CHAP. II VILLA GARDENING 321 



the berries, for the skin of the Grape in its young state is very 

 delicate and shows the least touch, sometimes in the form of rust 

 on the outer cuticle, which cUngs to the berries aU through their 

 growth and afterwards does not dejDart from them. The berries 

 should not be handled, especially by those having sweaty hands, 

 neither should they be touched with tlie hair or cap or anything 

 warm ; in fact, to have tlie Grapes in the highest possible condition 

 they should not be touched at all. A small bit of smooth stick 

 may be taken in the left hand, and the scissors in the right. The 

 little stick can be used to elevate the shoulders or parts of the 

 bunch to bring it into position for the right hand to operate upon 

 with the scissors. Sometimes a clean, soft kid-glove is used on 

 the left hand. 



Colour and Flavour. — These are usually combined when 

 the fruit is in perfect condition. If one is absent or only imper- 

 fectly represented the others are generally deficient. For instance, 

 if there is good colour and bloom there is nearly always very fine 

 flavour, because the presence of colour and bloom denotes high 

 finish, and flavour is present as a matter of course. The word 

 "condition" as applied to man or animal is a very expressive 

 term, and is as full of meaning when applied to plants. Condition 

 as applied to vines means perfect health ; but a vine may be in 

 perfect condition and yet the Grapes, if unskilfully treated, may 

 lack colour and bloom. To put colour on Black Grapes requires a 

 buoyant atmosphere night and day. To meet this want, as soon 

 as the first berry begins to change, the night ventilation is increased, 

 using a little more fire-heat at first to prevent any sudden drop in 

 the temperature. Black Grapes will lay on colour and bloom 

 under a dense covering of foliage ; indeed, they do not colour well 

 without a fair screen of leaves to shelter them from the fierce rays 

 of the sun. On the other hand, what are called White Grapes 

 require exposure to the sun to get that glowing amber tint so much 

 desired. The bloom of Black Grapes is the most difficult thing 

 to define, though it may be summed up in the one word " finish." 

 No one can say what particidar mode of treatment has produced 

 it ; and when displaced (which a mere touch will do) nothing can 

 restore it again. 



CHAPTER II 



The Late Vinery. — A span-roofed house will be suitable for 

 late work ; but whether it be a lean-to or a span-roof it should be 

 as roomy as possible, or as the requirements demand. There will 



Y 



