230 THE PEACH. 



Some varieties have the flesh cling firmly to the seed; while 

 others open freely and separate the flesh from the seed per- 

 fectly. There are a few others which neither cling perfectly 

 nor separate easily. There is also considerable variation in 

 the quality of this fine fruit on the same tree; that being best 

 which is most exposed to the sun and air. These are some of 

 the peculiarities of this juicy, luscious and most delicious 

 fruit. 



USES OF THE FKUIT. 



The peach, as it regards its melting lusciousness of taste 

 and beauty of appearance, excels all the fruits of the earth. 

 It has been aptly said that "no fruit this side of Paradise" 

 can successfully rival the blushing cheek and nectared juices 

 of some of our fine varieties. Its delicious, refreshing pulp 

 is always in demand when uncooked, or, when cooked, it 

 affords the most elegant and wholesome culinary material and 

 delicious dessert dishes. 



The fruit, when perfectly ripened on the tree, and eaten 

 when fresh and plump, is very nourishing, and can be indulged 

 in with impunity, almost to depletion, without disagreeable re- 

 sults. It is nourishing, diuretic, slightly laxative, and has 

 other delicate and fine medicinal qualities. In pies, it is espe- 

 cially fine, superb — nothing of the sort can be better. Raw 

 peaches, with a little crushed sugar, are not to be despised — 

 maple sugar, peaches, and cream is a dessert for the gods. 



Though somewhat transient in their fresh state, peaches 

 may be carried in ice to distant parts of the world in a fine, 

 sound condition — and, when dried, they can be kept in any 

 climate, and carried to any distance. In locations distant 

 from market, they may be converted into the finest brandy for 

 medicinal and other purposes; and where they cannot be put 

 early into the market, they may be largely cultivated for the 

 purpose of drying, and sent to market whenever desired. 

 Dried peaches are now (April, 1870,) selling at Richmond at 

 13 to 15 cents per pound, peeled; unpeeled, from 7 to 9 

 cents. At Norfolk,, peeled, --15 to 17 ; unpeeled, 10 to 12 

 cents. Lynchburg, peeled, 12 to 14 cents; unpeeled, 8 to 



