More on defense against stinging:

> Before he handle the Hives, he shall be well advised, that the day before he have not had to deal with his wife; that he have not been drunken; and that for the present he come not near unto them, without being washed, made clean, and well appareled; in like manner he must abstain from all meats that are of a strong smell, as are all salt meats, and soused meats, and all things being strong of scent, as Garlic, or Onions, or such like things: and contrariwise, let him carry in his mouth something that hath a good smell; for by this means they will love him so well, as that he may handle their Hives at his pleasure, and the little pretty birds will never hurt or annoy him. 

Gervase Markham, London, 1616

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