This country affords herbs much more wholesome than either tea or
coffee, and if they were all imported from a distant region, and sold
at a high price, they would, no doubt, be held in great estimation.
The following composition is very superior to tea or coffee, inasmuch
as the infusion is very agreeable, will strengthen the stomach, and
invigorate, instead of debilitate, the nervous system.
Take of rosemary leaves, dried, 2 oz.
sage do. do. 4 oz.
rose do. do. 4 oz.
peach do. do. 3 oz.
hyssop do. do. 4 oz.
balm do. do. 5 oz.
male speedwell, (veronica) 4 oz.
A wine-glassful of these mixed herbs is sufficient to make 3 pints
of infusion, which is made in the same manner as tea, sugar and milk
being added. In London, where herbs are sold at a dearer rate than in
the country, it may be obtained at the rate of 2s. per pound.—Either
of the above ingredients may be diminished or augmented at pleasure.
If too bitter, lessen the quantity of hyssop, and add dried mint
leaves.
ISINGLASS JELLY, &c.
Put an ounce of isinglass, and a few cloves, into a quart of water.
Boil it down to a pint, strain it upon a pound of loaf sugar, and
when cold, add a little wine, when it will be fit for use.—A very
nourishing beverage may be made by merely boiling the isinglass with
milk, and sweetening with lump sugar.