The Sterley’s of Oakland Park Chapter 40 (Sampler Chapter) Blog Entry No 2
“I am without a doubt the best savory’s maker that I know do you not think?” asked Mrs. James. “Indeed my wife is a dab hand at the making of sweet meat,” said the clergyman. “You must try my pigeon pie, said Mrs. James as she lifted the silver cover from the dish upon which lay a plump bird in a layer of congealed grave. “ It looks wonderful I shall have a piece,” said Sophia.
The reverend gentleman’s guests sat down to eat captain Aubrey having decided to forego the offered pigeon as he had heard much of Mrs. James’s custard pudding which was to be served later. In the meantime, he contented himself with a glass of port.
“I have seldom seen a dish with an aroma of such fragrance, said Sophia “ pray do tell me Mrs. James what is this fragrance for I have not come across it before?” asked Sophia as she placed the first forkful in her mouth.
“It is a Calcutta curry from India somewhat different to the fair we are used to, bit wholesome and good for a cold,” said Mrs. James. Sophia it seemed had grown quite flushed tears creased the corners of her eyes and a sweat broke upon her forehead.
“I fear that I am unwell,” she gasped, taking a sip of water from a glass near at hand. “Oh dear what is amiss Mrs. Aubrey you are quite red with exertion you must lay down I fear” said Mrs. James rising from her seat.
“Yes if I lay down I will recover,” said Sophia “Yes step this way there is a room where you can rest,” said Mrs. James “Later you can finish your dinner. I am quite surprised for just a moment ago you were quite well could it be that you have a little bundle to deliver?” asked Mrs. James. For she was a woman wise to the world and knew that young woman of Sophia’s age did with in a year after marriage bring forth bundles of joy. It gave her great pride that when in years to come the Captain would speak of the announcement of the arrival of their first-born would be
The Sarejessian 
LOL !
I remember this chapter very well, Tim.
And the effects Mrs. James’ cooking had on her guests.
And the fact that the Rev. Mr. James had managed to live all these years on his wife’s cooking was proof positive of the existence of God.
And your description of Mrs. James as “if she had been a cook in Lord Nelson’s Royal Navy, she’d have been the most formidable weapon in Napoleon’s arsenal.”
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He was indeed supernatural y blessed
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