CHAP. VII.
¶ The proper termes belonging to their worke.
THe first foundation of their worke, skilfull hony-masters do call Commosis: the second Pissoceros: the third Propolis, which lieth between those former coats and the wax of the hony combe, whereof there is so great vse in Physicke. Commosis is the first coat or crust [unspec B] of a bitter tast. Pissoceros commeth next after it, as it were a thinner course of pitch or varnish and a weaker kinde of wax, made of the more liquid and mild gum of vines and poplars. But Propolis consisteth of a more solid matter, as hauing the strength of some floures withall: how∣beit, as yet it is no ful and perfect wax, but the foundation and strengthening of the combs: and serueth as a good defence against cold, and to stop the passage of waspes and such hurtful crea∣tures as would do iniurie to the bees, for stil a strong sent it carrieth, as which, many men do vse in stead of Galbanum. After this munition done, then followeth the prouision of that which is called Erithace, some terme it Sandaracha, and others, Cerinthus. This must serue for the bees meat, whereof they are to liue whiles they worke: and found it is oftentimes, laid apart within the concauities of their combs, it being also of a bitter taste. Now this Erithace commeth of [unspec C] the Spring-dew, and the moisture issuing out of trees in manner of gum: in lesse abundance euer, when the South-west wind blows: but when it is full South, more blacke: and in the Nor∣therly constitution, far better and more red withall. Great store hereof, Bees meet with vpon Almond trees. Menecrates saith, That it is a floure foreshewing what haruest shall insue: but no man saith so besides him.