According to Erasmus (c.1530) these are a few etiquette tips we should remember:

"Turn away when spitting lest your saliva fall on someone.  If anything purulent falls on the ground, it should be trodden upon, lest it nauseate someone."

"To lick greasy fingers or to wipe them on your coat is impolite.  It is better to use the tablecloth or the serviette."

"Some people put their hands in the dishes the moment they have sat down.  Wolves do that."

"You should not offer your handkerchief to anyone unless it has been freshly washed.  Nor is it seemly, after wiping your nose, to spread out your handkerchief and peer into it as if pearl and rubies might have fallen out of your head."

"Retain the wind by compressing the belly."

"Do not be afraid of vomiting, if you must; for it is not vomiting but holding the vomit in your throat that is foul."

"If you cannot swallow a piece of food, turn around discreetly and throw it somewhere."

"Do not move back and forth on your chair.  Whoever does that give the impression of constantly breaking or trying to break wind."

What can I say?  Pure genius! 

From "Healthy Foods", by Leanne Ely, C.N.C.  More on this book to come!