I went back to the wharf, and informed Captain Blastblow of the wishes of the party. Up the River Oliver Optic. She was repaired by his own carpenters, and laid up at Hanaroora, along side a wharf built for the purpose.
Palate cleansers are to remove lingering flavors from the mouth so that the next course may be enjoyed with a fresh perspective. The French also use them as an all-important digestive, to avoid heartburn, indigestion and to stimulate the appetite.
If the nut shell is watertight, the water will not be absorbed. Slitting the nut shell allows water to get in, but the most noticeable effect is to sharpen the astringent flavor of the skin of the nut, making peeling absolutely mandatory. Note that unsoaked, raw peeled nuts have a very sweet, agreeable flavor.