A. Because the heat of the water flies off so quickly through the dull black surface of the tea-pot, that the water is rapidly cooled, and will not “draw” the tea.
Q. Do not pensioners, and most aged cottagers, prefer the little black earthen tea-pot to the bright metal one?
A. Yes; because they set it on the hob “to draw;” in which case, the little black tea-pot will make the best tea.
Q. Why will a black tea-pot make better tea than a bright metal one, if it be set upon the hob to draw?
A. Because the black tea-pot will absorb heat plentifully from the fire, and keep the water boiling hot: whereas, a bright metal tea-pot (set upon the hob) would throw off the heat by reflection.
Q. Then sometimes a black earthen tea-pot is the best, and sometimes a bright metal one?
A. Yes; when the tea-pot is set on the hob “to draw,” the black earth is the best, because it absorbs heat: but when the tea-pot is not set on the hob, the bright metal is the best, because it radiates heat very slowly, and therefore keeps the water hot.
Q. Why does a saucepan which has been used, boil quicker than a new one?
A. Because the bottom and back are covered with soot; and the black soot rapidly absorbs the heat of the glowing coals.
Q. Why should the front and lid of a saucepan be clean and bright?