Gawd Steve, that was no typical blow! And I don't think I could stand six or seven of those in one winter! Winds gusting to 80mph, our power off for six hours, and most serious of all MY ICE CREAM MELTED IN THE FREEZER!!!!!!!
Peered outside early this morning, and lots of debris lying around in our small street. Our neighbours' large shed roof open to the skies, and branches everywhere. Luckily (huge sigh of relief) our greenhouse is still intact. And none of our windows blew in.
I was amused to read you (like us) give away tons of Bramleys to neighbours every year. There's a constant stream of visitors here in September bearing carrier bags. We don't mind, as we can't possibly use the tons and tons of apples the tree produces. Even the windfalls disappear. Norfolk folk are thrifty.
I only boil the apples for a minute or two, in a really tiny drop of water, and strain off any liquid that comes out, before mashing lightly.
Loved your idea of Pliny the Younger and Pliny the Elder! :)