LAVER [To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]
Sur,—The article in your issue of the 12th inst., headed " Laver," is very interesting, but where on earth does the name " Laver " come from ?
As a person born in Cornwall fifty-nine years ago I can tell you that " slouk " was a very common item of food on the coast between Newquay and Padstow, and probably further along. It grows in quantities on the half-tide rocks, spreading over them like a glossy chocolate-coloured silk handkerchief, and when stewed with limpets, periwinkles, and mussels makes a very savoury, not to say satisfying dish.
The same substance is known in the south of Ireland as " sloukaun." If it were not so plentiful it would doubtless be appreciated as a rarity. The " tea " age, however, has probably destroyed the taste for " slouk " in Cornwall long
since.--I am, Sir, &e., MswaAx PORTII. 6 Albert Road, Sandycove, Co. Dublin.
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