"They have a habit of remaining off the coast in salt water during the winter months in northern latitudes, and then entering the rivers when the spawning season begins, ascending the rivers slowly, despite every obstacle that may be put in their way. When they reach a favorite spot, the eggs are laid and are hatched out in countless numbers."
"Has it been discovered why they do this?"
"In order to escape their enemies, who seek the eggs. Even with the care which they take in breeding, millions are destroyed, and it has been estimated that if all the eggs laid were hatched out the number would be so great as to prevent navigation along the shores of the coasts where they thrive. In the rivers of Oregon and Washington the shoals of salmon are frequently so great in the rivers as to make it impossible for a boat to be navigated through them."
Harry was awarded with the second catch, which was fully fifteen inches in length. It had a nearly cylindrical body, covered with exceptionally large scales, and its head above convex. The striking thing about it was the color, the back being of a bottle-green, light on the sides, and silvery white underneath.
The Professor was on hand at once. "You have captured a fine specimen of the mullet, not considered, generally, as a game fish. It is a particularly fine table fish."
George came in for his share of luck, as well as John, who seemed to enjoy the sport immensely. His eyes showed that. It was a pleasure to all at this opportunity to bring something into the life of the poor unfortunate so that he might be brought back to light again.
CHAPTER XVI
MUSIC AND ANIMALS
During the evening George suggested that as the trip was to be overland it might be wise to can some of the fish, or to use some of the receptacles found in the cave for this purpose.