Quinces

In an old family memorandum-book, I find the following curious entry: "Sept. 15. 1725. My Father Mr. —— —— brought my mother home to my grandfather's house, and the wedding dinner was kept there on Monday, Sept. 20., with all the family, and Mr. —— and Mr. —— and his wife were present. "In the Evening my Honoured Grandfather gave all his Children a serious admonition to live in Love and Charity ... and afterwards gave his wife a present of some *Quinces*, and to his sister ——, and every Son and Daughter, Son in Law and Daughter in Law, Five Guineas each." The last-named gift consisted of gold…