Dear Reader,
Damsons, derived from the term "damascene plum" are the type of wild plum with origins in Western Asia, possibly near Damascus and were introduced to Britain by the Romans and later by medieval monks. The Normans significantly planted damson trees in the 12th century leading to their widespread naturalization in British hedgerows and orchards.
While once a popular fruit for jams and preserves, their popularity waned in North America due to difficult harvesting, unpredictable yields and a decline in jam consumption.
"King of Damsons" refers to King of Damsons, a variety of damson (a type of plum) known for it large,blue-black fruit, rich flavour and self-fertile nature, originating from Nottinghamshire in the late19th century. The fruit is excellent for cooking and also has a quality that allows the stone to come away cleanly from the flesh making it a freestone variety.
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From Gilbert White September 23rd 1781 in Hampshire
'Begin to light fires in the parlour.'
From William Blake September 23rd 1800 in Sussex
'The villagers of Felpham are not mere Rustics; they are polite and modest. Meat is cheaper than in London, but the sweet air and the voices of the winds, trees and birds, and the odours of the happy ground, makes it a dwelling for immortals. Work will go on here with God speed.'
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Stone
I wrapped the stone in linen cloth, the picnic I wrapped in plastic bags. We made for the river the stone and I. My arm ached with the weight. We sat on the bank, watched the river run. I fed myself tomato sandwiches, shortbread, spring water. The stone was still and silent. I fed it words. Standing up I said: “Stone you have been my life companion. My fetter, me, chained to you. Hurling you into the river will be my resurrection”* With best wishes, Patricia
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