My father having
consented to undertake the picture, the proprietor caused the trout,
though with much difficulty, to be caught in a stub-net. It appeared of a
most beautiful colour, and was finely variegated with spots; but it
possessed such exceeding strength, that the assistance of two men was
necessary to hold it down on a table while the measurement was made. It
proved to be twenty-six inches in length, and weighed _nine pounds_. The
proprietor returned it to the water unhurt, for he would by no means
suffer it to be killed, but caused food from time to time to be thrown
into the stream. This food chiefly consisted of meal and flour, made into
small balls, which allured the trout to remain near the mill-head. When
the particulars concerning this remarkable fish were circulated, many
persons came from different parts of Kent, and even from London, to
obtain a sight of it.
Numerous individuals now living at Farningham can attest the truth of
this account; and, probably, the painting may still be seen at that place.
_September_ 20, 1828.
G.W.N.
* * * * *
INSCRIPTION FOR A BROOK
(_For the Mirror_.)
SUR UN RUISSEAU.
Coule gentil ruisseau, sous cet epais fouillage:
Ton bruit charme les sens--il attendrit le coeur.
Coule gentil ruisseau, car ton cours est l'image
D'un beau jour ecoule dans le sein du bonheur.
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