Eggs for poaching should be perfectly fresh, but not quite
new-laid; those that are about 36 hours old are the best for the
purpose. If quite new-laid, the white is so milky it is almost
impossible to set it; and, on the other hand, if the egg be at all
stale, it is equally difficult to poach it nicely. Strain some boiling
water into a deep clean frying-pan; break the egg into a cup without
damaging the yolk, and, when the water boils, remove the pan to the side
of the fire, and gently slip the egg into it. Place the pan over a
gentle fire, and keep the water simmering until the white looks nicelyset, when the egg is ready.