238 ICXBJtIES OF BEES. 



For a number of years, I have used none whatever for 

 myself, and the effect is no worse, nor even as bad as for- 

 merly. (It is said that this is because the system is hard- 

 ened to the effects of the poison.) Among the remedies 

 i-ecoramended, are saleratus and water, salt and watei", 

 soft-soap and salt, a raw onion cut in two and one-half ap- 

 plied, mud or clay mixed wet and changed often, tobacco 

 wet and thoroughly rubbed to get the strength, and con- 

 stant applications of cold water. To allay the smarting, 

 the application of tobacco is strongly urged, and cold wa- 

 ter is spoken of with equal favor to prevent the swelling. 



When stung in the throat, drinking often of salt and 

 water is said to prevent serious consequences. 



Whether any of these remedies are applied or not, it is 

 hardly necessary to say that the sting should be pulled out 

 as, soon as practicable. 



CHAPTER XVI. 



ENEMIES OF BEES. 



Among the enemies of bees, are included rats, mice, 

 birds, toads and insects. But some of these are probably 

 not guilty of any actual mischief. I strongly suspect that 

 the spirit of destructiveness is altogether too active in 

 many people. There are some farmers, so short sighted 

 and vindictive, that, were it in their power, they would 

 destroy a vi^hole class of birds, because some of them had 

 picked a few cherries, or dug out a few hills of corn, when, at 

 the same time, they are indebted to their activity in devour- 

 ing worms, insects, etc., that would otherwise have 

 destroyed entire crops. It will be well, therefore, to see 

 if we are to be losers or gainers by an indiscriminate 

 slaughter, before we pass sentence on these reputed pests. 



