Full-throttle coal scuttle

Bunches of fragrant lavender and heather flowers were blackened and sooty with the dark dust from a coal skuttle. Packed beneath we discovered smoked ham, glazed with honey, and grilled peaches arranged beside dairy fudge. Then chillies and ginger chocolate danced around the edge, making way for chunks of barbecued butterscotch. A little water softened the delivery. Ripe honeydew melons now emerged, wrapped in floral-scented bed sheets. The tongue was caressed by gentle herbal teas, merging chamomile and verbena with smoky lapsang souchong. Hickory-smoked butter finally arrived, spread over charred hot cross buns with a carefree abundance, and served with sweet and spicy roasted peanuts.