Libra

September 23 - October 22

The airy sign of the Scales is ruled by Venus, the partnership planet of harmony and peaceful relations. Librans are lovers of culture and are always interested in how the other half thinks, weighing pros and cons on their scales of justice and seeking compromise. Often they play Devil's Advocate and can be quite argumentative in arriving at a balanced view. Known as 'Lazy Libra', they sometimes take so long making up their minds that either nothing happens, or they miss the boat!

The Diplomats of the zodiac have refined tastes and this Rum and Raisin Chocolate Slice will satisfy their discerning eye. Set the Venusian scene of candlelight, perfume and soft music, slip into your Sunday best - and prepare yourself for a favourable verdict!

RUM & RAISIN GATEAU

Ingredients

• 175g (6oz) margarine
• 175g (6oz) castor sugar
• 2 x 15ml spoon (2tablespoons) rum
• 3 eggs 175g (6oz) self-raising flour
• grated rind and juice of one orange
• 175g (6oz) raisins

Filling and decoration

• ¼ pint of double cream
• 2 x 15ml spoons (2 tablespoons) rum
• grated rind of one orange
• 1x 15ml spoon (1 tablespoon) castor sugar
• 1 orange sliced

Method of preparation

Beat the margarine with the sugar and rum until pale and fluffy.

Gradually beat in eggs and fold in sieved flour. Carefully stir in the orange rind, juice and raisins. Place into a greased and lined 1kg (2lb) loaf tin and bake at 160°C, 325°F, Gas No.3 for 1½ - 1¾ hours, until browned and firm to the touch. Cool on a wire tray. To decorate the gateau, whip the cream with the rum, orange rind and castor sugar until stiff. Cover the cake completely with the cream and use a round-bladed knife to achieve a swirled surface. Arrange the orange slices on top.

© 2010 Maggie Hyde