SPRINKLE Sliced strawberries with 1/4 cup sugar.  Combine remaining 1-1/2 cups sugar and cornstarch in a large saucepan over medium heat.  Gradually whisk in egg yolks and milk; cook milk mixture, whisking ofter, 12 minutes or until thickened.  Bring milk mixture to a boil, and cook, stirring constantly, 1 minute.  Remove mixture from heat; stir in butter and vanilla extract.  Cover and chil 6 hours.

SPOON half of the custard into 6 parfait glasses; top with half sliced (drained well) strawberries and 3 mergines.  Repear layers ending with 1 Meringue on tope of each serving.  

Merginues:  BEAT egg whites at medium speed until foamy; add cream of tartar and almond extract, beating until blended.  Gradually add sugar beating until stiff peaks form and sugar dissolves.

PIP or spread into small 22 inch circle onto a parchment lined baking sheet.

Bake at 200 for 2 hours.  Turn off oven, let stand in closed over with light on 8 hours.