Cakes & Ale is a delightful exploration of the cultural significance of food and drink, interwoven with a collection of mouthwatering recipes and entertaining anecdotes. Written by Edward Spencer, this dissertation on banquets is both informative and engaging, offering a unique perspective on the role of food in society.

Spencer's writing is witty and charming, drawing the reader in with his humorous storytelling and infectious love for good food. The recipes included in the book are a mix of traditional favorites and inventive creations, all of which are sure to tantalize the taste buds and inspire readers to get into the kitchen.

One of the standout features of Cakes & Ale is its blend of history and personal insight. Spencer delves into the origins of various dishes and drinks, shedding light on their cultural significance and evolution over time. His anecdotes, while sometimes quirky, add a personal touch to the book and make for an enjoyable read.

Overall, Cakes & Ale is a delightful and informative read for anyone with a love of food and dining. Spencer's passion for the subject is evident on every page, making this book a must-read for food enthusiasts and armchair historians alike.

Book Description:
A long time ago, an estimable lady fell at the feet of an habitual publisher, and prayed unto him:—

“Give, oh! give me the subject of a book for which the world has a need, and I will write it for you.”

“Are you an author, madam?” asked the publisher, motioning his visitor to a seat.

“No, sir,” was the proud reply, “I am a poet.”

“Ah!” said the great man. “I am afraid there is no immediate worldly need of a poet. If you could only write a good cookery book, now! ... What I want,” said the publisher, “is a series of essays on food, a few anecdotes of stirring adventure—you have a fine flow of imagination, I understand—and a few useful, but uncommon recipes. But plenty of plums in the book, my dear sir, plenty of plums.”

“But, suppose my own supply of plums should not hold out, what am I to do?”

“What do you do—what does the cook do, when the plums for her pudding run short? Get some more; the Museum, my dear sir, the great storehouse of national literature, is free to all whose character is above the normal standard. When your memory and imagination fail, try the British Museum. You know what is a mightier factor than both sword and pen? Precisely so. And remember that in replenishing your store from the works of those who have gone before, you are only following in their footsteps. I only bar Sydney Smith and Charles Lamb. Let me have the script by Christmas—d’you smoke?—mind the step—good morning.”

In this way, gentle reader, were the trenches dug, the saps laid for the attack of the great work.