The medlar and the sorb[1931] ought in propriety to be ranked under the head of the apple and the pear. Of the medlar[1932] there are three varieties, the anthedon,[1933] the setania,[1934] and a third of inferior quality, which bears a stronger resemblance to the anthedon, and is known as the Gallic[1935] kind. The setania is the largest fruit, and the palest in colour; the woody seed in the inside of it is softer, too, than in the others, which are of smaller size than the setania, but superior to it in the fragrance of their smell, and in being better keepers. The tree itself is one of very ample[1936] dimensions: the leaves turn red before they fall: the roots are numerous, and penetrate remarkably deep, which renders it almost impossible to grub it up. This tree[1937] did not exist in Italy in Cato’s time. CHAP. 23. (21).—FOUR VARIETIES OF THE SORB. There are four varieties of the sorb: there being some that have all the roundness[1938] of the apple, while others are conical like the pear,[1939] and a third sort are of an oval[1940] shape, like some of the apples: these last, however, are apt to be remarkably acid. The round kind is the best for fragrance and sweetness, the others having a vinous flavour; the finest, however, are those which have the stalk surrounded with tender leaves. A fourth kind is known by the name of “torminalis:”[1941] it is only employed, however, for remedial purposes. The tree is a good bearer, but does not resemble the other kinds, the leaf being nearly that of the plane-tree; the fruit, too, is particularly small. Cato[1942] speaks of sorbs being preserved in boiled wine. CHAP. 24. (22.)—NINE VARIETIES OF THE NUT.