A simple, dainty dessert makes a pleasant finish to a meal, and often furnishes just the necessary amount of sweet food. Children especially, crave sweets, and when allowed a dessert with their dinner will not be so apt to eat candy, etc., between meals. Custards, blanc-manges, fruit puddings, fruit sauces, etc., are especially wholesome for them.

Pie is digestible or not, as it is well or badly made. There are many simple pies which can be eaten with impunity, while others are quite indigestible. Pies should be used sparingly, especially in a family where there are growing children.

The richer puddings, too, are not wholesome. We cannot advocate plum puddings, mince pies, etc., although we give some receipts for the same for those who are willing to defy the laws of hygiene to the extent of vising them. They are the simplest receipts for such dishes, which is the best we can do toward making the use of them harmless.