M&D p.71 -- Ketjap

[Paul Murphy]

****Mason & Dixon spoiler****

Not much of a spoiler, but this is in response to the question of
anachronism raised with respect to the discussion of *Ketjap* on p.71.
According to the on-line OED, 'ketchup' entered the English language in
1711; Chinese *koechiap*, Malay *kechap*, Dutch *ketjap*.
Since Mason and Dixon are conversing about the 'Malay' food they're eating
while sojourning in Dutch-speaking South Africa, the term seems
historically accurate -- I'm no historian of condiments, but I imagine the
18th century spice trade would allow for the appearance of Indonesian
Ketjap (which one can still find in just about any present-day Dutch
supermarket) in the place and time TRP is describing.

Cheers,
Paul