While considerable animosity and criticism generally existed between British and French societies throughout the 18th century, the British - especially the middle and upper classes - were very fond of French cuisine with its extravagant flavors and ingredients. Clermont's cookbook, The Professed Cook, is an 18th century translation of the popular French cookbook, Les Soupers de la Cour, or The Court Dinners. This book provides interesting insight into the influence of the French upon English cuisine.