Ven: But, sir, were it not better to be by the water-side? There is no chance of a fish here.
Pisc: As much, my honest scholar, as beside the very stream. The fly will not show before seven minutes after eleven of the clock, at soonest. Hostess, a draught of ale.
Ven: Good Master, you do amaze me. How know you this so surely?
Pisc: Let me tell you, sir, that your fly is a creature very obedient to the action of the elements. On a grey morning, such as we have to-day, he lacketh the genial warmth of the sun to bring him forth. But forth he must come, will he, nill he, and that he will do this morning at seven after eleven. Nor will he fail us. Come, will you drink a civil glass with me?
Ven: Most gladly, sir; but I had rather be a-fishing. See, the sun is shining now.
Pisc: Fear not, worthy scholar; the fly will appear neither sooner nor later than I say.
Ven: I pray you, master, tell me how you have got this prodigious knowledge?
Pisc: Marry, sir, by learning. But I confess that no direction can be given to make weatherwise a man of dull capacity. Your good health, my impatient scholar.
