286 
SUMMER. 
get at the^strengtb, and cold water constantly applied. 
To cure the smart, the application of tobacco is strong- 
ly urged, and cold water is spoken of with equal 
favor to prevent the swelling. 
When stung in the throat, drinking often of salt 
and water is said will prevent serious consequences. 
Whether any of these remedies are applied or not, 
I suppose it is unnecessary to say that the sting should 
be pulled out as soon as practicable. 
CHAPTER XIX. 
ENEMIES OF BEES. 
Among the enemies of bees, there are included 
rats, mice, birds, toads, and insects. 
ARE THEY ALL GUILTY ? 
But some of these are probably clear of any actual 
mischief. I strongly suspect that the spirit of destruc- 
tiveness with many people is altogether too active. 
There are some farmers, with this principle predomi- 
nant, so short-sighted, that if it was in their power 
they would destroy a whole 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 devouring worms, insects, 
&c., that would otherwise have destroyed entire crops 1 
It will be well, therefore, before condemnation, to see 
if on the whole we are to be gainers or losers by an in- 
discriminate slaughter, without judge or jury. 
