FOR PROFIT. 183 



but the same principle can be observed even in exist- 

 ing stores, which is— simply gather the fruit with 

 care, store only perfect examples, keep the fruit in 

 the dark, and never let the stores be too dry, or 

 allow frost to enter. Cultivators must also test new 

 and improved varieties, and when found to suit their 

 soil, embark in them largely. Many will not plant 

 less than 300 of any variety. I am not hopeful of 

 the progress of evaporated (dried) and crystalised fruit 

 in this country, nor do I think that apple rings are 

 likely to pay the producer. 



It must be remembered that the Prunes of the 

 Continent are really partially dried and prepared on 

 the trees, in consequence of greater sunshine ; and in 

 such drying experiments as I have witnessed, even 

 our large Plums come out of the ordeal — to use a 

 common expression — all skin and bone. 



Growers, too, must look further afield for market 

 outlets, and I feel that the system of sending such 

 huge bulks to London markets, only to be transhipped 

 to other cities and towns, is doomed. Our largest 

 growers pack their fruit, to suit distant markecs, in 

 baskets, barrels, or cases, as the particular district 

 affects, and send it direct from their local stations 

 instead of to London first, and thus make the best 

 prices. It is obvious to all that there is neither time 

 nor space in the large London markets to deal with 

 the vast quantity that is sent there in busy seasons. 



These remarks, however, are in no way intended to 

 disparage London markets or London salesmen who 

 do their very best for clients ; but the course indicated 

 may save those gluts of produce in the London market, 

 and prevent lowest prices. London will always be 



