"All our fruits originally came from abroad," said Mr. Durnford, "but we have improved upon them, although our climate is not sufficiently warm to bring them to that perfection, which is the boast of the Southern nations. The pineapple, which you know is a most delicious fruit, comes from the West Indies, but we have excellent pineries in England, as well as fine melons. They also are natives of both the Indies. Our finest pears are from France, oranges, nuts, almonds, olives, grapes, chestnuts, pomegranates, lemons, and prunes, all come from the South of Europe. Oranges originally came from China. We do not know the real flavour of an orange in this country, as they are pulled long before they are ripe, and sent over here to be purchased by the fruit merchants. Some of these look very good, therefore we will buy some. Caroline, open your basket, and take some of these grapes, and a few pears." "Yes, dear papa," cried the little girl, "only pray let me look at that old gouty farmer, who is buying at THE HOSIER'S, [Illustration: _Hosier_] those nice warm stockings. What are they called, papa, I have seen them at my grandfather's." "They are called Lambs'-wool stockings, my dear, and are particularly serviceable to the aged and infirm. The old gentleman looks as if he was reckoning up his money, that he may know whether his purse will allow of his indulging himself with more than one pair of his favourite Lambs'-wool stockings. Let us look at some white silk.--Silk you know is imported from Italy, it is produced by a worm which feeds on the leaves of the mulberry-tree. Cotton is imported from Asia, of which we make our fine cotton stockings. The wool of sheep supplies us with worsted stockings, the chief wear of the working classes of men, and the skins of animals give us that necessary finish to our dress, gloves. The best and handsomest of this latter article are made in France, but are prohibited from being sold in England, that they may not injure our own manufactures." "Let us now examine the beauties of the SCULPTOR," [Illustration: _Sculptor_]