Wash artichokes; remove discolored outer leaves; cut off stem about 1/2 inch below base of leaves. Drop in rapidly boiling, salted water to cover. Cook, uncovered, for 25 to 40 minutes or until tender; drain upside down. Serve whole or in half with individual dishes of Merritt Dressing. To eat: Pull off a leaf; dip large end in Merritt Special Dressing, and eat only the white fleshy part, discarding the rest.

MARY MERRITT SPECIAL DRESSING:

For 4 people: 4 tsp. mustard 5 tsp. mayonnaise 4 tsp. tomato ketchup 4 drops Tabasco sauce 8 tsp. Wesson oil 4 tsp. white vinegar 4 tsp. Worcestershire sauce

Mix well. Enjoy.