Green Tunnels

"In the Italian gardens of the thirteenth century...." Mr. Buzzacott interrupted himself to take another helping of the risotto which was being offered him. "Excellent risotto this," he observed. "Nobody who was not born in Milan can make it properly. So they say." "So they say," Mr. Topes repeated in his sad, apologetic voice, and helped himself in his turn. "Personally," said Mrs. Topes, with decision, "I find all Italian cooking abominable. I don't like the oil-especially hot. No, thank you." She recoiled from the proffered dish.