Edinburgh , where the Case was opened , and Pleadings on both sides . But the Woman's Counsel pleads hard for Satisfaction ; when an Advocate for Billy Pringle solicites the Judg , that an Award be allowed to his Client Pringle : For , my Lord , quo he , they produce no Precedent ; nor was it ever known in the Kingdom of Scotland , that a Cow paid a Plack for a standing-Drink : nay , more than that , she never call'd for 't , and Doh and Doris is the Custom of our Country ; Where note , a standing-Drink was never yet paid for . With these and the like Circumstances he made the Court merry , because utterly to exceed and confound their Practice ; so that now every Lawyer became a Mute , and every Auditor a silent Admirer . During this Silence there rush'd into the Court a crew of sawcy surly Fellows , that proffered to swear for the guid awd Wife , that the Cow drank the Ale brewed for them to drink : and it 's thought they would have sworn through a double Deal-board , they seem'd so enraged for the loss of their Ale. This you must conceive warm'd the Woman's Counsel , so that they moved the Court for Satisfaction , and prayed a more strict examination of the Matter . Upon which the Records of the Court were called for , but no Precedent was found to punish a Cow for drinking of Ale , sitting or standing . Besides , it was adjudged beyond the Practice of the Court to determine any thing wherein the Laws were silent . Yet notwithstanding all this , and a great deal more ; the Woman's Counsel moves again for Satisfaction , which Proposal was quash'd by Sentence of the Court , almost as soon as it was propounded , because to refer it to the Provost of Forfar . Th. Why so ? Ar. Can you think him a Man of that Capacity , to decide a Controversy so foreign and intricate , that all the Law in Scotland could not then determine ? Th. Why so , was the Nature of the thing so rare and difficult ? Ar. Was it not , think you , to take all the Proofs , to swear all the Witnesses ; and as near as possible to ultimate the Difference , with this proviso to both Parties Satisfaction ? Th. I confess it was intricate ; but how did he behave himself ? Ar. Very well , I fancy , and the Manner on 't was thus . First , He calls a Hall ; but admits no Man to speak a word save himself ; and as his Gravity directs him , puts a Question to the Woman ; which in short was this . He demands to know of her how the Cow took the Liquor , whether she took it sitting , or if she took it standing ? To which the Brewster-Wife , after a little pause , answered , by making this reply ; In guid fa Sir , quo the Wife , the Cow took it standing . Then , quo the Provost , your e'en words condemn ye , to seek Satisfaction for a standing-Drink . This annihilates the Custom of Doh and Doris . For truly sike another ill Precedent as this , were enough to obliterate so famous a Custom , as stark Love and Kindness for evermare . Where note , guid Wife , ye have wronged Billy Pringle , for prosecuting the guid Man contrary to Law ; and have done mickle Damage to Puggy his Cow , because to chastise her but for a standing-Drink . Th. Is it a Romance , or a real Story ? Ar. Do you doubt the Truth on 't ? Th. Peradventure I do , but it serves us to laugh at . Ar. And will not our Beds serve as well to lie on ? Th. Who doubts it , when summoned by the sweet influence of Sleep ? Ar. Can Men in Dreams whisper Security , when their Eyes are guarded with Troops of Shades , and separated from the glorious Beam of Light ? Th. Death 's a Separation , the Night but a short Privation . It 's true , we grant Sleep an Emblem of Death ▪ but Death the Solution of complicated Elements . Ar. How beautifully glorious do the Constellations appear ? Th. So does Aurora , that ushers in Day , and adapts it for Man and Negotiation . Ar. O the sweets of Contemplation ! have you ruminated to Morrow's Journey ? Th. Do Rusticks calculate an early Seed-time , and not prognostick a forward Harvest , if not unseasonably prevented by malevolent Accidents ? Ar. From whence we may rationally conclude Refreshment after Recreation , as requisite and necessary to propagate Health , as a salubrious Arcanum is to retrieve the Body , when invaded or obstructed by preternatural Indisposition . Th. You paraphrase physically under Metaphorical Tropes . Ar. And you philosophically , to tell us that the Sun no sooner shades his Beams in Thetis Lap , but Aurora suddenly begins to blush , and make visible discoveries of the oblique Lines of Sol impending . Th. So it appears ; for this short Night's Progress , though defeating our Senses , yet has it in some measure sweetly refresh'd us . Ar. Why then do we loiter , and procrastinate Time ? Th. It 's only till we mantle for a March , and discharge for our Entertainment . Ar. That 's but reasonable and requisite , otherwise we deviate from the Morals of Honesty . Th. Must this Day 's Invention be to Morrow's expedition ; so arm with our Artillery to practise at Brechen ? Ar. No , by no means ; though Brechen be a Town of very good Accommodation ; yet we must melt these Hills into Valleys . Th. Here 's another Town presents , what must we call it ? Ar. This is Fetter-Carn ; but that before us is Carlisle-Mount , elevated in the Air , where the People , to my Fancy , dwell in the Clouds , and inhabit , as it were , another Region , representing Terra Nova . Th. Yet methinks here 's sweet Streams glide up and down this Mountanous Country . Ar. And don't you think the Trouts in these Streams naturally high-minded , to climbe such lofty Hills for Preferment . But what think you of these barren Fields , burdened with Sterrility , where the Inhabitants , to my apprehension , feed upon Famine , or a morsel of Moss . It represents to me the Suburbs of Poverty , if when to consider their scarcity of Accommodation . Th. Come then let us break the Heart of these Hills , and bless our Eyes with a Landskip of the Lowlands , that serve as a Sanctuary to shelter us against Storms , and Protection against impetuous Rains. But what Eutopia's this that dwells below us ? Ar. It 's neither Sir Thomas Moor's , nor Bacon's Atlantas ; here we have already made a fair Discovery , but when you come to trace the Firtility of Dean , whose flourishing Streams enrich the Shores , then you will tell me of the Angler's Entertainment . Th. What Place is that , that directs Northward to the Pole ? Ar. That 's Kinkarn Oneal ; beyond which , the Foundations of Pitriffny and Bovena scout , as you may see , beneath the Skirts of the Highlands ; obvious to any Man that tramples her Moors , that direct to the Source and Beginnings of Trespey whose boistrous Streams glide along through Murryland ; a pleasant and plentiful part of a Country , that 's beautified and adorned with spacious Buildings , rivited into Rocks , and cemented with Stone . Th. Must we pass through Murryland , or take it in our way when returning from Ross ? Ar. We shall only pass by it now , to describe the Country of Reven in Badanoah , that 's totally beleaguer'd and besieged with Bogs , whose ruinous Decays are unworthy our Discourse ; nor are her Fields so fertil as those in Feneven , yet are her Valleys surrounded with Rivulets , and every Rivulet replenished with Trout ; beautified and adorned with stately Fir Woods , that shade the Earth from the scorching Sun ; and shelters Man and Horse in impetuous Rains and Storms : where Nature , but not the Native , is generous and prodigal in all her Entertainments . Th. What new inviting Object have we now discovered ? Ar. The famous Lough-Ness , so much discours'd for the supposed floating Island ; for here it is , if any where in Scotland . Nor is it any other than a natural Plantation of Segs and Bull-rushes , matted and knit so close together by natural Industry , and navigated by Winds that blow every way , floats from one part of the Lough to another , upon the Surface of the solid Deeps of this small Mediterrane : and here it is , in these slippery Streams , that an English Ship , by curious Invention , was haled over the Mountains to this solitary Lough ; brought hither on purpose reclaim the Highlander . Th. Do you Romance , or not , to tell me that an Island swims in the midst of the Ocean , and a Ship fluctuates in the midst of the Highlands ; where every Rock represents a Charibdis , and every Wave threatens an Inundation ; where there 's no harbour without hazard of Life , nor Sea enough to promise security to the Mariner , when the Winds mingle themselves with the Waves , that wash the pallid Cheeks of the polish'd Rocks ? Now tell me that can , where the Mariner must have birth ( and the Passinger supplies ) in this fluctuating Ocean , when a Storm arises to ecclipse his Eye from a Land discovery ? Ar. If Eye-sight be good Evidence , there 's enough to convince you ; behold the Ship. Th. How came she here ? was she not built in some Creek hereabouts ? Ar. No. Th. By what means then was she moved into this small Mediterrane ? I solicite Advice , and you can solve the Doubt . Ar. Art was both Engin and Engineer to invite this Ship into this solitary Lough . Th. If so , it 's strange that a Vessel of her Force should leap out of the Ocean , and over the Hills , to float in a Gutter surrounded with Rocks . Ar. Not so strange as true , for here she is . Th. Was there a possibility of her sailing from the Citadel , to this eminent Lough Ness , when a Boat of ten Tun can't force her Passage half way up the River ? This looks Romantick beyond the ingenuity of Art , or possibility of Invention . Ar. Let it look as it will look , I am sure it was so . Th. You are sure it was so , then pray resolve the Point . Ar. Why thus it was ; In the Time of War betwixt the King and Parliament , this Navigate Invention was consulted by Maj. General Dean ; who to compleat a Conquest over the Highlanders , ( in regard hitherto the Law of a Foreign Power had never bridled them ) he accomplished this new Navigation of sailing by Land : who contrived the transportation of this fair Ship ( that you now see ) into these torpid and slippery Streams . Th. What , without Sails ? Ar. Yes , without Sail , Pilot , Card or Compass ; by dividing only the ambient Air , as formerly she plowed the pondrous Ocean . Nor was she compell'd to encounter Sea or Land in all her Passage ; which by some may be thought a ridiculous Report . On the other hand , for a Ship of this Burden to transport her self , or suffer her self to be transported without ordinary , nay extraordinary Means , looks like an Impossibility ; however here you find her , nor is it to be denied that she had a Passage to this solitary Lough . Th. But how ? Ar. First , you must conclude no Vessel , without a Miracle , could remove her self so far from Sea ; and I 'le assure you in this here 's nothing miraculous . Then you are to consider that so eminent a Ship could never shove her self to reach this Limit , as extends from the Orchean Seas to this obscure Lough Ness , without probable Endeavours , and very considerable Assistance . Lastly , to admit of a violent motion , were a kind of madness ; because to impose a Contradiction upon the Design . Th. Pray explicate the Aenigma . Ar. A Motion must be had ( that you 'l grant ) and Means considerable to move by , ( this you must allow ) which to accomplish , the Sailers and the Souldiers equally contributed . For a Regiment ( or it may be two ) about that time quartered in Inverness ; who by Artifice had fastned thick Cables to her Fore-Castle , and then they got Levers and Rollers of Timber , which they spread at a distance , one before another ; whilst some are of Opinion these robust Engineers framed a more artificial and politick Contrivance : but thus it was , and no otherwise , I 'le assure you ; save only they fastned some Cheeks and Planks to the solid Sides and Ribs of the Ship , the better to secure her from crushing upon Transportation . Th. And did she pass in this manner as you tell me , to this famous Ness ? Ar. Yes , she relinquished the brinish Ocean , to float in the slippery Arms of Ness. But to keep her steddy in her Passage , and preserve her from rocking and rolling by the way ; they consulted no other Project than what I tell you : save only some additional Supplies from Inverness , that with Ropes and Takcle haled her along to this very place where you now observe her . For you are to consider , she no sooner got Motion , but by Industry and Art she was steer'd without a Compass , to this remarkable Ness ; where now she floats obvious enough to every curious Observer . For let me tell you , that Strength , Artifice and Resolution , are indisputable Arguments to reach the Possibility of any thing possible ; a threefold Cord is not easily broken . Motion therefore was no sooner begot , but the whole Mystery was almost accomplished ; the Plover you observe never breaks the Shell , before the Lapwing is ready to run ; nor will the Sailer spread the Sails , until he observe a Wind presents . Nor got our Ship the Mediums of Motion , but by Argument of Force ( not of Artillery ) which forced her by graduate Means , till arriving in this Ness , obvious to all Men. And this is that famous and renowned Lough Ness ( Loemon excepted ) inferiour to none in the Kingdom of Scotland ; whose Streams are strewed with Eel and Trout , whilst her Deeps are saluted with the race of Salmon ; whose fertil Banks & shining Sands are hourly moistned by this small Mediterrane : which I fancy is besieged with Rocks and Mountains ; whilst her polite Shores are forzen in the Winter , by the frigid Lungs of blustring Boreas , that perplexes her Banks , and masquerades her Rocks with a Cristalline Hue of polished Ice . Where the Tritons & Sea-Nymphs sport themselves on the slippery Waves , sounding an Invasion to her moveable Inmate ; supposed by some , the floating Island . Th. Do these fair Mountains that interdict the Dales , survey the forcible Streams of Inverness ? Ar. Yes surely , these Torrents , which you now discover , frequently wash the Walls of Inversness ( a derivative from Lough Ness ) at the West end whereof stands a diminutive Castle , about a Mile distant from that magnificent Citadel , that subjects those precarious Northern Highlanders . This Inverness , or Model of Antiquity ( which we now discourse ) stands commodiously situated for a Highland Trade ; defended with a weather-beaten tottering Wall , that 's defaced with Age and the Corruptions of Time , where yet there remains two Parish-Churches : But I remember a third that was a kind of a Cathedral or Collegiat-Church , that now like old Troy sleeps in Dust and Ashes , as part of the Walls do , charging Time and Neglect with their tottering Decays . North and by East , near the forcible Streams of the Ness , stands the Fortress , or Pentagon , drawn out by regular Lines , built all with Stone , and girt about with a Graff , that commodes it with a convenient Harbour . The Houses in this fair Fortress are built very low , but uniform ; and the Streets broad and spacious , with Avenues and Intervales for drilling of Foot , or drawing up Horse . I must confess , such and so many are the Advantages and Conveniencies that belong to this Citadel , it would be thought fabulous , if but to numerate them : for that end I refer my self to those that have inspected her Magazines , Providores , Harbours , Vaults , Graffs , Bridges , Sally-Ports , Cellars , Bastions , Horn-works , Redoubts , Counterscarps , &c. Ocular Evidence is the best Judg , and gives the plainest demonstration ; which , without dispute , will interpret this formidable Fortress a Strength Impregnable ; and the Situation , as much as any , promises Security , by reason it 's surrounded with boggy Morasses ; standing in Swamps , on an Isthmus of Land , that divides the Ness from the Orchean Seas . Yet here is one thing more among our Northern Novelties very remarkable ; for here you shall meet with a wooden Bridg to convoy you over the rapid Ness ; but certainly the weakest , in my Opinion , that ever stradled over so strong a Stream . However , it serves to accommodate the Native , to those pleasant and fragrant Meadows , North and North-West , that direct to the demolishments of the Castle of Lovet , near to which stand the Antiquities of Brawn , planted upon the brow of a considerable Bank , that hangs , one would think , o're a spacious River , above all in Scotland , replenished with Salmon : whose numbers are numberless , if not improper to say so ; and careless of their Lives , they cast them away . I must confess , the strength of such strange Reports , oftentimes meets with a foreign Faith , that raises more Scruples than Arguments can answer . And so it hapned to me at first , till convinced by some Persons of considerable Reputation , that when the Fisher-men with their Sanes have drawn these Streams , they have counted many times five hundred at a Draught ; the Truth of which Relation , should any Man doubt of , they are ready to assert and vindicate the Truth on 't by pregnant Demonstration . However it shaked my Credulity at first , though possibly it may remove the Jealousy of another , if when provided with Patience he can suspend his suspicion till better inform'd , or confirm himself of the plenty of Salmon in these remote Northern Parts . For I grant , others with my self of a like Perswasion may question this Report , till convinc'd by the Truth of Ocular Demonstration ; that these Northern Rivers are the Riches of the Country . Here the Salmon relinquish the Salts , because by the Porposses pursued up the Freshes ; just so the Shad is chased by the Sturgeon , and so are the smaller Fry by the revenous Pike : Nature directs Self-security , and nothing stands in competition with Life . Where note , the Salmon are compell'd to desert the Deeps , and seek sanctuary from the sandy Sholes ; as I my self and others have often observed the Porposses pursue them in the frothy foming Waves of the Ness , for it may be some two or three Miles together ; till their Strength imparing , which oft-times compels them to court the Shores , though with hazard of Life . And sometimes they meet with a Precipice of Rocks ( as these at Brawn ) which with an impossibility they perpetually attempt , though to no purpose as to Self-security . This Oracle explicated , who so incredulous to doubt or dispute the Truth of my Relation ? for no Man certainly was more averse than my self , to affix a Credit upon a single Report : but when opposed by such eminent Evidence , it forced my Obstinacy to yield a Compliance : more especially when approaching those frothy Streams ; no other Argument then need to convince me but Eye-sight . Truly I stood amaz'd to see such Companies of Salmon in these Northern Parts ; which demonstration made such Impressions in my hesitating Breast , that now I 'm convinc'd ; I am ready to publish my Conviction to others , upon manifest Experience . For what can I do less than certify a Truth so often opposed , and doubted by my Self . In this Pontus Cambrosia ( in the famous Ness ) you shall observe three Tides meet every twelve Hours : and when they meet , by reason of their interchangeable Streams mingling together , make such Convulsions and violent Eruptions , as dam up the Shores , and make the Passage exceeding hazardous ; especially for small Boats that cross the Ness , if there do but the least impetuity of Winds hover in the Air. Th. This is very remarkable , for the Porposses to pursue the Salmon ashore . Ar. But so it is : besides , in the midst of Cambrosia is a white Spumation , or a frothy foming sparkling Spry , that resembles Via lactea ; occasioned , as you see , from luxuriant Tides , and aggravating Winds , that violently contract the Surff of the Sea , and so amalgamizes them together , that neither the one nor the other can divide , nor expatiate it self , till inevitably suck'd up into the Bowels of the Ocean . Th. I fancy this Hellespont of Pontus Cambrosia , a representation of the chalky Mount in Barbardoes ; because of its polish'd glittering Whiteness . Ar. I remember as we pass'd this hazardous Charibdis , the Vessel that conveyed us was in danger to overset , by reason the Porposses vented so vehemently at the Stem of our Boat , insomuch that one of them had almost invented his Passage amongst us ; which if he had , there was no way but one ; and that way was unequal to exchange of Elements . But at last we concluded if the Boat should miscarry , to lanch forth into the Deeps , and Hero it over . Th. Some then I fancy would have made brave Ducks and Drakes . Ar. It 's no matter for that , the use of Bladders had been out of Fashion . Now no sooner we arrived at the desired Shore , but with friendly Congratulations we saluted one another ; discoursing our hazardous Passage , and this pleasant Country ( or Isthmus of Land ) besieged with Sea ; because having Portus salutis on the North and by East ; Cambrosia on the South ; and the Western parts all guarded with inaccessible Rocks and Mountains facing the Fields of Stranaver . Th. Here 's another Hellespont ; must we cross this also ? Ar. Yes surely , we must cross this rugged Ferry , especially if intending the Bounds of Innerbrachy , in the cultivated Fields in the Country of Ross ; where the Rocks are undermin'd by the Sea Quellem , that serves for a Filtre to riddle the Ocean , and separate her saline brinish Taste , from those more sweet and luscious Fountains ; where the Inhabitants will flatter you with an absurd Opinion ( an old Tradition received from their Ancestors ) that the Earth in Ross hath an antipathy against Rats , as the Irish Oak has against the Spider : And this Curiosity , if you please to examine , you may , for the Natives do ; but had they asserted there were no Mice in Ross , every Tongue had contradicted them . Now Mice and Rats are Cousin-German , every Body knows that knows any thing , and for the most part keep House together : But what difference has hapned amongst them here , as to make such a Feud in this Country of Ross , that the Rats in Ross should relinquish their Country , and give possession wholly to the Mice ; this is a Mystery that I understand not . Besides this fond Opinion of the Natives hereabouts , some others more remote ( as ignorant as themselves ) transport the Earth of Ross into most parts of Scotland ; perswading themselves , that if they do but sprinkle it in the Fields , Fens , Moors , Mountains , Morish or Boggy Grounds , ( all is one as to that ) for it alters not the Property , nor does it diminish the Quality , nor impair the Virtue , but that still it retains a certain antipathy against that enormous Vermin the Rat , nay , the very scent on 't shall force him to become an Exile . This odd kind of Creed they had when I was resident amongst them ; yet to the best of my Observation , I never saw a Rat ; nor do I remember of any one that was with me ever did : but for Mice , I declare , so great is their plenty ; that were they a Commodity , Scotland might boast on 't . And that they have Owls with Horns , some favour the Report ; yet are they not Horns , but as like Horns as any thing that are not Horns ; nor is it any other than a sort of Feathers , that 's clung'd and twisted so naturally together , that represents the Idiom or Form of a Horn , if when to observe them at a reasonable distance , which seemingly beautifies the Ivy-bush , as Horns adorn the Head of a Buffulo . The next Curiosity to entertain you with , is the Country of Southerland ; which we enter by crossing a small Arm of the Ocean from Tain to Dornoch . So from thence we travel into Cathness , and the Country of Stranavar ; where a rude sort of Inhabitants dwell , ( almost as barbarous as Canibals ) who when they kill a Beast , boil him in his Hide , make a Caldron of his Skin , Browis of his Bowels , Drink of his Blood , and Bread and Meat of his Carcase . Since few or none amongst them hitherto have as yet understood any better Rules or Methods of eating . More North in an Angle of Cathness , lives Iohn a Groat , upon an Isthmus of Land that faceth the pleasant Isles of Orkney ; where the Inhabitants are blest with the plenty of Grass and Grain ; besides Fish , Flesh , and Fowl in abundance . Now that Barnicles ( which are a certain sort of wooden Geese ) breed hereabouts , it 's past dispute ; and that they fall off from the Limbs and Members of the Fir-tree , is questionless ; and those so fortunate to espouse the Ocean ( or any other River , or humitactive Soil ) by virtue of Solar He●t are destinated to live ; but to all others so unfortunate to fall upon dry Land , are denied their Nativity . Th. Can you credit your own Report ; or do you impose these Hyperbole's ironically upon the World , designedly to make Scotland appear a Kingdom of Prodigies ? Ar. No certainly ! and that there is such a Fowl I suppose none doubts it ; but if any do , let him resort to Cambden , Speed , or Gerhard's Herbal , and there he shall find that in Lancashire , thousands were gathered up , adhering to the broken Ribs of a Ship wreck'd upon that Coast ; but these are not like the Barnicle Geese that I speak of : the like Accident hapned in Kent sometime past , and in many other parts of England , &c. So that few Ingenious and Intelligible Travellers doubt a Truth in this Matter ; and the rather , because it sedulously examined , it discovers a want of Faith to doubt what 's confirmed by such credible Authority . But if Eye-sight be Evidence against Contradiction , and the Sense of Feeling argument good enough to refute Fiction , then let me bring these two convincing Arguments to maintain my Assertion ; for I have held a Barnicle in my own Hand , when as yet unfledg'd , and hanging by the Beak , which as I then supposed of the Fir-tree ; for it grew from thence , as an Excrescence grows on the Members of an Animal : and as all things have Periods , and in Time drop off , so does the Barnicle by a natural Progress separate it self from the Member it 's conjoin'd to . But further , to explicate the Method and Manner of this wooden Goose more plainly : The first appearing Parts are her Rump and Legs ; next to them , her callous and unploom'd Body ; and last of all her Beak , by which she hangs immature , and altogether insensible ; because not as yet having any spark of Life hitherto discovered to shine about her . Then , like the Leaves in October that leisurely drop off ( since predestinated to fall ) even so the Barnicle drops off from the Twig of the Tree to which Nature had fastned her , and gave her a Growth , and an inanimate Being . Where note , to so many as providentially fall into Water , Protection is immediately sent them to live ; but to all others as accidentally encounter dry Land , such I presume are doom'd to die without Redemption . And though some of them are commissioned to live , yet how difficult is it to preserve Life when hourly sought after by the luxurious Devourer ? Th. However , let not our discourse of Geese discover us ungrateful to the Inhabitants . For it were Madness more than good Manners , not to acknowledg Civilities from a People that so civilly treated us . Ar. Civility wanting , we are wanting to our selves ; when too much of Self bars the Fruits of Society . Now we tread on the Borders of Southerland , that of right belongs to the Earl of Southerland ; whose eldest Son is born Lord of Stranavar . On the top of that little Hill , stands little Dun Robin ; it 's a Castle , though but a small one ; where the Earl himself inhabits . But that other great House , or rath●r some piece of Decays , they call it Skibbo ; but there is yet another ruinous Castle that stands on the brow of a lofty Hill , and that they call Skelbo . These are all the Castles , and most eminent Fabricks in Southerland , to the best of my Observation . The next thing we meet with is the Lough Broroh , that spouts forth a River into the Bowels of the Ocean . This Lough is deep , but not so large as the Ness , ( elevated in 59 Degrees North Latitude ) but very full of Salmon ; and though the River seems to have rapid Streams , yet the Tides influence them every twelve Hours . I mention this Broroh , for no other purpose , than to reflect on her plenty of Salmon , where they barrel up for France , and other parts annually , ( as reported ) so much Salmon as amounts to three hundred pound Sterling a Year ; and the price of a Salmon ( among themselves ) seldom exceeds one single Denare . Where not the Profits of this contemptible Broroh , are farm'd by the Inhabitants inhabiting hereabouts , but the Propriety belongs to the Earl of Southerland . But Dornoch is all the Corporations in Southerland , of which Iusticium I have but little to say . Th. And where are we now ? Ar. On Terra firma , where should we be ? and this is the Town of Tayn in Ross , that equallizeth Dornoch for beautiful Buildings ; and as exemplary as any Place for Justice , that never use Gibbet nor Halter to hang a Man , but sacks all their Malefactors , so swims them to their Graves . Now the most spacious and eminent Fabricks in Ross , are Tarbot , situate near the Sea ; Mees , bordering upon Lough Loon ; Balnagoon , a strong Fabrick on the brinks of Clowd ; Fowlds , a great House not far from Brawn ; Innerbrachy , a Mannor near Portus Salutis ; Milton , a Castle opposite to Cromerty . These Fabricks are the Strength , and Ornament of Ross. Besides here are Eagles , Signets , Falcons , Swans . Geese , Gossander , Duck and Malard , Teal , Smieth , Widgeon , Seapyes , Sandelevericks , green and gray Plover , Snite , Partridg , Curlue , Moorgame , and Grows ; but I remember no Pheasant in this Bill of Fare . This is that famous Portus Salutis , accommodated with Fowl to that degree , as their numerous Covies darken the Firmament ; and so replenished with Fish , as no part of Scotland can boast of . Oysters the best in the North , are dragg'd forth with Drags from her Owsey Bottoms . And for Crabs , Lobsters , Perewinkles , &c. in regard so plentiful and common , are but of little value . But what have I to do to discourse a Country , where Eggs are sold for twenty four a Penny , and all other Accommodations proportionable ? This I presume is no dear Entertainment ; nor ever expect to have it cheaper when we leave these plentiful Borders of Ross , to traverse the more Southern Parts of Scotland , as our Gnomen directs to the fertil Shores of Cromerty . Th. And why the fertil Shores of Cromerty ? Ar. Because their Shores are uncapable of freezing , for no Snow lies here , though bordering almost on the frigid Zone ; nor does Ice incrustate the Earth near the Shores : for the very Sands are so contempered from a natural innate Quality of Warmth , occasioned it's possible from the Salinity of the Ocean , which suddenly dissolves the Snow that falls , preanticipating the formation of Frost , or any such like Coagulum . And this is the reason her Shores are enrich'd with Fertility , were but the People polish'd with Art and Agriculture ; for were it so , I should then conclude them blest with a delightful Prospect , that flows from the fluctuating Generosity of Portus Salutis . Th. Is this the Castle , and the Coast of Cromerty ? How do the People do to free themselves from the Depredations of the Highlanders . Ar. Well enough ; it 's morally impossible it should be otherwise , except Nature run retrograde : I know no other distinction , than below and above Stairs ; but I should have told you ( since a received Opinion ) that the greatest plenty of Fish and Fowl that belongs to Scotland , falls in or near this Portus Salutis ; where Lobsters are sometimes sold for Bodles a piece ; but for Crabs , Perewinkles , and various other Shell-Fish , as Cockles , and Mussels &c. the Natives are not nice to share such Entertainments amongst Strangers ; meaning such as cruise all along their Coast , till the Season of the Year compels them off . Th. It 's a pleasant part of a Country , I confess , though methinks it stands almost out of the World. Ar. Let it stand as it will stand , it stands well enough , by reason it borders so near the Highlands . Th. Why then it will look further off from Home . For these Highlands to my thinking but represent a part of the Creation left undrest : As some great and magnificent Fabrick is erected , you know abundance of Rubbish is left to remove ; so I fancy those Highlands appear to me , because wanting Ornament , and destitute of Cultivation . Ar. You shall have it on your own Terms , as void of Form as the Natives are indigent of Morals and good Manners . However , from these eminent Rocks we descry the Ocean , and the Ships sometimes as they cruise upon the Coast. But now the Air that was serene , is thickned , I fancy , and struck with impressions of Cold ; for the Wrack of Clouds begin to roll about , variously intermingled with a rapid Motion ; and the lower Region swells and looks big , but the Nights direct to an equal Proportion with the Days : so that observing the Summer in a declining posture , what think you of fixing our Inclinations Southward ? And in our Countermarch , take a breviate of all the Rivers , Rivulets , Cities , Citadels , Castles and Corporations , that lie in our way , till we face their magnificent Metropolis of Edinburgh . Th I approve of the Motion well enough , it comports with my Inclination . Ar. Let us then proceed methodically , and commence with the Castle of Cromerty , where the Laird Vrquart lived in his Life-time ; who had twice twenty Children standing at once before him ; but thirty were Sons , and ten of them Daughters ; and all at the State of Men and Women , yet not one natural Child amongst them ( as I was told ) . Now this venerable Laird of Vrquart lived to the utmost Limit and Period of Life ; whose declining Age invites him to contemplate Mortality , and cruciate himself , by fancying his Cradle his Sepulchre , wherein he was lodg'd Night after Night , and hal'd up by Pullies to the Roof of his House ; approaching as near as the Roof would let him , to the beautiful Battlements and Suburbs of Heaven . Th. Was not this that Vrquart , whose eldest Son writ a Treatise in Honour of his Pedigree ; wherein he describes his Genealogy from Adam ? Ar. It 's the very same , for he traced his Descent from the Garden of Eden . Th. Why then was his Book domm'd to be stuff'd with nothing but fantastical fabulous Fictions ? Ar. Because his Country-men thought it too ambiguous for any Man to trace his Pedigree from Paradise . Th. Was that all ? had they no Antiquaries amongst them ? But hold a little , what Place is this ? Ar. Old Chanery , hung about with Charms , that inchanted a Crampus to come ashore , whose Bulk ( some fancied ) burdned the Sands : but he became a Prey to the English Infantry . Now we trace the flourishing Fields of Murry-land ; and thi● is Old Ern where Marquess Montross engaged his Country-men , and totally routed them . This next Town is Forres , famous for nothing except that infamous Vermin the Rat ; because so numerous in these Northern Parts , that a Cat can scarcely get a living amongst them . Th. Why don't they send and fetch of the Earth from Ross. Ar. That I know not ; but this I know , that they snatch'd the Meat off of our Trenchers , 〈◊〉 churm'd the Stockins and Apparel of the Souldiers ; who projected Lines to hang their Clothes on , upon which these Vermin would dance and totter , as if invited by the dull sound of a Northern-Country Bagpipe , their natural Musick , and most congruous to their Kind . Th. I have been told , that these Vermin politicians storm the Town once or twice a Year , to the terrifying amazement of all the Inhabitants ; and that Cats durst not be seen to scout abroad , lest hazarding their Lives whenever they encounter . Ar. That 's matter of Fact ; who doubts the truth on 't ? Th. That should I , were I not convinc'd to the contrary . But what remarkable Monuments are these like Pyramids in the ambient Air ? Ar. I know not , except some Signals of Victory ; it may be some Field has been fought hereabouts : otherwise I should fancy them unintelligible Mutes , left only on purpose for Strangers to admire them . Th. What Town call ye that , that presents unto us ? Ar. The famous Elgin , situated on a Level , and besieged round about with flourishing Corn-fields ; whose spacious Ports surround a Cathedral , blotted and blurr'd by the Dates of Time. Th. However it appears that some eminent Characters are left yet to evidence the Footsteps of superannuated Curiosity , and inform us the Antiquity of her original Lustre . And that is all ; but not Lustre enough left to vie with the gaity of those famous Imbellishments of Westminster-Chappel : that Oracle strikes all Structures dumb , and is the Nonsuch of Europe , nay , all the World ; Models of it have been transported into Foreign Parts , and equally admired , with Oliver's Medals . Th. Elgin was once a Beauty , nor is it now an artificial Deformity ; yet such is the Unconstancy of Men and Times , that this Fabrick is defaced , and Prelacy thrown down : methinks I could almost lament her Ruins ; these marginal Notes on the Frontispiece of Elgin intitle her Cathedral a Northern Beauty . Ar. But not to parallel that unparallel'd Curiosity , the illustrious Chappel-Royal of King's-Colledg in Cambridg . Th. Yet is there a Beauty in Elgin's Antiquities ; therefore it 's a Vanity beyond Ignorance , and a Presumption beyond Pardon , should any pretend to outvie it in Scotland . Ar. I must confess that imbelish'd Fabricks are more my Admiration that perplexed Controversies . What profit is there in unprofitable Disputations ? That Genius to me seems disingenious and turbulent , that is always angling in tempestuous Streams . Our occasion invites us to Recreation , not Riot . To a Description of the Country ; not to register her Faults , and obliterate her Favours . What have we to do with Secular Affairs ? the Management of Kingdoms and National Concerns is nothing our Business ; nor need our Curiosity inspect the Artificers of the Law that fleece the Country , whilst Presbyter Iohn writes his Funeral-Epitaph with Iure Divino . Th. Our Discourse I perceive , if we be not mindful , will bring us about ; however , the best on 't it , here are no Hedges to turn us . Ar. No , here 's an open Passage to the glittering Streams of Trespey , that generously accommodates the Angler , whilst the Natives frequently consult the Net , for the Treasures of Pearl , studiously concealed in the gravelly Deeps . Why should Nature's Ornaments want Admiration , or the industrious Angler the Fruition of Contemplation ? Th. What fair Fabrick is that which stands before us ? Ar. Bogagieth , the Marquess of Huntly's Palace , all built with Stone , facing the Ocean ; whose fair Front ( set Prejudice aside ) worthily deserves an English Man's Applause for her lofty and majestick Towers and Turrets , that storm the Air ; and seemingly make dints in the very Clouds . At first sight , I must confess , it struck me with admiration , to gaze on so gawdy and regular a Frontispiece ; more especially when to consider it in the Nook of a Nation . Nor do I know any reason , but that every English Man should advance a due proportion of Scotland's Fame , as freely and candidly as of his own native Country ; provided the Kingdom of Scotland deserve it . I have told you that the Name of this House is Bogagieth , alluding , as I fancy , to the Nature of the Place , by reason the Ground appears so Boggy ; whose Battlements on a fair Day display themselves to the Portals of Elgin . But more Southerly yet are the Fortifications of Straboggy , bordering on the Tracts to Aberdeen ; which also belongs to the Marquess Huntly , the chief of the Clan of the Gordons ; as is Earl Seaforth , chief of the Mackenzies . Now this bulky Straboggy has an invincible Tower , so large and stupendous that it burdens the Earth , and is without precedent the largest in Scotland ; situated on a Flat , begirt with Bogs , amalgamiz'd with loomish marly Clay , and cemented into Rocks , makes prospect by a short interview to the Skirts of the Highlands , whilst the elevated Tarrasses of beautiful Bogagieth overlook the Ocean , and is as eminently discours'd for a stately Palace , as Elgin is admired for a sumptuous Cathedral . Th. Are these those Savanna's so enrich'd with Rivulets , and every Rivulet stock'd with Trout ? Do these purling Streams proclaim a Plenty , and does not every Shore shine with silver Sands , whilst the craggy Cliffs stand burden'd with Trees ? Ar. It answers your Description ; as the Tower of Straboggy seems impregnable , yet Marquess Argile once earth'd so deep in 't , that all the Clan of the Gordons could not undermine him , notwithstanding their Popularity , and Residence about it . Th. What caused the Difference , could not the Law reconcile them ? Ar. No nor the Gospel neither ; if when to consider their Difference in Opinion , for the Gordons you must know are profest Roman-Catholicks ; and Scotland , nay all the World knows that the Campbels are Presbyterians . Now the first won't live without a Universal Bishop , and the last can't live without a Parochial Priest ; what think you now , are they like to agree ? Th. No , I think not , if they hold to the Point . Ar. Let the Point be what it will , these are the stately Turrets of Straboggy , where I fancy the Bogs would baffle our Horses , did not a Countermarch towards our native Country sweeten the Toil. So our delicious Fragrancies , were they stuck in these Northern Fields , would certainly perfume them . Th. You have eminent Thoughts of Home ; but how will it happen to us here , coming so unexpectly upon our Landlord ? Ar. Trouble not your self with that Affair , for he is never unprovided of good Entertainment . Th. Nor I of an Appetite , for my Stomach stands Sentinel . Ar. So does mine , to encounter good Commons . Th. How vainly do we flatter our selves , that in these solitary Fields , immur'd with Mountains and besieg'd with Bogs , where Heath and Haddir are the height of our Horses , there to expect Moor-fowl and Manchet inseparable Companions ? No no , let a Dish of Sewins serve us for Supper , rather than dream of a delicious Regalia ; and instead of an Olio , a broil'd Haddock ; or it may be a Scots Collop , if we can get it . But I 'le welcome any thing that comes seasonably to thaw the Icicles that flatten the edg of my Appetite ; so that now if only to find the People courteous , tho not over-curious , and their Pantries provided with Meat , tho themselves be destitute of Manners , it matters not . We are capable enough to distinguish Academies from Ale-houses , and Change-Houses from a Royal Exchange . What matters it then for Cooks , where every Man may dress his own Commons ? and let the Provision of this day's Exercise ( if Trout and Plover be Food fit for Travellers ) be my care ; and I 'le supervise the Roast , whilst you rest your self , and send you Summons upon the first savory Scent . Ar. You have very well contriv'd to salute our Mouths with a Modicum , lest our Appetites alienate ; for if fasting too long brings equal Danger with a Riot of Feasting , a Surfeit of either may impare the Mediocrity of Health : for as the one ushers in Fevers that terminate in Flames , so the other , in regard of its moist Frigidity , melts all the Members into a Deluge , by extinguishing the irradiating vital Heat ; which insensibly draws on a deprav'd Ferment , preternatural to the Archeus or Rector of the Ventricle . Thus we range the World , by rifling Scotland , to refresh our selves ; and blot out those limpid Streams of Trespey , that glide so smoothly near to the famous Foundations of Bogagieth ; which beyond dispute discovers the Glory of Scotland epitomiz'd in this short Day 's Expedition . Th. Now should the flaming Steeds of the Sun touch the Cusp of the Horizon before we rise , would not all Mankind conclude us affected with Ease and Idleness ? and if so , then mark the Conclusion , the Sluggard he is ravished with Ease and long Nights ; and the Epicure in Raptures at a luxurious Table . Now see what follows ; but as Disease is the Child of Intemperance , and Idleness the Parent of Penury and Want ; Disease therefore is the Reward of Repletion , and Death the final Captivator of Mortals . Ar. This Discourse I perceive has brought something to bear ; for now I see the World's great Luminary gild the Rocks , and polish the Surface of the smoother Streams . The Heavens shine their Blessings most propitiously upon us ; but the Earth beyond dispute will prove rugged and knotty , ( since reflecting on my self ) that from Straboggy to Aberdeen , there 's not a more irregular Path in Scotland . Th. We must take it as it falls , and be thankful for it ; however we are in our way for England . Ar. There 's the Magnet that attracts the Chalybs , the Root of the Matter I perceive lies there ; England is the End , and Scotland the Mean. However we must pass by the flourishing Streams of Dee , so much discours'd by every Angler , where the generosity of every Ford furnishes him with Trout ; as do her solid and more torpid Deeps accommodate him with Salmon , had we leisure to experience them ; but Time , like us and our Occasion , rides Post. Th. If Opportunity and Importunity strike Difficulties dead , then why do we ramble these rolling Streams , and produce nothing ? Th. Yes but we do , if only to tell the World that the Marquess Montross , a Peer of the Kingdom , and a General of incomparable Conduct and Courage in these solitary Fields ( though with but a small Brigade of Souldiers ) fought with his Country-men , and totally routed them . And to make the Miracle yet more miraculous , this famous Martialist obtained another signal Victory ; though when under those ill Circumstances , as not to reinforce himself ; yet with that Bravery he redoubled his Resolution , and fought them under the very Walls of this flourishing Aberdeen , from whence he brought off the Trophies . And this is that famous Aberdeen , whose Western Suburbs are guarded by the Hills ; as are those Levels more Easternly saluted by the Ocean . Th. Is this that Aberdeen so generally discours'd by the Scots for Civility ? Ar. Yes , and Humanity too ; for it 's the Paragon of Scotland . Th. Why do not you call it by the Name of a City ? Ar. It matters not much for that , since the general Vogue of a Town serves as well : however it 's a Corporation , and that 's enough ; and I 'm convinc'd it stands in a cultivated Country , that never knew the Force of Sterrility ; whose Banks are bathed with the glittering Streams of Dee , and her Walls shaded with fertil Corn Fields , promulgates Plenty ; for Heaven , by the Law of Generosity , certainly has bless'd her : for here the Sun so moderates the Cold in Winter , that it seldom or rarely freezes her Sands ; whose Increase is multiplied from the generous Breasts of the Ocean . And from whence both Mariner and Merchant accumulate Treasure , because to drag it forth from the solid Deeps of the Sea ; when at other times they import their Goods into the Highlands , as they export Commodities into remote Countries . Th. But the Harbour , I fancy , that 's somewhat too strait ; and the Entrance , as I conceive , much too narrow ; however it 's examined secure enough . Ar. Peradventure it is ; yet these Rocks at the entrance terrify the Pilot , as her Harbour , when entred , exhilarates the Passenger . Now the Buildings of this City are framed with Stone and Timber ; facing the Sun , and fronting this pleasant Harbour : the Streets also are large and spacious , and the Walls strengthned with Towers and Buttresses of Stone . So that nothing , in my Opinion , remains defective to compleat them happy ; for if not to waste by an Overpluss , they can never pine away by a Want. Th. I fancy this Place situate in a pleasant part of a Country ; and so was that Relique of Antiquity we but newly past by , when approaching the Suburbs of this flourishing City . Ar. You do well to remind me , for I had almost forgot it ; that was old Aberdeen : things that grow ancient , grow out of Fashion ; however , it 's the Mother City of New Aberdeen , and a University to boot , wherein stands an old weather-beaten Cathedral , that looks like the Times , somewhat irregular : but of that I have little to say , since others before me thought requisite to erect such publick Places for private Devotion , when this present Generation conform themselves , by contracting their Congregations to lesser now . Th. Is this old Aberdeen an old University ? why then a Sophister may pick up as much Ethicks and Politicks as will serve him to stuff out a pair of Lawn Sleeves . Cathedrals in some Countries influence the Inhabitants , as Planets you know have government over the Vital Parts . Ar. You must have a slash at the Gown I perceive ; but what think you of the Church in new Aberdeen , ( that 's no Cathedral ) where the Magistrates sit under the Soveraignty of the Mace , and every Merchant in his peculiar Pew ; where every Society of Mechanicks have their particular Seats , distinguished by Escutcheons , sutable to their Profession ; so that Confusion seldom or rarely happens amongst them , in quarrelling for Places : where Strangers are unsuspected for Informers and Intruders , and the Civility of the People such , that no Man is left destitute of a Seat to sit on , but every one entertained answerable to his Quality ? Th. This is something like ; for it far exceeds the Custom of England , where a Man may stand in some Churches till his Feet are surbeat , yet no Body proffer him a Remove , or a Stool to sit on . Ar. But this is not all neither ; for here you shall have such Method in their Musick , and such Order and Decorum of Song-devotion in the Church , as you will admire to hear , though not regulated by a Cantor or Quirister , but only by an insipid Parochial Clerk that never attempts further in the Mathematicks of Musick , than to compleat the Parishioners to sing a Psalm in Tune . Th. You have concisely characterized Aberdeen , with her Inhabitants ; but what have we here ? Cawses uncartable , and Pavements unpracticable , pointed with rocky stumpy Stones , and dawb'd all over with dingy Dirt , that makes it unpassible ; and the Fields , as I conceive , are ten times worse , because o'respread with miry Clay , and incumbred with Bogs that will bury a Horse . Ar. For better for worse , we must through it , if intending to climb the Southern Elevations . Now at the foot of this Pavement there 's a small little Harbour , which they call Steenhive , but I take the liberty to call it stinking Hive , because it 's so unsavory ; which serves only for Pirates and Pickeroons ; but it bravely accommodates the Highlander for Depredations . Th. What Fabrick is this that peeps out of the Ocean ? Ar. Donnotter-Castle surrounded with Sea , and Waves for recreation dance about it : it 's a House so inoculated and cemented into Rocks , that a Man would fancy it to swim in the Ocean ; and the natural Strength so impregnable , supposeth the Artificial but inconsiderable , whose rocky Foundations , like Atlas's Pillars , support the bulk of this gaudy Fortress . For Art and Artist are but Nature's Substitutes ; where-ever therefore Nature ceaseth to operate , then is the time for the Artist to begin his Progress . But Nature has finished what she had to do , and has left nothing for the Artist to practise , save only to adorn the natural Excellency . After this manner is that artificial Imbellishment , for the Rock it self is the natural Strength , then the Castle can be but the Artificial . From when we conclude , that Nature and Art have form'd such a Fabrick for Strength and Beauty , that amuzes and amazes every Beholder . Th. I behold and consider this invincible Castle , lifted up like a Cloud into the ambient Air. I have also considered the gaity of her Galleries , and those Ornaments that adorn her gaudy Frontiers . I have also considered those opposite Mountains , whose formidable Aspect are no pleasing Prospect to those imbellish'd Battlements , that seemingly float in the Arms of the Ocean . Ar. You have hit the Key , and now let me tune up the Instrument ; those Mountains mar all : yet in this fair Fortress they conceal the Regalia's of Scotland , from such sacrilegious Hands that would steal Diadems to adorn their Ambitions ; so rob their Prince to inrich themselves : for here it is in this solitary Rock besieged with Sea , that Scotland has conceal'd both Ornament and Treasure ; and what greater Ornament to a Prince than a Crown ? Th. That I can believe as an Article of my Creed , yet all is not Gold that glisters ; for should all Reports pass muster for Realities , Truth it self might be brought into the Scandal of Suspicion . That the Crown has been lodg'd in Donnotter , I dispute not , yet Dumbarton I should think in all respects as secure , and Edinburgh-Castle as secure as either , to conceal that Treasure from degenerate Mercenaries , that would violate their Trust though they venture to hang for it . Ar. You are in the right on 't , but the Road I fancy runs not so rough as it did ; nor are my Apprehensions of England so remote as they were : both the Way and the Weather favour our Designs in this Southern Expedition : for England's our Prospect , now propound you the Object : and as we ride along to the Town of Montrose , signify your Opinion of the flourishing Aberdeen . Th. You impose a little too hard upon me , I can scarcely express my Opinion of a Place , but I must be sentenced too much to commend it . On the other Hand , should I lessen or impair their Civilities , then you challenge me to reflect on our civil Entertainments . This Dilemma I am driven to . However you cannot deny , but acknowledg , that Aberdeen is sweetly situated , and under the Government of well-regulated Magistrates : No complaint of Poverty , nor luxurious Supersluities ; where the Houses are fill'd with Hospitality , not with Prophaneness ; their Streets and Allies cleanly swept and paved , and their Church and State-house very curiously kept , after the best Methods of the Scotish Mode . But how Montrose will represent unto us , that I suspend to determine till farther examination . Ar. Trouble not your self with that Affair , for Montrose will murder all your Suspicions . Her generous Entertainments in every Angle , like radiated Beams of the Sun that invigorate the Earth , so naturally do the Inhabitants influence their Civilities amongst Strangers ; which remonstrates Montrose a Beauty that lies conceal'd , as it were in the bosom of Scotland ; most delicately drest up , and adorn'd with excellent Buildings , whose Foundations are laid with polish'd Stone , and her Ports all wash'd with the Silver Streams that trickle down from the Famous Ask. This is Montrose in the County of Angus , antiently known by the Name of Caelurcha . Tell me how you like it , whose Gaity and Gallantry springs from the Nobility and Gentry ; but the Wealth of the City , from her Merchants and Manufacture : and though you see not her Harbours deck'd with delicate Shipping , yet she contents her self with a pleasant River , that commodes the Inhabitant with the Blessings of Plenty , and that 's enough . So to sum up all in a Compendious Narrative , we intitle Montrose , the Mount of Roses . Th. What Encomium more elegant , or what Character more eminent for these sweet Situations , than the Rosy Mount of our Northern Latitude ? Nay , what expressions could be added more compendiously significant to characterize the Beautiful Elevations and Imbellishments of Montrose I know not : then let this short Derivation answer all Objections ; whilst we enter her Ports , and use Arguments of Refreshment to our hostile Appetites , in regard so famous a River as the famous Ask salutes her Banks and flourishing Shores with daily supplies , to relieve her Inhabitants , and accomodate Strangers . Ar. Now our next Advance is to the Town of Dundee : but give me leave to call it Deplorable Dundee , and not to be exprest without a Deluge of Tears ; because storm'd and spoil'd by the rash precipitancy of Mercenaries , whose rapinous Hands put a fatal Period to her stately Imbellishments , with the loss of many innocent lives , altogether unconcern'd in that unnatural Controversy . Ah poor Dundee ! torn-up by the Roots ; and thy Natives and Inhabitants pick'd out at the Port-holes . Can Honour shine in such Bloody Sacrifices , to lick up the lives of Inhabitants , as if by a studied revenge ? Can nothing sweeten the Conquerours Sword , but the reeking Blood of Orphans and Innocents ? Blush O Heavens , what an Age is this ! There was Wealth enough to answer their Ambitions , and probably that as soon as any thing betrayed her . Could nothing satisfy the unsatiable Sword , but the Life of Dundee to atone as a Sacrifice ? English Men without Mercy , are like Christians without Christianity ; no Moderation nor Pity left , but parcelling out the lives of poor Penitents in cold Blood ? Who must answer for this at the Bar of Heaven , before the Judg of all the World ? but he that doom'd Dundee to die , is dead himself , and doom'd e're this ; and Dundee yet living to survive his Cruelty . Th. Is this Dundee ! Disconsolate Dundee , where the merciless Conquerour stuck down his Standard in Streams of Blood ? Ar. Yes , this is that Unfortunate and Deplorable Dundee , whose Laurels were stript from the Brow of her Senators , to adorn the Conquering Tyrant's Head. Here it was that every Arbour flourished with a Fruitful Vine ; and here every Border was beautified with fragrant Flowers . Yet her Situation seems to me none of the best , for if bordering too near the brinks of the Ocean proves Insalubrious , or stooping too low to salute the Earth , incommodes Health by unwholsom Vapours ; then to stand elevated a pitch too high , suffocates with Fumes , that equally offend and infect the Air , by blotting out Sanity with the Soveraignty of Life . Th. This somewhat answers my former Opinion , that neither Honour nor Riches , nor the Ambitions of Men , stand in competition with the Mediocrity of Health ; nor is there any Blessing under the Sun adequate to the Soveraign Sanctions of Sanity on this side Eternity , but the Radies of Sanctification from the Sun of Righteousness . The World 's a Fool , and none but Fools admire it : Yet not that I prophane the Beautiful Creation ; when only censuring that fictitious and imaginary World in Man. Go on with Dundee , I overflow with Pity ; and could wish my Reluctancy Penitency enough to weep her into a Religious Repentance , but not with Rachel never to be comforted . Hark Arnoldus ! Don't you hear the Bells ? Ar. Yes I hear them , and what of that ? Bells and Bonfires are two Catholick Drumsticks , with which the Church beats up for Volunteers only to debauch them . For what end were Bells hung up , if not to Jangle ; and Bonfires kindled , if not to Blaze like an Ignis fatuus ? Thus People uncultivated are like Land untill'd , and Arts unimprov'd print the footsteps of Penury . But Arts are improv'd by industrious Ingenuity ; when through want of Ingenious Industry they slide into a Non-entity . As no Man can be truly Religious without good Morals , so no Man without good Morals can be in any measure Religious . Not that I assert Religion is Morality ; but Morality is the Porch that lets into the Temple . Th. You paraphrase upon Bells ; I wonder how you miss'd Bag-pipes , since the one has as much the root of the matter in 't as the other . By these mystical Metaphors , if I hit the Mark , you present England an Emblem of Canaan , and Scotland but a piece of English Imitation . Ar. You don't hit the Key right , but I perceive England lies close siege in your Bosom ; however there ought to be some charity for Scotland , that so generously entertained you withall sorts of Varieties . Th. Scotland'tis true has variety enough , to confuse and confound all the Cooks in England . Ar. All this I 'll grant . Th. Then you must grant their Butter but little better then Grease we usually grease Cart-wheels withal ; which nauseates my Palat if but to think on 't , or remember the Hand that made it up . I know there are Men that have Maws like Muck-hills , that can feed as freely upon tainted Flesh , as you and I upon Pheasant and Partridge . Ar. What then ? Th. Why then you argue as if you had lost your English Appetitie , and I would not for all the Varieties in Scotland , that the resentments of England should expire in my Palat. Ar. Does Hunger make any distinction in Dainties ? if not , then why should Scotish Kale blot out the Character of English Colliflowers ? Th. I shan't dispute the point , but the very thoughts of England sweetens my apprehensions , that possibly e're long I may taste of a Southern Sallad : However , this I 'll say in the Honour of Scotland , that Cold and Hunger are inseparable Companions , but their Linens are fresh ; and were not their Beds so short , they would serve well enough for weary Travellers . Ar. Then I fancy they will serve well enough for us , whilst we trace the fragrant Levels of Fife . For now we relinquish the beautiful Ports of Dundee , to transport in Boats that are steer'd with a Compass of Straw , by reason of the embodied Mists , to which Dundee is as incident as any part , because standing in a bottom that 's besieged with mucky miry Earth ; from whence there insurrect such pernicious Vapours , as nauseate the Air ; whereby it becomes almost infectious . Th. Why so ? Ar. Because it debilitates both the Native and Inhabitant , and would certainly incapacitate them of Health and long Life , did not Custom and a Country-Habit plead a prescription , both as to Physick and Diet : Insomuch , that neither Gass nor Blass , nor any nauseating suffocating Fumes , nor hardly Death it self can snatch them from Scotland ; where some Natives have lived to a prodigious Age. Th. But to the Country of Fife , I fear you 'l forget it . Ar. No , no , doubt it not , nor would I have you startle the Mariner , who because destitute of a Card to pilot us over by , is compell'd to make use of a Compass of Straw . Th. A very ingenious Invention ; pray tell us the manner on 't . Ar. Don't push too hard upon me ; and I 'll tell you this new way of Navigation . When Cloudy Mists arise that darken the face of the Firmament , and threaten danger without any Disturbance , you shall then see the Seamen stuff the Stern with Straw , as now they do with little Trusses , which they successively expose one at a time ; and so supply it time after time from the Stern of the Vessel , till at length they arrive at the desired Shoar , as now we do : And thus have I past and repast from Dundee . Nor is there any difficulty nor danger to any Man more than hazarding his Carcase in Timber . Now welcome ashore to the Fields in Fife ; where we must exchange our Navigable Horses for Hackneys . Th. What must we call the name of this Town ? Ar. Cooper in Fife : it 's a Corporation . Th. And what other Town is that yet more Eastward , that seems to lean on the Skirts of the Ocean ? Ar. That 's Antient Saint Andrews , their Metropolitan University . Upon the same Coast lie Creel and Petenweems . More Southerly yet lie cockly Carcawdy facing the Ocean , and the Frontiers of Leith : we shall only take a view of the Palace of Faulkland , though her fair Imbellishments outlustre Dumfermling . Th. What 's our next Stage ? Ar. Brunt-Island : But I must remind you of the Magnificent Palace of Scoon , forgot as we past by the Ports of Saint Iohnstons , near whose elevated Turrets there stands a Kirk , that stands upon all the Land in Scotland ; which Kirk is immur'd with a fair stone Wall ; and in that Kirk they Crown their Kings , and perform the Formalities of all other Royal Duties ; which Regalia are the Sword , Spurs , Purse , Crown , Globe , Scepter and Bible . Now he 's a Dunce that knows not this duty , because it's incumbent on all the Kingdom of Scotland . Th. But how stands the Kirk upon all the Kingdom ? Ar. There 's not a Royalty in the Kingdom of Scotland , but has sent some part of Earth ( from every Angle ) to this place called Scoon ; which Earth was dispersed by Laborious Industry ; upon which the Foundations of the Kirk were laid . So that now you are to consider this Variety of Mould represents but one Uniform and Compact Body of Earth : Which Earth represent the great Volume of Scotland in a Breviat , or as I may term it , a little Compendium . Thus our Discourse of the Kirk of Scoon has accompanied us to a view of pleasant Carcawdy , a little pretty Maritime Town ( built all with Stone ) that stands in the face of the Ocean , and the Frontiers of Fife . But the time and our occasion constrains us to pass by Carcawdy , where the Inhabitants live more upon Fish than Flesh ; from whose slender Ports we must hasten to Brunt-Island , otherwise we endanger losing our Tide , which will much incommode us ; nor can we stay there to examine their Curiosities . Th. What 's this that so naturally represents the Ocean ? And what are those Ships , under Sail ? Or must I fancy them a Landskip of moveable Mountains ? Ar. If you fancy them Ships fluctuating to and fro on those solid Deeps to attempt that Harbour , you are not much mistaken . Th. Is there any Town on those rocky Foundations ? Ar. Yes surely there is ; for we now discover the pleasant Shores of Beautiful Brunt-Island guarded with Rocks , that front the Harbour and the Pier of Leith ; over whose rubified Sands we must plough the Ocean , to those delectable flourishing Ports ; provided the Vessel be tite and unleaky , as questionless this is , design'd for our passage . Th. However I 'll remind you of our hazardous passage from Innerbrachy to the famous Ness , as at another time our personal hazard , when fording over Forres , and the rapid Trespey ; besides other great Rivers and Rivulets in our march , of very swift and violent motion ; which we often discharg'd without the Artifice of Boats : and yet I cannot help that natural Antipathy and Aversion , that I find against Timber Fortifications ; nor can I think them such soveraign Security , but that sometimes they are accompani'd with difficulties and danger . It 's true , I grant that no Man has an infallible Protection for Life ; nor a Pre-knowledg of Sickness , nor sudden Solution . Ar. Well then , if so , transplant those Fears into Foreign Parts ; for we must certainly , and that suddenly , expose our selves to the Mercy of the Sea , by the Providence of God. Nor is the Danger more than Imagination ; for the fear of Death to some Men is more dreadful and terrible than Death it self ; which great Sea we must all sail through , before we cast Anchor in the Port of Eternity . Th. You have sodred the Breach , and salv'd the Wound , that now I itch to be floating on the Ocean . However before we embark for Leith , let us give Nature a Philip in the Arms of Brunt-Island . Ar. All this we may do , and view the Situations too , which stands on a flat and flourishing Level , back'd by Fife , and the Mountains of Mirt , whose Foundations are laid in Rocky Stone , and beautified with the Regularities of Art , where there 's a small but secure Harbour , to rescue the retreats of the terrified Passenger , when pursued with the furious Hostility of Neptune , whose Waves storm the Shores , insinuating themselves into every Creek . But the Beauty of Brunt-Island lies most in her Market-place , which serves for an Exchange , fronting the Harbour , and facing the Ocean ; where all or most of her Merchants Houses stand gazing on the beautiful Pier of Leith . Th. Is this the Vessel design'd for our passage ? I fancy the Waves begin to work , for my Belly I 'm sure begins to wamble . See how the wrack of Clouds thicken the Air , and the unlimited Winds rend the Sky . Who can judg the result of these surly beginnings , or hope a good issue in the Conclusion ? The very body of the Sea divides , and opens like a Sepulchre to swallow up the Rocks , in whose Concealments lie the Terrors of Death . The Deeps to my fancy are broke up ; for my nauseating Stomach ebbs and flows with as strong irritations as the Ebulitions of the Ocean . Ar. Those Tides I confess must run violently swift , that are hurried along by such furious Agitations ; but for two Tides to meet in one Sea together , one would think them enough to make an Inundation . Yet how soon these lofty Winds are supprest by a Calm , and every Mortal preserv'd to a Miracle . So that the results of this impetuous Storm , proves only a Fresh and Flourishing Gale , occasioned by the Conflict of Winds and Water ; which forceth the Sea in some measure to be sick , and compels her to vomit , as now she does those neuseous Ejectments , which for ought I know constrains your stomach to lower and strike Sail ; so keep time it may be with the trepidating Ocean ; whose irritations quickened by the Universal Motion , measure proportion with the rest of the Creation . So that this kind of Physick , if I calculate right , may protract your tampering with Physicians in the fall . Th. Of what I 'm assur'd , there 's no need to doubt ; you talk like a Physician ; but not that I think you a Plagiary , that robs the Dead to adorn the Living : Nor a Medicaster upon whose good Deeds the Sun always shines , but the Earth covers all his bad ones . Ar. You have nick't it now I think ; however there 's the Pier of Leith , and the Beauty of Scotland in a little Epitome ; let us enter her Ports to refresh our selves . Th. Shall our Pinnace drop Anchor here , and the Seamen refresh , whilst we step ashore and accomodate our selves ? Ar. Will you close up the Orifice of your relaxed Stomach with a Glass of brisk Claret ? So mingle some Liquor with your Maritime Labours , and thank generous Neptune to act the part of a Physician , to shave off the foreign Ferment from your crude and indigestive Ventricle . Th. I think it not amiss to recal those Spirits , whose continued absence would enervate my digestions , which now I perceive begin to feel warmth ; and my stagnated unactive Blood grows more Vigorous and Active in Circulation . My Pulse also that beats with an equal motion , and my Body begins to summon Supplies , to gratify and satisfy a craving Appetite . Ar. As these are certain Symptoms of Health , you put a delay to what you solicit . Th. If I do , what then ? There 's a superanuated Custom kept up among the Antients ; that to gratify the Appetitie violates the Creation . This was of old the Brachmans Creed , and is to this day the Banians Alcoran , except of late they have changed their Opinion : for they assert , that Nature would be unnatural to her self in the destruction of any thing wherein she favourably had breathed a Life . Ar. Was this the Primitive Practice of our former Ancestors ? Th. I don't say it was , I discourse the Brachmans that offer this Argument . No Man has a Commission to create Life , no Man therefore by any Law or Custom ought to take Life away ; which if he do , he makes himself an Instrument of unnatural Cruelty , and his Body a Sepulchre to bury dead Carcasses in . Ar. But had they consulted our great Oracle Moses , and considered the great Ends of the great Creator , they would speak I fancy another Dialect , and render unto us a different Interpretation . Th. Why so ? Ar. The Iews you may read had a Sanction among themselves , to celebrate Sacrifices according to the Law : and the Christians have a Sanction among themselves also , to celebrate their Devotions according to the Gospel . But the Banians comply with neither of these Sanctions , because placing a Sanctity in Custom and Opinion , not well considering that the World was made for Man , and not Man for the World ; Meats for the Belly , and not the Belly for Meats . This in some measure might reform their error , and undeceive deluded Posterity , hudled under the false gloss of Custom and Opinion . On the other hand , as every Man has a Natural Right and Creational Privilege , as Lord of the Creation ; so no Man has a Creational Right , nor Natural Priviledge to make his Appetite the Rule for Destruction . Providence allows due supplies to every Man ; but no Man can warrant or justify his Riot . Th. Were this Argument approv'd of , it would , I suspect , overthrow our design of Angling . Ar. Not at all ; for my Opinion is , the Argument it self manifestly strengthens it . The Text calls to Peter , Arise , kill and eat ; and Peter objects against what 's common and unclean : But Peter was answered by a Voice from Heaven , Nothing was unclean that God had cleansed . Sacrifices and Oblations were under the Seal of the Law , but the last Supper and Miracles shined under the Sunshine of the Gospel . Adam stood unlimited , the forbidden Tree only excepted . Nature was unconfined , and the Creation blest with multiplicity of Blessings , till Adam's Transgression . But as Nature operates the Will of the Creator , so the Nations shall bow to the Son of God. Th. So let the Argument drop ; only give us a Description of the Situations of Leith . Ar. Leith stands , as you see , situated on a Level surrounded by Sea on the North-East ; and guarded on the South with Neals Craigs , and Arthur's Seat , that hangs over Edinburgh . But the Fabricks of Leith are built with Stone , hovering over the Pier , and fronting the Ocean , almost drown'd under Water ; and that which is worse , if worse can be , those nauseating Scents suckt greedily from the Sea , bring Arguments of Disease , and sometimes Summons for Death . On the other hand , Scotland cannot present you with a more pleasant Port ; for here the Houses and Structures are large and lofty , and the Pier like a Gnomen directs to the Tolbooth . Here also stands a substantial Cawsey that leads to the Bridg , that brings you to a Citadel that was , but now is not , because hudled in dust , and ruinous heaps ; yet not ruin'd by Age , nor torn with the scars and impressions of War ; but Policy , and not Piety , laid her Surface in the Sand. Th. What Merchandize doth she trade in ? Ar. For the most part she trades in Foreign Commodities ; except some Manufactures of their own ; as Ticking , Bedding , Tartan , Pladding , Scots-Cloth , &c. So that Leith for Trade , with her Merchandize for Treasure , excels most , if not all the Maritime Ports in Scotland . Th. Pray what other Accommodation hath she ? Ar. She has Fish and Flesh in abundance , viz. Oysters , Cockles , Muscles , Crabs , Craw-fish , Lobsters , Soles , Plaice , Turbet , Thornback , Cod , Keeling , Haddock , Mackrel , Herring , &c. Then there 's Salmon , Trout , Pike , Perch , Eel , &c. but their Flesh are Beeves , Veals , Porks , Veneson , Kid , Mutton , Lamb , &c. And their Fowl are Eagles , Signets , Hawks , Geese , Gossander , Duck and Mallard , Teal , Widgeon , Cock , Pidgeon , Heath-game , Moorfowl , Curlue , Partridg , Pheasant , Plover Grey and Green , and many more that I cannot remember . So great is their Plenty and Variety , that did not the popularity in Edinburgh render things more chargeable than other Parts more remote up the Country , a Man might live almost without Expence . And now we relinquish the flourishing Ports of Leith , whose Foundations are daily saluted by the Ocean . O how sweetly the Weather smiles , the Horizon looks clear , the Sky is serene , and the Birds you may see them beat the ambient Air with their tunable Notes . Come Theophilus , let us mount our Horses , and lift up your Eyes to behold those lofty Imbellishments of Edinburgh . Th. They are obvious enough , half an Eye may see them . Ar. Welcome to these elevated Ports , the princely Court of famous Edinburgh . This City stands upon a mighty scopulous Mountain , whose Foundations are cemented with Mortar and Stone ; where the bulk of her lofty Buildings represent it a Rock at a reasonable Distance , fronting the approaching Sun ; whose Elevations are seven or eight Stories high , mounted aloft in the ambient Air. But the Length , as I take it , exceeds not one Mile , and the Breadth on 't measures little more than half a Mile ; nor is there more than one fair Street , to my best remembrance . But then it 's large and long , and very spacious , whose Ports are splendid , so are her well-built Houses and Palaces , corresponding very much to compleat it their Metropolis . Th. What Fabrick is that on the East of Edinburgh ? Ar. Hallirood House , the Regal Court of Scotland . Th. But there 's yet another great Fabrick , that presents Westward . Ar. That 's Edinburgh-Castle , elevated in the Air , on an impregnable Precipice of rocky Earth , perpendicular in some Parts , rampir'd and barrocadoed with thick Walls of Stone , and Graffs proportionable , to contribute an additional Strength . So that you are to consisider this inaccessible Castle shines from a natural as well as an artificial Product ; because part of it you see contiguous with the Rock ; but the other part , because affixed by cemented Stone , which inoculates and incorporates them so firmly together , that the whole mass of Building is of such incredible Strength , that it 's almost fabulous for any Man to report it , or sum up the impregnable Lustre and Beauty of this fair Fortress , that defies all Attempts , except Famine , Disease , or Treachery be conduct ; so that Culverins and Cannons signify but little , without Bombs and Carcasses . On the other hand the Defendants must not be too liberal , lest their Water forsake them sooner than their Ammunition ; so inevitably draw upon them the foregoing Consequence , and incommode them with a thousand Inconveniences . True it is , many Arguments of Art and Artillery have been sent to examine this impregnable Castle , but none were ever found more successful than Hunger and Disease , or the golden Apples of the Hesperides . Such kind of Magnets muzzle Mercenaries , and make them a golden Bridg to pass over . Th. Is this fair Fabrick the Parliament-House , where the Grandees sit on National Affairs ? Ar. Yes , this is their Palace where the Parliament sits to accommodate the Kingdom ; whose famous Ports we now relinquish to take a review of the Bars of Musselburg . But that on our right Hand is delicate Dalkeith , surrounded with a Park ; and that on our left Hand is Preston-pans , where the Natives make Salt from the Brine of the Ocean . That other Town before us is the Corporation of Haddington ; and this is the Brill ; but the Bass you may see is a prodigious Rock , that makes an Island on the Skirts of the Ocean . Th. Is this the Place where the Solon Geese breed , that are Flesh in Hand , but Fish in the Mouth ? a Mystery I fancy not inferiour to the Barnicle . Ar. You say true , it 's a great Mystery , if seriously to consider the Footsteps of Nature ; which I shall explain without a Paradox . Do but observe that elevated Rock that breaks the Air , in that seeming solitary floating Island ; it 's upon that Rock , and only there , that she hatches and initiates her young Ones into the World , by exposing her Egg to the open Air , and the utmost extremity of stormy Winds ; and those Eggs , or the Squirts ( with other Fowls ) are so fix'd by contact of a glutinous Specimen to the remote Points of the Rocks , that they seem conglutinated , and so intirely inoculated , as that no extremity of Weather can separate them asunder , and where the Female never hatches more than one single Egg at once : and that Egg she plants so evenly in the Web of her Foot , by placing her Body exactly over it ; that when she relinquisheth the Rock for Relief , with admirable Circumspection she raises her self , by cautiously dilating her Web , as the Aspry does to circulate the Air , who after the same Method as when she leaves her Egg , so she falls by circulating the Air , and dilating her Web in the same order and decorum as above ; with such an exact poize and evenness of Body to cover her Egg , that no Art nor Industry can imitate or accomplish . So that the Egg no sooner sprits , but it tumbles down into the brinish Ocean for Nature to nourish it . After this manner she hatcheth her young Ones ; and after this manner I am authorized to publish it . Th. So much for Geese , this was a Rarity indeed ; but not so eminently remarkable as the six great Patriots of the English Nation . Ar. You push too hard upon me , however I 'll name them and no more : there were four great Harries ( viz. ) Ireton , Vane , Nevill and Martin , and one marvelous Andrew , or Andrew Marvel . Th. Still here is but Five , what 's become of the Sixth ? Ar. You will find him at Dunbar swadling the Scots . Th. What! England's great General , the most renowned , valorous , and victorious Conqueror , Oliver Cromwel . Ar. Yes , that was he that swing'd off the Scots in those solitary Planes , and swelling Hills , near the Ports of Dunbar : there it was that Cromwel and Lesly disputed by dint of Sword , and the formidable Terror of Gun-shot , in which fatal Engagement the Scots were routed , and fled the Field ; whilst the Conqueror's Army sprinkled the Earth with bloody Sacrifices ; converting the green Meadows into purple Planes . Th. And did not that great General then take in Tamtallon-Castle ? Ar. Presently after he did ; and that 's the Place ; how do you like it ? Th. Not at all , I fancy it a Place but of little Strength . Ar. However it covers the Pass of Copperspeth , that we now pass through to ascend these dirty miry Moors , which direct to the beautiful Battlements of Berwick , an English Town upon Scotish Ground , whose Banks are bath'd with the sturdy Torrents of Tweed , that descend from a mountainous Elevation , in or near to Erricksteen ; distant about some eight or nine Miles from the famous Tintaw , whose eminent Ascents face the English Frontiers , standing on the Borders or South Marshes of Scotland . So that from Erricksteen , though some alledg from Tintaw , runs the glittering and resolute Streams of Tweed . However Tintaw is a prodigious Mountain , whose lofty Broaches break the burdned Clouds . And such is Errick , if Fame be a true Oracle , that spouts forth three large and spacious Rivers that wash the pleasant Banks of Scotland ; one of them is Tweed ( as above express'd ) that runs East directly to the Town of Berwick , and espouseth her self with the Ocean there ; gliding along the English Promontories , and is the Original of Tweed's Dale . Another River is Annon , that bathes the fertil and florid Banks of England , and creates a Dale , called Annon's Dale ; so glides along towards the quaking Sands ; and not far from Carlisle lancheth forth into the Ocean . But the third is Cloyd , and is the last mentioned ; yet is it nothing inferior to any of the former . This River directs her Course North and by West , towards the lofty and domineering Turrets of Dumbarton ; near unto those famous Elevations she mingles her Streams with the profound Depths of the Ocean , and is the Author of Cloyd's Dale . Now all these spacious and peremptory Rivers , are derived from the Springs in the Mountain of Errick ; but some alledg from Tintaw , on whose Top stands a Capsula , on the Front of the Hill directing Southward ; from whence those smaller Streams separate themselves , through craggy Passages and Cavities in Rocks ; so trickling down , they sprinkle the moorish Meadows , admitting of many other small Rills and Rivulets to mingle with them , in their more resolute Passage . Th. What have you there ? Ar. An Aenigma of the famous Tintaw ; which with much difficulty I procured from the Collections of a Scots Antiquary , that lived sometime in the Town of Kilsieth ; who to answer my Solicitations concerning Tintaw , gave me , as you may read , this following Paradox . On Tintaw Top thar dwells a Mist ; And e'en that Mist thar is a Kist. Spere in that Mist , thar stands a Cop , And e'en that Cop thar is a Drop . Take up the Cop , drink oot the Drop ; Than put the Kist intul the Mist , On Tintaw Top. Th. What stuff 's here ; Riddle me Riddle me , what 's this ? Ar. It is a Riddle , and stuff'd with Varieties ; and so let it remain till explicated by such as travel those solitary Tracts ; or solicit Acquaintance with some of our solent Society . And now Scotland I bid thee farewel , to advance Great Britain's Southern Territories , ( the Magnet ) only Berwick upon Tweed we select for this Night's accommodation , where we need not doubt of English Entertainment . That 's the Town that discovers it self by those lofty Turrets ; let us sleep there this Night , and bid Scotland farewel to Morrow . Th. Rest and Refreshment seem Relatives to Travellers . Ar. So Discourse and discovery of Objects and Prospects claim a like Privilege , to plant the sweets of Diversion in Anglers and others . Th. Yes surely , otherwise I had lost my Expectation ; and this Day 's Journey broke the Heart of a Traveller . Ar. Then to cement it again , what if I proceed to instruct you of all those eminent Rivers and Rivulets , in our passage Southward , till we arrive at the beautiful Streams of triumphant Trent ; whose florid and fertil Banks , with a Majestick Brow , smile on the amorous Fields , and England's Elizium , the Forest of Sherwood ; whose shady Trees , as a Pavilion , shelter and solace the Contemplative Angler : there it is that Philomel melts the Air in delightful Groves ; there the Hills will shelter us , the Rocks surround us , and the shady Woods relieve and retrieve us , whilst Nottingham , that Non such , doth sweeten our Ears with delicious Consorts , & our Eyes with variety of Buildings , that stand in a serene and wholsom Air. But their Cellarage , beyond compare , is the best in England , and most commodious , and the whole Town situated on a pleasant Rock ; where the Streets are adorned with beautiful Houses , the florid Fields fill'd with sweet Aroma's ; and the exuberant Meadows enrich'd with fragrant Perfumes , that will ravish the Angler , if when to trace and examine the gliding silver Streams of famous Trent . Th. Rome was not built in a Day , nor are my Resolutions so precipitant to build without Materials ; for if rash Results reap Repentance , it 's good and wholsome Advice , to look before we Leap ; an old Proverb is a good Premonition , and a timely Premonishment prevents a Premonire . I cannot say where to settle , but am desirous my Lot may fall in or near to the Forest of Sherwood , that mingles her Shades with the florid Meadows that adorn the beautiful Streams of Trent ; on whose polite Sands and murmuring Streams , I could freely espouse my vacant Hours . Ar. In the mean time as we travel these Northern Tracks , give me leave to inform you of the Names of those flourishing Rivers , and gliding Rivulets , till our Eyes make a discovery of the beautiful and solitary Shades of Sherwood , whose amorous Bowers Nature her self has curiously drest up to adorn the delightful Meadows , and translucid Streams of the famous Trent . Where we may gratify and satisfy our selves with the Rod , and inrich our selves with the sweet Progress of Peace : for having the Forest of Sherwood on the North , the Vale of Belvoir on the South , and the transparent glittering Streams in the Centre , what can we propound to sweeten our Recreation more , than to mingle our sober Thoughts with the Divine Prospect of Contemplation ? Th. I approve of your Contrivance for a solitary Life , which gratifies and compensates both Labour and Study . Ar. And will it not furnish us with Arguments against immoderate Excess , and the violent pursuit after Recreation ? Besides , it will sweeten our Lives with the life-touches of Vertue , and the property of such things as may best conduce to the present Occasion ; as also for our future Advantage . As for example ; when returning from Trent triumphant with Spoil , what hinders us to refresh with Rhetorick from Apollo ? I know that you 'l grant Piety the best Expositor of a holy Life ; and if so , it gives us the most lively and amiable prospect of Eternity , whilst the World , and malicious Men , like ravenous Vultures , unnaturally tear out one anothers Bowels . Th. It 's true , I acknowledg that Sin , like a Cart-rope , draws down Destruction on every Generation : And is not that Generation ripe enough for Destruction , where the Streets are storm'd with Oaths and Impieties ; and the Houses blackned with blasphemous Imprecations ; not a Sin cruciated , nor a Lust mortified ? Surely that Nation stands a tip-toe that leans upon the rotten Props of Pride ; and will not Pride ( think you ) sink it self , so inevitably fall with its own Weight ? Look but upon the Foundation of National Piety ; and you 'l see how it lies in the arms of National Polity . Will this suppress the Vice of the Times , and work a Reformation in Religion and good Manners , such as cruciat Christ every Day , vilifie Christianity , by putting Christ to open Shame , and a rape upon Conscience to gratify their Luxury . So not only endangers themselves , but that Nation , and those Natives so unhappy to live with them . Ar. Though a spark of Fire shine bright , yet every shining Spark is not a Star ; nor does the orderly laying the Sacrifice on the Altar , merit the descent of Fire from Heaven to kindle it : that Man that acts by the Law of his Lust , imprisons his Faith , and murders his Reason . There is a Generation of Men that call the sacred Scriptures a Scare-Crow of Religion , to frighten People from the Duties of Christianity ; nay they 'l tell you , that Faith , Hope and Charity , are useless Instruments and Arguments to explain the Mind of God : but such Men approve themselves Proficients of Hell , that run besides the Text to become disobedient to all the Commandments . Man blown up with the blast of Ambition , makes it a Rule of Faith to study Revenge ; so puts a Sword to his own Throat , and yet cries out some other hurts him . Hypocrites of all Men are dip'd in the deepest Die , and doom'd to a lower Hell than either Scribe or Pharisee : whilst the more Religious contemplate Vision , and seek the Seraphick Life of Angels , which inclines me to an Hermetick Life , that speaks more Piety than Pageantry ; more Religion than Prophaneness ; more Services than Sacrifices ; more Adoration to God , than to Temples built with Hands . But where are we now ? see here Theophilus . Th. What shall I see ? Ar. Beggarly Belgrade , the first Post-stage in England . Th. Indeed I took it for a Remnant of Scotland , but am glad to discover my Native Country in any Dress : I fancied I felt English Air , before I touch'd English Earth . Ar. Here 's another Object . Th. What 's that ? Ar. The Ruins and Remains of an antient Castle , whose beautiful Impressions are almost blotted out , by the shady Strokes and Impressions of Time , that writes marginal Notes on her tottering Battlements . And such is the Town , crazy and weather-beaten , standing upon Stilts ; and because besieg'd with an unweildy Wall , makes it look not unlike a Pilgrim ; or rather an infirm Penitent , that moves slowly and creeps to his Grave ; so do her antient Ruins slide into Dust : these are her Ports , if you please let us enter . Near to this Alnwick runs the River Aln , or rather a Rivulet . Distant from hence about some seven Miles Southward stands Felton-Bridg built all with Stone , under which there glides most limpid Streams that accommodate the Angler . Th. Shall we touch there ? Ar. Not now , Time won't permit us ; but as we descend these Mountains , we discover Morpeth , whose Banks are bath'd with the River Mor , where as yet remain the Reliques and Ruins of an antient Castle , whose Beauty is almost blotted out with Age , or some other Irregularities , that prognostick Time or War the fatal Instruments to deface her Battlements . Th. What fair Object is that before us ? Ar. This eminent Object that we now discover , is the Town of Newcastle , rich in Merchants , and many other Gentlemen of valuable Estates ; the wealthy Walls of this Town are wash'd with the profitable Streams of Tine ; a River that 's not only considerably deep , but proportionably large and spacious , whose Banks and Shores are sullied with Coal ; whose Product supplies all the Southern Parts , and accommodates England , which otherwise would be all Ice , were not Newcastle Sun enough to thaw it ; and London I perswade my self would be but a cold Constellation , did not this Ignis fatuus shine in every Corner of her beautiful Palaces . Nay most of our Maritime Towns , and all her Cinque-Ports , would coagulate into a Concression , did not this blazing Comet shine in every Chimney . But I must relinquish this Mundane Star , to climb up the South , to those most pleasant and beautiful Galleries of Albion . Th. What Town is this ? Ar. This is Durham ( and a Palatinate ) where you may see an eminent but antient Cathedral , begirt with the self-same Wall that encircles the Town ; whose Foundations are wash'd with the Streams of Weer ; and where the Palaces are pleasant , and in some parts Beautiful , because shadowed with Art , and polish'd with Industry . Nay the whole Country presents a Scene of Pleasure , because plentifully stock'd with Corn and Cattle . Moreover it is very well supplied with Coal , but not to ballance with the stock of Newcastle . Th. Whereabouts are we now ? Ar. Our Course directs us to dirty Darlington , and that 's a Town that stands in stiff Clay , yet centred in a plentiful part of a Country . More Southward yet , and about some three Miles off , glide the glittering Streams of the River Tee , whose Fords are furnish'd with incomparable Trout , as are her Deeps with the race of Salmon . But our next Post-stage is the Town of North-Ollerton , ( a Northern Situation ) famous for nothing that I know of , except a weather-beaten Castle , demolish'd with Age , and the Ruins of Time ; which serves as a Reception now for Bats and Buzards , Owls and Jack-daws . However the Town stands sweetly situated in a rich Soil , and fertil Fields ; witness her plenty of Corn , and her fair and large-headed Cattle . More Southward yet , and about some seven Miles from hence , stands the Town of Topliff ; but at the South end of the Town stands a Bridg of Stone , that straddles over the sullen Swale . There is little remarkable here besides the River , except the Soil and solitary Meadows . Th. Whereabouts are we now ? Ar. Why now we are come to Burrough-Brigs ; at the North end thereof runs the River Yor , into which falls the trembling Streams of Neid ; so incorporating together , they gulf into Owse . In these solitary Fields , there stand seven great prodigious Stones , elevated like Pyramids in the ambient Air , of such vast Magnitude ( and regular Proportion ) that they strike deep Impressions into the solid Body of Earth . I curiously enquired after the meaning of these Reliques , but no Man was found to answer my Inquisitions : from whence I concluded these signal Remembrances might remain as Trophies or Monuments of Victory ; and that the Natives and Inhabitants that dwelt thereabouts , but little busied themselves to rifle into Records . Further than this , I can give no account . Th. Whereabouts stands York ? Ar. The City of York stands distant from these pleasant Fields , about some seven or eight Northern Miles : the Foundation of whose flourishing Ports are washed with the mild and moderate Waves of the Navigable Owse ; whose owsy Shores , and silent sullied Streams mingle themselves with the more resolute Torrents of Trent , and so gulph into the spacious Arms of Humber . In this City you shall see a sumptuous Cathedral , imbellished with Art and polish'd Stone : every one that sees it , admires and commends it ; and so do I for a rare Piece of Art , and a beautiful Fabrick . Th. And what then , is it ever the better for your admiring on 't ? Ar. It 's never the worse , nor is Weatherbee neither , through which runs Warff ; where there stands a stately Bridg of Stone , over those rocky Foundations that secure her scaly Inhabitants , viz. the Trout and Salmon . From hence we fadg to Ferry-Brigs ; but in our Passage , we meet with a knotty stony Cawsy that accommodates the Traveller , when the Banks o'reflow those florid Meadows . About three Miles Southward there runs a Rivulet , but I call it a Rill , that gives name to the Town ; where note , the Inhabitants call it Went-Bridg . Th. Whereabouts are we now ? Ar. On the Skirts of Doncaster , so called from the River Dun , portable sometimes to the Verge of the Town ; at other times hardly Water enough to turn a Mill , or float a Cock-boat . It 's a Corporation , and a Manufacture ; if weaving and knitting Stockings , and Wastcoats will warrant it : Now you must know that this Town stands in the Post-road ▪ where a Man may be welcome that brings Money ; otherwise he may step by the Borders of Bawtry , and consult the melancholy Streams of Idle , whose Banks are burdned with Segs and Bulrushes . But these glittering Streams over which we now pass , flow from the Sharps of merry Merial . Th. Why then we touch on the Skirts of the Forest. Ar. We have pass'd through the Heart on 't ; for now we discover the weather-beaten Walls , and the ruinous Battlements of the Town of Newark , whose flourishing Fields are bath'd with the slippery Streams of silver Trent , that glides along through the fragrant Fields , to wash the Foundation of her florid Meadows ; so tumbles down , but with a soft and murmuring Noise , from her more remote and Westerly Fountains . Thus Trent slides along through diversified Mixtures , and various Soils , ( besides polite and glittering Sands ) amalgamiz'd with marly Oakry Earths , Alabaster Rocks , red and discoloured Clays , and polish'd Pavements of transparent Stones . So that from the West , with a strong and swift Current , Trent drinks up the torpid surly Sow that floats near the Walls of the Town of Stafford . And then the timorous Tame falls in , that glides below the Town of Tamworth : the silent Dove also , that melts the smiling Banks of Tidbury , mingles her Streams with Trent below Monk's Bridg. And the resolute Darwin that salutes the Ports of Derby , falls into Trent below Wilden-Ferry . So the sullen Soar that leads through Leicester , glides into Trent near to Red Hill. Besides , the little Leen , whose limpid Streams wash the beautiful Rocks and the Shores of Nottingham , she also pays Tribute at Trent-Bridge , and the smooth faced Snite that scours the Vale of Belvoir , slides into Trent near the sandy Foundations of Newark . But nearer the Marshes falls in the Merial ; so does the Idle in the Isle of Axholm . The portable Streams of Owse also salute the Torrents of Trent , before her espousals with the spacious Humber ; for till then Trent retains her Original Name , notwithstanding the various and complicated mixture of Streams , which are many more that glide into Trent , and would swell my Volume if but to name them . Th. If they be nameless , let them alone ; and proceed if you please with the Corporation of Newark . Ar. Newark , you may see her Antient Ports stoop with Age , and her Bulwarks lie buried in sandy Earth , and amalgamiz'd together with the surface of the Soil , whose Banks are saluted with the Torrents of Trent , and whose sandy Foundations , and cultivated Fields sweetned with the Fragrances of her Florid Meadows , adorn the North ; but most pleasant and delectable Pastures adorn the East , whilst her Southern Fields are fill'd with the Treasures of Corn ; besides the Fertility of the Flourishing Vale of Belvoir supplies her Granaries ; as her Western fragrant Meadows reach up to Nottingham . So that upon the matter this Town of Newark ( but not Noahs-Ark ) is besieged with Plenty . In the Center of this Town is an exact Pavement , Quadrangular , Regular , Uniform and Spacious ; and in the Center of this Center stands a Market-house , piazza'd or bolstred up with Wooden Props , commoded with a Roof of Lead and Tile ; but the general scope of this fair Pavement requires a more exact method of Pen than mine is , to describe it . For that end I proceed to some other particulars , as their Gates ; because when to consider that this Town of Newark ( to my Observation ) has but one fair Street , which is called by the Name of Todman-Street ; but the Gates are Miln-gate , Middle-gate , Kirk-gate , Castle-gate , Nor-gate , Appleton-gate , Barnby-gate , Bolderton-gate and Carter-gate . There is also Beamont-Cross , Potter-Dike , Hell-end , and Cotes-Bridg . From the South-West end of this Maiden Garison , stood the Queen's Sconce , facing the Trent , but the King's Sconce ( or Sconce Royal ) was to the Eastward . So that the whole Town seemed almost Invincible , ( as it was Defensible ) because so well defended with Men , Arms , Ammunition and Artillery , besides such deep Grafts , Bastions , Horns , Half-Moons , Counter-scarps , Redoubts , Pit-falls , and an impregnable Line of Sadd and Turff , palizadoed and stockaded , and every Fort so furnished with great Guns and Cannon , that this bulky Bulwark of Newark represented to the Besiegers but one entire Sconce ; and the two Royal Forts , the formidable Flankers : Nor was there a Tree to hinder her prospect . At the North end of Newark , supervising the Trent , ( and her redolent Meadows ) stands to this Day the Relicks and Ruins of a fair Castle , whose solid Foundations were cemented with Stone ; and all the Walls , Buttresses and Battlements with the same Material ; whose imbellished Front overlook'd the fragrant Meadows of Trent , and was the last reception for King Iohn ; who after his return from Swinsted-Abby ( where the Monk poisoned him ) lodg'd within the Portals of this fair Palace . There it was that he seal'd the Decrees of Death that compell'd him to take leave of the World. Another Curiosity is their Collegiate Church , beautified and garnished with fair Free-stone . The Quire or Body , and the Isles , very large and spacious ; the Roof covered all over with Lead , but the Broach and Tower excels in height , because to vie with most Parochial Churches in England . This Maiden Garison had her Ports guarded with Artillery ( as above exprest ) and was made equal in success with the most fortunate Garisons relating to the Royal Interest . Here are four Fairs quarterly proclaimed every Year by the Mayor and Aldermen of the Town of Newark ; besides the Weak-day Market , and a running Trade with the Country round about them . From the North come those large and fair fronted Cattle , that fill Newark Folds ; and on Wednesday every Week their Market is duly observed , where you may see this large Pavement as 't were overspread and crouded with Corn , and the Shambles , as any Market in the County , furnish'd with Flesh : Besides in the very front of this general Exchange , the Stalls are as well burden'd with Fish. Moreover , Fowl , with Fruits , and many other Entertainments , they have in abundance . But now I think it high time to relinquish the Ports of Newark , to scale the famous Ascents of Trent , whose generous Streams invite us Westward . Th. This Corporation ( I perceive ) by your relation , has been a Fortress almost impregnable . Ar. There was none beyond it Northward , and I 'm sure Southward there was none comparable to it . So that above and beneath this Town of Newark , as we ride along , you may observe mighty blough Banks , and incomparable Deeps , with pleasant slaty and secure Fords , polished with Gravel , and enamel'd with Sand ; but in some other parts , you shall observe but little disproportion betwixt the Surface of Earth , and the Level of Trent ; when on a sudden again , some knotty Coagulum of incrustated Earth ( sometimes Rocky and sometimes Marley ) steps up to secure the Continent , and rebuke her swelling murmuring Streams , seemingly discontent to leave the amorous Shores in their more rapid and violent precipitation . Th. What Town call you this , about some two Miles from Newark ? Ar. This is Farnton , which fares very well from the benevolent Breasts and amorous Arms of Trent ; whose Shores are saluted with her silent Streams , as her Meadows are enrich'd with the soveraign Soil of Trent , that makes glad her Inhabitants . So that from Farnton about a Mile or two stands Stoak in a sweet Soil , whose Banks and shady Bowers are perpetually bathed with the solitary gliding Streams of Trent , that smile on her florid Fields , whilst the beautiful fragrant Meadows are constantly courted with soft Salutes and Embracements from the mild and moderate Streams of our Western Fountain . Th. What a pleasant part of a Country is this ! Ar. Pleasant do you say ! do but propound what Pleasure is , and see if any place in England excels it . This is the place that 's call'd Hazelford-Clift , from a stately imbellished flourishing Wood , that borders South on the side of Trent , that climbs up a Rocky and Mountanous Elevation , facing the North , and the delectable Shades of the Forest of Sherwood ; whose beautiful Banks and delightful Shores , are celebrated to the pleasant Amours of Trent , defended on the South by the Vale of Belvoir , and guarded from the North by the shady Trees of the Forest : but her East is refresh'd by fragrant Meadows , cultivated Fields , and delightful Pastures , adorned with most excellent Rills , Rivulets and Fountains . This is our inamouring Northern Prospect , the Anglers Arcadia , the greatest Aviary , and the most mellifluous Consort in Nottingham-Shire . Nay , it 's England's Elizium , if Elizium be any where . Of which if any doubt to trace or find out , it 's here to be found , if any where in England ; otherwise he may conclude that Elizium's but a fiction ; for if not understood in these fragrant Fields , pardon me to think , nay I dare to assert it 's no where else . Th. Indeed it 's a sweet place , I have never seen the like before ; but what Town is that ? Ar. This Town we call Knieton ; it stands yet more West , elevated on a Rocky Precipice of Albaster , and red Marly Earth , hovering over the Streams of Trent ; and borders on the skirts of the Vale of Belvoir , facing the Forest ; and Bridgeford lies much on the same Level , West South-West , guarded with Rocks and stately Mountains , opposite as I take it to the Inundations of Trent . But the Town of Gunthorp stands directly North , blest with flourishing and florid Meadows ; whose Fragrancy oftimes perfumes the Shores , as Trent's proud Waves besprinkle her Sands . Shelford you may see inclines yet more Westward , whose Foundations I have considered lie so low and flat , that they level the very Surface of Trent ; but Burton and Bulcoat stand North of her Ruins , and are shaded by the flourishing Trees of the Forest. Th. What have we here ? Ar. Gedlin and Carleton , these lie yet more West , and incline , if I mistake not , two Points to the Northward ; but the Palace of Holm-peirpoint adorns the South : From whose beautiful Elevations we discover the Battlements , and some part of the Situations of famous Nottingham ; whose odoriferous Gardens perfume the Air ; and whose florid Fields , and fragrant Meadows , glut the Scickle , and satiate the Sithe . Th. Grant my Allowances , and I 'll give you my Opinion ; and not stick to tell you , that Trent surpasseth Tagus , notwithstanding the boast of her Golden Sands ; whose transparent and translucid Streams , strike deep Impressions , and ravishing refreshing Resentments , inviting the Contemplative Angler to consider the plenty , and the great variety that are daily drag'd forth out of her bountiful and well furnished Streams , enough one would think to cause Admiration , which formerly I could never believe : But now I 'm convinced beyond opposition . Ar. Nay 't is true , and I can tell you more ; that Speed and Cambden , both of Authentick Authority , will also tell you , that the swelling breasts of admired Trent , hourly relieve thirty sorts of Fish ; and that her Arms embrace as many Market-Towns , and as many Castles are implanted on her cultivated Suburbs ; and that thirty Rivers also mingle themselves with Trent's more resolute and sturdy Streams , and with the loss only of their Virgin Names : Which report if any one question it , you shall find recorded in Voluminous History . But had they practically and experimentally consulted Trent , as my self ( and some others ) have done , they had without dispute met with more variety of Fish than they inserted , or modestly included in their publick Impressions . Th. That 's strange ; pray untie the knot . Ar. What great difficulty is it , think you , to prove that , that every Angler frequently experiments , if he but take pains to examine her Fords , or seriously peruses this Catalogue of Fish ; where he shall find twenty two sorts of edible Fish that daily accost the Silver Streams of Trent . Now the rest you are to consider , especially some of them are never to be dealt with by the trembling Rod , nor the feeble force of a slender Line . Such Fish , I must confess , as are more than ordinarily resolute , are doom'd to die by the Law of the noosy Net. Th. You have the Catalogue I presume , pray accommodate me with it . Ar. That I 'll freely do . Here — Hold forth your hand , and take this little Book ; And when you fish , on your Directions look ; Till Theory speak you Master , then you may Compleat your self in Practicks day by day . So understand the various change and season , How to catch Fish , and after give your reason . There 's few that fish these Streams know all the Fish The Trent affords to Anglers , and their Dish : Here 's Pickrel , Barbel , Burbolt , Rud and Roach , Graylin , Flounder , Cheven , Perch and Loach , Bream and Tench , Carp and Gudgeon , Dace and Ruff , Eel , Lampre , Bleak , Minue , some Silk , some Stuff . Twenty in number I have here exprest , Some daily taken ; season for the rest . There yet remain two nobler sorts behind , To make them twenty two ; but then their kind Are Trout and Salmon , those are Fish that waste In time of Travel , besides they lose their Taste And sweet Complexion ; chiefly at such time When out of Season ; what remains in prime Summer and Winter , Spring and Autumn flees : The blooming Leaf drops from the fading Trees . Nature appropriates each thing to its kind , As well in Fish as Flesh , this Truth we find By daily Observation ; provide we Search but the Records , and the Mysterie Of Mother Art , by Nature first instructed , From whence all finite beings are producted . Th. Now I 'm convinced . Ar. Then it 's your duty to labour to convince others . Th. So I will , if the Anglers Catalogue can do it . Ar. And if that won't do it , let it be undone : However it may serve some Iuniors for Diversion . Th. Ay , and Seniors too , had we but your Additional Supplement of the residue of Fish ; which being wanting , will in my Opinion render the residue of your Discoveries imperfect . Ar. That I resolve against , though we drag them forth from their holds and fastnesses by violence . And first , I 'll begin with the Sturgeon , then the Shad , the Porposs , the Congar , Lampern , Fluke , the Aromatick Smelt , Sandeel , Craw-Fish , Bulhead , and that little supernumerary the Bant or Stittlebag ; which needs no Net to drag him out . Th. Nor an Arithmetician to sum them up , for my Calculation compleats them to thirty three ; besides some Foreigners , to most unintelligible . Now as we trace the beautiful Banks , and the amorous Shores of famous Trent , that invites to Solitudes and Experience , we may mingle Rewards among our Recreations , and sweeten our Labours and Industry with Divine Contemplation ; a Study the indigent World is ignorant of . What are these ! the stupendous Fabricks of Nottingham , whose Foundations are laid in Rocky Sand , and so firmly rivited into the Bowels of the Earth , that neither Age nor Time can hardly decay them ? And was this that impregnable Castle , elevated on a Rock , and lifted up so high as to storm the Air , and supervise the bordering Inhabitants that dwell in the florid Vale of Belvoir ? Was this that great Ornament that adorn'd the Country , that sleeps now in dust ? Ar. These are the Relicks of that famous Antiquity , where Art and Industry discovered themselves inseparable Companions . Let us approach her beautiful Ports , inrich'd with three Parish Churches ; but one of them of late was torn in pieces with Martial Treats . But to speak the Truth , it was by provocation : For the Pulpit you must know vied with the Peerage for Superiority ; and that made the Souldiers commit Sacrilege , and undress this beautiful Relick , that lies now in silence , and hudled in ashes becomes her own Sepulchre . Now the Cellerage in these Situations of Nottingham , are the most commodious that I know in England ; whose descents you may trace twenty or thirty Foot from the surface of the Soil . But there are other Cellars that almost court Day , where they make their Malt , and lodg Commodities either for a Domestick or Foreign Trade . For so great is the Plenty she draws from the breasts of the Country , that were she wanting in her self , they would want themselves in wanting her . Another Rarity it behoves the Reader to observe ; and that is , upon examination her Wells will be found as deep , if not in some places deeper , than their Cellars . Yet amongst all her stately Imbellishments , we petrole as I remember but two fair Streets ; the rest are Gates , Allies , Rows , Lanes , Marshes , &c. But the Prospect as we advance , presents to the South , and the generous Streams of Silver Trent , directing to the Leen-Bridg , facing the hollow Stone ; or rather , as I may term them , habitable Rocks , through which we ascend to consult those splendid Inhabitants , that live under a well-polished Government , and those other Circumstantials of Civility and Ingenuity . Now this Avenue of Fishergate , we leave on our right hand ; and that on our left , is the Marshes , as we ascend to climb up the hollow Stone , and mount the Elevations of a large and spacious Street , called the High Pavement : but Stony-Street and Pepper-Street , are all the Streets in Nottingham . The rest are either Lanes or Gates : as Mary-Gate , Pilcher-Gate , Fletcher-Gate , Well-Gate , Boyard-Lane , Swinegreen , Saint-Iones's , and Hockly in the Hole , &c. But the Week-day Shambles we leave on our right hand ; and on our left , those sandy Foundations that face the South ; whose Skirts are moistned with the generous Leen , and there live the Tanners , Tawyers , Fell-mongers , Parchment and Vellum-dressers , besides the Glutiners , that dwell in Houses contiguous with the Rocks ; but the Buildings are not under-ground , though stooping so low as to level some part of the very surface , refresh'd with fragrant Aromas , sent from the florid Meadows of Trent . But this Terra Nova , or Terra Incognita , they generally call it the Narrow-Marsh . Th. Whereabouts are we now ? Ar. Now we descend to the lower Pavement , by dividing the Town-Hall from the Leaden Well , near unto which the Week-day Cross is frequently crowded with Country Curiosities : but advancing forward in a direct line , we encounter the Fronteers of Castle-gate , and leave the broad Marsh , and Grayfrier-gate on our left hand . Towards the upper end of which , and not far from Hungate , stood the Imbellishments of Nicholas Church , associating with some inconsiderable Lanes , Allies and Caves ; but inclining yet more Westward , and nearer the Castle , remain the Bogholes , and the Brewhouse-yard . But I forgot to tell you , that in the very Centre , or Division of the Pavement , there stands a Bow ( or a fair Port ) opposite to Bridle-smith-Gate ; adjoining to which , is Girdle-smith-Gate ; and next unto that , is Peter-Gate , a derivative from the Church that fronts the West Angle , and directs into Hungate . But presupposing your Station at the North end of Bridle-smith-Gate ; immediately then you face Hen-Cross , which in a direct line leads on to Cow-lane-Bar ; but if otherwise you incline to the Left , then you leave the Saturday Shambles , the Fruiterers and the Cage on your right Hand , and Peck-lane that directs to Peter's Church , on your left ; but if pointing your Passage towards the Western Angle , you then enter the Sands , and also the Sheep-Market , which is commonly kept upon Timber-hill . Now advancing more Westward , you enter the Friers , but on the left Hand of your Entrance , is Wheeler-gate ; and on your Right , is the Beast-market that fronts the Long-Row , into which , and from the Skirts of the Forest , there presents a small Avenue , some call it Sheep-lane ; opposite to which is Saint Iohn's-Lane , but that descends in a direct Line , either from the Castle , or Boston-Bridg ; so that the Ornament , Gaity and Beauty , is the Long-Row . Beauty did I say ? all the Town is a Beauty , if you consider her stately Buildings . Now as you pass through the Long-Row , it directs to Bar-gate . On the left Hand of whose ruinous Antiquities , and upon a rising Elevation of Ground , the Standard Royal was advanced by Charles the First , near to the Reliques and Remains of that sumptuous Castle , not far from the obscurements of Mortimer's-hole . I must confess there needs no great Noise to trumpet the Fame of this Non-such Nottingham , whose plenty , if I mistake not , fills every neighbouring County ; and whose generous Breasts recruit not only Travellers and Foreigners , but send supplies to all the Villages that border about her ; whose Granaries commode the British Continent ; and whose liberality extended to adjacent Parts , interprets Nottingham to be no Town , but rather the inland Mart and Store-house of Great-Britain . Th. But how will the Reader descant upon all these eminent Encomiums ? Ar. It matters not a rush how any Man resents it , since Nottingham of it self so well deserves it . For if with freedom I may declare my own Opinion , I must confess my Fancy too flatulent , my Strain too torpid , my Pen not elegant , nor my Stile polite enough to illustrate the Beauty of such stately Inbellishments , the admired Subject of every Man's Praise ; which more worthily deserves the Applause of an ingenious Historiographer , rather than the Character of so weak a Surveyer . However , I have done what I was able to do , and shall now leave the Scenes for some other to decipher , that 's more intelligible , and capable to perform such a Work than my self . Yet give me leave once again to drive the Nail a little further ; when to evince the Dissatisfied that Nottingham ( as prenoted ) is no Town , but rather a beautiful and imbellish'd Seraglio , where every Street , nay every Port , represents as it were the new Face of a Court. Th. Or a Comet . Ar. Then what if I call it our Northern Star , to influence and reflect on the Southern Elevations , and because being bless'd with the Blessings of Trade and Fertility ; but could I say she liv'd without the Vanity of Prodigality , then would I stile her a Vertue as well as a Beauty ; where Art and Invention have supplies and encouragement ; and where new Fabricks are hourly lifted up into the ambient Air. So that a Man would think her to sprout and vegetate , by the daily Progress she makes in her Buildings . So that when you come to fee her Arbours and Aviaries , so naturally dress'd up in the Shades of the Forest , and perfum'd with Fragrancies from the redolent Meadows of Trent ; besides the pleasant Prospect it has into the cultivated Fields in the fruitful Vale of Belvoir , then would you say that Nottingham is the Magazine for Cheshire and Lancashire ; and the daily supply of those Mountainous Parts in the Peak of Derby-shire . These are those Ports , where the Angler ( and Ingenious ) never yet entred without sober Accommodation , let us therefore first consult the Virtuoso's of the Rod ; afterwards sweeten our Ears with Rhetorique from Apollo . Th. As you have given us a fair and large Character of Nottingham , so have you been as copious in your practical Experiments of Angling , and brought to Test the undeniable Assertions of Truth , not imaginary Fragments , nor Romantick Fictions , stoln or suggested by plundring Plagiaries . Now every one knows that Ignorance emulates Art ; and Impiety above all things abominates Devotion . Tradition also that truckles under Forms , and Hypocrisy and Flattery are Time's Apostates : But Science and Experience are the confirmation of Eye-sight ; and Truth the Standard of Divine Speculation . By these we proportion the Measures of Vertue , which is found by him that treads the Tracks of Wisdom , and wades through the profound Depths of Patience : for as he that devotes himself to a solitary Life , lives a Life most congruous to Devotion ; so he that devotes himself to Piety , lives a Life analogous to Contemplation . For what signifies the Court , but to remonstrate the Prince his Magnificence ; and the Palace , but to heighten his Enjoyments ? On the other hand , where Humility is celebrated to Piety ; there Content dwells every-where in an humble Breast ; and Humility and Penitency , like Links concatinate , content themselves with the garb of a Cottage . Thus we may read the State of the World : but that which I always approved of as the best State , was to seek the Blessings of Content in every Condition . Then welcome Woods , Rocks , Rivers , Groves , Rivulets ; nay it 's possible the very Shades of a Forest , in some measure answer to the Comforts of Life ; and Life answers to the Ends of the great Creator . Consider therefore that the Soul 's great Diadem is Christ ; and Christ , by Wisdom and Sanctification every Christian knows , is God. And who but God created this stupendous Creation , and drest up this imbelish'd Fabrick of Heaven and Earth , when he made the Majesty of his Invisibility visible , and placed Man in this sublunar Orb , to conduct and manage his Fellow-creatures . But Man imprudently transgressing , in not answering the glorious Ends of his Divine Creation , in Obedience to the Commands of the Sovereign Decrees of God , the Almighty discharged him the Soveraignty of Government ; so exil'd him from the glorious Sun-shine of Paradise . Of whom if you please , let us have an account . But I wonder at one thing , to me it 's a Paradox . Ar. What 's that ? Th. You writ your Book in 58 , and spread the Net to 85. Ar. What if I do ; I lived in the Reign of five Kings , and in the Time of four great Worthies . Th. Was O. P. one ? Ar. I leave that Bone for you to pick. But this I assert , that great English Hero was exemplary in Piety , eminent in Policy , prudent in Conduct , magnanimous in Courage , indefatigable in Vigilancy , industriously laborious in Watchings , Heroick in Enterprize , constant in Resolution , successful in War ; one that never wanted a Presence of Mind in the greatest Difficulties ; all the World owns him for a great General , that influenced all Europe , gave Laws to all neighbouring Nations , and disciplined France with English Arms. Th. These are great Encomiums . Was the Lord R. one ? Ar. That great Man of Worth and Honour , was truly Vertuous ; the Patriot of his Country , and the Glory of the Court , beloved of the People , and a lover of Piety ; who left Legacies of Love to the surviving Natives , when he sealed his Death with noble English Blood. Th. Was Col. A. S. one ? Ar. That great Soul was too great for the World , whose Life in a manner was a continued Death , signified by those Trophies of War he carried about him . He died but to teach his Country-men the easy Methods of honourable Dying , to the astonishment of Mankind , and foreign Ambassadors . Th. Was Alderman C. one ? Ar. That brave and worthy Citizen , to his eternal Praise , sealed London's Magna Chart a with a Christian Exit , and a Voice from Heaven . Therefore put no more questions , for the Aenigma is explained , but begin where you left off , so let us conclude . Th. Then I 'le only desire a Description of Man. Arnoldus his Meditation . Ar. Adam as an Angel in the Shades of Paradise , typified his Creator : then it was that this mortal State seemed Immortal ; and Man , because a Signature of this admirable Creation , was made to live by that Life that made him ; for it was the Will of the Supreamest that made him , to shine a Ray of the Majesty upon him , and generate in him the glorious beauteous Ray of Himself . But this was done when the Divine Majesty made Man absolute Lord , and commissioned him Conduct over all the Creatures . So that Adam was now a Divine Substitute , because the Divinity had divinely inspired him , and stamp'd the Impress of his Royal Signet upon him , the lively Emblem and Character of Himself ; whereby to demonstrate in him a Sovereign Power over all the Families of Creatures that God had made , and by Wisdom bless'd in this stupendous Creation . So that you may read , Adam was made in the Likeness of his Maker ; but he begot in his own Likeness . This was once the blessed State of Adam , and a regenerate State ( to be born again in Spirit ) is the same with us now : for Primitive Purity can never be blotted out by National Impiety . Nor shall Age , nor Time , nor Death it self vacate the Lustre and Glory of Christianity : for as the Donation of Purity is the Royal Act of him that 's pure , and lives for ever ; so the Piety of Christianity shall out-live all Ages , to the utmost Limit and Period of Time. Where note , the Primitive Times have liv'd till now ; and that that begot Time in the Bosom of Eternity , is Christ in us the Hope of Glory . Why then do Christians violate their Faith ? Does it become us to enslave it by Lust ? A proud Faith is as great a Contradiction , as an humble Devil . The glorious Hope we have of Paradise , incites and invites Believers to the Duty of Repentance ; and Repentance leads on to a humble Submission , to cruciate our selves and this temporal State , that naturally resigns upon every Assault of Death ; for all complicated Elements melt into Obscurity . Shall the Clay rebel against the Potter that moulds it ? Shall Man resist his Maker that made him ? Shall the Vice of the Times vote against Heaven ? and Impiety provoke us to mutiny against the Deity ? Must we learn no Language but Oaths and Imprecations ? and denounce no Dialect but the Rhetorick of Hell ? Can no bounds be put to luxurious Ambition ? nor any Limit to the impudent Impostor ? who has not considered the Body sometimes diseased , and how Death stands ready to blot out the Character of Life ? so that if ill Symptoms but happen to invade us , the Grave immediately stands gaping to devour us . Nor can our Limbs any sooner be touched with the Cold and icie Finger of Death , but our vital Fires begin all to extinguish ; and the glorious shining Sparks of Life look languid and dim ; and so by degrees lose their sparkling Lustre . Then it is that the natural Artifice of Men and Means suddenly forsake us , and the secret Subtilties of our deceitful Hearts basely and cowardly renounce and desert us . And then it is , that our truckling Faith prostrates a false Heart on the cold and frozen Altar of Despair , which formerly was the common Factorage , and Receptable of impure Flames , where we used to offer up adulterated Sacrifices , with impious Adorations , as the Athenians did to unknown Gods , prophetically Prognosticating our merited Destruction . So that now in a Clod , or lump of Clay , the lustre of Life is silently sealed up , and secretly conveyed to the Sepulchres of Death ; and because translated from the beauteous Creation , is made to cease from a natural State , and embrace Corruption , and the putrid Grave in eternal silence ; where we shall never see Light nor Day any more , nor with Sorrow or Reluctancy look back upon the anguish and anxiety of those we formerly persecuted by unjust Sentences ; when as Judges we sat and perverted Judgment , yet would seem to appear as Angels of Light. But strip'd and stark naked the World now inspects us , and all those Graces that naturally adorn'd us , discover themselves but personal Deformities . So that Disease finds as little difficulty to attempt us , as Death to encounter and overcome us . For have not our sensual Guards all declin'd us , and the Arguments of Sense and Reason revolted from us ? Every Instrument and Organ has reclaim'd its natural Function , whereby we perceive our selves deserted by the active shining Motions of Life ; and doom'd to Death by the Law of Sin , we subscribe to the fatal Decrees of Mortality . O fatal flattering Impiety , where 's all those specious Pretences of Purity that link'd and intail'd our suborn'd Inclinations to the gaudy Temptations of luxurious Honour ? What if every Man had the Wealth of a Monarch , and as great as Alexander in Empire and Dominion ; and suppose his Domesticks as numerous as the World , yet Death would arrest him , and send him Summons to appear before Heaven's high Tribunal , where he must answer for himself , and not another for him ; whilst Conscience , as a bold and daring Accuser , will accuse him for the Deeds done here in the Body . So that as our Work was here upon Earth , such also will be our Reward in Heaven . But how sad will it be , when to behold the Portals of the New Ierusalem firmly bolted and barrocaded against us ; when to hear the dreadful and irrevocable Sentence of eternal Excommunication pass upon us , to be utterly secluded Society with the Saints , and denied Community with the blessed Angels , that perpetually triumph with Seraphick Hallelujahs , as the Seraphims and Cherubims with heavenly Ejaculations , whilst we are made to grope in Darkness unutterable , and to lament there the Impiety of Life ; and debar'd Repentance after Death , because to reject it when proffred unto us : for in the Grave there 's no Contrition ; nor after Judgment is there any Revocation . This is a sad and deplorable Sentence , beyond the reach of Sorrow to contemplate : for if but to consider the Janglings in Hell , and the murmuring Complaints of the Damned in Torments , that belch out Blasphemies to confirm their Impieties ; and by spiritual Pride prophane the Beauty of Holiness ; and would , if possible , corrupt the Creation , prostituting to Idols , and the Ides of Time ; and as much as in them lies , pervert and poison the Sacred Oracles of Judgment and Justice . But what Tongue can express the glorious Raptures , and beatifical Visions the Saints enjoy , with the Seraphick Harmony of the blessed Hierarchy ; whilst Penitents pass by the Gates of Hell , to the heavenly triumphant Joys of Eternity . O what Love so convincing and stupendously manifest , as a Saviour to die for unregenerate Sinners ! to affix himself to the Cross of Death , to fasten our Souls to Eternal Life ! to load his Body with the Burden of Sin , to purchase for Sinners the Seal of Redemption ! This is that great and sublime Elixir , that transmutes our Nature into Divinity , Time into Eternity , and our Souls into Himself ; from which supereminent Heavenly State , there 's no relaxation , but an intire Unity and Community with God , for ever and ever to all Eternity . For as Light is inseparable from it self , nor can Darkness co-mingle or incorporate with it ; such is the Soul that is truly sanctified and sprinkled with the Blood of this Miracle of Mercy , that never for the future can be separated from its Saviour : but as Sin hates the Light , because the Light discovers its Darkness ; so Light , because it 's the Standard of Truth , not only discovers but dissipates the Darkness . The Lamb of God is the Light of the World , that for ever shines , and for ever frees the penitent Soul from the Shades of Darkness . How great therefore must that Light be , that enlightneth the World , and every Man that cometh into the World ? Now the true State of Felicity is only attainable by Faith in Christ ; and Faith directs to the Portals of Humility ; Humility to Piety ; and Piety leads on to the Duties of Charity , by a religious resignation of our inglorious Will , to the Glory of his Will that bore our Burden of Sin on the Cross. Here let us sigh down , if possible , the Sins of the Age , as Christ by the virtue of his pure Divinity depress'd those Mountains of Sin in the World : then in obedience to this great Example , let us cruciate our selves , the better to enable us to triumph over Death : for to conquer Self , forceth the Devil to recoil ; and to render the Vanities of this World contemptible , is to lead Hell and Captivity captive ; which none but Christ can do , and has done : yet ought we to imitate our Leader , as true Volunteers of the Cross , if we hope to imbrace the Royal Sanctions of him that bore his Cross in a bloody Shower , for the Redemption of Mankind . This I recommend to the Christian Reader that follows the Lamb the Captain of our Salvation . Th. By this most excellent Description of Man , he labours , I perceive , under great Anxiety , till Christ affix him by his Sovereign Ray of Light , whereby to illuminate and sublime his immortal Soul into the everlasting Arms of himself , the glorious Being of his all-glorious Father , where Time shall be no more : for Time is but the Child of Eternity , as is Generation the Child of Time. Generation therefore devolves in Time , and Time results in the Arms of Eternity . But Eternity is the Beam of the Majesty of God , whose Divine Centre is Love essential ; and Love is an Attribute so divinely connected to the infinite Wisdom and Goodness of him that never had beginning , by whom all things were begot in Time. whereby he made his Invisibility visible , which he eminently did when he manifested his glorious Inside , by the Excellency and Beauty of the external Outside of this stupendous and most admirable Creation . Ar. You have sum'd it up right , and said nothing but Truth ; and Truth is the Alpha and Omega ; the Beginning of all Beings , and the End of all Times ; the infinite Invisibility made visible ; the immaculate Humanity clothed with Divinity ; the Glory , Beauty and Wisdom of the Father , the beatisical Vision , the Light of the World that now is , ever was , and for ever and ever will remain so to be , when Death and Time shall be no more . And now give me leave to recommend unto you ( most worthy your observation ) these general Rules for Fish and Fishing , with Directions also for Baits and Seasons . Th. Be you my Tutor , and I 'le be your Pupil . The SALMON . Ar. As the Salmon is a Monarch and King in the Freshes , so he is the ultimate Result of the Angler's Conquest . This Royal Game ( all the Summer-time ) has his Residence in the rapid and forcible Streams in Rivers ; but the Sea is his Sanctuary most Months in the Winter : So that a Man may rationally conclude , without a Parenthesis , that he is always to be found , though not always in Season . Besides , the Salmon is incident , as other Fish are , to various Accidents ; more especially if we consider the female Fish , who in the Spring ( as other Females do ) drops her Eggs ( but some call it Spawn ) which makes her infirm : and if it so happen that she lags behind her natural Mate in the fall of the Leaf , she is then prohibited the benefit of Salt-water to bathe her Fins , and carry off her slimy Impurities , which is the natural Cause of her kipperish Infirmity , that alters her delicate Proportion of Body , and blots out the beautiful Vermilian Stain and sanguin Tincture of Blood , which vividly and transparently shines through her rubified Gills ; so that now she begins to look languid and pale , her Fins they fag , and her Scales by degrees lose their natural shining Brightness ; as also her regular and well-compos'd Fabrick of Body , looks thin , lean , and discoloured : and her Head that grows big , and disproportionable , as if distemper'd and invaded with the Rickets ; over whose Chaps hangs a callous Substance , not much unlike to a Falcon's Beak ; which plainly denotes her out of Season , and as plainly as any thing demonstrates her Kippar . Now I come to nominate some eminent Rivers in England , that accommodate the Angler with the Race of Salmon . First therefore I prefer the River Trent , because of her rapid and Oriental Streams ; that never sully themselves , till arriving near to the Shores of Gainsborough , where Trent oft washeth her Banks with the Eagre , so glides immediately into the Arms of Humber . Next unto Trent , we present you with the translucid glittering Streams of Severn , that not far from Bristol mingle themselves with the Ocean . Nor shall we omit those torpid and melancholy Streams of Owse , that gulph themselves into Trent-fall . But of all Rivers that glide through the cultivated Fields in England , the bountiful , beautiful , and most illustrious Thames has the Soveraignty of the rest ; because her Streams influence not England only , but all the Banks and Shores in Europe ; and is without Precedent , because of the excellency and delicacy of her Fish , more especially below Bridg ; where the Merchants turn Anglers , and throw their Lines as far as both Indies , Peru , the Ganges , Mozembique , Barbary , Smirna , Alexandria , Aleppo , Scandaroon , and all the wealthy Ports in the Universe . These are the Fish that feast the Nation ; otherwise England would be unlike it self , if unhappily wanting such provident Anglers . But Scotland has already received a Character of most of her eminent Rivers and Rivulets , that wash and moisten her sandy Shores ; nor have I nominated more than four Metropolitan Rivers in England , that bathe her fertil and florid Banks ; because having a mind to step into Wales , or the Suburbs of it , to discover there a singular Curiosity , which probably may puzzle the Opinion of Artists and others . Now one of these Rivers in called Wye , but the other is known by the name of Vsk : both which Rivers , as I am told , incorporate themselves on the Southside of Monmouth . But the reason why I mention these two eminent Rivers , is only in regard of their various entertainments , by reason the Salmon there are always in Season ; for the one supplies the Defects of the other . As thus for example ; If when to consider Wye flourisheth with Salmon , Vsk as if no River , is rarely discours'd of . On the contrary ; when as Vsk sends her Supplies to the bordering Inhabitants , then is Wye as little as any thing thought of . By this Contrariety and Diversity of Nature , the Natives may conclude that Winter and Summer give not only the Season to Salmon , but rather that they have Laws from the Streams they glide in ; or Wales differs from all the World. The next thing that falls under the Anglers Consideration , is the Bait or Charm for the Royal Race of Salmon ; which I reduce under the Classis of two generals , viz. the Fly for Frolick , to flourish and sport on the surface of the Streams ; and the Ground-bait for Diversion , when designing to drag at the bottom . But what if I direct you a central way , that in my Opinion upon approved Practice will intice him ashore in Mid-water . Now if the Angler design that for his exercise , ( in such case ) let him make provision of fair and large Minews , small Gudgeons , or a diminutive Dace , ( with the artificial use of the Swivel to flourish his Bait ) the Brightness or Gloominess of the Day considered : But if the Ground-bait be intended , which always succeeds best in discoloured Waters ; then in such case , prepare for him a well-scoured Lob-worm , or knotted Dew-worm , drag'd forth of the Forest , or any other sterril or barren Soil , which as soon as any thing ( with dextrous management ) will compel him ashore though it cost him his Life . I write from Experience , for I am not unacquainted with the multiform variety of terrene Animals ; as you may read more at large in my following Appendix : more especially of those Worms , that are taken and drag'd forth out of a hard and skirrous Earth , which ought to be well depurated ( or scoured ) two or three days in the finest , cleanest , and sweetest Moss that fastens it self to the root of the Ash-tree ; sprinkling it first with new and sweet Ale ; afterwards remember to squeeze it forth , so operate like an Artist : but that which is better , and more concordant to my approbation , is fleeted Cream , from the benevolence of the Dairy ; which to admiration makes your Worm become viscous and tough ; and that which yet is more to be admired , they also become bright , and almost transparent : for that end I counsel and advise the Angler , when designing to approach the Deeps for Diversion , that he take some always with him to heighten his Exercise , or influence and inamour his Game . It is not so difficult to put some in a Box made of Wood called Lignum Vitae , perforated with Holes , besmearing or anointing it over first with the Chymical Oil of Bays , Sulphur , Barbadoes Tar , Ivy , Cornu-Cervi ; or indeed almost any other Oil that has but a strong and foetid Empyruma , will serve well enough , where the Oil of Oesprey is generally wanting . With these requisite Circumstantials we approach the Deeps , and the strongest Descents and Falls in the stiffest Streams ; the like we do in Eddies , and turns in back-Waters ; for the Salmon you must know loves a solitary Shade . Arm well be sure , and fish as fine as you can , ( Isaac Owldam used to fish with but three Hairs at Hook ) and forget not the Swivel , as above precautioned ; and the running Line be sure you remember . Stand close I advise you , and keep your distance , especially when approaching the rapid Fords , because there , for the most part , the Streams run clear , and you with design come on purpose to destroy him ; as it 's probable you may , provided your Art , Skill and Ingenuity do but serve to manage so eminent an Encounter . Now give me leave but to step from the Water-side to numerate and describe the various Brood of Salmon ; so to distinguish them according to Mode , or as some will have it , the Custom of the Country . Where note , in the South they call him Samlet ; but if you step to the West , he is better known there by the name of Skeggar ; when in the East they avow him Penk ; but to the Northward , Brood and Locksper , so from thence to a Tecon ; then to a Salmon . Now to recreate with the Fly , ( meaning the Artificial ) that 's another sort of Exercise for the Angler's Diversion ; which ought to be considered , and diversly consulted , in regard of so great variety of Form , Lustre , Beauty and Proportion . For that end let me advise you , that the ground of your Fly be for the most part obscure , of a gloomy , dark and dusky Complexion ; fashioned with Tofts of Bears-Hair , blackish or brownish discolour'd Wool , interwoven sometimes with Peacocks Feathers , at otherwhiles lap'd about with Grey , Red , Yellow , Green , or Blewish Silk , simple Colours , or Colours sometimes intermingled . For instance , Black and Yellow represent the Wasp or Hornet ; and a promiscuous Brown the flesh Fly ; so of the rest . For that end consult the Humour of the Fish , who to humour your Exercise puts himself out of Humour , chiefly and principally when he parts with his Life . These requisite Precautions ought to be the study of every studious and ingenious Angler , together with the knowledg of Time and Season , when to resort to the River for Recreation . The next thing necessary is the shape of your Rod , which ought in all respects to represent the Rush in its growth ; for that end we call it Rush-grown : and be sure it be streight and plient . Your Line also that must be accurate and exactly taper'd ; your Hook well compassed , well pointed , and well barbed : and be mindful that your Shank exceed not in length ; I mean not so long as when you drag with the Ground-Bait . Nor is it proper for the Artist to court a Stream , except he be always provided of his dubbing Bag , wherein are contained all sorts of Thrums , Threads , Silks , Moccado-Ends , Silver and Gold Twist ; which are of excellent use to adorn your Fly , and in a great measure quicken the sight of your Game ; provided the Day be promiscuous and dark , occasioned by smooty and discoloured Clouds . Now should I enumerate the multiform variety of Animals , the various Colours and Proportion of Infects , with the diversity of Flies , it would but redouble my Labour and Trouble ; since already I have discoursed them in another place ; where the Artist also , if he be ingenious , may consult and examine the Methods of Experiments , so make himself Master of this solitary Mystery : otherwise let him remain silent among Proficients , and a profest Ignoramus among Practitioners . And among the variety of your Fly-adventurers , remember the Hackle , or the Fly substitute , form'd without Wings , and drest up with the Feather of a Capon , Pheasant , Partridg , Moccaw , Phlimingo , Paraketa , or the like , and the Body nothing differing in shape from the Fly , save only in ruffness , and indigency of Wings . Another necessary Observation , is the Wing of your Fly , which ought to proceed from the Teal , Heron ; Malard , or Faulcon . The Pinion and Wing thereof ought to lie close , and so snug as to carry the Point exactly downward . But the last thing material is , the moderate Stroak ; which always proves Mortal , and best succeeds if used without Violence : the Line also , keep that streight as occasion requires , so that nothing be remiss , nor any thing wanting ; and the necessity of the Wheel be sure you remember . The Salmon loves those rapid Rivers , where The craggy Rocks above the Streams appear . In deepest Waters , and in strongest Streams He lives ; yet like a Martyr sometimes dies in flames . The TROVT . I have already told you that the Salmon is King in the Freshes : And now I must tell you that the Princely Trout has his residence and principality in the same fluctuating Element , partaking very much of the Nature of Salmon , admiring stiff and rapid Streams in the Vernon Ingress ; but he accosts the solitary Deeps most Months in the Winter . In the Spring , you shall observe this active Animal scud to the Fords , where he flutters his Fins at every silly Fly ; for that 's his Rendezvouz , and there you 'l find him , picking and gliding against Stones in the Bottom , to scour off , if possible , the slimy Substance and Scurf from his sickly Sides ; frequently occasioned through want of Motion . So that when the Sun vegetates and invigorates the Creation , then is he invigorated with Motion and Activity , which argues a very great and unpardonable Absurdity in the ignorant and incredulous Angler , to fancy that Peregrination debilitates and weakens him ; when apparently it adds an additional Strength ▪ not well considering they were only told so ; or peradventure they had read it in some printed Book , concluding from thence an Infallibility in the Press . But as I intend not to burden you with Circumlocutions , for brevity sake , I shall range the Trout under the consideration of the first Classis of Fish. For that end , I must signalize his Vivacity and Vigour , his Activity and Courage , how naturally they spring from the Nature of this Fish , till Age or Accident indispose and deprive him , not only of Activity , but of natural Ability ; who struggles with himself to out-do Motion , and out-live , if possible , the Law of his Life . So that to prohibite him Travel , you totally destroy him ; since he is a Fish that can't live under Confinement . And thus it happens to the Race of Salmon , for Nature's Laws are alike to both . In the Summer's Solstice he accosts the Fords , making inspection and inquisition after the variety of Emmits and Insects , hovering his Fins in every murmuring purling Stream in Rivers and Rivulets , which not only puts a Spur to the Angler's Exercise , but his Expectation also : and this , if any thing ▪ is the Angler's Elizium ; which I shall not insist upon here , because having inlarged upon it sufficiently already . In this place I shall only treat of the Ground-bait ; which most commonly is a knotted or budled Dew-worm ; much of the Nature and Kind of the former , but not usually so large as that we procure for the Salmon . Now as every Angler concludes the Trout a delicate Fish for Diversion , so others , as Artists , consult him a delicious Entertainment . But the Trout to entertain himself , as eagerly sucks in a well-scour'd Red-worm , as the wide-mouth'd Humber swallows up a full Spring-Tide . For that end , grudg him not what he loves , and give him time to digest it . Your Business is only to stand Sentinel , and to keep a vigilant Eye and a diligent Hand over him ; for Patience is not only an Exercise but an Excellency in Anglers , provided they fall not asleep at their Exercise ; especially when Angling or Troling with the Ground-bait , which upon probate proves most profitable after gluts of Rain and discoloured Waters . Nor is this Ground-bait otherwise than a Worm , variously discours'd by me at several Times , and in sundry Places . For that end ( to avoid repetitions ) where the Worm fails of Success , make trial of the Minew , in Sharps or Scours , by dragging at the bottom , or in mid-water ; which if dextrously performed ( with the Swivel ) by the Hand of an Artist , he shall seldom or rarely fail of Success . But for the Fly-fishing , if that be the Artist's Intention ; let me soberly advise him to solicite moderate Winds , rather than intemperate and violent Gusts . Rally my Reasons , and sum them up ; you will find them more copious in my former Conference , where at large I discourse and decipher both the Shape , Colour , and the Proportion of Flies ; for I hate Tautologies , because hateful in themselves ; and there 's nothing more troublesom to an ingenious Artist , than to be glutted by telling a Story twice . The Trout therefore judicially considered , his Mouth is not by much so large as the Salmon's ; nor requires he so copious nor so large a Hook , nor need his Tackle be so robust and strong . But for the Rod and Line , take care , that they in all respects be exactly tapered . And to hit the Mark as near as may be , let care be taken that the Line in every part be equally stretch'd , and the Steel of your Hook of an even Temper ; nor matters it how light you are arm'd at the Hook ; so that on the Surface , when you flourish your Fly , be sure that you gain the Head of the Stream ; and if possible , the Wind , to facilitate your Cast. But if the Ground-bait be your Exercise , then let the length of your Line seldom or rarely exceed the Rule of your Rod : whilst the Fly-Diversion grants a larger Charter , Distance and Dimension also come under the consideration of every Artist that is mindful to measure exact Proportion , by concealing himself from the Streams he sports in . So that if at any time the Fly fails of success , as frequently it has happened to my self and others , let the Angler then have recouse to the Ashtree-Grub , the Palmer-worm , Caterpillar , green or gray Drak , the depinged Grasshopper ; or that truculent Insect , the green Munket of the Owlder-tree . But if none of these Baits presented , succeed to profit ; and the Water as we apprehend to remain discoloured ; let him then assault the Trout at the Bottom , with that mortal Allurement which I call the Gild-tale : for that of all Worms allures him ashore . The generous Trout to make the Angler Sport , In deep and rapid Streams will oft resort . Where if you flourish but a Fly , from thence You hail a Captive , but of Fish the Prince . The PIKE . The Pike is a voracious ravenous Fish , that frequents the Waters , and lives always upon Spoil : for Moss-Trooper like , he murders all he meets with . And as it is impossible to find him without an Appetite , so is it as improbable to proffer him any thing that he 'l refuse . One would think him a Graduate by his various Appellations ; as that of Jack , Pickerel , Pike , and Lucit ; which makes him look big and swell with Titles , as Westminster-hall look'd blough with Dunbar Trophies . Now the Angler that consults this formidable Desperado , must search him in the Spring by examining the Ditches , narrow Grips & Gullies , where probably he may find him poaching after Mice ; and in the Avenues in Marishes hunting after Frogs , with which he trucks his Life for a Trifle . But the yellow Frog , of all Frogs , brings him to Hand , for that 's his dainty and select Diet , wherein Nature has placed such magical Charms , that all his Powers can never resist them , if fastned on the Hook with that exactness , that his Life may shine , and the Bait seem undeprived of natural Motion . Which if dextrously performed , the Angler will be convinced , that a Ledger of all Baits is the most truculent destructive Morsel in the World. But March expiring , and April on the Ascendent , his Eye-sight clears up , and his Appetite too , for a brighter Bait ; and then a small Roach , or a Bream will down ; so will a Bleak , and a small young Dace , or for Variety the Head of an Eel . But if a Junior Perch be strip'd of his Fins , or a fresh plump Gudgeon neatly link'd to the arming be but laid before him , he shall never refuse it , when so greedy of a Worm that he 'l hazard his Life for it . But then I prescribe it no approved Bait , rather a fortunate Accident in my successful Adventures . But his Winter-Quarters are the sullen Deeps , where he burdens himself with Clouds of Water , as aged People do that heap on Apparel ; when in the Spring he is all Gaity , and like the Prodigal , scorns that his Life should out-live his Patrimony . But the Summer approaching , we then consider him more circumspect , more cunning , more cautious , and under better Guards ; for then in a Deep you may search him , and probably find him ; but then you must have it at the Tail of a Ford : when in Autumn you shall find him lap himself in Candocks , at other times in Bullrushes ; and where-ever the Fry is , there is he , if not in the midst , yet he 's never far from them . I have known this Fish deluded with a Trout ; a Trout did , I say ? there 's no Fish that swims in the Freshes is such an alluring Temptation ; nor can the Pike any more resist this Charm , than he can resist his natural Disposition after Diet. The consequence proves true upon the Angler's Examination ; for the Pike has strong Inclinations after any thing that swims ; who as seldom as any Fish wants an Appetite , and by his good Will would always be eating . After this manner we discourse the Pike ; who dwells almost every where , except in the Ocean , or in brackish Waters ; but in the Lough , you shall find him there o're-grown , sometimes to an amazing bigness ; when in the River , and translucid Streams in Rivulets , his Taste is from thence transchanged to a more excellent Sweetness , and upon proof will be found much more nutricious . But his way of germinating is the same with the Salmon , to answer the Ends of Procreation , as for the most part all barrel'd Fish do , who rises early in the Infancy of the Year , and admires all Changes that the Season presents . The Pike or Lucit , is a Mercenary ; Or Anglers seem among themselves to vary . He loves no Streams , but hugs the silent Deeps : And eats all Hours , and yet no House he keeps . The CARP . The Carp is a Fish complicated of a moross Mixture , and a torpid Motion , one that loves to live in melancholy Calms , rather than to ramble in the rapid Rivers and translucid Streams . Ponds and Pools are generally his Palaces , where he loves good Eating , but seldom or rarely travels far to fetch it : who as seldom as any Fish exceeds the compass of his Colony , nor ever attains to that maturity of largeness , where there 's rapid Rivers , and swift gliding Streams , as he does in the Lake or solitary Lough . The Antients were of Opinion , and so am I , that Travel extenuates and lessens Growth ; and that in the Rivers and spacious Rivulets , every Master Fish pleads a right of Possession ; whereby Acts of Hostility are hourly commenced , with the loss of Life to the weaker sort ; at least of his Habitation , when a stronger than himself claims a right of Possession : for when to consider the antipathy in Fish , as the secret animosity that lurks under the Flesh , it 's no wonder that the great Ones eat up the little Ones . And this our daily Experience , as a Monitor , discovers unto us , the Antipathy and Animosity Fish have in the Ocean ; for Antipathy will be Antipathy as certainly as Sympathy is Sympathy , notwithstanding the Nature of Climat , Constitution , or Element . Since therefore we have signified the Residence of the Carp , it 's but requisite to proceed to tell you what he loves ; and that is soon done , if you cast but your Eye on the blooming Hauthorn ; for then your Carp-angling begins to commence , which terminates in August , as the Vulgar would have it : but this Rule admits of too many Exceptions ; for all the Summer-season , more especially in a dropping and moist Air , he bites without dispute , if he likes his Commons , and you but cautious enough to conceal your self , who as rarely as any Fish quarrels with the fineness or coarseness of your Tackle ; which deserves a serious Consideration , in as much as Neatness and Fineness are requisite and necessary accomplishments in any thing of Art , more especially that of Angling : and the Bait to surprize him is less difficult than any thing , because by every Angler so generally understood ; which will shorten my Discourse , and invite me to a Conclusion . But before I close , let me tell you what he loves ; and that 's the Unctuosity of the purplish Dew-worm , provided you depurate him from all Impurities , to remonstrate his Beauty and Lustre of Life . Examine him but with this Bait to free me from Suspicion , and remove the Censure of clamorous Anglers , that oft-times repine at their own Undertakings ; but that I cannot help , they may use the Lob-worm if they please , which if they rightly order , will ( I 'le assure them ) turn to good Account , more especially if perfumed with the Oil of Annis . But my Observation leads me to another Curiosity , and that is Paste . But of Pastes ( let me tell you ) there are as many sorts among Anglers , as there are Saints-days in the Pope's Kalendar : but this hinders not but that Pastes may be effectual , more especially when commix'd and compounded with fine Bean-flower , English-Honey , and poudred Sugar , amalgamized or mingled with the Yolk of an Egg ; and if the Fat of an Heron be supperadded to it , it makes it not the worse ; but the Marrow of a Heron makes it much more the better . Besides , sometimes he loves a taste of the Dairy-Maid ; as at other times he affects the smell of the Shambles , because a great admirer of clotted Blood ; or almost any thing when he is in Humour . Now as Operation in Artifice is the Corona of Art , so Demonstration in Science is the ultimate End of Experience . I forfeit neither my Reason nor Opinion in this Assertion : nor do I in my Arguments undermine those Artists that practically and experimentally understand the right use of the Worm ; though some with Honey and other Dulcids have sweetly allured him , and some others with Tar ( supposing him a Tarpolin ) have summoned him ashore ; yet I declare upon practice , that if the Worm do not pleasure him , the Angler may mingle Despairs with his Sports . But then let him consider the Complement of Licorish , or the homogeniety of the Oil of Annis , Cummin , or Assafetida to furnish it with a Hogoe , which in my Opinion surpasseth the camerial Oil of Oespres : yet not that I altogether doubt the truth of so famous a Secret , celebrated by the Antients , but rather the rarity of so admirable a Discovery ; such another some fancy is that of the Phenix . The Carp's no Courtier , nor a Country Guest ; Yet answers both , all after as he 's drest . He loves the silent Deeps , in Ponds and Pools ; A Dish for States-men , or a Mess for Fools . The PERCH . The Perch is a well-disciplined martial Fish , of much more Mettle , Gallantry and Courage than the Carp ; though not almost , but altogether of as slow a Motion ; and though as free from the taint of Controversy , as the Wax is free to submit to the Impression of the Seal , yet he never enters the List but he always arms himself . It 's true , he 's a Volunteer that lives above fear ; nor dreads he that any thing of Art can invade him : nay though he see himself surrounded with Danger and Difficulties , and immured with Rocks and ruinous Decays ; yet he will shew himself as prodigal of his Stock of Life , as any Fish living that floats in Water . It is true , I must confess , that he is a great admirer of smooth Rivers , but the rapid Streams in Rivulets he seldom or never frequents , notwithstanding him so bold and daring a Fish ; Nor is he of any great Activity in the solitary Lough ; and would to his liking use as little Exercise in the River , did not the Streams sometimes invade him , which makes him more active than otherwise he would be , because of Self-preservation . Which still strengthens my Opinion of preferring the River-Fish in excellency to exceed those in the Pond : though peradventure Travel mitigates Growth , ( as we formerly discours'd ) yet it most generously compensates the Gusto ; for every Fish that comes cautiously by his Commons , is by so much the more confirm'd delicious , and if I mistake not as nutricious also . Now would not any Man think those Conceptions very sordid , to prefer the Goose to the Gossander ; and vie the Hog with the Hind ? It 's true , some hug and imbrace the Vision of remote Novelties , because to fancy that Distance and Difficulty make things rare ; so it may well enough , for it makes them dear . And what would it signify to a rural Palat , was that Palat by foreign Curiosities daily impos'd upon ? Besides , it 's Treason in the abstract , against the Law of Bounty , for any Man to imagine Partiality in Nature , since every thing is destinated by an immutable Decree , to answer the primary Ends ordained . The great Work-master needs no contribution from the Mine to enable him to infuse Virtue into the Creation ; nor needs he to borrow any thing from the Creature , since the Creature is only the marginal Note of the Universe ; the Creation it self being the stupendous Volume . But as every thing naturally adheres to its own Like , and Semblances partake of their own Properties , Stars then were not made meerly to gaze at , nor Elements but as Vortrices for corporeal Reception ; otherwise how could Birds divide their ambient Air , or Fish force a Passage through the fluctuating Ocean , where sometimes the treacherous Net betrays them ? yet so resolv'd are they with contempt to Cruelty , that they scorn to petition a Reprieve for Life , but rather submit themselves to be tortur'd to Death , by the tormenting Hand of the scarifying Cook , that dispenseth with Art to elevate the Appetite , if when only to make it pleasant to a generous Acceptation . But to look for the Perch , you need not go far to seek him that is to be found almost any where , if you please but to step to the Suburbs of the Streams of Trent , or the solitary Deeps near the rapid Streams in most Rivers and Rivulets in the Circle of England ; if examined at the Bottom , for you may search and find him under hollow Banks , Eddies , Pools , Miln-Pits , Turns of Streams , at the Tales of Sluces , Flood-gates , and back-Waters , near to the Stumps of Trees , Wier-heads , Stanks , Candocks and Bull-rushes ; but if there be any ruinous Decays , there you will certainly find him that is to be found : Indeed one would think him a piece of an Antiquary , because he loves to be rifling among Ruins . Now presupposing you have found him , what is next to be done ? that ought to be considered , in regard it 's the Angler's Care and Study to accommodate him like an Artist , with what he loves . But you will ask me what that is ? And I readily answer , and tell you , not with coarse Tackle , nor a slovenly Bait : for though the Carp is not squeemish , nor the Perch shame-faced , yet he hates Rudeness , coarse Tackle , and slovenly Commons ; greatly admiring Dew-worms if well depurated , Cankers , Caterpillars , Cod-worms , Grubs , Brandlins , Minews , and the junior Fry of small Fish ; these Novelties affect him to a change of Element , who lays down his Life for what he loves . But the Charm of all Baits that invites him ashore ( as Fancy is seldom unfurnished with Invention ) is that truculent Mortal the Gild-tail ; which sooner than any thing sends him a Summons of Death ; for which at any time he shall give you his Life , and that is as much as the World has to part with , nor hath he any more than himself to give . Now let the Angler that would fish for Perch , The Turns in Rivers , and back-Waters search . In deepest Lakes the largest Perch you 'l find : And where the Perch , is Kind will answer Kind . BREAM . The Bream , though we grant him a flegmatick Fish , and a Fish as naturally as any Fish addicted to Ease and Idleness , yet he enjoys himself as much in limpid Streams as other Fish do that seek Sanctuary in solitary Lakes . And as he hates rambling far from Home , so he abhors Correspondency with those that do ; contenting himself with torpid Streams , and hugs his Fancy in solitary Deeps . Trent I have observed for the Race of Bream , may challenge all England , nay all Europe for ought I know , more especially near those Streams that wet the Ports of Gainsborough ; where sometimes he washeth his Fins with the Eagre , and arrives there to that amazing bigness , that I blush to report it , lest the Reader should suspect me . Indeed the Bream is an excellent Companion , if you can but get him into humour to bite ; which may easily be done , if you do but treat him with the compost of Paste ; for that will insinuate him into the Pie , where his Bones will absorp , and his Flesh amalgamize with fresh sweet Butter ; which being dissolved , will entertain you with a nutricious Liquor , that for phlegmatick Humours is both Physick and Diet. I never knew any Angler ( except it was one ) that singly devoted himself a whole day's Diversion , in order to court and entertain this Fish ; nor do I remember him inroll'd in the Angler's Catalogue , among the first Classis of dignified Fish. For that end therefore , as I intend brevity in his Description , so give me leave to shew you the readiest way how to surprize and take him . But then you must consider him no constant Companion for all Constitution of Rivers and Rivulets , though our Southern Streams frequently enjoy him , except otherwise they prove too rapid and forcible ; for if so , then he takes up his Residence in calmer Streams , that enamour him with Bull-rushes , at other whiles with Candocks : whose Recreation is little more than the limits of his Confinement ; from whence he seldom extravagants himself , until compell'd from thence by the Mediums of Art , as at other times by Inundation , or Deluges of Water , that send him sometimes a Goal-Delivery . But the variety of Baits to allure this Fish being so numerous and various , I shall confine my self only to a few ; which upon examination will be found effectual . Compound therefore a Paste as formerly described , of Honey , intermingled with a little Brandy , Bean-flower , and the Yolk of an Egg ; which you may , if you please , tinge with Gambogium , Vermilion , &c. This Bait sometimes , as soon as any thing , entices him ashore . But in regard he is a Fish inconstant as to Diet , some therefore feed him with Gentles , and not without good Success ▪ some others with Grubs , and othersome with Caterpillars ; but better is that of Cod-worms : and sometimes any thing will do , if he be in Humour . But then you are to consider he loves early rising , and is ready for Breakfast by break of Day : so that if his Commons affect him , and you so fortunately happy to meet with a cloudy gloomy Morning , you may engage him for ought I know , to keep you Company till the solitudes of Night ; which a well-scoured red Worm will sometimes do , and so will Cheese , for he loves the Dairy : but all the World cannot make him Fly-proof ; yet a Brandlin makes his Teeth water . But the Gild-tail , as above , is such an invincible Charm , that all his Powers cannot withstand it ; but he will come ashore in despight of Death . Now if the Angler fish in Thames for Bream , Or famous Trent ; ne're let him search a Stream : Deeps most allure him , so do Eddies too ; For near to Banks and Stanks he lies purdue . TENCH . The Tench of all the Families of Fish is both Physick and Physician ; of a balsamick , nutricious and medicinal Nature , that fortunately Cures when others Kill ; and distributes more Good than Hurt in his Colony . It 's true , he is Sought for by every Angler , though obtained by few ; and the diseased Fish that finds him , finds a Cure , and that 's a reward answerable to Diligence . Now as every Stream courts this physical Fish , yet but few Rivers in the Nation enjoy him , who for the most part inhabits the Pool ; yet are not the Rivers denied him for a publick Good. I cannot deny that he loves deep Waters , more especially those that are of a torpid and slow Motion ; such upon examination he greatly admires : nor shall any Man over-rule him , nor at any time perswade him to be out of conceit with Flags and Bull-rushes . I have already told you that he is Medicine and Physician ; and now let me tell you he 's a delicious Morsel . That Angler that knows any thing of Angling , must of necessity know that the Tench of all Fish is no Fish of Prey , and one that lives upon as little Food as any Fish that wags a Fin ; but then he must have it choice and delicate , wholsom and juicy ; and truly he well deserves it , since so little serves his turn . Search well therefore in the solitary Deeps , and there as soon as in any Place you 'l find him , as if by Nature destinated to a cynical Life , which the Ignorant impute to a want of Exercise ; not well considering it 's no part of his Business to ramble in the Rivers , to expose himself to Ruin : which makes me fancy that but a few junior Piscatorians have thorowly consulted this Aesculapian , who beyond dispute is of a Balsamick Nature ; whose slimy Sides administer Relief , if when but to glance upon his fellow-Creature . So that I think it worthy my Management and Undertaking to draw forth some Directions how the Angler may surprize him with our innocent Artillery of Hook and Line ; which will be enough , as I conceive , to convince him , if in Season he please but to make a trial . In the South of England , where the Fields are fertil ( so in the North , though more uncultivated ) this piece of Curiosity is frequently discours'd among Anglers , meaning such as out of a Fancy , or foreign Curiosity , have undertaken to feed him with Tar and Rye-bread , supposing him a Tarpollin ; and not without success , whilst some others have diverted him with various Pasts , using 'em as an Argument to make him Pie-proof . Then again some have fed him with English Honey , the Yolks of Eggs , and the Oil of Annis , commassated and mingled with fine Bean-flower ; this Bait is better approved of than rudely to choak him with toasted Cheese . I own I must confess there be many ways to feed him , though to my certain knowledg ( except in the Pond ) there are but few places to find him in . He therefore that solicites a sight of this Physical Fish , and impatiently longs to hear him rumble in the Panier , let him follow my Advice , with well-scoured Dew-worms , kept very sweet in cleanly Moss ; and if that prove ineffectual to answer his Design , then let him provoke him with the Flag or Dock-worm , which will certainly answer the Angler's Intention ; otherwise let him blame both me and my Directions . The Tench best loves those torpid Waters , where The Deeps are shaded well with Reeds ; and there The wounded Fish that could not long endure The Smart and Pain , finds him , so finds a Cure. BARBLE . The Barble , though experienced a resolute Fish , yet is he as shame-faced as any of his Fellows : And as he hates to quarrel , so he abhors an Affront ; but reserves his Strength , Activity and Agility , till the Rod or the Net prove his Examinant ; whose Belly or Spawn may be eaten as Diet , but then it proves in operation but churlish Physick ; not that I assert it my Opinion only , let Experience upon Examination better instruct you . Now when the Angler comes to the Water-side , and brings what he loves , he courts a Familiarity , though his Credit of late has been much impair'd in the Cook-room : which possibly may proceed from the ignorant Order of such as study rather to gratify their voracious Appetites , than the curious Methods of the Art of Angling . However , Isaac Walton has provided a Cook , that in his Opinion can dress him well enough , whose Arguments beyond dispute , had indubitably miscarried , had not his Wife had a Finger in the Pie. Thus he , and some others , dress Fish before they catch them ; but I approve it requisite to catch them first , and then at your leisure dress them afterwards . The Barble , so named from his Barbs or Wattles , most passionately admires the depth of the River , at the tale of a Stream : where you shall usually find him sucking of Soil , and lying purdue for Worms and Insects , or any thing else that is sweet and edible . And by how much the stronger you observe the Stream , by so much the more strength has the Fish that inhabits therein . And if there be Rubbish , or any sort of Lumber , for his part he likes it never the worse ; and if ruinous Decays , or great Stones in the Bottom , so much the better for his Security , whose Provision is rarely any thing else , save only what Nature daily provides him . Nor is he numbred among the Fish of Prey ; nor is he a Glutton , yet he knows how to eat ; nor is he over-curious to court for Varieties , though some feed him with Paste , and their Liberality he retaliates ; and some proffer him Cheese to close up the Orifice of his Stomach , them he also gratifies : and some give him Worms well depurated and scoured , for which Modicum he contributes his thanks : but he that would feed him to death with a Dainty , must bring him a dish of Salmon spawn . The Barble courts the rapid Torrents more Than solid Deeps : strong Streams remote from shore Oblige him most ; because the strongest Streams Bring him supplies , the Rod brings only flames . CHEVEN . The Chub or Cheven is a Fish of a supine Nature , yet of a robust and rural Disposition , had he but a Heart to manage his Strength ; who upon examination is by every one understood better for Diversion by half than Diet : a coarse feeder , and himself as coarse to be fed on ; yet of such a voracious Appetite , that he scorns to see any thing that he cannot eat , if another Fish can ; but my Modesty constrains me to forbear mentioning it . Now the Spring approaching , every thing inamours him , for then he haunts the Fords for fashion . 'T is true he 's an early riser , that will sport the Angler at break of Day , provided he furnish him with Codworms , Cankers , Caterpillars , Cow-dung-Grubs , Gentles , Pastes tinctured with Cambogium , &c. But then you must cautiously obscure your self , and appear like an Angler least in sight . Yet still there 's another way much better to surprize him , that is by dibling on the surface of the Water , if circumspectly you conceal your self behind a Bush , or the more private and solitary shade of Trees . But your Engine for this encounter , is a Natural Fly , either the Flesh Fly , the Bank Fly , the Gray or the Green Drake ; but the Green Munkit of the Owlder-Tree excels all the rest , as the Sun in Excellency outlustres the Stars . Moreover you shall find him gaping after Grass-hoppers , or any other Insect that presents in season . And since nothing comes amiss , so nothing distastes him ; and where the Locust is , there is he ; which if well examined to the Center of the Calms , he shall recompense the Examinant with the reward of his life ; always provided he but separate the Body from the Leatherish Wing , which by reason of its Viscuosity is rarely digested ; nor is it otherwise by him well accepted . 'T is true , with green Cheese some Anglers do treat him , but then it succeds best at the tale of a Stream ; at the fall of Fords , into the solitary Deeps . And that you may know he affects variety , let the Artist at discretion exchange the Dairy Maid's Commons , for the beauty of a bright and well-scoured Red-worm , or the head of a Frog , in April or May , or a black Snail sometimes in a dewy Morning . These invitations make his Teeth stand a water . But for Salmon-Spawn if you bring him that Novel , you do your Business , and his too ; and shall have no cause I 'll assure you to repent it , when upon so fair an exchange , he trucks away his Life for a trifle . But September approaching , you must bring him Beef Pith , for which he shall sacrifice all he has , and give you his Carcase in exchange for his Commons . What 's more to be desired by the rule of Discretion , except the Angler be so indiscreet as not to accommodate him ? The Chub of all Fish in the Silver Trent , Invites the Angler to the Turnament ; Where near a Stream you 'l always find him ready To meet the Bait before it meets the Eddy . GRAILING . Umbar or Grailing is an amorous Fish , that loves a frolick as he loves his Life , whose Teeth water after every Wasp , as his Fins flutter after every Fly ; for if it be but a Fly , or the Product of an Insect , out of a generous Curiosity he is ready to entertain it . Smooth and swift Streams more than any thing enamour him , notwithstanding he declines the force of a Torrent : Nor shall you perswade him to quarrel with the gliding Streams , provided they be sweet , clear and shining . It is from these translucid Streams that the Hackle , and the artificial Fly court him ashore . But of all natural Insects that accommodate the Art , the green Drake is that sovereign Ophthalmick that opens his Eyes , and shuts them again , with the hazard of his Life , and loss of his Element . Yet for this Fly-admirer , there is another Bait , and that is the Munket , or a Seagreen-Grub , generated , as I take it , amongst Owlder-Trees . The like Product issues from the Willow , so does it from the Sallow ; nor is the Primp-fence denied this vegetable Animal , save only they are different in Splendour and Colour , as also as different in Shape and Proportion . Take then this Insect from the Owlder-Tree , to refute the Hypothesis of the incredulous Angler ; which if ingeniously cultivated by the Art of Angling , will upon proof of a well-manag'd Examination , invite Umbar or Grailing from the top , or mid-water , to kiss your Hand , or I 'll break my Rod and disclaim the Art. Well then , as we consider the Umbar not over-curious of Deeps , we must consider him also not over-cautious of Shallows , contenting himself with a middle Fate , that directs him to the smoothest and stiffest Streams , dedicating and devoting himself to Motion , because a great admirer of Peregrination ; and though not so generally understood as the Trout is , yet give me leave to tell you , if you fish him finely , he will keep you company , either in Darwin , so in Dove , or in the glittering silver Streams of Trent : Pray therefore when you fish him , fish him finely , for he loves Curiosity , neat and slender Tackle ; and , Lady-like , you must touch him gently , for to speak plain English , he is tender about the Chaps , otherwise perchance you defeat your self , so lose your Design . A Brandlin , if any thing , will intice him from the Bottom ; but the Gild-tail , of all Worms , upon change of Water , will invite him ashore , tho it cost him his Life . Vmbar or Grailing in the Streams he 'll lie , Hov'ring his Fins at every silly Fly. Fond of a Feather ; you shall see him rise At Emmits , Insects , Hackles , Drakes and Flies . BVRBOLT . The Burbolt is a Fish so rarely discours'd , and of so little conversation with other Fish , that it 's as difficult to find him , as it is to describe him , who differs in Nature from most other Fish ; so that if the Angler be not very ingenious , well educated and disciplined in the Rudiments of Angling , he undertakes a Task he can hardly perform , either to describe his Nature or his Haunt . I know there are some Rodomontadoes of the Rod , that wilfully and extravagantly will arraign their Faith , and rest it upon the mouldy Records and frothy Opinion of slippery Authority , whereby to confirm themselves in the vanity of Tradition , as also to gratify the Zeal of Putationers . For that end I must tell you , and you may tell others , that the silver Streams of triumphant Trent , as frequently as any Streams , stroke the scaly Fins of this famous Fish , who loves to live by them , but cares not to live in them , rather absconding himself in Eddies , and sometimes in Arches , not far from Streams and Torrents of Water , where he is frequently found by the industrious Angler : for to search him striving against a Stream , is like to Q Elizabeth's Scogen , that at the Sun's Meridian ( with a Candle and Lanthorn ) sought up and down for an honest Man : So to rifle the Streams in Trent , or any other River for this incognito , is but labour in vain , to seek for him that hides himself from the rest of his Associates in solitary Recesses ; a lively imitation of Diogenes in Dolio . The Burbolt therefore we are to consider him a Fish , that as rarely as any Fish travels far from Home to fetch his Food ; from whence we conclude him not over-cautious , whatever it costs him , that values not his Life to purchase what he loves . And Fashion he affects not , nor the Formality of Novels ; who contents himself with Country-Commons , rather than to ramble up and down for Varieties ; yet would have it constant , though not over-costly : who betters every thing by his own Delicacy , because himself is a delicate Morsel ; but seldom tasted , and as rarely consulted . Which makes every Angler desirous of him , since he that takes him gets a Reward ; which a well-scoured Red-worm certainly accomplishes , as soon as any thing except the Gudgeon , for that 's a Charm that compels him ashore . To write the Burbolt's Epitaph ; he dreams That baulks the Calms , to search him in the Streams . That Angler that will court him to his Dish , Must bring him Gudgeons to obtain his Wish . FLOVNDER . The Flounder is a Fish that bites before any Man's Face , not dreading the Aspect of an Invader . It 's true , he 's a Fish that 's as bold as a Buccaneer ; of much more Confidence than Caution , yet nothing more curious ; one that loves good Meat , and is good Meat himself ; whose Appetite is open as early as his Eyes , and contemplates Day before Sun-rise , frequently busying himself about Break-fast , half an Hour sometimes before break of Day ; and delights , I must tell you , to dwell among Stones , so does he among Stakes and gravelly Bottoms : besides he 's a great admirer of Deeps and ruinous Decays , yet as fond as any Fish of moderate Streams , and none beyond him except the Perch , that is more solicitous to rifle into Ruins ; insomuch that a Man would fancy him an Antiquary , when to consider him so affected with Reliques , yet of that undaunted Courage , that he dares to feed before any Man's Face , provided there be but Water enough to cover him , though not to conceal him . Moreover , he adheres so close to the Bottom , that a Man would think him inoculated to it , or at least an Inmate in another Element . For that end let us consider the Flounder a resolute Fish , and one that struggles stoutly for a Victory with the Angler , and is more than ordinarily difficult to deal with , by reason of his Built , which is altogether flat as it were a Level ; so that if it happen your Tackle be fine , and the Bottom , as it sometimes falls out , to be foul , you run the risk of your Adventure and Artillery . Now some Folks , beyond measure , admire this Fish , because opinionated he is so nutricious : And truly he 's good Food , which makes him so desirable , though seldom or rarely not over-cautious to come by , if the Angler be industrious but to bring him a Bait that he likes , and that is but reasonable . Present him with a Lob-worm , he 'll retaliate your Courtesy ; or in exchange , a depurated Dew-worm , he 'll not be ungrateful , for he loves variety of all sorts of Worms , the Tag or Tagil , besides Bradlins and Gild-tails , which will at any time intice him to die for what he loves ; for you must know he 's a Fish so fond of a Worm , that he 'll go to the Banquet tho he die at the Board . He that intends the Flounder to surprize , Must rise betimes , and fish before Sun-rise . But if the Sluggard cannot rise so early , Let him nod on , perhaps at Noon he 'll parly . EEL or CONGER . The Eel insinuates himself into all sorts of Waters , and can live in a Stream , or without it ; in the deepest Pit , or the shallowest Rivulet ; in dirty muddy Ditches , and silty owsy Bottoms ; or in rocky Cavities in any Rivers , wetting his Fins sometimes with the Ocean . Now some are conceited that Eels are Insects , and content not themselves with the Law of Germination : And if so , then it seems that Nature was more unactive about the Race of Eels , than other Animals committed to her Conduct ; because to protrude and thrust them forth as Inanimates , after the manner of Vegetation . Such are the ignorant Conceptions of Gesner , and the unthinking Rabble of his ridiculous Proselytes ; who , because to suck in such pernicious Principles , have tainted , nay poisoned themselves by infecting others : For had they but considered that Eels have Eggs , ( tho not so long as other Fish to bear them about them ) without dispute it would expose some of them to a Blush , if when to reflect on their erroneous Rashness , that causeth the Artist to laugh at their Ignorance . But that Eels do germinate , is past dispute ; for if the Roe , or Spawn , be the Product of Germination , then Eels , as other Animals , may germinate in specie , because furnished with all the Qualities for Germination ; as is observed by the female Fish , whose burdened Belly in the Spring ( if examined ) will sufficiently convince the Incredulity of such as would by Advice be better informed , whilst permitting others to content themselves with the vanity of Ignorance , that Eels are Insects . The Eel therefore , you shall find him in Caverns , and the Cavities sometimes of hollow Rocks , Grips and Gullies , devised on purpose by Engineers for the draining of Grounds : Or else you may observe him in Holes or hollow Banks , the Flaws in Bridges and broken Breaches , occasioned sometimes by Inundations of Water ; out of which Abscondments any Man may angle him , that contrives but a Worm neatly on the end of a Wand ; which Artifice is Probing , and some call it Proking ; but we dispute not the Term. Now a more expeditious Invention , though not half so genteel , is that Engine or Artifice some call a Gleave , but some others the Eel-spear . Then there 's Bobbing with a bunch or cluster of Worms , strung upon Threads , non-commissionated by Anglers : Yet Night-hooks were never prohibited , nor need they , since the Eel bites in the heat of the Day . You must therefore consider him a Fish of an odd Humour , that the sight of a Worm shall tempt him ashore , though he sacrifice his Life to the Lust of his Adversary . The Eel and Conger lies in sandy Bays , On gravel Beds , and sometimes in Decays . In hollow Banks or Stanks , in Bridges there You 'll find this Fish as soon as any where . LAMPRE . The Lampre ( or Suck-stone ) frequently accosts the Streams in Severn , and is conversant also with many other Rivers in the Kingdom of England . A Fish that makes more sport in the Pie than the Pool ; but of no great acquaintance nor familiarity with Anglers ; and that is the reason he is so little discours'd , as if there were no such thing in being : But assure your self there is , and the plenty of such in the River Cam , and some other Rivers , as Thames and Trent ; that I dare to assert and divulge them numerous : But as torpid Deeps do not always delight him , so transparent Streams do not altogether transport him ; nor admires he the Torrents of rapid Rivers : And because no constant Housekeeper , we have considered him as unconstant to Diet. It 's true , I have no Commission to assign him a Traveller , and yet he is seldom or rarely at Home . At Home did I say ? surely I mistook my self , because he has no Home to go to , who lives like an Intruder , insinuating himself into all sorts of Company , and puts a Foot under every ones Table : for we find him a Fish altogether in suspicion ; therefore seldom admitted among the scaly Society ; who prefers Sand and Gravel-beds infinitely before muddy Recrements ; and loves to be casting and sucking Stones , because it 's a great part of his Life and Maintenance ; except otherwhiles he stumbles upon Offil or Garbage , which if he do , he feasts himself like a Country-Farmer ; when at other times , like a shotten Herring , he is forced to take up with shorter Commons ; and such are the roots of Segs and Candocks , which assign him a sutable Sauce to his Diet. I never yet knew an Angler with the Rod , that designed a Day 's Diversion with this piece of Suspicion . It is true , I have heard him variously discoursed , and perhaps as often as other Men , have seen him make Circles in his own Element , but irregular ones out on 't ; for I have been at his Death sometimes with an Instrument , and sometimes without it ; but never at his Destruction with the Rod and Line . The next enquiry will be , how we shall surprize this Argos , and reduce him , in some measure , to the Angler's Designs . In order to that , some court him with Loaches , some with Minews , some with Dew-worms , a small Gudgeon , or toasted Cheese : but the Maw of a Beast best pleaseth him of any thing ; and truly I fancy it the most natural Bait for such a kind of a nasty Fish , that nothing can surprize but the noosed Net ; except he happens to meet with the berbed Speer . The Lampre loves a gravely Bottom best , And 's fam'd for Pie-meat more than all the rest . I needs must say the Angler takes a Prize That takes this Argos ; or this Fish All-eyes . ROACH . As the Roach is no costly Fish , so is he not over-curiously enquired after . He that seeks him , without difficulty finds him as early for breakfast , as the Sun salutes the Creation ; whose habitation is found bordering upon Banks , in Eddies , small Turns , and meandring Streams ; and where there 's a Bush in the Suburbs of the Streams , there you shall find him sheltring himself ; when recruits of Rain force down the Freshes , and drive the Soil from off the fertil Fields ; for then you may fish him , and not go far to find him : when at other times , more especially near the approaching Winter , he houses himself in the more solitary security of Candocks and Bull-rushes , in Depths of the Water . but whilst we paraphrase and discourse the Roach , we but decipher and interpret the Rud ; since Nature's Laws are alike to both , for both have but one Fate and Period , though of different complexion in Fin , having natural Inclination to long and warm Days , to small and trilling Streams , yet neither of them lovers nor admirers of Travel : by which you may guess , that seldom or rarely they are found far from Home ; for placing a Content in their little Confinements , shews their unwillingness to examine the extent of their Confines . Now you are to consider the Roach a great Fly-admirer , who examines the Season by the Sun's distribution of Heat , that generously warms and nourisheth the Creation , by giving a new Life after the Death of an expiring Winter . And since we observe him so inamoured with Flies , care must be taken to bring him what he loves ; and that is the Ant , when Insects come in , for which servile Gratitude he recompenseth the Angler . Or if in the mean time he be accommodated with Bank-flies , small Flesh-flies , or a well-scoured Gentle , he doubly retaliates , when he gives you himself . I have given him Brandlins , Bee-grubs , Cow-Grubs , Cabbage-Grubs , Cankers , Caterpillars , Pastes of all Compounds , and of various Tinctures ; for which he never was ungrateful : but he that brings him the yellow Cod-worm , brings him what he loves , for his Patrimony can never purchase the Prize , but submits to the Charm , and proffers himself to the Angler . The Roach ( or Rud ) not greedy of promotion , Loves Ponds and Rivers , better than the Ocean . In solitary Pools they spend their Time ; And Travel hate as an immortal Crime . DACE . The Dace or Dare is the Fresh-water Herring ; a Fish that is common and constant ; one that loves to divert himself , and is the Angler's Diversion : for it 's rare to come to the Waterside , and find him out of Humour to bite . Now to tell you where he lives , I need not ; for you shall find him in most or all the Rivers and Rivulets in England ; and to acquaint you with what he loves , is needless , for there 's nothing that is edible he 'l at any time refuse . Hot Weather allures him forth of Deeps ; for warm Days invite him abroad for Recreation , because then he bathes himself in the glittering Streams ; but when affected with Cold , he dives into the more solitary Deeps , as most or all other Fishes do , that burden themselves with Water , as Age is burdened with Diseases and Infirmities . But at the Period of bright Cinthia's Progress , when the Sun and long Days have consumed the Recrement of the expiring Winter ; then you shall find him sporting , and picking among the gliding silver Streams of Trent : so in most Rivers in the confines of the Kingdom ; where you may recreate your self , and refresh him with a Bank , Stone , or Flag-fly ; as the Opportunity of the Place , and the Season of the Year presents . For in the Vernon Ingress , if you proffer him Drakes , either the green or the gray Drake , he will never refuse them ; or should you invite him with their Shadow ( viz. ) the artificial Resemblance , you complement him with a Curiosity : But the natural Fly , more abundantly than the Artificial , contributes to his Humour . But his Ground-bait is the Brandlin , if well purged in delicate sweet and new Moss ; or a fair large Gentle , well depurated and scoured in Bran : but the yellow Cod-worm excels all the rest ( as a Flame in Bowdie excels all Colours ) provided it be adorned with the Head of a Fly. This is the Charm that invites him ashore , and as soon as any thing brings him to Hand . The Dace of all Fish is the daring Fish To sport with Flies , and after in the Dish He 's not to be despis'd ; because his end 's To sport the Angler , and to feast his Friends . RVFF . The Ruff , some call him Pope ; but call him what you will , for I suppose he obtained that Title from his infallibility of biting ; which he seldom fails to do , if the Angler happens to come where he is , and that is almost every where . This little Desperado , tho he wants Conduct , yet has he Resolution and Courage enough to encounter Death ; who seldom as any Fish gives an Affront , yet rarely or never refuses the Combat . It is true , he is Cautious , but not Contentious ; more a Hero than a Hector ; who never flies , except at the Face of his Enemy ; and is for the most part constant in Victory , save only when encountring the victorious Angler . This little Buckaneer arm'd at all Points , consorts the Angler , and entertains him at all times , provided he seek for him near the solitary decays of broken Bridges , ruinous Foundations , and the Roots of Trees . Besides , he loves Bull-rushes , Beds of Segs and Candocks , where frequently you may find him . So in Eddies , turns in Water , but in meandring Pools you will rarely miss of him ; and where Stumps , Stakes , and hollow Banks are , there is he to be found ; otherwise conclude he is not in that Colony . This little resolute Animal , his Stature considered , is of as great resolution as any Fish that wags a Fin , and as generous and profuse of his Life as his Lordship : not unlike the Prodigal , that hates to out-live his Estate and Patrimony . The Angler therefore that would civilly treat him , ought to bring him what he loves , and that you know is but requisite and reasonable ; and where-ever you find him , it 's a hundred to one that the whole Armado is not far from him ; since for the most part they move all in a Body . One would think them Mutineers , because all of a Piece ; for if you hang but one , all the rest are in danger . Nor will they revolt , or retreat from their Diet , since every one resolves to eat till he die . I fancy them somewhat of the Nature of Negroes , that expect after Death to return back to the Goldcoast ; for if you bring him but a Brandlin , or a well-purg'd Gild-tail , he shall shew you his Face , and leap into the Pannier . The Ruff , or Pope , inhabits little Holes , Betwixt the Artick and Antartick Poles : Who seldom quarels ; yet can't well dispense With an Affront , who arms for his defence . GVDGEON . As the Gudgeon is a most delicious Fish , so ought he to be most delicately drest ; and because the Angler's , and every one's Entertainment , therefore he 's preferr'd before many other Fish that make not so fine a show in the Platter . It 's true , there 's no fear to surfeit of a Diet that 's so naturally nutricious , and converts all into Nourishment , without the Law of Physick . This piece of curiosity is a curious admirer of limpid , clear and cristalline Streams , more especially when surrounded with gentle turns in Rivers and Rivulets , that have sandy Bottoms ; and if paved with Gravel , it 's never the worse ; who almost to a Miracle affects Cleanliness in eating ; and as he loves his Life , loves that his Meat should always be well washed before he eats it . This fresh-water Smelt seldom or never roves abroad as other Fish do , to recreate himself with Insects and Flies ; but contents himself at home with a Gentle , rather than to ramble abroad for Varieties : for to speak plain English , his Life is in danger , and Sentence of Death pronounced at the sight almost of every master-Fish . But the Brandlin he adores as his select Modicum , and the Gild-tail sweetens all his Diversions : so that if either be brought him to sport and play with , he would have it vivid , but not livid ; and sweetned and adorned with an odoriferous Perfume . Now some Anglers have been pleased to write various Encomiums on this little curious piece of Mortality ; and they do him right : for he is a Fish , that not only entertains the Angler with the Rod , but as if there were a familiarity betwixt them , nibbles at his Toes , whilst he muddles in the Streams ; diverting not the Angler only , but the Salmon also . Besides , the Perch admires him , and the Eel , and the Burbolt adore him . So do many other Fish , but the Pike above all Fish no sooner sees him , but his Teeth water till he taste of the Dainty . The Gudgeon loves the Water , sweet and clear : In freshest Streams , and smallest Turns , he 's there . Lock till you find him ; then you find your Wish , If for a Banquet , or a Bait for Fish. BLEAK . The Bleak or Whitlin is the Summer Intelligencer , and more of a Masculine than a Feminine Nature ; that conceals himself ( Ladylike ) all the Winter , till long Days and a warm Sun invites him forth to purchase Flies , which are sold him sometimes at the rate of his Life . This Fresh-water Sprat is of most accurate Motion , and feeds not much unlike the Swallow , partaking very much of his Nature and Quality , as near as Fish and Fowl can do , or as near as Fish and Flesh can have , and that 's as near as the Elements can admit of : which certainly is a Secret , yet very observable , if the Angler but consider their coming in , which is in the Vernon Ingress ; their natural Food , and their going out together , in the Autumnal Equinox . You must also remember that he loves not a Stream , yet would he by no means dwell far from it ; and bites aloft at the Race of Flies , yet gratifies himself with the Soil of the Earth . At Mid-water if you seek him , he 's solicitous after Gentles ; and if at the Bottom , he desires a Brandlin : but he that would court him to death with a Dainty , must bring him a parcel of Ant-flies . The Bleak or Whitlin , floats in silent Deeps In Summer-time ; but all the Winter sleeps ; For then he 's seldom seen : this curious Dish Implicit Walton calls the Swallow-Fish . MINEW . The Minew or Penk is , in my Opinion , but a very small Banquet for Fish or Fisher. But a little discourse shall serve for this little Fish , that is no ways difficult to find , nor is he over-curious to catch , provided the Artist but come where he is , and that 's almost every where : nor need you search him in rapid Streams , for there he is not , yet dwells not far from them ; but in Rills and Rivulets , in their small Turns of Water , with a bit of a Worm , or a Brandlin , if you please , you may turn him out as soon as with any thing . The Minue lives , I need not tell you how ; Examine Trent , and there you 'l find enow . The Salmon , Trout , and Perch , sliely he 'l cheat Them of their Lives ; and yet 's their daily Meat . Th. And must this be our Exercise to trample the beautiful Banks and the florid Meadows of famous Trent , to rifle her Fords for Diversion , and sweeten our Senses with fragrant Odorates that perfume the Air ? blest beyond expectation , to imprint on her silver Sands the lively Character of the Angler's Footsteps , whilst we flourish our Artillery over the trembling Streams , as they silently glide through the redolent Fields , with a soft but sweet and murmuring Noise . Ar. Thus we may divert our selves with the Streams of Trent , until the radiant Zenith strike us with Heat , and then consult Umbrage under the shady Oaks ; where not to be idle , we may there form Flies , and keep out of Sun-shine ; where the Rocks and the Woods will invite us to contemplate the imbellished Creation , the variety of Creatures , and the All-glorious Creator . Th. This I confess is Sovereign Advice , and if I mistake not , the shady Trees of Sherwood will conduce to moderate the fiery Strokes of the Sun , whilst Phaeton with his Chariot careers to the Western Fountains . Ar. Nor till then is it needful to return to our Exercise , and make inrodes with our Art and artificial Artillery ; for to practise the Ground-bait in the Heat of the Day , is a piece of Industry without any Ingenuity ; since the true knowledg and disquisitions of the Ground-bait , if sedulously consulted , will sufficiently compensate the Toil of the Artist , because when to afford him a due poize of Profit , with solitary Pleasure . Moreover , it 's less difficult to calculate the constant Commons that Fish themselves frequently acquire , than to enumerate the various and multiform Classes of Emmits , Insects , Worms and Flies . Th. I believe no less . Ar. Then cast back your Eye on those solid Foundations of Earth and Rocks , and consider with your self the Ornaments of Nature ; how Concretions are link'd together , and Earths and Clays amalgamiz'd and coagulated into Minerals : How Animals and Insects are lodg'd and conceal'd in the Surface of Soils and stagnated Pools ; meaning such as compensate the Art and Industry of every Industrious and Ingenious Angler . Nor is it difficult to procure this mortal Entertainment for Exercise and Recreation ; since it 's nothing more than a knotted Earth-worm , of which there are several Sorts , and diversity of Sizes ; consequently various Kinds , and variety of Colours . Th. Pray explain your self . Ar. Thus I explain my self ; as the Nature and Quality of the Earth is , such also are the Generations and Productions of Animals and Insects ingendred ther in . Some Products we observe them to be naturally leprous , and such are usually struck with morbifick Deformities . Some again are Prolifick , and animated with Life ; as some others are design'd for Vegetation . Some Earths are cold , frigid and moist ; on the contrary some others by reason of the salinity of Sand , are fortified with Heat almost to excess . There are also various Complexions of Earths and Soils , which calify and indurate by the Sun's Reflection , so incrustate themselves by Contact and Connexion , that with little difficulty facilitate a Warmth : so that whilst some are accidentally Cold , as ardent are othersome because influenced by Callifaction . But as some are naturally Cold , by Northern Influence , destinated to a marly spungeous Clay ; intemperately Hot are othersome , by confluence of bituminous and sulphureous Mixts cooperating with them . Some are boggy , some gravelly , some naturally fertil , othersome as naturally sterril . All which demonstrate the various Modification and Methods of Nature , and the Divine preordinate Wisdom of God the Creator , whose Decrees are inviolable , and whose Laws are irrevocable ; and from whom Nature in all her Operations copies to the Life from the first Original . When therefore seriously to consider the various Families of Insects and Animals , naturally protruded and thrust forth into the World , for the supply of themselves and their fellow-Creatures , it demonstrates a Benevolence , and not a Prodigality in Nature to stock the Elements with such a numerous Increase , as my self and others have curiously inspected . So that sometimes one Animal , and sometimes another , infinitely excels as to the Anglers Recreation . But the Classis of Worms are multiform and various ; manifestly the Lob , or more properly the Dew-worm , Knob or knotted Worm ; Red-worm , Brandlin , Gild-tail , Marish-worm ; Flag and Dock-worm , Tag and Tagil , Spotspere , Munck and Muck-worm ; Cod-worm and Straw-worm , &c. But it 's impossible to enumerate the innumerable Sorts and Varieties of Worms , and the Texture of Insects , ( different also in Shape , Colour , Beauty and Proportion ) except prophetically instructed beyond the due mediums of Art , or otherwise inspected by natural Observation : As when to imagine some of them smooth , of a contrary Quality are those that are ruff , fretted , and knotted . The various like we read of Colour , Form , Beauty , Proportion and Complexion ; as when to inspect some of them Red , some others Green , some Red and Green with a greenish Cast ; and some Green with a reddish Tincture ; and some affected with a glance of both : Some again display a brownish blewish and purplish Rubedo ; some others shine forth a Citrine Colour ; so that some are Yellowish , and some again Orange ; some are Gray , some Livid , some Veril , some Azure , and some more obscure , imprest with various Signatures and remarkable Observations . Nature generously provides multiplicity of this animal Race , whereby to furnish her Common-Weal , and accommodate her solicitous Admirers . But of all the Worms that move in the Earth , the Gild-tail alone is the Angler's Corona . Th. Now I conclude the Fish as good as half catch'd , had we but Cooks to order and dress them , and our Appetites in effect moderately refresh'd ; had we but patience to pick out the Bones . After this manner Recreation brings a Reward , when proportioned to propagate the Sovereign Ray of Health ; but not that I extol the luxurious Angler , that prefers the Platter by the pentiful Pannier : for he that imitates generous Nature , must when he puts a Period to the Progress of the Life of one Fish , charitably endeavour the multiplication of Thousands ; otherwise he that voraciously pursues his Exercise , either spoils the Creatures to gratify his Luxury , or sports away their Lives for the vanity of Excess . Ar. I approve of your Morals and modest Conceptions , that direct the Angler to furnish himself with such convincing Arguments , as invite him only to fish for Recreation . How few Pretenders to the Rod then , would covet the Death of Fish for Fancy ? Nay , who would not study to prolong their Lives , were it for no other End than to furnish the Fords , to relieve the Necessitous , and divert the Angler ? Were not the Ends of the Creation made answerable to the Means of Preservation ? Who disputes it ? Then if so , let me tell you that immoderate Exercise ( in all or any one ) puts a damp to Pleasure ; and if the End of Pleasure can be adjudged Destruction , then no Man can be satisfied without Excess . And what is Excess but inordinate Riot , that makes a breach in the Royal Commandments , in opposition to Life , so results in Death ? Where note , this Distinction is necessary to be understood ; that as Rods and Nets are different Means , so they also answer to different Ends. The first , if when to consult rapid and roling Streams ; but the latter results in such Parts of Water , where no Line nor Rod claims a right of Privilege ; or with such a Fish whose invincible Strength , nothing but the Net can encounter and overcome . Thus arm'd at all Points with our innocent Artillery , and resolved to trample the redolent Fields , and the florid Meadows of famous Trent , we shall there encounter with murmuring Streams that invite to Exercise and Contemplation : whilst the shady Forest , and solitary Groves advance our Speculation to the Suburbs of Paradise ; where all the Trees stand in such a beautiful Order ( to admiration ) and divinely drest by the Royal Hand of him that made this stupendous Creation , denotes Mortals immortal , and Time eternal : which true Felicity no Man attains to , by the study of Morals only , and the Beauty of the Creation , but a Crucified Saviour , and the Piety of Christianity ; and then I know not but the Streams of Damascus may as effectually cleanse as the Pool of Bethesda . Th. Your Discourse seems too intricate , and ambiguous for the Vulgar . Ar. Not at all , for it neither violates Humanity , nor opposes the Piety of Christianity ; it only points to those destitute of Devotion , that would , if possible , enervate the mystical Ray of Discovery , assassinate Piety , and silence the Oracles of Truth , to strike truth dumb ; so bury and entomb it in the Sepulchre of Oblivion . But Truth 's bright and illustrious Star will convince the World of the Truth of this Hypothesis , that neither Envy nor Emulation ( nor studied Art in opposition to Truth ) though formented by the Sons of Zoilus , shall never darken it so , as totally to deface it , but will shine forth a Light to discover their Shame , with the Vice of the Times , and Exorbitancy of Life . I write to the Intelligent , and not to Alphabet Anglers , that wander up and down besides themselves , to lick up the spumous Froth of Fiction , and rally the Records of fabulous Pamphleteers , to swell their impoverished empty Volumes , on purpose spread abroad to amuze the unwary : but this I resolve against , by exhorting Ingenuity to consult Experience , notwithstanding my Rudiments and laborious Directions ; for without due observation in the Exercise of Angling , besides Speculation in the Progress of Theory ( in this , or indeed in any other Art ) no Man shall level a right Foundation . Th. Such signal Remonstrations ( like a ingressive Spirit ) strike deep Impressions into my thoughtful Breast . It must be a Master ; and what Maste● but Experience must we have , to induct us i●●● the Methods , Mediums and Regularities of Science ? Does Experience any more obliterate Theory , than Rudiments rip up the Foundation of Art ? which they do not , nor cannot : then ought the Rules of Practicks to be the solicitation of every Artist , which Analysis of necessity I cannot but comply with ; or let the surviving Ages engrave on my Tomb-stone , Post est occasio calva . Ar. To compleat a Scholar therefore , we are to consider that every Pedagogue that initiates his Novice into the Rudiments of Grammar , gives him Literature first . After the same manner , and not altering my Methods , I have laid down the Rules and Hypotheses of the Ground-bait . Where note , I prefer the Worm for the Angler's Exercise ( if artificially scoured ) as a general Bait before any other , and upon all Occasions ( inordinate Seasons excepted ) if purposing thereby to consult the Bottom ( as also the innumerable families of Fish : ) and so farewel , for it 's almost Sun-set . Theophilus . What tho the Night 's dark Scenes and Shades display The bright Sun's absence ; can't the Stars make Day ? Arnoldus . Can those obscurer Tapers light the World , Whose Lights are from the Sun 's bright Furnace hurl'd ? Motion they have , it 's true ; that causes wonder : But God that join'd their Rays , takes them asunder . Theophilus . From what bright Influence then do Comets borrow Their radiant Beam ? Arnoldus . The Stars , they strike them thorow . Theophilus . Must we conclude the World all Vegetation , Humane Race excepted , by Generation ? Arnoldus . The slippery Womb of Earth , in time sent out A thing uncapable to walk about : Till God in love , out of a pure Compassion , Made Man the Margin of this great Creation . Theophilus . Why then do Mortals fight against Superiours ; And pull down Angels to advance Inferiours ? Arnoldus . Man may attempt it ; but his slender Arm Has hardly warmth in 't for to keep him warm . Theophilus . No , why then presumes he by force to raise His Fires so high to make the Heavens blaze ? Arnoldus . That 's a mistake , Man 's but a Minute's Breath , Blown out of Doors but with one puff of Death . Theophilus . And yet immortal too ! strange Prodigy , That Man the Lord of all , should live to die ! Arnoldus . 'T is true , a Star fell on a Shrine of Earth , That touch'd Mortality , and gave it Birth , Conduct and Reason , and a Soul immortal , Lit by the Lamp of Heaven's glorious Portal . Made all Miraculous , yet this won't please : Heaven must die , to cure the World's Disease . And yet this mortal Wonder we call Man , Is still averse e're since the World began . Theophilus . Vngrateful Creature , who by Heaven's Decree , Was made to live , and had the Sov'raignty Of the Creation . What to say I know not ; Nor what to think , for Thoughts are things that do not . Arnoldus . Since Days and Nights all terminate in one , And Stars made Emblems of their Sovereign Sun : Then to be Loyal , each a Star must be ; But to be Royal , claims the Sov'raigntie . The Gordian Knot 's so knit , none can unty But he that made the World's great Harmony . For God with Nature such sublime things blended , That Man nor Dev'ls , Angels themselves can't find it . We can but climb the gradual Steps of Sense ; And they 'r but Motives to Intelligence . But those sweet melting Cords in a Saint's Brest , That lives by Faith of things yet unexprest , Invigorate the Soul ; and lends her Eyes to see That Earth and Heaven , all 's but Harmony . Theophilus . Then Rocks are Organs , and the ambient Air But the harsh sound of Heaven's softer Quire. Waters make Musick ; so all things by Art , Where Nature freely her free Gifts impart , Speak Harmony , and divinely shows That from another Fountain this thing flows . Arnoldus . Consider but the Chaos in Creation , When the Divinest made a Separation : How that the Earth stood still , whilst he rais'd higher The Sun's bright Torch , or all had been on Fire . Theophilus . Amazing Wonder ! see , Aurora now Strips off the Sables from Night's shady Brow ! That Sol no sooner peeps to gild the Skies , But all the Mists before his Presence flies . Arnoldus . 'T is true they do ; and he that sees their flight , Sees Darkness gradually transform'd to Light. Yet let him not mistake himself , for Day Is but Time's Copy-Book : cast that away , And what presents ? Death more obscure than Night , Through whose dark Pilgrimage we creep to Light. LAUS DEO . FINIS . ADVERTISEMENT . RABBI MOSES ; or , A Philosophical Treatise of the Original and Production of Things . Writ in America in a Time of Solitudes . By R. Franck. And are to be sold by the Author at his House in Barbican . Notes, typically marginal, from the original text Notes for div A40385-e4060 See Ludlow's Reply to Hollingworth .