256 HISTORY OK FRUITS. 



in Rome is that named Duracina, from the solid sub- 

 stance of the meat ; which seems to agree with the quality 

 of the nectarine, the principal distinction of which, from 

 other peaches, consists in the firmness and fineness of its 

 pulp, its superior flavour, and smooth skin. 



There have been many instances of nectarines having 

 grown not only on peach trees, but on branches bearing 

 both peaches and nectarines, without either budding or 

 grafting. Whether this is owing to its being so nearly 

 allied to the peach, or by the pollen of the nectarine 

 being conveyed by the bees or the wind, we have not yet 

 been able to ascertain, although this circumstance has oc- 

 curred in the gardens of persons eminent for their know- 

 ledge of fruits, as Mr. Wilmot, of Isleworth ; James 

 Wyatt, Esq., Hounslow ; William Gilpin, Esq., East 

 Sheen ; and in the garden of the Earl of Lanesborough, 

 Yorkshire. Having, however, observed that the fruit of the 

 vegetable marrow has been changed in the same manner 

 when growing with cucumbers, we are confirmed in the 

 opinion that it is owing to the accidental impregnation of 

 the blossom. This fruit is generally esteemed more 

 wholesome than the peach, as it is more delicious in fla- 

 vour, but like other watery fruits is best before meals. 



Thomson has beautifully distinguished it from the com- 

 mon peach in his Seasons : 



-As I steal along the sunny wall, 



Where autumn basks with fruit empurpled deep, 

 My pleasing theme continual prompts my thought ; 

 Presents the downy peach, the sinning plum, 

 The ruddy, fragrant nectarine : and, dark 

 Beneath his ample leaf, the luscious fig. 



But it is only when in fruit that the tree can well be dis- 

 tinguished from the peach, of which it is evidently only a 

 variety. The favourite kinds of nectarines are Fairchild's 



