“But we can,” urged Jane. “How can an old person like you be supposed to understand the latest contrivances of the age? We can slice the tomatoes and put them in layers in a jam pot with the oil, vinegar, chopped parsley and onion, and tie the whole down. It will stand up quite well in a corner of the hamper, and will not upset.”
“Bravo, Jenny, we will certainly have one. Is that your own idea?”
“It is my own idea, and I intend to patent it,” said Jane, with dignity, “so please see that you do not infringe my rights. Now one of you can suggest a suitable sweet.”
“It is rather difficult,” said Marion. “Shapes pack so badly, and pastry is apt to crumble. Jelly has an unfortunate habit of turning into soup just when it is wanted.”
“Perhaps it will be better to stick to fresh fruit,” said Ada.
“We must have something else,” said Marion meditatively. “How would it be if we took the materials for a Cicely pudding? It only takes a few minutes to make.”
This suggestion met with warm approval from the two others, for the Cicely pudding was an old favourite, the brilliant invention of a mutual friend in the country; but for the recipe thereof the gentle reader must be content to wait awhile.
“Very well,” said Jenny, “Marion shall make the Cicely pudding, and I will make the tomato salad. What will Ada do?”
“Make the sandwiches,” said Ada promptly. “There must be sandwiches, some of anchovy and hard-boiled egg, and some of cucumber.”
“Shall I order a sandwich loaf?” asked Marion.