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Essence of Spruce

Take of the young branches of black spruce (abies nigra), make a decoction with water (see No. 34) and evaporate to the consistence of molasses.

This is used for fabricating spruce beer-a right pleasant drink when it is fresh. sugar, 1 ounce best unbleached Jamaica ginger well bruised, ounce cream of tartar and 2 lemons sliced; stir the ingredients frequently in a covered vessel until lukewarm; then add 1 or 2 ounces yeast, and keep it in a moderately warm place so as to excite a brisk fermentation; the next day rack and strain through flannel; let it work for a day or two, then strain it again and bottle, wiring down the corks.