vintage postcards
It was custom in rural England up to the 18th century to knock on the resident beehive after a death. The little honey makers were ensured that they were welcome to stay and solemnly advised not to follow their owner.
To neglect the custom was to risk the bees abandoning their hives, never to return! This vintage postcard gentleman is certainly overdoing it on the protective gear!
When were you first stung by a bee?