The Wisdom of the Ages

In 1530, the esteemed scholar Desiderius Erasmus dispensed advice:

"Some teach that boys should keep in the gas of their bellies by compressing their hindquarters. But it is not civil to become ill while you are trying to seem polite. If it is possible to leave, let him do it alone, but if not, follow the ancient proverb: Hide the fart with a cough." 

—De civilitate morum puerilium

Via Ask the Past.