My line had not been long in the water when I felt a bite.  I almost trembled with eagerness as I gave a gentle jerk, sufficient to hook the unwary fish.  It tugged pretty hard, and I was sure that I had it fast; but still I was afraid that it might break my line.  Carefully I drew it along till I got it sufficiently near the surface to ascertain its size. To my satisfaction, I saw that it was not more than two or three pounds' weight.  After playing it for some time I drew it towards the bank, when Mike, who had hitherto not got a bite, left his rod and rushed into the water to secure our prize, exclaiming--