As moisture is at all times destructive to wood, it is essential for the angler to guard all in his power against its influence on his rod; for, admitting that a shower of rain will not spoil it, yet if not protected by varnish, it may soon be deprived of its elasticity, which is the chief requisite of any, and more particularly of a fly-rod. Variety of methods are used in preparing varnish; the one here mentioned is said to be excellent.
Varnish Recipe.—Half a pint of linseed oil, and a little India rubber scraped fine; put them over a slow fire, and stir them well together, until the rubber is dissolved, then boil and skim it, apply it warm, and do not use the rod until quite dry. The appearance upon the rod will be like a fine thin bark; it will preserve the rod from being worm-eaten, and from other injuries, and is very durable.
Another.—Half an ounce of shell, and the same quantity of seedlac powdered fine in a mortar; put into separate phials, with half a pint of good spirits of wine in each, and placed in a sand heat to dissolve; during the process, shake the phials often; when each is dissolved, mix them together in a larger bottle, with half an ounce of gum benzoin; increase the heat, and the dregs will subside; then warm the wood, and with a camel’s hair brush apply that part of the varnish which is become fine; the third coat will remain on the surface, and securely protect the rod from injury.—Old Receipts.
Varnish, v. To cover with something shining.
Vascular, a. Consisting of vessels, full of vessels.
Vault, v. To leap, to jump.
Udder, s. The breast or dugs of a cow, or other large animals.
Veal, s. The flesh of a calf killed for the table.
Vegetable, s. Anything that has growth without sensation, as plants.
Vegetable, a. Belonging to a plant; having the nature of plants.