382 VEGETABLE SUBSTANCES. 



prized, very abundant in the West India markets, 

 and accounted one of the best native fruits they 

 have. The mammee was found by Don in the vici- 

 nity of Sierra Leone; but whether native there, or 

 imported from America, cannot be ascertained. It 

 was introduced into England in 1 735. 



THE ALLIGATOR PEAR Laurus Persea. 



The Avocado, or Alligator Pear, grows upon a 

 tree about the size of the common apple. It is a 

 native of the West Indies. The leaves are oblong 

 and veiny, the flowers of a yellowish green colour, 

 and the fruit, which is the size of a large pear, is 

 considered the most delicious in the world. It con- 

 tains a kernel, inclosed in a soft rind; and the yellow 

 pulp, which is firm, has a delicate rich flavour of 

 the peach, but infinitely more grateful. It is some- 

 times called Vegetable Marrow, and is eaten with 

 pepper and salt. It appears necessary, on account 

 of the richness of the pulp, to apply some spice or 

 acid, and thus lime-juice is also frequently added to 



