To British centrist voters who may think some of those on offer are a few raisins short of a fruit cake, that counts as reassurance.

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But be warned: With a total of 10 eggs, five-and-a-half sticks of butter, almost two cups of bourbon, and a generous helping of candied fruit, Lane Cake is not for the faint of heart.

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The artichoke appetizer had gone awry and came second, but it was worth the wait--boiled to semi-baby-food consistency and with the season's first fava beans. (They stole the show.) I ended with a whole grilled fish and, at the urging of two guys at the next table, Paradiso's prize dessert, sponge cake with dried fruit and sweetened ricotta cheese.

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But as the participants walked down the hallway, there were refreshments available with a choice of a decadent chocolate cake, or a cup of fresh fruit.

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Complimentary extras include a full breakfast buffet each morning, in-room wi-fi, fireside tea and cake service in the lobby every afternoon and fresh fruit delivered to rooms daily.

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The study found that a majority of participants in the 7-digit group chose the cake, while a majority in the 2-digit group chose fruit.

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