This section is from the book "The Modern Housewife Or Menagere", by Alexis Soyer. Also available from Amazon: The Modern Housewife Or Menagere.
My dear Hortense, - Never were you inspired by a better idea respecting your new plan: it is so clearly explained, that I fancy our labor is over; but I must tell you that, on the receipt of your last, I wrote to M. Soyer, to inquire if he would object to our taking a few hints from Ins "Kitchen at Home," winch forms the last part of his work. His answer was immediate, short, and as follows:
"Dear Madam, - It would be entirely deviating from the preface of my 'Gastronomic Regenerator' to refuse you anything in my power; and as your simple demand lies within that scope, you are quite welcome to take a few hints, if you require them for your little work, from the part entitled ' My Kitchen at Home.'
"Wishing your exertions may be well appreciated, I am, dear madam, most sincerely, your humble and devoted,
" Reform Club. A. Soyer."
As you have his book, you, no doubt, know to which part he alludes. He says, in his preface, that he has made it a rule never to refuse ladies anything in his power ; so far he has kept his word with us: so you may, dearest, if you require, make use of his offer. I shall expect, by the next post, the commencement of the Dinner Receipts, which 1 am confident you will make as simple and as short as possible. With kindest regards, yours,
Eloise.
 
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