Bring to the boil two tablespoonfuls each of vinegar and water. Simmer in it for ten minutes a slice of onion. Take out the onion and add the yolks of three eggs beaten very light. Take from the fire, add salt and pepper to season, and four tablespoonfuls of butter beaten to a cream. The butter should be added in small bits.
BEARNAISE SAUCE—II
Beat the yolks of five eggs, add a pinch of salt and one tablespoonful of butter. Heat in a double-boiler until it begins to thicken, then take from the fire and add two more tablespoonfuls of butter. Season with minced fine herbs and parsley and add a teaspoonful of tarragon vinegar.
BEARNAISE SAUCE—III
Beat the yolks of two eggs very light and put into a double-boiler. Add gradually three tablespoonfuls of olive-oil, then the same quantity of boiling water, then one tablespoonful of lemon-juice. Season with salt and cayenne and serve immediately.
QUICK BEARNAISE SAUCE
Beat the yolks of four eggs with four tablespoonfuls of oil and four of water. Add a cupful of boiling water and cook slowly until thick and smooth. Take from the fire, and add minced onion, capers, olives, pickles, and parsley and a little tarragon vinegar.
BÉCHAMEL SAUCE
Cook together two tablespoonfuls each of butter and flour, add two cupfuls of white stock and cook until thick, stirring constantly. Season with salt, pepper, and grated nutmeg.