[Illustration: _Fruiterer_]
where the children were desired to take what they liked best.
"All our fruits originally came from abroad," said Mr. Durnford, "but
we have improved upon them, although our climate is not sufficiently
warm to bring them to that perfection, which is the boast of the
Southern nations. The pineapple, which you know is a most delicious
fruit, comes from the West Indies, but we have excellent pineries in
England, as well as fine melons. They also are natives of both the
Indies. Our finest pears are from France, oranges, nuts, almonds,
olives, grapes, chestnuts, pomegranates, lemons, and prunes, all come
from the South of Europe. Oranges originally came from China. We do not
know the real flavour of an orange in this country, as they are pulled
long before they are ripe, and sent over here to be purchased by the
fruit merchants. Some of these look very good, therefore we will buy
some. Caroline, open your basket, and take some of these grapes, and a
few pears."
"Yes, dear papa," cried the little girl, "only pray let me look at that
old gouty farmer, who is buying at