264 
CERASUS VULGARIS. 
fresh from the trees, when drenched with the morning dew, and the stones being 
also swallowed, will purge effectually, and cure those afflicted with the gout in 
their feet. The hard-fleshed cherries are considered rather indigestible when 
eaten too freely ; but the soft-fleshed kinds, such as the morellos, are esteemed 
sufficiently wholesome to be given in fevers, where there is a tendency to putri- 
dity. The soft-fleshed kinds are often dried, by being exposed on boards to the 
sun, or in an oven of moderate warmth. Ripe cherries are used for flavouring 
brandy ; and preserves, marmalades, lozenges, and various other kinds of confec- 
tionary are manufactured from them. An oil is extracted from the kernels, 
which is occasionally used for emulsions, and to mix in creams, sugar-plums, 
etc., to impart to them the flavour of bitter almonds. 
Judiciously planted in the shrubbery, the Cerasus vulgaris forms a very beau- 
tiful tree. In spring, its early white blossoms are contrasted with the sombre 
shades of green ; and its graceful ruby and variegated balls, give a pleasing 
variety in summer. 
