FISHERMAN.

You see in me a poor man, who supports his family by catching fish with nets, hooks, and the like.

SUPERINTENDENT. [Laughing.

A most refined occupation, certainly[85]!

FISHERMAN.

Blame me not for it, master,

The father's occupation, though despised
By others, casts no shame upon the son,
And he should not forsake it[86]. Is the priest
Who kills the animal for sacrifice
Therefore deemed cruel? Sure a low-born man
May, though a fisherman, be tender-hearted.

SUPERINTENDENT.

Well, well; go on with your story.

FISHERMAN.