58 EDIBLE AND POISONOUS MUSHROOMS. 



when in its prime, and before the gills 

 turn black. It will sometimes be found 

 by roadsides, and even in pastures, and is 

 tender and delicious cooked in any way. 

 The cap and stem is occasionally eight or 

 nine inches high, not uncommonly five or 

 six, and, as there is nothing else which 

 resembles it, there can be little doubt or 

 hesitation in eating it, for even children can 

 soon distinguish it. It is apt to be gritty 

 unless wiped clean before cooking ; when 

 it is too ripe for this purpose, it may 

 still be converted into excellent ketchup, 

 far superior to much that is sold under 

 that name. It is deservedly a favourite 

 with every one who summons the courage 

 to test its edible qualities. 



