_Snail-eating._--Perhaps you will permit me to remark, in reference to the
communication of C. W. B., that snails are taken medicinally occasionally,
and are supposed to be extremely strengthening. I have known them eagerly
sought after for the meal of a consumptive patient. As a matter of taste,
too, they are by {222} some considered quite epicurean. A gentleman whom I
used to know, was in the constant habit as he passed through the fields, of
picking up the white slugs that lay in his way, and swallowing them with
more relish than he would have done had they been oysters.
That snails make a no inconsiderable item in the bill of fare of gypsies,
and other wanderers, I proved while at Oxford, some time ago; for passing
up Shotover Hill, in the parish of Headington, I unexpectedly came upon a
camp of gypsies who were seated round a wood fire enjoying their Sunday's
dinner: this consisted of a considerable number of large snails roasted on
the embers, and potatoes similarly cooked. On inquiry, I was told by those
who were enjoying their repast, that they were extremely good, and were
much liked by people of their class, who made a constant practice of eating
them. I need hardly say that I received a most hospitable invitation to
join in the feast, which I certainly declined.