willow-covered island in its course. Between Arley and Bewdley it is
well stocked with grayling, dace, and that king of Severn fish, the
salmon which is often taken hero; also with that "queen of fresh-water
fish" the carp, speaking of which an old distich says:--

"Hops and turkeys, carps and beer,
Came into England all in one year."

Like pike, they are long-lived; referring to which, Ben Jonson says:--

"Fat, _aged carps_, that run into thy net,
And pikes, now weary their own kind to eat."

During the winter months carp are caught in broad, quiet parts of the
river; in summer, in holes and reaches, under hollow banks, and near beds
of weeds or flags. All kinds of bait are recommended, but a well-scoured
worm is often best.

[Crap: 16.jpg]



HIGHLEY,


Or Higley, as it is commonly called, is two and a half miles from Arley.
The village is situated high upon the hill, and consists of scattered
cottages, with a sprinkling of goodly houses, some half timbered, after
the quaint fashion of former times. The church has an ancient chancel
window, and in the graveyard is an old cross, elaborately carved in