Edible and Poisonous Mushrooms. By M. C. Cooke. (S.P.C.K.) —This
is a capital and well-illustrated guide to the succulent dainties of the fields and woods, and adds so much more to the debt the public owe to the S.P.C.K. Alas ! to the majority who suffer from the tyranny of the cook, it will be a luxury of the purest and most imaginary type. The household, as represented by the tutelary deity of the kitchen, will fight tooth and nail against " toadstools " one and all. To conservative house- keepers, even such enticing names as " vegetable beefsteak" and " sweetbread mushroom " will appeal in vain. There is much to be said for them, as they would hold themselves responsible, having cooked the " toadstools," for any disaster that might occur. After all, we can get on without these edible fungi, and though it is a loss to go without them, yet to go without them means peace and quiet. With patience and tact some could be introduced into the kitchen, and though it means time and trouble, we would not discourage readers of this little book from trying to better their lot. The rest of us must be content to bide our time and eat heartily Agaricus (Prallista) Campestris.
Previous page
