South of the river again

Our Wednesday exploration began with a Metro ride to Place Monge, where a small but charming street market was in progress. We accidentally missed the Pantheon and walked down rue Mouffetard, filled with enticing food shops. Then a left turn to the imposing Grand Mosquee, and on to the Jardin des Plantes, in which we spent some hours. This is the botanic gardens of Paris so we were surprised to find plants there which we, in Australia, regard as weeds, particularly a variety of solenum with black berries.
A pleasant place to be. Tony took the opportunity to skim a Le Monde left on a bench and have a kip, while Wendy took time to observe the passersby especially the children who were enjoying the freedom of the garden.
We continued to Arenes de Lutece, a Roman arena dating from about 150, looted in the 3rd century and rediscovered and restored in the 19th. Now used as a great kids' playground and picnic area by Parisians and not well known on the tourist trail, it is a park worth a visit if you're in Paris.
Walking back towards St Paul lethargy and the warmth of the day nearly overwhelmed us but we revived as we neared the food shops of St Paul where, from the salmon shop we chose, from among many origins of smoked salmon, Shetlands, along with rollmops and blinis to accompany.
Walking along the street we saw a handsome pair of 14th century buildings which required a photo.
Nearby was the amazing Izrael deli (yes, the spelling is correct) emitting wonderful food fragrances onto the street, but we proceeded home. It will keep.
On the other hand will we be able to resist the Queen Elizabeth dolls we saw next door with hands waving appropriately and which would no doubt top off our experience of the coming royal visit!