378 FIRST FORMS OF VEGETATION. 
There are at least forty kinds of esculent fungi 
in Great Britain which may be safely used at table, 
and are as good, if not better, than the common _ 
mushroom, which appears to be the only species 
whose merits are at all appreciated. Agaricus 
gambosus or St. George’s mushroom, so called from 
its usually appearing in this country as early as 
St. George’s day—about the beginning of May— 
though generally rejected by housekeepers in the 
country as unwholesome, is frequently sold in 
London, under the name of Whitecaps. The 
flavour, however, is far inferior to that of the 
common mushroom ; its smell is strong and un- 
pleasant, and it is little fit for making ketchup, 
having but a small quantity of juice, and that not 
of a good colour. It grows to an enormous size, 
frequently attaining forty inches in circumference, 
and weighing many pounds. It is easily known 
by its white pileus and gills, slightly stained with 
yellow when bruised. In France it is known by 
its white colour as the Boule-de-neige. In France 
and Italy it is so highly prized that when dried 
it will realize from twelve to fifteen shillings per 
pound. There is another fungus frequently sold 
in Covent Garden market under the name of 
Blewitts, whose taste is very agreeable. This is 
the Agaricus personatus, occurring abundantly in 
old pastures during the winter months, and often 
