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Travels in Some Parts of North America, in the Years 1804, 1805, & 1806, by Robert Sutcliff

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and finished in an expensive manner, stands on a rising ground just above the Falls of the Schuyl- kill, commanding a fine prospect of Philadelphia and the river Delaware, both above and below that city, being only about four miles distant. The prospect embraces many beautiful country residences on every hand. B. J. had lately made a purchase of the house and 35 acres of land adjoining. In this purchase was also included a good farm-house, with an orchard, garden, out- houses, and a cottage or two. In one of these cottages, close by the Falls, a family resides, who are employed by B. J. in the book-binding busi- ness. The situation is as pleasant as can well be conceived. At this part of the river, the Shad Fishery is prosecuted with great spirit in the early part of summer. Almost every farmer who hap- pens to have a field on the banks of the river, keeps a net for this purpose; and, with a little industry, may, in the course of two or three weeks, lay up a supply for the whole year. The fish are salted, and are brought out, through the winter, as a relish at breakfast and supper. I have some times stood by in the evening watch- ing the people taking these fish. The nets used are about 50 or 60 yards in length, and about 6 feet in width; the lower side being weighted with lead, and upper side supported with pieces of cork. One