produced from images produced by ,core ,historical ,literature in ,agriculture 7,,chla71 ,cornell ,university7 ,,mysteries ,,of ,,bee-,,keeping ,,explained3 ,,being ,a ,,complete ,,analysis ,,of ,,the ,,whole ,,subject2 ,,consisting ,,of ,,the ,,natural ,,history ,,of ,,bees1 ,,directions ,,for ,,obtaining ,,the ,,greatest ,,amount ,,of ,,pure ,,surplus ,,honey ,,with ,,the ,,least ,,possible ,,expense1 ,,remedies ,,for ,,losses ,,given1 ,,and ,,the ,,science ,,of ,,luck ,,fully ,,illustrated--,,the ,,result ,,of ,,more ,,than ,,twenty ,,years' ,,experience ,,in ,,extensive ,,apiaries4 ,,by ,m4 ,,quinby1 ,,practical ,,bee-,,keeper4 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 ,,agricultural ,,book ,,publisher #aeb ,,fulton ,,street4 #ahec4 ,entered according to the ,act of ,congress1 in the year #ahec1 by ,m4 ,,quinby1 in the ,clerk's ,office of the ,district ,court of the ,united ,states for the ,southern ,district of ,new ,york4 ,e4 ,o4 ,,jenkins1 ,,printer ,,and ,,stereotyper1 #aad ,,nassau ,,street1 ,n4 ,,york4 ,,contents4 ,,chapter ,i4 ,,brief ,,history4 ,three kinds of ,bees1 #i ,queen described1 #i ,description and ,duty of ,workers1 #aj ,description of ,drones1 #aa ,most ,brood in ,spring1 #aa ,their ,industry1 #ab ,,chapter ,,ii4 ,,hives4 ,hives to be thoroughly made1 #ac ,different opinions about them1 #ad ,the ,author has no ,patent to recommend1 #ad ,speculators supported long enough1 #ae ,prefix of ,patent a bad recommendation1 #ae ,ignorance of affairs and committees1 #ae ,opposition to simplicity1 #af ,by gaining one point produce another evil1 #af ,first ,delusion1 #ag ,chamber ,hive1 #ag ,mrs4 ,griffith's ,hive1 #ah ,weeks' ,improvement1 #ah ,inclined ,bottom-,boards do not throw out all the worms1 #ai ,objections to suspended hives1 #ai ,see bees often1 #bj ,hall's ,patent1 #ba ,jones's ,patent1 #ba ,an ,experiment1 #ba ,reason of failure in dividing hive1 #bb ,cause of starving in such hives1 #bc ,advantages of the changeable hive considered1 #bd ,variation of these hives1 #be ,expense in constructing changeable hives1 #be ,the surplus honey will contain bee-bread1 #bf ,description of ,cutting's changeable hive1 #bf ,first objection cost of construction1 #bh ,hives can be made with less expense1 #bi ,old breeding cells will last a long time1 #bi ,cells larger than necessary at first1 #cj ,expense of renewing combs1 #cj ,best to use old combs as long as they will last1 #ca ,method for ,pruning when necessary1 #ca ,tools for ,pruning1 #cb ,use of ,tobacco ,smoke1 #cc ,further objections to a sectional hive1 #cd ,non-,swarmers1 #ce ,contrast of profit1 #ce ,principle of swarming not understood1 #cf ,not to be depended upon1 #cg ,hives not always full before swarming1 #cg ,size of hives needed1 #cg ,an ,experiment1 #cg ,bees do not increase if full after the first year in same hive1 #ch ,gillmore's system doubted1 #ci ,utility of moth-proof hives doubted1 #ci ,instincts of the bee always the same1 #dj ,profit the object1 #da ,common hive recommended1 #db ,size ,important1 #db ,small hives most liable to accidents1 #db ,apt to deceive1 #dc ,unprofitable if too large1 #dc ,correct size between two extremes1 #dc ,size for warm latitudes1 #dd ,larger hives more safe for long ,winters or backward ,spring1 #dd #b1jjj inches safe for this section1 #de ,kind of ,wood1 width of ,board1 c41 #df ,shape of little consequence1 #df ,directions for making hives1 #dg ,size of cap and boxes1 #dh ,miner's ,hive1 #dh ,directions for making holes1 #di ,a ,suggestion1 #ej ,glass boxes preferred1 #ea ,glass boxes--how made1 #ea ,guide-combs necessary1 #eb ,wood ,boxes1 #ec ,cover for ,hives1 #ed ,jars and ,tumblers--how prepared1 #ed ,perfect ,observatory ,hive described1 #ee ,one like ,common ,hive preferred1 #ef ,what may be seen1 #ef ,directions for making ,glass ,hive1 #eg ,plate for ,hive1 #fa ,,chapter ,,iii4 ,,breeding4 ,imperfectly ,understood1 #fb ,good stocks seldom without brood1 #fc ,how small stocks commence1 #fd ,different with larger ones1 #fe ,how ,pollen is stored in the breeding season1 #fe ,operation of ,laying1 and the ,eggs described1 #ff ,time from the ,egg to the perfect ,bee1 #fg ,rough treatment of the young ,bee1 #fg ,guess-work1 #fh ,terms applied to young ,bees1 #fi ,discrepancy in time in rearing brood as given by ,huber1 #gj ,the number of ,eggs deposited by the ,queen guessed at1 #ga ,a test for the presence of a ,queen1 #gc ,when ,drones are reared1 #gd ,when ,queens1 #gd ,liability of being destroyed1 #gf ,drones destroyed when honey is scarce1 #gg ,old ,queen leaves with the first swarm1 #gh ,a young ,queen takes the place of her mother in the old stock1 #gi ,other ,theories1 #hj ,subject not understood1 #hj ,necessity for further observation1 #hd ,two sides of the question1 #he ,,chapter ,,iv4 ,,bee ,,pasturage4 ,substitute for ,pollen1 #hh ,manner of packing it1 #hi ,alder yields the first1 #hi ,fruit ,flowers important in good weather1 #ia ,red ,raspberry a favorite1 #ia ,catnip1 ,mother-wort and ,hoarhound1 are sought after1 #ib ,singular fatality attendant on ,silkweed1 #ic ,large yield from ,basswood1 #if ,garden ,flowers unimportant1 #ig ,honey-dew1 #ig ,singular ,secretion1 #ih ,secretions of the ,aphis1 #ih ,advantages of ,buckwheat1 #aja ,amount of honey collected from it1 #aja ,do ,bees injure the crop8 #ajb ,are not ,bees an advantage to vegetation8 #ajc ,a test for the presence of ,queen doubted1 #ajf ,an extra quantity of ,pollen not always detrimental1 #ajg ,what combs are generally free from ,bee-bread1 #ajh ,manner of packing stores1 #ajh ,philosophy in filling a cell with honey1 #aji ,long cells sometimes turned upward1 #aaj ,is a dry or wet season best for honey8 #aaa ,how many ,stocks should be kept1 #aab ,three principal sources of honey1 #aab ,,chapter ,v4 ,,wax4 ,is ,pollen converted into ,wax8 #aae ,how is it obtained8 #aae ,huber's account of a commencement of comb1 #aag ,best time to witness comb-making1 #aah ,manner of working ,wax1 #aai ,are crooked ,combs a disadvantage8 #abj ,uncertainty in weight of ,bees1 #abb ,some wax wasted1 #abd ,water necessary in ,comb-making1 #abd ,remarks1 #abf ,,chapter ,,vi4 ,,propolis4 ,what used for1 #abh ,is it an elaborate or natural substance8 #abi ,huber's ,opinion1 #abi ,further ,proof1 #abi ,remarks1 #acb ,,chapter ,,vii4 ,,the ,,apiary4 ,its location1 #acb ,decide ,early1 #acc ,bees mark their location on leaving the hive1 #acd ,changing stand attended with loss1 #acd ,can be taken some distance1 #ace ,danger of setting ,stocks too close1 #ace ,space between ,hives1 #acf ,small ,matters1 #acf ,economy1 #acg ,cheap arrangement of stands1 #ach ,canal ,bottom-board discarded1 #aci ,some advantage in being near the earth1 #aci ,utility of ,bee-,houses doubted1 #ada ,,chapter ,,viii4 ,,robberies4 ,not properly understood1 #adb ,improper ,remedies1 #adc ,difficulty in deciding1 #add ,weak families in most danger1 #add ,their ,battles1 #ade ,bad policy to raise in ,hives1 #adf ,indications of ,robbers1 #adf ,a ,duty1 #adg ,a ,test1 #adg ,robbing usually commences on a warm day1 #adh ,remedies1 #adi ,common ,opinion1 #adi ,a case in point1 #adi ,further ,directions1 #aej ,common cause of commencing1 #aea ,spring the worst time1 #aeb ,no necessity to have ,bees plundered in the fall1 #aec ,,chapter ,,ix4 ,,feeding ,,bees4 ,should be a last resort1 #aed ,care needed1 #aed ,apparent contradiction when feeding causes starvation1 #aee ,how long it will do to wait before feeding1 #aef ,directions for feeding1 #aeg ,whole ,families may desert the ,hive1 #aeh ,objections to general feeding1 #aei ,arrangement for feeding1 #aei ,feeding to induce early swarms1 #afa ,what may be fed1 #afb ,is candied honey injurious8 #afb ,,chapter ,x4 ,,destruction ,,of ,,worms4 ,some in the best ,stocks1 #afd ,how ,found1 #afe ,a tool for their destruction1 #afe ,mistaken ,conclusions1 #afg ,objections to suspended ,bottom-board1 #afg ,advantage of the ,hive close to the board1 #afh ,objection ,answered1 #afi ,insufficiency of inclined ,bottom-board #afi ,a ,moth can go where ,bees can1 #agj ,trap to catch ,worms1 #agj ,box for ,wren1 #aga ,,chapter ,,xi4 ,,putting ,,on ,,and ,,taking ,,off ,,boxes4 ,advantage of the ,patent ,vender1 #agb ,time of putting on--,rule1 #agb ,making holes after the ,hive is full1 #agd ,advantage of proper arrangement1 #agd ,directions for boring holes in full ,stock1 #agf ,to be taken off when filled1 #agg ,time taken to fill a box1 #agh ,when to take off boxes part full1 #agh ,tobacco ,smoke preferred to ,slides1 #agh ,manner of disposing of the ,bees in the boxes1 #agi ,bees disposed to carry away honey1 #agi ,not disposed to sting1 #ahj ,rule1 #aha ,,chapter ,,xii4 ,,securing ,,honey ,,from ,,the ,,moth4 ,two things to be prevented1 #aha ,apt to be deceived about the ,worms1 #ahb ,their progress described1 #ahb ,a ,solution offered1 #ahc ,method of killing ,worms in boxes1 #ahe ,freezing destroys them1 #ahf ,objection to using ,boxes before the ,hive is full1 #ahg ,,chapter ,,xiii4 ,,swarming4 ,time to expect them1 #ahg ,all ,bee-,keepers should understand it as it is1 #ahh ,means of understanding it1 #ahh ,inverting a stock rather formidable at first1 #ahi ,requisites before preparation of ,queen's cells1 #ahi ,state of ,queen-cell when used1 #aij ,state when swarms issue1 #aij ,clustering outside not always to be depended upon1 #aia ,examinations--the result1 #aia ,remarks1 #aib ,conflicting ,theories1 #aib ,both ,old and ,young leave with swarms1 #aib ,cause of the ,queen's inability to fly suggested1 #aic ,evidence of the ,old ,queen's leaving1 #aic ,mr4 ,weeks's ,theory not satisfactory1 #aid ,particular directions for testing the matter1 #aif ,empty ,hives to be ready1 #aig ,bottom-boards for hiving1 #aig ,description of swarm issuing1 #aih ,manner of hiving can be varied1 #aii ,usual ,methods1 #aii ,when out of reach1 #bjj ,when they cannot be shaken off1 #bjb ,all should be made to enter1 #bjc ,should be taken to the stand immediately1 #bjc ,protection from the ,sun necessary1 #bjc ,clustering ,bushes1 #bjd ,how swarms are generally managed that leave for the woods1 #bje ,nothing but ,bees needed in a ,hive1 #bjf ,seldom go off without clustering1 #bjg ,do swarms choose a location before swarming8 #bjg ,means of arresting a swarm1 #bjh ,some ,compulsion1 #bjh ,how far will they go in search of honey8 #bji ,two or more swarms liable to unite1 #baa ,disadvantage1 #baa ,can often be prevented1 #bab ,indications of swarming inside the ,hive1 #bab ,preventing a swarm issuing for a time1 #bac ,to prevent swarms uniting with those already hived1 #bac ,when two have united--the method of separating1 #bad ,no danger of a sting by the ,queen1 #bae ,some precautions in hiving two swarms together1 #baf ,how to find ,queen when two strangers are together1 #bag ,boxes for double swarms immediately1 #bah ,returning a part to the old stock1 #bah ,method of uniting1 #bai ,when care is necessary1 #bai ,swarm-,catcher1 #bbj ,swarms sometimes return1 #bbb ,repetition prevented1 #bbb ,liability to enter wrong stocks1 #bbc ,first issues generally choose fair weather1 #bbd ,after ,swarms1 #bbe ,their ,size1 #bbe ,time after the first1 #bbe ,piping of the ,queen1 #bbe ,may always be heard before and after swarm1 #bbf ,time of continuance varies1 #bbf ,time between second and third issues1 #bbg ,not always to be depended upon1 #bbg ,a ,rule for the time of these issues1 #bbh ,when it is useless to expect more swarms1 #bbi ,plurality of ,queens destroyed1 #bbi ,the ,manner1 #bcj ,theory doubted1 #bca ,after-swarms different in appearance from the first1 when about to issue1 #bcb ,time of day1 weather1 c41 #bcc ,swarms necessary to be seen1 #bcc ,returning after-swarms to the old stock1 #bce ,when they should be returned1 #bce ,method of doing it1 #bce ,more care needed by ,after-swarms when hived1 #bcg ,two may be united1 #bcg ,,chapter ,,xiv4 ,,loss ,,of ,,queens4 ,of swarms that lose their ,queen1 #bch ,a suggestion and an answer1 #bci ,a disputed question1 #bdj ,a multitude of ,drones needed1 #bda ,the ,queen liable to be lost in her excursions1 #bdc ,the time when it occurs1 #bdc ,indications of the loss1 #bdd ,the ,result1 #bde ,age of ,bees indicated1 #bdf ,necessity of care1 #bdf ,remedy1 #bdg ,mark the date of swarms on the ,hive1 #bdh ,obtaining a ,queen from worker brood1 #bdi ,they are poor dependence1 #bdi ,,chapter ,,xv4 ,,artificial ,,swarms4 ,principles should be understood1 #beb ,some ,experiments1 #bec ,the result unsatisfactory1 #bec ,further ,experiments1 #bed ,a successful method1 #bef ,advantages of this method1 #beg ,artificial swarms only safe near the swarming season1 #bei ,sometimes hazardous1 #bei ,some ,objections1 #bei ,natural and artificial swarms equally prosperous1 #bfj ,this matter too often delayed1 #bfa ,is the age of the ,queen important8 #bfa ,,chapter ,,xvi4 ,,pruning4 ,different opinions as to time1 #bfb ,another time preferred1 #bfc ,should not be delayed1 #bfc ,objection to ,pruning1 #bfd ,stocks pruned now are better for winter1 #bfe ,,chapter ,,xvii4 ,,diseased ,,brood4 ,not generally understood1 #bff ,my own experience1 #bfg ,description of ,disease1 #bfg ,the cause uncertain1 #bfh ,remedial ,experiments1 #bfh ,public inquiry and answers1 #bfh ,answers not satisfactory1 #bgj ,a cause suggested1 #bgj ,reasons for the opinion1 #bgb ,cause of its spreading1 #bgc ,not easily detected at first1 #bgd ,symptoms to be observed1 #bgd ,scalding the honey to destroy the poison for feeding1 #bge ,when to examine stocks that have swarmed1 #bge ,care in selecting stock-hives for winter1 #bgf ,accusations not always right1 #bgf ,,chapter ,,xviii4 ,,irritability ,,of ,,bees4 ,their means of defence1 #bgg ,time of greatest ,irritability1 #bgh ,proper ,conduct1 #bgh ,how to proceed when attacked1 #bgi ,a person's breath offensive1 and other causes1 #bgi ,their manner of attack1 #bgi ,smoker described1 #bhj ,effect of ,tobacco ,smoke1 #bha ,sting described1 #bhb ,does its loss prove fatal8 #bhc ,means of protection1 #bhd ,remedies for stings1 #bhe ,,chapter ,,xix4 ,,enemies ,,of ,,bees4 ,are they all guilty8 #bhf ,rats and ,mice1 #bhg ,are all the ,birds guilty8 #bhh ,king-bird--one word in his favor1 #bhh ,cat-bird acquitted1 #bhi ,toad got clear1 #bij ,wasps and ,hornets not favored1 #bij ,ants--a word in their favor1 #bia ,spider condemned1 #bib ,wax-,moth unrivalled for mischief1 #bic ,indications of their presence1 #bif ,management1 #bif ,care in turning over ,hives1 #big ,other symptoms of ,worms1 #bih ,when they grow larger than usual1 #bii ,time of ,growth1 #bii ,time of ,transformation1 #cjj ,freezing destroys ,worms1 ,cocoon1 and ,moth1 #cjj ,how they pass the ,winter1 #cja ,stocks more liable to be destroyed last of ,summer1 #cja ,when ,bees are safe1 #cjb ,means to destroy them1 #cjb ,making them drunk and their execution by ,chickens1 #cjc ,,chapter ,,xx4 ,,melting ,,down ,,of ,,combs4 ,the ,cause1 #cjd ,effects1 #cjd ,first ,indications1 #cje ,prevention1 #cje ,,chapter ,,xxi4 ,,fall ,,management4 ,first care1 #cjg ,strong ,stocks disposed to plunder1 #cjg ,bees ,changeable1 #cjh ,requisites for good ,stocks1 #cjh ,great disadvantage of killing the ,bees1 #cji ,section of country may make a difference in what poor stocks need1 #cji ,when ,bees are needed1 #caj ,caution1 #caa ,principal ,difficulty1 #caa ,how ,avoided1 #caa ,advantages of making one good stock from two poor ones1 #cab ,two families together will not consume as much as if separate1 #cab ,an ,experiment1 #cab ,season for operating1 #cac ,the ,fumigator1 #cad ,directions for uniting two families1 #cae ,uniting with ,tobacco ,smoke1 #cag ,condition of ,stocks in #ahea1 #cah ,how they were managed1 #cah ,cause of their superior ,thrift1 #cai ,swarms partly filled pay better than to cut out the honey1 #cbj ,advantages in transferring1 #cbj ,another method of uniting two families1 #cba ,uniting ,comb and ,honey as well as ,bees1 #cbb ,when feeding should be done for ,stock ,hives1 #cbc ,,chapter ,,xxii4 ,,wintering ,,bees4 ,different methods have been adopted1 #cbe ,the idea of ,bees not freezing has led to errors in practice1 #cbf ,appearance of ,bees in cold weather1 #cbf ,how part of the swarm is frozen1 #cbg ,how a small family may all freeze1 #cbg ,frost and ,ice sometimes smother ,bees1 #cbh ,frost and ,ice in a ,hive accounted for1 #cbi ,the effect of ,ice or ,frost on ,bees and ,comb1 #ccj ,frost may cause starvation1 #ccj ,other ,difficulties1 #ccj ,further ,illustrations1 #ccb ,accumulation of ,faeces described by some writers as a disease1 #ccf ,the ,author's remedy1 #ccg ,buying ,bees1 #ccg ,experiments of the ,author to get rid of the ,frost1 #cch ,success in this matter1 #cch ,bees when in the house should be kept perfectly dark1 #cci ,a room made for wintering ,bees1 #cci ,manner of stowing away ,hives1 #cdj ,temperature of room1 #cda ,too much ,honey may sometimes be stored1 #cdb ,management of room towards ,spring1 #cdb ,time for setting out ,bees1 #cdc ,not too many stocks taken out at once1 #cdc ,families may be equalized1 #cdd ,snow need not always prevent carrying out ,bees1 #cdd ,does not ,analogy prove that ,bees should be kept warm in ,winter8 #cde ,the next best place for wintering ,bees1 #cdf ,evils of wintering in the open air considered1 #cdg ,but little risk with good stocks1 #cdh ,effect of keeping second-rate stocks out of the sun1 #cdh ,effects of ,snow considered1 #cdi ,stocks to be protected on some occasions1 #cej ,do the ,bees eat more when allowed to come out occasionally in ,winter8 #ceb ,,chapter ,,xxiii4 ,,sagacity ,,of ,,bees4 ,are not ,bees directed alone by instinct8 #cec ,what they do with ,propolis1 #cec ,mending broken ,combs1 #ced ,making passages to every part of their ,combs1 #cee ,,chapter ,,xxiv4 ,,straining ,,honey ,,and ,,wax4 ,methods of removing ,combs from the ,hive1 #ceg ,different modes of straining ,honey1 #ceh ,getting out ,wax--different methods1 #cfj ,,chapter ,,xxv4 ,,purchasing ,,stocks ,,and ,,transporting ,,bees4 ,why the word luck is applied to ,bees1 #cfb ,rule in taking ,bees for a share1 #cfd ,a man may sell his luck1 #cfd ,first-rate stocks recommended to begin with1 #cfe ,old stocks are good as any if healthy1 #cfe ,caution respecting diseased brood1 #cff ,result of ignorance in purchasing1 #cff ,size of ,hives important1 #cfg ,how large ,hives can be made smaller1 #cfh ,moderate weather best to remove ,bees1 #cfi ,preparations for transporting ,bees1 #cgj ,securing ,bees in the ,hive1 #cgj ,best ,conveyance1 #cgj ,hive to be inverted1 #cga ,conclusion1 #cgb ,,preface4 ,before the reader decides that an apology is necessary for the introduction of another work on bees into the presence of those already before the public1 it is hoped that he will have the patience to examine the contents of this4 ,the writer of the following pages commenced beekeeping in #ahbh1 without any knowledge of the business to assist him1 save a few directions about hiving1 smoking them with sulphur1 c4 ,nearly all the information to be had was so mingled with erroneous whims and notions1 that it required a long experience to separate essential and consistent points4 ,it was impossible to procure a work that gave the information necessary for practice4 ,from that time to the present1 no sufficient guide for the inexperienced has appeared4 ,european works1 republished here1 are of but little value4 ,weeks1 ,townley1 ,miner1 and others1 writers of this country1 within a few years1 have given us treatises1 valuable to some extent1 but have entirely neglected several chapters1 very important and essential to the beginner4 ,keeping bees has been1 and is now1 by the majority1 deemed a hazardous enterprise4 ,the ravages of the moth had been so great1 and loss so frequent1 that but little attention was given to the subject for a long time4 ,mr4 ,weeks lost his entire stock three times in fifteen years4 ,but soon after the discovery was promulgated1 that honey could be taken from a stock without destroying the bees1 an additional attention was manifest1 increasing to a rage in many places4 ,it seems to be easily understood1 that profit must attend success1 in this branch of the farmer's stock2 inasmuch as the bees work for nothing and find themselves4 ,this interest in bees should be encouraged to continue till enough are kept to collect all the honey now wasted2 which1 compared with the present collections1 would be more than a thousand pounds to one4 ,but to succeed1 that is the difficulty4 ,some eighteen years since1 after a propitious season1 an aged and esteemed friend said to me1 ,it is not to be expected that you will have such luck always2 you must expect they will run out after a time4 ,i have always noticed1 when people have first-rate luck for a time1 that the bees generally take a turn1 and are gone in a few years4 ,i am not sure but1 to the above remarks1 may be traced the cause of my subsequent success4 ,it stimulated me to observation and inquiry4 ,i soon found that good seasons were the lucky ones1 and that many lost in an adverse season1 all they had before gained4 ,also1 that strong families were the only ones on which ,i could depend for protection against the moth4 ,this induced the effort to ascertain causes tending to diminish the size of families1 and the application of remedies4 ,whether success has attended my efforts or not1 the reader can judge1 after a perusal of the work4 ,it is time that the word luck1 as applied to beekeeping1 was discarded4 ,the prevailing opinion1 that bees will prosper for one person more than another1 under the same circumstances1 is fallacious4 ,as well might it be applied to the mechanic and farmer4 ,the careless1 ignorant farmer1 might occasionally succeed in raising a crop with a poor fence2 but would be liable1 at any time1 to lose it by trespassing cattle4 ,he might have suitable soil in the beginning1 but without knowledge1 for the proper application of manures1 it might fail to produce2 unless a chance application happened to be right4 ,but with the intelligent farmer the case is different3 fences in order1 manures judiciously applied1 and with propitious seasons1 he makes a sure thing of it4 ,call him lucky if you please2 it is his knowledge1 and care1 that render him so4 ,so with bee-keeping1 the careful man is the lucky one4 ,there can be no effect without a preceding cause4 ,if you lose a stock of bees1 there is a cause or causes producing it1 just as certain as the failure of a crop with the unthrifty farmer1 can be traced to a poor fence1 or unfruitful soil4 ,you may rest assured1 that a rail is off your fence of management somewhere1 or the proper applications have not been made4 ,in relation to bees1 these things may not be quite so apparent1 yet nevertheless true4 ,why is there so much more uncertainty in apiarian science than other farming operations8 ,it must be attributed to the fact1 that among the thousands who are engaged in1 and have studied agriculture1 perhaps not more than one has given his energies to the nature and habits of bees4 ,if knowledge is elicited in the same ratio1 we ought to have a thousand times more light on one subject than the other1 and still there are some things1 even in agriculture1 that may yet be learned4 ,it is supposed1 by many1 that we already have all the knowledge that the subject of bees affords4 ,this is not surprising2 a person that was never furnished with a full treatise1 might arrive at such conclusions4 ,unless his own experience goes deeper1 he can have no means of judging what is yet behind4 ,in conversation relative to this work1 with a person of considerable scientific attainments1 he remarked1 ,you do not want to give the natural history of bees at all2 that is already sufficiently understood4 ,and how is it understood2 as ,huber gives it1 or in accordance with some of our own writers8 ,if we take ,huber as a guide1 we find many points recently contradicted4 ,if we compare authors of our day1 we find them contradicting each other4 ,one recommends a peculiarly constructed hive1 as just the thing adapted to their nature and instincts4 ,if a single point is in accordance with their nature1 he labors to twist all the others to his purpose1 although it may involve a fundamental principle impossible to reconcile4 ,some one else succeeds in another point1 and proceeds to recommend something altogether different4 ,false and contradictory assertions are made either through ignorance1 or interest4 ,interest may blind the judgment1 and spurious history may deceive4 ,it is folly to expect success in bee-keeping for any length of time1 without a correct knowledge of their nature and instincts2 and this we shall never obtain by the course hitherto pursued4 ,as much of their labor is performed in the dark1 and difficult to be observed1 it has given rise to conjecture and false reasoning1 leading to false conclusions4 ,when ,i say a thing is so1 or say it is not so1 what evidence has the reader that it is proved or demonstrated8 ,my mere assertions are not expected to be taken in preference to another's2 of such proof1 we have more than enough4 ,most people have not the time1 patience1 or ability1 to set down quietly with close observation1 and investigate the subject thoroughly4 ,hence it has been found easier to receive error for truth1 than to make the exertion necessary to confute it2 the more so1 because there is no guide to direct the investigation4 ,i shall1 therefore1 pursue a different course2 and for every assertion endeavor to give a test1 that the reader may apply and satisfy himself1 and trust to no one4 ,as for theories1 ,i shall try to keep them separate from facts1 and offer such evidence as ,i have1 either for or against them4 ,if the reader has further proof that presents the matter in another light1 of course he will exercise the right to a difference of opinion4 ,i could give a set of rules for practice1 and be very brief1 but this would be unsatisfactory4 ,when we are told a thing must be done1 most of us1 like the inquisitive ,yankee1 have a desire to know why it is necessary2 and then like to know how to do it4 ,this gives us confidence that we are right4 ,hence1 ,i shall endeavor to give the practical part1 in as close connection with the natural history1 that dictates it1 as possible4 ,this work will contain several chapters entirely new to the public3 the result of my own experience1 that will be of the utmost value to all who desire to realize the greatest possible advantages from their bees4 ,the additions to chapters already partially discussed by others1 will contain much original matter not to be found elsewhere4 ,when many stocks are kept1 the chapter on ,loss of ,queens1 alone1 will1 with attention1 save to any one1 not in the secret1 enough in one season to be worth more in value than many times the cost of this work4 ,the same might be said of those on diseased brood1 artificial swarms1 wintering bees1 and many others4 ,if such a work could have been placed in my hands twenty years ago1 ,i should have realized hundreds of dollars by the information4 ,but instead of this1 my course has been1 first to suffer a loss1 and then find out the remedy1 or preventive2 from which the reader may be exempt1 as ,i can confidently recommend these directions4 ,another new feature will be found in the duties of each season being kept by itself1 commencing with the spring and ending with the winter management4 ,in my anxiety to be understood by all classes of readers1 ,i am aware that ,i have made the elegant construction and arrangement of sentences of secondary importance2 therefore justly liable to criticism4 ,but to the reader1 whose object is information on this subject1 it can be of but little consequence4 ,,chapter ,i4 ,a ,,brief ,,history4 ,,three ,,kinds ,,of ,,bees4 ,every prosperous swarm1 or family of bees1 must contain one queen1 several thousand workers1 and1 part of the year1 a few hundred drones4 ,illustration3 ,,queen4 ,illustration3 ,,worker4 ,illustration3 ,,drone4 ,,queen ,,described4 ,the queen is the mother of the entire family2 her duty appears to be only to deposit eggs in the cells4 ,her abdomen has its full size very abruptly where it joins the trunk or body1 and then gradually tapers to a point4 ,she is longer than either the drones or workers1 but her size1 in other respects1 is a medium between the two4 ,in shape she resembles the worker more than the drone2 and1 like the worker1 has a sting1 but will not use it for anything below royalty4 ,she is nearly destitute of down1 or hairs2 a very little may be seen about her head and trunk4 ,this gives her a dark1 shining appearance1 on the upper side--some are nearly black4 ,her legs are somewhat longer than those of a worker2 the two posterior ones1 and the under surface1 are often of a bright copper color4 ,in some of them a yellow stripe nearly encircles the abdomen at the joints1 and meets on the back4 ,her wings are about the same as the workers1 but as her abdomen is much longer1 they only reach about two-thirds the length of it4 ,for the first few days after leaving the cell1 her size is much less than after she has assumed her maternal duties4 ,she seldom1 perhaps never1 leaves the hive1 except when leading a swarm1 and when but a few days old1 to meet the drones1 in the air1 for the purpose of fecundation4 ,the manner of the queen's impregnation is yet a disputed point1 and probably never witnessed by any one4 ,the majority of close observers1 ,i believe1 are of opinion that the drones are the males1 and that sexual connection takes place in the air1#a performing their amours while on the wing1 like the humble-bee and some other insects4 ,it appears that one impregnation is operative during her life1 as old queens are not afterwards seen coming out for that purpose4 #a ,the objectors to this hypothesis will be generally found among those who are unable to give a more plausible elucidation4 ,those who oppose the fact that one bee is the mother of the whole family1 will probably be in the same class4 ,,description ,,and ,,duty ,,of ,,workers4 ,as all labor devolves on the workers1 they are provided with a sack1 or bag1 for honey4 ,basket-like cavities are on their legs1 where they pack the pollen of flowers into little pellets1 convenient to bring home4 ,they are also provided with a sting1 and a virulent poison1 although they will not use it abroad when unmolested1 but1 if attacked1 will generally defend themselves sufficient to escape4 ,they range the fields for honey and pollen1 secrete wax1 construct combs1 prepare food1 nurse the young1 bring water for the use of the community1 obtain propolis to seal up all crevices about the hive1 stand guard1 and keep out intruders1 robbers1 c41 c4 ,,description ,,of ,,drones4 ,when the family is large and honey abundant1 a brood of drones is reared2 the number1 probably1 depends on the yield of honey1 and size of the swarm1 more than anything else4 ,as honey becomes scarce1 they are destroyed4 ,their bodies are large and rather clumsy1 covered with short hairs or bristles4 ,their abdomen terminates very abruptly1 without the symmetry of the queen or worker4 ,their buzzing1 when on the wing1 is louder1 and altogether different from the others4 ,they seem to be of the least value of any in the hive4 ,perhaps not more than one in a thousand is ever called upon to perform the duty for which they were designed4 ,yet they assist1 on some occasions1 to keep up the animal heat necessary in the old hive after a swarm has left4 ,,most ,,brood ,,in ,,spring4 ,in spring and first of summer1 when nearly all the combs are empty1 and food abundant1 they rear brood more extensively than at any other period1 7towards fall more combs are filled with honey1 giving less room for brood47 ,the hive soon becomes crowded with bees1 and royal cells are constructed1 in which the queen deposits her eggs4 ,when some of these young queens are advanced sufficiently to be sealed over1 the old one1 and the greater part of her subjects1 leave for a new location1 7termed swarming47 ,they soon collect in a cluster1 and1 if put into an empty hive1 commence anew their labors2 constructing combs1 rearing brood1 and storing honey1 to be abandoned on the succeeding year for another tenement4 ,one in a hundred may do it the same season1 if the hive is filled and crowded again in time to warrant it4 ,only large early swarms do this4 ,,their ,,industry4 ,industry belongs to their nature4 ,when the flowers yield honey1 and the weather is fine1 they need no impulse from man to perform their part4 ,when their tenement is supplied with all things necessary to reach another spring1 or their store-house full1 and no necessity or room for an addition1 and we supply them with more space1 they assiduously toil to fill it up4 ,rather than to waste time in idleness1 during a bounteous yield of honey1 they have been known to deposit their surplus in combs outside the hive1 or under the stand4 ,this natural industrious habit lies at the foundation of all the advantages in bee-keeping2 consequently our hives must be constructed with this end in view2 and at the same time not interfere with other points of their nature2 but this subject will be discussed in the next chapter4 ,those peculiar traits in their nature1 mentioned in this1 will be more fully discussed in different parts of this work1 as they appear to be called for1 and where proof will be offered to sustain the positions here assumed1 which as yet are nothing more than mere assertions4 ,,chapter ,,ii4 ,,hives4 ,,hives ,,to ,,be ,,thoroughly ,,made4 ,hives should be constructed of good materials1 boards of good thickness1 free from flaws and cracks1 well fitted and thoroughly nailed4 ,the time of making them is not very particular1 providing it is done in season4 ,it certainly should not be put off till the swarming period1 to be made as wanted1 because if they are to be painted2 it should be done as long as possible before1 as the rank smell of oil and paint1 just applied1 might be offensive to the bees4 ,but what kind of hive shall be made8 ,in answer1 some less than a thousand forms have been given4 ,the advantages of bee-keeping depend as much upon the construction of hives1 as any one thing2 yet there is no subject pertaining to them on which there is such a variety of opinions1 and ,i have but little hopes of reconciling all these conflicting views1 opinions1 prejudices1 and interests4 ,,different ,,opinions ,,about ,,them4 ,one is in favor of the old box1 and the cruel practice of killing the bees to obtain the honey1 as the only means to obtain luck2 they are sure to run out if they meddle with them4 ,another will rush to the opposite extreme1 and advocate all the extravagant fancies of the itinerant patent-vender1 as the ne plus ultra of all hives1 when perhaps it would be worth more for fire-wood than the apiary4 ,,the ,,author ,,has ,,no ,,patent ,,to ,,recommend4 ,to remove from the mind of the reader all apprehension that ,i am about condemning one patent to recommend another1 ,i would say in the beginning1 that ,i have no patent to praise1 no interest in deceiving1 and ,i hope no prejudices to influence me1 in advocating or condemning any system4 ,i wish to make bee-keeping plain1 simple1 economical1 and profitable2 so that when we sum up the profit it shall not be found in the other pocket4 ,it is a principle recognized by our statute1 that no person is suitable as a ,juror1 who is biased either by interest or prejudice4 ,now whether ,i am the impartial ,jurist1 is not for me to say3 but ,i wish to discuss the subject fairly4 ,i hope some few will be enabled to see their own interest3 at any rate1 dismiss prejudice1 as far as possible1 while we examine wherein one class in community is unprofitable to bee-keepers4 ,,speculators ,,supported ,,long ,,enough4 ,we have faithfully supported a host of speculators on our business for a long time2 often not caring one straw about our success1 after pocketing the fee of successful humbuggery4 ,one is no sooner gone1 than we are beset by another1 with something altogether different1 and of course the acme of perfection4 ,,prefix ,,of ,,patent ,a ,,bad ,,recommendation4 ,this has been done until the very prefix of patent1 or premium1 attached to a hive1 renders it almost certain that there must be something deleterious to the apiarian2 either in expense of construction or intricate and perplexing in management1 requiring an engineer to manage1 and a skilful architect to construct4 ,what does the ,american savage1 who without difficulty can track the panther or wolf1 know of the principles of chemistry8 ,what does the ,chemist know of following a track in the forest1 when nothing but withered leaves can guide him8 ,each understands principles1 the minutiae of which the other never dreamed4 ,,ignorance ,,of ,,officers ,,and ,,committees4 ,thus it appears to be with granting patents and premiums1 if we take what has been patented and praised by our committees and officers as improvements in bee-culture4 ,these men may be capable1 intelligent1 and well fitted for their sphere1 but in bee matters1 about as capable of judging1 as the ,hottentot would be of the merits of an intricate steam-engine4 ,knowledge and experience are the only qualifications competent to decide4 ,,opposition ,,to ,,simplicity4 ,i am aware that among the thousands whose direct interest is opposed to my simple1 plain manner of getting along1 many will be ready to contend with me for every departure from their patent1 improved or premium hives1 as the case may be4 ,,by ,,gaining ,,one ,,point1 ,,produce ,,another ,,evil4 ,i think it will be an easy matter to show that every departure from simplicity to gain one point1 is attended in another by a correspondent evil1 that often exceeds the advantage gained4 ,that we have made vast improvements in art and science1 and in every department of human affairs1 no one will deny2 consequently1 it is assumed we must correspondingly improve in a bee-hive2 forgetting that nature has fixed limits to the instinct of the bee1 beyond which she will not go6 ,it will be necessary to point out the advantages and objections to these pretended improvements1 and then we will see if we cannot avoid the objections1 and retain the advantages1 without the expense1 by a simple addition to the common hive2 because if we expect to encourage bee-keeping1 they must have better success than a neighbor of mine1 who expended fifty dollars for bees and a patent1 and lost all in three years6 ,most bee-keepers are farmers2 very few are engineers sufficient to work them successfully4 ,i would say to all such as do not understand the nature of bees1 adhere to simplicity until you do1 and then ,i am quite sure you will have no desire for a change4 ,,first ,,delusion4 ,probably the first delusion in the patent line originated with the idea1 that to obtain surplus honey1 it was absolutely necessary to have a chamber hive4 ,to get rid of the depredations of mice1 the suspended hive was contrived4 ,the inclined bottom-board was then added to throw out the worms4 ,to prevent the combs from sliding down1 the lower end was contracted4 ,the principle of bees rearing queens from worker-eggs when destitute1 gave rise to the dividing hive in several forms4 ,comb1 when used several years1 becomes thickened and black1 and needs changing2 hence the changeable hives1 ,non-swarmers have been introduced to save risk and trouble4 ,moth-proof hives to prevent the ravages of worms1 c41 c4 ,,chamber ,,hive4 ,the chamber hive is made with two apartments2 the lower and largest is for the permanent residence of the bees1 the upper or chamber for the boxes4 ,its merits are these3 the chamber affords all the protection necessary for glass boxes2 considered as a cover1 it is never lost4 ,its demerits are inconvenience in handling2 it occupies more room if put in the house in the winter2 if glass boxes are used1 only one end can be seen1 and this may be full when the other may hold some pounds yet1 and we cannot possibly know until it is taken out4 ,i know we are told to return such boxes when not full and the bees will soon finish them1 but this will depend on the yield of honey at the time2 if abundant1 it will be filled2 if not1 they will be very likely to take a hint1 and remove below what there is in the box2 whereas if the chamber was separate from the hive1 and was not a chamber but a loose cap to cover the boxes1 it could be raised at any time without disturbing a single bee1 and the precise time of the boxes being filled ascertained1 7that is1 when they are of glass47 ,,mrs4 ,,griffith',s ,,hive4 ,mrs4 ,griffith1 of ,new ,jersey1 is said to have invented the suspended chamber hive with the inclined bottom-board4 ,one would suppose this was sufficiently inconvenient to use1 and difficult and expensive to construct4 ,,weeks' ,,improvement4 ,yet ,mr4 ,weeks makes an alteration1 calls it an improvement1 the expense is but a trifle more2 it is sufficient to be sanctioned by a patent4 ,from front to rear1 the bottom is about three inches narrower than the top1 somewhat wedge-shape2 it has the merit to prevent the combs from slipping down1 when they happen to be made1 to have the edges supported4 ,the objections are1 that filth from the bees will not fall as readily to the bottom as if every side was perpendicular1 and the extra trouble in constructing4 ,,inclined ,,bottom-,,boards ,,do ,,not ,,throw ,,out ,,all ,,the ,,worms4 ,inclined bottom-boards form the basis of one or two patents1 said to be good to roll out the worms4 ,i can imagine a pea rolling off such a board2 but a worm is not often found in a rolling condition4 ,most of us know1 that when a worm drops from the combs1 it is like the spider1 with a thread attached above4 ,the only way that ,i can imagine one to be thrown out by these boards1 is to have it dead when it strikes it1 or so cold that it cannot spin a thread1 and wind to shake the board1 till it rolls off4 ,the objections to these boards are coupled with the suspended hive1 with which they are usually connected4 ,,objections ,,to ,,suspended ,,hives4 ,all suspended hives must be objectionable to any one who wishes to know the true condition of his bees at all times4 ,only think of the trouble of unhooking the bottom-board1 and getting down on your back1 or twisting your neck till your head is dizzy1 to look up among the combs1 and then see nothing satisfactory for want of light2 or to lift the hive from its supporters1 and turn it over4 ,the operation is too formidable for an indolent man1 or one that has much other business4 ,the examination would very probably be put off till quite sure it would do no longer1 and sometimes a few days after that1 when you will very often find your bees past remedy4 ,,see ,,bees ,,often4 ,see your bees often1 is a choice recipe1--it is worth five hundred dollars at interest1 even when you have but few stocks4 ,how necessary then that we have every facility for a close and minute inspection4 ,how much easier to turn up a hive that simply rests on a stand4 ,sometimes it is necessary to turn the hive1 even bottom up1 and let the rays of the sun directly among the combs1 to see all the particulars4 ,by this close inspection1 ,i have often ascertained the cause of some difficulty1 and provided a remedy1 thus saving a good many that in a short time would have been lost2 yet1 with a little help1 were as valuable as any by another year4 ,,hall',s ,,patent4 ,mr4 ,hall has added a lower section to his hive1 about four inches deep1 with two boards inside1 like the roof of a house1 to discharge the worms1 c42 but as these boards would interfere with close inspection1 they are objectionable4 ,several other variations of inclined bottom-boards and suspended hives have been contrived1 to obtain a patent1 but the objections offered will apply to most of them4 ,i shall not weary the reader by noticing in detail every hive that has been patented2 ,i think if ,i notice the principles of each kind1 it will test his patience sufficiently4 ,,jones' ,,patent4 ,jones' dividing hive was probably suggested by this instinctive principle of the bee1 viz43 when a stock by any accident loses its queen1 and the combs contain eggs or very young larvae1 they will rear another4 ,now if a hive is constructed so as to divide the brood-combs1 it would seem quite certain that the half without a queen1 would raise one2 and we could multiply our stocks without swarms1 the trouble of hiving1 and risk of their going to the woods1 c4 ,,an ,,experiment4 ,several years ago1 ,i thought ,i had obtained a principle that would revolutionize the whole system of bee management4 ,in #ahdj ,i constructed such hives1 and put in the bees to test by actual experiment1 the utility of what seemed so very plausible in theory4 ,it would appear that this principle suggested the same idea to ,mr4 ,jones2 perhaps with this difference3 ,i think he did not wait to test the plan thoroughly1 before obtaining his patent in '#db4 ,one vender of rights asserted that #fc stocks were made from one in three years2 but somehow a great many that obtained the rights1 failed in their expectations4 ,from my experiments1 ,i think ,i could guess at some of the reasons4 ,mr4 ,a4--,well1 what are the reasons8 give us your experience1 if you please1 ,i am interested2 ,i had the right for such a hive1 and had a lot made to order1 that cost more money in the end than ,i shall ever pay again for anything about bees4 ,do not be too hasty1 friend1 ,i think ,i can instruct you to keep bees on principles in accordance with their nature1 which is very simple1 so that if you can be induced to try again1 we will have the hives cost but little1 at any rate4 ,,reasons ,,of ,,failure ,,in ,,dividing ,,hives4 ,the greatest difficulty with dividing hives1 appeared to be here4 ,it must be constructed with a partition or division to keep the combs in each apartment separate2 otherwise1 we make tearing work in the division4 ,when bees are first put into such hives1 unless the swarm is very large1 and honey abundant1 one apartment will be filled to the bottom before a commencement is made in the other4 ,mr4 ,a4--,what difference can that make8 ,it is necessary to have the hive full2 if it cannot be all filled at once1 why let them fill part4 ,the difference is this4 ,the first combs built by a swarm are for brood1 and store-combs afterwards1 as needed2 one apartment will be nearly filled with all brood-combs1 and the other with store-combs and honey4 ,now in the two kinds of cells there is a great difference2 those for breeding are near half an inch in length1 while those for storing are sometimes two inches or more2 totally unfit for breeding2 until the bees cut them off to the proper length1 which they will not do1 unless compelled for want of room1 consequently this side of store-combs is but little used for brood4 ,when such hive is divided1 the chances are not more than one in four1 that this apartment will have any young bees of the proper age from which to raise a queen2 if not1 and the old queen is in the part with the brood-comb1 where she will be ninety-nine times in a hundred1 one half of the hive is lost for want of a queen4 ,mr4 ,a4--,ah6 ,i think ,i now understand how ,i lost one-half of nearly every hive ,i divided4 ,i also lost some of them in the winter2 there was plenty of bees as well as honey2 can you tell the cause of this8 ,i will guess that they starved4 ,mr4 ,a4--,starved6 why1 ,i said there was plenty of honey4 ,i understood it1 but nevertheless feel quite sure4 ,mr4 ,a4--,i would like to see that made plain2 ,i can't understand how they could starve when there was honey6 ,,cause ,,of ,,starving ,,in ,,such ,,hives4 ,i said one apartment would be filled with brood-combs2 this will be occupied1 at least partially1 with brood as long as the yield of honey lasts2 consequently1 there will be but little room for storing here1 but the other side may be full throughout4 ,the bees will take up their winter quarters among the brood-combs4 ,now suppose the honey in this apartment is all exhausted during a severe turn of cold weather1 what can the bees do8 ,if one should leave the mass and go among the frosty combs for a supply1 its fate would be as certain as starvation4 ,without frequent intervals of warm weather to melt all frost on the combs1 and allow the bees to go into the other apartment for honey1 they must starve4 ,the cost of construction is another objection to this hive1 as the labor bestowed on one is more than would finish two1 that would be much better4 ,,advantages ,,of ,,the ,,changeable ,,hive ,,considered4 ,the value of changeable hives is based upon the following principle3--,each young bee when it first hatches from the egg1 is neither more nor less than a worm2 when it receives the necessary food1 the bees seal it over2 it will then spin a cocoon1 or line its cell with a coating of silk1 less in thickness than the thinnest paper3 this remains after the bee leaves it4 ,it is evident1 therefore1 that after a few hundreds have been reared in a cell1 and each one has left its cocoon1 that such cell must be somewhat diminished1 although the thickness of a dozen cocoons could not be measured2 and this old cell needs removing1 that the bees may replace it with a new one4 ,but how shall it be done8 ,this is a feat for the display of ingenuity4 ,a common man might go about it in a very sensible1 simple manner1 might possibly turn the hive over1 and cut out the old combs when necessary1 without knowing perhaps that the patent-vender could sell a receipt to do the thing scientifically1 the benefit of which would be many times on the principle of a surgeon cutting off your head1 to get a good chance to tie a small artery according to system2 or would show you a roundabout way of half a dozen miles to accomplish what the same number of rods would do4 ,had we not ocular demonstration of the fact1 we could not suppose so many variations for the same end could be invented4 ,but if we reward ingenuity1 it will be stimulated to great exertions4 ,perhaps if we describe the merits of one or two of this class1 the utility of this principle may be comprehended4 ,,variation ,,of ,,these ,,hives4 ,first1 then1 the sectional hive of various patterns has been patented2 it consists generally of about three boxes1 one above another2 the top of each has one large hole1 or several small ones1 or cross-bars1 about an inch wide1 and half an inch apart2 these holes or spaces allowing the bees to pass from one box to the other4 ,when all are full1 the upper one is removed1 and an empty one put under the bottom2 in this way all are changed1 and the combs renewed in three years2 very easily and quietly done4 ,this is as far as a patent-vender wishes the subject investigated2 and some of his customers have not gone beyond this point4 ,as an offset for these advantages1 we will first look at the cost of such hive4 ,,expense ,,in ,,constructing ,,changeable ,,hives4 ,it is as much work to construct each separate section1 as a common hive2 consequently1 it is three times the expense to begin with4 ,it is objectionable for wintering bees1 on the same principle as the dividing hive4 ,i object to it on another point3 our surplus honey will never be pure1 as each section must be used for breeding1 and every cell so used1 will contain cocoons corresponding to the number of bees raised4 ,,surplus ,,honey ,,will ,,contain ,,bee-,,bread4 ,also pollen1 or bee-bread1 is always stored in the vicinity of the young brood2 some of this will remain mixed with the honey1 to please the palate with its exquisite flavor4 ,the majority will probably prefer all surplus honey stored in pure comb1 where it will be with proper management4 ,i will here give a full description of a hive on this principle1 as ,i have the description from one of its advocates1 in the ,dollar ,newspaper1 ,philadelphia3 called ,cutting's ,patent ,changeable ,hive4 ,,description ,,of ,,cutting',s ,,changeable ,,hive4 ,the size of the changeable hive most used in this section1 has an outside shell1 made of inch boards1 about two feet high and sixteen and a half inches square1 with a door hung in the rear4 ,on the inside are three boxes or drawers1 which will hold about one thousand cubic inches each1 and when filled with honey1 usually weigh about thirty-five pounds1 which is a sufficient amount of honey to winter a large swarm4 ,the sides of these drawers are made of boards1 about half an inch thick2 the tops and bottoms of the lower drawers and ends of the upper drawers should be three-fourths of an inch1 and the drawers should be fourteen inches high1 fourteen inches from front to rear1 and six and three-fourths inches wide4 ,two of these drawers stand side by side1 with the third placed flatwise upon the two1 with a free communication from one drawer to another1 by means of thirty three-fourth inch holes on the side of each drawer1 and twenty-four in the bottom of the upper drawer1 and holes in the top and bottom of the lower drawers1 to correspond1 and slides to cut off the communication when occasion may require4 ,thus we see our hive may be one hive1 with communication sufficiently free throughout1 or we may have three hives combined4 ,the drawers have tubes made in them1 7for the bees to pass and repass71 which are made to go through the front side of the hive4 ,the back-side of the drawers are doors1 with glass set in them4 ,these drawers set up from the bottom of the hive1 and rest on pieces of wood1 closely fitted in such a way1 as to make a space under the drawers for the dirt1 dead bees1 and water1 which collect in the bottom of hives in winter2 between the drawers and the outside is an air space of about one-third of an inch4 ,these hives1 when well made and painted1 will last many years1 and those doing much in the business will find it an advantage to have a few extra drawers4 ,having given you some idea of the construction of the changeable hive1 ,i will proceed to notice some of the most important reasons why ,i prefer this hive to any ,i have yet seen4 ,first because the hive1 being constructed upon the changeable principle1 so that by taking out a full drawer1 and placing an empty one in its stead1 our comb is always kept new1 wherefore1 the size of the bee is preserved1 and kept in a more healthy1 or prosperous state1 or condition1 than when obliged to remain and continue to breed1 in the old comb1 when the cells have become small4 ,secondly1 because small1 late swarms may be easily united4 ,thirdly1 because large swarms may be easily divided4 ,fourthly1 because however late a swarm may come off1 it may be easily supplied with honey for the winter1 by taking from a full hive a surplus drawer1 and placing it in the hive of the late swarm4 ,fifthly1 because a column of air between the drawers and the outside of the hive is a non-conductor of both heat and cold1 preventing the melting of the comb1 and securing the bees against frost and cold4 ,now here is a full description of perhaps as good a hive as any of its class2 it is given for the benefit of those who wish to go miles instead of rods2 they may know the road1 especially as they can have the privilege by paying for it3 for myself1 ,i had rather be excused1--why1 reading the description has nearly exhausted my patience2 what should ,i do if ,i attempted to make one8 ,,first ,,objection1 ,,cost ,,of ,,construction4 ,the first obstacle in the way 7after the right is obtained7 is the construction4 ,let's see2 we want inch boards to make the shell1 three-quarter inch boards for the tops and bottoms of drawers1 half inch for sides1 hinges to hang a door1 glass for back of drawers1 tubes for the egress of the bees1 and slides to cut off communication4 ,it will be necessary to get a mechanic1 and a workman too4 ,those #ajh holes that must be bored1 must match1 or it is of no use to make them4 ,but few farmers would have the tools requisite1 a still less number the skill and patience to do it4 ,what the cost might be by the time a hive was ready to receive the bees1 ,i could not say2 but guess it might be some three or four dollars4 ,,hives ,,can ,,be ,,made ,,with ,,less ,,expense4 ,the one ,i shall recommend1 without paint1 will not cost1 or need not1 over #cg-a_/b cents1 with cover1 etc4 ,now1 if we wish hives for ornament1 it is well enough to expend something for the purpose2 but it is well not to refine too much1 as there are limits which1 if passed1 will render it unfit for bees4 ,therefore1 when profit is an object1 the extra expense will or ought to be made up by the bees1 in return for an expensive domicil4 ,but will they do it8 ,the merits of the one under consideration are fully given4 ,first1 by taking out a full drawer and putting in an empty one in its stead1 the combs are always kept new1 and cells of full size4 ,now this fear of bees becoming dwarfs in consequence of being reared in cells too small1 has done more mischief among the bees1 and their owners' pockets1 than if the fact had never been thought1 or heard of4 ,,old ,,breeding ,,cells ,,will ,,last ,a ,,long ,,time4 ,these old cells do not need renewing half as often as has been represented4 ,it is the interest of these patent-venders to sell rights2 this interest either blinds their eyes as to facts1 or lulls the internal monitor of right1 while acquisitiveness is gratified4 ,the same cells can be used for breeding six or eight years1 perhaps longer1 and no one can tell the difference by the size of the bees2 ,i have two stocks now in their tenth year without renewal of comb4 ,a neighbor of mine kept a stock twelve years in the same combs2 it proved as prosperous as any4 ,i have heard of their lasting twenty1 and am inclined to believe it4 ,,cells ,,larger ,,than ,,necessary ,,at ,,first4 ,the bees seem to make a provision for this emergency1 the sheets of comb are farther apart than actually necessary at first1 the diameter of the cell is also a little larger than the size of the young bee requires4 ,of this we are certain--great many young bees can be raised in a cell1 and not be diminished in size1 sufficient to be detected4 ,the bottom fills up faster than at the sides1 and as they do so1 the bees add a little to the length1 until the ends of these cells on two parallel combs approximate too close to allow the bees to pass freely2 before which time it is unnecessary to remove comb for being old4 ,,expense ,,of ,,renewing ,,combs4 ,one important item should be considered in this matter1 by those who are so eager for new combs4 ,it is doubtful whether one in #ejj ever thought of the expense of renewing comb4 ,i find it estimated by one writer1#b that twenty-five lbs4 of honey was consumed in elaborating about half lb4 wax4 ,this without doubt is an over estimate1 but no one will deny that some is used4 #b ,see ,appendix of ,cottage ,bee-keeper1 page #aah4 ,,best ,,to ,,use ,,old ,,combs ,,as ,,long ,,as ,,they ,,will ,,answer4 ,i am satisfied of this much1 from actual experience1 that every time the bees have to renew their brood-combs in a hive1 they would make from ten to twenty-five lbs4 in boxes1 hence ,i infer that their time can be more profitably employed than in constructing brood-combs every year4 ,i would also suggest that when combs have been once used for breeding it is the best use they can be applied to1 after that1 as the cocoons render it unfit for much else than a little wax4 ,,method ,,for ,,pruning ,,when ,,necessary4 ,but when the combs do actually need removing1 ,i prefer the following method of pruning1 to driving the bees out entirely1 as has been recommended4 ,it can be done in about an hour4 ,as we are comparing the merits of different methods of getting rid of old combs1 ,i shall give mine here1 notwithstanding it may seem a little out of place4 ,the best time is a little before night4 ,the first movement is to blow under the hive some tobacco smoke 7the best means of charming them ,i ever found72 the bees1 deprived of all disposition to sting1 retreat up among the combs to get away from the smoke2 now raise the hive from the stand and carefully turn it bottom upwards1 avoiding any jar1 as some of the bees that were in the top when the smoke was introduced1 and did not get a taste1 will now come to the bottom to ascertain the cause of the disturbance2 these should receive a share1 and they will immediately return to the top1 perfectly satisfied4 ,when so many bees are in the hive1 as to be in the way in pruning1 7which if there is not it is not worth it17 get an empty hive the size of the old one1 and set it over1 stopping the holes2 now strike the lower hive with a hammer or stick1 lightly and rapidly1 five or ten minutes1 when nearly all the bees will be in the upper hive1 and set that on the stand4 ,there being now nothing in the way1 except a few scattering bees1 that ,i will warrant not to sting1 unless you pinch or get them fast4 ,illustration3 ,,tools ,,for ,,cutting ,,out ,,comb4 ,the broad one is very readily made from a piece of an old scythe1 about #ah inches long1 by any blacksmith1 by simply taking off the back1 and forming a shank for a handle at the heel4 ,the end should be ground all on one side1 and square across like a carpenter's chisel4 ,this is for cutting down the sides of the hive2 the level will keep it close the whole length1 when you wish to remove all the combs2 it being square instead of pointed or rounded1 no difficulty will be found in guiding it1--it being very thin2 no combs are mashed by crowding4 ,the other tool is for cutting off combs at the top or any other place4 ,it is merely a rod of steel three-eighths of an inch diameter1 about two feet long1 with a thin blade at right angles1 one and a half inches long1 and a quarter inch wide1 both edges sharp1 upper side bevelled1 bottom flat1 c4 ,you will find these tools very convenient2 be sure and get them by all means1 the cost cannot be compared to the advantages4 ,now with the tools just described1 proceed to remove the brood-combs from the centre of the hive4 ,the combs near the top and outside are used but little for breeding1 and are generally filled with honey2 these should be left as a good start for refilling1 but take out all that is necessary1 while you are about it2 then reverse the hives1 putting the one containing the bees under the other2 by the next morning all are up2 now put it on the stand1 and this job is done without one cent extra expense for a patent to help you1 and the bees are much better off for the honey left1 which has to be taken away with all patent plans that ,i have seen1 and this1 as has been remarked1 is not worth much1 occupied as it is with a few cocoons and bee-bread4 ,it is worth much more to the bees1 and they will give us pure comb and honey for it4 ,,use ,,of ,,tobacco ,,smoke4 ,i would not do it for fifty dollars1 the bees would sting me to death4 ,stop a moment1 if you never tried the efficacy of tobacco smoke1 you know nothing of a powerful agent2 this is the grand secret of success2 without it1 ,i admit it would be somewhat hazardous2 but with it1 ,i have done it time after time without receiving a single sting1 and no protection whatever1 for either hands or face4 ,but is there no difficulty with our sectional or changeable hive1 when this feat is to be performed8 ,the combs will be made in the two drawers similar to the dividing hive1 brood-combs in one side1 and store-combs in the other4 ,we wish to remove the one with brood-combs of course1 7as that is the one where the combs are thick and bad1 c47 ,where will the queen be8 ,with the brood-comb1 where her duty is most likely to be2 well1 this is the one we want1 and we take it out4 ,how is she to get back8 ,she must go back1 or we have three chances in four of losing the stock2 but her majesty will remain perfectly easy1 as well as some of the workers1 wherever you put the drawer4 ,,further ,,objections ,,to ,a ,,sectional ,,hive4 ,i can see no other way but to break the box1 look her up1 and help the helpless thing home1 7the chances of being stung may be here too47 ,now1 for a time at least1 they must use the other drawer for breeding1 where most of the cells are unfit4 ,there is altogether too great a proportion of drone-cells2 these1 as well as the other size1 will nearly all be much too long1 and will have to be cut off to the proper length1 a waste of wax as well as labor4 ,another thing might be set down per disadvantage of ,mr4 ,cutting's hive2 the job of getting a swarm into such hive1 at first1 ,i fancy would not be desirable to many4 ,now1 when we strike the balance1 putting expense1 difficulties1 and perplexities on one side1 and simplicity and economy on the other1 it appears like a great cry for little wool4 ,but stop a moment1 four other advantages are enumerated in its favor3 second1 third1 and fourth are borrowed from the common hive1 or are all available here when required4 ,but fifthly1 allows a column of air between the drawers and outside of the hive1 is a non-conductor of heat and cold1 c4 ,this is an advantage not possessed by the common hive2 neither does the common hive offer such advantages to the moth1 by affording such snug quarters for worms to spin their cocoons1 when they cannot be destroyed without considerable trouble4 ,,non-,,swarmers4 ,here ,i will endeavor to be brief2 ,i feel anxious to get through with this disagreeable part1 where every word ,i say will clash with somebody's interest or prejudice4 ,the merits of this hive are to obtain surplus honey with but little trouble1 which often succeeds in satisfying people of its utility4 ,the principal objection is found on the score of profit4 ,suppose we start with one1 call it worth five dollars in the beginning1 at the end of ten years it is worth no more1 very likely not as much1 7the chances of its failing1 short of that time1 we will not take into the account27 we might get annually1 say five dollars worth of surplus honey1 amounting to fifty dollars4 ,,contrast ,,of ,,profit4 ,the swarming hive1 we suppose1 will throw off one swarm annually1 and make us one dollar's worth of surplus honey1 7we will not reckon that yielded by the first swarm1 which is often more than that from the old stocks17 about one third of the average in good seasons4 ,the second year there will be two to do the same2 take this rate for ten years1 we have #eab stocks1 either of them worth as much as the non-swarmer1 and about a thousand dollars worth of surplus honey4 ,call these stocks worth five dollars each1 which makes #b1efj1 all added together will make the snug little sum of about #c1ejj1 against #ee4 ,it is not to be expected that any of us will realize profits to this extent1 but it is a forcible illustration of the advantages of the swarming hive over the non-swarmer4 ,,principle ,,of ,,swarming ,,not ,,understood4 ,but many of these non-swarmers1 'tis said1 can be changed to swarmers to suit the convenience of the apiarian--,colton's is one4 ,it is asserted that it can be made to swarm within two days at any time1 merely by taking off the six boxes or drawers that are very ingeniously attached2 as this contracts the room1 the bees are forced out4 ,now ,i will candidly confess that ,i could never get this thing to work at all4 ,of this ,i am quite positive1 that he 7,mr4 ,colton7 is either ignorant of the necessary and regular preparations that bees make before swarming1 or supposes others are4 ,mr4 ,weeks has advocated the same principle3 he says1 ,there is no queen in any stage of existence1 in the old stock1 immediately after the first swarm leaves it4 ,i have examined this matter till ,i am satisfied ,i risk but little in the bold assertion1 that not one stock in fifty will cast a swarm short of a week after commencing preparations4 ,this opinion will be adopted by whoever will take the trouble to investigate for themselves4 7,the chapter on swarming will give the necessary instructions for examining this point1 if you wish47 ,,not ,,to ,,be ,,depended ,,upon4 ,further1 these non-swarmers are not always to be depended upon as such4 ,they will sometimes throw off swarms when there is abundant room in the hive as well as in the boxes4 ,,hives ,,not ,,always ,,full ,,before ,,swarming4 ,i know ,weeks1 ,colton1 ,miner and others1 tell us the hive must be full before we need expect a swarm2 but experience is against them4 ,bees do sometimes cast a swarm before filling the hive4 ,from close observation1 ,i find when a hive is very large1 say #d1jjj cubic inches1 and is filled with comb1 the first season1 that such seldom swarm except in very good years4 ,,size ,,of ,,hives ,,needed4 ,but if such hive is only half full1 or #b1jjj inches1 it is very common for them to swarm without adding any new comb2 proving very conclusively that a hive that size1 is sufficient for all their wants in the breeding season4 ,when about #a1bjj inches only had been filled the first year1 ,i have known them to add combs until they had filled about #a1hjj1 and then cast a swarm1 proving also that a little less than #b1jjj will do for breeding4 ,i have tested the principle of giving room to prevent swarming1 a little further4 ,,an ,,experiment4 ,in the spring of '#dg1 ,i placed under five full hives1 containing #b1jjj solid or cubic inches1 as many empty ones1 the same size1 without the top4 ,i had a swarm from each2 but two had added any new comb1 and these but little4 ,if these hives had been filled to the bottom with comb in the spring1 it is very doubtful whether either of them would have swarmed4 ,the only place we can put a good stock and not expect it to swarm in good seasons1 is inside a building1 where it is perfectly dark1 and even here a few have been known to do it4 ,if we could manage to get a very large hive filled with combs1 it would perhaps be as good a preventive as any4 ,all the bees that could be reared in one season1 would have sufficient room in the combs ready made for their labors1 and there would be no necessity for their emigration4 ,but what becomes of all the bees raised in the course of several years8 ,to this question ,i shall not probably be able to give a satisfactory answer at present4 ,,bees ,,do ,,not ,,increase1 ,,if ,,full1 ,,after ,,the ,,first ,,year1 ,,in ,,same ,,hive4 ,i only will notice the fact1 that the bees somehow disappear1 and there is no more at the end of five years than at the end of one4 ,a stock of bees may contain #f1jjj the first of ,may1 and raise #bj1jjj in the course of the year2 by the first of the next ,may1 as a general thing1 not one more will be found1 even when no swarm had issued4 ,,gillmore',s ,,system ,,doubted4 ,now this fact is not known by a recent patentee from the ,state of ,maine1 7else he supposes others do not17 as he recommends placing bees in a house1 and empty hives in connection with the one containing bees1 and in a few years all will be full4 ,he has discovered a mixture to feed bees1 7to be noticed hereafter72 this may account for an unusual quantity being stored by an ordinary sized family4 ,he said another thing1 that is1 each of these added hives would contain a queen6 ,this would seem to explain away the first difficulty of the continued increase of bees1 and so it would if it did not get into another equally erroneous2 one error never made another true4 ,this idea of bees raising a queen1 merely because they have a side box to the main hive1 is contrary to all my experience1 and to the experience of all writers 7except himself7 that ,i have consulted4 ,if the principle is correct1 why not sometimes raise a queen in a box on the top or side for us8 ,i never discovered a single instance1 where two perfect queens were quietly about their duties in connection with one hive4 ,the deadly hostility of queens is known to all observing apiarians4 ,not having the least faith in the principle1 ,i will leave it4 ,,utility ,,of ,,moth-,,proof ,,hives ,,doubted4 ,as for moth-proof hives1 ,i have but little to say1 as ,i have not the least faith in one of them4 ,when ,i come to speak of that insect1 ,i will show1 ,i think1 conclusively1 that no place where bees are allowed to enter is safe from them4 ,several other perfect hives might be mentioned2 yet ,i believe that ,i have noticed the principles of each4 ,have ,i not said enough8 ,such as are not satisfied now would not be if ,i filled a volume4 ,our view of things is the result of a thousand various causes2 the most powerful is interest1 or prejudice4 ,it is said that in ,europe1 the same ingenuity is displayed in twisting and torturing the bee1 to adapt her natural instinct to unnatural tenements2 tenements invented not because the bee needs them1 but because this is a means available for a little change4 ,patent men have found the people generally too ignorant of apiarian science4 ,but let us hope that their days of prosperity in this line are about numbered4 ,,instincts ,,of ,,the ,,bee ,,always ,,the ,,same4 ,let us fully understand that the nature of the bee1 when viewed under any condition1 climate1 or circumstance1 is the same4 ,instincts first implanted by the hand of the ,creator1 have passed through millions of generations1 unimpaired1 to the present day1 and will continue unchanged through all future time1 till the last bee passes from the earth4 ,we may1 we have1 to gratify acquisitiveness1 forced them to labor under every disadvantage2 yes1 we have compelled them to sacrifice their industry1 prosperity1 and even their lives have been yielded1 but never their instincts4 ,we may destroy life1 but cannot improve or take from their nature4 ,the laws that govern them are fixed and immutable as the ,universe4 ,spring returns to its annual task2 dissolves the frost1 warms into life nature's dormant powers4 ,flowers with a smile of joy1 expand their delicate petals in grateful thanks1 while the stamens sustain upon their tapering points the anthers covered with the fertilizing pollen1 and the pistil springs from a cup of liquid nectar1 imparting to each passing breeze delicious fragrance1 inviting the bee as with a thousand tongues to the sumptuous banquet4 ,she does not need an artificial stimulus from man1 as an inducement to partake of the feast2 without his aid or assistance she visits each wasting cup of sweetness1 and secures the tiny drop1 while the superabundant farina1 dislodged from the nodding anthers1 covers her body1 to be brushed together and kneaded into bread4 ,all she requires at the hands of man1 is a suitable storehouse for her treasures4 ,in good seasons1 her nature ,will prompt the gathering for her own use an over supply4 ,this surplus man may appropriate to his own use1 without detriment to his bees1 providing his management is in accordance with their nature4 ,,profit ,,the ,,object4 ,to give the bees all necessary advantages1 and obtain the greatest possible amount of profit1 with the least possible expense1 has been my study for years4 ,i might keep a few stocks for amusement1 even if it was attended with no dollar and cent profit1 but the number would be very small2 ,i will honestly confess then1 that profit is the actuating principle with me4 ,i have a strong suspicion that the majority of readers have similar motives4 ,i am sure1 then1 that all of us with these views1 will consider it a pity1 when a stock produces five dollars worth of surplus honey1 to be obliged to pay three or four of it for patent and other useless fixings4 ,,common ,,hive ,,recommended4 ,i would not exchange the hive ,i have used for the last ten years for any patent ,i ever saw1 if furnished gratis4 ,i will guarantee that it affords means to obtain surplus honey1 as much in quantity and in any way which fancy may dictate1 whether in wood or glass1 and what is more than all1 it shall cost nothing for the privilege of using4 ,,size ,,important4 ,after deciding what kind of hive we want1 the next important point is the size4 ,dr4 ,bevan1 an ,english author1 recommends a size eleven and three-eighths inches square1 by nine deep in the clear1 making only about #a1bjj inches1 and so few pounds necessary to winter the bees1 that when ,i read it1 ,i found myself wondering if the ,english inch and pound were the same as ours4 ,,small ,,hives ,,more ,,liable ,,to ,,accidents4 ,at all events1 ,i think it too small for our ,yankee bees in any place4 ,we must remember1 that the queen needs room for all her eggs1 and the bees need space to store their winter provisions2 for reasons before given1 this should be in one apartment4 ,when this is too small1 the consequences will be1 their winter supply of food is liable to run out4 ,the swarms from such will be smaller and the stock much more liable to accidents1 which soon finish them off4 ,,apt ,,to ,,deceive4 ,yet ,i can imagine how one can be deceived by such a small hive1 and recommend it strongly2 especially if patented4 ,suppose you locate a large swarm in a hive near the size of ,dr4 ,bevan's2 the bees would occupy nearly all the room with brood-combs2 now if you put on boxes1 and as soon as filled put on empty ones1 the amount of surplus honey would be great2 very satisfactory for the first summer1 but in a year or two your little hive is gone4 ,this result will be in proportion as we enlarge our hives1 until we arrive at the opposite extreme4 ,,unprofitable ,,if ,,too ,,large4 ,if too large1 more honey will be stored than is required for their winter use4 ,it is evident a portion might have been taken1 if it had been stored in boxes4 ,the swarms will not be proportionably large when they do issue1 which is seldom--but there is this advantage1 they last a long time1 and are but little profit in surplus honey1 or swarms4 ,,correct ,,size ,,between ,,two ,,extremes4 ,between the two extremes1 like most other cases1 is found the correct place4 ,a hive twelve inches square1 each way1 inside1 has been recommended as the correct size4 ,here are #a1gbh cubic inches4 ,this1 ,i think1 is sufficient for many places1 as the queen probably has all the room necessary for depositing her eggs2 and as the swarms are more numerous1 and nearly as large as from hives much larger2 also1 there is room for honey sufficient to carry the bees through the winter1 at least1 in many sections south of #dj degrees latitude1 where the winter is somewhat short4 ,,size ,,for ,,warm ,,latitudes4 ,this size will also do in this latitude 7#db degrees17 in some seasons1 but not at all in others4#c ,not one swarm in fifty will consume twenty-five lbs4 of honey through the winter1 that is1 from the last of ,september to the first of ,april1 7six months74 ,the average loss in that time is about eighteen lbs42 but the critical time is later2 about the last of ,may1 or first of ,june1 in many places4 #c ,when ,mr4 ,miner wrote his manual recommending this size1 #a1gbh inches1 for all situations1 it should be remembered he lived on ,long ,island4 ,since removing to ,oneida ,county in this ,state1 either his own experience or some other cause has changed his views1 as he now recommends my size1 viz41 #b1jjj inches4 ,,larger ,,hive ,,more ,,safe ,,for ,,long ,,winters ,,or ,,backward ,,spring4 ,about the first of ,april they commence collecting pollen and rearing their young2 by the middle of ,may all good stocks will occupy nearly1 if not quite all1 their brood-combs for that purpose1 but little honey is obtained before fruit blossoms appear2 when these are gone1 no more of any amount is obtained until clover appears1 which is some ten days later4 7,i am speaking now particularly of this section2 ,i am aware it is very different in other places1 where different flowers exist47 ,now if this season of fruit flowers should be accompanied by high winds1 or cold rainy weather1 but little honey is obtained2 and our bees have a numerous brood on hand that must be fed4 ,in this emergency1 if no honey is on hand of the previous year1 a famine ensues2 they destroy their drones1 perhaps some of their brood1 and for aught ,i know put the old bees on short allowance4 ,this ,i do know1 that the whole family has actually starved at this season2 sometimes in small hives4 ,this of course depends on the season2 when favorable1 nothing of the kind occurs4 ,prudence therefore dictates the necessity of a provision for this emergency1 by making the hive a little larger for northern latitudes1 as a little more honey will be stored to take them through this critical period4 ,from a series of experiments closely observed4 #b1jjj ,,inches ,,safe ,,for ,,this ,,section4 ,i am satisfied that #b1jjj inches in the clear1 is the proper size for safety in this section1 and consequently1 profit4 ,on an average1 swarms from this size are as large as any4 ,the dimensions should be uniform in all cases1 whatever size is decided on4 ,it is folly to accommodate each swarm with a hive corresponding in size2 a very small family this year1 may be very large next1 and a very large one1 very small1 c4 ,a queen belonging to a small swarm will be capable of depositing as many eggs1 as another belonging to a barrel full4 ,a small family able to get through the winter and spring1 may be expected by another year to be as numerous as any4 ,,kind ,,of ,,wood1 ,,width ,,of ,,board1 ,,etc4 ,of the kinds of wood for hives1 pine is preferable1 still other kinds will do2 ,i have no faith in bees liking one kind better than another1 and less likely to leave on that account4 ,hemlock is cheaper1 and used to a great extent2 when perfectly sound is as good as anything1 but is very liable to split1 even after the bees have been in them some time4 ,it should be used only when better wood cannot be obtained4 ,bass wood when used for hives should always be painted1 and then will be very liable to warp from the moisture arising from the bees inside4 ,when not painted outside1 and allowed to get wet1 if only for a few hours1 so much moisture is absorbed that it will bend outward1 and cleave from the combs and crack them4 ,a few days of dry weather will relieve the outside of water1 and the inside kept moist by the bees1 the bending will be reversed1 and the combs pressed inward1 keeping the bees fixing that which will not stay fixed4 ,perhaps there is wood as suitable or better than pine1 but it is not as common4 ,,shape ,,of ,,no ,,consequence4 ,boards should be selected1 if possible1 that will be the proper width to make the hive about square1 of the right size4 ,say twelve inches square1 inside1 by fourteen deep4 ,i prefer this shape to any other1 yet it is not all important4 ,i have had some ten inches square by twenty in length2 they were awkward looking1 but that was all1 ,i could discover no difference in their prosperity4 ,also1 ,i have had them twelve inches deep by thirteen square1 with the same result4 ,hence1 if we avoid extremes1 and give the required room1 the shape can make but little difference4 ,it has been recommended to plane the boards for hives1 inside and out2 but bees1 when first put into such hive1 find much difficulty in holding fast until they get their combs started1 hence this trouble is worse than useless4 ,,directions ,,for ,,making ,,hives4 ,if hives are not desired of the cheapest possible construction1 the outside may be planed and painted2 but it is doubtful whether strict economy would demand it4 ,yet a painted hive appears so much better1 that it ought to be done1 especially as the paint adds almost enough to its durability to pay the expense4 ,the color may be whatever fancy dictates2 the moth will not probably be attracted by one color more than another4 ,white is affected the least by the sun in hot weather4 ,lime is put on as white-wash1 annually1 by many1 as a protection against insects4 ,when hives are not painted1 the grain should never be crosswise1 having the width of boards form the height2 not that the bees would have any dislike to such1 but nails will not hold firmly1 they draw out in a few years4 ,the size1 shape1 materials1 and manner of putting together1 are now sufficiently understood1 for what ,i want4 ,sticks half an inch in diameter1 should cross each way through the centre1 to help support the combs4 ,a hole about an inch diameter in the front side1 half way to the top1 is a great convenience for the bees to enter when coming home heavy laden4 ,it now remains to make the top1 cover1 and boxes1 7the bottom-board will be described in another chapter47 ,the tops should be all alike2 boards fifteen inches square are just the right size2 three-fourths of an inch is the best thickness1 7inch will do27 plane the upper side1 rabbet out around the edge of the upper side one inch wide1 and three-eighths deep2 this will leave the top inside the rabbeting1 just thirteen inches4 ,,size ,,of ,,cap ,,and ,,boxes4 ,a box for a cover or cap1 that size inside1 will fit any hive4 ,the height of this box should be seven inches4 ,of course other sizes will do1 but it is best to commence with one that we can adhere to uniformly1 and no vexations arise by covers not fitting exactly1 c4 ,i think this size is as near correct as we shall be likely to get2 we want all the room in the boxes that the majority of our stocks demand for storing in a yield of honey1#d at the same time not be necessitated to give too much of the room in the height4 ,they will commence work in a box five inches high1 much sooner than one seven or eight4 ,to give the requisite room1 and have the boxes less than five inches high1 would require more than thirteen inches on the top1 this would make the hive too much out of shape2 it would appear top-heavy4 #d ,i have added a side box occasionally1 but it has seldom paid me for the trouble4 ,,miner',s ,,hive4 ,miner's ,equilateral ,hive has a cap somewhat smaller than this in diameter2 consequently1 if we have the requisite room1 it must be in its height4 ,but by making the cap of his a little larger1 and a few trifling alterations1 it would do very well for a patent4 ,and if any one must have a patent hive1 my advice is to get that2 it costs but two dollars for the right of using1 and is nearer what we want for bees1 than any ,i ever saw4 ,i prefer rabbeting around the edge of the top1 instead of nailing on a thin board the size of the inside of the cover1 with room for a slide under it2 it affords too nice a place for worms to spin their cocoons4 ,also1 without the rabbeting water may get under the cap1 and pass along the top till a hole lets it among the bees4 ,as for slides1 ,i do not approve of them at all2 in shutting off communication1 it is almost certain to crush a few bees4 ,this makes them irritable for a week2 they are unnecessary for me1 at least4 ,we will now finish the hive4 ,,directions ,,for ,,making ,,holes4 ,after the top is got out as directed1 strike a line through the centre1 three and a quarter inches from this1 make another on each side1 now measure on one of the last lines1 two and a half inches for the first hole1 two inches for the next1 and so on till five are marked on this1 and the same number on the other side1 ten in all2 these holes should be about an inch diameter1 a pattern three and a quarter inches wide1 and thirteen in length1 with places for holes marked on it1 will save time when many are made4 ,when this top is nailed on1 the hive is ready4 ,a less number of holes is often used1 and one is thought by some to be sufficient2 experience has satisfied me that the more room bees have to enter boxes1 the less reluctance is manifested in commencing their work in them2 but here is another extreme to be avoided3 when the holes are much larger1 or more of them1 or even one very large one1 the queen is very apt to go into the boxes and deposit her eggs1 which renders the comb tough1 dark1 c41 also bee-bread is stored near the brood4 ,dr4 ,bevan's and ,miner's cross-bar hives are objectionable on this account1 they offer too free access to the boxes2 we want all the room that will answer1 and no more4 ,a ,,suggestion4 ,mr4 ,miner's cross-bar hive is intended to make the bees construct all straight combs1 and probably will do it4 ,but the disadvantage of bee-bread and brood in the boxes will not be made up by straight combs4 ,for the benefit of those who have been made to believe straight combs all important1 and perhaps have purchased the right to make the hive1 and had some constructed1 and have found bee-bread in their surplus honey1 ,i would suggest an improvement1 7that is1 if it is thought the straight combs will pay4 ,if you have not the right for the cross-bar hive1 and you wish to use it1 ,i would say1 buy the right1 and remove all grounds of complaint with him47 ,put in the bars and hive your bees as he directs4 ,after all the combs are started1 instead of setting the open bottom boxes 7which are also unsuitable for sending to market7 directly on the bars as he recommends1 take off the cloth1 and with screws fasten on a top with ten holes1 that ,i have just described2 and then you will have the straight combs1 and surplus honey in the boxes pure4 ,,glass ,,boxes ,,preferred4 ,having told how ,i make a hive1 ,i will now give some reasons for preferring a particular kind of boxes4 ,i have taken great quantities of honey to market1 put up in every style1 such as tumblers1 glass jars1 glass boxes1 wooden boxes with glass ends1 and boxes all wood4 ,i have found the square glass boxes the most profitable2 the honey in such appears to the best possible advantage1 so much so1 that the majority of purchasers prefer paying for the box at the same rate as the honey1 than the wood box1 and have the tare allowed4 ,this rate of selling boxes always pays the cost1 while we get nothing for the wood4 ,another advantage in this kind of boxes is1 while being filled1 the progress can be watched1 and the time they are finished known precisely1 when they should be taken off1 as every day they remain after that1 soils the purity of the combs4 ,,glass ,,boxes--,,how ,,to ,,make4 ,directions for making4--,select half-inch boards of pine or other soft light wood1 cut the length twelve and three-quarters inches1 width six and three-eighths inches1 dress down the thickness to three-eighths or less1 two pieces for a box1 top and bottom1 in the bottom bore five holes throughout the centre to match with those in the top of the hive1 7the pattern used in marking the top of hives is just the one to mark these74 ,next1 get out the corner posts1 five-eighths of an inch square1 and five inches in length2 with a saw1 thick enough to fit the glass1 cut a channel length-wise on two sides1 one-fourth of an inch deep1 one-eighth from the corner1 for the glass4 ,a small lath nail through each corner of the bottom into the posts will hold them2 it is now ready for the glass--#ajx#ab is the right size to get--have them cut through the centre the longest way for the sides1 and they are right1 and again the other way1 five and five-eighths long for the ends4 ,these can now be slipped into the channels of the posts1 and the top nailed on like the bottom1 and the box is ready4 ,,guide-,,combs ,,necessary4 ,it will be found a great advantage1 previous to nailing on the top1 to stick fast to it some pieces of guide-combs in the direction you wish the bees to work4 ,they are also an inducement for them to commence several days sooner1 than if they had to start combs for themselves2#e a piece an inch square will do2 it is well to start every comb you want in the box2 two inches apart is about the right distance to look well4 ,to make these pieces hold fast1 melt one edge by the fire1 or candle1 or melt some bees-wax1 and dip one edge in that1 and apply it before cooling2 with a little practice you can make them stick without difficulty4 ,for a supply of such combs1 save all empty1 clean1 white pieces you can1 when removing combs from a hive4 #e ,a line of bees-wax made with a guide-plate1 or other means1 is found to be of but little use4 ,if you have any way superior to this for making glass boxes1 so much the better1 make them so by all means3 ,the best way is as good as any4 ,i give my method to be used only when better is not convenient4 ,if you sell honey1 ,i think you will find it an advantage to have glass boxes made in some way4 ,two of this size when full weigh #be lbs4 ,if preferred1 four boxes six and three-eighths inches square1 can be used for a hive instead of two2 the expense of making is a little more for the same number of lbs41 yet1 when it is in market1 a few customers will prefer this size4 ,,wood ,,boxes4 ,for home consumption1 the wood-box will answer equally well for all purposes of obtaining the honey1 but will give no chance to watch the progress of the bees1 unless a glass is inserted for the purpose1 and then it will need a door to keep it dark1 or a cover over the whole like the one for glass boxes1 may be put on4 ,wood boxes are generally made with open bottom1 and set on the top of the hive4 ,a passage for the bees out of the box to the open air is unnecessary1 and worse than useless4 ,they like to store their honey as far from the entrance as possible4 ,unless crowded for room1 they will not store much there when such entrances are made4 ,whether we intend to consume our surplus honey or not1 it is as well to have the hives and covers made in a manner that we can use glass1 when we are likely to have some to spare4 ,i am not sure1 but it would pay to make hives in this way1 even if glass boxes were never used2 the rabbeting prevents light as well as water from passing under the cover2 imagine a box set on a plain board nailed on for a top1 without the rabbeting2 the warping or bending admits the light and water1 especially when hives are out in the weather1 7and ,i shall not recommend any other way of keeping them47 ,,cover ,,for ,,hives4 ,i have termed the cap or box a cover2 but this should also be covered with a board laid on1 if nothing else4 ,a good roof for each hive can be made by fastening two boards together like the roof of a building2 let it be about #ah by #bd inches2 it being loose1 can be changed in accordance with the season2 in spring1 let the sun strike the hive2 but in hot weather let the longest end project over the south side1 c4 ,you can ornament this hive1 if you choose1 by mouldings or dentals1 under the top1 where it projects over the body of the hive1 also the cap can have the top projected a little and receive the same addition4 ,,jars ,,and ,,tumblers--,,how ,,prepared4 ,when jars1 tumblers1 or other vessels1 that are all glass1 are used1 it is absolutely necessary to fasten as many pieces of combs as you wish made1 in the top1 for a beginning1 or fasten a piece of wood there2 as they seldom commence building on glass1 without a start4 ,some of you may have seen paraded at our fairs1 or in the public parts of some of our cities1 hives containing tumblers1 some of them neatly filled1 others empty1 and this meagre sentence written upon them1 not to be filled6 ,pretending to govern the bees1 as the juggler sometimes does his tricks1 by mysterious incantations6 ,i once encountered an agent of this humbug1 and modestly suggested to him that ,i had a counter charm3 that ,i could put a tumbler on his hive and it would be filled if the others were1 however much he might forbid it by written charms6 ,he saw at a glance how the matter stood2 ,i was not the customer he wanted1 and intimated that the show was only intended for the extreme verdancy of most visitors4 ,it no doubt assisted in displaying his profound knowledge in bee management1 which he wished to establish1 as he had a little work on the subject to sell1 also hives1 and bees4 ,the reader no doubt will guess as ,i did1 the reason that those tumblers were not filled1 was because no combs were put in for a start4 ,,perfect ,,observatory ,,hive ,,described4 ,there are many things pertaining to bees that cannot be properly examined and understood1 without a glass hive of some sort4 ,yet a perfect observatory hive containing but one comb1 is not a perfect hive for the bees4 ,we can see very well what the bees are doing1 but it is not a tenement they would choose if left to themselves4 ,it forces them to labor in an unnatural manner1 is unsuitable for wintering bees1 and otherwise but little profit4 ,if the satisfaction of witnessing some of their operations more perfectly than in glass hives of another kind will not pay1 it is doubtful if we get it4 ,i will describe as briefly as possible4 ,two frames or sashes about two and a half feet square1 containing glass1 are so fastened together as to leave room for only one comb between them1 about an inch and three-fourths apart4 ,a comb of this size will not support itself by the top and edges2 hence1 it is necessary to put in numerous cross-bars to assist in supporting it4 ,outside the glass are doors to keep the whole dark1 to be opened when we wish to inspect proceedings4 ,under the bottom is a board or frame1 to keep it in an upright position1 c4 ,probably but few will be induced to make one4 ,i will therefore describe another2 a hive that ,i think will pay better4 ,,one ,,like ,,common ,,hive ,,preferred4 ,if we expect to know what bees are doing in ordinary hives1 we must have one similar in every respect1 in size1 shape1 number of bees1 c4 ,the construction of royal cells will be watched by most observers with the greatest interest2 now these are generally on one edge of the combs4 ,the bees leave a space half an inch or more between the edges of the combs and one side of the hive1 near half the length of it1 apparently for no other purpose but to have room for these cells1 as the other edges of the same combs are generally attached to the hive at the bottom4 ,,what ,,may ,,be ,,seen4 ,now instead of having one piece or pane of glass in the side of several hives1 ,i would recommend having one or more with glass on every side2 because we might have it on three sides1 and not the fourth2 and this might contain all the queen cells1 and we should miss an important sight4 ,there are many other things to be witnessed in such a hive4 ,the queen may be often seen depositing her eggs6 ,we may see the workers detach the scales of wax from their abdomen1 and apply them to the combs during the process of construction1 see them deposit pollen from their legs1 store their honey1 feed the queen1 each other1 their young brood1 seal over cells containing brood1 honey1 c4 ,it is further useful as a guide for putting boxes on other hives1 7that is1 if it is a good one1 which it should be72 we can easily ascertain whether our bees are gaining or losing4 ,,directions ,,for ,,making ,,glass ,,hive4 ,my method of making them is as follows3 ,the top is like those for other hives1 fifteen inches square1 adapted to boxes and cover4 ,this hive we want to be as profitable as any1 giving us surplus honey1 and swarms like others4 ,four posts are then got out1 two inches square1 and thirteen in length2 care should be taken to have the ends perfectly square4 ,a frame is then to be made1 just fourteen inches square outside1 for the bottom2 the pieces are one inch thick1 by two in width1 halved together at the corners4 ,a guage-mark is then made around the under side of the top1 half an inch from the edge1 a post is then set inside of each corner of this mark1 and thoroughly nailed1 the bottom is nailed on with the posts even with the outside corners4 ,four pieces an inch thick1 and an inch and a half wide1 are fitted between the posts1 even with the guage-mark on the top4 ,sixteen strips1 about one quarter by half an inch1 are got out1 eight to be ten1 and eight twelve inches long4 ,a gauge-mark one inch from posts1 bottom1 c41 is the place to nail these strips2 very small nails or tacks will hold them4 ,the panes of glass are to rest against them1 which are held in their places by small pieces of tin1 or brads4 ,the doors are the size of the glass1 #ajx#ab1 about three-fourths of an inch thick2 these doors are cut a little too short1 and the pieces1 to prevent warping1 are nailed on the ends2 these are hung to a post on one side1 and secured by a button on the other4 ,on two opposite sides inside the posts1 half way up1 two strips1 half an inch by three quarters1 are nailed1 with holes in them for the cross-sticks2 one way is enough if you have guide-combs for a start1 like those recommended for boxes1 so that the sheets will be at right angles with them2 otherwise1 let the sticks cross both ways1 about three each way will be needed1 as the glass at the edges is not so good a support as wood4 ,the cap can be made of half inch boards2 the top to project over like the hive1 or let it be a little more than half an inch1 it will admit a heavier moulding1 which should surround it here1 as well as at the top of the hive1 or if it is prefered1 dentals can be used1 and look equally well--when no ornament is wanted1 omit it4 ,but painting seems necessary for such hives1 to prevent warping1 and the swelling of the doors in wet weather2 these want to open and shut without rubbing or sticking1 otherwise we disturb the bees every time a door is stirred4 ,putty should not be used to hold the glass1 as the bees in the course of a few years will cover it with propolis2 it is then necessary to take it out1 and scrape1 clean1 and return it1 when1 if fastened with putty1 it would be difficult2 cold weather is the time for this operation4 ,i am aware that a hive can be more substantially made than the one here described2 but ,i have endeavored to make one as cheap as possible1 and if properly made1 will answer4 ,the cost will be much less than many patents1 and the satisfaction much more1 at least1 with many4 ,when our hive contains a swarm of bees1 and they are thoroughly in operation1 we must not let them pass out at the bottom on every side1 as they are frequently allowed to do from other hives2 because1 should one come out a little excited in consequence of a slight jar1 accidentally given the hive1 on opening the door or some other way1 and should find our face within a foot of their house1 peering in the window among their works1 it would be very likely to give us a gentle hint that it was a mark of low breeding1 that we were not wanted there at all1 and that it was none of our business what they were doing4 ,to prevent this as far as possible1 a bottom-board1 somewhat different from the common one1 is needed4 ,four posts of chestnut or other lasting wood1 about two inches square1 are driven into the earth in the form of a square1 far enough apart to come under the corners of the bottom-board1 7fifteen inches17 and high enough for convenience when looking into the hive4 ,the ends of these posts are to be perfectly level1 and to which the bottom is to be nailed fast4 ,as the hive is to sit perfectly close to the board1 a passage must be made through it1 as well as means for ventilation in hot weather1 without raising the hive for that purpose4 ,it requires a board about fifteen inches square1 planed smooth1 the ends clamped to prevent warping or splitting2 a portion of the centre is taken out1 say six inches by ten1 and wire cloth nailed over1 four-ounce tacks will hold it1 fasten it just enough to keep the bees from getting through2 very likely it will want to be taken off occasionally and cleaned from the propolis that will be spread over it4 ,it is easiest done in freezing weather4 ,take an edge in each hand1 and rock the wires a few times out of square1 and it will readily crumble and fall out4 ,in warm weather it must be scalded or burnt off4 ,to close this space1 a moving slide is fixed in grooves under-side1 fastened to the posts or board4 ,the slide is to be moved in accordance with the weather1 when cold1 close it1 when hot1 withdraw it1 and give the bees as much air as possible1 without raising the hive1 the whole of such space is as much ventilation as ordinary hives raised an inch4 7,wire cloth is needed for other purposes1 it is best to procure some1 even at considerable trouble and expense47 ,on the side of the board intended for the front1 two inches from the edge of the wire cloth1 a passage is cut for the bees1 three-eights of an inch wide1 by eleven in length4 ,but how is the bees to get to this place1 so inconvenient1 something is needed to assist them8 ,certainly1 ,sir2 an alighting board1 eleven inches wide1 and about two feet long1 7not planed71 is placed at an angle of forty-five degrees1 between the two front posts of your stand1 the upper end passing under the bottom1 far enough back2 to be just even with the back-side of the passage for the bees4 ,the bees alight on this board1 and walk up into the hive without difficulty4 ,when the bees are at work pretty freely1 and a door of this hive is opened1 those that are about departing will be very likely to get on the glass1 instead of through the opening at the bottom2 seeing the light through the glass1 they endeavor to escape by the nearest route4 ,when so many gather here as to prevent a good view1 and you wish to observe further1 shut the door a moment and they will leave through their own passage1 when you can open your door again1 for a short time4 ,after the hive is filled with combs1 the number attracted to the glass on opening a door will be much less4 ,the plate on the preceding page represents a glass hive1 cover1 and stand4 ,the common hive can be made equally ornamental1 if you choose2 this kind of stand is unnecessary for them4 ,i use such as are recommended on page #ach4 ,,chapter ,,iii4 ,,breeding4 ,,imperfectly ,,understood4 ,the time that bees commence raising their young brood is but imperfectly understood by most people4 ,many persons that have kept them for years1 have bestowed so little attention on this point1 that they are unable to tell at what time they commence1 how they progress1 or when they cease4 ,a kind of an idea that one swarm1 and occasionally two or three1 are reared sometime in ,june1 or fore part of summer1 is about the extent of their reflections on the subject4 ,whether the drones deposit the eggs1 or that a portion of the workers are females1 and each raise a young one or two1 or whether the king bee is the chap for laying eggs1 is a matter beyond their ability to answer4 ,it is but a few years since1 that a correspondent of a ,journal of ,agriculture denied the existence of a queen bee1 giving the best reasons he had1 no doubt1 that is1 he had never seen one4 ,but bee-keepers of this class are so few1 it is unnecessary to waste time to convince them2 suffice it to say1 that a queen exists with every prosperous swarm1 and all apiarians with much pretensions to science1 acknowledge the fact1 also1 that she is the mother of the whole family4 ,the period at which they commence depositing eggs probably depends on the strength of the colony1 amount of honey on hand1 c41 and not the time they commence gathering food4 ,,good ,,stock ,,seldom ,,without ,,brood4 ,i once removed the bees from a hive on the tenth of ,january1 and found brood amounting to about five hundred1 sealed over1 and others in every stage of growth down to the egg4 ,this hive had been in the house1 and kept warm2 it will doubtless be supposed that being kept warm was the cause2 but this is not a solitary instance4 ,a neighbor lost a hive the fourteenth ,february1 in weather cold enough to seal the entrance with ice1 and smother the bees4 ,i assisted to remove the combs1 and found young brood in abundance1 from the perfect bee1 through all stages of growth4 ,this stock had been in the cold all winter4 ,i have further noticed1 when sweeping out the litter under the hives early in spring1 say the first of ,march1 that young bees would often be found under the best stocks4 ,hence it appears there is but little time1 and perhaps none1 when our best stocks have no broods4 ,yet stocks1 when very weak1 do not commence till warm weather4 ,it seems that a certain degree of warmth is necessary to perfect the brood1 which a small family cannot generate4 ,,how ,,small ,,stocks ,,commence4 ,the first eggs are deposited in the centre of the cluster of bees1 in a small family2 it may not be in the centre of the hive in all cases2 but the middle of the cluster is the warmest place1 wherever located4 ,here the queen will first commence2 a few cells1 or a space not larger than a dollar1 is first used1 those exactly opposite on the same comb are next occupied4 ,if the warmth of the hive will allow1 whether mild weather produces it1 or the family be large enough to generate that which is artificial1 appears to make no difference2 she will then take the next combs exactly corresponding with the first commencement but not quite as large a place is used as in the first comb4 ,the circle of eggs in the first is then enlarged1 and more are added in the next1 c41 continuing to spread to the next combs1 keeping the distance to the outside of the circle of eggs1 to the centre or place of beginning1 about equal on all sides1 until they occupy the outside comb4 ,long before the outside comb is occupied1 the first eggs deposited are matured1 and the queen will return to the centre1 and use these cells again1 but is not so particular this time to fill so many in such exact order as at first4 ,this is the general process of small or medium sized families4 ,i have removed the bees from such1 in all stages of breeding1 and always found their proceedings as described4 ,,different ,,with ,,larger ,,ones4 ,but with very large families1 their proceedings are different3 as any part of the cluster of bees is warm enough for breeding1 there is less necessity for economizing heat1 and having all the eggs confined to one small spot1 some unoccupied cells will be found among the brood2 a few will contain honey and bee-bread4 ,,how ,,pollen ,,is ,,stored ,,in ,,the ,,breeding ,,season4 ,but in the height of the breeding season1 a circle of cells nearly all bee-bread1 an inch or two wide1 will border the sheets of comb containing brood4 ,as bee-bread is probably the principal food of the young bee1 it is thus very convenient4 ,when pollen is abundant1 and the swarm is in prosperous condition1 they soon reach the outside sheets of comb with the brood4 ,at this period1 when the hive is about full1 and the queen is forced to the outside combs to find a place for her eggs1 it is interesting to witness operations in a glass hive4 ,i have seen her several times during one day1 on the same piece of comb 7next the glass74 ,the light has no immediate effect on her ,highness1 as she will quietly continue about her duty1 not the least embarrassed by curious eyes at the window4 ,before depositing an egg1 she enters the cell head first1 probably to ascertain if it is in proper condition to receive it2 as a cell part filled with bee-bread or honey is never used4 ,if the area of combs is small1 or the family is small1 and cannot protect a large space with the necessary heat1 she will often deposit two1 and sometimes three1 in one cell 7the supernumeraries ,i suppose are removed by the workers74 ,but under prosperous circumstances1 with a hive of suitable size1 c41 this emergency is avoided4 ,,operation ,,of ,,laying ,,and ,,the ,,eggs ,,described4 ,when a cell is in a condition to receive the egg1 on withdrawing her head she immediately curves her abdomen1 and inserts it a few seconds4 ,after leaving it1 an egg may be seen attached by one end to the bottom2 about the sixteenth of an inch in length1 slightly curved1 very small1 nearly uniform the whole length1 abruptly rounded at the ends1 semi-transparent1 and covered with a very thin and extremely delicate coat1 often breaking with the slightest touch4 ,after the egg has been about three days in the cell1 a small white worm may be seen coiled in the bottom1 surrounded with a milky-like substance1 which is its food1 without doubt4 ,how this food is prepared1 is merely guess-work4 ,the hypothesis of its being chiefly composed of pollen1 ,i have no objection to2 as it is sufficiently proved by the quantities that accumulate in hives that lose their queen1 and rear no brood 7that is1 when a requisite number of workers are so left74 ,the workers may be seen entering the cell every few minutes1 probably1 to supply this food4#f #f ,when the comb in our glass hive is new1 and white1 these operations can be seen more distinctly than when very old and dark4 ,,time ,,from ,,the ,,egg ,,to ,,the ,,perfect ,,bee4 ,in about six days it is sealed over with a convex waxen lid4 ,it is now hidden from our sight for about twelve days1 when it bites off the cover1 and comes forth a perfect bee4 ,the period from the egg to the perfect bee varies from twenty to twenty-four days2 average about twenty-two for workers1 twenty-four for drones4 ,the temperature of the hive will vary some with the atmosphere2 it is also governed by the number of bees4 ,a low temperature probably retards the development1 while a high one facilitates it4 ,you may have seen accounts of the assiduous attentions given to the young bee when it first emerges from the cell3 'tis said they lick it all over1 feed it with honey1 c41 desperately pleased with their new acquisition4 ,,rough ,,treatment ,,of ,,the ,,young ,,bee4 ,now1 if you expect to see anything of this1 you must watch a little closer than ,i have4 ,i have seen hundreds when biting their way out4 ,instead of care or notice1 they often receive rather rough treatment3 the workers1 intent on other matters1 will sometimes come in contact with one part way out the cell1 with force sufficient to almost dislocate its neck2 yet they do not stop to see if any harm is done1 or beg pardon4 ,the little sufferer1 after this rude lesson1 scrambles back as soon as possible out of the way2 enlarges the prison door a little1 and attempts again1 with perhaps the same success3 a dozen trials are often made before they succeed4 ,when it does actually leave1 it seems like a stranger in a multitude1 with no friend to counsel1 or mother to direct4 ,it wanders about uncared for and unheeded1 and rarely finds one sufficiently benevolent to bestow even the necessaries of life2 but does sometimes4 ,it is generally forced to learn the important lesson of looking out for itself1 the day it leaves the cradle4 ,a cell containing honey is sought for1 where its immediate wants are all supplied4 ,,guess ,,work4 ,the time before it is ready to leave the hive for honey1 ,i might guess would be two or three days4 ,others have said it would leave the day it left the cell2 but ,i guess they guess at this point4 ,they tell us1 too1 that after the bees seal over the cells containing the larvae1 they immediately commence spinning their cocoons1 which takes just about thirty-six hours4 ,i think it very likely2 but when ,i admit it1 ,i cannot imagine how it was ascertained2--the faculty of looking through a mill-stone ,i do not possess1 and it requires about the same optical penetration to look into one of these cells after it is sealed over1 as it is all perfect darkness4 ,suppose we drive away the bees and open the cell1 to give us a look at the interior3 the little insect stops its labor in a moment1 probably from the effect of air and light4 ,i never could detect one in its labor4 ,suppose we open these cells every hour after sealing2 can we tell anything about their progress by the appearance of these cocoons1 or even tell when they are finished8 ,the thickness of a dozen would not exceed common writing paper4 ,when a subject is obscure1 or difficult to ascertain1 like this1 why not tell us how they found out the particulars2 and if they were guessed at1 be honest1 and say so8 ,when the bee leaves the cell1 a cocoon remains1 and that is about all we know about it4 ,,terms ,,applied ,,to ,,young ,,bees4 ,the young bee1 when it first leaves the egg1 is termed grub1 maggot1 worm1 or larva2 from this state it changes to the shape of the perfect bee1 which is said to be three days after finishing the cocoon2 from the time of this change1 till it is ready to leave the cell1 the terms nymph1 pupa1 and chrysalis1 are applied4 ,the lid of the drone's cell is rather more convex than that of the worker's1 and when removed by the young bee to work its way out1 is left nearly perfect2 being cut off around the edges1 a good coat or lining of silk keeps it whole2 while the covering of the worker's cell is mostly wax1 and is pretty well cut to pieces by the time the bee gets out4 ,the covering to the queen's cell is like the drone's1 but larger in diameter1 and thicker1 being lined with a little more silk4 ,,discrepancy ,,in ,,time ,,in ,,rearing ,,brood ,,as ,,given ,,by ,,huber4 ,we are told by most writers1 the period of time necessary to perfect from the egg1 the three different kinds of bees4 ,huber leads the way1 and the rest1 supposing him to be right1 repeat in substance his account as follows3 ,that the whole time necessary to perfect a queen from the egg is sixteen days1 the worker twenty1 and the drone twenty-four days2 ,huber 7as quoted by ,harpers7 gives the time of each stage of development belonging to each kind of bee2 but is rather unfortunate in arithmetic2 the items1 or stages1 when added together1 do not prove1 as the school-boys say2 that is1 he gains time by making his bee by degrees4 ,he says1 first1 of the worker1 ,it remains three days in the egg1 five in the grub state1 it is thirty-six hours in spinning its cocoon2 in three days it changes to a nymph1 passes six in that form1 and then comes forth a perfect bee4 ,how do the items add8 ,the egg1 #c days4 ,grub1 #e ,spinning cocoon1 #a-a_/b ,changing to a nymph1 #c ,in that form1 #f ------- #ah-a_/b days4 ,one and a half days short4 ,we will next see how the figures with the royal insect match2 recollect sixteen days are all she has allowed2 then1 of the different stages1 three days in the egg1 is five a worm1 when the bees close its cell1 and it immediately begins its cocoon1 which is finished in twenty-four hours4 ,during eleven days1 and even sixteen hours of the twelfth1 it remains in a state of complete repose4 ,its transformation into a nymph then takes place1 in which state four days and part of the fifth are passed4 ,now let us add the items3 ,the egg1 #c days4 ,a worm1 #e ,spinning a cocoon1 7#bd hours71 #a ,reposes eleven days and #af hours1 #aa-b_/c ,a nymph four days1 and part of the fifth1 #d-a_/c ------- #be days4 ,now1 reader1 what do you make of such palpable blundering guess-work8 ,a difference of nine days--the merest school-boy ought to know better6 ,can we rely on such history8 ,does it not prove the necessity of going over the whole ground1 applying a test to every assertion1 and a revision of the whole matter throughout8 ,my object is not to find fault1 but to get at facts4 ,when ,i see such guess-work as the above published to the world1 in this enlightened age1 gravely told to the rising generation1 as a portion of natural history1 ,i feel it a duty not to resist the inclination to expose the absurdity4 ,,the ,,number ,,of ,,eggs ,,deposited ,,by ,,the ,,queen ,,guessed ,,at4 ,the number of eggs that a queen will deposit is often another point of guess-work4 ,when the estimate does not exceed #bjj per diem1 ,i have no reason to dispute it2 the number will probably fall short in some cases1 and exceed it in others4 ,some writers suppose that this number would never produce a swarm1 as the bees that are lost daily amount to1 or even exceed that number1 and give us instead from eight hundred to four thousand eggs in a day1 from one queen4 ,the only way to test the matter accurately1 is by actually counting1 in an observatory hive1 or in one with sufficient empty combs to hold all the eggs she will deposit for a few days1 when1 by removing the bees1 and counting carefully1 we might ascertain1 and yet several would have to be examined1 before we could get at the average4 ,the nearest ,i ever came to knowing anything about it happened as follows3 ,a swarm left1 and the queen from some cause was unable to cluster with it1 and was found1 after some trouble1 in the grass a few rods off4 ,she was put in the hive with the swarm about #aa o'clock1 ,a4,m42 the next morning1 at sunrise1 ,i found on the bottom-board1 among the scales of wax1 #aah eggs that had been discharged in that time4 ,probably a few escaped notice1 as the color is the same as wax scales2 also1 they might already have had combs containing some4 ,i have several times found a few the next morning1 under swarms hived the day previous1 but never over thirty1 except in this one instance4 ,the reason of this queen not being able to fly well might have been an unusual burden of eggs4 ,perhaps it would be as well to mention here1 that in all cases where eggs are found in this way1 that they must be first swarms which are accompanied by the old queens4 ,schirach estimates the eggs a single female will lay1 from #gj1jjj to #ajj1jjj in a season4 ,reaumer and ,huber do not estimate so high4 ,another writer estimates #ij1jjj1 in three months4 ,let the number be as it may1 probably thousands are never perfected4 ,during the spring months1 in medium and small families1 where the bees can protect with animal heat but a few combs1 ,i have often found cells containing a plurality of eggs1 two1 three1 and occasionally four1 in a single cell4 ,these supernumeraries must be removed1 and frequently may be found amongst the dust on the bottom-board4 ,a ,,test ,,for ,,the ,,presence ,,of ,a ,,queen4 ,if you have a hive that you suspect has lost a queen at this season1 her presence can be ascertained nine times in ten by this method4 ,sweep off the board clean1 and look the next day or two after for these eggs4 ,take care that ants1 or mice1 have no chance to get them2 they might deceive you1 being as fond of eggs for breakfast as anyone4#g ,when one or more is found1 or any immature bees1 it is sufficient1 no further proof of the presence of a queen is needed4 #g ,it is said that the bees will devour these eggs also4 ,another portion of eggs is wasted whenever a supply of their food fails2 if we remove the bees from a stock during a scarcity1 when the hive is light1 we will be very likely to find hundreds of eggs in the cells1 and but very few advancing from that stage towards maturity4 ,i have thus found it in the fall1 in ,july1 and sometimes the first of ,june1 or at any time when maturing the brood would be likely to exhaust their stores1 to endanger the family's supply4 ,now1 instead of the fertility of the queen being greater in spring and first of summer than at other times1 7as we are often told71 ,i would suggest the probability that a greater abundance of food at this season1 and a greater number of empty cells1 may be the reason of the greater number of bees matured4 ,,when ,,drones ,,are ,,reared4 ,whenever the hive is well supplied with honey1 and plenty of bees1 a portion of eggs are deposited in the drone-cells1 which three or four days more are necessary to mature than the worker4 ,,when ,,queens ,,are ,,reared4 ,also1 when the combs become crowded with bees1 and honey plenty1 the preparations for young queens commence3 as the first step towards swarming1 from one to twenty royal cells are begun2 when about half completed1 the queen 7if all continues favorable7 will deposit eggs in them1 these will be glued fast by one end like those for the workers2 there is no doubt but they are precisely the same kind of eggs that produce other bees4 ,when hatched1 the little worm will be supplied with a superabundance of food2 at least1 it appears so from the fact1 that a few times ,i have found a quantity remaining in the cell after the queen had left4 ,the consistence of this food is about like cream1 the color some lighter1 or just tinged with yellow4 ,if it was thin like water1 or even honey1 ,i cannot imagine how it could be made to stay in the upper end of an inverted cell of that size in such quantities as are put in1 as the bees often fill it near half full4 ,sometimes a cell of this kind will contain this food1 and no worm to feed upon it4 ,i guessed the bees had compounded more than their present necessities required1 and that they stored it there to have it ready1 also1 that being there all might know it was for royalty4 ,illustration3 ,,plate ,,of ,,the ,,three ,,kinds ,,of ,,cells4 ,the taste is said to be more pungent than food given to the worker1 and the difference in food changes the bee from a worker to a queen4 ,i have nothing to say against this hypothesis2 it may be so1 or the young bee being obliged to stand on its head may effect it1 or both causes combined may effect the change4 ,i never tasted this food1 or found any test to apply4 ,the preceding plate represents a piece of comb containing all the different cells--those at the left hand the size for drones4 ,in the centre are few that appear sealed over1 others nearly covered1 others the larva in different stages of growth1 as well as the eggs4 ,fig4 #a represents a queen's cell just commenced4 ,they are usually started thus far the first season1 very frequently when the hive is only half or two-thirds full4 ,fig4 #b is a cell sufficiently advanced to receive the egg4 ,fig4 #c one finished1 the stage when the first swarm leaves4 ,fig4 #d when a queen has been perfected and left4 ,fig4 #e is a cell where its occupant has been destroyed by a rival1 and removed by the workers4 ,it will be perceived that each finished queen's cell contains as much wax as fifty made for the workers4 ,,liability ,,of ,,being ,,destroyed4 ,in any stage from the egg to maturity these royal insects are liable to be destroyed2--if honey fails from any cause sufficient to make the existence of a swarm any way hazardous1 the preparations are abandoned1 and these young queens destroyed2 7,i would here request the reader not to condemn me for telling more than ,i can prove1 until he has had the whole story2 in the swarming season1 ,i will give further particulars47 ,,drones ,,destroyed ,,when ,,honey ,,is ,,scarce4 ,when an occurrence like the above happens1 the drones next fall victims to the failure of honey4 ,a brief existence only is theirs2 such as are perfect1 are destroyed without mercy2 those in the chrysalis state are often dragged out1 and sacrificed to the necessities of the family4 ,such as are allowed to hatch1 instead of being fed and protected as they would be if honey was abundant1 are allowed1 while yet weak from the effects of hunger1 to wander from the hive1 and fall to the earth by hundreds4 ,these effects attend only a scarcity in the early part of the season4 ,the massacre of ,july and ,september is quite different4 ,the drones then have age and strength--an effort is apparently first made by the workers to drive them out without proceeding to extremes2 they are harassed sometimes for several days2 the workers feigning only to sting1 or else they cannot1 as ,i never succeeded in seeing but very few dispatched in that way2 yet there is evidence proving beyond doubt that the sting is used4 ,hundreds will often be collected together in a compact body at the bottom of the hive2 this mutual protection affording a few hours' respite from their tormentors1 who do not cease to worry them4 ,in a few days they are gone1 and it is a hard matter to tell what has become of them1 at least the majority4 ,if the hive in ,september is well supplied with honey1 a portion of the drones have a longer lease of life given them2 ,i have seen them as late as ,december4 ,in some seasons1 when the best hives are poorly supplied with stores1 the ensuing spring the bees will rear no drones1 until the flowers yield a good supply4 ,i have known one or two years in which no drones appeared before the last of ,june2 at other times1 thousands are matured by the first of ,may4 ,,old ,,queen ,,leaves ,,with ,,the ,,first ,,swarm4 ,the old queen leaves with the first swarm2 as soon as cells are ready in the new hive she will deposit her eggs in them1 at first for workers2 the number perfected will correspond with the supply of honey and size of the swarm4 ,when the supply fails before leaving the old stock1 she remains there1 and continues laying throughout the season2 but the bees matured after the #bjth of ,july 7in this section7 are not more than sufficient to keep the number good4 ,as many die1 or are lost during their excursions1 as the young ones will replace2 in fact1 they often lose rather than gain2 so that by the next spring1 a hive that has cast no swarm1 is no better for a stock than one from which a swarm has issued4 ,we are apt to be deceived by bees clustering outside1 towards the latter end of the season1 and suppose it hardly possible for them all to get in1 when it may be caused by hot weather1 full stores1 c4 ,a ,,young ,,queen ,,takes ,,the ,,place ,,of ,,her ,,mother ,,in ,,the ,,old ,,stock4 ,in ordinary circumstances1 when a swarm has left a stock1 the oldest of the young queens is ready to emerge from her cell in about eight or nine days2 if no second swarm is sent out1 she will take her mother's place1 and begin to lay eggs in about ten days1 or a little less4 ,two or three weeks is the only time throughout the whole season1 but what eggs can be found in all prosperous hives4 ,whenever a copious yield of honey occurs1 drones are reared2 as it becomes scarce1 they are destroyed4 ,the relative number of drones and workers that exist when they are most numerous1 doubtless depends on the size of the hive1 whether one in ten1 or one in thirty4 ,when a swarm is first hived1 the first cells are the size for working2 if the hive be very small1 and bees numerous1 it may be filled before they are fully aware of it1 and but few drone-cells constructed2 consequently1 but few can be raised2 whereas if the hive be large1 long before it is full1 considerable honey will be stored4 ,cells for storing honey are usually the size for drones2 these will be made as soon as the requisite number for workers is provided4 ,an abundant yield of honey during the process of filling a large hive1 would therefore cause a great proportion of these cells to be built--the amount of drone-brood being governed by the same cause1 is a strong argument against large hives1 as affording room for too many of these cells1 where an unnecessary number of drones will be reared1 causing a useless expenditure of honey1 c4 ,,other ,,theories4 ,theories differing materially from the foregoing1 are advanced by nearly all writers4 ,one says1 ,in spring the queen lays about #b1jjj eggs of males1 resumes it again in ,august1 but during the rest of the intervals she exclusively lays worker eggs4 ,the queen must be at least eleven months old before she begins to lay the eggs of males4 ,mr4 ,townley makes the same assertion4 ,dr4 ,bevan says1 the great laying of drone eggs usually commences about the end of ,april4 ,another author repeats about the same1 and appears to have investigated farther1 as he has found out that the eggs for the two kinds of bees are germinated separately1 and the queen knows when each kind is ready1 as well as the workers1 c4 ,now1 ,i beg leave to differ a little from these authors4 ,either there exists no difference in the eggs germinated1 and any1 or all will produce drones or workers1 just as they happen to be deposited and fed2 or else the periods of laying drone eggs are much more frequent than any writer with which ,i am acquainted has been willing to allow4 ,,subject ,,not ,,understood4 ,i am not anxious to establish a new theory1 but to get at facts4 ,if we pretend to understand natural history1 it is important that we have it correct2 and if we do not understand it1 say so1 and leave it open for further investigation4 ,it is my opinion that we know but very little about this point4 ,i wish to induce closer observation1 and would recommend no positive decision1 until all the facts that will apply have been examined4 ,whether these drone-egg theories have been too hastily adopted1 the reader can decide2 ,i shall offer a few more facts1 somewhat difficult to reconcile with them4 ,first1 in relation to the queen being eleven months old before laying drone eggs4 ,we all agree1 ,i believe1 that the old queen goes with the first swarm1 and a young one remains in the old stock4 ,now suppose the first swarm leaves in ,june1 and the old stock yet contains a numerous family4 ,the flowers of buckwheat in ,august yield a bountiful harvest of honey4 ,this old stock rears a large brood of drones4 ,is it not proved in this case that the queen was but two months old1 instead of eleven8 ,we further agree that young queens accompany second or after-swarms4 ,when these happen to be large and prosperous1 they never fail to rear a brood of drones at this season4 ,what is the age of these8 ,i apprehend that this eleven months theory originated in sections where there are no crops of buckwheat raised1 or in small quantities4 ,clover generally fails in ,august1 and ,may1 or ,june1 of another year comes round1 before there is a sufficient yield to produce the brood4 ,with these observations only1 how very rational to conclude that it must be a law of their nature1 instead of being governed by the yield of honey1 and size of the family8 ,if the periods of drone egg laying are limited to only two or three1 it would seem that all queens ought to be ready with this kind of egg1 about the same period of the season1 but how are the facts8 ,i would like to inquire what becomes of the first series of drone eggs1 the last of ,april1 or the first of ,may1 when the stocks are poorly supplied with honey1 or when a family is small and but little honey through the summer8 ,no drone brood is matured in these cases4 ,it is not pretended that the queen has any control over the germination of these eggs1 yet somehow she has them ready whenever the situation of the hive will warrant it4 ,two stocks may have an equal number of bees the first of ,may2 one may have forty pounds of honey1 the other four pounds2 the latter cannot afford to rear a drone1 while the other will have hundreds4 ,let two stocks have but four pounds each at any time in summer when honey is scarce1 now feed one of them plentifully1 and a brood of drones is sure to appear1 while the other will not produce one4 ,whenever stocks are well stored with honey1 and full of bees1 the first of ,may will find drone-cells containing brood4 ,if the flowers continue to yield a full supply1 these cells may be examined every week from that period till the first swarm leaves1 and ,i will engage that drone brood may be found in all stages from the egg to maturity2 and the worker brood the same4 ,in twenty-four days after the first swarm leaves1 the last drone eggs left by the old queen will be just about matured4 ,when transferring bees from old to new hives1 ,i generally do it about twenty-one or twenty-two days after the first swarm1 7this is the time to avoid destroying the worker-brood2 the particulars will be given in another place47 ,i have transferred a great many1 and never failed to find a few drones about ready to leave the combs4 ,whether the swarm had left the last of ,may1 or middle of ,july1 there was no difference1 they were on hand4 ,a very early swarm in good seasons1 will often fill the hive1 and send out an issue in from four to six weeks3 the usual amount of drone-brood may be found in these cases4 ,the following circumstance would appear to indicate that all the eggs are alike1 and if they are laid in drone-cells1 the bees give the proper food and make drones2 if in worker-cells1 workers1 just as they make a queen from a worker-egg1 when put in a royal cell4 ,in a glass hive1 one sheet of comb next the glass1 and parallel with it1 was full size2 about three-quarters of this sheet was worker-cells1 the remainder drone-cells4 ,the family had been rather small1 but now had increased to a full swarm2 a few drones had matured in the middle of the hive4 ,it was about the middle of ,june1 #ahej1 when ,i discovered the bees on this outside sheet1 preparing it1 as ,i thought1 for brood1 by cutting off the cells to the proper length4 ,they had been used for storing honey1 and were much too long1 being about an inch and a half deep4 ,in a day or two after ,i saw a few eggs in both worker and drone-cells2 four or five days afterwards1 on opening the door1 ,i found her majesty engaged in depositing eggs in the drone cells4 ,nearly every one already contained an egg2 most of these she examined1 but did not use them2 six or eight1 it appeared1 were all that were unoccupied2 in each of these she immediately deposited an egg4 ,she continued to search for more empty cells1 and in doing so1 she got on the part of the comb containing worker-cells1 where she found a dozen or more empty1 in each of which1 she laid one4 ,the whole time perhaps thirty minutes4 ,query8 ,was her series of drone eggs exhausted just at this time8 ,if so1 it would appear that she was not aware of it1 because she examined several drone-cells after laying the last one there1 before leaving that part of the comb1 and acted exactly as if she would have used them had they not been pre-occupied4 ,did the worker-cells receive some eggs that would have produced drones1 but for the circumstance of being deposited in worker-cells8 ,i know we are told that an egg may be transferred from a worker-cell to one for drones1 or an egg taken from a drone-cell and deposited in a worker-cell2 that the exchange will make no difference1 the bee will be just what the first deposit would have made it4 ,how the knowledge for this assertion was obtained1 we are not informed1 at least of the practical part4 ,that an egg was ever detached from the bottom of one cell safely and successfully deposited in another1 without breaking or injuring it in some manner1 to make the bees refuse it1 permit me at present to doubt4 ,,necessity ,,for ,,further ,,observation4 ,cannot some experiments1 practicable to all1 be instituted that will throw more light on this subject8 ,the old hypothesis of limiting drone-egg laying to two or three periods1 is evidently at fault4 ,,two ,,sides ,,of ,,the ,,question4 ,if we suppose that the eggs are all alike1 and the subsequent treatment makes either workers1 drones1 or queens1 and look to analogy for support1 we shall find much against1 as well as for it4 ,for instance1 we find in almost every department of animated nature1 that the sex of the germ of a future being is decided before being separated from the parent1 as the eggs of fowls1 c4 ,another fact1 some queens 7averaging one in sixty or eighty7 deposit eggs that produce only drones1#h whether in worker or drone-cells1 proving that sex is decided in this case beyond controversy4 ,hence it would appear reasonable1 if sex was decided by the ovaries of the queen1 in one case1 it would be in another4 #h ,i have had several such4 ,it made no difference whether the eggs were in the worker-cells or drone-cells1 the brood was all drones4 ,when in the worker-cells1 7and the majority was there17 they required to be lengthened about one-third4 ,in an occurrence of this kind1 the colony of workers will rapidly diminish in number1 until too few are left to protect the combs from the moth4 ,it occurs most frequently in spring1 but ,i once had a case the last of summer4 ,the first indications are an unusual number of caps1 or covers of cells1 being under and about the hive2 the workers1 instead of increasing1 grow less in number4 ,when you fear this state of things1 make a thorough examination1 blow under the hive some tobacco smoke1 as directed in pruning1 invert the hive1 part the combs till you can see the brood2 if the worker-cells contain drones1 they are readily perceived1 as they project beyond the usual even surface1 being very irregular1 here and there a few1 or perhaps but one sticking out4 ,the worker-brood1 when in their own cells1 form nearly an even surface2 so of the drones4 ,the only remedy that ,i have found is to destroy this queen1 and substitute another1 which can be obtained in the swarming season1 or in the fall1 better than at other times4 ,to find the queen1 paralyze with puff-ball1 c4 ,for directions see fall management4 ,to allow the bees the power of making three kinds of bees from one kind of eggs1 which would be virtually constituting a third sex1 an anomaly not often found4 ,the drones being males1 and workers imperfect females with generative organs undeveloped1 renders the anomaly of the third sex unnecessary4 ,on the other side it might be said in reply3 ,that if food and treatment would create or produce organs of generation in the female1 by making an egg destined for a worker into a queen1 7a fact which all apiarians admit17 why not food and treatment make the drone8 ,is the difficulty of developing one kind of sexual organs greater than another8 ,respecting the anomaly of the eggs of some queens producing only drones1 the question might be asked1 ,is this more of an anomaly than that of ordinary queens which are said to germinate eggs in distinct series8 ,it is all out of the usual line4 ,other animals or insects usually produce the sexes promiscuously4 ,as we are ignorant of causes deciding sex in any case1 we must acknowledge mystery to belong to both sides of the question here4 ,the stumbling-block of more than two sexes1 which seems so necessary to make plain1 is no greater here than with some species of ants1 that have1 as we are told1 king1 queen1 soldier and laborer4 ,four distinct and differently formed bodies1 all belonging to one nest1 and descended from one mother4 ,whether there are four distinct kinds of eggs producing them1 or the power is given to the workers to develop such as are wanted1 from one kind1 we cannot say4 ,if we make two kinds of eggs1 it helps the matter but very little4 ,there is still an anomaly4 ,there is but one perfect female in a nest to germinate eggs1 and the myriads produced 7being over #hj1jjj in twenty-four hours1 according to some historians7 shows that the fecundity of our queen-bee is not a parallel case by any means4 ,and yet they are similar1 by having their offspring provided for without an effort of their own4 ,i shall leave this matter for the present1 hoping that something conclusive may occur in the course of my experiments1 or those of others4 ,at present ,i am inclined to think that the eggs are all alike1 but am not fully satisfied4 ,i am aware that this matter is of but little value or interest to many1 but myself and a few others have ,yankee inquisitiveness pretty well developed1 and would like to know how it was managed4 ,as for workers proving occasionally fertile1 ,i have but little to say4 ,after years of close observation directed to this point1 ,i have been unable to discover anything to establish this opinion4 ,neither have ,i found the black bees described by some authors4 ,it is true that in the middle or latter part of summer a portion will be much darker than others1 and perhaps rather smaller1 and some of them with their wings somewhat worn1 probably the result of continued labor1 peculiar food1 or some incidental circumstance4 ,i have a few times found a humble-bee under the hive1 that had entered1 and not finding his way out readily1 was speedily shorn of his beautiful locks1 and consequently his strength--that is1 every particle of hair1 down1 feathers1 bristles1 or whatever he had been covered with1 was completely removed by the bees1 who had no regard for his beautiful alternating stripes of yellow and brown2 which left him the very picture of darkness4 ,,chapter ,,iv4 ,,bee ,,pasturage4 ,in some seasons the earth is covered with snow much later than others4 ,when this occurs1 a greater number of warm days are necessary to melt it1 and start the flowers1 than otherwise4 ,,substitute ,,for ,,pollen4 ,during these warm days1 while waiting for the flowers1 the bees are anxious to do something4 ,it is then interesting to watch them1 and see what will be used as substitutes for pollen and honey4 ,at such times1 ,i have seen hundreds engaged on a heap of sawdust1 gathering the minute particles into little pellets on their legs1 seeming quite pleased with the acquisition4 ,rotten wood1 when crumbled into powder1 and dry1 is also collected4 ,flour1 when scattered near the hive1 ,i have known to be taken up in considerable quantities4 ,some apiarians have fed it to their bees at this season1 and consider it a great advantage2 ,i have not tested it sufficient to give an opinion4 ,a substitute for honey is sap from a few kinds of trees1 yet it all amounts to but very little4 ,all these unnatural sources are abandoned when the flowers appear4 ,,manner ,,of ,,packing ,,it4 ,the particular manner of obtaining pollen has been witnessed by but very few persons1 as it is generally brushed from their bodies and packed on their legs1 while on the wing1 thereby preventing a fair chance to inspect operations4 ,when collecting only pollen they alight on the flowers1 passing rapidly over the stamens1 detaching a portion of the dust1 which lodges on most parts of them1 to be brushed together and packed into pellets when again on the wing4 ,thus they keep alternately flying and alighting until a load is obtained1 when they immediately return to the hive2 each bee bringing several loads in a day4 ,honey1 as it is collected1 is deposited in the abdomen1 and kept out of sight till stored in the hive4 ,,alder ,,yields ,,the ,,first4 ,the first material gathered from flowers is pollen4 ,candle-alder 7,alnus ,rubra7#i yields the first supply4 ,the time of flowering varies from the #ajth of ,march to the #bjth of ,april4 ,the amount afforded is also variable4 ,cold1 freezing weather frequently destroys a great portion of these flowers after they are out4 ,these staminate flowers are nearly perfected the season previous1 and a few warm days in spring will bring them out1 even before any leaves appear4 ,when the weather continues fine1 great quantities of farina are secured4 #i ,the botanical names are from ,wood's ,class-,book4 ,the time that bees commence their labors does not govern the time of swarming by any means2 this matter depends on the weather through ,april and ,may4 ,these remarks apply particularly to this section1 ,green ,county1 ,new ,york1 in latitude about #db degrees4 ,in other places many different trees1 shrubs1 and herbs1 may be found yielding honey and pollen that scarcely exist here1 producing far different results4 ,our swamps produce several varieties of willow1 7salix17 that put out their blossoms very irregularly4 ,some of these bushes are a month earlier than others1 and some of the buds on the same bush are a week or two later than the rest4 ,these also afford only pollen1 but are much more dependence than alder1 as a turn of cold weather cannot at any time destroy more than a small part4 ,next comes the aspen1 7,populus ,tremuloides72 of this we have more than is necessary for any purpose4 ,it is not a particular favorite with the bees1 as but few1 comparatively1 visit it4 ,it is followed very soon by an abundance of the red maple 7,acer ,rubrum71 that suits them better1 but this1 like the others1 is often lost by freezing4 ,the first honey obtained of any account is from the golden willow 7,salix ,vitellina72 it yields no pollen1 and is seldom injured by frost4 ,gooseberries1 currants1 cherries1 pear and peach trees1 add a share of both honey and pollen4 ,sugar maple 7,acer ,saccharinum7 now throws out its ten thousand silken tassels1 beautiful as gold4 ,strawberries modestly open their petals in invitation1 but1 like obscure virtues1 are often neglected for the more conspicuous ,dandelion1 and the showy appearance and flagrant blossoms of the apple-trees1 which now open their stores1 offering to their acceptance a real harvest4 ,,fruit ,,flowers ,,important ,,in ,,good ,,weather4 ,in good weather1 sometimes a gain of twenty lbs4 is added to their stores1 during this period of apple-tree blossoms4 ,but we are seldom fortunate enough to have good weather all through this period1 it being rainy1 cloudy1 cool1 or windy1 which is very detrimental4 ,sometimes a frost at this time destroys all1 and the gain of our bees is reversed1 that is1 they are lighter at the end than at the beginning of these flowers4 ,yet this is the season that decides their prosperity for the summer1 whether they do first rate or otherwise4 ,if good weather now1 we expect our first swarms about the first of ,june2 if not1 no subsequent yield of honey will make up for this deficiency4 ,we now have a time of several days1 from ten to fourteen1 in which but few flowers exist4 ,if our hives are poorly supplied when this scarcity occurs1 it will so disarrange their plans for swarming1 that no preparations are again made much before ,july1 and sometimes not at all4 ,in sections where the wild cherry 7,cerasus ,seratina7 abounds1 the flowers of this will appear and fill this time of scarcity1 which this section annually presents4 ,,red ,,raspberry ,a ,,favorite4 ,the red raspberry 7,rubus ,strigosus7 next presents the stamens as the most conspicuous part of the flower1 soliciting the embrace of the bee1 by pouring out bounteous libations more prized by our industrious insect than wine4 ,for several weeks they are allowed to partake of this exquisite beverage2 it is secreted at all hours and in all kinds of weather4 ,when the morning is warm we often hear their cheerful humming among the leaves and flowers of this shrub1 ere the sun appears above the horizon4 ,the gentle shower1 sufficient to induce man to seek a shelter1 is often unheeded by the bee when luxuriating among these flowers2 even white clover1 important as it is in furnishing the greatest part of their stores1 at this season1 would be neglected if there was only a full supply of this4 ,clover begins to blossom with the raspberry1 and continues longer4 ,we have an insufficient supply 7in this section7 in most seasons4 ,red clover probably secretes as much honey as the white1 but the tube of the corolla being longer1 the bee appears to be unable to reach it4 ,yet ,i have seen a few at work even here but it appeared like slow business4 ,sorrel1 7,rumex ,acetosella7 the pest of many farmers1 is brought under contribution1 and furnishes the precious dust in any quantity4 ,morning is the only part of the day appropriated to its collection4 ,,catnip1 ,,mother-,,wort1 ,,and ,,hoarhound ,,are ,,sought ,,after4 ,catnip1 7,nepeta ,cataria17 ,mother-wort1 7,leonurus ,cardiaca17 and ,hoarhound1 7,marrubium ,vulgare17 about the middle of ,june1 put forth their flowers1 rich in sweetness1 and like the ,raspberry1 the bees visit them at all hours and in nearly all kinds of weather4 ,they last from four to six weeks2 the catnip ,i have known to last twelve in a few instances1 yielding honey during the whole time4 ,ox-eye daisy1 7,leucanthemum ,vulgare17 that beautiful and splendid flower1 in pasture and meadow1 and worth but little in either1 also contains some honey4 ,the flower is compound1 and each little floret contains particles so minute1 that the task of obtaining a load is very tedious4 ,it is only visited when the more copious honey-yielding flowers are scarce4 ,snap-dragon17,linaria ,vulgaris17 with its nauseous and sickening odor1 troubling the farmer with its vile presence1 is made to bestow the only good thing about it1 except its beauty1 upon our insect4 ,the flower is large and tubular1 and the bee to reach the honey must enter it2 to see the bee almost disappear within the folds of the corolla1 one would think that it was about being swallowed1 when the hideous mouth was gaping to receive it2 but unharmed1 soon it emerges from the yellow prison1 covered with dust2 this is not brushed into pellets on its legs1 like the pollen from some other flowers1 but a part adheres to its back between the wings1 which it is apparently unable to remove1 as it remains there sometimes for months1 making a cluster outside the hive1 appear quite speckled4 ,bush honey-suckle 7,diervilla ,trifida7 is another particular favorite4 ,,singular ,,fatality ,,attendant ,,on ,,silkweed4 ,silkweed 7,asclepias ,cornuti7 is also another honey-yielding perennial1 but a singular fatality attends many bees while gathering it1 that ,i never yet saw noticed4 ,i had observed during the period this plant was in bloom1 that a number of the bees belonging to swarms1 before the hive was full1 were unable to ascend the sides to the comb2 there would be sometimes thirty or more at the bottom in the morning4 ,on searching for the cause1 ,i found from one to ten thin yellow scales1 attached to their feet1 triangular1 or somewhat wedge shape1 in size about the twentieth part of an inch4 ,on the longest point or angle1 was a black thread-like point1 from a sixteenth to an eighth of an inch in length2 on this stem was either hooks1 barbs1 or a glutinous matter1 that firmly adhered to each foot or claw of the bee1 rendering it useless as far as climbing the sides of the hive was concerned4 ,i found also among bees clustered outside of full hives1 this ornament attached1 but to them it appeared no inconvenience4 ,among the scales of wax and waste matter that accumulates about the swarms to the amount of a handful1 ,i found a great many of these scales1 which the bees had worked from their feet4 ,the question then arose1 were these scales a foreign substance1 accidentally entangled in their claws1 or was it something formed there by nature1 or rather an unnatural appendage8 ,it was soon decided4 ,from the number of bees carrying it1 ,i was satisfied that if it was the product of any flower1 it belonged to a species somewhat abundant4 ,i set about a close examination of all such as were then in bloom4 ,i found the flowers of the ,silkweed1 7or ,milkweed1 as some call it17 sometimes holding a dead bee by the foot1 secured by this appendage4 ,both sepals and petals of this flower are re-curved1 that is1 turned backward towards the stem1 forming five acute angles1 or notches1 just the thing for a trap for a bee with strings of beads on its toes2 when at work they are very liable to slip a foot into one of these notches2 the flower being thick and firm1 holds it fast2 pulling only draws it deeper into the wedge-like cavity4 ,the bee must either perish or break loose2 their instincts fail them in this emergency2 they know nothing about getting it out by a gentle pull the other way4 ,i never saw one do it except by accident4 ,by examining the buds of this plant just before opening1 ,i found this fatal appendage1 by which great numbers of our bees are lost4#aj ,when ,i point out a loss among our bees1 ,i would like to give a remedy2 but here ,i am at a loss1 unless all these plants are destroyed1 and this is impracticable in many places4 ,after all ,i am not sure but honey enough is obtained by such bees as do escape1 to counterbalance what we lose4 ,this would depend on the amount of honey yielded by other flowers at the same time4 #aj ,in ,wood's ,class-book of ,botany1 ,order ,,cii41 in a plate showing the parts of this plant1 it is thus described3 ,fig4 #aa1 a pair of pollen masses suspended from the glands at an angle of the antheridium1 c4 ,one1 when reading this simple botanical description1 and seeing the plate1 or the ,botanist with his glasses1 when he minutely inspects the parts1 would not suspect anything fatal to bees about it4 ,whitewood 7,liriodendron ,tulipifera7 yields something eagerly sought for by the bees1 but whether honey1 or pollen1 or both1 ,i have never been able to ascertain4 ,all the flowers of this kind1 with us1 are too high4 ,it is very scarce1 as well as ,basswood1 7,tilia ,americana17--that in some places is abundant1 and yields honey clear and transparent as water1 superior in appearance1 but inferior in flavor to clover2 it also appears much thinner when first collected4 ,,large ,,yield ,,from ,,basswood4 ,during the time this tree is in bloom1 a period of two or three weeks in many sections1 astonishing quantities are obtained4 ,a person once assured me that he had known ten pounds collected by one swarm in a day1 by weighing the hive in the morning and again at evening4 ,i have some doubt of the statement1 and think half the amount would be a good day's work2 but ,i had but a small chance to know1 as only a few trees1 as a specimen1 grow in this section4 ,i have weighed hives during seasons of apple-tree blossoms and buckwheat1 the two best yields of honey we have1 and three and a half pounds was the best for one day that ,i ever had4 ,sumach1 7,rhus ,glabra17 in some sections1 affords considerable honey4 ,mustard 7,sinapis ,nigra7 is also a great favorite4 ,i have now mentioned most of the honey-producing trees and plants that come on before the middle of ,july4 ,the course of these flowers is termed the first yield4 ,in sections where there are no crops of buckwheat1 it constitutes the only full one4 ,other flowers continue to bloom till cold weather4 ,where white clover is abundant and the fields are used for pasture1 it will continue to throw out fresh flowers1 sometimes1 throughout the summer2 yet the bees consume about all they collect in rearing their brood1 c4 ,thus it appears in some sections six or eight weeks is about all the time they have to provide for winter4 ,,garden ,,flowers ,,unimportant4 ,in passing along ,i have not mentioned garden flowers1 because the amount obtained here is a small item1 compared to the forest and fields--especially ornamental flowers4 ,it is true that the ,hollyhock1 7,altha ,rosea17 ,mallows1 7,malva ,rotundifolia7 and many others yield honey1 but what does it amount to8 ,a person expecting his hives to be filled from such a source would very likely be disappointed1 especially when many are kept together4 ,,honey-,,dew4 ,honey-dew is said to be a source from whence large collections are made in some places4 ,when or where it appears or disappears is more than ,i can tell4 ,i have seen the accounts of it1 but accounts ,i have learned to doubt until ,i find something corroborative in my own experience4 ,i find too many errors copied merely because they happen to be in company with several truths4 ,huber discovered many important truths1 and has given them to the world2 too many writers take it for granted when two points of his are true1 the third must be also4 ,it is no proof that there is no such article merely because ,i never discovered it4 ,in the many fruitless endeavors that ,i have made to get a view of this substance1 it may be ,i have lacked close observation2 or possibly there is none showered upon this region2 or ,i may have failed to bring my imagination to assist me to convert common dew into the real article4 ,,singular ,,secretion4 ,i once discovered bees collecting a secretion unconnected with flowers2 but was not honey-dew1 as it has been described4 ,i was passing a bush of ,witch-hazel1 7,hamamelis ,virginiana17 and was arrested by an unusual humming of bees4 ,at first ,i supposed that a swarm was about me1 yet it was late in the season1 7it being about the #beth ,july47 ,on close inspection1 ,i found the bush contained numerous warty excrescences1 the size and shape of a hickory-nut4 ,these proved to be only a shell--the inside lined with thousands of minute insects1 a species of aphis4 ,these appeared to be engaged sucking the juices1 and discharging a clear1 transparent fluid4 ,near the stem was an orifice about an eighth of an inch in diameter1 out of which this liquid would gradually exude4 ,so eager were the bees for this secretion1 that several would crowd around one orifice at a time1 each endeavoring to thrust the other away4 ,this occurred several years ago1 and ,i never have been able to find anything like it since2 neither have ,i learned whether it is common in other sections4 ,,secretions ,,of ,,the ,,aphis4 ,the liquid ejected by the aphis1 7plant louse17 when feeding or sucking the juices of tender leaves1 and received by the ants that are always in attendance1 is something like it2 but in this case the bees were in attendance instead of ants4 ,this mode of elaborating honey1 although not generally collected by bees1 perhaps may not be too much out of place here4 ,also1 it may furnish a clue to the cause or substantiate some theory of honey-dew4 ,these insects 7,aphis7 have been very appropriately termed ants' cows1 as they are regarded by them with the most tender care and solicitude4 ,in ,july or ,august1 when the majority of the leaves of our apple trees are matured1 there is often a few sprouts or suckers about the bottom or trunk1 that continue growing and putting out fresh leaves4 ,on the under side of these1 you will find the aphis by hundreds1 of all sizes1 from those just hatched to the perfect insect with wings4 ,all appear to be engaged in sucking the bitter juice from the tender leaf and stalk4 ,the ants are among them by scores4 7,they are often accused by the careless observer of the injury1 instead of the aphis47 ,occasionally there will issue from their abdomen a small1 transparent globule1 which the ant is ever ready to receive4 ,when a load is obtained it descends to the nest2 others may be seen going and returning continually4 ,many other kinds of trees1 shrubs and plants are used by the ants as cow pasture1 and most kinds of ants are engaged in this dairy business4#aa ,would the bees attend on the aphis for this secretion1 7for it appears to be honey17 if the ant was not there first8 ,or if there were no ants or bees1 would this secretion be discharged1 and falling on the leaves below them1 be honey-dew8 ,if they were situated on some lofty trees1 and it lodged on the leaves of small bushes near the earth1 it would1 with some authors4 #aa ,the history of insects1 as published by ,harpers1 gives more particulars on this interesting subject4 ,these questions ,i shall not answer1 at present4 ,as for theory1 ,i shall probably have enough before ,i get through1 where ,i hope the subject may be more interesting4#ab #ab ,since the foregoing was written1 ,i have made some further observations on this subject4 ,in ,august1 #aheb1 ,i noticed1 on passing under some willow trees1 7,salix ,vitellina17 that leaves1 grass1 and stones1 were covered with a wet or shining substance4 ,on looking among the branches1 ,i found nearly all the smallest were covered with a species of large black aphis1 apparently engaged in sucking the juices1 and occasionally discharging a minute drop of a transparent liquid4 ,i guessed this might be the honey-dew4 ,as this was early in the morning1 ,i resolved to visit this place again1 as soon as the sun got up far enough to start out the bees1 and see if they collected any of it4 ,on my return ,i found not only bees in hundreds1 but ants1 hornets1 and wasps4 ,some were on the branches with the aphis1 others on the leaves and larger branches4 ,some of them were even on the stones and grass under the trees1 collecting it4 ,we will now return to the flowers1 and see what few there are yet to appear1 after the middle of ,july4 ,the button-ball bush 7,cephalanthus ,occidentalis7 is now much frequented for honey4 ,also1 our vines1 melons1 cucumbers1 squashes1 and pumpkins4 ,the latter are visited only in the morning1 and honey is the only thing obtained2 notwithstanding the bee is covered with farina1 it is not kneaded into pellets on its legs4 ,i have seen it stated that bees never get honey early in the morning1 but pollen instead4 ,now it is not best always to take our word1 who pretend to know all about it1 but look for yourselves into some of these matters4 ,take a look some warm morning1 when the pumpkins are in bloom1 and see whether it is honey or pollen they are in quest of4 ,also please make an observation when they are at work on the red raspberry1 motherwort1 or catnip2 you will thus ascertain a fact so easily1 that you will wonder any one with the least pretension to apiarian science could be ignorant of it4 ,i mention this1 not because it is of much importance in itself1 but to show the fallibility of us all1 as we sometimes copy the mistaken assertions of others4 ,,advantages ,,of ,,buckwheat4 ,under some circumstances1 clover will continue to bloom through this part of the season2 also1 a few other flowers2 but ,i find by weighing1 a loss from one to six pounds1 between the #bjth ,july and the #ajth of ,august1 when the flowers of buckwheat begin to yield honey1 which generally proves a second harvest4 ,in many places it is their main dependence for surplus honey4 ,it is considered by many an inferior quality4 ,the color1 when separated from comb1 resembles molasses of medium shade4 ,the taste is more pungent than clover honey2 it is particularly prized on that account by some1 and disliked by others for the same reason4 ,in the same temperature it is a little thicker than other honey1 and is sooner candied4 ,,amount ,,of ,,honey ,,collected ,,from ,,it4 ,swarms issuing as late as the #aeth ,july1 when they commence on buckwheat1 sometimes contain not over five pounds of stores1 and yet make good stocks for winter1 whereas1 without this yield1 they might not live through ,october4 ,it fails about once in ten years4 ,i have known a swarm to gain in one week sixteen pounds1 and construct comb to store it at the same time4 ,at another time ,i had a swarm issue the #ahth ,august1 that obtained thirty pounds in about eighteen days4 ,but such buckwheat swarms1 in ordinary seasons1 seldom get over fifteen pounds4 ,the flowers last from three to five weeks4 ,the time of sowing the grain varies in different sections1 from the #ajth of ,june to the #bjth ,july4 ,farmers wish to give it just time to ripen before frost1 as the yield of grain is considered better1 but as the time of frost is a matter of guess-work1 some will sow several days earlier than others4 ,whenever an abundant crop of this grain is realized1 a proportionate quantity of honey is obtained4 ,,do ,,bees ,,injure ,,the ,,crop8 ,many people contend that bees are an injury to this crop1 by taking away the substance that would be formed into grain4 ,the best reasons for this opinion that ,i have obtained are these3 ,i believe it1 and have thought so a long time4 ,it is reasonable if a portion of this plant is taken away by the bees1 there must be a less quantity of material left for the formation of seed1 c4 ,most of us have learned that a person's opinion is not the strongest kind of proof1 unless he can exhibit substantial reasons for it4 ,are the above reasons satisfactory8 ,how are the facts8 ,the flowers expand1 and a set of vessels pour into the cup or nectary a minute portion of honey4 ,i am not aware that any one contends that the plant has another set of vessels prepared to again absorb this honey and convert it into grain4 ,but strong testimony proves very plainly that it never again enters the stalk or flower1 but evaporates like water4 ,we all know that animal matter when putrid will be dissolved into particles small enough to float in the atmosphere1 too minute for the naked eye4 ,when passing off in this way this real flesh and blood would escape notice perhaps altogether1 and never be detected1 were it not for the olfactories1 which on some occasions notify us of its presence very forcibly4 ,in passing a field of buckwheat in bloom1 by the same means we are assured of the presence of honey in the air4 ,now what is the difference whether this honey passes off in the air1 or is collected by the bees8 ,if any difference1 the advantage appears to be in favor of the bees getting it1 for the reason that it thus answers another important end in the economy of nature1 consistent with her provisions in ten thousand different ways of adapting means to ends4 ,most breeders of domestic animals are aware of the deteriorating qualities induced by in-and-in breeding2 a change of breed is found necessary for perfection1 c4 ,,are ,,not ,,bees ,,an ,,advantage ,,to ,,vegetation8 ,vegetable physiology seems to indicate a similar necessity in that department4 ,the stamens and pistils of flowers answer the different organs of the two sexes in animals4 ,the pistil is connected with the ovaries1 the stamens furnish the pollen that must come in contact with the pistil2 in other words1 it must be impregnated by this dust from the stamens1 or no fruit will be produced4 ,now if it be necessary to change the breed1 or essential that the pollen produced by the stamens of one flower shall fertilize the pistil of another1 to prevent barrenness1 what should we contrive better than the arrangement already made by ,him who knew the necessity and planned it accordingly8 ,and it works so admirably1 that we can hardly avoid the conclusion that bees were intended for this important purpose6 ,it is thus planned6 ,their wants and their food shall consist of honey and pollen2 each flower secretes but little1 just enough to attract the bee2 nothing like a full load is obtained from one2 were it thus1 the end in view would not be answered2 but a hundred or more flowers are often visited in one excursion2 the pollen obtained from the first may fertilize many1 previous to the bees' returning to the hive2 thus a field of buckwheat may be kept in health and vigor in its future productions4 ,a field of wheat produces long slender stalks that yield to the influence of the breeze1 and one ear is made to bestow its pollen on a neighboring ear several feet distant1 thereby effecting just what bees do for buckwheat4 ,corn1 from its manner of growth1 the upright stalk bearing the stamens some feet above the pistils1 on the ears below1 seems to need no agency of bees2 the superabundant pollen from the tassel is wafted by the winds rods from the producing stalk1 and there does its office of fertilizing a distant ear1 as is proved by different varieties mixing at some distance4 ,but how is it with our vines trailing on the earth1 a part of these flowers producing stamens1 the other only pistils8 ,now it is absolutely essential that pollen from the staminate flowers shall be introduced into the pistillate to produce fruit2 because if a failure occurs in this matter the germ will wither and die4 ,here we have the agent ready for our purpose2 these flowers are visited by the bee promiscuously2 no pollen 7as was said7 is kneaded into pellets1 7particularly that from pumpkins17 but it adheres to every part of their body1 rendering it next to impossible for a bee thus covered with dust to enter the pistillated flower without fulfilling the important duty designed1 and leave a portion of the fertilizing dust in its proper place4 ,hence it is reasonably inferred by many1 that if it was not for this agent among our vines1 the uncertainty of a crop from non-fertilization would render the cultivation of them a useless task4 ,when the aphis is located on the stalk or leaf of a plant it is furnished with means to pierce the surface and extract the juices essential to the formation of the plant1 thereby preventing vigorous growth and a full development4 ,this idea is too apt to be associated with the bee when she visits the flower1 as if she was armed with a spear1 to pierce bark or stem and rob it of its nourishment4 ,her real structure is lost sight of1 or perhaps never known2 her slender brush-like tongue folded closely under her neck1 and seldom seen except when in use1 is not fitted to pierce the most delicate substance2 all that it can be used for is to sweep or lick up the nectar as it exudes from the pores of the flower1 secreted1 it would seem1 for no other purpose but to attract her--while there she obtains nothing but what nature has provided for her and given her the means of obtaining1 and the most delicate petal receives no injury4 ,during an excursion the bee seldom visits more than a single species of flower2 were it otherwise1 and all kinds of flowers were visited promiscuously1 by fertilizing one species with the pollen from another1 the vegetable kingdom would be very likely to get into confusion4 ,writers1 when noticing the peculiarity of instinct governing the bee here1 cannot be content always1 but must add other marvels4 ,they follow this trait into the hive1 and make her store every kind by itself there4 ,relative to honey it is not an easy matter to be positive2 but pollen is of a variety of colors1 generally yellow1 yet sometimes pale-green1 and reddish or dark-brown4 ,now ,i think a little patient inspection would have satisfied any one that two kinds are sometimes packed in one cell1 and prevented the assertion to the contrary4 ,i will admit that two colors are seldom found packed together1 but sometimes will be4 ,i have thus found it1 and it has entirely ruined that theory for me4 ,a ,,test ,,for ,,the ,,presence ,,of ,,queen ,,doubted4 ,it is further asserted that if a hive loses its queen no pollen is collected4 ,also1 that such quantities are sometimes collected1 and fill so many cells1 that too little room is left for brood1 and the stock rapidly dwindles away in consequence4 ,the first of these assertions has been given as a test to decide whether the hive contains a queen or not4 ,now my bees have such a habit of doing things wrong that the above is no test whatever4 ,it is made to appear very well in theory1 but wants the truth in practice4 ,i will say what ,i have known on this point1 and perhaps clear up the difficulty of a stock containing an unusual quantity of bee-bread with the honey1 and instead of being the cause of its having but few bees1 it is the effect4 ,stocks and sometimes swarms lose their queen in the swarming season1 7the particulars will be given in another place17 when1 instead of remaining idle1 the usual quantity of both pollen and honey is collected 7unless the family is very small74 ,there being no larvae to consume the bread1 the consequence is1 more than half the breeding cells will contain it2 they will be packed about two-thirds full1 and finished out with honey4 ,i have known a large family left under such circumstances1 and about all the cells in the hive would be occupied4 ,whereas1 in a stock containing a queen and rearing brood1 a portion of the combs will be used for this purpose until the flowers fail1 and then such comb will be found empty4 ,,an ,,extra ,,quantity ,,of ,,pollen ,,not ,,always ,,detrimental4 ,to test whether this extra quantity of bee-bread was so very detrimental1 ,i have introduced into such hive in the fall a family with a queen and wintered them in it1 and watched their prosperity another year1 and never found them less profitable on that account4 ,i am so well satisfied of this1 that whenever ,i now have a hive in such a situation1 it is a rule to introduce a swarm4 ,it is calculated1 ,i believe1 generally1 that when medium-sized hives are full1 about seven-eighths of the cells are made the proper diameter for raising the workers1 the remainder for drones1 except a few for queens4 ,here is one circumstance ,i do not remember to have seen mentioned1 and that is1 bee-bread is generally packed exclusively in the worker cells4 ,i would say always2 but ,i would do better to be careful1 especially as ,i find my bees doing things so differently from some others4 ,i might as well remark here1 that when taking combs from a hive filled with honey1 if such pieces were selected as contained only the large or drone cells1 but little risk of bee-bread would occur2 of the other combs1 the outside sheets and the corners of the others near the top are the next best4 ,the sheets of comb used principally for raising workers1 and the cells next those so used1 for an inch or two in width1 are nearly all packed with pollen1 and much of it will remain1 when the breeding season is past4 ,smaller portions are found in the worker cells in nearly all parts of the hive2 even the boxes will sometimes contain a little4 ,,manner ,,of ,,packing ,,stores4 ,in a glass hive1 the bees may be seen depositing their load of pollen2 the legs holding the pellets are thrust into the cell1 7not their heads71 and a motion like rubbing them together is made for a half minute1 when they are withdrawn1 and the two little loaves of bread may be seen at the bottom4 ,this bee appears to take no farther care about them1 but another will soon come along1 and enter the cell head first1 and pack it close2 this cell is filled about two-thirds of its length in this way1 and when sealed over a little honey is used to fill it out4 ,,philosophy ,,in ,,filling ,a ,,cell ,,with ,,honey4 ,to witness the operation of depositing honey1 a glass hive or box is requisite2 the edges of the combs will be attached to the glass--when honey is abundant1 most of these cells next the glass will contain some4 ,now is the time to see the operation1 glass forming one side of such as are in contact1 c4 ,the bee may be seen to enter the cell till it reaches the bottom2 with its tongue1 the first particle is deposited1 and brushed into the corners or angles1 carefully excluding all the air from behind it--as it is filled1 that next the sides of the cell is kept in advance of the centre4 ,the bee does not put its tongue in the centre and pour out its load there1 but carefully brushes the sides as it fills1 excluding every particle of air1 and keeps the surface concave instead of convex4 ,this is just as a philosopher would say it should be4 ,if it was filled at once and no care taken to attach it to the sides1 why1 the external air would never keep it there1 which it does effectually when of ordinary length4 ,when the cell is about one-fourth of an inch deep they often commence filling it1 and as it is lengthened they add to it1 keeping it within an eighth of an inch of the end2 it is never quite full till nearly sealed over1 and often not then4 ,in cells of the worker size1 the sealing seldom touches the honey4 ,but in the size for drones the case is different2 the honey on the end touches the sealing1 about half the diameter on the lower side2 it is kept in the same shape while being filled2 but being somewhat larger1 the atmospheric pressure is less effectual in keeping the honey in its place2 consequently1 when they commence sealing these cells they begin on the lower side and finish at the top4 ,,long ,,cells ,,sometimes ,,turned ,,upward4 ,when storing honey in boxes1 cells of this size are usually much longer1 in which case they are crooked1 the ends turning upward1 sometimes half an inch or more2 this1 of course1 will prevent the honey from running1 but if the box is taken off and turned over before such cells are sealed1 they are very sure to spill most of their contents4 ,the cells in the breeding apartment1 of ordinary length1 will hold the honey well enough as long as horizontal2 but turn the hive on its side1 and bring the open end downward1 in hot weather1 or break out a piece and hold it in that position1 the air will not sustain it in them1 but will1 in the size suitable for workers4 ,when the hive is fully supplied with bees and honey1 7unless destitute of a queen17 ,i never examined one1 winter or summer1 but it had a number of unsealed cells containing honey1 as well as pollen2 it is so when they have stored fifty pounds in boxes1 even when so crowded for room as to store honey outside or under the bottom-board2 ever having some cells open for a ready supply4 ,young swarms seem unwilling to construct combs faster than needed for use2 it would appear1 at first thought1 to be a lack of economy4 ,when no honey is to be obtained and nothing to do1 then it would seem to be a fine chance for getting ready for a yield2 but this is not their way of doing business2 whether they cannot spare the honey already collected to elaborate the wax1 or whether they find it more difficult to keep the worms from a large quantity of comb1 ,i shall not decide4 ,of this ,i am satisfied1 that it is better arranged by their instincts1 than we could do it4 ,large swarms1 when first located1 if honey is abundant1 will extend their combs from top to bottom in a little more than two weeks2 but such hive is not yet full2 some sheets of comb may contain honey throughout their whole length1 and not a cell be sealed over2 but1 however1 they generally find time to finish up within a few inches of the lower end as they proceed4 ,whenever unfinished cells contain honey1 it will generally be removed soon after the flowers fail1 and used before that which is sealed2 and the cells will remain empty till another year4 ,,is ,a ,,dry ,,or ,,wet ,,season ,,best ,,for ,,honey8 ,the inquiry is often made1 ,what kind of season is best for bees1 wet or dry8 ,this point ,i have watched very closely1 and have found that a medium between the two extremes produces most honey4 ,when farmers begin to express fears of a drought1 then is the time 7if in the season of flowers7 that most honey is obtained2 but if dry weather passes these limits1 the quantity is greatly diminished4 ,of the two extremes1 perhaps very wet is the worst4 ,,how ,,many ,,stocks ,,should ,,be ,,kept4 ,what number of stocks can there be kept in one place8 is another question often asked4 ,this is like ,mr4 ,a4 asking farmer ,b4 how many cattle could be pastured in a lot of ten acres4 ,farmer ,b4 would first wish to know how much pasture said lot would produce1 before he could begin to answer2 since one lot of that size might produce ten times as much as the other4 ,so with bees1 one apiary of two hundred stocks might find honey in abundance for all1 and another of forty might almost starve4 ,like the cattle1 it depends on pasture4 ,,three ,,principal ,,sources ,,of ,,honey4 ,there are three principal sources of honey1 viz43--clover1 basswood1 and buckwheat4 ,but clover is the only universal dependance2 as that is almost everywhere1 to some extent1 in the country4 ,buckwheat in some places is the main source2 in others1 basswood1 which is of brief duration4 ,where all three are abundant1 there is the true ,el ,dorado of the apiarian6 ,with plenty of clover and buckwheat1 it is nearly as well4 ,even with clover alone1 enormous quantities of honey are obtained4 ,i have said what was our dependence in this section4 ,i will further say that within a circle of three or four miles1 there are kept about three hundred stocks4 ,i have had for several years1 three apiaries about two miles apart1 averaging in spring a little more than fifty in each4 ,when a good season for clover occurs1 as many more would probably do equally well1 but in some other seasons ,i have had too many2 on an average nearly right4 ,when clover furnishes too little honey for the number1 buckwheat usually supplies more than is collected4 ,of surplus honey1 the proportion is about fifteen pounds of buckwheat to one of clover4 ,i have now been speaking of large apiaries4 ,there can hardly be a section of country found1 that man can procure his living1 but what a few stocks would thrive1 even if there were no dependence on the sources just mentioned4 ,there will be some honey-yielding flowers in nearly all places4 ,the evil of over-stocking is of short duration1 and will work its own cure speedily4 ,some judgment is required here as well as in other matters4 ,another question of some interest1 is the distance that a bee will travel in search of honey in flowers--it is evident that it will be farther than they will go to plunder a stock4 ,i have heard of their being found seven miles from home4 ,it was said they ascertained1 by sprinkling flour on them as they left the hive in the morning1 and then saw the same bees that distance away4 ,when we consider the chances of finding a bee even one mile from the hive thus marked1 it appears like a poor look2 and then pollen the color of flour might deceive us4 ,it is difficult to prove that bees go even two miles4 ,let us say we guess at it1 for the present4 ,,chapter ,v4 ,,wax4 ,the careless1 unreflecting observer1 when seeing the bees enter the hive with a pellet of pollen on each of their posterior legs1 is very apt to conclude that it must be material for comb1 as it appears unlike honey4 ,so little regard is paid to the matter by many people1 that they are unable to imagine any other use for it4 ,others suppose that it will change from that to honey1 after being stored a time in the hive1 and wonder at the curious phenomenon2 but when asked how long a time must elapse before it takes place1 they cannot tell exactly1 but they have found cells where it began to change1 as a portion near the outer end of the cell had become honey1 and no doubt the remainder would in time4 ,it has been remarked that cells were only filled about two-thirds full of this1 and finished with honey2 now when any one finds a cell filled to the brim with pollen1 and no honey1 such reasoning will apply better4 ,if this was the case1 by examining at different periods through the summer1 we certainly should find some cells before the change had commenced1 instead of their always being in just this stage of transition4 ,,is ,,pollen ,,converted ,,into ,,wax8 ,as for pollen being converted into wax or comb1 a simple question will show its fallacy4 ,do not the bees belonging to a hive that is full of combs1 and no more wax for that purpose needed1 bring home as much and often more pollen than one half full8 ,any person who has watched two such hives five minutes when busily engaged at work1 can answer4 ,it is evident1 then1 that pollen is for something else besides wax4 ,,how ,,is ,,it ,,obtained8 ,the inquiry is now made1 ,where do they get it from1 if not from pollen8 ,i might with propriety answer1 they don't get it at all4 ,stop1 there1 if you please2 if you expect us to credit you1 you must not give us too much absurdity4 ,well1 let me ask a question4 ,do cattle when grazing actually obtain flesh1 bone1 c41 or only the materials from which these parts are secreted8 ,as to the production of wax1 ,i believe all close observers 7that ,i have found7 agree that it is a secretion natural only to the bee4 ,with the ox1 fruit1 grain1 or grass may be converted into tallow2 with the bee1 honey and syrup made of sugar may be converted into wax4 ,these are probably the only two substances yet discovered from which they extract it4 ,some writers have pretended that pollen is also used1 but they have failed to prove that the old bees consume it at any time2 which they must in this case if it is converted into wax4 ,from experiments related by ,huber1 either of these substances1 mixed with a little water1 is all sufficient for its production4 ,from experiments of my own1 ,i am satisfied that he is correct4 ,the experiment is tried by shutting up a swarm when first hived2 feeding them with honey--a few of the bees will probably have some pollen1 though not enough to make a comb three inches square1 yet it is something--and to be certain1 time must be given them to exhaust it4 ,in three or four days take out the bees and remove the combs2 inclose them again1 and feed with honey as before4 ,repeat the process1 until satisfied that no pollen is needed in the composition of wax4 ,huber removed the combs five times1 with the same result at every trial4 ,whenever bees are confined in hot weather1 air and water are absolutely necessary4 ,we will now describe the first appearance of wax1 and how it is produced4 ,when a swarm of bees is about leaving the parent stock1 three-fourths or more of them will fill their sacks with honey4 ,when located in their new home1 of course no cells exist to hold it2 it must remain in the stomach or sack for several hours4 ,the consequence is1 that thin white scales of wax the sixteenth of an inch in diameter1 somewhat circular1 are formed between the rings of the abdomen1 under side4 ,with the claws of one of their hind legs one of these is detached and conveyed to the mouth1 and there pinched with their forceps or teeth1 until one edge is worked somewhat rough2 it is then applied to the comb being constructed1 or to the roof of the hive4 ,the first rudiments of comb are often applied within the first half hour after the swarm is hived4 ,in the history of insects before noticed1 is a minute account of the first foundation of combs1 somewhat amusing1 if not instructive4 ,,huber',s ,,account ,,of ,a ,,commencement ,,of ,,comb4 ,huber1 it is said1 having provided a hive with honey and water1 it was resorted to in crowds by bees1 who1 having satisfied their appetite1 returned to the hive4 ,they formed festoons1 remained motionless for twenty-four hours1 and after a time scales of wax appeared4 ,an adequate supply of wax for the construction of a comb having been elaborated1 one of them disengaged itself from the centre of the group1 and clearing a space about an inch in diameter1 at the top of the hive1 applied the pincers of one of its legs to its side1 detached a scale of wax1 and immediately began to mince it with the tongue4 ,during the operation1 this organ was made to assume every variety of shape2 sometimes it appeared like a trowel1 then flattened like a spatula1 and at other times like a pencil1 ending in a point4 ,the scale1 moistened with a frothy liquid1 became glutinous1 and was drawn out like a riband4 ,this bee then attached all the wax it could concoct to the vault of the hive1 and went its way4 ,a second now succeeded1 and did the like2 a third followed1 but owing to some blunder did not put the wax in the same line with its predecessor2 upon which another bee1 apparently sensible of the defect1 removed the displaced wax1 and carrying it to the former heap1 deposited it there1 exactly in the order and direction pointed out4 ,now ,i have some objections to make to this account4 ,first1 in the usual course of swarming1 it is unnecessary to provide the honey and water1 as they come laden with honey from the parent stock4 ,next1 to form festoons and remain motionless twenty-four hours to concoct the wax1 is not the way they generally manage affairs4 ,they either swallow the honey before leaving home long enough to have the wax ready1 or less time than twenty-four hours is needed to produce it4 ,i have frequently found lumps1 half the size of a pin's head1 attached to the branch of a tree where they had clustered1 when they had not been there over twenty-five minutes4 ,i have had occasion a few times to change the swarm to another tenement1 an hour or two after being hived1 and found places on the top nearly covered with wax4 ,how it was managed to see a bee quit the group1 is more than ,i can comprehend2 and then the tongue to be the only instrument used to mould the scale of wax1 is another difficulty2 to witness the whole process minutely in this stage of comb-making has never been my good fortune1 and ,i am sometimes inclined to doubt the success of others4 ,i have had glass hives1 and put swarms in them1 and always found the first rudiments of comb so entirely covered with bees as to prevent my seeing anything4 ,,best ,,time ,,to ,,witness ,,comb-,,making4 ,the only time when ,i have witnessed the process with any degree of satisfaction is when the combs approach the glass1 and but few bees in the way2 then1 by watching patiently a few minutes1 some part of the process may be seen4 ,,manner ,,of ,,working ,,wax4 ,transferring the swarms to different hives from one to forty-eight hours after being hived1 will show their progress4 ,i have found that wax is attached to the top of the hive at first promiscuously1 that is1 without the least order1 until some of the blocks or lumps are sufficiently advanced for them to begin cells4 ,the scales of wax are welded on the edge quite thick1 without regard to the shape of the cell1 then an excavation is made on one side for the bottom of a cell1 and two others on the opposite side2 the division between them exactly opposite the centre of the first4 ,when this piece is an inch or two in length1 two other pieces at equal distances on each side are commenced4 ,if the swarm is large1 and honey abundant1 it is common for two pieces of comb to be started at one time on different parts of the top2 the sheets in the two places are often at right angles1 or any other way1 just as chance happens to give direction4 ,the little lumps that are placed at random at first are all removed as they advance4 ,while the combs are in progress1 the edges are always kept much the thickest1 and the base of the cell is worked down to the proper thickness with their teeth1 and polished smooth as glass4 ,the ends of the cell also1 as they lengthen them1 will always be found much thicker than any other part of it when finished4 ,when two combs approach each other in the middle of the hive at nearly right angles1 an edge of comb is left there2 but when an obtuse angle1 the edges are generally joined1 making a sheet of crooked comb4 ,it is evident where the two combs join1 there must be some irregular cells unfit for rearing brood4 ,,crooked ,,combs ,a ,,disadvantage4 ,these few irregular cells have been considered a great disadvantage4 ,it is thought1 or pretended1 that there is a vast difference between the prosperity of a stock with straight combs and one with crooked ones4 ,to avoid them1 or cause the bees to make them all straight1 has given rise to much contrivance1 as if a few such cells could effect much4 ,suppose there were a dozen sheets of comb in a hive1 and each one had a row or more of such irregular cells from top to bottom1 what proportion would they hold to those that were perfect8 ,perhaps not one in a thousand4 ,hence we infer that in a hive of the proper size1 the difference in amount of brood never could be perceived4 ,this is the only difference it can make1 because such cells can be used for storing honey as well as others4 ,but sometimes there will be corners and spaces not wide enough for two combs1 and too wide for one of the proper thickness for breeding4 ,as bees use all their room economically1 and generally at the best advantage1 a thick comb will be the result4 ,it is said they never use such thick combs for breeding4 ,how are the facts8 ,i have just such a space in a glass hive2 one comb two inches thick4 ,how is it managed8 ,towards fall this sheet is filled with honey2 the cells outside are lengthened until there is just room for a bee to pass between them and the glass1 when they are sealed over4 ,in spring these long cells are all cut down 7except at the top and upper corners7 to the proper length for breeding1 and used for this purpose4 ,this has been done for five years in succession4 ,i will grant that there is a little waste room in such spaces1 for part of the year4 ,it amounts to but little1 as it is only outside4 ,they are necessitated to make such combs1 because the inside combs1 if built in a breeding apartment1 however crooked one may be1 the next one will generally match it1 the right distance from it4 ,but when they are built expressly for storing honey1 in such as are made in boxes1 the right distance is not so well preserved2 hence it is not recommended to compel bees to use such storing apartment for breeding4 ,but suppose we should compel a swarm to labor under these disadvantages1 ,i should not apprehend such disastrous results1 7providing they have a proper proportion of worker cells17 as no swarms1 or even no surplus honey1 as has been represented4 ,imagine a hive filled with combs that are all too thick1 and room wasted when cut down1 to the amount of one-fourth of all that is in the hive4 ,now here are combs enough left to mature three-fourths as many bees as in an ordinary hive1 where all are right4 ,we can now suppose a good swarm will bring home the same amount of honey as though it belonged to other hives2 only three-fourths as much can be fed to the brood1 and stored in the hive2 and the result ought to be1 that we get a quarter more surplus honey in boxes4 ,even if we get no swarm1 ,i cannot see how our surplus honey can be less1 as in this case there would be more bees at all times than in a hive that had been reduced by swarming4 ,does experience substantiate the theory that stocks with crooked combs are as profitable as when they are straight8 ,when combs are built expressly for breeding1 ,i could never discover any difference4 ,any person can easily test it by a little observation2 not by taking a solitary instance of only one hive1 because some other cause might produce the result4 ,take a half-dozen at least with straight combs1 and as many with them crooked2 have them all alike in other respects1 and carefully watch the result4 ,i think you will have but little interest which way the combs are made1 providing they are made1 as far as profit is concerned4 ,it is true1 it would gratify order to have them all straight1 and if it was not attended with more trouble than the result would pay for1 it would be well to have them so4 ,in ordinary circumstances1 when a swarm is first hived1 they set about comb-making immediately2 yet sometimes they will remain two days1 and not make a particle4 ,i have known them to swarm out and cluster in the usual way1 and when rehived1 commence at once4 ,this seems to prove that they can retain the wax1 or prevent secreting it1 till wanted4 ,this seldom occurs4 ,,uncertainty ,,in ,,weight ,,of ,,bees4 ,a large swarm will probably carry with them some five or six pounds of honey from the parent stock4 ,i only guess at this1 because ,i am uncertain what the bees weigh exactly4 ,i can tell you1 some one exclaims1 ,i saw some weighed1--so many weigh just eight ounces4 ,are you sure there was nothing but bees weighed8 ,was there no honey1 bee-bread1 faeces1 or other substance1 that might deceive you8 ,can't say2 ,i never thought of that6 ,now it is important1 if we weigh bees to know their weight1 to be sure we weigh nothing else4 ,it is evident1 that if five thousand weigh three pounds1 when nothing is in their sacks1 they would weigh1 when filled with honey1 several pounds more4 ,hence1 the fallacy of judging of the size of a swarm by weight1 as one swarm might issue with half the honey of another4 ,perhaps eight pounds1 for large swarms1 might be an average for bees and honey4 ,this honey1 whatever it amounts to1 cannot be stored till combs are constructed to hold it4 ,this principle holds good till the hive is full4 ,that is1 whenever they have more honey than the combs will hold1 if there is room in the hive1 they construct more4 ,but they seem to go no farther than this in comb-making4 ,however large the swarm may be1 this compulsion appears necessary to fill the hive4 ,drone-cells are seldom made in the top of the hive1 but a part are generally joined on the worker-cells1 a little distance from the top2 others near the bottom4 ,there seems to be no rule about the number of such cells4 ,some hives will contain twice the number of others4 ,it may depend on the yield of honey at the time2 when very plenty1 more drone-cells1 c4 ,if the hive be very large1 no doubt an unprofitable number would be constructed4 ,where the large and small cells join1 there will be some cells of irregular shape2 some with four or five angles2 the distance from one angle to the other is also varied4 ,even where two combs of cells the same size join1 making a straight comb1 they are not always perfect4 ,,some ,,wax ,,wasted4 ,when constructing comb1 they are constantly wasting wax1 either accidentally or voluntarily4 ,the next morning after a swarm is located1 the scales may be found1 and will continue to increase as long as they are working it2 the quantity often amounts to a handful or more4 ,it is the best test of comb-making that ,i can give4 ,clean off the board and look the next morning1 you will find the scales in proportion to their progress4 ,some will be nearly round as at first2 others more or less worked up1 and a part will be like fine saw-dust4 ,huber and some others have divided the working bees into different classes1 denominating some wax-workers1 others nurses1 and pollen gatherers1 c4 ,it may be partially true1 but how it was found out is the mystery4 ,the angles in the cells used for brood1 are gradually filled1 and after a time become round1 both at the ends and sides4 ,,water ,,necessary ,,to ,,comb-,,making4 ,whenever bees are engaged making comb1 a supply of water is absolutely necessary4 ,some think it requisite in rearing brood4 ,it may be needed for that1 or it may be required for both purposes2 but yet ,i have doubts if a particle is given to the young bee1 besides what the honey contains4 ,june1 and first part of ,july1 and most part of ,august 7the season of buckwheat17 are periods of extensive comb-making2 they then use most water2 breeding is carried on from ,march till ,october1 and as extensively in ,may1 perhaps more so1 than in ,august1 yet not a tenth part of the water is used in ,may4 ,i have known stocks repeatedly to mature brood from the egg to the perfect bee1 when shut in a dark room for months1 when it was impossible to obtain a drop2 also stocks that stand in the cold1 7if good17 will mature some brood whether the bees can leave the hive or not4 ,these facts prove that some are reared without water4 ,as they get sufficient honey to require more comb to store it1 they will at the same time have a brood2 and it is easy to guess they need it for brood as comb1 without a little investigation4 ,this much is certain1 that they use water at such times for some purpose1 and when no pond1 brook1 spring1 or other source is within convenient distance1 the apiarian would find it economy to place some within their reach1 as it would save much valuable time1 if they would otherwise have to go a great distance1 when they might be more profitably employed2 it always happens in a season of honey4 ,it should be so situated that the bees may obtain it without jeopardizing their lives2--a barrel or pail has sides so steep that a great many will slip off and drown4 ,a trough made very shallow1 with a good broad strip around the edge to afford an alighting place1 should be provided4 ,the middle should contain a float1 or a handful of shavings spread in the water with a few small stones laid on them to prevent their being blown away when the water is out1 is very convenient4 ,a tin dish an inch or so in depth1 will do very well4 ,the quantity needed may be ascertained by what is used--only give them enough1 and change it daily4 ,i have no trouble of this kind1 as there is a stream of water within a few rods of the hives2 but ,i have an opportunity to witness something of the number engaged in carrying it4 ,thousands may be seen 7in ,june and ,august7 filling their sacks1 while a continual stream is on the wing1 going and returning4 ,,remarks4 ,the exact and uniform size of their cells is perhaps as great a mystery as anything pertaining to them2 yet1 we find the second wonder before we are done with the first4 ,in building comb1 they have no square or compass as a guide2 no master mechanic takes the lead1 measuring and marking for the workmen2 each individual among them is a finished mechanic6 ,no time is lost as an apprentice1 no service given in return for instruction6 ,each is accomplished from birth6 ,all are alike2 what one begins1 a dozen may help to finish6 ,a specimen of their work shows itself to be from the hands of master workmen1 and may be taken as a model of perfection6 ,he1 who arranged the universe1 was their instructor4 ,yes1 a profound geometrician planned the first cell1 and knowing what would be their wants1 implanted in the sensorium of the first bee1 all things pertaining to their welfare2 the impress then given1 is yet retained unimpaired6 ,they need no lectures on domestic economy to tell them1 by using the base of one set of cells on one side of their combs1 for the base of those on the opposite1 will save both labor and wax2 no mathematician that a pyramidal base1 just three angles1 with just such an inclination1 will be the exact shape needed1 and consume much less wax than round or square--that the base of one cell of three angles1 would form a part of the base of three other cells on the opposite side of the comb--that each of the six sides of one cell forms one side of six others around it--that these angles and these only would answer their ends4 ,the bees appear1 says ,reaumer1 to have a problem to solve1 which would puzzle many a mathematician4 ,a quantity of matter being given1 it is required to form out of it cells1 which shall be equal1 and similar1 and of a determinate size1 but the largest possible with relation to the quantity of matter employed1 while they shall occupy the least possible space6 ,how little does the epicure heed1 when feasting on the fruits of their industry1 that each morsel tasted must destroy the most perfect specimens of workmanship6 that in a moment he can demolish what it has taken hours1 yes days1 perhaps weeks1 of assiduous toil and labor1 for the bees to accomplish6 ,,chapter ,,vi4 ,,propolis4 ,,what ,,used ,,for4 ,this substance is first used to solder up all the cracks1 flaws1 and irregularities about the hive4 ,a coat is then spread over the inside throughout2 when the hive is full1 and many bees cluster outside1 the latter part of summer1 a coat of it is also spread there4 ,an additional coat it seems is annually applied1 as old hives will be coated with a thickness proportionate to its age1 providing it has been occupied with a strong family4 ,huber has said it was also used to strengthen the cells when first made1 by mixing it with the wax4 ,if it was their practice at that time1 the practice has been abandoned by our bees to a great extent4 ,i have made examinations when comb was first made1 when it contained eggs1 and when it contained larvae1 and have never been able to find anything other than pure wax composing it4 ,after a young bee has matured in a cell1 the coating or cocoon that it leaves is of a dark color1 somewhat resembling it1 and may have given rise to the supposition4 ,how the article is obtained1 appears to be the mystery4 ,this is a subject about which apiarians have failed to agree4 ,a few contend that it is an elaborated substance2 while others assert it to be a resinous gum1 exuding from certain trees1 and collected by the bees like pollen4 ,it differs materially from wax1 being more tenacious1 and when it gets a little age1 much harder4 ,,is ,,it ,,an ,,elaborate ,,or ,,natural ,,substance8 ,no modern observer has ever been able to detect the bees in the act of gathering it4 ,,huber',s ,,opinion4 ,huber tells us1 that near the outlet of one of his hives1 he placed some of the branches of the poplar1 which exuded a transparent juice1 the color of garnet4 ,several workers were soon seen perched upon these branches1--having detached some of this resinous gum1 they formed it into pellets1 and deposited them in the baskets of their thighs2 thus loaded1 they flew to the hive1 where some of their fellow-laborers instantly came to assist them in detaching this viscid substance from their baskets4 ,some of our modern apiarians have doubted this account of ,huber's4 ,now1 in the absence of anything positive on this subject1 ,i am inclined to adopt this theory2 that it is a resin or gum produced by trees4 7,i cannot say that ,i am exactly satisfied with the story of bringing the branches and laying them by the hive1 c47 ,that bees gather it in its natural state1 is in accordance with my own observation4 ,,further ,,proof4 ,our first swarms that issue in ,may1 or first of ,june1 seldom use much of the article pure for soldering and plastering2 but instead1 a composition1 the most of which is wax4 ,i have noticed at this season1 when old pieces of boards that had been used for hives1 were left in the sun1 that this old propolis would become soft in the middle of the day4 ,here ,i have frequently seen the bees at work1 packing it upon their legs2 it was detached in small particles1 and the process of packing was seen distinctly1 as the bee did not fly during the operation1 as in the case of packing pollen4 ,it is asserted that when bees need it they always have it1 indicating that they can elaborate it like wax4 ,i can see no reason why they do not need it in ,june as much as ,august2 yet1 in the latter month1 they use more than a hundred times the quantity4 ,at this time1 they manifest no disposition to gather any from the old boards1 c4 ,it would seem they prefer the article new1 which they now have in abundance4 ,boxes filled in ,june contain but very little1 sometimes none4 ,why not1 if they have enough of it8 but when filled in ,august1 they always have the corners1 and sometimes the top and sides1 lined with a good coat4 ,cracks1 large enough for bees to pass through1 are sometimes completely filled with it4 ,in this season1 a little before sunset of some fair day1 ,i have frequently seen the bees enter the hive with what ,i supposed to be the pure article on their legs1 like pollen1 except the surface1 which would be smooth and glossy2 the color much lighter than when it gets age4 ,i have also seen them through the glass inside1 when they seemed unable to dislodge it themselves1 like pollen1 and were continually running around among those engaged in soldering and plastering2 when one required a little1 it seized hold of the pellet with its teeth or forceps1 and detached a portion4 ,the whole lump will not cleave off at once2 but firmly adheres to the leg2 from its tenacity1 perhaps a string an inch long will be formed in separating1 the piece obtained is immediately applied to their work1 and the bee is ready to supply another with a portion2 it doubtless gets rid of its load in this way2 it is difficult to watch it till it is freed from the whole1 as it is soon lost among its fellows4 ,now if this substance is not found in its natural state1 how does it happen that they pack it on their legs just as they do when getting it from a board of an old hive1 or pollen1 when collected8 ,they never take the trouble to pack the wax there1 when elaborated4 ,do not these circumstances strongly favor the idea of its being a vegetable substance8 ,perhaps the reason of its being collected at this season in greater abundance1 may be found in the fact1 that the buds of trees and shrubs are now generally formed4 ,many kinds are protected from rain and frost1 by a kind of gum or resinous coating4 ,it may be found in many species of ,populus1 particularly the balsam poplar1 7,populus ,balsamifera7 and the ,balm of ,gilead1 7,populus ,candicans74 ,by boiling the buds of these trees1 an aromatic resin or gum may be obtained1 7used sometimes for making salve27 the odor is very similar to that emitted by propolis1 when first gathered by the bees1 or by heating it afterwards4 ,in the absence of facts1 we are apt to substitute theory4 ,this appears to me to be very plausible4 ,yet ,i am ready to yield it as soon as facts decide differently4 ,perhaps not one bee in a thousand is engaged in collecting this substance--there being so few may be one reason why they are not often detected1 yet few as they are1 a few of us should set about close observation2 something certain might decide4 ,apiarian science is sadly neglected2 a large amount of error is mixed up with truth1 that patient1 scrutinizing investigation must separate4 ,,remarks4 ,i feel anxious to get to the practical part of this work1 which ,i hope will interest some readers who care but little about the natural history4 ,i shall begin with spring1 and will now endeavor to mix more of the practical with it1 as we proceed to the end of the year4 ,in order to illustrate some points of practice1 ,i may have occasion to repeat some things already mentioned4 ,,chapter ,,vii4 ,,the ,,apiary4 ,,its ,,location4 ,in the location of the apiary1 one important consideration is1 that it is convenient to watch in the swarming season2 that the bees may be seen at any time from a door or window1 when a swarm rises1 without the trouble of taking many steps to accomplish it2 because if much trouble is to be taken1 it is too often neglected4 ,also1 if possible1 the hives should stand where the wind will have but little effect1 especially from the northwest4 ,if no hills or building offer a protection1 a close1 high board fence should be put up for the purpose4 ,it is economy to do it--bees enough may be saved to pay the expense4 ,during the first spring months1 the stocks contain fewer bees than at any other season4 ,it is then that a numerous family is important1 for the purpose of creating animal heat to rear the brood1 if for nothing else4 ,one bee is of more consequence now than a half dozen in midsummer4 ,when the hive stands in a bleak place1 the bees returning with heavy loads1 in a high wind1 are frequently unable to strike the hive1 and are blown to the ground2 become chilled1 and die4 ,a chilly south wind is equally fatal1 but not so frequent4 ,when protected from winds1 the hives may front any point you choose2 east or south is generally preferred4 ,a location near ponds1 lakes1 large rivers1 c41 will be attended with some loss4 ,hard winds will fatigue the bees when on the wing1 often causing them to alight in the water2 where it is impossible to rise again until wafted ashore1 and then1 unless in very warm weather1 they are so chilled as to be past the effort4 ,i do not mention this to discourage any one from keeping them1 when so situated1 because some few must keep them thus or not at all4 ,i am so situated myself4 ,there is a pond of four acres1 some twelve rods off4 ,in spring1 during high winds1 a great many may be found drowned1 and driven on shore4 ,although we cannot miss so few from a stock1 it is nevertheless a loss as far as it goes4 ,,decide ,,early4 ,whatever location is chosen1 it should be decided upon as early in the spring as possible2 because1 when the chilling winds of winter have ceased for a day1 and the sun1 unobstructed1 is sending his first warm rays to a frozen earth1 the bees that have been inactive for months1 feel the cheering influence1 and come forth to enjoy the balmy air4 ,as they come from their door1 they pause a moment to rub their eyes1 which have long been obscured in darkness4 ,,bees ,,mark ,,their ,,location ,,on ,,leaving ,,the ,,hive4 ,they rise on the wing1 but do not leave in a direct line1 but immediately turn their heads towards the entrance of their tenement1 describing a circle of only a few inches at first1 but enlarge as they recede1 until an area of several rods have been viewed and marked4 ,,changing ,,stand ,,attended ,,with ,,loss4 ,after a few excursions1 when surrounding objects have become familiar1 this precaution is not taken1 and they leave in a direct line for their destination1 and return by their way-marks without difficulty4 ,man with his reason is guided on the same principles4 ,there are a great many people who suppose the bee knows its hive by a kind of instinct1 or is attracted towards it1 like the steel to the magnet4 ,at least1 they act as if they did2 as they often move their bees a few rods1 or feet1 after the location is thus marked1 and what is the consequence8 ,the stocks are materially injured by loss of bees1 and sometimes entirely ruined4 ,let us trace the cause4 ,as ,i remarked1 the bees have marked the location4 ,they leave the hive without any precaution1 as surrounding objects are familiar4 ,they return to their old stand and find no home4 ,if there is more than one stock1 and the removal has been from four to twenty feet1 some of the bees may find a hive1 but just as liable to enter the wrong one as the right4 ,probably they would not go over twenty feet1 and very likely not that1 unless the new situation was very conspicuous4 ,if a person had but one stock1 very likely the loss would be less1 as every bee finding a hive1 would be sure to be home1 and none killed1 as is generally the case when a few enter a strange hive4 ,,can ,,be ,,taken ,,some ,,distance4 ,when bees are taken beyond their knowledge of country1 some two miles or more1 the case seems to be somewhat different1 but not always without loss1 especially if many hives are set too close4 ,they leave the hive of course without knowing that the situation has been changed2 perhaps get a few feet before strange objects warn them of the fact4 ,when they return1 the immediate vicinity is strange1 and they often enter their neighbors' domicil4 ,,danger ,,of ,,setting ,,stocks ,,too ,,close4 ,a case in point occurred in the spring of '#di4 ,i sold over twenty stocks to one person4 ,he had constructed a bee-house1 and his arrangement brought the hives within four inches of each other4 ,the result was1 he entirely lost several stocks2 some of them were the best2 others were materially injured1 yet he had a few made better by the addition of bees from other hives2 7sometimes a stock will allow strange bees to unite with them1 but it is seldom1 unless a large number enters--it is safest to keep each family by itself1 under ordinary circumstances74 ,these stocks1 before they were moved1 had been collecting pollen1 and had their location well marked4 ,had they been placed six feet apart1 instead of four inches1 he probably would not have lost any1 or even two feet might have saved them4 ,i have often moved them at this season1 and placed them at three feet distance1 and had no bad results4 ,facts like the foregoing1 satisfied me long since that stocks should occupy their situation for the summer1 as early as possible in the spring1 at least before they mark the location2 or if they must be moved after that1 let it be nothing short of a mile and a half1 and plenty of room between the hives4 ,,space ,,between ,,hives4 ,as regards the distance between hives generally1 ,i would say let it be as great as convenience will allow4 ,want of room makes it necessary sometimes to set them close2 where such necessity exists1 if the hives were dissimilar in color1 some dark1 others light1 alternately1 it would greatly assist the bees in knowing their own hive4 ,but it should be borne in mind1 that whenever economy of space dictates less than two feet1 there are often bees enough lost by entering the wrong hive1 which1 if saved1 would pay the rent of a small addition to a garden1 or bee-yard4 ,i have several other reasons to offer for giving plenty of room between hives1 which will be mentioned hereafter4 ,,small ,,matters4 ,the reader who is accustomed to doing things on gigantic principles1 will consider this long yarn about saving a few bees in spring1 a rather small affair1 and so it is2 yet small matters must be attended to if we succeed2 a small leak will sink a ship4 ,a grain of wheat is a small matter2 'tis only in the aggregate that its importance is manifest4 ,the bee is small1 the load of honey brought home by it is still less1 and the quantity secreted in the nectary of each flower1 yet more minute4 ,the patient bee visits each1 and obtains but a tiny morsel2 by perseverance a load is obtained1 and deposited in the hive2 it is only by the accumulation of such loads that we find an object worthy our notice3 here is a lesson2 look to little things1 and the manner in which they are multiplied1 and preserved4 ,it is much better to save our bees than waste them1 and wait for others to be raised2 a penny saved is worth two-pence earned4 ,if a stock is lost by small means1 a corresponding effort is only necessary to save it4 ,this trifling care is sometimes neglected through indolence4 ,but ,i hope for better things generally2 ,i am willing to believe it is thorough ignorance1 not knowing what kind of care is necessary--how1 when1 and where to bestow it4 ,this is what now appears to be my duty to tell4 ,you will now sufficiently understand the cause of loss on this point2 therefore1 let it be a rule to have all ready in spring1 before the bees leave their hives--the stands1 bee-house1 etc41 and not change them4 ,,economy4 ,if we keep bees for ornament1 it would be well to build a bee-house1 paint the hives1 c42 but as ,i expect the majority of readers will be interested in the profit of the thing1 ,i will say that the bees will not pay a cent towards extra expenses2 they will not do a whit more labor in a painted house1 than if it was thatched with straw4 ,when profit is the only object1 economy would dictate that labor shall be bestowed only where there will be a remuneration4 ,,cheap ,,arrangement ,,of ,,stands4 ,so many kinds of bee-houses and stands have been recommended--all so different from what ,i prefer1 that ,i perhaps ought to feel some hesitancy in offering one so cheap and simple2 but as profit is my object1 ,i shall offer no other apology4 ,i have fifteen years' experience to prove its efficacy1 and have no fears on this score in recommending it4 ,i make stands in this way3 a board about fifteen inches wide is cut off two feet long2 a piece of chestnut or other wood1 two inches square1 is nailed on each end2 this raises the board just two inches from the earth1 and will project in front of the hive some ten inches1 making it admirably convenient for the bees to alight before entering the hive1 7when the grass and weeds are kept down1 which is but little trouble74 ,a separate piece for each hive is better than to have several on a bench together1 as there can then be no communication by bees running to and fro4 ,also we are apt to give more room between them2 and a board or plank will make a stand for as many stocks when cut in pieces1 as if left whole2 7and it ought to make more74 ,,canal ,,bottom-,,board ,,discarded4 ,i used what is termed a canal bottom-board1 until ,i found out it did not pay expense1 and have now discarded it1 and succeed just as well4 ,it is generally recommended as a preventive of robberies1 and keeping out the moth4 ,it may prevent one hive in fifty from being robbed2 but as for keeping out the moth1 it is about as good an assistant for it as can be contrived4 ,it is a place of great convenience for the worms to spin their cocoons1 and some ingenuity of the apiarian is requisite to get at them4 ,,some ,,advantage ,,in ,,being ,,near ,,the ,,earth4 ,i am aware that ,i go counter to most apiarians1 in recommending the stands so near the earth2 less than two or three feet between the bees and the earth1 it is said1 will not answer any way4 ,mr4 ,miner is very positive on this point1 in his ,manual4 ,i ventured to suggest to him1 that there was more against it in theory1 than in practice1 and gave him my experience4 ,in less than two years from that time ,i visited him1 and found his bees close to the earth4 ,experience is worth a dozen theories2 in fact1 it is the only test to be depended upon4 ,i shall not urge the adoption of any rule1 that ,i have not proved by my own practice4 ,the objection raised1 is dampness from the earth1 when too near2 ,i am unable to perceive the least bad effect4 ,now let us compare advantages and disadvantages a little farther4 ,one hive or a row of hives suspended1 or standing on a bench1 two or three feet from the earth1 when approached by the bees on a chilly afternoon1 7and we have many such in spring17 towards evening1 even if there is not much wind1 they are very apt to miss the hive and bottom1 and fall to the ground1 so benumbed with cold1 as to be unable to rise again1 and by the next morning are no use whatever4 ,on the other hand1 if they are near the earth1 with a board as described1 there is no possibility of their alighting under the hive1 and if they should come short1 and get on the ground1 they can always creep1 long after they are too cold to fly1 and are able1 and often do enter the hive without the necessity of using their wings4 ,enough may be saved in one spring1 from a few hives1 in this way1 to make a good swarm1 which taken from several is not perceived2 yet1 as much profit from them might be realized1 as if they were a swarm by themselves4 ,a little contrivance is all that is needed to save them4 ,to such as must and will have them up away from the earth1 ,i would say1 do suggest some plan to save this portion of your best and most willing servants2 have an alighting board project in front of the hive at least one foot1 or a board long enough to reach from the bottom of the hive to the ground1 that they may get on that1 and crawl up to the hive4 ,do you want the inducement8 ,examine minutely the earth about your hives1 towards sunset1 some day in ,april1 when the day has been fair1 with some wind1 and chilly towards night1 and you will be astonished at the numbers that perish4 ,most of them will be loaded with pollen1 proving them martyrs to their own industry and your negligence4 ,when ,i see a bench three feet high and no wider than the bottom of the hive1 perhaps a little less1 and no place for the bees to enter but at the bottom1 and as many hives crowded on as it will hold1 ,i no longer wonder that bee-keeping is all in luck2 the wonder is how they keep them at all4 ,yet it proves that1 with proper management1 it is not so very precarious after all4 ,the necessary protection from the weather1 for stocks1 is a subject that ,i have taken some pains to ascertain2 the result has been1 that the cheapest covering is just as good as any2 something to keep the rain and rays of the sun from the top1 is all sufficient4 ,covers for each hive1 like the bottom-board1 should be separate1 and some larger than the top4 ,,utility ,,of ,,bee-,,houses ,,doubted4 ,i have used bee-houses1 but they will not pay1 and are also discarded4 ,they are objectionable on account of preventing a free circulation of air2 also1 it is difficult to construct them1 so that the sun may strike the hives both in the morning and afternoon2 which in spring is very essential4 ,if they front the south1 the middle of the day is the only time when the sun can reach all the hives at once2 this is just when they need it least2 and in hot weather1 sometimes injurious by melting the combs4 ,but when the hives stand far enough apart1 on my plan1 it is very easily arranged to have the sun strike the hive in the morning and afternoon1 and shaded from ten o'clock1 till two or three1 in hot weather4 ,notwithstanding our prodigality in building a splendid bee-house1 we think of economy when we come to put our hives in1 and get them too close4 ,can't afford to build a house1 and give them so much room1 no how4 ,,chapter ,,viii4 ,,robberies4 ,robbing is another source of occasional loss to the apiarian4 ,it is frequent in spring1 and at any time in warm weather when honey is scarce4 ,it is very annoying1 and sometimes gets neighbors in contention1 when perhaps neither is to blame1 farther than ignorance of the matter4 ,,not ,,properly ,,understood4 ,a person keeping many hives must expect to be accountable for all losses in his neighborhood1 whether they are lost by mismanagement or want of management4 ,many people suppose1 if one person has but one stock1 and another has ten1 that the ten will combine for plundering the one4 ,there are no facts1 showing any communication between different families of the same apiary1 that ,i can discover4 ,it is true1 when one family finds another weak and defenceless1 possessing treasure1 they have no conscientious scruples about carrying off the last particle4 ,the hurry and bustle attending it seldom escape the notice of the other families2 and when one hive has been robbed in an apiary1 perhaps two-thirds of the other families1 sometimes all1 have participated in the plunder4 ,one family1 if it be large1 is just as likely1 and more so1 to find a weak one among the ten1 and commence plundering1 as the other way4 ,,improper ,,remedies4 ,notwithstanding it is common to hear remarks like this1 ,i had a first-rate hive of bees1 7when the fact was he had not looked particularly at his bees for a month1 to know whether it was so or not1 and if he had1 very likely would not know17 and ,mr4 ,a4's bees began to rob them4 ,i tried every thing to stop it2 ,i moved them around in several places to prevent their finding the hive4 ,it did no good2 the first ,i knew they were all gone--bees1 honey1 and all6 ,the bees all joined the robbers4 ,now the fact is1 that not one good stock of bees in fifty1 will ever be robbed1 if let alone2 that is1 if the entrance is properly protected4 ,this moving the hive was enough to ruin any stock2 bees were lost at every change1 until nothing was left but honey to tempt the robbers2 whereas1 if left on its stand1 it might have escaped4 ,a great many remedies have been given me gratis1 which1 had one-half been followed1 would have ruined them4 ,the fact is1 with many people1 the remedies are often the cause of the disease4 ,the most fatal is1 to move them a few rods2 another1 to close the hive entirely1 7very liable to smother them72 or1 break out some comb and set the honey to running4 ,there are some charms that affect them but little any way4 ,probably there are but few bee-keepers able to tell at once1 when bees are being robbed4 ,it requires the closest scrutinizing observation to decide4 ,,difficulty ,,in ,,deciding4 ,there is nothing about the apiary more difficult to determine1 nothing more likely than to be deceived4 ,it is generally supposed1 when a number are outside fighting1 that it is conclusive that they are also robbing1 which is seldom the case4 ,on the contrary1 a show of resistance indicates a strong colony1 and that they are disposed to defend their treasures4 ,i no longer have any fears for a stock that has courage to repel an attack4 ,,weak ,,families ,,in ,,most ,,danger4 ,it is weak families1 that show no resistance1 where we find the most danger4 ,in seasons of scarcity1 all good stocks maintain or keep sentinels about the entrance1 whose duty it appears to be to examine every bee that attempts to enter4 ,if it is a member of the community1 it is allowed to pass2 if not1 it is examined on the spot4 ,it would seem that a password was requisite for admittance1 for no sooner does a stranger-bee endeavor to get in1 than it is known4 ,if without necessary credentials1 there is evidence enough against it4 ,each bee is a qualified jurist1 judge1 and executioner4 ,there is no delay2 no waiting for witnesses for defence4 ,the more a bee attempts to escape1 the more likely it will be to receive a sting1 unless it succeeds4 ,how strange bees are known1 would be nothing but theory1 if ,i should attempt to explain4 ,let it suffice that they are known4 ,,their ,,battles4 ,i will here describe some of their battles4 ,i have in the spring frequently seen the whole front side of the hive covered with the combatants1 7but for such hives ,i have no fears2 they are able to defend themselves47 ,several will surround one stranger2 one or two will bite its legs1 another the wings2 another will make a feint of stinging1 while another is ready to take what honey it has1 when worried sufficient to make it willing4 ,it is sometimes allowed to go after yielding all its honey1 but at others1 is dispatched with a sting1 which is almost instantly fatal4 ,a bee is killed sooner by a sting1 than by any other means1 except crushing4 ,sometimes a leg will tremble1 for a minute2 the legs are drawn close to the body2 the abdomen contracts to half its usual size1 unless filled with honey4 ,i have known a pint accidentally to enter a neighboring stock1 and be killed in five minutes4 ,the only places the sting will penetrate a bee are the joints of the abdomen1 legs1 the neck1 c4 ,i have occasionally seen one bee drag about the dead body of its victim1 being unable to withdraw its sting from a joint in the leg4 ,during the fight1 if it be to keep off those in search of plunder1 a few bees may be seen buzzing around in search of a place unguarded to enter the hive4 ,if such is found1 it alights and enters in a moment4 ,at other times1 when about to enter1 it meets a soldier on duty1 and is on the wing again in an instant4 ,but another time it may be more unfortunate1 and be nabbed by a policeman1 when it must either break away1 or suffer the penalty of insect justice1 which is generally of the utmost severity4 ,,bad ,,policy ,,to ,,raise ,,the ,,hives4 ,a great many apiarians raise their hives an inch from the board early in spring4 ,they seem to disregard the chance it gives robbers to enter on every side4 ,it is like setting the door of your own house open1 to tempt the thief1 and then complain of depravity4 ,let it be understood1 then1 that all good stocks1 under ordinary circumstances1 will take care of themselves4 ,nature has provided means of defence1 with instinct to direct its use4 ,non-resistance may do for highly cultivated intellect in man1 but not here4 ,,indications ,,of ,,robbers4 ,we will now notice the appearance about a weak hive that makes no resistance1 and show the result to be a total loss of the stock1 without timely interference4 ,each robber1 when leaving the hive1 instead of flying in a direct line to its home1 will turn its head towards the hive to mark the spot1 that it may know where to return for another load1 in the same manner that they do when leaving their hive in the spring4 ,the first time the young bees leave home1 they mark their location1 by the same process4 ,a few of these begin to hatch from the cells very early2 in all good stocks1 often before the weather is warm enough for any to leave the hive4 ,consequently1 it cannot be too early for them at any time in spring4 ,these young bees1 about the middle of each fair day1 or a little later1 take a turn of flying out very thickly for a short time4 ,the inexperienced observer would be very likely to suppose such stock very prosperous1 from the number of inhabitants in motion4 ,this unusual bustle is the first indication of foul play1 and should be regarded with suspicion2 yet it is not conclusive4 ,a ,,duty4 ,it is the duty of every bee-keeper1 who expects to succeed1 to know which his weak stocks are2 an examination some cool morning1 can be made by turning the hive bottom up1 and letting the sun among the combs4 ,the number of inhabitants in them is easily seen4 ,when weak1 close the entrance1 till there is just room for one bee to pass at once4 ,the first real pleasant days1 at any time before honey is obtained plentifully1 a little after noon1 look out for them to commence robbing4 ,whenever a weak stock is taken with what appears to be a fit of unusual industry1 it is quite certain they are either robbers or young bees2 the difficulty is to decide which4 ,their motions are alike1 but there is a little difference in color--the young bees are a shade lighter2 the abdomen of the robbers1 when filled with honey1 is a little larger4 ,it requires close1 patient observation1 to decide this point1 and when you have watched close enough to detect this difference1 you can decide without trouble4 ,a ,,test4 ,but while you are learning this nice distinction1 your bees may be ruined4 ,we will1 therefore1 give some other means of protection4 ,bees1 when they have been stealing a sack of honey from a neighboring hive1 will generally run several inches from the entrance before flying3 kill some of these2 if filled with honey1 they are robbers2 because it is very suspicious1 to be filled with honey when leaving the hive2 or sprinkle some flour on them as they come out1 and have some one watch by the others to see if they enter4 ,another way is less trouble1 but will take longer1 before they are checked1 if robbing4 ,visit them again in the course of half an hour or more1 after the young bees have had time to get back1 7if it should happen to be them72 but if the bustle continues or increases1 it is time to interfere4 ,when the entrance has been contracted as directed1 close it entirely till near sunset4 ,when it has been left without1 it should now be done1 7giving room for only one bee at a time74 ,this will allow all that belong to the hive to get in1 and others to get out1 and materially retard the progress of the robbers4 ,,robbing ,,usually ,,commences ,,on ,a ,,warm ,,day4 ,unless it should be cool1 they will continue their operations till evening4 ,very often some are unable to get home in the dark1 and are lost4 ,this1 by the way1 is another good test of robbing4 ,visit the hives every warm evening4 ,they commence depredations on the warmest days2 seldom otherwise4 ,if any are at work when honest laborers should be at home1 they need attention4 ,,remedies4 ,as for remedies1 ,i have tried several4 ,the least trouble is to remove the weak hive in the morning to the cellar1 or some dark1 cool place1 for a few days1 until at least two or three warm days have passed1 that they may abandon the search4 ,the robbers will then probably attack the stock on the next stand4 ,contract the entrance of this in accordance with the number of bees that are to pass4 ,if strong1 no danger need be apprehended2 they may fight1 and even kill some2 perhaps a little chastisement is necessary1 to a sense of their duty4 ,,common ,,opinion4 ,there is an opinion prevalent that robbers often go to a neighboring stock1 kill off the bees first1 and then take possession of the treasures4 ,to corroborate this matter1 ,i have never yet discovered one fact1 although ,i have watched very closely4 ,whenever bees have had all their stores taken1 at a period when nothing was to be had in the flowers1 it is evident they must starve1 and last but a day or two before they are gone4 ,this would naturally give rise to the supposition that they were either killed1 or gone with the robbers4 ,a ,,case ,,in ,,point4 ,i have a case in point4 ,having been from home a couple of days1 ,i found1 on my return1 a swarm of medium strength1 that had been carelessly exposed1 had been plundered of about fifteen pounds of honey1 every particle they had4#ac ,about the usual number of bees were among the combs1 to all appearance1 very disconsolate4 ,i at once removed them to the cellar1 and fed them for a few days4 ,the other bees gave over looking for more plunder1 in the meantime4 ,it was then returned to the stand1 entrance nearly closed1 as directed1 c4 ,in a short time it made a valuable stock2 but had ,i left it twenty-four hours longer1 it probably would not have been worth a straw4 #ac ,it occurred the last of ,july4 ,,further ,,directions4 ,when a stock has been removed1 if the next stand contains a weak1 instead of a strong one1 it is best to take that in also2 to be returned to the stand as soon as the robbers will allow it4 ,if a second attack is made1 put them in again1 or if practicable1 remove them a mile or two out of their knowledge of country2 they would then lose no time from labor4 ,where but few stocks are kept1 and not more than one or two stocks are engaged1 sprinkle a little flour on them as they leave1 to ascertain which the robbers are2 then reverse the hives1 putting the weak one in the place of the strong1 and the strong one in the place of the weak one4 ,the weak stock will generally become the strongest1 and put a stop to their operations2 but this method is often impracticable in a large apiary2 because several stocks are usually engaged1 very soon after one commences1 and a dozen may be robbing one4 ,another method is1 when you are sure a stock is being robbed1 take a time when there are as many plunderers inside as you can get1 and close the hive at once1 7wire-cloth1 or something to admit air1 and at the same time confine the bees1 is necessary27 carry in1 as before directed1 for two or three days1 when they may be set out4 ,the strange bees thus enclosed will join the weak family1 and will be as eager to defend what is now their treasure1 as they were before to carry it off4 ,this principle of forgetting home and uniting with others1 after a lapse of a few days1 7writers say1 twenty-four hours is sufficient for them to forget home7 can be recommended in this case4 ,it succeeds about four times in five1 when a proper number is enclosed4 ,weak stocks are strengthened in this way very easily2 and the bees being taken from a number of hives1 are hardly missed4 ,the difficulty is1 to know when there are enough to be about equal1 to what belongs to the weak stock2 if too few are enclosed1 they are surely destroyed4 ,,common ,,cause ,,of ,,commencing4 ,after all1 bees being robbed is like being destroyed by worms2 a kind of secondary matter2 that is1 not one strong stock in a hundred will ever be attacked and plundered on the first onset4 ,bees must be first tempted1 and rendered furious by a weak hive2 a dish of refuse honey set near them is sometimes sufficient to set them at work1 also where they have been fed and not had a full supply4 ,after they have once commenced1 it takes an astonishing quantity to satiate their appetite4 ,they seem to be perfectly intoxicated1 and regardless of danger2 they venture on to certain destruction6 ,i have known a few instances where good stocks by this means were reduced1 until they in turn fell a prey to others4 ,i have for several years kept about one hundred stocks away from home1 where ,i could not see them much1 to prevent robbing4 ,yet ,i never lost a stock by this cause4 ,i simply keep the entrance closed1 except a passage for the bees at work during spring4 ,it is true ,i have lost a few stocks1 when the other bees took the honey1 but they would have been lost any way4 ,,spring ,,the ,,worst ,,time4 ,as ,i before remarked in the commencement of this chapter1 bees will plunder and fight at any time through the summer1 when honey cannot be collected2 but spring is the only time that such desperate and persevering efforts are made to obtain it4 ,it is the only time the apiarian can be excused for having his hives plundered1 or letting them stand in a situation for it4 ,we then often have families reduced in winter and spring1 from various causes1 and when protected through this season1 generally make good stocks4 ,it is then we wish them to form steady1 industrious habits1 and not live by plunder4 ,prevention is better than cure2 evil propensities should be checked in the beginning4 ,the bee1 like man1 when this disposition has been indulged for a time1 it is hard breaking the habit2 a severe chastisement is the only cure2 they too go on the principle of much wanting more4 ,,no ,,necessity ,,to ,,have ,,the ,,bees ,,plundered ,,in ,,the ,,fall4 ,the apiarian having his bees plundered in the fall1 is not fit to have charge of them2 their efforts are seldom as strong as in spring1 7unless there is a general scarcity17 the weak hives are usually better supplied with bees1 and consequently a less number is exposed2 but yet1 when there are some very weak families1 these should be taken away as soon as the flowers fail1 or strengthened with bees from another hive4 ,particulars in fall management4 ,i have sometimes made my swarms equal1 early in spring1 by the following method1 and ,i have also failed4 ,bees1 when wintered together in a room1 will seldom quarrel when first set out4 ,when one stock has an over supply of bees1 and another a very few1 the next day or two after being out1 ,i change the weak one to the stand of the strong one1 7as mentioned a page or two back17 and all bees that have marked the location return to that place4 ,the failure is1 when too many leave the strong stock1 making that the weak one1 when nothing is gained4 ,if it could be done when they had been out of the house just long enough for the proper number to have marked the location1 success would be quite certain4 ,but before an exchange of this kind is made1 it would be well1 if possible2 to ascertain what is the cause of a stock being weak2 if it is from the loss of a queen1 7which is sometimes the case17 we only make the matter worse by the operation4 ,to ascertain whether the queen be present1 do not depend on the bees carrying in pollen2 as most writers assert they will not1 when the queen is gone2 because ,i have known them do it so many times without1 that ,i can assure the reader again1 it is no test whatever4 ,the test given in chapter ,,iii4 page #gc1 is always certain4 ,,chapter ,,ix4 ,,feeding4 ,,should ,,be ,a ,,last ,,resort4 ,feeding bees in spring is sometimes absolutely necessary2 but in ordinary seasons and circumstances1 it is somewhat doubtful if it is the surest road to success1 for the apiarian to attempt wintering any stock so poorly supplied with honey1 that he feels satisfied will need feeding in the spring or before4 ,i will recommend in another place 7in fall management7 what ,i consider a better disposition of such light families4 ,but as some stocks are either robbed1 or from some other cause1 consume more honey than we expect1 a little trouble and care may save a loss4 ,also bees are often fed at this season to promote early swarming1 and filling boxes with surplus honey4 ,,care ,,needed4 ,considerable care is requisite1 and but few know how to manage it properly4 ,honey fed to bees1 is almost certain to get up quarrels among them4 ,sometimes strong stocks scent the honey given to weak ones1 and carry it off as fast as supplied4 ,,apparent ,,contradiction ,,when ,,feeding ,,causing ,,starvation4 ,it is possible that feeding a stock of bees in spring1 may cause them to starve6 whereas1 if let alone1 they might escape4 ,notwithstanding this looks like a contradiction1 ,i think it appears reasonable4 ,whenever the supply of honey is short1 probably not more than one egg in twenty which the queen deposits1 will be matured--their means not allowing the young brood to be fed4 ,this appears from the fact that several eggs may be found in one cell4 ,i transferred over twenty stocks in ,march1 #aheb--most of the cells occupied with eggs contained a plurality2 two1 three1 and even four1 were found in one cell2 it is evident that all could not be perfected4 ,also1 the fact of these eggs being at this season on the bottom-board4 ,now suppose you give such a stock two or three pounds of honey1 and they are encouraged to feed a large brood1 and your supply fails before they are half grown4 ,what are they to do8 destroy the brood and lose all they have fed1 or draw on their old stores for a small quantity to help them in this emergency1 and trust to chance for themselves8 ,the latter alternative will probably be adopted1 and then1 without a timely intervention of favorable weather1 the bees starve4 ,the same effect is sometimes produced by the changes of the weather2 a week or two may be very fine and bring out the flowers in abundance--a sudden change1 perhaps frost1 may destroy all for a few days4 ,this makes it necessary to use considerable vigilance1 as these turns of cold weather 7when they occur7 make it unsafe1 till white clover appears2 but if the spring is favorable1 there is but little danger1 unless they are robbed4 ,if you take the necessary care about worms1 you will know which are light1 and which heavy1 unless your hives are suspended2 even then1 it is a duty to know their true condition1 in this respect4 ,this is another advantage of the simple hive2 merely raising one edge to destroy worms1 tells you something about the honey on hand4 ,to be very exact1 the hive should be weighed when ready for the bees1 and the weight marked on it2 by weighing at any time after1 tells at once within a few pounds of what honey there is on hand4 ,some allowance must be made for the age of the combs1 the quantity of brood1 c4 ,it is wrong to begin to feed without being prepared to continue to do so1 as the supply must be kept up till honey is abundant4 ,,how ,,long ,,it ,,will ,,do ,,to ,,wait ,,before ,,feeding4 ,if it is wished to wait as long as possible1 and not lose the bees1 a test will be necessary to decide how long it will do to delay feeding4 ,in this case1 strict attention will be necessary2 they will need examination every morning4 ,if a light tap on the hive is answered b2 a brisk1 lively buzzing1 they are not suffering yet2 but if no answer is returned to your inquiry1 it indicates a want of strength4 ,extreme destitution destroys all disposition to repel an attack4 ,sometimes a part of the bees will be too weak to remain among the combs1 and will be lying on the bottom1 and some few outside4 ,if the weather is cool1 they appear to be lifeless2 yet they can be revived1 and now must he fed4 ,,directions ,,for ,,feeding4 ,those among the combs may be able to move1 though feebly4 ,when this is the condition of things1 invert the hive1 gather up all the scattered bees1 and put them in4 ,get some honey2 if candied1 heat it till it dissolves2 comb honey is not so good without mashing2 if no honey is to be had1 brown sugar may be taken instead2 add a little water1 and boil it till about the consistence of honey1 and skim it2 when cool enough1 pour a quantity among the combs1 directly on the bees2 cover the bottom of the hive with a cloth1 securing it firmly1 and bring to the fire to warm up4 ,in two or three hours they will be revived1 and may be returned to the stand1 providing the honey given is all taken up2 on no account let any honey run out around the bottom4 ,the necessity of a daily visit to the hives is apparent from the fact1 that if left over for one day1 in the situation just described1 it will be too late to revive them4 ,at night1 if you have a box cover1 such as ,i have recommended1 you may open the holes in the top of the hive2 fill a small baking dish with honey or syrup1 and set it on the top2 put in some shavings to keep the bees from drowning1 or a float may be used if you choose2 it should be made of some very light wood1 very thin1 and full of holes or narrow channels1 made with a saw4 ,at the commencement of feeding1 a few drops should be scattered on the top of the hive and trailed to the side of the dish1 to teach them the way2 after feeding a few times1 they will know the road4 ,when the weather is warm enough for them to take it during the night1 it is best to feed at evening1--from four to eight ounces daily1 is sufficient4 ,if the family is very small1 what honey is left in the morning may attract other bees2 it is then best to take it out1 or carry the hive in the house to a dark room1 sufficiently warm1 and feed them enough to last several days1 and then return them to the stand2 keeping a good lookout that they are not plundered1 and again in a starving condition1 until flowers produce honey sufficient4 ,,whole ,,families ,,may ,,desert ,,the ,,hive4 ,when you have the means to keep up a supply of food1 and time requisite to make feeding secure1 perhaps it would not be advisable to wait till the last extremity before feeding1 as a small family will sometimes entirely desert the hive1 when destitute1 if it occurs before they have much brood4 ,in these cases1 they issue precisely as a swarm2 after flying a long time1 they either return1 or unite with some other stock4 ,if they return1 they need attention immediately4 ,you may be certain there is something wrong1 let the desertion take place when it may2 in spring it may be destitution1 or mouldy combs2 at other times the presence of worms1 diseased brood1 c4 ,by whatever cause it is produced1 ascertain it1 and apply the remedy4 ,,objections ,,to ,,general ,,feeding4 ,i have known it recommended1 and practised by some apiarians1 to feed bees all at once in the open air1 in a large trough2 but whoever realizes much profit by this method1 will be very fortunate1 as every stock in the neighborhood will soon scent it out1 and carry off a good share1 and nearly every stock at home will be in contention1 and great numbers killed2 the moment the honey is out1 their attention is directed to other stocks4 ,another objection to this general feeding is1 that some stocks are not necessitated at all1 while others need it2 but the strongest stock is pretty sure to get the most4 ,,now1 as ,i cannot afford to divide with my neighbors in this way of feeding1 and ,i suppose but few will be found who are willing to do it1 ,i will give my method1 which1 when once arranged1 is but little trouble4 ,,arrangement ,,for ,,feeding4 ,i got a tinman to make some dishes1 two inches deep1 #ajx#ab inches square1 and perpendicular sides4 ,a board was then got out1 fifteen inches wide1 and two feet long2 two inches from one end1 a hole is cut out the longest way1 just the size of the dish1 so that it will set in just even with the upper side of the board2 a good fit should be made1 so that no bees can get in around it2 cleats should be nailed on the under side of the board1 some over an inch thick1 to prevent crowding the dish out4 ,this is to go directly under the hive1 but it is not ready yet1 because if such dish is filled with honey under a hive1 the bees would drown2 if a float is put on to keep them out1 it will settle to the bottom when the honey is out1 and the bees cannot creep up the sides of tin very easily4 ,another thing1 there is nothing to prevent the bees from making their combs to the bottom of this dish1 two inches below the bottom of the hive2 these things are to be prevented4 ,get out two pieces of half-inch board1 ten inches long1 one to be two inches wide1 the other one and a half inches4 ,with a coarse or thick saw1 cut channels in the side of the strips1 one-fourth inch deep1 three-eighths or half an inch apart1 crosswise the whole length4 ,you will then want a number corresponding to the places sawed1 of very thin shingles1 or strips1 say one-eighth of an inch thick1 and one and three-fourths wide1 and nine and a half long2 these are to stand edgewise in the dish2 the first two are to hold them in the channels at the ends4 ,the narrow one needs a block one-half inch square1 nailed on each end2 on the edge1 a strip of wire cloth is then nailed on1 making the whole width just two inches4 ,this is now put in the dish1 wire cloth at the bottom1 two inches from one end2 two pins to act as braces will keep it there2 the other wide one is placed against the other end1 and pressed down even with the top of the dish4 ,the thin pieces are now slipped into the channels even with the top2 it is now ready to go under the hive to be fed4 ,let the two-inch space project out on the back side of the hive4 ,a narrow board should be provided1 some more than two inches wide1 to cover it4 ,let the hive stand close on this board2 the hole in the side is sufficient for the passage of bees at work1 till very hot weather4 ,thus you see that the hive covers all but the space behind1 which the board covers1 and not a strange bee can get at the honey1 without entering the hole at the side1 and passing through among the bees belonging to the hive1 which they will not often do2 if the family is numerous1 it makes it as safe as feeding on the top2 with this advantage1 there are no bees in the way to interfere while pouring in the food4 ,when the bees are to be fed1 raise the board at the back and pour in the honey2 the wire-cloth in the bottom prevents all bees from entering this space1 at the same time will let the honey pass through directly under the bees1 which will take it up quicker than from any other place that ,i can put it2 they will work all night even when the weather is quite cool4 ,this board and feeder can be taken out when done feeding1 and put away till wanted again2 if left under through the summer1 it affords the worms a place rather too convenient to spin their cocoons1 where they are not easily destroyed4 ,,feeding ,,to ,,induce ,,early ,,swarms4 ,if the object in feeding is to induce early swarms1 of course the best stocks should be chosen for the purpose2 but some care is necessary not to give too much1 and fill the combs with honey1 that ought to be filled with brood1 and thereby defeat your object2 one pound per day is enough1 perhaps too much4 ,the quantity obtained from flowers is a partial guide2 when plenty1 feed less2 when scarce1 more4 ,begin as soon as you can make them take it up in spring1 and continue in accordance with the weather1 till white clover blossoms1 or swarms issue4 ,another object in feeding bees at this period1 is to have the store combs all filled with inferior honey1 so that when clover appears1 7which yields our best honey17 there is no room except in the boxes to store it1 which are now put on1 and rapidly filled4 ,when this last object is alone wished for1 it is not much matter how much is given at a time1 providing it is all taken up through the night2 it will then take no time in day-light1 when they might work on flowers2 also1 the bees would have no trouble in repelling any attempt of others to get at it4 ,,what ,,may ,,be ,,fed4 ,inferior honey may be used for this purpose2 ,southern or ,west ,india is good1 and costs but little4 ,even molasses sugar mixed with it will do2 but they do not relish it so well when fed without the honey4 ,i have usually taken about equal quantities of each1 adding a pint of water to ten pounds of this mixture1 and making it as hot as it will bear without boiling over1 and skimming it4 ,,is ,,candied ,,honey ,,injurious8 ,there has an idea been advanced1 that candied honey is injurious to bees1 even said to be fatal4 ,i never could discover any thing further1 than it was a perfect waste1 while in this state4 ,when boiled1 and a little water added1 it appears to be just as good as any4 ,nearly every stock will have more or less of it on hand at this season2 but as warm weather approaches1 and the bees increase to warm the hive1 it seems to get liquified1 from this cause alone4 ,the bees1 when compelled to use honey from these cells1 thus candied1 waste a large portion2 a part is liquid1 and the rest is grained like sugar1 which may be seen on the bottom-board1 as the bees work it out very often4 ,another object in feeding bees1 is to give inferior honey1 mixed with sugar and flavored to suit the taste1 to the bees1 and let them store it in boxes for market4 ,now1 ,i have no faith in honey undergoing any chemical change in the stomach of the bee1#ad and cannot recommend this as the honest course4 ,neither do ,i think it would be very profitable1 feeding to this extent1 under any circumstances4 ,i have a few times had some boxes nearly finished and fit for market at the end of the honey season2 a little more added would make them answer4 ,i have then fed a few pounds of good honey1 but always found that several pounds had to be given the bees to get one in the boxes4 #ad ,mr4 ,gillman's patent for feeding bees1 is based on the principle of a chemical change4 ,it is said that the food he gives to the bees1 when poured into the cells1 becomes honey of the first quality4 ,this appears extremely mysterious2 for it is well understood that when a bee has filled its sack it will go to the hive1 deposit its load1 and return immediately for more2 and will continue its labor throughout the day1 or until the supply fails2 each load occupying but few minutes4 ,the time in going from the feeder to the hive is so short that a change so important is not at all probable4 ,the nature of bees seems to be to collect honey1 not make it2 hence we find1 when bees are gathering from clover1 they store quite a different article than when from buckwheat1--or when we feed ,west ,india honey1 in quantities sufficient to have it stored pure in the boxes1 we find that it has lost none of its bad taste in passing through the sacks of our northern bees4 ,it appears most probable that1 if ,southern honey and cheap sugar form the basis of his food1 7which it is said to17 that it is flavored with something to disguise the disagreeable qualities of the compound4 ,should this be the secret1 it would seem like a waste to feed it to bees--a portion would be given to the brood1 and possibly the old bees might not always refrain from sipping a little of the tempting nectar4 ,why not1 when the compound was ready1--instead of wasting it by this process1--put it directly in market8 ,or1 is it necessary to have it in the combs to help psychologize the consumer into the belief that it is honey of a pure quality8 ,,chapter ,x4 ,,destruction ,,of ,,worms4 ,i shall not give a full history of the moth in this chapter1 as spring is not the time they are most destructive4 ,it will be further noticed under the head of ,enemies of ,bees4 ,but as this is a duty belonging to spring1 a partial history seems necessary4 ,as soon as the bees commence their labors1 the worms are generally ready to begin theirs4 ,,some ,,in ,,the ,,best ,,stocks4 ,you will probably find some in your best stocks2 but don't be frightened2 this is not the season when they often destroy your stocks1 yet they injure them some4 ,,how ,,found4 ,in the morning1 when cool1 raise the hive1 and you will find them on the board4 ,you must not suppose that these chaps are bred outside the hive1 got their growth1 and are now on their way among the bees1 but the reverse4 ,they are bred in the hive1 and most of them are on the way out1 and this is the precise time to arrest them and bring them to justice for their crimes4 ,a ,,tool ,,for ,,their ,,destruction4 ,i have used a simple tool1 made in a few minutes1 and very convenient in this business4 ,any one can make it4 ,get a piece of narrow hoop-iron1 7steel would be better17 three-fourth inch wide1 five inches long2 taper from one side three inches from the end to a point2 then grind each edge sharp2 make three or four holes through the wide end1 to admit small nails through it in the handle1 which should be about two feet long and about half an inch square4 ,armed with this weapon1 you can proceed4 ,raise the hive on one edge1 and with the point of your sword you may pick a worm out of the closest corner1 and easily scrape all from under the hive with it4 ,now1 be sure and dispatch every one2 not that the little victim will itself1 personally1 do much mischief2 but through its descendants the mischief is to be apprehended4 ,very likely half of all you find will have finished their course of destruction1 among the combs1 and have voluntarily left them for a place to spin their cocoons4 ,they are worried by the bees1 if they are numerous1 until satisfied that it is no safe place among them to make a shroud and remain helpless two or three weeks4 ,accordingly1 when they get their growth they leave1 get on the board on the bottom1 become chilled and helpless in the morning1 but again active by the middle of the day4 ,now1 if they are merely thrown on the earth1 a place there will be selected1 if no better is found1 for transformation2 and a moth perfected ten feet from the hive is just as capable of depositing five hundred eggs in your hive1 as if she had never left it4 ,several generations are matured in the course of one summer3 consequently1 one destroyed at this season1 may prevent the existence of thousands before the summer is over4 ,this is another subject of theoretical reasoning1 and imposition1 7at least in my opinion47 ,i wish the reader to judge for himself2 get rid of whims and prejudice1 and look at the subject candidly and fair2 and if there is no corroborative testimony comes up to confirm any position that ,i assume1 ,i shall not complain if my assertions fare no better than some others4 ,only defer judgment till you know for yourself4 ,bees have ever received my especial regard and attention2 and my enthusiasm may blind my judgment4 ,i may be prejudiced1 but will not be wilfully wrong4 ,i have found so many theories utterly false1 when carried out in practice1 that ,i can depend on no one's hypothesis1 however plausible1 without facts in practice to support it4 ,no one should be fully credited without a test4 ,to return to our subject4 ,,mistaken ,,conclusions4 ,it is supposed by many1 when these worms are found on the board1 they get there by accident1 having dropped from the combs above4 ,they seem not to understand that the worm generally travels on safe principles2 that is1 he attaches a thread to whatever he travels over4 ,to be satisfied on this point1 ,i have many times carefully detached his foot-hold1 when on the side of the hive or other place1 where he would fall a few inches1 and always found him with a thread fast at the place he left1 to enable him to regain his position if he chose4 ,is it not probable1 then1 that whenever he leaves the combs for the bottom-board1 he can readily ascend again8 ,no doubt he often does1 to be driven down again by the bees4 ,now1 what ,i wish to get at by all this preamble1 is simply this3 that all our trouble and worrying to prevent the worms from again ascending to the combs--by wire hooks1 wire pins1 screws1 nails1 turned pins1 clam-shells1 blocks of wood1 c41 is perfect nonsense1 when half or more of them would not harm the bees any more if they did1 and might as well go there as any where else4 ,besides1 these useless fixins are very often a positive injury to the bees4 ,,objections ,,to ,,suspended ,,bottom-,,board4 ,suppose1 if you please1 that the worm has no thread attached above1 and your board is far enough from the bottom of the hive to prevent his reaching it4 ,of course1 he can't get up2 but how are your bees to do any better8 ,the worm can reach as high as they can4 ,the bee can fly up1 you think2 so it will1 sometimes2 but will try a dozen times first to get up without1 and when it does1 it is a very bad position to start from1 being a smooth board4 ,in hot weather it does better4 ,did you ever watch by a hive thus raised1 in ,april or ,may1 towards night1 when it was a little cool1 and see the industrious little insects arrive with a load as heavy as they could possibly carry1 all chilly1 and nearly out of breath1 scarcely able to reach home1 and there witness their vain attempts to get among their fellows above them8 ,if you never witnessed this1 ,i wish you would take some pains for it1 and when you find them giving up in despair1 when too chilly to fly1 and perishing after many fruitless attempts for life1 ,i think1 if you possess sympathy1 benevolence1 or even selfishness1 you will be induced to do as ,i did--discard at once wire hooks and all else from under the hive in the spring1 and give the bees1 when they do get home with a load1 under such circumstances1 what they richly deserve1 and that is1 protection4 ,,advantage ,,of ,,the ,,hive ,,close ,,to ,,the ,,board4 ,an inch hole in the side of the hive1 a few inches from the bottom1 as a passage for the bees1 is needed1 as ,i shall recommend letting the hive close to the board2 it is essential on account of robbing2 also1 it is necessary to confine as much as possible the animal heat1 in most hives1 during the season the bees are engaged in rearing young brood2 and warmth is necessary to hatch the eggs1 and develop the larvae2 we all know that when the hive is close1 less heat will pass off than if raised an inch4 ,,objection ,,answered4 ,you object to this1 and tell me1 the worms will get between the bottom of the hive and the board4 ,well1 ,i think they will1 and what then8 ,why ,i expect if you intend to succeed1 that you will get them out1 and crush their heads2 if you cannot give as much attention as this1 better not keep them1 or let some one have the care of them that will4 ,i am as willing to find a worm under the edge of the hive1 and dispatch it1 as to have it creep into some place out of sight1 and change to the moth4 ,i once trimmed off the bottom of my hives to a thin edge1 so they did not have this place for their cocoons1 but now prefer to have them square4 ,all profit is seldom obtained with anything4 ,if you plant a field with corn1 you do not expect that the whole work for the crop is finished4 ,neither should you expect when you set up a stock of bees1 that a full yield will be realized without something more4 ,if you are remunerated by keeping the weeds from your corn1 be assured it is equally profitable to weed out your bees4 ,,insufficiency ,,of ,,inclined ,,bottom-,,board4 ,now do not be deceived in this matter1 and through indolence be induced to get those hives with descending bottom-boards1 to throw out the worms as they fall1 and hope by that means to get rid of the trouble2 7,i have already1 in another chapter1 expressed doubts of this74 ,but we will now suppose such descending bottom-boards capable of throwing every worm that touches it heels over head to the ground2 what have we gained8 ,his neck is not broken1 nor any other bone of his body6 ,as if nothing extraordinary had happened1 he quietly gathers himself up1 and looks about for snug quarters2 he cares not a fig for the hive now2 he gormandized on the combs until satisfied1 before he left them1 and is glad to get away from the bees any how4 ,a place large enough for a cocoon is easily found1 and when he again becomes desirous of visiting the hives1 it is not to satisfy his own wants1 but to accommodate his progeny2 he is then furnished with wings ample to carry him to any height that you choose to put your bees4 ,a ,,moth ,,can ,,go ,,where ,,bees ,,can4 ,a hive that is proof against the moth1 is yet to be constructed4 ,we frequently hear of them1 but when they come to be tested1 somehow these worms get where the bees are4 ,when your hives become so full of bees1 that they cover the board in a cool morning1 the worms will be seldom found there1 except under the edge of the hive4 ,,trap ,,to ,,catch ,,worms4 ,you may now raise it1 but you may still catch the worms by laying under the bees a narrow shingle1 a stick of elder split in two lengthwise1 and the pith scraped out1 or anything else that will afford them protection from the bees1 and where they may spin their cocoons4 ,these should be removed every few days1 and the worms destroyed1 and the trap put back4 ,do not neglect it till they change to the moth1 and you have nothing but to remove the empty cocoon4 ,,box ,,for ,,wren4 ,if you would take the trouble to put up a cage or two for the wren to nest in1 he would be a valuable assistant in this department of your labor4 ,he would be on the lookout when you were away1 and many worms1 while looking up a hiding-place in some corner1 would be relieved from all further trouble by being deposited in his crop4 ,the cage for him need not be more than four inches square2 it may be fastened near as possible to the bees2 to a post1 tree1 or side of some building a few feet high4 ,i have seen the skull of some animal 7horse or ox7 used1 and is very convenient for them1 the cavity for the brains being used for the nest4 ,a person once told me the wren would not build in one that he had put up4 ,on examination1 the stake to support it was found driven into the only entrance4 ,i mention this to show how little some people understand what they do4 ,it is sometimes well enough to know why a thing is to be done1 as to know it must be done4 ,i could tell you to do a great many things1 but then you would like to know why1 then how to do it4 ,now if this prolixity is unnecessary for you1 another may need it4 ,you must remember ,i am endeavoring to teach some few to keep bees1 who are not over supplied with ingenuity4 ,,chapter ,,xi4 ,,putting ,,on ,,and ,,taking ,,off ,,boxes4 ,putting on boxes may be considered a duty intermediate between spring and summer management4 ,i cannot recommend putting them on as early as the last of ,april1 or first of ,may1 in ordinary circumstances4 ,it is possible to find a case that it would be best4 ,but before the hive is full of bees it is generally useless1 very likely a disadvantage1 by allowing a portion of animal heat to escape that is needed in the hive to mature the brood4 ,also1 moisture may accumulate until the inside moulds1 c4 ,some experience and judgment is necessary to know about what time boxes are needed4 ,that boxes are needed at the proper season1 ,i think ,i shall not need an argument to convince any one1 in the present day4 ,bee-keepers have generally discarded the barbarous practice of killing the bees to obtain the honey4 ,many of them have learned that a good swarm will store sufficient honey for winter1 besides several dollars worth as profit in boxes4 ,,advantage ,,of ,,the ,,patent ,,vender4 ,here is where the patent vender has taken the advantage of our ignorance1 by pretending that no other hive but his ever obtained such quantities1 or so pure in quality4 ,,time ,,of ,,putting ,,on--,,rule4 ,it is probable a great many readers will need the necessary observation to tell precisely when the hive is full of honey2 it may be full of bees1 and not of honey4 ,and yet the only rule that ,i can give to be generally applied1 is1 when the bees begin to be crowded out1 but a day or two before would be just the right time1 that is1 when they are obtaining honey--7for it should be remembered that they do not always get honey when beginning to cluster out74 ,this guide will do in place of a better one1 which close observation and experience only can give4 ,by observing a glass hive attentively1 in those cells that touch the glass on the edge of the combs1 whenever honey is being deposited here abundantly1 it is quite evident that the flowers are yielding it just then1 and other stocks are obtaining it also4 ,now is the time1 if any cluster out1 to put on the boxes4 ,when boxes are made as ,i have recommended1 that is1 the size containing #cfj solid inches1 it is advisable to put on only one at first2 when this is full either of bees or honey1 and yet bees are crowded outside1 the other can be added4 ,this is before swarming2 too much room might retard the swarming a few days1 but if crowded outside1 it indicates want of room1 and the boxes can make but little difference4 ,it is better to have one box well filled than two half full1 which might be the case if the bees were not numerous4 ,the object of putting on boxes before swarming1 is to employ a portion of the bees1 that otherwise would remain idly clustering outside two or three weeks1 as they often do1 while preparing the young queens for swarming4 ,but when all the bees can be profitably engaged in the body of the hive1 more room is unnecessary4 ,,making ,,holes ,,after ,,the ,,hive ,,is ,,full4 ,whenever it is required to put boxes on a hive that has no holes through the top1 it need not prevent your getting a few pounds of the purest honey that may be had1 just as well as to have a portion of the bees idle4 ,i always endeavor to ascertain in what direction the sheets of comb are made1 and then mark off the row of holes on the top1 at right angles with them4 ,,advantage ,,of ,,proper ,,arrangement4 ,two inches being nearly the right distance1 each one will be so made that a bee arriving at the top of the hive between any two sheets will be able to find a passage into the box1 without the task of a long search for it2 which ,i can imagine to be the case when only one hole for a passage is made1 or when the row of holes is parallel with the combs4 ,a hive might contain eight or ten sheets of comb1 and a bee desirous of entering the box might go up between any two1 many times1 before it found the passage4 ,it has been urged that every bee soon learns all passages and places about the hive1 and consequently will know the direct road to the box4 ,this may be true1 but when we recollect that all within the hive is perfect darkness--that this path must be found by the sense of feeling alone--that this sense must be its guide in all its future travels--that perhaps a thousand or two young workers are added every week1 and these have to learn by the same means--it would seem1 if we studied our own interest1 we would give them all the facility possible for entering the boxes4 ,what way so easy for them as to have a passage1 when they get to the top1 between each comb8 ,that bees do not know all roads about the hive1 can be partially proved by opening the door of a glass hive4 ,most of the bees about leaving1 instead of going to the bottom for their exit1 where they have departed many times1 seem to know nothing of the way1 but vainly try to get out through the glass1 whenever light is admitted4 ,i am so well convinced of this1 that ,i take some pains to accommodate them with a passage between each comb2 they will then at least lose no time by mistakes between the wrong combs1 crowding and elbowing their way back through a dense mass of bees which impede every step1 until again at the top perhaps between the same combs1 perhaps right1 perhaps farther off than at first2 when ,i suppose they try it again2 as boxes are filled sometimes under just such circumstances4 ,to assist them as much as possible1 when new hives are used for swarms1 ,i wait till the hive is nearly filled before making the holes to ascertain the direction of the combs4 ,we all know it is uncertain which way the combs will be built1 when the swarm is put in1 unless guide-combs are used4#ae ,when holes are made before the bees are put in1 guide-combs as directed for boxes should be put in2 7of course they should cross at right angles the row of holes74 #ae ,perhaps ,miner's cross-bar hive would do it4 ,,directions ,,for ,,boring ,,holes ,,in ,,full ,,stocks4 ,to make holes in the top after the combs are made1--,mark out the top as directed for making hives and boxes4 ,a centre bit or an auger bit with a lip or barb is best1 as that cuts down a little faster than the chip is taken out1 leaving it smooth2 when nearly through1 a pointed knife can cut the remainder of the chip loose1 and it can be taken out2 if it is between the combs1 it is well2 if directly over the centre of one1 it is a little better2 with the knife take out a piece as large as a walnut2 even if honey is in it1 no harm will be done4 ,the bees will then have a passage through from either side of the comb4 ,after you have opened one hole1 very likely the bees will want to see what is going on over head1 and walk out to reconnoitre4 ,to prevent their interference1 use some tobacco-smoke1 and send them down out of your way1 till your hole is finished4 ,now lay over this a small stone or block of wood1 and make the others in the same way4 ,when all are done1 blow in some smoke as you uncover them1 and put on your box4 ,this process is not half so formidable as it appears2 ,i have in this way bored hundreds4 ,you will remember my hives are not as high as many others keep them1 they are in about as convenient a position as ,i can get them4 ,this method saves me the trouble of sticking the guide-combs in my hives2 also1 the necessity of covering or stopping the holes4 ,dr4 ,bevan and some others have made a cross-bar hive1 instead of nailing on a top in the usual way2 a half-inch board of the right length is cut into strips1 some over an inch wide1 and half an inch apart1 across the top4 ,it is plain that in such a hive a bee can pass into the box whenever it arrives at the top1 without difficulty4 ,i will here repeat the objection to allowing too much room1 to pass into the boxes1 that you may see the disadvantages of the extremes of too little and too much room4 ,in these cross-bar hives1 the animal heat rises into the box from the main hive1 making it as warm as below2 the queen goes up with the bees1 and finding it warm and convenient for breeding1 deposits her eggs2 and young brood as well as honey is found there4 ,when we think it full1 it is then indispensable to return it1 if taken off1 till they hatch1 7otherwise they spoil it by moulding71 which makes the combs dark1 tough1 c4 ,another objection to such open tops is1 that open bottom boxes must be used1 which are not half as neat for market4 ,,to ,,be ,,taken ,,off ,,when ,,filled4 ,this advantage attends glass boxes3 while being filled1 the progress can be watched till finished1 when they should be taken off to preserve the purity of the combs4 ,every day the bees are allowed to run over them1 renders them darker4 ,consequently1 when our bees are a long time filling a box1 it is not as purely white as when filled expeditiously4 ,,time ,,taken ,,to ,,fill ,a ,,box4 ,two weeks is the shortest time ,i ever had any filled and finished4 ,this1 of course1 depends on the yield of honey1 and size of the swarm2 three or four weeks are usually taken for the purpose4 ,i have before said that the first yield of honey nearly fails in this section1 usually about the #bjth of ,july2 there are some variations1 later or earlier1 according to the season4 ,in other places it may be much later4 ,,when ,,to ,,take ,,off ,,boxes ,,part ,,full4 ,it can be ascertained by occasionally raising the cover to your glass boxes4 ,when no more is being added1 all boxes that are worth the trouble should be taken off2 if left longer the comb gets darker1 and such cells of honey as are not sealed over1 7and sometimes the majority are such17 the bees generally remove down into the hive4 ,,tobacco ,,smoke ,,preferred ,,to ,,slides4 ,when boxes are to be taken off1 if a slide of tin1 zinc1 c41 is used to close the holes1 some of the bees are apt to be crushed1 others will find themselves minus a head1 leg1 or abdomen1 and all of them be irritable for several days4 ,a little tobacco smoke is preferable1 as it keeps all quiet4 ,just raise the box to be taken off sufficient to puff under it some smoke1 and the bees will leave the vicinity of the holes in an instant2 the box can then be removed1 and another put on if necessary1 without exciting their anger in the least4 ,,manner ,,of ,,disposing ,,of ,,the ,,bees ,,in ,,the ,,boxes4 ,arouse the bees by striking the box lightly four or five times4 ,if all the cells are finished1 and honey is still obtained1 turn the box bottom up1 near the hive from which it was taken1 so that the bees can enter it without flying2 by this means you can save several young bees1 that have never left the hive and marked the location1 and a few others too weak to fly1 but will follow the others into the hive2 7such are lost when we are obliged to carry them at a distance47 ,boxes can be taken off either in the morning or evening2 if in the morning1 it may stand several hours when the sun is not too hot1 but on no account let it stand in the sun in the middle of the day1 as the combs will melt4 ,the bees will all leave1 sometimes in an hour2 at others they will not be out in three4 ,they may be taken off at evening and stand till morning1 in fair weather2 if not too cool1 they are generally all out2 but here is some risk of the moth finding it and depositing her eggs2 perhaps one in fifty may be thus found4 ,,bees ,,disposed ,,to ,,carry ,,away ,,honey4 ,when boxes are taken off at the end of the honey season1 a different method of getting rid of the bees must be adopted1 or we lose our honey4 ,unless the combs are all finished1 we lose some then any way1 as most of the bees fill themselves before leaving2 they carry it home and return for more immediately1 and take it all1 if not prevented4 ,it has been recommended to take it to some dark room with a small opening to let the bees out2 in the course of the day they will sometimes all leave2 but this method ,i have found unsafe1 as they sometimes find the way back4 ,when a large number of boxes are to be managed1 a more expeditious mode is1 to have a large box with close joints1 or an empty hogshead1 or a few barrels with one head out1 set in some convenient place2 put the boxes in1 one above another1 but not in a manner to stop the holes2 over the top throw a sheet of one thickness1 a thin one is best1 as it will let through more light4 ,the bees will leave the boxes1 creep to the top1 and get on the sheet2 take this off and turn it over a few times2 in this way all may be got rid of without the possibility of carrying off much honey4 ,all that know the way will return to the hive1 but a few young ones are lost4 ,,not ,,disposed ,,to ,,sting4 ,they seldom offer to sting during this part of the operation1 even when the box is taken off without tobacco smoke1 and carried away from the hive2 after a little time1 the bees finding themselves away from home1 lose all animosity4 ,as honey becomes scarce1 less brood is reared2 a great many cells that they occupied are soon empty2 also1 several cells that contained honey have been drained1 and used to mature the portion of brood just started at the time of the failure4 ,we can now understand1 or think we do1 why our best stocks that are very heavy1 that but a few days before were crowded for room and storing in boxes1 are now eager for honey to store in the hive2 as there is abundant room for several pounds4 ,they will quickly remove to the hive the contents of any box left exposed2 or even risk their lives by entering a neighboring hive for it2 after being allowed to make a beginning1 under such circumstances4 ,,rule4 ,during a yield of honey1 take off boxes as fast as they are filled1 and put on empty ones4 ,at the end of the season take all off4 ,not one stock in a hundred will starve that has worked in boxes1 that is1 when the hive is the proper size1 and full before adding the boxes1 unless robbed or other casualty4 ,,chapter ,,xii4 ,,securing ,,honey ,,from ,,the ,,moth4 ,,two ,,things ,,to ,,be ,,prevented4 ,when the boxes are free from the bees1 two things are to be prevented1 if we wish to save our honey till cold weather4 ,one is to keep out the worms1 the other to prevent souring4 ,the last may be new to many1 but some few of us have had it caused by dampness in warm weather4 ,the combs become covered with moisture1 a portion of the honey becomes thin like water1 and instead of the saccharine qualities we have the acid4 ,remedy3 keep perfectly dry and cool1 if you can1 but dry at any rate4 ,,apt ,,to ,,be ,,deceived ,,about ,,the ,,worms4 ,but the worms1 you can surely keep them out1 you think1 since you can seal up the boxes perfectly close1 preventing the moth or even the smallest ant from entering6 ,yes1 you may do this effectually1 but the worms will often be there somehow1 unless in a very low temperature1 such as a very cool cellar1 or in house1 and then you have dampness to guard against4 ,i have a little experience in this matter that spoils your theory entirely4 ,i have taken off glass jars1 and watched them till the bees were all out1 and was certain the moth did not come near them1 then immediately sealed them up2 absolutely preventing access afterwards1 7,i could do this with a jar more effectually than a box which is made of several pieces17 ,i then felt quite sure that ,i was ahead1 and should have no trouble with the worms1 as had often been the case before4 ,i was sadly mistaken4 ,,their ,,progress ,,described4 ,in a few days1 ,i could see at first a little white dust1 like flour1 on the side of the combs1 and on the bottom of the jar4 ,as the worms grew larger1 this dust was coarser4 ,by looking closely at the combs1 a small white thread-like line was first perceptible1 enlarging as the worm progressed4 ,when combs are filled with honey1 they go only on the surface1 eating nothing but the sealing of the cells2 seldom penetrating to the centre1 without an empty cell to give the chance4 ,disgusting as they seem to be1 they dislike being daubed with honey4 ,wax1 and not honey1 is their food4 ,the reader would like to know how these worms came in the jars1 when1 to all appearance1 it was a physical impossibility4 ,i would like to tell positively1 but cannot4 ,but ,i will guess1 if you will allow it4 ,i will first premise1 that ,i do not suppose they are generated spontaneously6 ,their being found there1 then1 would indicate some agent or means not readily perceived4 ,a ,,solution ,,offered4 ,the hypothesis that ,i offer is original and new1 and therefore open for criticism2 if there is a better way to account for the mystery1 ,i would be glad to know it4 ,from the first of ,june till late in the fall1 the moth may be found around our hives1 active at night1 but still in the day4 ,the only object probably is to find a suitable place to deposit its eggs1 that the young may have food2 if no proper and convenient place is found1 why1 ,i suppose it will take up with such as it can find2 their eggs must be deposited somewhere1 it may be in the cracks in the hive1 in the dust at the bottom1 or outside1 as near the entrance as they dare approach4 ,the bees running over them may get one or more of these eggs attached to their feet or bodies1 and carry it among the combs1 where it may be left to hatch4 ,it is not at all probable that the moth ever passed through the hive among the bees1 to deposit her eggs in the jars before mentioned4 ,had these jars been left on the hive1 not a worm would have ever defaced a comb2 because1 when the bees are numerous1 each worm as soon as it commences its work of destruction will be removed1 that is1 when it works on the surface1 as in the boxes of honey--in breeding combs1 they get in the centre and are more difficult to remove4 ,by taking off these jars and removing the bees1 it gave all the eggs that happened to be there a fair chance4 ,many writers finding the combs undisturbed when left on the hive till cold weather1 recommend that as the only safe way1 preferring to have the combs a little darker1 than the risk of being destroyed by the worms4 ,but ,i object to dark combs1 and leaving the boxes will effectually prevent empty ones taking their places1 which are necessary to get all the profits4 ,i will offer a few more remarks in favor of my theory1 and then give my remedy for the worms4 ,i have found in all hives where the bees have been removed in warm weather1 say between the middle of ,june and ,september1 7and it has been a great many17 moth eggs enough among the combs to destroy them in a very short time1 unless kept in a very cool place2 this result has been uniform4 ,any person doubting this1 may remove the bees from a hive that is full of combs in ,july or ,august2 and close it to prevent the possibility of a moth entering1 set it away in a temperature ranging from sixty to ninety1 and if there are not worms enough to satisfy him that this is correct1 he will have better success than ,i ever did4 ,yet1 no such result will follow1 when the bees are left among the combs1 unless the swarm be very small2 then the injury done will be in proportion4 ,a strong stock may have as many moth eggs among the combs as a weak one1 yet one will be scarcely injured1 while the other may be nearly or quite destroyed4 ,now1 if this theory be correct1 and the bees do actually carry these eggs among the combs1 is there not a great deal of lost labor in trying to construct a moth-proof hive8 ,the moth1 or rather the worms1 are ever present to devour the combs1 whenever the bees have left them in this season4 ,,method ,,of ,,killing ,,worms ,,in ,,boxes4 ,now1 whether you are satisfied or not with the foregoing1 we will proceed with the remedy4 ,perhaps you may find one box in ten that will have no worms about it1 others may contain from one to twenty when they have been off a week or more4 ,all the eggs should have a chance to hatch1 which in cool weather may be three weeks4 ,they should be watched1 that no worms get large enough to injure the combs much1 before they are destroyed4 ,get a close barrel or box that will exclude the air as much as possible2 in this put the boxes1 with the holes or bottom open4 ,in one corner leave a place for a cup or dish of some kind1 to hold some sulphur matches while burning4 7,they are made by dipping paper or rags in melted sulphur47 ,when all is ready1 ignite the matches1 and cover close for several hours4 ,a little care is required to have it just right3 if too little is used1 the worms are not killed2 if too much1 it gives the combs a green color4 ,a little experience will soon enable you to judge4 ,if the worms are not killed on the first trial1 another dose must be administered4 ,much less sulphur will adhere to paper or rags1 if it is very hot1 when dipped1 than when just above the temperature necessary to melt it2 this should be considered1 as well as the number of boxes to be smoked1 size of the vessel used in smoking them1 c4 ,whether this gas from burning sulphur will destroy the eggs of the moth before the worm appears1 ,i have not tested sufficiently to decide2 but ,i do know that it is an effectual quietus for the larvae6 ,,freezing ,,destroys ,,them4 ,boxes taken off at the end of warm weather1 and exposed in a freezing situation through the winter1 appear to have all the worms as well as eggs for them destroyed by the cold2 consequently1 all boxes so exposed1 may be kept any length of time2 the only care being necessary1 to shut out the moth effectually4 ,but don't forget to look out for all combs from which the bees have been removed in warm weather4 ,i prefer taking off all boxes at the end of the first yield of honey1 even when ,i expect to put them on again for buckwheat honey4 ,the bees at this season collect a great abundance of propolis1 which they spread over the inside of the boxes as well as hive2 in some instances it is spread on the glass so thick as to prevent the quality of honey being seen4 ,there is no necessity for boxes on a hive at any season when there is no yield of honey to fill them4 ,sometimes even in a yield of buckwheat honey1 a stock may contain too few bees to fill boxes1 but just a few may go into them and put on the propolis2 this should not be allowed1 as it makes it look bad when used another year4 ,at this season1 7,august7 some old stocks may be full of combs1 and but few bees1 but swarms when they have got the hive full in time1 are very sure to have bees enough to go into the boxes to work4 ,i have known them to do so in three weeks after being hived4 ,,objection ,,to ,,using ,,boxes ,,before ,,the ,,hive ,,is ,,full4 ,some put on boxes at the time of hiving the bees4 ,in such cases the box is often filled first1 and nearly as often will contain brood4 ,i consider it no advantage1 and often a damage to do so2 as ,i want the hive full any way--and then if they have time let them into boxes1 although it may be buckwheat1 instead of clover honey that we get4 ,,chapter ,,xiii4 ,,swarming4 ,,time ,,to ,,expect ,,them4 ,the season for regular swarms in this section1 ,i have known to commence the #aeth of ,may1 and in some seasons the #ast of ,july4 ,the end is about the #aeth of the latter month1 with some exceptions4 ,i have had one as late as the #bast2 also a few buckwheat swarms between the #abth and #beth of ,august4 ,the subject now before us is one of thrilling interest4 ,to the apiarian the prospect of an increase of stocks is sufficient to create some interest1 even when the phenomenon of swarming would fail to awaken it4 ,but to the naturalist this season has charms that the indifferent beholder can never realize4 ,,all ,,bee-,,keepers ,,should ,,understand ,,it ,,as ,,it ,,is4 ,as a guide in many cases1 it is important that the practical apiarian should understand this matter as it is1 and not as said to be by many authors4 ,i shall be under the necessity of differing from nearly all in many points4 ,,means ,,of ,,understanding ,,it4 ,this is another case of when doctors disagree1 who shall decide8 ,you1 reader1 are just the person4 ,there is no need of a doctor at all in this matter4 ,i will endeavor to give a test for most of my assertions4 ,to make this subject as plain as possible in this place1 ,i may repeat some things said before4 ,the facts related have come under my own observation4 ,i have probably taken more pains than most bee-keepers1 to understand this matter to the bottom from the beginning1 7,i mean the bottom of the cells74 ,but few apiarians have made the number of examinations that ,i have to get at the modus operandi of swarming4 ,perhaps ,i ought not to expect full credit for veracity1 when ,i assure the reader that ,i have inverted more than one hundred stocks to get a peep at the royal cells1 some of them near a dozen times in one summer4 ,i have inverted them frequently for the purpose of obtaining cells4 ,but generally to see when such cells are being made1 when they contain eggs1 when these eggs are sufficiently matured for swarming1 or abandoned and destroyed1 c4 ,by these signs ,i predict with certainty 7almost7 when to expect swarms1 and when to cease looking for them4 ,,inverting ,a ,,stock ,,rather ,,formidable ,,at ,,first4 ,to a person that has never inverted a hive full of bees1 even to overflowing1 or never has seen it done1 it appears like a great undertaking1 as well as the probability of ruining the stock6 ,but after the first trial1 the magnitude of the performance is greatly diminished1 and will grow less with every repetition of the feat1 until there is not the least dread attending it4 ,without tobacco smoke ,i hardly think it practicable1 but with it1 there is not the least difficulty4 ,it would be very unsatisfactory to turn over a hive and nothing to drive the bees away from the very places on the combs that you wish particularly to inspect4 ,the smoke is just the thing to do it6 ,as for the bad effects of such overturning and smoking1 ,i never discovered any4 ,,requisites ,,before ,,preparation ,,of ,,queen',s ,,cells4 ,i have found the process for all regular swarms something like this3 before they commence1 two or three things are requisite4 ,the combs must be crowded with bees2 they must contain a numerous brood advancing from the egg to maturity2 the bees must be obtaining honey either by being fed or from flowers4 ,being crowded with bees in a scarce time of honey is insufficient to bring out the swarm1 neither is an abundance sufficient1 without the bees and the brood4 ,the period that all these requisites happen together1 and remain long enough1 will vary with different stocks1 and many times do not happen at all through the season1 with some4 ,these causes then appear to produce a few queen-cells1 generally begun before the hive is filled1 7sometimes when only half full1 but usually remain as rudiments till the next year1 when the foregoing conditions of the stock may require their use74 ,,state ,,of ,,queen',s ,,cell ,,when ,,used4 ,they are about half finished1 when they receive the eggs2 as these eggs hatch into larvae1 others are begun1 and receive eggs at different periods for several days later4 ,the number of such cells seem to be governed by the prosperity of the bees3 when the family is numerous1 and the yield of honey abundant1 they may amount to twenty1 at other times perhaps not more than two or three2 although several such cells may remain empty4 ,i have already said that a failure1 7or even a partial one71 in the yield of honey at any time from the depositing of royal eggs till the sealing of the cells1 7which is about ten days71 would be likely to bring about their destruction4 ,even after being sealed1 ,i have found a few instances where they were destroyed4 ,,state ,,when ,,swarms ,,issue4 ,but when there is nothing precarious about the honey1 the sealing of these cells is the time to expect the first swarm1 which will generally issue the first fair day after one or more are finished4 ,i never missed a prediction for a swarm #dh hours1 when ,i have judged from these signs1 in a prosperous season4 ,when there is a partial failure of honey1 the swarm sometimes will wait several days after finishing them4 ,,clustering ,,outside ,,not ,,always ,,to ,,be ,,depended ,,upon4 ,the clustering out of the bees ,i find but a poor criterion to judge from1 further than full hives do swarm--many such do not4 ,,examinations--,,the ,,result4 ,i will detail a few circumstances1 that have led to these conclusions4 ,some years ago the honey began to fail1 when only about one third of my good stocks had cast swarms2 and all at once1 the issues began to be few and far between4 ,i had previously examined1 and found they had gone into preparations pretty extensively2 by having not only constructed cells1 but occupied them with royal eggs and larvae4 ,now ,i examined again1 and found five out of six had destroyed them1 7at the same time the bees clustered out extensively74 ,this put an end to all hopes of swarms here4 ,some few had finished their cells1 and these1 ,i had some hopes1 would send out the swarms2 but the dry weather caused some misgivings4 ,after waiting three or four days and none coming1 ,i found these sealed cells destroyed also1 and had no more swarms that season4 ,subsequent observations have fully confirmed these things4 ,one season some of the hives commenced preparations at two different periods1 and then abandoned them without swarming at all1 through the summer4 ,the first time it was the last of ,may1 the next in ,july4 ,,remarks4 ,the failure of honey was the cause1 without any doubt4 ,and who shall say1 these bees were not wise in their conduct8 ,what prudent man would emigrate with a family1 if the prospect of a famine was plainly indicated1 when1 by remaining at home1 there was enough1 at least for the present8 ,who can help but admire this wise and beautiful arrangement8 ,the combs must contain brood2 the bees must find honey during the rearing of the queens4 ,if a swarm were to issue the moment of obtaining honey1 the consequence might be fatal1 as there would not be a numerous brood to hatch out1 and replenish the old stock with bees sufficient to keep out the worms4 ,were they to issue at any time1 as soon as the bees had increased enough in numbers to spare a swarm1 without regard to the yield of honey1 they might starve4 ,,conflicting ,,theories4 ,i find many theories conflicting with these views1 which appear to call for some remarks4 ,it is generally supposed that a young queen must be matured to issue with the swarms1 and the old one with the old bees are permanent residents of the old hive4 ,,both ,,old ,,and ,,young ,,leave ,,with ,,swarms4 ,it is probable that no rule governs the issue of workers4 ,old and young come out promiscuously4 ,that old bees come out may be known sometimes1 by so many leaving1 that not a quarter as many will be left1 as commenced work in the spring4 ,that young bees leave1 any one may be satisfied on seeing a swarm issue2 a great many too young and weak to fly will drop down in front of the hive1 having come out now for the first time1 and perhaps some of them had not been out of the cell an hour2 these very young bees are known by the color4 ,,cause ,,of ,,the ,,queen',s ,,inability ,,to ,,fly ,,suggested4 ,the old queen often gets down in the same way2 but ,i would assign another cause for her inability to fly2 that is1 ,i would suggest it to be her burden of eggs4 ,,evidence ,,of ,,the ,,old ,,queen',s ,,leaving4 ,that the old queen does leave with the first swarm is indicated by several things3 one is1 eggs may often be found on the board the next morning2 another1 when the first swarm has left1 and before any of these royal cells hatch1 the bees may be driven out and no queen will be found1 or you may drive out the bees at the end of three weeks1 and the brood of workers will be about all hatched1 the drone brood not quite as near4 ,the combs may also contain some eggs1 and perhaps some very young larvae1 that have been deposited by the young queen1 which begins to lay usually sixteen or eighteen days after the first swarm4 ,this shows a cessation of laying eggs for about two weeks4 ,first swarms will have eggs in the cells as soon as they are made to hold them1 which is often within #bd hours after being hived2 occasionally a new piece of comb will fall down1 and1 if the cells are deep enough1 they are almost certain to contain eggs4 ,i could add other proof1 but the attentive observer will discover it himself4 ,,mr4 ,,weeks' ,,theory ,,not ,,satisfactory4 ,mr4 ,j4 ,m4 ,weeks1 in his work on bees1 says1 ,two causes and two only can be assigned why bees ever swarm3 the first1 the crowded state of the hive2 the second1 to avoid the battle of the queens4 ,the first cause producing first swarms1 the other second1 third1 c4 ,mr4 ,colton's patent hive1 it is said1 can be made to swarm at any time within two days1 merely for want of room4 ,by removing the six boxes attached to it1 the bees are compelled to crowd into the main body of the hive1 and swarm out in consequence4 ,now1 if merely crowding the hive with bees is the only cause of first swarms1 how is it that half or more of mine refused to swarm1 when a great many1 for want of room1 were crowded outside for weeks1 and great numbers maturing every day to crowd them still more8 ,to me the reason is plain1 that some of the before-mentioned requisites were wanting4 ,mr4 ,weeks further says1 when the first swarm has left1 not a single queen1 in any stage of minority1 is left in the old hive2 the bees1 destitute of a queen1 set about constructing several royal cells1 take larvae or eggs and put in them1 and feed with royal jelly1 and in a few days have a queen4 ,although ,i had not had much experience at the time of getting his work1 ,i had some doubts1 because ,i found that all hives that became full and began to run over1 did not swarm1 and some others swarmed before being quite full2 it seemed as if something like a preparation beforehand was requisite4 ,i knew of no means1 for a long time1 that would decide positively2 when it occurred to me1 if ,i examined the old stock immediately after the first swarm had left1 ,i should find some preparations if there were any2 a thing so simple and easy that ,i felt somewhat mortified not to have thought of it before4 ,the first stock ,i looked at revealed the secret4 ,i examined it the evening of the day that a swarm had left2 ,i was gratified by finding two finished cells on the lower edges of the combs2 other cells were in different stages of progression1 from those containing an egg to the full developed larva4 ,several more hives showed the same result4 ,i now got bold enough to examine some previous to swarming1 as ,i have already explained4 ,,mr4 ,,miner ,,not ,,correct4 ,mr4 ,t4 ,b4 ,miner1 in his work1 has allowed the preparation of queen cells previous to swarming1 but he has put off the time of the swarm issuing eight or nine days too long4 ,that is1 he has the young queen matured so that she commences piping first1 which does not occur more than one time in fifty4 ,now ,i think it more than probable that many readers will have some doubts in regard to my statements about this swarming matter4 ,yet ,i think ,i can give directions sufficiently particular that they may remove them themselves4 ,they should bear in mind that they have no right to be positive on any subject without an investigation4 ,,particular ,,directions ,,for ,,testing ,,the ,,matter4 ,i will now give more minute directions for an examination4 ,full hives require a little more care than those containing fewer bees4 ,don't let the crowded state of the hive1 even if some are outside1 deter you from gratifying a laudable curiosity1 7such hives are most likely to possess these cells47 ,let the satisfaction of ascertaining a few facts for yourselves stimulate you to this exertion1 the risk is not much2 what ,i have done you may do4 ,this is better than to rely on any man's ipse dixit4 ,i do it without any protection whatever for face or hands2 but1 if you have too much fear of stings1 a veil to protect the face may be put on1 but do without it1 if you can find the courage1 as you will want a good view4 ,the best time is1 when most of the bees are out at work near the middle of the day2 but then the bees from the other hives are sometimes cross1 and interfere4 ,on that account ,i prefer morning or evening1 although there are more bees to be smoked out of the way4 ,if you are accustomed to smoking tobacco1 you will find a pipe just the thing for making a smoke here2 if not1 vide a description of an apparatus in chap4 #ahth1 p4 #bha4 ,when you are ready to proceed1 some smoke must be blown under the hive before you touch it2 then raise the front side a few inches1 and blow in some more2 now carefully lift the hive from the stand1 avoiding any jar1 as this would arouse their anger2 turn it bottom upwards2 also1 be careful all the time not to breathe among them4 ,more smoke will now make them crowd among the combs out of your way while you examine4 ,it is very common for the bees to set up a buzzing1 and rush up the sides of the hive1 but a little smoke will drive them back2 get them out of the way as much as possible1 and look on the edges of the combs for the queens' cells1 where most of them are4 ,if the hive is fully supplied with honey1 they will be near the bottom1 if not1 farther up among the combs2 in some hives they cannot be seen even where they exist4 ,yet they may be found in four out of five1 by a thorough search4 ,i have found nine within two inches of the bottom1 some on the extreme ends of the comb4 ,i would here give a caution about turning over hives with very new combs1 before they are attached to the sides of the hive1 as they are apt to bend over4 ,,empty ,,hives ,,to ,,be ,,ready4 ,we will now suppose that some of your stocks are ready to cast their swarms3 we will also presume that your empty hives for the reception of swarms are ready before this period2 to prepare a hive after the swarm has issued is bad management2 negligence here argues negligence elsewhere2 it is one of the premonitions of bad luck4 ,,bottom-,,boards ,,for ,,hiving4 ,you will want also a number of bottom-boards1 expressly for hiving2 get a board a little larger than the bottom of the hive1 nail strips across the ends on the under side to prevent warping2 in the middle cut out a space five or six inches square1 and cover with wire cloth4 ,these are for your large swarms in very hot weather1 to be used for four or five days4 ,they are much safer than to raise the hive an inch or more for ventilation4 ,they are also essential for many other occasions4 ,i would not do without them1 even if the expense was ten times what it is4 ,,description ,,of ,,swarm ,,issuing4 ,when the day is fair and not too much wind1 first swarms generally issue from ten o'clock till three2 if you are on the lookout1 the first outside indication of a swarm1 will be an unusual number of bees around the entrance1 from one to sixty minutes before they start4 ,the utmost confusion seems to prevail1 bees running about in every direction2 the entrance apparently closed with the mass of bees1 7perhaps one exception in twenty17 presently a column from the interior forces a passage to the open air2 they come rushing out by hundreds1 all vibrating their wings as they march out2 and when a few inches from the entrance1 rise in the air2 some run up the side of the hive1 others to the edge of the bottom-board4 ,if you have seen the old queen come rushing out the first one1 and the rest following her1 as we are often told she does1 you have seen what ,i never did in a first swarm6 ,second and third swarms conduct themselves quite differently4 ,i have seen the old queen issue a few times1 but not till half the swarm was out4 ,the bees when first rising from the hive1 describe circles of but few feet1 but as they recede1 they spread over an area of several rods4 ,their movement are much slower than usual1 in a few minutes thousands may be seen revolving in every possible direction6 ,a swarm may be seen and heard1 at a distance1 where fifty hives1 ordinarily at work1 would not be noticed6 ,when about out of the hive1 or soon after1 some branch of a tree or bush is usually selected on which to cluster4 ,in less than half a minute after the spot is indicated1 even when the bees are spread over an acre1 they are gathered in the immediate vicinity1 and all cluster in a body from five to ten minutes after leaving the hive4 ,they should now be hived immediately1 as they show impatience if left long1 especially in the sun2 also1 if another stock should send out a swarm while they were hanging there1 they would be quite sure to mix together4 ,,manner ,,of ,,hiving ,,can ,,be ,,varied4 ,it makes but little difference what way they are put in the hive1 providing they are all made to go in4 ,proceed as is most convenient2 an old table or bench is very good to keep them out of the grass if there should happen to be any2 if there is not much in the way1 lay your bottom-board on the ground1 make it level1 set your hive on it1 and raise one edge an inch or more to give the bees a chance to enter4 ,,usual ,,method4 ,cut off the branch with the bees1 if it can be done as well as not1 and shake it in front of the hive1 a portion will discover it1 and will at once commence a vibration of their wings2 this1 ,i suppose1 is a call for the others4 ,a knowledge of a new home being found seems to be communicated in this way1 as it is kept up until all are in4 ,a great many are apt to stop about the entrance1 thereby nearly or quite closing it1 and preventing others going in1 when they will gather on the outside4 ,you can expedite the matter with a stick or quill1 by gently pushing them away2 and another portion will enter4 ,when gentle means will not induce them to go in1 in a reasonable time1 and they appear obstinate1 a little water sprinkled on them will facilitate operations greatly1 when nothing else will4 7,be careful and not over-do the matter1 by using too much water1 they can be so wet as not to move at all47 ,when they cluster on a branch that you do not wish to cut off1 place your bottom-board as near as convenient2 on it lay two sticks about an inch in diameter1 of the same length3 try the hive1 and see that all is right2 then turn it bottom up1 directly under the main part of the cluster2 if you have an assistant1 let him jar the branch sufficiently to detach the bees2 most of them will fall directly into the hive4 ,if no assistant is at hand it is unnecessary to wait1 7,i have done it a hundred times without help72 with the bottom of the hive strike the under side of the branch hard enough to dislodge them1 then turn it on the board2 the sticks will prevent the bottom crushing many bees4 ,,when ,,out ,,of ,,reach4 ,i have gone up a ladder fifteen feet1 got the bees in the hive in this way1 and backed down without difficulty4 ,after putting the hive in its place1 sometimes a part will go back2 in that case1 a small branch full of leaves should be held directly under and close to them1 and as many jarred on it as possible4 ,hold this still1 and shake the other to prevent their clustering there2 you will soon have them all collected1 ready to bring down1 and put by the hive4 ,a handle basket or large tin pan may be taken up the ladder instead of the hive1 when they can be readily emptied before it4 ,but very few will fly out in coming down4 ,if you succeed in getting nearly all the bees in the first effort1 and but few are left1 merely shaking the branch will be sufficient to prevent their holding fast1 and will turn their attention to those below1 where those which have already found a hive will be doing their best to call them4 ,when the hive is first turned over1 most of the bees fall on the board and rush out1 but as soon as it is realized that a home is found1 a buzzing commences inside2 this quickly communicates the fact to those outside1 which immediately turn about1 facing the hive and hum in concert1 while marching in4 ,another plan may be adopted1 even if fifteen feet high2 when the branch is not too large1 and there is not too much in the way below it4 ,have ready two or three light poles of suitable length2 select such as have a branch at the upper end1 large enough to hold a two-bushel basket4 ,this is raised directly under the swarm2 with another pole1 the bees are all dislodged1 and fall into the basket1 and are quickly let down4 ,now1 if you have got about all1 throw a sheet over for a few moments1 to prevent their escape4 ,they soon become quiet1 and may be hived without many going back to the branch1 as they do1 when attempting to hive them immediately4 ,i often have them begin to cluster near the ground1 very conveniently for hiving4 ,in such a case1 ,i do not wait for all to collect1 but as soon as such place is indicated1 ,i get the board and hive ready4 ,when a quart or so are gathered1 shake them in a hive1 and set it up2 the swarm will now go to that1 instead of the branch1 especially if the latter is shaken a little4 ,where many stocks are kept1 it is advisable to be as expeditious as possible4 ,a swarm will thus hive itself much sooner than when it is allowed to cluster4 ,,when ,,they ,,cannot ,,be ,,shaken ,,off4 ,swarms will sometimes get in places where it is impossible to jar them off1 or cut off a branch1 such as the trunk of a tree1 or a large limb near it4 ,in which case place the hive near1 as first directed2 take a large tin dipper1 a vessel most convenient for the purpose1 and dip it full of bees2 with one hand turn back the hive2 with the other throw the bees into it2 some of them will discover that a home is provided1 and set up the call for the rest1 7by the vibration of their wings71 and the remainder may be emptied in front of the hive as you dip them off4 ,i have known a few instances when the first dipper full all ran out1 and joined the others without making the discovery that they were in a hive1 but this is seldom the case4 ,when you get the queen in1 there is no trouble with the remainder1 even if there are many left2 as soon as they ascertain that the queen is no longer among them1 it may be known by their uneasy movements1 and they will soon leave1 and join those in the hive2 but if the queen is yet on the tree1 and but a dozen with her1 they will leave the hive and cluster again4 ,,all ,,should ,,be ,,made ,,to ,,enter4 ,in all cases be sure to get them all to enter2 a cluster outside of it may contain the queen1 unconscious of a home so near2 and the probable consequence might be1 she would leave for a miserable one in the woods4 ,,should ,,be ,,taken ,,to ,,the ,,stand ,,immediately4 ,when all are in1 except a few that will be flying1 let the hive down close to the board2 take hold of this and carry it at once to the stand they are to occupy1 and raise the front edge half an inch2 let the back rest on the board2 this will give them means to re-ascend1 if they chance to drop1 which large swarms often do in hot weather4 ,if the bottom is an inch or more from the board when the bees fall1 there is nothing to prevent their rushing out on every side--their means of getting up again are bad--if the queen comes out with the rush1 there are some chances for their leaving4 ,,protection ,,from ,,the ,,sun ,,necessary4 ,another thing is very important2 swarms should be protected from the sun for several days1 in hot weather1 from nine o'clock till three or four2 and then if the heat is very oppressive1 and the bees cluster outside1 sprinkle them with water and drive them in2 and by wetting the hive occasionally1 it will carry off a large portion of the heat1 and make it much more comfortable4 ,,clustering ,,bushes4 ,if there are no large trees in the vicinity of your apiary1 all the better1 as there will then be no danger of your swarms lighting on them2 but all bee-keepers are not so fortunate1 myself being one of the number4 ,in such a place it is necessary to provide something for them to cluster on2 get some bushes six or eight feet high 7hemlock is preferable72 cut off the ends of the branches1 except a few near the top3 secure the whole with strings to prevent swaying in ordinary winds2 make a hole in the earth deep enough to hold them1 and large enough to be lifted out easily4 ,the bees will be likely to cluster on some of these2 they can then be raised out1 and the bees hived without difficulty4 ,a bunch of dry mullein tops tied together on the end of a pole1 makes a very good place for clustering2 it so nearly resembles a swarm that the bees themselves appear to be sometimes deceived4 ,i have frequently known them leave a branch where they had begun to cluster1 and settle on this when held near4 ,the motives for immediately removing the swarm to the stand are1 that they are generally more convenient to watch in case they are disposed to leave2 also many bees can be saved4 ,all that leave the hive1 mark the location the same as in spring2 several hundreds will probably leave the first day2 a few may leave several times2 when removed at night1 such will return to the stand of the previous day1 and generally are lost2 whereas1 if they are carried at once to a permanent stand1 this loss is avoided4 ,those that are left flying at the time1 return to the old stock1 which those that return from the swarm the next day will not always do4 ,the time for moving them now is no more than at another4 ,it is unnecessary to object1 and say1 that it will take too long to wait for the bees to get in2 this will not do4 ,i shall insist on your getting all the bees to enter before leaving any way4 ,i consider this an essential feature in the management4 ,i will not say that my directions will always prevent their going to the woods1 but this ,i do say1 that out of the hundreds that ,i have hived1 not one has ever left4 ,it is possible proper management has had no influence in my success1 yet something like an opinion of this kind has been indulged for a long time4 ,,how ,,swarms ,,are ,,generally ,,managed ,,that ,,leave ,,for ,,the ,,woods4 ,some of my neighboring bee-keepers lose a quarter or half of their swarms by flight1 and how do they manage8 ,when the word is given out1 ,bees swarming1 a tin-horn1 tin-pan1 bells1 or anything to make a horrible din1 is seized upon in the hurry of the moment1 and as much noise made as possible1 to make them cluster2 7which they naturally would do without the music1 at least all mine have4 ,this probably gave rise to the opinion of one old lady1 who knew drumming on a pan did good1 for she had tried it47 ,very often a hive is to be constructed1 or an old one unfit to use any way1 needs some sticks across1 or something to take time4 ,when the hive is obtained1 it must be washed with something nice to make the bees like it2 a little honey must be daubed on the inside2 sugar and water1 molasses and water1 salt and water1 or salt and water rubbed on with hickory leaves1 is the best thing in the world2 several other things are just as good1 and some are better4 ,even whisky1 that bane of man1 has been offered them as a bribe to stay1 and sometimes they are persuaded and go to work4 ,,nothing ,,but ,,bees ,,needed ,,in ,a ,,hive4 ,now ,i cannot say positively that these things do harm1 yet ,i am quite sure they do no good1 as nothing but bees is needed in a hive4 ,is it reasonable to suppose they are fond of all the knick-knacks given them8 ,i have never used any1 and could not possibly have done better4 ,i am careful to have the hive sweet and clean1 and not too smooth inside2 an old hive that has been used before is scalded and scraped4 ,but to the manner they get the bees in1 after the hive is ready4 ,a table is set out1 and a cloth spread on it2 sticks are put on to raise the hive an inch or more3 if they succeed in getting the swarm even on the outside of the hive it is left2 if they go in1 it is well2 if they go off1 why hope for better luck next time4 ,the hive is left unsheltered in the hot sun and when there is no wind1 the heat is soon insupportable1 or at least very oppressive2 the bees hang in loose strings1 instead of a compact body1 as when kept cool2 they are very apt to fall1 and when they do1 will rush out from every side3 if the queen chances to drop with them1 they may step out4 ,two thirds of all the bees that go to the woods are managed in this1 or a similar manner1 and may it not be said1 they are fairly driven off8 ,,seldom ,,go ,,off ,,without ,,clustering4 ,perhaps one swarm in three hundred will depart for the woods without first clustering4 ,i have had three times that number1 not one of which has ever left me thus4 ,yet ,i have evidence not to be disputed that some will do it4 ,three instances have occurred near me that satisfied me of the fact4 ,two were lost1 the other was followed to a tree1 half a mile off2 ,i assisted in cutting the tree1 and hiving them4 ,the cavity where they entered was very small1 and contained old comb1 made by a swarm a year or two previous1 which had probably starved1 as there was too little room for storing sufficient honey for winter4 ,this swarm1 when hived and carried home1 remained perfectly contented4 ,,do ,,swarms ,,choose ,a ,,location ,,before ,,swarming8 ,the inquiry is often made1 ,do all swarms have a place looked out before leaving the parent stock8 ,the answer to this must ever be guess-work4 ,i could offer some circumstances indicating the affirmative very strongly1 and as much for the negative2 and will let it pass at that4 ,yet ,i think if bees are properly cared for1 that ninety-nine swarms in a hundred will prefer a good clean hive to a rotten tree in the woods4 ,,means ,,of ,,arresting ,a ,,swarm4 ,i have had three swarms that were exceptions to general rules1 giving me some trouble by swarming out after being hived2 the third and fourth time they left1 ,i threw water among them1 causing quite a shower2 when my pail-full was out1 ,i used earth2 they went but a short distance1 and clustered in the usual way4 ,now were these bees intending to leave1 and had their designs frustrated by the water and earth8 ,i am not quite as sure as the old lady1 who knew that drumming on a tin-pan did good1 but ,i am inclined to think it had some effect4 ,i have heard of several instances where swarms were apparently stopped1 by having earth thrown among them1 while passing over a field where men were at work4 ,we know they dislike being wet1 as we see them hastening home on the approach of a shower2 or we can at any time drive them in the hive by sprinkling them with water4 ,throwing water in the swarm is a kind of imitation shower1 and earth is something like it4 ,whether useful or not1 these swarms leaving the hive was rather suspicious1 and ,i should try it again under similar circumstances4 ,,some ,,compulsion4 ,after getting them in the hive for the fourth time1 ,i resolved not to be baffled or have much more such trouble1 and perhaps go to the woods at last1 thereby setting a bad example4 ,i put under the hive the wire-cloth bottom-board1 opened two or three holes on the top1 and covered these also with wire-cloth1 7this was to let the air circulate72 a quantity of honey and water was given them and they were then carried to the cellar1 and kept prisoners four days1 except half an hour before sunset2 when too late to leave for a journey1 ,i set them out to provide a few necessaries1 and then returned them to the cellar4 ,in four days1 when honey enough is given them1 a good swarm will half fill an ordinary hive with combs4 ,some of the first eggs deposited will be about hatching into larvae1 all of which would seem like too much to leave4 ,i now set them out1 and gave them liberty2 shading the hive1 c41 as before directed4 ,they all proved faithful and industrious1 prospering like others4 ,if their design was for a distant location1 they put a good face on the matter in the end4 ,,how ,,far ,,will ,,they ,,go ,,in ,,search ,,of ,a ,,home8 ,how far they will travel in search of a home1 is also uncertain4 ,i have heard of their going seven miles1 but could not learn how the fact was proved4 ,i have no experience of my own in this matter1 but will relate a circumstance that happened near me a few years since4 ,a neighbor was ploughing1 when a swarm passed over him2 being near the earth1 he pelted them heartily with the loose dirt he had ploughed up1 which seemed to bring them up1 or rather down1 as they clustered on a very low bush2 they were hived1 and gave no further trouble4 ,a man living some three miles from this neighbor1 on that day hived a swarm about eleven o'clock1 and left them to warm up in the sun as described a page or two back2 about three o'clock their stock of patience was probably exhausted1 when they resolved to seek a better shelter4 ,they put off in a great hurry1 not even waiting to thank their owner for the spread on his table1 and the sweet-scented yarbs and good things with which he had rubbed their hive4 ,they gave him no notice whatever of their intention to quit1 until they were moving6 ,with all their goods ready packed1 they were soon under way1 accompanied by their owner with music2 but whether they marched with martial precision1 keeping time1 is uncertain4 ,in this case the bees took the lead2 the man with his tin-pan music kept the rear1 and was soon at a respectful distance4 ,they were either not in a mood1 just then1 to be charmed by melodious sounds1 or their business was too urgent to allow them to stop and listen6 ,their means of locomotion being superior to his1 he gave up in despair1 out of breath1 after following about a mile4 ,another person1 about the same time in the day1 saw a swarm moving in the same direction of the first2 he also followed them till compelled to yield to their greater travelling facilities4 ,a third discovered their flight and attempted a race1 but like the others soon came out behind4 ,the before-mentioned neighbor saw them1 and thought of the fresh earth that he had ploughed up1 which he threw among them till they stopped4 ,how much farther they would have gone1 if any1 would be guessing4 ,that it was the same swarm that started three miles away1 appears almost certain2 the direction was the same as seen by all1 until they were stopped2 the time in the day also exactly corresponded4 ,we will now return to the issuing of the swarms4 ,there will be some emergencies to provide for1 and some exceptions to notice4 ,,two ,,or ,,more ,,swarms ,,liable ,,to ,,unite4 ,if we expect to keep many stocks1 the chances are that two or more may issue at one time2 and when they do1 they nearly always cluster together 7,i once knew an instance where only three stocks were kept2 they all swarmed and clustered together74 ,it is plain that the greater the number of stocks1 the more such chances are multiplied4 ,,disadvantage4 ,one first swarm1 if of the usual size1 will contain bees enough for profit1 yet two such will work together without quarrelling1 and will store about one-third more than either would alone2 that is1 if each single swarm would get #ej lbs41 the two together would not get over #gj lbs41 perhaps less4 ,here1 then1 is a loss of #cj lbs41 besides one of the swarms is about lost for another year2 because such double swarms are not generally any better the next spring as a stock1 and often not as good as a single one4 ,you will therefore see the advantage of keeping the first swarms separate4 ,,can ,,often ,,be ,,prevented4 ,prevention is better than cure4 ,we can1 if we keep a good lookout1 often prevent more than one issuing at a time4 ,this depends on our knowledge of indications1 in a great measure4 ,i have said that before starting to fly off1 they were about the entrance in great numbers2 there may be one exception in twenty1 where the first indications will be a column of bees rushing from the hive4 ,to take this matter a little farther from the surface1 we will take a peep at the interior2 that is1 if our hives contain glass boxes1 such as have been recommended4 ,it is an advantage to know which are about to cast their swarms1 as long beforehand as possible4 ,,indications ,,of ,,swarming ,,inside ,,the ,,hive4 ,these glass boxes are usually filled with bees2 before leaving they may be seen in commotion1 long before any unusual stir is visible outside1 sometimes for near an hour4 ,the same may be noticed in a glass hive4 ,now1 in good weather1 when we have reason to expect many swarms1 it is our duty to watch closely1 especially when the weather has been unfavorable for several days previous4 ,a number of stocks may have finished their queen-cells during the bad weather1 and be ready to come out within the first hour of sunshine that occurs in the middle of the day4 ,we must expect some such occurrences1 and in large apiaries there is apt to be trouble1 unless you take some precautions4 ,if you have taken no care 7which but few will71 by previous examinations1 to know which are ready1 as soon as one has started or commenced flying1 look at all the rest that are in condition to swarm2 or1 what is much better1 look before any have started4 ,even if nothing unusual is seen about the entrance1 raise the cover to the boxes4 ,if the bees in them are all quiet as usual1 no swarm need be immediately apprehended1 and you will probably have time to hive one or two first4 ,,preventing ,a ,,swarm ,,issuing ,,for ,a ,,time4 ,but should you discover the bees running to and fro in great commotion1 although there may be but few about the entrance1 you should lose no time in sprinkling those outside with water from a watering-pot1 or other means4 ,they will immediately enter the hive to avoid the supposed shower4 ,in half an hour they will be ready to start again1 in which time the others may be secured4 ,i have had1 in one apiary1 twelve hives all ready in one day1 and did actually swarm2 several of which would have started at once1 had they not been kept back with water1 allowing only one at a time1 thus keeping them separate4 ,they had been kept back by the clouds1 which broke away about noon4 ,,to ,,prevent ,,swarms ,,uniting ,,with ,,those ,,already ,,hived4 ,when any of the subsequent swarms were disposed to unite with those already hived1 a sheet was thrown over to keep them out4 ,i had four so covered at once4 ,an assistant1 in such cases1 is very important2 one can watch symptoms and keep them back1 while the other hives the swarms4 ,occasionally1 when ready for a swarm and waiting for one to start1 two may do so at once4 ,whenever a part have got on the wing1 ,i never succeeded in stopping the issue3 consequently ,i have found it useless trying to drive or coax them back in such cases4 ,to succeed1 the means must be used in season1 before any of the swarm leaves4 ,,when ,,two ,,have ,,united1 ,,the ,,method ,,of ,,separating4 ,two or more swarms will cluster together1 and not quarrel1 if put in one hive2 ,i have already told you the disadvantages4 ,unless business is very urgent1 your time cannot be better employed than in dividing them4 ,first1 it is necessary to provide a good stock of patience1 as it may be a short job1 or it may be a long one4 ,get two empty hives1 and divide the bees as nearly equal as possible4 ,it is generally the best way to spread a sheet on the ground1 and shake the bees in the centre1 and set the hives each side of the mass1 their edges raised to allow the bees to enter2 if too many are disposed to enter one hive1 set it farther off4 ,if they cluster in a situation where they cannot be got to the earth in a body1 they must be dipped off as before directed1 but1 in this case1 putting a dipper full in each hive alternately1 until all are in4 ,they should be made to hurry some in going in2 keep the entrance clear1 and stir them up often2 or sprinkle a very little water on them1 as they should not be allowed to stop their humming until all are in4 ,we have one chance in two of getting a queen in each4 ,the two hives should now be placed twenty feet apart2 if there is a queen in each1 the bees in both will remain quiet1 and the work is done2 but if not1 the bees in the one destitute will soon manifest it by running about in all directions1 and1 when the queen cannot be found1 will leave for the other hive1 where there are probably two1 a few going at a time4 ,now there are two or three methods of separating these queens2 one is1 to empty the bees out and proceed as before1 a kind of chance game1 that may succeed at the next trial1 and may have to be repeated4 ,another way is1 that1 as soon as it is ascertained which is without a queen1 before many bees leave1 spread down a sheet2 set this hive on it1 and tie the corners over the top to secure the bees for the present1 turn the hive on its side for the present to give them air2 or it may be let down on a wire cloth bottom-board and the hole in the side stopped1 and this would be less likely to smother the bees1 if it could be secured to the bottom1 and have the hive lie on its side2 when this division is secured1 get another hive1 and jar out those with the queens2 let them enter as before1 and then set them apart1 c41 watching the result2 if the queens are not yet separate1 it will be known by the same appearances4 ,the process must be continued till separate1 or the number with the queens may be easily looked over1 and one of them found2 indeed1 a sharp lookout should be kept up from the beginning1 and the queens caught1 if possible4 ,,no ,,danger ,,of ,a ,,sting ,,by ,,the ,,queen4 ,no danger of her sting need be apprehended1 as she will not demean herself to use that for a common foe2 she must have a royal antagonist4 ,when successful in obtaining one1 it is sufficient2 put her in a tumbler or some safe place2 then put your bees in two hives1 place them as directed1 and you will soon learn where your queen is needed4 ,after all is done1 the two hives should not be nearer than twenty feet1 at least the first day2 perhaps forty would be still better4 ,when two swarms are mixed1 and then separated1 it is evident that a portion of each swarm must be in both hives4 ,a queen in each must of course be a stranger to at least a part of the bees2 these might1 if their own mother was too near1 discover her1 and leave the stranger for an old acquaintance1 and1 in the act of going1 call or attract the whole with them1 including the queen4 ,i have known a few instances of the kind4 ,,some ,,precautions ,,in ,,hiving ,,two ,,swarms ,,together4 ,if you are disposed to separate them1 but are afraid to work among them to this extent in the middle of the day1 or if there is danger of more issuing1 to mix with them1 and add to your perplexity1 of which you already have enough1 then you can hive them as a single swarm2 but1 instead of a bottom-board1 invert an empty hive and set the one with the swarm on this1 and insert a wedge between them1 for ventilation4 ,as many bees are liable to drop down1 in this case the lower hive will catch them1 and there is less danger of leaving4 ,let them remain till near sunset1 when another course may be taken to find a queen1 though by that time one is sometimes killed2 yet it is well to know the fact4 ,take them to some place out of the sun1 as a less number will fly during the operation4 ,,how ,,to ,,find ,,queen1 ,,when ,,two ,,strangers ,,are ,,together4 ,first1 look into the lower hive for a dead queen1 and1 if none is found there1 look thoroughly1 as far as possible1 for a little compact cluster of bees1 the size of a hen's egg1 that may be rolled about without separating4 ,secure this cluster in a tumbler2 it is quite sure one of the queens is a prisoner in the middle2#af should two be seen1 get both4 ,then divide the bees1 and give the one destitute1 a queen2 or1 if you have two1 one to each1 as the case may be4 ,it would be well first to see if the queen was alive1 by removing the bees from about her4 ,but should you find nothing of the kind1 spread a sheet on the ground1 shake the bees on one end of it1 and set the hive on the other2 they will immediately begin a march for the hive4 ,you may now see the cluster1 and may not2 but they will spread out in marching1 and give a good chance to see her majesty1 when a tumbler is the most convenient thing to set over her4 ,no matter if a few bees are shut up with her1 there is no risk1 then1 in your eagerness to get the queen1 of taking hold of a worker or two4 ,a piece of window-glass can be slipped under1 and you have her safe1 and by this time you will know what is to be done next4 ,this operation could not well be done in the middle of the day1 or in the sun1 as too many bees would be flying1 and greatly interfere4 #af ,all stranger queens1 introduced into a stock or swarm1 are secured and detained in this manner by the workers1 but whether they dispatch them1 or this is a means adopted to incite them to a deadly conflict1 writers do not agree1 and ,i shall not attempt a decision1 as ,i never saw the bees voluntarily release a queen thus confined4 ,but ,i have seen queens1 when no bees interfered1 rush together in a fatal rencounter1 and one of them was soon left a fallen victim of the contest4 ',tis said it never happens that both are killed in these battles1--perhaps not4 ,as ,i never saw quite all of these royal combats1 of course ,i cannot decide4 ,should you fail in finding a queen1 and cannot succeed in making a division in consequence1 or should you resolve1 from want of time1 patience or energy1 to let them remain together in the beginning1 it is unnecessary to get a hive any larger than usual for two swarms2 they will certainly find room by cold weather3 if more than two1 they should be divided by all means2 it will be a disadvantage for another year4 ,for the first four days1 when two large swarms are together1 it is necessary to keep an inverted hive under them1 but much longer it would not do1 as they might extend their combs into the lower hive4 ,,boxes ,,for ,,double ,,swarms ,,immediately4 ,it should then be taken out1 and boxes immediately put on1 which should be changed for empty ones1 as fast as they are filled4 ,yet1 this extra honey is not quite as much advantage as increase of stocks2 when that is an object1 ,i will recommend another disposition4 ,,returning ,a ,,part ,,to ,,the ,,old ,,stock4 ,separate one-third or more of the two swarms1 being sure there is no queen with this part1 7by the test given of setting them at a distance7 and then return them to one of the old stocks2 they will immediately enter without contention1 and issue again in about nine days1 or as soon as a young queen is matured to go with them4 ,there may be an exception to this1 of one in twenty4 ,i would have recommended this course in all cases of the kind1 but there will be a loss of time for the bees in the old stock2 because they are apt to be rather idle1 even when they might labor in the boxes2 and here there is a loss of some eight or ten days4 ,the collections of a good swarm may be estimated at least one pound a day1 7often two or three47 ,a swarm that just fills the hive1 would make at least ten pounds box-honey1 if it could have been located ten days earlier4 ,still another method may be adopted when you have a very small swarm1 one that is not likely to fill the hive1 and has not been hived more than two or three days4 ,a third of your two swarms may be put in with that2 taking care1 as before1 not to let your only queen go with them4 ,,method ,,of ,,uniting4 ,the manner of doing it is very simple2 get them in a hive as before directed1 and jar them out in front of the one you wish them to enter1 or invert it1 setting the other over1 and let them run up4 ,,when ,,care ,,is ,,necessary4 ,except on the day of swarming1 care is necessary not to introduce a small number with a large swarm2 they are liable to be destroyed4 ,the danger is much greater than to put together about an equal number1 or a large number put in with a few4 ,the day that swarms issue1 they will generally mix peaceably1 but in proportion as time intervenes between the issues1 so will be the liability to quarrel4 ,yet1 ,i have united two families of about equal numbers in the fall and spring1 and1 with a few exceptions1 have had no difficulty4 ,,swarm-,,catcher4 ,there is another method of keeping swarms separate1 contrived and used by a ,mr4 ,loucks1 of ,herkimer ,co41 ,n4,y4 ,he calls it a swarm-catcher2 he has a half dozen of them1 and says he would not do without for one season1 for fifty dollars1 as he has a large apiary4 ,i made one as near as ,i could from seeing his1 without taking the exact measure4 ,i got out four light posts four and half feet long1 one inch square2 then twelve pieces of one-quarter inch stuff1 four inches wide2 the four for the top twelve inches long1 for the bottom two were fourteen inches long1 and two were twenty4 ,these were thoroughly nailed on the ends of the posts1 making it into an upright frame1 the other four pieces were nailed around the middle1 which made the frame firmer4 ,i made a frame for the top1 of four pieces1 each an inch and a half in width1 and half inch thick1 halved at the ends and nailed together1 and fastened by hinges to one side of the top1 and a catch to hold it shut4 ,the whole was now covered with very thin cloth to admit the light1 but not so open as to let the bees through1 7,mr4 ,loucks used cloth made for cheese-strainers47 ,i now had a covered frame four and half feet high1 #ab inches square at the top1 at the bottom #ad by #bj1 with a door or lid at the top1 to let out the bees4 ,on each side of the bottom ,i tacked a piece of common muslin1 near a yard in length4 ,when a swarm is ready to issue1 the bottom of this frame is set up before the hive1 one edge of the bottom rests on the bottom-board1 the other against the side of the hive2 the top sets off from the hive at an angle of about #de degrees1 under which a brace is set to hold it4 ,the muslin at the bottom is to wrap around the hive at the side to prevent the escape of the bees4 ,the swarm rushes into this without any hesitation4 ,when done coming out1 the muslin at the bottom is drawn over it1 and the frame is set in an upright position1 and allowed to stand a few minutes for the bees to get quiet in the top4 ,it is now to be laid on its side1 the door opened1 and the bees hived4 ,in the few trials that ,i have given it1 ,i succeeded without difficulty4 ,but ,i would remark1 that stocks from which swarms are caught in this way1 must not be raised at the back side1 as a part of the swarm would issue there1 and not get into the net4 ,mr4 ,loucks had his hive directly on the board2 and he told me he kept them so through the season3 the only places of entrance was a sprout out of the bottom of the front side1 about three inches wide by half inch deep1 and a hole in the side a few inches up4 ,you will thus perceive that stocks from which swarms are hived in this way must be prepared for it previously4 ,also1 it will be no use to such bee-keepers as depend on seeing their swarms in the air4 ,it will be beneficial only in large apiaries1 where several swarms are liable to issue at once2 the swarming indications well understood1 and the apiarian on the lookout4 ,,swarms ,,sometimes ,,return4 ,occasionally a swarm will issue1 and in a few minutes return to the old stock4 ,mr4 ,miner gives a cause for this1 very ingenious1 and romantic1 but unfortunately there are but few facts to sustain this hypothesis1 7at least ,i have not discovered them47 ,there are other causes that appear to me more reasonable2 the most common is the inability of the old queen to fly1 on account of her burden of eggs1 old age1 or something else4 ,i have sometimes1 after the swarm had returned found the queen near the stock1 and put her back1 and the next day she would come out again1 and fly without difficulty1 7perhaps she had discharged some of her eggs47 ,their returning is more frequent in windy weather1 or when the sun is partially obscured by clouds4 ,about three-fourths of them will not re-issue until a young queen is matured1 eight or ten days afterwards2 and a few1 not at all4 ,but when the queen returns with the swarm1 they usually come out again the next day1 or day after1 and some not till the third or fourth4 ,i have known two instances where they issued again the same day4 ,,repetition ,,prevented4 ,sometimes a swarm will issue and return three or four days in succession1 but this ,i generally remedy1 as it is often owing to some inability of the queen1 and she may be frequently found while the swarm is leaving outside the hive1 unable to fly4 ,in such cases it is only necessary to have a tumbler ready1 and watch for her2 and as soon as she appears1 secure her1 get the empty hive for the swarm1 a sheet1 and put down a bottom-board a few feet from the stock4 ,the swarm is sure to come back2 the first bees that alight on the hive will set up the call2 as soon as this is perceived1 lose no time in setting the old stock on the board1 and throwing the sheet over it to keep out the bees4 ,put the new one in its place on the stand1 and the queen in it2 in a few minutes the swarm will be in the new hive1 when it can be removed1 and the old one replaced4 ,this ,i have done many times4 ,but should the swarm begin to cluster in a convenient place1 when you have so caught the queen1 by being expeditious she may be put with the swarm1 before they have missed her and may be hived in the usual way4 ,,liability ,,to ,,enter ,,wrong ,,stocks4 ,in all cases1 whether you set a new hive in place of the old one or not1 whenever a swarm returns1 if other stocks stand close on each side1 they are quite sure to receive a portion of the bees--probably a few hundreds2 these are certain to be massacred4 ,to prevent which1 it is necessary to throw sheets over them until the swarm has gathered on their own hive4 ,this is another reason for plenty of room between stocks4 ,should no queen be discovered during their issue1 or return1 she should be sought for in the vicinity of the hive1 and put back if found1 and the swarm will be likely to issue several days earlier1 than to wait for a young queen4 ,when the old queen is actually lost1 and the bees have returned to wait for a young one1 it is often ready to leave one or two days short of the time required for second swarms4 ,whether a greater number of bees in the old stock creating more animal heat1 matures the chrysalis in less time than a stock thinned by casting a swarm1 or some other cause1 ,i cannot say4 ,i mention it because ,i have known it to occur frequently1 but not invariably4 ,a swarm flying1 unaccompanied by a queen1 is scattered more than usual4 ,,first ,,issues ,,generally ,,choose ,,fair ,,weather4 ,first swarms are commonly more particular as to weather than after swarms4 ,they have several days from which to choose1 after these royal cells are ready1 and before the queens are matured2 and they usually take a fair one4 ,but here again are exceptions4 ,i once had two first swarms issue in a wind that kept every branch of tree and bush in agitation to such a degree that it was impossible to find any such place to cluster4 ,i expected their return to the old hive2 but here were more exceptions4 ,after repeating a fruitless attempt at the branches1 they gave it up1 and came down amongst the grass on terra firma4 ,this occurred after several days of rainy weather4 ,the next day being pleasant1 twelve issued2 almost proving that the wind the preceding day kept back a part4 ,i also knew one to issue in a shower1 that beat many of them to the ground before they could cluster4 ,in this case the shower was sudden1 the sun shone almost up to the time it began to rain4 ,about this time the swarm started when it seemed they were unwilling to turn about4 ,,after ,,swarms4 ,after swarms are second and third issues 7or all after the first7 from a stock2 and quite a different affair from the first1 as also are some first swarms1 when the old queen has been lost1 being led out by young queens4 ,,their ,,size4 ,second swarms are usually half as large as the first1 the third half as large as the second1 the fourth still less2 with some variations4 ,i give general features1 noticing only the exceptions that occur most frequently2 others sometimes happen1 but so seldom that mentioning them is deemed unnecessary4 ,,time ,,after ,,the ,,first4 ,whenever the first swarm in a prosperous season was not kept back by foul weather1 the first of the young queens in the old stock is ready to emerge in about eight days4 ,we will suppose the first swarm issued on ,sunday2 a week from the next ,tuesday will be usually as soon as the second one need be expected4 ,,piping ,,of ,,the ,,queen4 ,on the ,monday evening previous1 or on ,tuesday morning1 by putting your ear close to the hive1 and listening attentively five minutes1 you will hear a distinct piping noise1 like the word peep1 peep1 uttered several times in succession1 and then an interval of silence2 two or more may be often heard at the same time2 that of one will be shrill and fine1 of another hoarse1 short and quick4 ,this piping is easily heard by any one not actually deaf1 and not the least danger of its being taken for any humming2 in fact1 it is not to be mistaken for anything else but piping1 even when you hear it for the first time4 ,these notes can probably never be heard except when the hive contains a plurality of queens4 ,,may ,,always ,,be ,,heard ,,before ,,and ,,after ,,swarm4 ,i never failed to hear it1 previous to a second swarm1 or any after the first1 whenever ,i listened2 and whenever ,i have listened and not heard it at the proper time1 ,i never knew a second swarm to issue6 ,,time ,,of ,,continuance ,,varies4 ,the time of commencing will be later than this rule in some stocks1 if the weather is cool1 or not many bees left2 it may be ten or twelve days4 ,i once found it fourteen before ,i heard it4 ,also the swarm may not issue in two or three days after you hear it4 ,the longer the swarm delays1 the louder will be the piping2 ,i have heard it distinctly twenty feet1 by listening attentively when ,i knew one was thus engaged2 but at first it is rather faint4 ,by putting your ear against the hive it may be heard even in the middle of the day1 or at any time before issuing4 ,the length of time it may be heard beforehand seems to be governed again by the yield of honey2 when abundant it is common for them to issue the next day2 but when somewhat scarce1 they will be much longer--very often three or four days4 ,in these cases third swarms seldom occur4 ,,time ,,between ,,second ,,and ,,third ,,issues4 ,piping for third swarms 7when they issue7 may usually be heard the evening after the second has left1 though one day commonly intervenes between their issues4 ,here my experience is at variance with many writers1 who give several days between the second and third4 ,i do not recollect an instance of more than three days between1 but many in less1 several the next1 and one the same day of the second6 ,i had an instance of a swarm losing its queen 7the old one7 on its first sally1 and returned to wait for the young ones2 when they were ready1 an uncommon number of bees were present2 three swarms issued in three days6 ,on the fourth1 another came out and returned2 the fifth day it left2 making four regular swarms in five days4 ,on the eighth1 the fifth swarm left6 ,although ,i never had five swarms from a stock before1 yet ,i expected this1 from the fact of hearing the piping on the next evening after the fourth one had left4 ,the piping had continued in this hive from the evening previous to the first swarm till the last one had left4 ,,not ,,always ,,to ,,be ,,depended ,,upon4 ,one stock in fifteen may commence piping1 yet send out no swarm4 ,the bees will change their minds about coming out1 and kill their queens1 or allow the eldest one of them to destroy the others1 or some other way1 as they do not always swarm in such circumstances4 ,but when the piping continues over twenty-four hours1 ,i never knew but one failure6 ,i have known a few 7two or three7 to commence this piping1 while ,i supposed the old queen was yet present1 and had not left the hive1 on account of bad weather1 but a swarm issued soon after4 ,also1 three instances where ,i supposed the old queen lost1 from some other cause than leading out a swarm1 and the stock reared some young ones to supply her place4 ,it occurred in or near the swarming season1 and one or two issues was the consequence4 ,one case was three weeks in advance of the season1 and the swarm was about half the usual size4 ,when a swarm has been out1 and returned at the last of the swarming season1 it is much more probable to re-issue1 than if it depended on an old queen for a leader1 that had not been out4 ,such will sometimes be a week or ten days later than others4 ,once ,i had the first swarm kept back by wet weather1 and the second came out on the fifth day after2 several other instances on the seventh and eighth2 and one as late as the sixteenth1 after the first4 ,a ,,rule ,,for ,,the ,,time ,,of ,,these ,,issues4 ,this may be put down as a rule1 that all after swarms must be out by the eighteenth day from the first4 ,i never found an exception1 unless the following may be considered so3 ,when a swarm left the middle of ,may1 and another the first of ,july1 seven weeks after1 but two cases of this kind have come up1 and these ,i consider rather in the light of first swarms1 as they leave under the same circumstances1 leaving the combs in the old stock filled with brood1 queen-cells finished1 c4 ,a stock may cast swarms in ,june1 and a buckwheat swarm in ,august1 on the same principle4 ,,when ,,it ,,is ,,useless ,,to ,,expect ,,more ,,swarms4 ,therefore1 bee-keepers having but few stocks1 will find it unnecessary to watch their bees when the last of the first swarms came out sixteen or eighteen days before4 ,much trouble may be thus saved by understanding this matter4 ,during my early days in beekeeping1 ,i wished for the greatest possible increase of stocks4 ,i had some that had cast the first swarm1 and soon after clustered out again4 ,i vainly watched them for weeks and months1 expecting another swarm4 ,but had ,i understood the modus operandi1 as the reader may now understand it1 ,i should have been through with all my anxiety1 as well as watching1 in a fortnight4 ,as it was1 it lasted two months4 ,i found no one to give me any light on this subject1 or even tell me when the swarming season was over1 and ,i came very near watching all summer6 ,,plurality ,,of ,,queens ,,destroyed4 ,when the bees1 queens1 or all together1 decide that no more swarms are to issue1 the plurality of queens is destroyed1 and but one is left4 ,it is probable that the oldest and strongest queen dispatches the others1 generally while in the cells4 ,i once had some artificial queens reared1 as an experiment1 from common eggs1 on the top of a hive1 in a small glass box1 where there was room for but one comb1 which allowed me to see all particulars4 ,,the ,,manner4 ,after the first queen was matured1 and had left her cell1 ,i caught her within six hours1 taking advantage of her younger sisters1 which were yet sealed up1 and of course could offer no resistance4 ,she first made an opening that would allow her to reach the abdomen of her competitor 7probably this is the most vulnerable74 ,as soon as this was sufficiently large to admit her body1 she thrust it in1 inflicting the fatal sting4 ,this was then left for another1 that soon shared the same fate4 ,if quick and spiteful movements are any indications of hatred1 it was manifested here very plainly4 ,the bees enlarged the orifice and dragged out the now dead queens4 ,now1 if ,i should say that all queens were dispatched in this way1 merely because ,i witnessed it in this case1 it would be carrying out the principle ,i am endeavoring to avoid3 that is1 judging all cases from one or two solitary facts4 ,as it is1 it is somewhat confirmatory of what some others have said4 ,i will suppose1 then1 until further evidence contradicts it1 that the first perfect queen leaving her cell1 makes it her business to destroy all rivals in their cradle1 as soon as it is decided that no more swarms shall issue4 ,by keeping grass1 weeds1 c41 away from about the stock1 these dead queens1 as they are brought out1 may be frequently found4 ,such as are removed during the night may be often found on the floor-board in the morning4 ,i have found a dozen by one stock4 ,should the stock send out but one swarm1 they may be found about the time1 or a little before you would listen for the piping4 ,but should after swarms come out1 they will1 or may be found the next morning after it is decided that no more are to issue4 ,it is very seldom that all the queens reared are needed4 ,they make it a rule1 as far as they have control1 to go on safe principles1 by having a little more than just enough4 ,when several such bodies are thrown out1 and no piping is heard1 no further swarming need be expected4 ,but should you hear the piping a day or two after finding a dead queen1 you may yet look for the swarm4 ,,theory ,,doubted4 ,it is stated that when the bees decide an after swarm shall issue1 the first queen matured is not allowed to leave her cell1 but kept a prisoner there1 and fed until wanted to go forth with the swarm4 ,this may be true in some cases 7though not satisfactorily proved71 but ,i am quite sure it is not in all4 ,when she is confined to her cell1 how does she ascertain the presence of others8 ,by leaving the cell1 this knowledge is easily obtained4 ,huber says she does1 and is enraged at the existence of others1 and endeavors to destroy them while yet in the cell1 which the workers will not allow2 this is so irritating to her majesty that she utters this peculiar sound4 ,also second and third swarms may contain several queens1 frequently two1 three1 and four2 even six at one time come out4 ,if these had to bite their way out1 after the workers had decided it was time to start 7for it must be they decide it when the queens are shut up71 they would hardly be in season4 ,,after ,,swarms ,,different ,,in ,,appearance ,,from ,,the ,,first ,,when ,,about ,,to ,,issue4 ,another thing1 when after swarms start1 the appearance about the entrance is altogether different from first ones1 unless there is an unusual number of bees4 ,i have said that for a little time beforehand1 that such were in an apparent tumult1 c4 ,but after swarms seldom give any such notice4 ,one or more of the young queens may sometimes be seen to run out1 and back1 several times in a few minutes1 in a perfect frenzy2 sometimes fly a short distance1 and return before the swarm will get started 7which she could not do if confined74 ,the workers seem more reluctant about leaving than in first swarms1 when a mother instead of a sister is leader4 ,even after the swarm is in motion1 she may return and enter the hive a moment4 ,no doubt she finds it necessary to animate or induce as many as possible to leave with her4 ,a person watching the issue of a second swarm under these circumstances1 for the first time1 and finding the queen leaving first1 would very likely guess all must be alike4 ,perhaps the next one would be different2 the first thing seen might be the swarm leaving1 and no queen discovered at all4 ,but to return to the imprisonment of the queens4 ,i have one other fact in objection4 ,i once saw a queen running about in a glass hive1 while they were piping for a second swarm4 ,she was near the glass1 appeared agitated1 stopping occasionally to vibrate her wings1 which was simultaneous with the piping1 and seemed to make it4 ,the workers appeared to take but little notice of her4 ,the next day the swarm left4 ,here was one instance1 at least1 of her not being confined till the time of leaving1 making an exception1 if not a rule4 ,let this matter be as it may1 ,i admit it makes but little difference to the practical apiarian1 either way2 but to the reader whose interest is the natural history of the bee1 the truth is important4 ,,time ,,of ,,day1 ,,weather1 ,,etc4 ,these after swarms are not very particular about the weather2 heavy winds1 a few clouds1 and sometimes a slight sprinkling of rain1 will not always deter them4 ,neither are they very precise about the time of day4 ,i have known them in a warm morning to issue before seven o'clock1 and after five ,p4,m4 ,these things should be understood2 because1 when after swarms are expected 7of which the piping will give warning71 it is necessary to watch them in weather1 and at times when first ones would not venture to leave4 ,,swarms ,,necessary ,,to ,,be ,,seen4 ,it is essential that you see them1 that you may know where they cluster1 otherwise it might be difficult to find them4 ,they are apt to go farther from the parent stock than others2 sometimes fifty rods1 and then settle in two places1 perhaps that distance apart1 in some high or inconvenient place to get at4 7,let me not be misunderstood3 ,i do not say they all do so1 or even the majority2 but ,i wish to say that a greater portion of these swarms do so than of the first47 ,if they cluster in two places1 a queen may be in each1 and they will remain1 and when you have hived one part you may think you have all4 ,if one cluster is without a queen1 they will join the other if near2 but when distant1 will be very likely to return to the old stock soon1 unless put together4 ,i had a swarm light in two places1 in exactly opposite directions from the stock4 ,in one1 a good swarm had clustered2 in the other1 some less than a pint4 ,the small part had one or more queens1 the other none4 ,it was perceived at once by their movements4 ,now1 if we provide a hive for a swarm1 and get a few to set up the call or buzzing1 they will not leave till that is stopped4 ,there is generally no difficulty to start it4 ,the surest way is to jar a portion or all directly into the hive4 ,it takes a few minutes to get composed1 and miss the queen4 ,in my case ,i got them in the hive1 and before they missed the queen1 carried them to the small cluster1 which ,i got in a dipper and emptied in front of the hive2 they entered1 and all were peaceable4 ,you will therefore see the necessity of watching such swarms1 to see if there is no separation1 if nothing else4 ,,returning ,,after ,,swarms ,,to ,,the ,,old ,,stock4 ,much has been said about returning all after swarms to the old stock2 the advantages of which will depend on the time of issuing2 whether late or early1 the yield of honey1 etc4 ,it would be unusual to have many after swarms without a liberal yield of honey1 for the time being2 but to tell of its continuance is the question to be answered4 ,second1 and even third swarms1 if early in the season1 and the honey continues plentiful1 may be hived1 and these1 together with the old stock1 will prosper4 ,here the apiarian needs a little judgment and experience to guide him4 ,,when ,,they ,,should ,,be ,,returned4 ,it is always best1 if possible1 to have good strong families4 ,when after swarms are late it is safest to return them1 as the old stock will need them to replenish the hive1 and prepare for winter4 ,also a less number of worms will infest it1 when well provided with bees2 and the chances of box honey are greater4 ,,method ,,of ,,doing ,,it4 ,but the process of returning such requires some little patience and perseverance4 ,i have said there may be a dozen young queens in the old stock4 ,now suppose one1 two1 or more leave with the swarm1 and you return the whole together1 there is nothing to prevent their leading out the swarm again the next day4 ,therefore it is policy to keep the queens back4 ,the least trouble is to hive in the usual way1 and let them stand till the next morning4 ,it will save you the trouble of looking for more than one1 if there should be more1 for all but that are destroyed by that time4 ,there is a chance1 also1 for the old stock to decide that no more should issue1 and allow all but one to be slain there4 ,when this is the case1 and you find the one with the swarm1 you will have no further trouble by their re-issuing4 ,they should be returned as soon as the next morning1 otherwise they might not agree1 even when put in the old home4 ,to return them1 and find a queen easily1 get a wide board a few feet long2 let one end rest on the ground1 the other near the entrance1 that they may enter the hive without flying2 then shake out the swarm on the lower end of the board2 but few will fly1 but soon commence running up towards the hive2 the first one that discovers the entrance will set up the call for the others4 ,if they do not discover it1 which is the case sometimes1 scatter some of them near it1 and they will soon commence marching up1 when you should look out for1 and secure the queen1 as they spread and give a good chance4 ,by applying your ear to the hive1 the piping will tell you if they are to issue again4 ,it is evident1 if you follow these directions1 that the swarm cannot issue many times before their stock of royalty will be exhausted2 and when but one queen remains the piping will cease1 and no further trouble will be had4 ,to prevent these after swarms1 some writers recommend turning over the hive and cutting out all the royal cells but one4 ,this ,i have found impracticable with a great many stocks4 ,some of the cells are too near the top to be seen1 consequently this cannot always be depended upon4 ,as for a rule about returning1 it is somewhat difficult to give one4 ,if ,i should say1 return all such as issue after the #bjth of ,june1 the variation in the season might be two or three weeks1 even in the same latitude2 i4e41 the course of flowers that had bloomed by that date in one season might1 another year1 require two weeks more to bring out4 ,also1 the #bjth of ,june1 in latitude of ,new ,york ,city1 is as late as the #dth of ,july in many places further north4 ,i once had a second swarm on the #aath of ,july1 that wintered well1 having nearly filled the hive4 ,yet1 in some seasons1 the first swarms1 of the last of ,june1 have failed to get enough4 ,in sections where much buckwheat is raised1 late swarms do more towards filling their hives than where there is none4 ,,more ,,care ,,needed ,,by ,,after ,,swarms ,,when ,,hived4 ,should it be thought best to hive after swarms1 and risk the chances1 they should receive a little extra attention after the first week or two1 to destroy the worms2 a little timely care may prevent considerable injury4 ,they are apt to construct more combs in proportion to the number of bees1 than others2 consequently1 such combs cannot be properly covered and protected4 ,the moth has an opportunity to deposit her eggs on them1 and1 sometimes1 entirely destroy them4 ,,two ,,may ,,be ,,united4 ,whenever these swarms issue near enough together1 it is best to unite them4 ,i have said second swarms were generally half as large as the first4 ,by this rule1 two second swarms would contain as many bees as a first one1 and four of the third1 or one of the second issue1 and two of the third1 c4 ,if the first and second are of the ordinary size1 ,i think it advisable always to return the third4 ,but in large apiaries it is common for them to issue without any previous warning1 just when a first one is leaving1 and crowd themselves into their company1 and seeming to be as much at home as though they were equally respectable4 ,whenever the hives containing our swarms are full or very near it1 the boxes should be put on without delay1 unless the season of honey is so nearly gone as to make it unnecessary4 ,i have found it an advantage to hive a few of these very small swarms1 on purpose to preserve queens1 to supply some old stocks that sometimes lose their own at the extreme end of the swarming season4 ,the cases to be mentioned at the last of the next chapter4 ,i try and save one for about every twenty stocks that have swarmed4 ,,chapter ,,xiv4 ,,loss ,,of ,,queens4 ,,of ,,swarms ,,that ,,lose ,,their ,,queen4 ,swarms that lose their queen the first few hours after being hived1 generally return to the parent stock2 with the exception that they sometimes unite with some other4 ,if much time has elapsed before the loss1 they remain1 unless standing on the same bench with another4 ,on a separate stand they continue their labor1 but a large swarm diminishes rapidly1 and seldom fills an ordinary-sized hive4 ,one singular circumstance attends a swarm that is constructing combs without a queen4 ,i have never seen it noticed by any one1 and may not always be the case1 but every instance that has come under my notice1 ,i have so found it4 ,that is1 four-fifths of the combs are drone-cells2 why they thus construct them is another subject for speculation1 from which ,i will endeavor in this instance to refrain4 ,a ,,suggestion ,,and ,,an ,,answer4 ,it has been suggested as a profitable speculation1 to hive a large swarm without a queen1 and give them a piece of brood-comb containing eggs1 to rear one1 and then as soon as it is matured1 deprive them of it1 giving them another piece of comb1 and continue it throughout the summer1 putting on boxes for surplus honey4 ,the bees having no young brood to consume any honey1 no time will be lost1 or taken to nurse them1 and as a consequence they will be enabled to store large quantities of surplus honey4 ,this appears very plausible1 and to a person without experience somewhat conclusive4 ,if success depended on some animal whose lease of life was a little longer1 it would answer better to calculate in this way4 ,but as a bee seldom sees the anniversary of its birthday1 and most of them perish the first few months of their existence1 it is bad economy4 ,it will be found that the largest amount of our surplus honey is obtained from our prolific stocks4 ,therefore it is all-important that every swarm and stock has a queen to repair this constant loss4 ,a ,,disputed ,,question4 ,we now approach another disputed point in natural history1 relative to the queen leaving at any time except when leading out a swarm4 ,most writers say that the young queen leaves the hive1 and meets her paramour1 the drone1 on the wing4 ,others deny this positively1 having watched a whole summer without seeing her highness leave4 ,consequently they have arrived at the very plausible and apparently consistent conclusion1 that nature never intended it to be so1 since it must happen at a time when the existence of the whole family depends entirely on the life of the queen4 ,the stock at such times contains no eggs or larvae1 from which to rear another1 if she should be lost4 ,the chances at such times of being devoured by birds1 blown away by the winds1 and other casualties1 are too many1 and it is not probable the ,creator would have so arranged it4 ,but facts are stubborn things2 they will not yield one jot to favor the most finely-spun hypothesis2 they are most provokingly obstinate1 many times4 ,when man1 without the necessary observation1 takes a survey through animated nature1 and finds with scarcely an exception that male and female are about equal in number1 he is ready1 and often does conclude that one bee among thousands cannot be the only one capable of reproduction or depositing eggs4 ,why1 the idea is preposterous6 ,and yet only a little observation will upset this very consistent and analogous reasoning4 ,so it appears to be with the excursions of the young queens4 ,i was compelled1 though reluctantly1 to admit that they leave the hive4 ,that their purpose is to meet the drones1 ,i cannot at present contradict4 ,also1 that1 when the queen is once impregnated1 it is operative for life1 7yet it is another anomaly71 as ,i never detected her coming out again for that purpose4 ,what then is the use of the ten thousand drones that never fulfil this important duty8 ,it seems1 indeed1 like a useless waste of labor and honey1 for each stock to rear some twelve or fifteen hundred1 when perhaps but one1 sometimes not any of the whole number is of any use4 ,if the risk is great in the queen's leaving1 we find it arranged admirably in its not being too frequent4 ,a ,,multitude ,,of ,,drones ,,needed4 ,instinct teaches the bee to make the matters left to them as nearly sure as possible4 ,when they want one queen1 they raise half a dozen4 ,if one drone or only half a dozen were reared1 the chances of the queen meeting one in the air would be very much reduced4 ,but when a thousand are in the air instead of one1 the chances are a thousand times multiplied4 ,if a stock casts a swarm1 there is a young queen to be impregnated1 and be got safely back1 or the stock is lost4 ,every time she leaves1 there is a chance of her being lost1 7one in fifteen74 ,if the number of drones was any less than it is1 the queen would have to repeat her excursions in proportion1 before successful4 ,as it is1 some have to leave several times4 ,the chances and consequences are so great1 that on the whole no doubt but it is better to rear a thousand unnecessarily1 than to lack one just in time of need4 ,therefore let us endeavor to be content with the present arrangement1 inasmuch as we could not better it1 and probably had we been consulted1 would have so fixed the thing1 that it would not go at all4 ,but what is the use of the drones in hives that do not swarm1 and do not intend it1 situated in a large room or very large hives8 ,such circumstances seldom produce swarms1 yet as regular as the return of summer1 a brood of drones appear4 ,what are they for8 ,suppose the old queen in such hive dies1 leaving eggs or young larvae1 and a young queen is reared to supply her place4 ,how is she to be impregnated without the drones8 ,perhaps they are taught that whenever they can afford it1 they should have some on hand to be ready for an emergency4 ,i have already said when bees are numerous1 and honey abundant1 they never fail to provide them4 ,i once put a swarm in a glass hive4 ,the queen was a cripple1 having lost one of her posterior legs2 in two months after she was replaced by one young and perfect4 ,here was an instance of drones being needed1 when no intention of swarming was indicated2 the hive was but little more than half full4 ,,the ,,queen ,,liable ,,to ,,be ,,lost ,,in ,,her ,,excursions4 ,this excursion of the queen1 whenever ,i have witnessed it1 always took place a little after the middle of the day1 when the drones were out in the greatest numbers4 ,at such times ,i have seen them leave amid rather more commotion than usual among the workers4 ,i have watched their return1 which varied from three minutes to half an hour1 and seen them hover around their own hive1 apparently in doubt whether they belonged in that1 or the next2 in a few instances they have actually settled on the neighboring hive1 and would have there perished1 but for my assistance in putting them right4 ,,the ,,time ,,when ,,it ,,occurs4 ,thus we see that queens are lost on these occasions from some cause1 and part of them by entering the wrong hive1 perhaps most of them2 if so1 it is another good reason for not packing stocks too close4 ,the hives are very often nearly alike in color and appearance4 ,the queen coming out for the first time in her life1 is no doubt confused by this similarity4 ,the number of such losses in a season has varied3 one year the average was one in nine1 another it was one in thirteen1 and another one in twenty4 ,the time from the first swarm also varies from twelve to twenty days4 ,the inexperienced reader should not forget that it is the old stocks which have cast swarms1 where these accidents happen2 the old queen having left with the first swarm4 ,also all after swarms are liable to the same loss4 ,i would suggest that these have abundant room given between the hives2 if it is necessary to pack close1 let it be the first swarms1 where the old queen has no occasion to leave4 ,having never seen this matter fully discussed1 ,i wish to be somewhat particular1 and flatter myself that ,i shall be able to direct the careful apiarian how to save a few stocks and swarms annually1 that is1 if he keeps many4 ,a few years ago1 ,i wrote an article for the ,albany ,cultivator4 ,a subscriber of that paper told me a year afterwards that he saved two stocks the next summer by the information2 they were worth at least five dollars each1 enough to pay for his paper ten years or more4 ,when a stock casts but one swarm1 the queen having no competitors to interfere with her movements1 will leave in about fourteen days1 if the weather is fair2 but should an after swarm leave1 the oldest of the young queens will probably go with that1 of course3 then1 it must be later before the next is ready3 it may be twenty days1 or even more2 those with after swarms will vary from one to six4 ,it always must occur when no eggs or larvae exist1 and no means left to repair this loss2 a loss it is1 and a serious one2 the bees are in as much trouble as their owner1 and a great deal more1 they seeming to understand the consequences1 and he1 if he knows nothing of the matter1 has no trouble4 ,should he now1 for the first time1 learn the nature of it1 he will at the same time understand the remedy4 ,,indications ,,of ,,the ,,loss4 ,the next morning after a loss of this kind has occurred1 and occasionally at evening1 the bees may be seen running about in the greatest consternation1 outside1 to and fro on the sides4 ,some will fly off a short distance and return2 one will run to another1 and then to another1 still in hopes1 no doubt1 of finding their lost sovereign6 ,a neighboring hive close by1 on the same bench1 will probably receive a portion1 which will seldom resist an accession under such circumstances4 ,all this will be going on while other hives are quiet4 ,towards the middle of the day1 this confusion will be less marked2 but the next morning it will be exhibited again1 though not so plainly1 and cease after the third1 when they become apparently reconciled to their fate4 ,they will continue their labors as usual1 bringing in pollen and honey4 ,here ,i am obliged to differ with writers who tell us that all labor will now cease4 ,i hope the reader will not be deceived by supposing that because the bees are bringing in pollen1 that they must have a queen2 ,i can assure you it is not always the case4 ,,the ,,result4 ,the number of bees will gradually decrease1 and be all gone by the early part of winter1 leaving a good supply of honey1 and an extra quantity of bee-bread1 as before mentioned1 because there has been no young brood to consume it4 ,this is the case when a large family was left at the time of the loss4 ,when but few bees are left1 it is very different2 the combs are unprotected by a covering of bees2 the moth deposits her eggs on them1 and the worms soon finish up the whole4 ,yet the bees from the other stocks will generally first remove the honey4 ,,age ,,of ,,bees ,,indicated4 ,hundreds of bee-keepers lose some of their stocks in this way1 and can assign no reasonable cause4 ,why1 say they1 there wasn't twenty bees in the hive2 it was all full of honey1 or worms1 as the case may be4 ,only a short time before1 it was full of bees2 ,i got three good swarms from it1 and it always had been first rate1 but all at once the bees were gone4 ,i don't understand it6 ,such bee-keepers cannot understand how rapidly a family of bees diminish1 when there is no queen to replenish with young this mortality of the old ones4 ,i doubt whether the largest and best family possibly could be made to exist six months1 without a queen for their renewal1 except1 perhaps1 through the winter4 ,when standing close on one bench1 they are gone sooner than if on separate stands1 as they often join a neighboring hive when they can walk to it4 ,,necessity ,,of ,,care4 ,as this tumult cannot be seen but a few days at most1 it is well--yes1 it is necessary--to make it a duty to glance at the hives at this period after swarming1 every morning2 a glance is sufficient to tell you of the fact4 ,remember to reckon from the date of the first issue2 this occurs when the first royal cells are sealed over1 and is the best criterion as to when the queen will leave4 ,if the first swarm issue and return1 it can make no difference2 reckon from their first issuing4 ,,remedy4 ,when you discover a loss1 first ascertain if there is any after swarm to be expected from another stock1 7by listening for the piping72 if so1 wait till it issues1 and obtain a queen from that for your stock2 even if there is but one1 take it1 and let the bees return2 they would be likely to come out again the next day2 if not1 it is very often no great loss4 ,should no such swarm be indicated1 go to a stock that has cast a first swarm within a week2 smoke it and turn it over1 as before directed1 find a royal cell1 and with a broad knife cut it out1 being careful not to injure it4 ,this must now be secured in the other hive in its natural position1 the lower end free from any obstacle1 that would interfere with the queen leaving it4 ,it will make but little difference whether at the top or bottom1 providing it is secure from falling4 ,i generally introduce it through a hole in the top1 taking care to find one that will allow the cell to pass down between two combs4 ,it being largest at the upper end1 the combs each side will sustain it1 and leave the lower end free4 ,in a few hours the bees will secure it permanently to the combs with wax4 ,this operation cannot be performed in a chamber hive1 as it is impossible to see the arrangement of the combs through the holes4 ,to put it in at the bottom is some more trouble2 the difficulty is1 to fasten it1 and prevent it resting on the end4 ,i have done it as follows3 ,get an old thick piece of dry comb some three inches square2 cut out an inch of the middle4 ,at right angles with this1 in one edge in the centre1 make another to intersect it1 just the size of the cell1 and have the lower end reach into the opening4 ,this comb will keep it in the right position1 and may rest on the floor-board4 ,it can now be put in the hive1 cutting out a piece of comb to make room for it if necessary4 ,soon after such cell is introduced1 the bees are quiet4 ,in a few days it hatches1 and they have a queen as perfect as if it had been one of their own rearing4 ,this queen of course will be necessitated to leave the hive1 and will be just as liable to be lost1 but no more so than others1 and must be watched the same4 ,it is unnecessary to look for a cell in a stock that has cast its first swarm more than a week before1 as they are generally destroyed by that time1 7sometimes short of it17 unless they intend to send out an after swarm4 ,,mark ,,the ,,date ,,of ,,swarms ,,on ,,the ,,hive4 ,should you have so many stocks that you cannot remember the date of each swarm without difficulty1 it is a good plan to mark the date on one side or corner of the hive1 as it issues4 ,you can then tell at once where to look for a cell when wanted4 ,it will sometimes happen that a queen may be lost at the extreme end of the swarming season1 when no other stock contains such cells4 ,i then look around for the poorest stock or swarm that ,i have on hand1 one that ,i can afford to sacrifice1 if it possesses a queen1 to save the one that has sustained this loss2 this is not often the case1 but is sometimes4 ,i have a few times put just bees enough with the queen to keep her in a box1 and kept them for this purpose1 as was mentioned in the last chapter4 ,when introduced1 the bees are generally killed1 but the queen is preserved4 ,,obtaining ,a ,,queen ,,from ,,worker ,,brood4 ,there is yet another method to be adopted1 and that is1 to obtain a piece of brood-comb containing workers' eggs1 or larvae very young4 ,you will generally find it without much trouble1 in a young swarm that is making combs2 the lower ends usually contain eggs2 take a piece from one of the middle sheets1 two or three inches long1 7you will probably use smoke by this time without telling74 ,invert the hive that is to receive it1 put the piece edgewise between the combs1 if you can spread them apart enough for the purpose2 they will hold it there1 and then there will be ample room to make the cells4 ,they will nearly always rear several queens4 ,i have counted nine several times1 which were all they had room for4 ,but yet ,i have very little confidence in such queens1 they are almost certain to be lost4 ,,they ,,are ,,poor ,,dependence4 ,therefore ,i would recommend getting a royal cell whenever it is practical4 ,there is yet another advantage2 you will have a queen ready to lay eggs two or three weeks earlier1 than when they are compelled to commence with the egg4 ,i have put such piece of brood-comb in a small glass box on the top of the hive instead of the bottom1 because it was less trouble1 but in this case the eggs were all removed in a short time2 whether a queen was reared in the hive or not ,i cannot say2 but this ,i know1 ,i never obtained a prolific queen1 after repeated experiments in this way4 ,it would appear that ,i have been more unfortunate with queens reared in this way1 than most experimenters4 ,i have no difficulty to get them formed to all appearance perfect1 but lose them afterwards4 ,now whether this arose from some lack of physical development1 by taking grubs too far advanced to make a perfect change1 or whether they were reared so late in the season1 that most of the drones were destroyed1 and the queen to meet one had to repeat her excursions till lost1 ,i am yet unable to fully determine4 ,to test the first of these questions1 ,i have a few times removed all the larvae from the comb2 leaving nothing but eggs1 that all the food given them might be royal pap1 from the commencement1 and had no better success so far4 ,yet occasionally prolific queens have been reared when ,i could account for their origin in no other way but from worker eggs4 ,but you will find they are not to be depended upon generally4 ,sometimes1 after all our endeavors1 a stock or two will remain destitute of a queen4 ,these1 if they escape the worms1 will generally store honey enough in this section to winter a good family4 ,this will have to be introduced1 of course1 from another hive1 containing a queen2 but this belongs to ,fall management4 ,as respects the time that elapses from the impregnation of the queen till the commencement of egg laying1 ,i cannot tell1 but guess it might be about two or three days4 ,i have driven out the bees twenty-one days after the first swarm1 when no second swarm had issued--the young queen came out on the fourteenth day4 ,i found eggs and some very young larvae4 ,when it is remembered that eggs remain three days before they hatch1 it shows that the first of these must have been deposited some four or five days4 ,when writers tell us the exact time to an hour 7#df or #dh7 from impregnation to laying1 ,i am willing to admit the thing in this case1 but feel just as if ,i would like to ask how they managed to find out the fact2 by what sign they knew when a queen returned from an excursion1 whether she had been successful or not1 in her amours2 or1 whether another effort would have to be made2 and then1 how they managed to know exactly when the first egg was laid4 ,occasionally a queen is lost at other than the swarming season1 averaging about one in forty4 ,it is most frequent in spring2 at least it is generally discovered then4 ,the queen may die in the winter1 and the bees not give us any indications till they come out in spring4 7,occasionally they may all desert the hive1 and join another47 ,if we expect to ascertain when a queen is lost at this season1 we must notice them just before dark on the first warm days--because the mornings are apt to be too cool for any bees to be outside--any unusual stir1 or commotion1 similar to what has been described1 shows the loss4 ,this is the worst time in the year to provide the remedy1 unless there should happen to be some very poor stock containing a queen1 that we might lose any way--then it might be advisable to sacrifice it to save the other1 especially if the last contained all the requisites of a good stock except a queen4 ,some eight or ten1 that ,i have managed in this way1 have given me full satisfaction4 ,i have at other times let them go till the swarming season1 and then procured a queen1 or introduced a small swarm2 at which time they are so reduced as to be worth but little1 even when not affected by the worms4 ,to obviate this loss in this way1 it might be an advantage to transfer the bees to the next stock1 if it was not too full already2 or the bees of the next stock to this4 ,let the age and condition of the combs1 quantity of stores1 c41 decide4 ,,chapter ,,xv4 ,,artificial ,,swarms4 ,,principles ,,should ,,be ,,understood4 ,artificial swarms can be made with safety at the proper season4 ,to the bee-keeper who wishes to increase his stocks1 it will be an advantage to understand some of the principles4 ,i have had some little experience that has led to different conclusions from those of some others4 ,i have seen it stated1 and found the assertion repeated by nearly every writer1 that whenever bees were deprived of their queen1 if they only possessed eggs or young larvae1 they would not fail to rear another1 c4 ,there are numerous instances of their doing this1 but it is not to be depended upon1 especially when left in a hive full of combs1 as the following experiments tend to prove4 ,,some ,,experiments4 ,several years since ,i had a few stocks well supplied with bees1 and every indication of swarming present1 such as clustering out1 c41 but they pertinaciously adhered to the old stock1 through the whole swarming season6 ,others apparently not as well supplied with bees threw off swarms4 ,i had but few stocks1 and was very anxious to increase the number2 but these were provokingly indifferent to my wishes4 ,taking the assertions of these authors for facts1 ,i reasoned thus3 ,in all probability there are eggs enough in each of those stocks4 ,why not drive out a portion of the bees1 with the old queen1 and leave about as many as if a swarm had issued8 ,those left will then raise a queen1 and continue the old stock1 and ,i shall have six instead of the three1 that have been so obstinate4 ,accordingly1 ,i divided each1 examined and found eggs and larvae4 ,of course all must be right4 ,now1 thought ,i1 my stocks can be doubled at least annually4 ,if they do not swarm1 ,i can drive them4 ,,the ,,result ,,unsatisfactory4 ,my swarms prospered1 the old stocks seemed industrious1 bringing in pollen in abundance1 which to me at that time1 was conclusive that they had a queen1 or soon would have4 ,i continued to watch them with much interest1 but somehow1 after a few weeks1 there did not seem to be quite as many bees2 a few days later1 ,i was quite sure there was not4 ,i examined the combs1 and behold there was not a cell containing a young bee of any age1 not even an egg in any one of these old stocks4 ,my visionary anticipations of future success speedily retrograded about this time4 ,i had1 it is true1 my new swarms in condition to winter1 although not quite full2 but the old ones were not1 and nothing was gained4 ,i had some honey1 a great deal of bee-bread and old black comb4 ,had ,i let them alone1 and put on boxes1 ,i should have probably obtained twenty-five or thirty pounds of pure honey from each1 worth five times as much as what ,i did get2 besides1 the old stocks1 even with the old comb1 would have been better supplied with both honey and bees2 altogether much better1 as stocks for wintering4 ,here was a considerable loss1 merely by not understanding the matter4 ,i carefully looked the bees over1 and ascertained to a certainty that neither of them had a queen4 ,i smothered what few there was left in the fall4 ,i then knew of no better way4 ,i had been told that the barbarous use of fire and brimstone was part of the luck2 that a more benevolent system would cause the bees to run out1 c4 ,,further ,,experiments4 ,subsequent to these experiments1 ,i thought perhaps the jarring of the hives in driving might have some effect on the bees1 and prevent their rearing a queen4 ,this idea suggested the dividing hive1 when the division could be made quietly2 but success was yet uncertain4 ,i was told to confine the bees in the old stock twenty-four hours or more1 after driving out a swarm2 this ,i tried1 with no better results4 ,again1 ,i drove out the swarm1 looked out the queen1 and returned her to the old stock1 compelling the new swarm to raise one4 ,to be certain they did so1 ,i constructed a small box about four inches square1 by two in thickness2 the sides glass4 ,in this ,i put the piece of brood-comb containing eggs and larvae1 and then put it on the hive containing the swarm1 having holes for communication1 a cover to keep it dark1 c4 ,they were very sure to rear queens1 but from some cause were lost after they were matured4 ,now1 if others have been more successful in these experiments than myself1 it indicates that some favorable circumstances attended them that did not me4 ,i have not the least doubt but the result will be favorable sometimes4 ,yet from the foregoing1 ,i became satisfied that not one of these methods could be relied upon4 ,instead of constructing a queen's cell1 and then removing the egg or larva to it from another cell1 ,i always found that the cell containing such egg or larva was changed from the horizontal to the perpendicular2 such cells as were in the way below were cut off1 probably using the material in forming one for royalty1 which1 when finished1 contains as much material as fifty or a hundred others4 ,my experiments did not end here4 ,i can now make artificial swarms1 and succeed nine times in ten with the first effort1 and the reader can as easily do the same4 ,it must be in the swarming season1 or as soon as the first regular swarm issues4 ,you want some finished royal cells that any stock having cast a swarm will furnish1 7unless in rare instances1 where they are too far up among the combs to be seen47 ,a ,,successful ,,method4 ,when you are all ready1 take a stock that can spare a swarm2 if bees are on the outside1 raise the hive on wedges1 and drive them in with a little water1 and disturb them gently with a stick4 ,now smoke and invert it1 setting the empty hive over4 ,if the two hives are of one size1 and have been made by a workman1 there will be no chance for the bees to escape1 except the holes in the side2 these you will stop2 7no matter about a sheet tied around it47 ,with a light hammer or stick1 strike the hive a few times lightly1 and then let it remain five minutes4 ,this is very essential1 because most of the bees1 if allowed the opportunity1 will fill themselves with honey after such disturbance4 ,all regular swarms go forth so laden4 ,a supply is necessary when bad weather follows soon after4 ,it is also used in forming wax1 a very necessary article in a new hive4 ,the amount of honey carried out of a stock by a good swarm1 together with the weight of the bees 7which is not much71 will vary from five to eight pounds4 ,this1 allowing time for the bees to fill their sacks1 and supplying the old stock with a royal cell1 ,i believe is entirely original3 the importance of which the reader can judge4 ,,advantages ,,of ,,this ,,method4 ,it is very plain that a queen from such finished cell must be ready to deposit eggs several days sooner than by any other method that we can adopt4 ,it is also clear that if we have a dozen queens depositing eggs by the #ajth of ,june1 that our bees are increasing faster1 on the whole1 than if but half that number are engaged in it for a month later4 ,there is yet another advantage4 ,the sooner a young queen can take the place of the old one in maternal duties1 the less time will be lost in breeding1 the more bees there will be to defend the combs from the moth1 and the surest guaranty for surplus honey4 ,when the bees have filled their sacks1 proceed to drive them into the upper hive by striking the lower one rapidly from five to ten minutes4 ,a loud humming will mark their first movement4 ,when you think half or two-thirds are out1 raise the hive and inspect progress4 ,they are not at all disposed to sting in this stage of proceeding1 even when they escape outside4 ,if full of honey1 they are seldom provoked to resentment4 ,the only care will be not to crush too many that get between the edges of the hives4 ,the loud buzzing is no sign of anger4 ,if your swarm is not large enough1 continue to drive till it is4 ,when done1 the new hive should be set on the stand of the old one4 ,a few minutes will decide whether you have the queen with the swarm1 as they remain quiet3 otherwise uneasy1 and run about1 when it will be necessary to drive again4 ,if both hives are one color1 set the old one two feet in front2 but if of different colors1 a little more4 ,i prefer this position to setting the old stock on one side1 even when there is room2 yet it can make but little difference4 ,should you set it on one side1 let the distance be less4 ,when the old stock is taken much farther than this rule1 all the bees that have marked the location 7and all the old ones will have done so7 will go back to the old stand1 and none but young bees that have never left home will remain4 ,the same will be the case with the new swarm if moved off4 ,it will not do to depend on the old queen keeping them1 as she does when they swarm out naturally4 ,this has been my experience4 ,try it1 reader1 and be satisfied1 by putting either of the hives fifteen or twenty feet distant4 ,before you turn over the old stock1 look among the combs as far as possible for queens' cells2 if any contain eggs or larvae1 you may safely risk their rearing a queen2 but otherwise wait till next morning1 or at least twenty-four hours1 then go to a stock that has cast a swarm1 and obtain a finished royal cell1 as before directed1 and introduce it4 ,you will have a queen here as soon as if it had been left in the original hive1 and no risk of an after swarm1 because there is but one4 ,but when there are young queens in the cells at the time of driving1 after swarms may issue4 ,should a queen-cell be introduced immediately1 it is more liable to be destroyed than after waiting twenty-four hours2 and then is not always safe4 ,after it has had time to hatch1 7which is about eight days after being sealed71 cut it out1 and examine it3 if the lower end is open1 it indicates that a perfect queen has left it1 and all is safe2 but if it is mutilated or open at the side1 it is probable that the queen was destroyed before maturity1 in which case1 another cell will have to be given them4 ,,artificial ,,swarms ,,only ,,safe ,,near ,,the ,,swarming ,,season4 ,by what ,i have said about artificial swarms1 it would appear that it is unsafe at any time but the swarming season2 that is my opinion4 ,it may do a little in advance or a little after1 providing royal cells can be had4 ,by feeding as directed1 7in ,chapter ,,ix47 you may induce a stock to send out a swarm some days in advance of the regular season1 thereby giving you a chance for these cells somewhat early4 ,,sometimes ,,hazardous4 ,to make such swarms at any time when the bees are destroying drones1 would be extremely hazardous1 not only on account of the young queen being impregnated1 but their massacre denotes a scarcity of honey4 ,therefore ,i would advise never to make swarms1 or drive out bees at such periods1 when it can be avoided1 without spare honey is on hand to feed them4 ,,some ,,objections4 ,it has been argued by some1 and with much reason1 that nature is the best guide1 and it is better to let the bees have their own way about swarming--if honey is abundant1 and the stock is in condition to spare a swarm1 their own instincts will teach them to construct royal cells2 if it fails before they are ready1 and the royal brood is destroyed1 it is because the existence of the swarm would be precarious1 and it is best not to issue4 ,i will grant that in many instances it is better4 ,the chance is better for surplus honey2 the stock is quite sure to be in condition to winter2 and some judgment is required to tell when a stock can spare a swarm4 ,but yet1 we are sometimes anxious to increase our stocks to the utmost that safety will allow1 and often have some that can spare a swarm as well as not1 but refuse to leave2 perhaps commence preparations1 and in a few days abandon them4 ,now it is evident that as long as many continue such preparation1 that honey is sufficiently abundant to put the safety of the swarm beyond hazard2 some stocks will swarm while these others just as good1 7that had abandoned it before7 and have not now begun again1 to be in time before a partial failure of honey1 and some may not have commenced in season4 ,,natural ,,and ,,artificial ,,swarms ,,equally ,,prosperous4 ,i can see no difference in artificial or natural swarms of equal size1 at the same time4 ,by taking the matter in time into our own hands1 with the rules given1 we make a sure thing of it1 that is1 we are sure to get the swarms1 when if left to the bees it would be uncertain1 and no greater risk afterwards than with natural issues4 ,,this ,,matter ,,too ,,often ,,delayed4 ,i am aware that this matter will be apt to be put off too long2 wait and see if they don't swarm1 will be the motto of too many1 and when the season is over1 drive them4 ,perhaps a good swarm has set outside the hive1 all through the best of the honey season1 and done nothing1 while they could have half filled a hive2 but this is all lost now1 as well as the best chances for getting cells4 ,let me impress the necessity of doing it in season1 when it will pay4 ,if you intend to have a swarm from every stock that can spare one1 begin when nature points out the proper time1 which is1 when the regular ones begin to issue4 ,it must1 indeed1 be a poor season when there are none4 ,,is ,,the ,,age ,,of ,,the ,,queen ,,important8 ,there is another object effected in this way1 considered by some apiarians as very important4 ,it is the change of the queens in the old stock4 ,a young queen is thought to be much more prolific than an old one4 ,they even recommend keeping none over two or three years old1 and give directions how they may be renewed4 ,but as ,i have been unable to discover any difference in relation to the age in this respect1 ,i shall not at present take much time to discuss it4 ,it is well enough1 when we can take our choice without trouble1 to preserve a young queen4 ,when we consider that there are but few queens but what will deposit three times as many eggs in a season as are matured1 it looks as if it would hardly pay to take much trouble to change them4 ,at what time the queen becomes barren from old age1 ,i presume has never yet been fully determined4 ,a friend of mine has had a stock in a large room eight years1 that has never swarmed1 and is still prosperous6 ,i think it very probable that this queen will gradually decay1 and possibly become barren1 some weeks before she dies2 if so1 this stock will soon die off4 ,a few such cases will probably occur in swarming hives1 perhaps one in fifty1 but generally such old and feeble queens are lost when they leave with the swarm1 especially in windy weather4 ,as long as they are able to go with the swarm1 and sometimes when they are not1 ,i have found them sufficiently prolific for all purposes4 ,i would rather risk their fecundity1 and hive the swarm1 than to allow the bees to return to the parent stock1 and wait eight or nine days for a young queen to mature4 ,a great many will remain idle1 even if there is room to work in the boxes4 ,,chapter ,,xvi4 ,,pruning4 ,notwithstanding ,i have given the method of pruning in the chapter on hives1 7page #bc1 ,chapter ,,ii47 it will be necessary to give the tyro in bee-culture a few more particulars4 ,the season for doing it is of importance4 ,,different ,,opinions ,,as ,,to ,,time4 ,the month of ,march has been recommended by several2 others prefer ,april1 ,august1 or ,september4 ,here1 as usual1 ,i shall have to differ from them all1 preferring still another period1 for which ,i offer my reasons1 supposing1 of course1 that the reader is conscious of a freeman's privilege1 that is1 to adopt whatever method he thinks proper1 on this1 as on any other point4 ,,another ,,time ,,preferred4 ,there is but one period from ,february till ,october1 when prosperous stocks are free from young brood in the combs4 ,if combs are taken out when occupied1 there must be a loss of all the young bees they contain2 which may be avoided4 ,the old queen leaves with the first swarm2 all the eggs she leaves in the worker-cells will be matured in about twenty-one days1 consequently this is the time to clear out the old combs with the least waste4 ,a few drones will be found in the cells1 that would require a few days more to hatch1 but these are of no account4 ,also a few very young larvae and some eggs may be sometimes found1 the product of the young queen2 these few must be wasted1 but as the bees have expended no labor upon them as yet1 it is better to sacrifice these than the greater number left by her mother1 which have consumed their portion of food2 the bees have sealed them up1 and now only require the necessary time to mature1 to make a valuable addition to the stock4 ,,should ,,not ,,be ,,delayed4 ,should this operation be put off for a time much longer than three weeks1 the young queen will so fill the combs again as to make it a serious loss4 ,therefore1 ,i wish to urge strongly attention to this point at the proper season4 ,if you think it unimportant to mark the date of your first swarms for the purposes mentioned in another place1 it will be found very convenient here1 for those that need pruning4 ,it is also recommended by some1 to take only a part1 say one-third or half1 in a season2 thereby taking two or three years to renew the combs4 ,this is advisable only when the family is very small4 ,as this space made by pruning cannot be filled without wax and labor1 our surplus honey will be proportionate to its extent4 ,now suppose we take out half the old combs1 and get half a yield of box honey this year1 and the same next1 or make a full operation of it and get none this year1 and a full one next4 ,what is the difference8 ,there is none in point of honey1 but some in trouble1 and that is in favor of a full operation at once4 ,we have to go through with about the same trouble to get one-third or half as to take the whole4 ,,objection ,,to ,,pruning4 ,the objection to this mode of renewing combs generally1 will be the fear of getting stung4 ,but ,i can assure you there is but little danger1 not as much as to walk among the hives in a warm day4 ,only begin right1 use the smoke1 and work carefully1 without pinching them1 and you will escape unhurt generally4 ,,stocks ,,pruned ,,now ,,are ,,better ,,for ,,winter4 ,besides the advantage of saving a large brood by pruning at this season1 such stocks will usually refill before fall1 and are much better for wintering1 which is not the case when it is done later4 ,we must of necessity then waste the brood1 and have a large space unoccupied with combs through the winter4 ,but few combs can then be made1 and those few must be at the expense of their winter stores1 unless we resort to feeding4 ,these objections apply with greater force to pruning in ,march or ,april4 ,the loss of brood is of much more consequence now1 than in mid-summer1 or even later1 and a space to be filled with combs is a serious disadvantage4 ,it is important that the bees should devote their whole attention now to rearing brood1 and be ready to cast their swarms as early as possible4 ,one early swarm is worth two late ones4 ,suppose a stock1 instead of collecting food and nursing its young1 is compelled to expend its honey and labor in secreting wax and constructing combs before it can proceed with breeding advantageously1 it must of necessity be some weeks later4 ,further1 ,i have always found it best to have the bees out of the way1 during this operation4 ,it will be found much more difficult to drive the bees out of a hive in the cool weather of ,march or ,april1 than in summer1 as they seem unwilling to shift their warm quarters and go into a cold hive4 ,it is presumed the reader will bear in mind the disadvantages already given of too frequently renewing combs2 the little value of combs for storing honey1 for our use1 after being once used for breeding2 the necessity of the bees using them as long as they possibly will answer2 and not compel them to be filling the hive1 when they might be storing honey of the purest quality in boxes1 c4 ,vide remarks on this subject on page #bb1 ,chapter ,,ii4 ,,chapter ,,xvii4 ,,diseased ,,brood4 ,this1 like many other chapters in this work1 is probably new1 as ,i1 never saw one thus headed4 ,a few newspaper discussions are about all that have yet appeared on this subject4 ,,not ,,generally ,,understood4 ,this disease is probably of recent origin4 ,mr4 ,miner1 it appears1 knew nothing of it until he moved from ,long ,island to ,oneida ,county1 in this ,state4 ,mr4 ,weeks1 in a communication to the ,n4,e4 ,farmer1 says1 ,since the potato rot commenced1 ,i have lost one-fourth of my stocks annually1 by this disease2 at the same time adds his fears1 that this race of insects will become extinct from this cause1 if not arrested4 7,perhaps ,i ought to mention1 that he speaks of it as attacking the chrysalis instead of the larva2 but as every thing else about it agrees exactly1 there is but little1 doubt of its being all one thing47 ,,my ,,own ,,experience4 ,my first experience will probably go back to a date beyond many others2 it is almost twenty years since the first case was noticed4 ,i had kept bees but four or five years when ,i discovered it in one of my best stocks2 in fact1 it was ,no4 #a in ,may and first of ,june4 ,it cast no swarm through the summer2 and now1 instead of being crowded with bees1 it contained but very few2 so few1 that ,i dared not attempt to winter it4 ,what was the matter8 ,i had then never dreamed of ascertaining the condition of a stock while there were bees in the way1 but was like the unskilful physician who is obliged to wait for the death of his patient1 that he may dissect and discover the cause4 ,i accordingly consigned what few bees there were to the brimstone pit4 ,,description ,,of ,,disease4 ,a post mortem examination revealed the following circumstances3 ,nine-tenths of the breeding-cells were found to contain young bees in the larva state1 stretched out at full length1 sealed over1 dead1 black1 putrid1 and emitting a disagreeable stench4 ,now here was one link in the chain of cause and effect4 ,i learned why there was a scarcity of bees in the hive4 ,what should have constituted their increase1 had died in the cells2 none of them were removed1 consequently but few cells1 where any bees could be matured1 were left4 ,,the ,,cause ,,uncertain4 ,but when ,i attempted the next link in the chain 7to wit7 ,what caused the death of this brood just at this stage of development8 ,i was obliged to stop4 ,not the least satisfaction could be obtained4 ,all inquiries among the bee-keepers of my acquaintance were met with profound ignorance4 ,they had never heard of it6 ,no work on bees that ,i consulted ever mentioned it4 ,subsequently1 ,i had more stocks in the same situation4 ,i found1 whenever the disease existed to any extent1 that the few bees matured were insufficient to replace those that were lost2 that the colony rapidly declined1 and never afterwards cast a swarm6 ,,remedial ,,experiments4 ,as for remedies1 ,i tried pruning out all those combs containing brood1 leaving only such as contained honey1 and let the bees construct new for breeding4 ,it was no use1 these new combs were invariably filled with diseased brood6 ,the only thing effectual was to drive out the bees1 into an empty hive4 ,in this way1 when done in season1 ,i generally succeeded in rearing a healthy stock4 ,but here was a loss of all surplus honey1 and a swarm or two that might have been obtained from a healthy one4 ,,public ,,inquiry ,,and ,,answers4 ,i had so many cases of the kind1 that ,i became somewhat alarmed1 and made inquiry through the ,cultivator1 7an agricultural paper17 as to a cause1 and remedy1 offering a reward for one that would not fail when thoroughly tested1 c4 ,mr4 ,weeks1 in answer1 said1 that cold weather in spring chilling the brood was the cause4 7,this was several years prior to his article in the ,n4,e4 ,farmer47 ,another gentleman said1 dead bees and filth that accumulated during winter1 when suffered to remain in the spring1 was the cause4 ,a few years after1 another correspondent appeared in the ,cultivator1 giving particulars of his experience1 proving very conclusively to himself and many others1 that cold was the cause4 ,having mislaid the paper containing his article1 ,i will endeavor to quote correctly from memory4 ,he had three swarms issue in one day2 the weather during the day changed from very hot to the other extreme1 producing frost in many places the next morning4 ,these swarms had left but few bees in the old stocks1 and the cold forced them up among the combs for mutual warmth2 the brood near the bottom1 thus left without bees to protect it with animal heat1 became chilled1 and the consequence was diseased larvae4 ,he then reasoned thus3 ,if the eggs of a fowl1 at any time near the end of incubation1 become chilled from any cause1 it stops all further development4 ,bees are developed by continued heat1 on the same principle1 and a chill produces the same effect1 c42 afterwards1 other swarms issued under precisely similar circumstances2 but these old stocks were covered with a blanket through the night1 which enabled the bees to keep at the bottom of the hive4 ,in a few days1 enough were hatched to render this trouble unnecessary4 ,these last remained healthy4 ,he further says1 that last spring was the first time ,i ever knew them to become diseased before swarming had thinned the population4 ,the weather was remarkably pleasant through ,april4 ,the bees obtained great quantities of pollen and honey1 and by this means extended their brood further than usual at this season4 ,subsequent chilly weather in ,may1 caused the bees to desert a portion of brood1 which were destroyed by the chill4 ,now this is reasoning from cause to effect very consistently4 ,,answers ,,not ,,satisfactory4 ,had ,i no experience further than this1 ,i should1 perhaps1 rest satisfied as to the cause1 and should endeavor to apply the remedy4 ,several other writers have appeared in different papers1 on this subject1 and nearly all who assign a cause have given this one as the most probable4 ,now ,i have known the chrysalis in a few stocks to be chilled and destroyed by a sudden turn of cold weather1 yet these were removed by the bees soon after1 and the stocks remained healthy4 ,to me the cause assigned appears inadequate to produce all the results with the larvae4 ,after close1 patient observation of fifteen years1 ,i have never yet been wholly satisfied that any one instance among my bees1 was thus produced4 ,a ,,cause ,,suggested4 ,we are all familiar to some extent with the contagious diseases of the human family1 such as small-pox1 whooping-cough1 and measles1 and their rapid spread from a given point1 c4 ,we must also admit that some cause or causes1 adequate to the effect1 must have produced the first case4 ,to contagion1 then1 ,i would attribute the spread of this disease of our bees1 at least nineteen cases in twenty4 ,i will admit1 if you please1 that one stock in twenty or fifty may be somewhat affected by a chill to a small extent4 ,it is only a portion of the brood that is in danger--only such as have been sealed over1 and before they have progressed to the chrysalis state1 are attacked4 ,how many then can there be in a hive at any one time1 in just the right stage of development to receive the fatal chill8 ,of course there will be some2 but they should be confined to the cells near the bottom1 where the bees had left them exposed4 ,these should be all2 and these few would never seriously damage the stock4 ,why then does this disease1 when thoroughly started1 spread so rapidly throughout all the combs in the hive8 ,will it be said that the chill is repeated every few days through the summer8 ,or will it be admitted that something else may continue it8 ,i think there must be other causes1 besides the chill1 even to start it1 in most cases4 ,as our practice will be in accordance with the view we take of this matter1 and the result of our course will be somewhat important1 ,i will give some of the reasons that have led to this conclusion4 ,,reasons ,,for ,,the ,,opinion4 ,for instance1 ,i had all the bees of a good swarm leave the hive in ,march2 after flying a time1 they united with another good stock1 making double the usual number of bees at this season2 enough to keep the brood sufficiently warm at any time2 if other stocks with half or a quarter of the number could4 ,by the middle of ,june1 the bees were much reduced1 and had not cast a swarm4 ,it was examined1 and the brood was found badly diseased4 ,my best and most populous stocks1 in spring1 are just as liable1 and ,i might add more so1 than smaller or weaker families4 ,i have had two large swarms unite1 and were hived together1 that were diseased the next autumn4 ,these cases prove strongly1 if not conclusively1 that animal heat is not the only requisite4 ,the fact that when ,i had pruned out all affected comb from a diseased stock1 and left honey in the top and outside pieces1 and the bees constructed new for breeding1 and the brood in such were invariably affected1 though only a few at first1 and increasing as the combs were extended2 led me to suppose that it was a contagious disease1 and the virus was contained in the honey4 ,some of it had been left in these stocks1 and very probably the bees had fed it to the brood4 ,to test this principle still further1 ,i drove all the bees from such diseased stocks1 strained the honey1 and fed it to several young healthy swarms soon after being hived4 ,when examined a few weeks after1 every one1 without an exception1 had caught the contagion4 ,here then is a clue to the cause of this disease spreading1 whether we have its origin or not4 ,we will now see if we can trace it through1 if there is any consistency in its transfer from one stock to another4 ,,cause ,,of ,,its ,,spreading4 ,suppose one stock has caught the infection1 but a small portion of the brood is dead4 ,in the heat of the hive1 it soon becomes putrid2 other cells adjoining with larvae of the right age are soon in the same condition4 ,all the breeding combs in the hive become one putrid mass1 with an exception1 perhaps1 of one in ten1 twenty or a hundred1 that may perfect a bee4 ,thus the increase of bees is not enough to replace the old ones that are continually dying off4 ,it is plain1 therefore1 that this stock must soon dwindle down to a very small family4 ,now let a scarcity of honey occur in the fields1 this poor stock cannot be properly guarded1 and is easily plundered of its contents by the others4 ,honey is taken that is in close proximity to dead bodies1 corrupting by thousands1 creating a pestilential vapor1 of which it has probably absorbed a portion4 ,the seeds of destruction are by this means carried into healthy stocks4 ,in a short time1 these in turn fall victims to the scourge2 and soon dwindle away1 when some other strong stock is able to carry off their stores2 and only stop1 perhaps1 at the last stock6 ,the moth is ever ready with her burden of eggs1 which she now without hindrance deposits directly on the combs4 ,in a short time the worms finish up the whole business1 and are judged guilty of the whole charge2 merely because they are found carrying out effects that speedily follow such causes4 ,let the reader who doubts this theory1 simply strain out honey1 vitiated in this way1 and feed it to a few stocks or swarms1 that are healthy2 and if they escape1 communicate the fact to the public4 ,but should he become satisfied that such honey is poison to his bees1 he will with me1 and all others interested1 wish to stop this growing evil4 ,,not ,,easily ,,detected ,,at ,,first4 ,it is very difficult to detect the first hundred or two that die in a stock4 ,but when nine-tenths of the breeding cells hold putrid larvae1 there is but very little trouble in making out a correct diagnosis4 ,the bees are few and inactive4 ,when passing the hive our olfactories are saluted with a nauseous effluvia1 arising from this corrupting mass4 ,now1 if we wish1 or expect to escape1 the most severe penalty1 our neglect must never allow this extent of progression before such a stock is removed4 ,therefore1 we must watch symptoms--ascertain the presence of the disease at the earliest moment possible4 ,,symptoms ,,to ,,be ,,observed4 ,as no part of the breeding season is exempt1 the stocks should be carefully observed during spring1 and fore part of summer1 relative to increase of bees4 ,when one or more is much behind others in this respect1 make an examination immediately4 7,i would here urge again the convenience of the simple1 common hive1 over those more complicated1 or suspended1 and difficult to turn over4 ,in one case we might make an examination in season2 in the other1 too much trouble and difficulty might cause it to be put off too long47 ,the hive must be inverted1 and the bees smoked out of the way4 ,our attention is to be directed to the breeding cells2 with a sharp-pointed knife1 proceed to cut off the ends of some of them that appear to be the oldest2 bearing in mind that young bees are always white1 until some time after they take the chrysalis state4 ,therefore1 if a larva is found of a dark color1 it is dead6 ,should a dozen such be found1 the stock should be condemned at once1 and all the bees driven into an empty hive4 7,the directions for this have been given1 see page #ca47 ,if honey should be scarce1 at the time1 they should be fed4 ,,scalding ,,the ,,honey ,,to ,,destroy ,,the ,,poison ,,for ,,feeding4 ,the honey from the old hive may be used1 if you will only first destroy the virus4 ,this1 ,i have ascertained1 may be done by scalding3 add a half-pint of water to about ten lbs42 stir it well1 and heat it to the boiling point1 and carefully remove all the scum4 ,stocks in which the disease has not progressed too far1 will generally swarm4 ,,when ,,to ,,examine ,,stocks ,,that ,,have ,,swarmed4 ,three weeks from the first swarm1 will be the time to examine them4 ,i make it a rule to inspect all my stocks at this period4 ,it is easily done now1 as about all the healthy brood 7except drones7 should be matured in that time4 ,by perseverance in these rules1 ,i allow no stocks to dwindle away until they are plundered by others4 ,if all my neighbors were equally careful1 this disease would probably soon disappear4 ,this is like one careless farmer allowing a noxious weed to mature seeds1 to be wafted by winds on the lands of a careful neighbor1 who must fortify his mind to continual vigilance1 or endure the injury of a foul pest4 ,so with the successful apiarian2 in sections where the disease has appeared 7it has not in all71 he must be continually on the watch2 it is the price of success4 ,,care ,,in ,,selecting ,,stock ,,hives ,,for ,,winter4 ,again1 after the breeding season is over1 in the fall1 every stock should be thoroughly inspected1 and all diseased ones condemned for stock hives4 ,it is better to do it1 even if it should take the last one4 ,it would pay much better to procure others instead1 that are healthy4 ,persons wishing to eat the honey from such hives1 will experience no bad effects from it1 if they are careful to remove all the dead brood1 as they take it out of the hive4 ,the greatest distance that ,i ever knew bees to go1 and plunder a defenceless stock of its contents1 was three-fourths of a mile4 ,very likely they would go farther on some occasions1 but not often4 ,,accusations ,,not ,,always ,,right4 ,careless bee-keepers1 when their hives are thus robbed1 feel regret1 or are more often vexed at somebody--at the result of their carelessness4 ,the person1 keeping most bees in a neighborhood1 must expect to be accountable for all effects of their ignorance1 mismanagement1 or carelessness1 and consequent bad luck2 when all the honey thus obtained1 probably carries with it more mischief than can be eradicated in a twelvemonth1 thereby giving the real cause of complaint to the other party4 ,,chapter ,,xviii4 ,,irritability ,,of ,,bees4 ,keeping bees good-natured1 offers a pretty fair subject for ridicule3 it seems rather too absurd to teach a bee anything6 ,nevertheless1 it is worth while to think of it a little4 ,most of us know that by injudicious training1 horses1 cattle1 dogs1 c41 may be rendered extremely vicious4 ,if there is no perceptible analogy between these and bees1 experience proves that they may be made ten times more irritable than they naturally would be4 ,,their ,,means ,,of ,,defence4 ,nature has armed them with means to defend their stores1 and provided them with combativeness sufficient to use them when necessary4 ,this could not be bettered4 ,if they were powerless to repel an enemy1 there are a thousand lazy depredators1 man not excepted1 who would prey upon the fruits of their industry1 leaving them to starve4 ,had it been so arranged1 this industrious insect would probably have long since been extinct4 ,,time ,,of ,,greatest ,,irritability4 ,the season of their greatest caution1 in this section1 is ,august1 during the flowers of buckwheat4 ,it is then their stores are greatest4 ,as soon as a stock is pretty well supplied with this world's goods1 like some bipeds1 they become very haughty1 proud1 aristocratic1 and insolent4 ,a great many things are construed into insults1 that in their days of adversity would pass unnoticed2 but now it is becoming and proper for their honor to show a just resentment4 ,it behooves us1 therefore1 to ascertain what are considered insults4 ,,proper ,,conduct4 ,first1 all quick motions1 such as running1 striking1 c41 about them1 are noticed4 ,if our movements among them are slow1 cautious1 humble1 and respectful1 we are often let to pass unmolested1 having manifested a becoming deportment4 ,yet the exhalations from some persons appear very offensive1 as they attack them much sooner than others2 though ,i apprehend there is not so great a difference as many suppose4 ,whenever an attack is made1 and a sting follows1 the venom thus imparted to the air1 if by only one1 is perceived by others at some distance1 which will immediately approach the scene1 and more stings are likely to follow than if the first had not been4 ,,how ,,to ,,proceed ,,when ,,attacked4 ,striking them down renders them ten times more furious4 ,not in the least daunted1 they return to the attack4 ,not the least show of fear is perceived4 ,even after losing their sting1 they obstinately refuse to desist4 ,it is much the best way to walk as quietly as possible to the shelter of some bush1 or to the house4 ,they will seldom go inside of the door4 ,a ,,person',s ,,breath ,,offensive1 ,,and ,,other ,,causes4 ,the breath of a person inside the hive1 or among them1 when clustered outside1 is considered in the tribunals of their insect wisdom as the greatest indignity4 ,a sudden jar1 sometimes made by carelessly turning up the hive1 is another4 ,after being once thoroughly irritated in this way1 they remember it for weeks1 and are continually on the alert2 the moment the hive is touched1 they are ready to salute a person's face4 ,when slides of tin or zinc are used to cut off the communication between the hives and boxes1 some of the bees are apt to be crushed or cut in two4 ,this they remember1 and retaliate1 as occasion offers2 and it may be when quietly walking in the apiary4 ,,their ,,manner ,,of ,,attack4 ,i must disagree with any one who says we always have warning before being stung4 ,i have been stung a few times myself4 ,two-thirds of them were received without the least notice--the first intimation was the blow4 ,at other times1 when fully determined on vengeance1 ,i have had them strike my hat and remain a moment endeavoring to effect their object4 ,in this case1 ,i have warning to hold down my face to protect it from the next attempt1 which is quite sure to follow4 ,as they fly horizontally1 the face held in that position is not so liable to be attacked4 ,when they are not so thoroughly charged with anger1 they often approach in merely a threatening attitude1 buzzing around very provokingly for several minutes in close proximity to our ears and face1 apparently to ascertain our intentions4 ,if nothing hostile or displeasing is perceived1 they will generally leave2 but should a quick motion or offensive breath offend them1 the dreaded result is almost sure to follow4 ,too many people are apt to take these threatening manifestations as positive intentions to sting4 ,when these things can be quietly endured1 and at the same time leave their vicinity1 it generally ends peaceably4 ,they never make an attack while away from their home in quest of honey1 or on their return1 until they have entered the hive4 ,it is only in the hive and its vicinity that we expect to meet this irascible temperament1 which should not be allowed1 or at least may be subdued in a great measure1 if not entirely1 by doing things in a quiet manner1 and1 by the use of tobacco smoke4 ,any person having the care of bees should go armed with this powerful weapon4 ,as bees are not much affected with smoke1 while flying in the air1 but will have their own way1 we must take them in the hive as the place to teach them a proper deportment6 ,those who are accustomed to smoking will find a pipe or segar very convenient here4 ,but such as are not would do better1 perhaps1 not to learn a bad habit4 ,i will therefore give a simple substitute4 ,,smoker ,,described4 ,get a tube of tin about five-eighths of an inch diameter1 five or six inches in length2 make stoppers of wood to fit both ends1 two and a half or three inches long2 with your nail-gimlet make a hole through them lengthwise3 when put together it should be about ten inches4 ,the ends may be tapered4 ,on one end leave a notch1 that it may be held with the teeth1 which is the most convenient way1 as you will often want to use both hands3 it is also always ready1 without any trouble to blow through1 and also to keep the tobacco burning4 ,when ready to operate1 fill the tube with tobacco1 ignite it1 and put in the stoppers2 by blowing through it you keep the tobacco burning while the smoke issues at the other end4 ,,effect ,,of ,,tobacco ,,smoke4 ,we can now subdue these combative propensities1 or render them harmless2 turn their anger to submission1 and make them yield their treasures to the hands of the spoiler without an effort of resistance6 ,when once overpowered1 they seem to lose all knowledge of their strength1 and no slave can be more submissive6 ,after the effects of the smoke have passed off1 their former animosity will return4 ,should any resentment be shown on raising a hive1 blow in the smoke2 they immediately retreat1 begging pardon4 ,after a few times1 they learn it's no use1 and allow an inspection4 ,if you wish to take off a box1 raise it just enough to blow under the smoke2 there is no trouble2 you can replace it with another2 the bees are kept out of the way with a little more smoke1 and no anger created about it to be remembered4 ,those in the box are all submission2 they can be carried away and handled as you please1 without a possibility of getting them irritated1 until they once more get home1 and then are much more amiable than if the box had been taken without the smoke4 ,they seem to forget1 or do not realize anything of the transaction4 ,when bees are to be transferred to a new hive1 it is unnecessary to be so very particular about the escape of a single bee2 no fears need be entertained of such as get out4 ,in driving1 the loud humming indicates their submission2 the upper hive can then be safely raised at any time4 ,after being thus driven out1 they may be pushed about with impunity1 and still be quiet6 ,in short1 by using smoke on all occasions where they would be likely to be disturbed without it by our meddling with them1 it has a tendency to keep dormant their combative propensities4 ,when these have never been aroused1 there is much less danger from their attacks while walking or looking among them4 ,any one wishing further proof1 ,i would recommend the experiment of managing one year with smoke1 and the next without4 ,,sting ,,described4 ,their sting1 as it appears to the naked eye1 is but a tiny instrument of war2 so small1 indeed1 that its wound would pass unheeded by all the larger animals1 if it was not for the poison introduced at the same instant4 ,it has been described as being composed of three parts1 a sheath and two darts4 ,both the darts are furnished with small points or barbs like a fishhook1 that hold it when introduced into the flesh2 the bee being compelled to leave it behind4 ,,does ,,its ,,loss ,,prove ,,fatal8 ,it is said to the bee itself this mutilation proves fatal4 ,this last is another assertion for fact1 so often repeated1 that perhaps we might as well admit it2 seeing the difficulty we should have in disproving it4 ,only think of the impossibility of keeping our eye1 for five minutes1 on a bee that is flying about1 after it has left its sting4 ,yet there are some persons so very particular about what they receive as facts1 that they would require this very unreasonable thing of watching a bee till it died1 before they could be positively sure that the loss of its sting caused its death4 7,it is much easier to guess47 ,they might even take analogy1 and say that other insects possess so little sensation that they have been known to recover after much more extensive mutilation--that beetles have lived for months under circumstances that would have instantly killed some of the higher animals--that spiders often reproduce a leg1 even lobsters can replace a lost claw1 c4 ,i have put off describing any protection against their attacks1 because ,i wish to get up a little more courage in our doings among them4 ,yet it is folly to expect all will manage successfully without something for defence4 ,,means ,,of ,,protection4 ,the face and hands are most exposed2 for the latter1 thick woollen mittens or gloves are best2 the sting is generally left when thrust into a leather glove4 ,for the face procure one and a half yards of thin muslin or calico1 sew the ends together1 the upper end gathered on a string small enough to prevent it slipping over the head when put on4 ,an arm-hole is to be cut out on each side2 below is another string to gather it close to the body4 ,as ,i do not expect you to work in the dark1 we will have a place cut out in front1 and a piece of coarse lace inserted2 that which will just prevent a bee from passing1 is best1 as it gives us a better chance to see4 ,to keep it from falling against the face1 a wire is bent around and sewed fast4 ,any person that knows how to put on a shirt will manage this4 ,when thus equipped1 and other garments of proper thickness1 the most timid ought not to hesitate to venture among them1 when necessary4 ,i cannot avoid cautioning you again to beware of irritating your bees1 until this protection is necessary1 as it is a rather bad state of things4 ,with this on1 you cannot conveniently use any smoke4 ,to put this on and off is considerable trouble1 and every time you go among them1 if you have to resort to this1 ,i fear some necessary duties will be neglected4 ,whenever a partial protection will do1 ,i would recommend a handkerchief2 it is always at hand1 and can be put on in a moment2 throw it over the head1 letting the ends fall around the neck and shoulders1 covering all but the face4 ,the hat can come on over it4 ,as for the face1 whenever a bee comes around in a menacing attitude1 hold it down--unless he stings at the first onset1 there is not much risk4 ,,remedies ,,for ,,stings4 ,concerning the remedies for stings1 it is a hard matter to tell which is the best4 ,there is so much difference in the effect in different individuals1 and the different parts of the body1 as well as the depth the sting reaches1 that a great variety of remedies are recommended4 ,a person is slightly stung1 and applies something as an antidote2 the effect of the sting is trifling1 as perhaps it would have been without anything1 and the medicine is forthwith extolled as a sovereign remedy4 ,i have been thus deceived2 when slightly stung applied what ,i thought cured in one case1 when in the next the sting might have penetrated deeper1 or in some other place1 and the remedy would seem to have no effect4 ,for the last few years1 ,i have not made any application whatever for myself1 and the effect is no worse1 nor even as bad as formerly4 7,this1 ,i am told1 is because the system is hardened1 and now can resist or throw off the effects47 ,among the remedies recommended1 are saleratus and water1 salt and water1 soft-soap mixed with salt1 a raw onion cut in two and one-half applied1 mud or clay mixed pretty wet and changed often1 tobacco wet and rubbed thoroughly to get at the strength1 and cold water constantly applied4 ,to cure the smart1 the application of tobacco is strongly urged1 and cold water is spoken of with equal favor to prevent the swelling4 ,when stung in the throat1 drinking often of salt and water is said will prevent serious consequences4 ,whether any of these remedies are applied or not1 ,i suppose it is unnecessary to say that the sting should be pulled out as soon as practicable4 ,,chapter ,,xix4 ,,enemies ,,of ,,bees4 ,among the enemies of bees1 there are included rats1 mice1 birds1 toads1 and insects4 ,,are ,,they ,,all ,,guilty8 ,but some of these are probably clear of any actual mischief4 ,i strongly suspect that the spirit of destructiveness with many people is altogether too active4 ,there are some farmers1 with this principle predominant1 so short-sighted1 that if it was in their power they would destroy a whole class of birds1 because some of them had picked a few cherries1 or dug out a few hills of corn1 when1 at the same time1 they are indebted to their activity in devouring worms1 insects1 c41 that would otherwise have destroyed entire crops6 ,it will be well1 therefore1 before condemnation1 to see if on the whole we are to be gainers or losers by an indiscriminate slaughter1 without judge or jury4 ,,rats ,,and ,,mice4 ,rats and mice are never troublesome1 except in cold weather4 ,the entrances of all hives standing out are too small to admit a rat4 ,it is only when in the house that much damage need be apprehended4 ,they appear to be fond of honey1 and when it is accessible will eat several pounds in a short time4 ,mice will often enter the hive when standing on the bench1 and make extensive depredations4 ,sometimes1 after eating a space in the combs1 they will there make their nest4 ,the animal heat created by the bees will make a snug1 warm place for winter quarters4 ,there are two kinds3 one the common class1 belonging to the house2 the other called deer-mouse--the under side perfectly white1 the back much lighter than the other kind4 ,the latter seems to be particularly fond of the bees1 while the first appears to relish the honey4 ,whether they take bees that are alive1 or only such as are already dead1 ,i cannot say4 ,only a part of the bee is eaten2 and if we take the fragments left to judge of the number consumed1 the circumstance will go some ways to prove the sacrifice of quite a number4 ,whether bees or honey is wasted1 a little care to prevent their depredations is well worthy of bestowal4 ,as rats and mice have so long since been condemned and sentenced for being a universal plague1 and without a redeeming trait1 ,i will say nothing in their favor1 and am perfectly willing they shall be hanged till dead4 ,,are ,,all ,,the ,,birds ,,guilty8 ,but for some of the birds accused of preying upon bees1 ,i would say a word4 ,,king-,,bird--,,one ,,word ,,in ,,his ,,favor4 ,the king-bird stands at the head of the list of depredators6 ,with a fair trial he will be found guilty1 though not so heinously criminal as many suppose4 ,i think we shall find him guilty of taking only the drones4 ,in the afternoon of a fair day he may be seen perched upon some dry branch of a shrub or tree near the apiary1 watching for his victims1 occasionally darting to seize them4 ,i have shot him down and examined his crop1 after seeing him devour a goodly number2 but in every instance the bees were so crushed to pieces1 that it was impossible to distinguish workers from drones4 ,we are told of great numbers of workers being counted4 ,it may be so1 or it may be thus represented by a spice of prejudice4 ,i have found the brutal gratification of taking life so strong with some1 that a natural antipathy is allowed to take the place of justice1 and a proper defence is not allowed in such cases where the suffering party has not the power to enforce it4 ,if he was satisfied with workers as well as drones1 why does he not visit the apiary long before noon1 and fill his crop with them8 ,but instead1 he waits till afternoon for the drones2 and if none are flying1 he watches quietly till one appears1 although workers may be out by hundreds continually4 ,if the question is asked1 how they tell the difference in the two kinds of bees1 ,i might suggest that instinct has taught most animals the proper kind of food1 and might direct the birds in this case4 ,if it was not sufficient1 a little experience in catching bees provided with stings1 might impart the important difference1 in one or two lessons4 ,i once had a chicken that knew the difference by some means1 and would stand by the hive and devour every drone1 the moment it touched the board1 while the workers would pass by him in scores untouched6 ,now1 whether this taking the drones is a disadvantage or otherwise1 would depend entirely upon circumstances4 ,if honey was a little scarce1 the less we had of them the better2 it would also save the bees some trouble in dispatching them4 ,it is probably a matter of so little moment to our bees1 that it will not pay for powder to shoot them4 ,martins1 and a kind of swallows1 are said to be guilty of taking bees on some occasions2 but as they pursue them on the wing 7if they do71 the same remarks will apply as to the king-bird4 ,,cat-,,bird ,,acquitted4 ,the cat-bird also comes in for a share of censure4 ,it is said they will get right down by the hive1 and pick up bees by the hundred4 ,yet1 right in the face of this charge1 ,i am disposed to acquit him4 ,with the closest observation1 ,i find him about the hive1 picking up only young and immature bees1 such as are removed from the combs and thrown out4 ,they may be seen as soon as the first rays of light make objects visible about the apiary1 looking for their morning supply1 as well as frequent visits during the day4 ,should an unlucky worm be in sight just then1 while looking up a place for spinning a cocoon1 or a moth reposing on some corner of the hive1 their fate is at once decided4 ,before destroying this bird1 it would be well to judge by actual observation as to facts2 otherwise we might destroy a friend instead of a foe4 ,,toad ,,got ,,clear4 ,a toad is discovered near the hives1 and forthwith he is executed as a bee-eater4 ,he ought to be killed for his looks1 if nothing else6 ,he is thus often sacrificed really on account of his appearance1 while pretending he is a villain4 ,it is true his feathers will not vie in brilliancy with the plumage of the humming-bird1 and do not gratify ideality--therefore he is dispatched4 ,the next week the complaint is made that the little bugs1 that he might have destroyed1 have eaten up all the little cucumbers and cabbages4 ,his food is probably small insects4 ,whoever has seen him swallow bees1 must have watched closer than ,i ever did4 ,,wasps ,,and ,,hornets ,,not ,,favored4 ,as for the frequent visits of the black-wasp in the sunny days of spring1 but little can be said in their favor--they seem to have no other object but to tease and irritate the bees4 ,i never could discover that they entered the hive for the purpose of plunder4 ,they have frequent battles with the bees1 but ,i never saw any bees devoured or carried off1 nor even killed4 ,after the first of ,june they are seldom troublesome4 ,the yellow wasp or hornet1 that is around in autumn1 is of but little account2 their object is honey1 which they take when they can get it1 but are not apt to enter the hive among the bees4 ,,ants--,a ,,word ,,in ,,their ,,favor4 ,ants come in for a share of condemnation4 ,this little industrious insect shall have my endeavors for a fair hearing2 ,i think ,i can understand why they are so frequently accused of robbing bees4 ,many bee-keepers are wholly ignorant1 most of the time1 of the real condition of their stocks4 ,many causes independent of ants1 induce a reduction of population4 ,suppose the bees are so reduced as to leave the combs unprotected1 and the ants enter and appropriate some of the honey to themselves1 and should the owner come along just then and see them engaged1 ,ha6 you are the rascals that have destroyed my bees1 without a thought of looking for causes1 beyond present appearances4 ,they are often unjustly accused by the farmer of injuring the growth of his little trees1 by causing the tender leaves to curl and wither4 ,inquiries are often made in some of the agricultural papers for means to destroy them1 merely because they are found on them2 when the real cause of the mischief is with the plant louse1 7aphis7 that is upon the leaves or stalk in hundreds1 robbing them of their important juices1 and secreting a fluid greatly prized by the ants4 ,by destroying the lice1 you remove all the attraction of the ants4 ,the peculiar habits of the small black ants1 probably give rise to a suspicion of mischief in this way4 ,they live in communities of thousands--their nests are usually in old walls1 in old timber1 under stones1 and in the earth4 ,from their nests a string may be traced sometimes for rods1 going after1 and returning laden with food4 ,during a spell of wet weather1 such as would make the earth and many other places too damp and cold for a nest1 they look out for better quarters4 ,the top or chamber of our bee-hives affords shelter from rain4 ,the animal heat from the bees renders it perfectly comfortable4 ,how then can we blame them for choosing such a location1 so completely answering all their wants8 ,as long as the bees are not disturbed1 we can put up with it better4 ,but the careless observer having discovered their train to and fro from their nest on the hive1 exclaims3 ,why1 ,i have seen them going in a continual stream to the hive after honey2 when a little scrutiny into the matter would show that only the nest was on the top of the hive1 and they were going somewhere else for food2 not one to be seen entering the hive among the bees for honey1 7at least ,i never could detect it47 ,when honey is unprotected by bees1 or boxes of it placed where they can have access1 as a natural consequence1 they will carry off some2 but it is easily secured4 ,,spider ,,condemned4 ,spiders are a source of considerable annoyance to the apiarian1 as well as to the bees2 not so much on account of the number of bees consumed1 as their habit of spinning a web about the hive1 that will occasionally take a moth1 and will probably entangle fifty bees the whilst4 ,they are either in fear of the bees1 or they are not relished as food2 particularly1 as a bee caught in the morning is frequently untouched during the day4 ,this web is often exactly before the entrance1 entangling the bees as they go out and return2 irritating and hindering them considerably4 ,they often escape after repeated struggles4 ,i have removed a web from the same place every morning1 for a week1 that was renewed at night with astonishing perseverance6 ,i can generally look out his hiding-place1 which is in some corner near by1 and dispatch him4 ,his redeeming qualities are few1 and are more than balanced by the evil1 as far as ,i have discovered4 ,their sagacity in some instances will find a place of concealment not easily discovered4 ,at the approach of cold weather1 the box or chamber of the hive being a little warmer than other places1 will attract a great many there to deposit their eggs4 ,little piles of webbing or silk may be seen attached to the top of the hive1 or sides of boxes4 ,these contain eggs for the next year's brood4 ,this is the time to destroy them and save trouble for the future4 ,if we combine into one phalanx all the depredators yet named1 and compare their ability for mischief with the wax moth1 we shall find their powers of destruction but a small item6 ,of the moth itself we would have nothing to fear were it not for her progeny1 that consist of a hundred or a thousand vile worms1 whose food is principally wax or comb4 ,as the instinct of the flesh-fly directs her to a putrid carcass to deposit her eggs1 that her offspring may have their proper food1 so the moth seeks the hive containing combs1 and where its natural food is at hand to furnish a supply4 ,during the day a rusty brown miller1 with its wings wrapped close around the body1 may be often seen lying perfectly motionless on the side of the hive on one corner1 or the under edge of the top1 where it projects over--they are more frequent at the corners than anywhere else1 one-third of their length projecting beyond it2 appearing much like a sliver on the edge of a board that is somewhat weather-beaten4 ,their color so closely resembles old wood1 that ,i have no doubt their enemies are often deceived1 and let them escape with their lives4 ,as soon as daylight shuts out the view1 and no danger of their movements being discovered by their enemies1 they throw off their inactivity1 and commence searching for a place to deposit their eggs1 and woe to the stock that has not bees sufficient to drive them from the comb4 ,although their larvae has a skin that the bee cannot pierce with its sting1 in most cases1 it is not so with the moth1 and of this fact they seem to be aware1 for whenever a bee approaches they dart away with speed ten times greater than that of any bee1 disposed to follow6 ,they enter the hive and dodge out in a moment1 having either encountered a bee1 or fear they may do so4 ,now it needs no argument to prove that when all our stocks are well protected1 that it must be a poor chance to deposit eggs1 on the combs of such hives1 where their instinct has taught them is the proper place4 ,but they must leave them somewhere4 ,when driven from all the combs within1 the next best place is the cracks and flaws about the hive1 that are lined with propolis2 and the dust and chips that fall on the floor-board of a young swarm not full will be used4 ,this last material is mostly wax1 and answers very well instead of comb4 ,the eggs will here hatch and the worms sometimes ascend to the combs2 hence the necessity of keeping the bottom brushed off clean4 ,it will prevent those that are on the bottom from going up2 also the bees from taking up any eggs1 if this should happen to be the method4 ,i can conceive of no other way by which they get among the combs of a populous stock2 where they are often detected1 having been deposited by some means4 ,a worm lodged in the comb1 makes his way to the centre1 and then eats a passage as he proceeds1 lining it with a shroud of silk1 gradually enlarging it1 as he increases in size4 7,when combs are filled with honey1 they work on the surface1 eating only the sealing47 ,in very weak families this silken passageway is left untouched1--but removed by all the stronger ones4 ,i have found it asserted that the worms would be all immediately destroyed by the bees1 were it not for a kind of dread in touching them until compelled to by necessity4 ,as the facts which led to this conclusion are not given1 and ,i can find none confirming it1 perhaps ,i shall be excused if ,i have no faith4 ,on the contrary1 ,i find to all appearance an instinctive antipathy to all such intruders1 and are removed immediately when possessing the power4 ,when a worm is in a comb filled with brood1 its passage being in the centre1 it is not at first discovered4 ,the bees1 to get it out1 must bite away half the thickness1 removing the brood in one or two rows of cells1 sometimes for several inches4 ,this will account for so many immature bees found on the bottom board at morning1 in the spring2 as well as in stocks and swarms but partially protected after the swarming season4 ,,indications ,,of ,,their ,,presence4 ,sometimes a half dozen young bees1 nearly mature1 will be removed alive1 all webbed together1 fastened by legs1 wings1 c4 ,all their efforts for breaking loose prove unavailing4 ,also others that are separate may be seen running about with their wings mutilated1 or part of their legs eaten off1 or tied together6 ,these generally are the first symptoms of worms in our stock at this season4 ,although unfavorable1 it might be worse4 ,it shows that the bees are not discouraged yet1--that when finding the worms present1 have sufficient energy left to make an effort to rid themselves of the nuisance4 ,,management4 ,should the apiarian now give them a little assistance for a few days1 they will soon be in a prosperous condition4 ,the hive should be frequently raised1 and everything brushed out clean4 ,if it is a new swarm half full1 that presents these indications1 it should be turned over a few times1 perhaps once a week1 till the worms are mastered2 and the corners below the bees examined for the cocoons1 that will very often be found there1 and are easily detached and destroyed4 ,in turning over a hive part full1 in warm weather1 you should first observe the position of the combs1 and let the edges rest against the side of the hive1 otherwise they might bend over and break loose when the hive was again set up1 7by simply making a pencil mark across the top in the direction of the combs1 you may know any time after first looking74 ,,care ,,in ,,turning ,,over ,,hives4 ,when a hive is full of combs1 the edges are usually attached sufficient to steady them1 and it is of less consequence which way it is turned1 yet in very warm weather the honey will run out of drone cells if perpendicular4 ,in very small swarms1 hundreds of the young brood may be frequently seen with their heads out of the cells1 endeavoring to escape1 but are firmly held inside by these webs4 ,i have known a few instances in such circumstances1 where it appeared as if the bees had cut off the whole sheet of comb and let it drop1 thereby ridding themselves of all further trouble 7or would be rid of it1 if their owner only did his part by taking out what fell down47 ,,other ,,symptoms ,,of ,,worms4 ,but when the bees make no effort to dislodge the enemy or his works in old stocks1 the case is somewhat desperate6 ,instead of the foregoing symptoms we must look for something entirely different4 ,but few young bees will be found4 ,in their place we may find the faeces of the worms dropped on the board4 ,during winter and spring the bees1 in biting off the covering of cells to get at the honey1 drop chips closely resembling it4 ,to detect the difference and distinguish one from the other requires a little close inspection4 ,the color of the faeces varies with the comb on which they feed1 from white to brown and black4 ,the size of these grains will be in proportion to the worm--from a mere speck to nearly as large as a pin-head3 shape cylindrical1 with obtuse ends3 length about twice its diameter4 ,by the quantity we can judge of the number4 ,if the hive is full of combs the lower ends may appear perfect1 while the middle or upper part is sometimes a mat of webs6 ,whenever our stocks have become reduced from over-swarming or other cause1 this is the next effect in succession that we must expect4 ,here is another important reason that we know the actual condition of our bees at all times2 we can then detect the worms very soon after they commence4 ,in some instances we might save the stock by breaking out most of the combs1 leaving just enough to be covered by the bees4 ,when success attends this operation1 it must be done before the worms have progressed to a thorough lodgment4 ,when the stock is weak1 and appearances indicate the presence of many1 it is generally the safest1 and will be the least trouble in the end1 to drive out the bees at once and secure the honey and wax4 ,the bees when put into a new hive may do a little1 but if they should do nothing1 it would be no worse4 ,it cannot be as bad any way as to have left them in the old hive till the worms had destroyed all and matured a thousand or two moths in addition to those otherwise produced1 thereby multiplying the chances of damage to other stocks a thousand-fold4 ,it is probably remembered that ,i said when bees are removed from a hive in warm weather1 if it was not infested with worms at the time1 it soon would be1 unless smoked with sulphur4 ,,when ,,they ,,grow ,,larger ,,than ,,usual4 ,in a hive thus left without bees to interfere1 the worms will increase to one-half or two-thirds larger than where their right to the combs is disputed4 ,in one case they often have their growth1 and actually wind up in their cocoon when less than an inch in length3 in the other they will quietly fatten till they are an inch and a half long and as large as a pipe-stem4 ,,time ,,of ,,growth4 ,when first hatched from the egg1 it requires very close inspection to see them with the naked eye4 ,the rapidity of growth depends on the temperature in which they are1 as much or more than their good living4 ,a few days in hot weather might develop the full-grown worm1 while in a lower temperature it would require weeks and even months in some cases1 perhaps from fall till spring4 ,,time ,,of ,,transformation4 ,the worm1 after spinning its cocoon1 soon changes to a chrysalis1 and remains inactive for several days1 when it makes an opening in one end and crawls out4 ,the time taken for this transformation is also governed by the temperature1 although ,i think but few ever pass the winter in this state4 ,it is a rare thing to find a moth before the end of ,may1 and not many till the middle of ,june2 but after this time they are more numerous till the end of the season4 ,,freezing ,,destroys ,,worms1 ,,cocoon ,,and ,,moth4 ,it is pretty well demonstrated that the moth1 its eggs1 larvae and chrysalis cannot pass the winter without warmth of some kind to prevent their freezing to death4 ,the following facts indicate this4 ,i have taken all the bees out of a hive in the fall1 and without disturbing the comb or honey1 put it in a cold chamber where it could freeze thoroughly4 ,in the following ,march bees were again introduced1 and when not on a bench with some other stock that had worms1 not a single instance in forty cases has ever produced a worm before the middle of ,june1 or until the eggs of some moth matured in another hive has had time to hatch4 ,i have sometimes1 instead of putting bees in these in ,march1 kept them till ,june for swarms1 perfectly free from any appearance of worms6 ,,how ,,they ,,pass ,,the ,,winter4 ,but it is altogether a different thing with our hives in which bees are wintered2 they are seldom or never entirely exempt6 ,perhaps it is impossible to winter bees without preserving some eggs of the moth or a few worms at the same time4 ,the perfect moth perhaps never survives the winter2 the only place that the chrysalis would be safe1 ,i think must be in the vicinity of the bees--and a good stock will never allow it there--but eggs1 it would appear1 are suffered to remain4 ,in the fall1 at the approach of cold weather1 the bees are apt to leave the ends of the combs exposed2 the moth can now enter and deposit her eggs directly upon them2 these1 together with what are carried in by means before suggested1 are enough to prevent losing the breed4 ,the warmth generated by the bees will keep these eggs from freezing and preserve their vitality4 ,when warm weather approaches in the spring1 those nearest the bees are probably hatched first1 and commence depredations and are removed by the bees4 ,as the bees increase and occupy more comb1 more are warmed up and hatched4 ,in this way1 even a small family of bees will hatch1 and get rid of all the eggs that happen to be in their combs1 and not be destroyed4 ,this is the time that the apiarian may be of service in destroying the worms1 as the bees get them on the floor4 ,,stocks ,,more ,,liable ,,to ,,be ,,destroyed ,,last ,,of ,,summer4 ,but in ,july and ,august it is different in this respect2 a single moth may enter the hive when exposed1 and deposit her whole burden of several hundred eggs1 as in the other case1 but the heat from the bees is now unnecessary to hatch them4 ,the weather at this season will make any part of the hive warm enough to set her whole brood at work at once1 and in three weeks all may be destroyed6 ,this1 and the fact that more moths exist now than before1 may account for the greater number of stocks being destroyed at this season4 ,yet it is considered extremely bad management to allow honey or combs to be devoured by this disgusting creature4 ,a little care to know the condition of the stocks is necessary to prevent their getting the start4 ,these duties should be fully considered before we take the responsibility of the care of bees4 ,,when ,,bees ,,are ,,safe4 ,the only condition when we can rest and feel safe is when we know all our stocks are full of bees4 ,even the moth-proof hive containing combs will be scented out by the moth1 when there are no bees to guard it4 ,an argument to show that a moth can enter where a bee can go is unnecessary1 and a little observation1 ,i think1 will prove that her eggs sometimes go where she is not allowed4 ,,means ,,to ,,destroy ,,them4 ,at this season1 7,july and ,august71 it is a good plan to put a few pieces of old dry combs near the hives1 in a box1 or other place1 as a decoy1 where the moth may have access4 ,she will deposit a great many of her eggs here1 instead of the hive1 and can be easily destroyed4 ,as we cannot always have our bees in a situation to feel safe1 it will be well to adopt some of the means recommended to diminish the number of moths4 ,first destroy all the worms that can be found at any time1 particularly in spring2 second1 all cocoons that can be got at4 ,a great many worms can be enticed to web up1 under a trap of elder1 c41 when it is an easy matter to dispatch them4 ,thirdly1 destroy all the moths possible that can be seen about the hive4 ,they are very much like the flea1 when you put your finger on him he is not there2 a careful move is necessary to crush him at once1 otherwise he darts away at the least disturbance4 ,probably the most expeditious mode is to make them drunk4 ,,making ,,them ,,drunk1 ,,and ,,their ,,execution ,,by ,,chickens4 ,mix with water just enough molasses and vinegar to make it palatable2 this is to be put in white saucers or other dishes1 and set among the hives at night4 ,like nobler beings1 if not wiser1 when once they have tasted the fatal beverage1 they seem to lose all power to leave the fascinating cup2 but give way to appetite and excitement till a fatal step plunges them into destruction6 ,the next morning finds them yet wallowing in filth1 weak and feeble4 ,whether they would recover from the effects of their carousal if lifted out of the mire1 and carefully nursed like other specimens of creation1 ,i never ascertained4 ,with but little trouble a chicken or two will learn to be on hand1 and greedily devour every one4 ,hundreds are caught in this way1 although many other kinds besides the bee-moth will be mixed with them4 ,this drink may be used till dried up1 occasionally adding a little water2 perhaps it is better after fermenting4 ,this recipe appeared some years ago in some paper2 ,i have forgotten where4 ,salt has been recommended to prevent the mischief of the worms1 as well as a benefit to the bees4 ,i used it pretty extensively for several years1 as ,i thought without much benefit1 and got tired4 ,i then tried salting a part1 and let the rest do entirely without1 and found no difference in their prosperity4 ,since then1 some ten years ago1 ,i abandoned its use altogether1 and succeed just as well4 ,,chapter ,,xx4 ,,melting ,,down ,,of ,,combs4 ,,the ,,cause4 ,when extreme hot weather occurs immediately after the bees have been gathering from a plentiful harvest for two or three weeks1 or even during the yield1 the wax composing new combs is very liable to be softened1 till they break loose from their fastenings and settle to the bottom4 ,,effects4 ,sometimes the injury is trifling1 only a piece or two slipping down2 at other times the whole contents fall in a confused and broken mass1 the weight pressing out the honey1 and besmearing the bees1 which in that situation creep out1 and away1 from the hive in every direction4 ,i once had some new stocks ruined1 and several others injured by hot weather1 in this way1 about the first of ,september1 immediately after the flowers of buckwheat4 ,the bees1 or most of them1 being covered with honey1 together with what ran out of the hive1 at once attracted bees from the others to the spot1 which carried off the entire contents in a few hours4 ,this was an uncommon occurrence2 ,i have known but one season in twenty-five years when it occurred after the failure of honey in the flowers4 ,it usually happens during a plenteous yield1 and then other stocks are not apt to be troublesome4 ,,first ,,indications4 ,the first indications of such an accident will be1 the bees outside in clusters1 when the hive is perhaps only half or two-thirds full1 and the honey running out from the bottom1 7this is when part has fallen47 ,,prevention4 ,to prevent such occurrences as far as possible1 ventilate by raising the hives on little blocks at the corners1 and effectually protect them from the sun2 and if necessary1 wet the outside with cold water4 ,at the time of losing those before mentioned1 ,i kept all the rest of the young swarms wet through the middle of the day1 and ,i have no doubt but ,i saved several by this means4 ,i had some trouble with such as had only a piece or two come down1 and started just honey enough to attract other bees4 ,it was not safe to close the hive to prevent the robbers1 as this would have made the heat still greater1 and been certain destruction4 ,the best protection ,i found1 was to put around the bottom of the hive a few stems of asparagus2 this gave a free circulation of air1 and at the same time1 made it very difficult for the robbers to approach the entrance1 without first creeping through this hedge and encountering some bees that belonged to the hive2 which1 with this assistance1 were enabled to defend themselves till all wasting honey was taken up4 ,when the hive is nearly full1 and but one or two sheets come down1 the lower edge will rest on the floor1 and the other combs will keep it in an upright position1 until the bees fasten it again4 ,it is generally as well to leave such pieces as they are4 ,if the hive is but half full or little more1 and such pieces are not kept perpendicular by the remaining combs1 they are apt to be broken and crushed badly1 by falling so far2 and most of the honey will be wasted4 ,to save this1 it will be necessary to remove it1 7unless a dish can be made to catch it74 ,be careful not to turn the hive on its side1 and break the remaining combs1 if any are left4 ,such combs as contain brood and but little honey1 might be left for the brood to mature4 ,should the bees be able to take the honey or not waste much1 it might be advisable to leave it1 till the contents were taken up2 it would greatly assist in filling up4 ,but these broken pieces should be removed before they interfere with the combs extending to the bottom4 ,a part of the bees are generally destroyed1 but the majority will escape2 even such as are covered with honey1 7if they are not crushed7 will clean it off and soon be in working order1 when others do not interfere officiously1 assisting to remove it4 ,a good yield of honey is the best protection against this disposition to pillage4 ,after the first year combs become thicker1 and are not so liable to give way4 ,,chapter ,,xxi4 ,,fall ,,management4 ,,first ,,care4 ,when the flowers fail at the end of the season1 the first thing necessary is to ascertain which are the weakest stocks1 and all that cannot defend themselves should either be removed or reinforced4 ,the strength of all stocks is pretty thoroughly tested within a few days after a failure of honey4 ,should any be found with too few bees for defence1 they are quite sure to be plundered4 ,hence the necessity of action in season1 that we may secure the contents in advance of the robbers4 ,,strong ,,stocks ,,disposed ,,to ,,plunder4 ,strong stocks1 that during a yield have occupied every cell with brood and honey1 when it fails1 will soon have empty cells left by the young bees1 hatching4 ,these empty cells1 without honey to fill them1 appear to be a source of much uneasiness4 ,although such hive and caps may be well stored1 ,i have ever found them to be the worst in the apiary1 much more disposed to plunder1 than weaker ones with half the honey4 ,as weak stocks cannot be bettered now1 it is best to remove them at once1 and put the temptation out of the way4 ,carelessness is but a sorry excuse1 for letting bees establish this habit of dishonesty4 ,should any stocks be weak from disease1 the consequences would be even more disastrous than bad habits2 the reasons why such impure honey should not go into thrifty stocks1 have already been given4 ,if we want the least possible trouble with our bees1 none but the best should be selected for winter4 ,but what constitutes a good stock1 seems to be but partially understood2 if we judge from the number lost annually1 too many are careless1 or ignorant in the selection2 supposing1 perhaps1 because a stock has been good one winter and swarmed well1 it must of course be right2 the mistake is often fatal4 ,,bees ,,changeable4 ,bees are so changeable1 especially in the summer and swarming season1 that we can seldom be certain what they are1 by what they have been4 ,it is safest1 therefore1 to know what they are now4 ,,requisites ,,for ,,good ,,stocks4 ,the proper requisites for a good stock are a full hive of proper shape and size1 7viz41 #b1jjj inches17 well stored with honey2 a large family of bees1 and in a healthy condition1 which must be ascertained by actual inspection4 ,the age is not important till over eight years old4 ,stocks possessing these points1 can be wintered with but little trouble4 ,but it cannot be expected that all will be in this condition4 ,many bee-keepers will wish to increase their stocks and keep all that is practicable1 by supplying any deficiency4 ,i shall endeavor to make it appear profitable to do so1 until bees enough are kept in the country1 to get all the honey that is now wasted4 ,all can understand why it is a loss to have bees eat honey part of the winter and then die--that the honey consumed might have been saved--that it makes no great difference to the bees whether they are killed in the fall or sacrificed in the winter4 ,i am not an advocate for fire and brimstone as the reward of all unfortunate stocks1 and shall recommend it only when its use will make it no worse4 ,we will see how far it can be dispensed with4 ,,great ,,disadvantage ,,of ,,killing ,,the ,,bees4 ,those rustic bee-keepers who are in the habit of making their hives very large1 such as will hold from #ajj to #adj lbs41 and killing the bees in the fall1 and sending the honey to market1 will probably continue the use of sulphur1 unless we can convince them of the greater advantage of making the hive smaller and have fifty or eighty lbs4 of this honey in boxes which will sell for more than can be realized for their larger hive full1 and at the same time1 save their bees for a stock-hive1 making a better return in the long run1 than one hundred dollars at interest4 ,when hives are made the proper size1 the honey will not be an object sufficient to pay for destroying the bees4 ,,section ,,of ,,country ,,may ,,make ,a ,,difference ,,in ,,what ,,poor ,,stocks ,,need4 ,the kind of requisite to be supplied to our deficient stocks1 will probably depend on the section of country4 ,where the principal source is clover and basswood1 it will fail partially1 at least1 before the end of warm weather4 ,some poor or medium stocks will continue to rear brood too extensively for their means1 and exhaust their winter stores in consequence2 such will need a supply of honey4 ,but where great quantities of buckwheat are sown1 cold weather follows almost immediately after this yield1 and stops the breeding4 ,consequently a scarcity of bees is more frequent than honey4 ,there are exceptions1 of course2 ,i am speaking of these cases generally4 ,my experience has mostly been in a section where this crop is raised1 and will say that there is not more than one season in ten1 but that the honey will be in proportion with the bees the first of ,september2 that is1 if there are bees enough1 there will be honey enough4 ,,when ,,bees ,,are ,,needed4 ,i have frequently had stocks with stores amply sufficient to carry a good family through the winter1 and yet too few bees to last till ,january1 or even to defend themselves from the robbers4 ,hence ,i am in the habit of supplying bees oftener than honey4 ,i usually have some few hives with too little honey1 as well as too few bees4 ,now it is very plain if the bees of one or more of this class were united with the first successfully1 we should have a respectable family4 ,i have made additions to stocks in this way that proved first-rate4 ,,caution4 ,whenever we make additions in this manner1 it would be well first to ascertain what was the cause of a scarcity of bees2 if it was over-swarming or loss of queen1 it is well enough--but if from disease1 reject them1 unless the bees are to be transferred the next spring1 and then1 when too many cells are occupied with dead brood1 as the bees cannot be successfully wintered4 ,,principal ,,difficulty4 ,the greatest difficulty in uniting two families or more in this manner1 is where they have to be taken from different places in the same apiary2 where the locations have been marked4 ,it is sufficiently shown that bees return to the old stand4 ,to prevent these results1 it has been recommended to set an empty hive with some pieces of comb1 fastened in the top in the place of the one removed1 to catch the bees that go back to the old stand1 and remove them at night for a few times1 when they remain4 ,this should be done only when we cannot do better2 it is considerable trouble2 besides this1 we do not always succeed to our satisfaction4 ,,how ,,avoided4 ,i like the plan of bringing them a mile or more for this purpose1 and have no after trouble about it4 ,two neighbors being that distance apart1 each having stocks in this condition might exchange bees1 making the benefit mutual4 ,i have done so1 and considered myself well paid for the trouble4 ,but latterly ,i have had several apiaries away from home1 and now manage without difficulty4 ,,advantages ,,of ,,making ,,one ,,good ,,stock ,,from ,,two ,,poor ,,ones4 ,this making one good stock out of two poor ones1 cannot be too highly recommended2 aside from its advantages1 it relieves us from all disagreeable feelings in taking life1 that we can with but little trouble preserve4 ,,two ,,families ,,together ,,will ,,not ,,consume ,,as ,,much ,,as ,,if ,,separate4 ,even when a stock already contains bees enough to make it safe for winter1 another of the same number of bees may be added1 and the consumption of honey will not be five lbs4 more than one swarm would consume alone4 ,if they should be wintered in the cold1 the difference might not be one pound4 ,why more bees do not consume a proportionate quantity of honey1 7which the experience of others as well as myself has thoroughly proved71 is a mystery1 unless the greater number of bees creates more animal heat1 and being warm1 eat less1 is a solution1 7which if it is1 is a strong reason for keeping bees warm in winter47 ,,an ,,experiment4 ,notwithstanding all this1 ,i cannot recommend making a good stock better by adding the bees from another good one as a source of profit4 ,i tried it a few times4 ,i had purchased some large hives for market1 and wished to dispose of the bees without sulphur1 and try the experiment of uniting two or more4 ,the next spring when they commenced work such double stocks promised much2 but when the swarming season arrived1 the single swarms1 such as were good and had just about bees enough1 were in the best condition1 in ordinary seasons4 ,whether this was owing to the circumstance of there being already bees enough that were beginning to crowd and interfere with each other's labors1 and less brood raised in consequence1 or to some other reason1 ,i cannot say4 ,i have often noticed1 7as others have71 that stocks which have cast no swarms1 are no better the next spring than others4 ,the same cause might operate in both cases4 ,therefore it would appear unnecessary to unite two or more good swarms1 unless it is to spare our feelings in destroying the bees4 ,the two extremes may generally be avoided1 and not have too many or too few bees4 ,,season ,,for ,,operating4 ,the season for operating is1 generally1 when all the brood has matured and left the cells4 ,the exceptions are when there are not bees enough to protect the stores2 it may then be necessary1 immediately after the failure of honey4 ,col4 ,h4 ,k4 ,oliver1 of ,salem1 ,mass41 is said to be the inventor of the fumigator1 an instrument to burn fungus 7puff-ball74 ,by the aid of this the smoke is blown in the hive1 paralyzing the bees in a few minutes2 when they fall to the bottom1 apparently dead1 but will recover in a few minutes1 on receiving fresh air4 ,,the ,,fumigator4 ,i am indebted to a communication from ,j4 ,m4 ,weeks1 published on page #aea of the ,cultivator for #ahda1 for this method4 ,the description of the fumigator that ,i constructed will vary a trifle from his1 but will retain the principle4 ,i obtained a tin tube four inches long1 and two in diameter4 ,next1 ,i made a stopper of soft wood1 three inches long1 to exactly fit one end of the tube when driven in half an inch1 and secured it by little nails driven through the tin4 ,through the centre of this stopper ,i made a hole one-fourth of an inch in diameter4 ,to prevent this hole filling up1 the end in the tube was covered over with wire cloth1 made a little convex4 ,the end of this stopper was cut down to about half an inch1 tapering it from the tin4 ,for the other end a similar piece of wood is fitted1 though a little longer1 and not to be fastened1 as it must be taken out for every operation4 ,the outer end of this is cut down into a shape to be taken into the mouth1 or attached to the pipe of a bellows4 7,i fitted them in the turning lathe1 but have seen them fixed very nicely without47 ,it could all be made of tin2 but then it is necessary to use solder1 which is liable to melt and cause leaks4 ,illustration3 ,,fumigator4 ,the puff-balls must not be too much injured by remaining in the weather1 and should be picked1 if possible1 just before they are ripe and burst open4 ,when not thoroughly dry1 put them in the oven after the bread is out4 ,when used1 the cuticle or rind must be carefully removed2 ignite it by a lamp or coal 7it will not blaze in burning71 blow it1 and get it thoroughly started1 before putting it in the tube4 ,put in the stopper1 and blow through it2 if it smokes well1 you are ready to proceed4 ,when it does not burn freely1 unstop and shake it out4 ,the dry air is much better than moist breath at the commencement4 ,,directions ,,for ,,uniting ,,two ,,families4 ,the hive to receive the bees is inverted1 the other set over it right end up1 all crevices stopped to prevent the escape of the smoke4 ,now insert the end of the fumigator into a hole in the side of the hive 7which if not made before will need to be now72 blow into the other end1 this forces the smoke into the hive2 in two minutes you may hear the bees begin to fall4 ,both hives should be smoked2 the upper one the most1 as we want all the bees out of that4 ,the other only needs enough to make the scent of the bees similar to those introduced4 ,at the end of eight or ten minutes1 the upper hive may be raised1 and any bees sticking between the combs brushed down with a quill4 ,the two queens in this case are of course together2 one will be destroyed1 and no difficulty arise4 ,but if either of them is a young one1 and you have been convinced by some bee-doctor that such are much more prolific1 and happen to know which hive contains her1 and wish that one to be preserved1 you can do so by varying the process a little4 ,instead of inverting one hive1 set them both on a cloth right side up1 and smoke the bees2 the queens are easily found1 while they are all paralyzed2 then put the bees all together4 ,the hive should now have a thin cloth tied over the bottom1 to prevent the escape of the bees4 ,before they are fully recovered1 they seem rather bewildered1 and some of them get away4 ,set the hive right end up1 and raise it an inch2 the bees drop on the cloth1 and fresh air passing under soon revives them4 ,in from twelve to twenty-four hours1 they may be let out4 ,families put together in this way will seldom quarrel 7not more than one in twenty71 but remain together1 defending themselves against intruders as one swarm4 ,i once had a stock nearly destitute of bees1 with abundant stores for wintering a large family4 ,i had let it down on the floor-board1 and was on the lookout for an attack4 ,the other bees soon discovered this weakness1 and commenced carrying off the honey4 ,i had brought home a swarm to reinforce them only the day before1 and immediately united them by means of the fumigator4 ,the next morning ,i let them out1 allowing them to issue only at the hole in the side of the hive4 ,it was amusing to witness the apparent consternation of the robbers that were on hand for more plunder2 they had been there only the day before1 and had been allowed to enter and depart without even being questioned4 ,but lo6 a change had come over the matter4 ,instead of open doors and a free passage1 the first bee that touched the hive was seized and very rudely handled1 and at last dispatched with a sting4 ,a few others receiving similar treatment1 they began to exercise a little caution1 then tried to find admission on the back side1 and other places2 and attempted one or two others on either side1 perhaps thinking they were mistaken in the hive2 but these being strong1 repulsed them1 and they finally gave it up4 ,i mention this to show how easy it is1 with a little care1 to prevent robberies at this season4 ,too many complaints are made about bees being robbed2 it is very disagreeable4 ,suppose that none were plundered through carelessness2 this complaint would soon be a rare thing4 ,,uniting ,,with ,,tobacco ,,smoke4 ,by the use of tobacco smoke1 bees may be united with nearly the same success4 ,first1 smoke the two to be united1 thoroughly2 disturb them and smoke again1 that all may become partially drunk1 and acquire the same scent4 ,then invert both hives1 and with your pruning tools1 cut the combs down on the sides of the hive1 and across the top1 and take out one comb at a time with the bees on it1 and brush them with a quill into the other hive2 they immediately go down among the combs1 without once thinking it necessary to sting you4 ,when done1 the bees are to be confined1 the same as in the other method4 ,i do not like this method as well as the first1 and do not resort to it when ,i can get the puff-ball4 ,the bees are more liable to disagree1 and it compels me to take out the comb1 which ,i do not always like to do at the time4 ,to avoid it1 ,i have tried to drive them1 but when the hive is only part full of combs1 or contains but few bees1 it is a slow job2 and more so in cool weather4 ,,condition ,,of ,,stocks ,,in #ahea4 ,the latter part of the summer of #ahea was very dry and cold2 the yield of buckwheat honey was not a tenth of the usual quantity2 the consequence was1 that none but early swarms had sufficient honey for winter2 twenty-five pounds is required to make it safe in this section4 ,i had over thirty young swarms with less than that quantity4 ,feeding for winter ,i avoid when ,i can2 they would not winter as they were2 and yet ,i made the most of them good stocks for the next summer by the following plan4 ,,how ,,they ,,were ,,managed4 ,i had about twenty old stocks with diseased brood1 and but few bees1 yet honey enough4 ,now this honey appears healthy enough for the old bees1 and fatal only to the young brood4 ,i transferred the bees of these new swarms to the old stocks with black comb and diseased brood4 ,the bees were thus wintered on honey of but little account any way1 and all that was in the others1 new and healthy1 was saved4 ,these new hives were set in a cold dry place for winter2 right end up1 to prevent much of the honey from dripping out of the cells2 some will leak then1 but not as much as when the hive is bottom up4 ,honey that runs out1 when the hive is bottom up1 will soak into the wood at the base of the combs2 this will have a tendency to loosen the fastenings1 and render them liable to fall1 c4 ,the next ,march the bees were again transferred from the old to the new hives4 ,my method is as follows3 ,as the combs in the hive to receive the bees are rather cold1 ,i set them by the fire1 or in a warm room1 for several hours previous4 ,i take a warm room before a window1 and as some few bees fly off1 they will collect there4 ,the new hive is turned bottom up on the floor2 the old one on a bench by the side of it1 having smoked the bees to keep them quiet4 ,one comb at a time is taken out1 and the bees brushed into the new hive2 7a little smoke will keep them there74 ,when through1 ,i get the few on the window1 and tie over a cloth to confine them1 and keep them warm for a few hours longer4 ,paralyzing with puff-ball will answer instead1 but they do not always all fall out of the combs when the hive is filled to the bottom1 and it is possible that if a few were left1 the queen might be one4 ,also a very few bees are worth saving at this season1 and the combs might have to be broken out at last1 for this purpose4 ,when a good-sized family is put in a hive containing fifteen or twenty pounds of honey1 and near half full of clean new comb1 they are about as sure to fill up and cast a swarm1 as another that is full and has wintered a swarm4 ,,cause ,,of ,,their ,,superior ,,thrift4 ,one cause of superior thrift may be found in the circumstance1 that all moth eggs and worms are frozen to death1 and the bees are not troubled with a single worm before ,june4 ,no young bees have to be removed to work them out4 ,nearly every young bee that is fed and sealed up1 comes forth perfect1 and of course makes a vast difference in the increase4 ,,swarms ,,partly ,,filled ,,pay ,,better ,,than ,,to ,,cut ,,out ,,the ,,honey4 ,any person wishing to increase his stocks to the utmost1 will find this plan of saving all part-filled hives1 of much more advantage than to break it out for sale4 ,suppose you have an old stock that needs pruning1 and have neglected it1 or it has refused to swarm1 and give you a chance without destroying too much brood4 ,you can let it be1 and put on the boxes2 perhaps get twenty-five pounds of cap honey2 and then winter the bees as described1 and in the spring transfer them to the new combs4 ,again1 if there is no stocks to be transferred in the spring1 keep them till the swarming season4 ,if a swarm put into an empty hive would just fill it1 the same swarm put into one containing fifteen pounds of honey1 it seems plain1 would make that number of pounds in boxes4 ,the advantage is1 in the comparative value of box or cap honey over that stored in the hive2 the difference being from thirty to a hundred per cent4 ,,advantages ,,in ,,transferring4 ,i would now like to show the advantages ,i derived in transferring the twenty swarms before mentioned4 ,we will suppose that each family1 from the first of ,october till ,april1 consumed twenty pounds of honey4 ,that in the centre combs1 where there is most bee-bread1 c41 is eaten first2 if any is left1 it is at the top and outside4 ,if ,i had attempted to take out and strain this twenty pounds in the fall1 it would have been so mixed with dead brood1 and bee-bread1 that ,i probably should have rejected most of it4 ,the remainder1 when strained1 might have been five pounds1 not more4 ,the market price for it is about ten cents per pound2 amount fifty cents4 ,we will say the new hive kept through the winter to receive the bees in the spring contained fifteen pounds2 this would also have averaged about ten cents per pound1 amounting to #a4ej4 ,all that a stock of this kind costs me appears to be just #b4jj1 and worth at least #e4jj4 ,the advantage in changing twenty would be #fj4jj4 ,the labor of transferring will offset against the trouble of straining1 preparing1 and the expense of getting the honey to market4 ,,another ,,method ,,of ,,uniting ,,two ,,families4 ,i have occasionally adopted yet another method of making a good stock from two poor ones1 which the reader may prefer4 ,when all your old stocks have been reinforced that need it1 and you still have some swarms with too few bees and too little honey for safety as they are1 two or more can be united4 ,the fact1 which has been thoroughly tested1 that two families of bees1 when united and wintered in one hive1 will consume but little1 if any more1 than each of them would separately1 is a very important principle in this matter4 ,if each family should have fifteen pounds of honey1 they would consume it all1 and probably starve at last1 after eating thirty pounds4 ,but if the contents of both were in one hive1 it would be amply sufficient1 and some to spare in the spring4 ,,uniting ,,comb ,,and ,,honey ,,as ,,well ,,as ,,bees4 ,the process of uniting them is simple4 ,smoke both the stocks or swarms thoroughly1 and turn them over4 ,choose the one with the straightest combs1 or the one nearest full1 to receive the contents of the other2 trim off the points of the combs to make them square across1 and this one is ready2 remove the sticks from the other1 and with your tools take out the combs with the bees on as before directed1 one at a time1 and carefully set them on the edges of the other2 if the shape will admit it1 let the edges match2 if not1 let them cross4 ,small bits of wood or rolls of paper will be needed between them1 to preserve the right distance4 ,when both hives are of one size1 the transferred combs will exactly fit1 if you are careful to place them as they were before4 ,you will now want to know1 what is to prevent these combs from falling out when the hive is turned over8 ,this hive is to remain bottom up in some dark place for some time1 or till spring4 7,see method of wintering bees47 ,the bees will immediately join these combs fast2 the hive being inverted1 the honey in these combs will be consumed first2 and when the hive is again set out in spring1 it will be a rare occurrence for any pieces to drop out4 ,should any pieces project beyond the bottom of the hive1 they may be trimmed off even after they are fastened1 any time before setting out4 ,an additional cross-stick may pass under the bottom of the combs1 to assist in holding them1 if you desire4 ,you will probably never discover any difference in the subsequent prosperity in consequence of the joining or crossing of the combs in the middle4 ,i have had them in this way1 when they were among the most prosperous of my stocks4 ,as this operation is to be put off till ,november1 it will be an advantage in another way2 that is1 families of the same apiary can be united1 and will mostly forget the old location by spring1 and no difficulty arise by returning to the old stand1 etc4 ,,when ,,feeding ,,should ,,be ,,done ,,for ,,stock ,,hives4 ,in some sections of country the honey is more frequently wanting than bees1 or comb1 and some seasons in this2 in such cases1 it will be found an advantage to feed1 until enough is stored for winter4 ,this should be done in ,september or ,october4 ,but if they lack comb as well as honey1 and you wish to try feeding1 7which ,i seldom do lately17 it should be done if possible in warm weather1 as they cannot work combs to advantage in the cold4 ,while feeding bees1 it requires a great deal of caution to prevent others from scenting the honey1 and their contentions about it4 ,the safest place is on the top of the hive1 with a good cap over2 but they will not work quite as fast1 especially if the weather is cool4 ,the next best place is under the bottom in the manner described in ,chapter ,,ix4 ,setting out honey to feed all at once1 ,i condemn wholly4 ,these disadvantages attend it3 strong stocks that do not need an ounce1 will get two or three pounds1 while those weaker ones1 needing it more1 will not get one4 ,nearly every stock1 in a short time1 will be fighting4 ,probably the first bee that comes home with a load1 will inform a number of its fellows that a treasure is close at hand4 ,a number will sally out immediately1 without waiting for particular directions for finding it2 and mistaking other hives for the place1 alight there1 are seized and probably dispatched4 ,as soon as the honey given them is gone1 the tumult is greatly increased1 and great numbers are destroyed4 ,if any of your neighbors near you have bees1 you must expect to divide with them4 ,if the honey to be fed is in the comb1 and your hives are not full1 and they are to be wintered in the house1 bottom up1 it may be done at any time through the winter1 merely by laying pieces with honey on those in the hive4 ,the bees readily remove the contents into their own combs2 when empty1 remove them and put in more until they have a full supply4 ,they will join such pieces of comb to their own2 yet there will be no harm in breaking them loose4 ,the principal objection to feeding in this way1 will be found in the tendency to make them uneasy and disposed to leave the hive1 when we want them as quiet as possible1 ,a thin muslin cloth1 or other means1 will be necessary to confine them to the hive4 ,i have now given directions to avoid killing any family of bees worth saving1 if we choose4 ,when such as need feeding have been fed1 and all weak families made strong by additions1 etc41 but little more fall work is needed in the apiary4 ,it is only when you have weak stocks1 unfit to winter1 that it is necessary to be on the lookout every warm day to prevent pillage4 ,,chapter ,,xxii4 ,,wintering ,,bees4 ,there is almost as much diversity of opinion with respect to wintering bees as in the construction of hives1 and about as difficult to reconcile4 ,,different ,,methods ,,have ,,been ,,adopted4 ,one will tell you to keep them warm1 another to keep them cold2 to keep them in the sun1 out of the sun1 bury them in the ground1 put them in the cellar1 the chamber1 wood-house1 and other places1 and no places at all2 that is1 to let them remain as they are1 without any attention4 ,here are plans enough to drive the inexperienced into despair4 ,yet ,i have no doubt but that bees have been sometimes successfully wintered by all these contradictory methods4 ,that some of these methods are superior to others1 needs no argument to illustrate4 ,but what method is best1 is our province to inquire4 ,let us endeavor to examine the subject without prejudice to bias our judgment4 ,,the ,,idea ,,of ,,bees ,,not ,,freezing ,,has ,,led ,,to ,,errors ,,in ,,practice4 ,by close observation we shall probably discover that the assertion so often repeated1 that bees have never frozen except when without honey1 has led to an erroneous practice4 ,,appearance ,,of ,,bees ,,in ,,cold ,,weather4 ,we will first endeavor to examine the condition of a stock left to nature1 without any care1 and see if it affords any hints for our guidance1 when to assist and protect with artificial means4 ,warmth being the first requisite1 a family of bees at the approach of cold weather crowd together in a globular form1 into a compass corresponding to the degree of cold2 when at zero it is much less than at thirty above4 ,those on the outside of this cluster are somewhat stiffened with cold2 while those inside are as brisk and lively as in summer4 ,in severe weather every possible space within their circle is occupied2 even each cell not containing pollen or honey will hold a bee4 ,suppose this cluster is sufficiently compact for mutual warmth1 with the mercury at #dj1 and a sudden change brings it down to zero1 in a few hours1 this body of bees1 like most other things1 speedily contracts by the cold4 ,the bees on the outside1 being already chilled1 a portion of them that does not keep up with the shrinking mass1 is left exposed at a distance from their fellows1 and receive but little benefit of the warmth generated there2 they part with their vitality1 and are lost4 ,,how ,,part ,,of ,,the ,,swarm ,,is ,,frozen4 ,a good family will form a ball or circle about eight inches in diameter1 generally about equal every way1 and must occupy the spaces between four or five combs4 ,as combs must separate them into divisions1 the two outer ones are smallest1 and most exposed of any2 these are often found frozen to death in severe weather4 ,should evidence be wanting from other sources to show that bees will freeze to death1 the above would seem to furnish it4 ,it is said1 that in ,poland bees are wintered in a semi-torpid state1 in consequence of the extreme cold4 ,we must either doubt the correctness of this relation1 or suppose the bee of that country a different insect from ours--a kind of semi-wasp1 that will live through the winter1 and eat little or nothing4 ,the reader can have no difficulty in deciding which is the most probable1 whether bees are bees throughout the world1 endowed with the same faculties and instincts1 or that the facts as they are1 are not precisely given1 especially when we see what our own apiarians tell us about their never freezing4 ,here ,i might use strong language in contradiction2 but as ,i am aware that such a course is not always the most convincing1 ,i prefer the test of close observation4 ,if bees will freeze1 it is important to know it1 and in what circumstances4 ,,how ,a ,,small ,,family ,,may ,,all ,,freeze4 ,suppose a quart of bees were put in a box or hive where all the cells were filled and lengthened out with honey2 the spaces between the combs would be about one-fourth of an inch--only room for one thickness of bees to spread through4 ,the combs would perhaps be one and a half or two inches thick4 ,all the warmth that could be generated then1 would be by one course or layer of bees1 an inch and a half apart4 ,although every bee would have food in abundance without changing its position1 the first turn of severe weather would probably destroy the whole4 ,this1 it may be said1 is an unnatural situation4 ,i will admit that it is2 the case was only supposed for illustration4 ,i know that their winter quarters are among the brood combs1 where the hatching of the brood leaves most of the cells empty2 and the space between the combs is half an inch2 a wise and beautiful arrangement2 as ten times the number of bees can pack themselves within a circle of six inches1 as can in the other case2 and in consequence the same number of bees can secure much more animal heat1 and endure the cold much better2 but a small family1 even here1 will often be found frozen1 as well as starving4 ,,frost ,,and ,,ice ,,sometimes ,,smother ,,bees4 ,besides freezing1 there are other facts to be observed in stocks which stand in the cold4 ,if we examine the interior of a hive containing a medium-sized swarm1 on the first severely cold morning1 except in the immediate vicinity of the bees1 we shall find the combs and sides of the hive covered with a white frost4 ,in the middle of the day1 or as soon as the temperature is slightly raised1 this begins to melt1--first next to the bees1 then at the sides4 ,a succession of cold nights will prevent the evaporation of this moisture2 and this process of freezing and thawing1 at the end of a week or two1 will form icicles sometimes as large as a man's finger1 attached to the combs and the sides of the hive4 ,when the bottom of the hive is close to the floor1 it forms a sealing around the edges1 perfectly air-tight1 and your bees are smothered4 ,i have frequently heard bee-keepers say in these cases1 ,the storm blew in1 and formed ice all round the bottom1 and froze my bees to death4 ,others that have had their bees in a cold room1 finding them thus1 could not see how the water and ice could get there any way2 were quite sure it was not there when carried in1 c4 ,probably they never dreamed of its being accounted for philosophically1 and to analyze anything pertaining to bees would be rather small business4 ,but what way can it be accounted for8 ,,frost ,,and ,,ice ,,in ,a ,,hive ,,accounted ,,for4 ,physiologists tell us that innumerable pores in the cuticle of the human body are continually throwing off waste or worn out matter2 that every exhalation of air carries with it a portion of water from the system1 in warm weather unperceived1 but will be condensed into particles large enough to be seen in a cold atmosphere4 ,now1 if analogy be allowed here1 we will say the bee throws of waste matter and water in the same way4 ,its food being liquid1 nearly all will be exhaled--in moderate weather it will pass off1 but in the cold it is condensed--the particles lodge on the combs in form of frost1 and accumulate as long as the weather is very severe1 a portion melting in the day1 and freezing again at night4 ,,the ,,effect ,,of ,,ice ,,or ,,frost ,,on ,,bees ,,and ,,comb4 ,when the bees are not smothered1 this water in the hive is the source of other mischief4 ,the combs are quite certain to mould4 ,the water mould or dampness on the honey renders it thin1 and unhealthy for the bees1 causing dysentery1 or the accumulation of faeces that they are unable to retain4 ,when the hive contains a very large family1 or a very small one1 there will be less frost on the combs1--the animal heat of the first will drive it off2 in the latter there will be but little exhaled4 ,,frost ,,may ,,cause ,,starvation4 ,this frost is frequently the cause of medium or small families starving in cold weather1 even when there is plenty of honey in the hive4 ,suppose all the honey in the immediate vicinity of the cluster of bees is exhausted1 and1 the combs in every direction from them are covered with frost2 if a bee should leave the mass and venture among them for a supply1 its fate would be as certain as starvation4 ,and without timely intervention of warmer weather1 they must perish6 ,,other ,,difficulties4 ,should they escape starving1 there is another difficulty often attending them in continued cold weather4 ,i said that small families exhaled but little4 ,let us see if we can explain the effect4 ,there is not sufficient animal heat generated to exhale the aqueous portion of their food4 ,the philosophy that explains why a man in warm blood and in profuse perspiration would throw off or exhale more moisture than in a quiet state1 will illustrate this4 ,the bees in these circumstances must retain the water with the excrementitious part1 which soon distends their bodies to the utmost1 rendering them unable to endure it long4 ,their cleanly habits1 that ordinarily save the combs from being soiled1 is not a sure protection now1 and they are compelled to leave the mass very often in the severest weather1 to expel this unnatural accumulation of faeces4 ,it is frequently discharged even before leaving the comb1 but most of it at the entrance2 also some scattered on the front side of the hive1 and a short distance from it4 ,in a moderately warm day1 more bees will issue from a hive in this condition than from others2 it appears that a part of them are unable to discharge their burden--their weight prevents their flying--they get down and are lost4 ,when cold weather is too long continued1 they cannot wait for warm days to leave1 but continue to come out at any time2 and not one of such can then return4 ,the cluster inside the hive is thus reduced in numbers till they are unable to generate heat sufficient to keep from freezing4 ,with the indications attendant upon such losses1 my own observation has made me somewhat familiar1 as the following conversation will illustrate4 ,,further ,,illustrations4 ,a neighbor who wished to purchase some stock hives in the fall1 requested my assistance in selecting them4 ,we applied to a perfect stranger2 his bees had passed the previous winter in the open air4 ,i found on looking among them that he had lost some of them from this cause1 as the excrement was yet about the entrance of one old weather-beaten hive1 that was now occupied by a young swarm1 and was about half filled with combs4 ,i saw at once what had been the matter1 and felt quite confident that ,i could give its owner a correct history of it4 ,sir1 said ,i1 you have been unfortunate with the bees that were in this hive last winter2 ,i think ,i can give you some particulars respecting it4 ,ah1 what makes you think so8 ,i would like to hear you guess2 to encourage you1 ,i will admit that there has been something rather peculiar about it4 ,one year ago you considered that a good stock-hive2 it was well filled with honey1 a good family of bees1 and two or three years old or more4 ,you had as much confidence in its wintering as any other2 but during the cold weather1 somehow1 the bees unaccountably disappeared1 leaving but a very few1 and they were found frozen to death4 ,you discovered it towards spring1 on a warm day4 ,when you removed the combs1 you probably noticed a great many spots of excrement deposited on them1 as well as on the sides of the hive1 particularly near the entrance4 ,also one-half or more of the breeding cells contained dead brood1 in a putrid state2 and this summer you have used the old hive for a new swarm4 ,you are right1 sir1 in every particular4 ,now1 ,i would like to know what gave you the idea of my losing the bees in that hive8 ,i can see nothing peculiar about that old hive1 more than this one1 pointing to another that also contained a new swarm4 ,you will greatly oblige me if you will point out the signs particularly4 ,i will do so with pleasure 7feeling quite willing to give him the impression that ,i was posted up on this subject1 notwithstanding it savored strongly of boasting74 ,i then directed his attention to the entrance in the side of the hive1 where the bees had discharged their faeces1 on the moment they issued1 until it was near the eighth of an inch thick1 and two or three inches broad2 that yet remained1 and just began to cleave off4 ,you see this brown substance around this hole in the hive8 ,yes1 it is bee-glue 7propolis72 it is very common on old hives4 ,i think not2 if you will examine it closely1 you will perceive it is not so hard and bright2 it already begins to crumble2 bee-glue is not affected by the weather for years4 ,just so1 but what is it1 and what has that to do with your guess-work8 ,it is the excrement of the bees4 ,in consequence of a great many cells containing dead brood1 which the bees could not enter1 they were unable to pack themselves close enough to secure sufficient animal heat to exhale or drive off the water in their food1 it was therefore retained in their bodies till they were distended beyond endurance--they were unable to wait for a warm day--necessity compelled them to issue daily during the coldest weather1 discharging their faeces the moment of passing the entrance1 and part of them before4 ,they were immediately chilled1 and could not return2 the quantity left about this entrance shows that a great many must have come out4 ,that they came out in cold weather is proved by its being left on the hive1 because in warm weather they leave the hive for this purpose4 ,this is a new idea2 at present it seems to be correct2 ,i will think it over4 ,but how did you know that it was not a new swarm2 that it was well filled8 ,when looking under it just now1 ,i saw that combs of a dark color had been attached to the sides near the bottom1 below where those are at present2 this indicates that it had been full1 and the dark color that it was not new4 ,also1 a swarm early and large enough to fill such a hive the first season1 would not be very likely to be affected by the cold in this way4 ,why not8 ,i think this hive was crowded with bees as much as any of my new swarms4 ,i have no doubt they appeared so2 but we are very liable to be deceived in such cases1 by the dead brood in the combs4 ,a moderate-sized family in such a hive will make more show than some larger ones that have empty cells to creep into1 and can pack closer4 ,but how did you know about the dead brood8 ,because old stocks are thus often reduced and lost4 ,what were the indications of its being filled with honey8 ,combs are seldom attached to the side of the hive farther down than they are filled with honey4 ,in this hive the combs had been attached to the bottom1 consequently must have been full4 ,another thing1 unless the family is very much reduced1 the hive is generally well stored1 even when diseased4 ,why did you suppose it was near spring before ,i discovered it8 ,i took the chances of guessing4 ,the majority of bee-keepers1 you know1 are rather careless1 and when they have fixed their bees for winter1 seldom give them much more attention1 till they begin to fly out in the spring4 ,but what should ,i have done had ,i discovered the bees coming out8 ,as it was affected with dead brood1 it was but little use to do anything2 you would have lost it eventually4 ,but if it had been a stock otherwise healthy1 and was affected in this way only because it was a small family1 or the severity of the weather1 you could have taken it to a warm room1 and turned it bottom up2 the animal heat would then convert the most of the water contained in their food into vapor2 that would rise from the hive1 and the bees could retain the excrementitious portion without difficulty till spring4 ,i suppose you must get along without losing many through the winter1 if ,i may judge by your confident explanations4 ,i can assure you ,i have but little fear on this head4 ,if ,i can have the privilege of selecting proper stocks1 ,i will engage not to lose one in a hundred4 ,how do you manage8 ,i would be glad to obtain a method in which ,i could feel as perfectly safe as you appear to4 ,the first important requisite is to have all good ones to start with4 ,enough weak families are united together till they are strong1 or some other disposition made of them4 ,i then gave him an outline of my method of wintering1 which ,i can confidently recommend to the reader4 ,,accumulation ,,of ,,faeces ,,described ,,by ,,some ,,writers ,,as ,a ,,disease4 ,this accumulation of faeces is considered by many writers as a disease--a kind of dysentery4 ,it is described as affecting them towards spring1 and several remedies are given4 ,now if what ,i have been describing is not the dysentery1 why ,i must think ,i never had a case of it2 but ,i shall still persist in guessing it to be the same1 and suppose that inattention with many must be the reason that it is not discovered in cold weather1 at the time that it takes place4 ,some stocks may be badly affected1 yet not lost entirely1 when moderate weather will stop its progress4 ,when a remedy is applied in the spring1 long after the cause ceases to operate1 it would be singular if it was not effectual4 ,i have no doubt but some have taken the natural discharge of faeces1 that always takes place in spring when the bees leave the hive1 for a disease4 ,others1 when looking for a cause for diseased brood1 and found the combs and hive somewhat besmeared1 have assigned this as sufficient2 but according to my view1 have reversed it1 giving the effect before the cause4 ,,the ,,author',s ,,remedy4 ,for a time1 ,i supposed that this moisture on the combs gradually mixed with the honey1 making it thin1 and that the bees eating so much water with their food1 would affect them as described4 ,some experiments that followed1 induced me to assign cold as the cause1 as ,i always found1 when ,i put them where it was sufficiently warm1 that an immediate cure was the result1 or at least1 it enabled them to retain their faeces till set out in the spring4 ,,burying ,,bees4 ,burying bees in the earth below the frost1 has been recommended as a superior method of wintering1 for small families4 ,i have known it confidently asserted1 that they would lose nothing in weight1 and no bees would die4 ,i found1 in testing it1 that a medium quantity of honey sufficed1 and but very few were lost1 perhaps less than by any other method4 ,yet the combs were mouldy1 and unfit for further use4 ,there was no escape for the vapor and dampness of the earth4 ,this did not satisfy me2 it only cured one disease by instituting another4 ,i saved the bees1 7and perhaps some honey71 but the combs were spoiled4 ,,experiments ,,of ,,the ,,author ,,to ,,get ,,rid ,,of ,,the ,,frost4 ,i wished to keep them warm1 and save the bees as well as honey1 and at the same time1 get rid of the moisture4 ,i found that a large family expelled it much better than small ones2 and if all were put together in a close room1 the animal heat from a large number combined1 would be an advantage to the weak ones1 at least1--this proved of some benefit4 ,yet ,i found on the sides of a glass hive1 that large drops of water would stand for weeks4 ,,success ,,in ,,this ,,matter4 ,the following suggestion then came to my relief4 ,if this hive was bottom up1 what would prevent all this vapor as it arises from the bees from passing off8 7,it always rises when warm1 if permitted47 ,the hive was inverted2 in a few hours the glass was dry4 ,this was so perfectly simple1 that ,i wondered ,i had not thought of it before1 and wondered still more that some one of the many intelligent apiarians had never discovered it4 ,i immediately inverted every hive in the room1 and kept them in this way till spring2 when the combs were perfectly bright1 not a particle of mould to be seen1 and was well satisfied with the result of my experiment4 ,although ,i was fearful that more bees would leave the hives when inverted1 than if right side up1 yet the result showed no difference4 ,i had now tried both methods1 and had some means of judging4 ,,bees ,,when ,,in ,,the ,,house ,,should ,,be ,,kept ,,perfectly ,,dark4 ,when not kept perfectly dark1 a few would leave the hives in either case4 ,i have found it much better to make the room dark to keep the bees in the hive1 than to tie over them a thin muslin cloth1 as that prevents a free passage of the vapor1 and a great number of full stocks were not at all satisfied in confinement2 and were continually worrying1 and biting at the cloth1 till they had made several holes through it for passages out4 ,thus the little good was attended by an evil1 as an offset4 ,even wire cloth put over to confine them1 which would be effectual1 would not save bees enough to pay expense4 ,i have thus wintered them for the last ten years1 and am extremely doubtful if a better way can be found4#ag ,for several years ,i made use of a small bed-room in the house1 made perfectly dark1 in which ,i put about #ajj stocks4 ,it was lathed and plastered1 and no air admitted1 except what might come through the floor4 ,it was single1 and laid rather close1 though not matched4 #ag ,i was so well pleased with my success1 especially with small families1 that ,i detailed the most important points in a communication to the ,dollar ,newspaper1 ,philadelphia1 published ,november1 #ahdh4 ,a ,,room ,,made ,,for ,,wintering ,,bees4 ,in the fall of #ahdi ,i built a room for this purpose2 the frame was eight by sixteen feet square1 and seven high1 without any windows4 ,a good coat of plaster was put on the inside1 a space of four inches between the siding and lath was filled with saw-dust2 under the bottom ,i constructed a passage for the admission of air1 from the north side2 another over head for its exit1 to be closed and opened at pleasure1 in moderate weather1 to give them fresh air1 but closed when cold1 and so arranged as to exclude all the light4 ,a partition was extended across near the centre4 ,this was to prevent disturbing the whole by letting in light when carrying them out in the spring4 ,by closing the door of this partition1 those in one room only need be disturbed at once4 ,,manner ,,of ,,stowing ,,away ,,bees4 ,shelves to receive the hives were arranged in tiers one above the other2 they were loose1 to be taken down and put up at pleasure4 ,suppose we begin at the back end3 the first row is turned directly on the floor1 a shelf is then put across a few inches above them1 and filled1 and then another shelf1 still above1 when we again begin on the floor1 and continue thus till the room is full2 or if the room is not to be filled1 the shelves may be fixed around the sides of the room in two or three courses4 ,this last arrangement will make it very convenient to inspect them at any time through the winter1 yet they should be disturbed as little as possible4 ,the manner of stowing each one is to open the holes in the top1 then lay down two square sticks1 such as are made by splitting a board1 of suitable length1 into pieces about an inch wide4 ,the hive is inverted on these2 it gives a free circulation through the hive1 and carries off all the moisture as fast as generated4 ,,temperature ,,of ,,room4 ,the temperature of such a room will vary according to the number and strength of the stocks put in2 #ajj or more would be very sure to keep it above the freezing point at all times4 ,putting a very few into such a room1 and depending on the bees to make it warm enough1 would be of doubtful utility4 ,if these means will not keep the proper temperature1 probably some other method would be better4 ,all full stocks would do well enough1 as they would almost any way4 ,yet ,i shall recommend housing them whenever practicable4 ,if the number of stocks is few1 let the room be proportionably small4#ah ,it is the smallest families that are most trouble3 if they are too cold1 it may be known by bees leaving the hive in cold weather1 and spots of excrement on the combs2 they should then have some additional protection2 close part or all of the holes in the top1 cover the open bottom partially or wholly1 and confine to the hive as much as possible the animal heat2 when these means fail1 it may be necessary to take them to a warm room1 during the coldest weather4 #ah ,as an additional proof that this method of inverting hives in the house for winter is valuable1 ,i would say that ,mr4 ,miner1 author of the ,american ,bee-,keeper's ,manual1 seems fully to appreciate it4 ,in4 the fall of #ahej1 ,i communicated to him this method2 giving my reasons for preferring it to the cold method recommended in his ,manual4 ,the trial of one winter1 it appears1 satisfied him of its superiority1 so much so that within a year from that time he published an essay recommending it2 but advised confining the bees with muslin1 c4 ,,too ,,much ,,honey ,,may ,,sometimes ,,be ,,stored4 ,after the flowers fail1 and all the brood has matured and left the combs1 it sometimes happens that a stock has an opportunity of plundering1 and rapidly filling all those cells that had been occupied with brood during the yield of honey1 and which then effectually prevents their storing in them4 ,this1 then1 prevents close packing1 which is all-important for warmth4 ,although a large family1 as much care is needed as with the smaller ones4 ,also such as are affected with diseased brood should receive extra attention for the same reason4 ,some bee-keepers are unwilling to risk the bold measure of inverting the hive1 but content themselves by merely opening the holes in the top2 this is better than no ventilation1 but not so effectual1 as all of the moisture cannot escape4 ,there are some who cannot divest themselves of the idea1 that if the hive is turned over1 the bees must also stand on their heads all winter6 ,rats and mice1 when they find their way into such room1 are less bold with their mischief than if the hive is in its natural position4 ,,management ,,of ,,room ,,towards ,,spring4 ,a few warm days will often occur1 towards spring1 before we can get our bees out4 ,in these cases1 a bushel or two of snow or ice pounded up should be spread on the floor2 it will absorb and carry off as it melts much of the heat1 that is now unnecessary1 and will keep them quiet much longer than without it2 7provision for getting rid of this water should be made when putting down the floor47 ,,time ,,for ,,setting ,,out ,,bees4 ,the time for carrying out bees is generally in ,march1 but some seasons later4 ,a warm pleasant day is the best1 and one quite cold1 better than one only moderately warm4 ,after their long confinement1 the light attracts them out at once1 7unless very cold air prevents71 and if the rays of a warm sun do not keep them active1 they will soon be chilled and lost4 ,some bee-keepers take out their stocks at evening4 ,if we could be always sure of having the next day a fair one1 it would probably be the best time2 but should it be only moderate1 or cloudy1 it would be attended with considerable loss--or if the next day should be quite cold1 but few would leave1 and then the only risk would be to get a good day1 before one that was just warm enough to make them leave the hive1 but not quite enough to enable them to return4 ,,not ,,too ,,many ,,stocks ,,taken ,,out ,,at ,,once4 ,when too many are taken out at once1 the rush from all the hives is so much like a swarm1 that it appears to confuse them4 ,some of the stocks by this means will get more bees than actually belong to them1 while others are proportionably short1 which is unprofitable1 and to equalize them is some trouble2 yet it may be done4 ,being all wintered in one room1 the scent or the means of distinguishing their own family from strangers1 becomes so much alike1 that they mix together without contention4 ,,families ,,may ,,be ,,equalized4 ,by taking advantage of this immediately1 or before the scent has again changed1 and each hive has something peculiar to itself1 you can change the stands of very weak and very strong families4 ,to prevent1 as far as possible1 some of these bad effects1 ,i prefer waiting for a fair day to begin1 and then not until the day has become sufficiently warm to make it safe from chill4 ,,snow ,,need ,,not ,,always ,,prevent ,,carrying ,,out ,,bees4 ,i am not particular about the snow being gone--if it has only lain long enough to have melted a part of it1 it is terra firma to a bee1 and answers equally well as the bare earth4 ,when the day is right1 about ten o'clock ,i put out twelve or fifteen1 taking care that each hive occupies its old stand1 at the same time endeavoring to take such as will be as far apart as possible2 7to make this convenient1 they should be carried in in the manner that you wish them to come out47 ,when the rush from these hives is over1 and the majority of the bees has gone back1 ,i set out as many more about twelve o'clock1 and when the day continues fair1 another lot about two4 ,in the morning1 while cool1 ,i move from the back to the first apartment1 about as many as ,i wish to set out in a day1 except a few at the last4 ,to do this in the middle of the day1 while warm1 would induce a good many bees to leave the hive1 while the light was admitted1 and which would be lost4 ,it will be supposed generally that their long confinement makes them thus impatient to get out2 but ,i have frequently returned stocks during a cold turn of weather after they had been out1 and always found such equally as anxious to come out1 as those which had been confined throughout the winter2 without the airings1 ,i have kept them thus confined1 for five months1 without difficulty6 ,the important requisites are1 sufficient warmth and perfect darkness4 ,,does ,,not ,,analogy ,,prove ,,that ,,bees ,,should ,,be ,,kept ,,warm ,,in ,,winter8 ,opposition to this method of wintering will arise with those who have always thought that bees must be kept cold2 the colder the better4 ,i would suggest for their consideration the possibility of some analogy between bees and some of the warm-blooded animals--the horse1 ox1 and sheep1 for instance1 that require a constant supply of food1 that they may generate as much caloric as is thrown off on the cold air4 ,this seems to be regulated by the degree of cold1 else why do they refuse the large quantity of tempting provender in the warm days of spring1 and greedily devour it in the pelting storm8 ,the fact is pretty well demonstrated1 that the quantity of food needed for the same condition in spring1 is much less when protected from the inclemency of the weather1 than when exposed to the severe cold4 ,the bee1 unlike the wasp1 when once penetrated with frost1 is dead--their temperature must be kept considerably above the freezing point1 and to do this1 food is required4 ,now if the bees are governed by the same laws1 and cold air carries off more heat than warm1 and their source of renewing it is in the consumption of honey in proportion to the degree of cold1 common sense would say1 keep them warm as possible4 ,as a certain degree of heat is necessary in all stocks1 it may take about such a quantity of honey to produce it1 and this may explain why a small family requires about the same amount of food as others that are very large4 ,,the ,,next ,,best ,,place ,,for ,,wintering ,,bees4 ,a dry1 warm cellar is the next best place for wintering them2 the apiarian having one perfectly dark1 with room to spare1 will find it a very good place1 in the absence of a room above ground4 ,if a large number was put in1 some means of ventilation should be contrived for warm turns of weather4 ,i know an apiarian1 who by my suggestion has wintered from sixty to eighty stocks in this way1 for the last six years1 with perfect success1 not having lost one4 ,another has wintered thirty with equal safety4 ,as for burying them in the earth1 ,i have not the least doubt1 if a dry place should be selected1 the hive inverted1 and surrounded with hay1 straw1 or some substance to absorb the moisture1 and protected from the rain1 at the top of the covering1 that perfect success would attend the experiment4 ,but this is only theory2 when ,i tried the experiment of burying1 and had the combs mould1 the hives ware right side up4 ,,evils ,,of ,,winterings ,,in ,,the ,,open ,,air ,,considered4 ,as a great many bee-keepers will find it inconvenient1 or be unable to avail themselves of my method of wintering1 it will be well enough to see how far the evils of the open air1 which we have already glanced at1 may be successfully avoided4 ,i am told by those who have tried wintering them in straw hives1 that in this respect they are much safer than those made of boards2 probably the straw will absorb the moisture4 ,but as these hives are more trouble to construct1 and their shape will prevent the use of suitable boxes for surplus honey1 this one advantage will hardly balance the loss4 ,they are said also to be more liable to injury from the moth4 ,we want a hive that will unite advantageously as many points as possible4 ,it should be remembered that bees always need air1 especially in the cold4#ai ,with this in view1 we will try to dispose of the vapor or frost4 ,if the hive is raised sufficient to let it out1 it will let in the mice2 to prevent which1 it should be raised only about one-fourth of an inch4 ,the hole in the side should be nearly covered with wire cloth to keep out the mice2 but give a passage for the bees2 otherwise they collect here1 endeavoring to get out1 and remain till chilled1 and thus perish by hundreds4 ,the boxes on the top must be removed1 but not the cap or cover2 the holes all opened1 to let the vapor pass up into the chamber2 if this is made with perfectly close joints1 so that no air escapes1 it should be raised a very little2 otherwise not4 ,the moisture will condense on the sides and top1 when it melts will follow the sides to the bottom1 and pass out2 the rabbeting around the top of the hive will prevent its getting to the holes1 and down among the bees4 ,it will be easily comprehended1 that a hole between each two combs at the top1 7as mentioned in the subject of putting on the boxes17 will ventilate the hive much better than where there is but one or two1 or where there is a row of several1 and all are between two combs4 #ai ,it is presumed that the inexperienced will soon learn to distinguish such bees1 as die from old age or natural causes1 from those affected by the cold4 ,,but ,,little ,,risk ,,with ,,good ,,stocks4 ,all good stocks may be wintered in this way1 with but little risk in most situations4 ,whether in the bleak north-wind1 buried in a snow-bank1 or situated warm and pleasant1 it will make no great difference4 ,the mice cannot enter2 the holes give them air1 and carry off moisture1 c4 ,but second-rate stocks are not equally safe in cold situations4 ,,effect ,,of ,,keeping ,,second-,,rate ,,stocks ,,out ,,of ,,the ,,sun4 ,it has been strongly urged1 without regard to the strength of the stock1 to keep them all out of the sun2 because an occasional warm day would call out the bees1 when they get on the snow1 and perish2 this is a loss1 to be sure1 but there is such a thing as inducing a greater one by endeavoring to avoid this4 ,i have said in another place that second rate or poor stocks might occasionally starve1 with plenty of stores in the hive1 on account of frosty combs4 ,if the hive is kept from the sun1 in the cold1 the periods of temperate weather might not occur as often1 as the bees would exhaust the honey within their circle or cluster4 ,but on the contrary1 when the sun can strike the hive1 it warms up the bees1 and melts the frost more frequently4 ,the bees may then go among their stores and obtain a supply1 generally1 as often as needed4 ,we seldom have a winter without sunny days enough for this purpose2 but should such an one occur1 stocks of this class should be brought into a warm room1 once in four or five days1 for a few hours at a time1 to give them a chance to get at the honey4 ,stocks much below second-rate cannot be wintered successfully in this climate2 the only place for them is the warm room4 ,i have known bees thoroughly covered in a snow-drift1 and their owner was at considerable trouble to shovel the snow away1 fearing it would smother them4 ,this is unnecessary1 when protected from the mice and ventilated as just directed2 a snow-bank is about as comfortable a place as they can have1 except in the house4 ,when examined a short time after being so covered1 the snow for a space of about four inches on every side of the hive is found melted1 and none but quite poor stocks would be likely to suffer with this protection4 ,a little snow around the bottom1 without a vent in the side of the hive1 might smother them4 ,,effects ,,of ,,snow ,,considered4 ,as for bees getting on the snow1 ,i apprehend that not many more are lost there1 than on the frozen earth2 that is1 in the same kind of weather4 ,i have seen them chilled1 and lost on the ground by hundreds1 when a casual observer would not have noticed them2 whereas1 had they been on the snow1 at the distance of several rods1 every bee would have been conspicuous4 ,snow is not to be dreaded as much as chilly air4 ,suppose a hive stands in the sun throughout the winter1 and bees are allowed to leave when they choose1 and a portion are lost on the snow1 and that it was possible to number all that were lost by getting chilled1 throughout the season1 on the bare earth--the proportion 7in my opinion7 lost on the snow would not be one in twenty4 ,a person that has not closely observed during damp or chilly weather1 in ,april1 ,may1 or even the summer months1 has no adequate conception of the number4 ,yet1 ,i do not wish to be understood that it is of no consequence what are lost on the snow1 by any means4 ,on the contrary1 a great many are lost1 that might be saved with proper care4 ,but ,i would like to impress the fact1 that frozen earth is not safe without warm air1 any more than snow1 when crusted1 or a little hard4 ,even when snow is melting1 it is solid footing for a bee2 they can and do rise from it1 with the same ease as from the earth4 ,bees that perish on snow in these circumstances1 would be likely to be lost if there was none4 ,,stocks ,,to ,,be ,,protected ,,on ,,some ,,occasions4 ,the worst time for them to leave the hive is immediately after a new snow has fallen1 because if they light on it then1 it does not sustain their weight2 and they soon work themselves down out of the rays of the sun1 and perish4 ,should it clear off pleasant1 after a storm of this kind1 a little attention will probably be remunerated4 ,also1 when the weather is moderately warm1 and not sufficiently so to be safe1 they should be kept in1 whether snow is on the ground or otherwise4 ,for this purpose1 a wide board should be set up before the hive to protect it from the sun1 at least above the entrance in the side4 ,but if it grows sufficiently warm so that bees leave the hive when so shaded1 it is a fair test by which to tell when it will do to let them have a good chance to sally out freely1 except in cases of a new snow1 when it is advisable to confine them to the hive4 ,the hive might be let down on the floor-board1 and the wire-cloth cover the passage in the side1 and made dark for the present2 raising the hive at night again1 as before4 ,i have known hundreds of stocks wintered successfully without any such care being taken1 and the bees allowed to come out whenever they chose to do so4 ,their subsequent health and prosperity proving that it is not altogether ruinous4 ,it has been recommended to enclose the whole hive by a large box set over it1 and made perfectly dark1 with means for ventilation1 c4 7,a snow-bank would answer equally well1 if not better47 ,for large families it would do well enough1 as would also other methods4 ,but ,i would much rather take the chances of letting them all stand in the sun1 and issue as they please1 than to have the warmth of the sun entirely excluded from the moderate-sized families4 ,i never knew a whole stock lost by this cause alone4#bj ,yet1 ,i have known a great many starved1 merely because the sun was not allowed to melt the frost on the combs1 and give them a chance to get at their stores4 #bj ,vide other causes of loss1 a few pages back4 ,,do ,,the ,,bees ,,eat ,,more ,,when ,,allowed ,,to ,,come ,,out ,,occasionally ,,in ,,winter8 ,besides the loss of bees on the snow when standing in the sun1 and taking an airing occasionally1 there are some economical bee-keepers who urge this disadvantage1 that every time bees come out in winter they discharge their excrement1 and eat more honey in consequence of the vacant room4 ,what a ridiculous absurdity it would be to apply this principle to the horse1 whose health1 strength1 and vital heat is sustained by the assimilation of food6 and the farmer is not to be found who would think of saving his provender by the same means4 ,that bees are supported in cold weather on the same principle is indicated strongly1 if not conclusively4 ,is it not better 7if what has been said on the subject of wintering bees is correct7 to keep our bees warm and comfortable when practicable1 as a means of saving honey8 ,to winter bees in the best manner1 considerable care is required4 ,whenever you are disposed to neglect them1 you should bear in mind that one early swarm is worth two late ones2 their condition in spring will often decide this point4 ,like a team of cattle or horses when well wintered1 they are ready for a good season's work1 but when poorly wintered have to recruit a long time before they are worth much4 ,,chapter ,,xxiii4 ,,sagacity ,,of ,,bees4 ,,are ,,not ,,bees ,,directed ,,alone ,,by ,,instinct8 ,on this subject ,i have but little to say1 as ,i have failed to discover anything uncommonly remarkable1 separate and distinct in one swarm1 that another would not exhibit4 ,i have found one swarm guided alone by instinct1 doing just what another would under the same circumstances4 ,writers1 not contented with the astonishing results of instinct1 with their love of the marvellous1 must add a good share of reason to their other faculties1--an adaptation of means to ends1 that reason alone could produce4 ,it is very true1 without close inspection1 and comparing the results of different swarms in similar cases1 one might arrive at such conclusion4 ,it is difficult1 as all will admit1 to tell where instinct ends1 and reason begins4 ,instances of sagacity1 like the following1 have been mentioned4 ,when the weather is warm1 and the heat inside is somewhat oppressive1 a number of bees may be seen stationed around the entrance1 vibrating their wings4 ,those inside will turn their heads towards the passage1 while those outside will turn theirs the other way4 ,a constant agitation of air is thus created1 thereby ventilating the hive more effectually4 ,all full stocks do this in hot weather4 ,,what ,,they ,,do ,,with ,,propolis4 ,a snail had entered the hive and fixed itself against the glass side4 ,the bees1 unable to penetrate it with their stings1 the cunning economists fixed it immovably1 by cementing merely the edge of the orifice of the shell to the glass with resin1 7propolis71 and thus it became a prisoner for life4 ,now the instinct that prompts the gathering of propolis in ,august1 and filling every crack1 flaw1 or inequality about the hive1 would cement the edges of the snail-shell to the glass1 and a small stone1 block of wood1 chip1 or any substance that they are unable to remove1 would be fastened with it in the same manner4 ,the edges or bottom of the hive1 when in close proximity to the bottom1 is joined to it with this substance4 ,whatever the obstacle may be1 it is pretty sure to receive a coating of this4 ,the stoppers for the holes at the top are held in their places on the same principle2 and the unaccountable sagacity that once fastened a little door1 might possibly be nothing more than the same instinct4 ,another principle1 ,i think1 will be found to be universal with them1 instead of sagacious reasoning4 ,whenever the combs in a hive have been broken1 or when combs have been added1 as was mentioned in the chapter on fall management1 the first duty of the bees appears to be to fasten them as they are2 when the edges are near the side of the hive1 or two combs in contact1 a portion of wax is detached and used for joining them together1 or to the side4 ,,mending ,,broken ,,combs4 ,where two combs do not touch1 and yet are close together1 a small bar is constructed from one to the other1 preventing any nearer approach4 7,this may be illustrated by turning the hive a few inches from the perpendicular after being filled with combs in warm weather47 ,,making ,,passages ,,to ,,every ,,part ,,of ,,their ,,combs4 ,should nearly all the combs in the hive become detached from any cause1 and lie on the bottom in one grand smash of ruin1 their first steps are1 as just described1 pillars from one to the other to keep them as they are4 ,in a few days1 in warm weather1 they will have made passages by biting away combs where they are in contact1 throughout every part of the mass2 little columns of wax below1 supporting the combs above1--irregular1 to be sure1 but as well as circumstances admit4 ,not a single piece can be removed without breaking it from the others1 and the whole will be firmly cemented together4 ,a piece of comb filled with honey1 and sealed up1 may be put in a glass box with the ends of these cells so sealed1 touching the glass4 ,the principle of allowing no part of their tenement to be in a situation inaccessible1 is soon manifested4 ,they immediately bite off the ends of the cells1 remove the honey that is in the way1 and make a passage next to the glass1 leaving a few bars from it to the comb1 to steady and keep it in its position4 ,a single sheet of comb lying flat on the bottom-board of a populous swarm is cut away under side1 for a passage in every direction1 numerous little pillars of wax being left for its support4 ,how any person in the habit of watching their proceedings1 with any degree of attention1 could come at the conclusion that the bees raised such comb by mechanical means and then put under the props for its support1 is somewhat singular4 ,their efforts united for such a purpose like reasonable beings1 ,i never witnessed4 ,these things1 considered as the effect of instinct1 are none the less wonderful on that account4 ,i am not sure but the display of wisdom is even greater than if the power of planning their own operations had been given them4 ,i have mentioned these1 to show that a course of action called forth by the peculiar situation of one family1 would be copied by another in a similar emergency1 without being aware of its ever being done before4 ,were ,i engaged in a work of fiction1 ,i might let fancy reign and endeavor to amuse1 but this is not the object4 ,let us endeavor then to be content with truth1 and not murmur with its reality4 ,when we take a survey of the astonishing regularity with which they construct their combs without a teacher1 and remember that the waxen material is formed in the rings of their body1 that for the first time in life1 without an experienced leader's direction1 they apply a claw to detach it1 that they go forth to the fields and gather stores unbidden by a tyrant's mandate1 and throughout the whole cycle of their operations1 one law and power governs4 ,whoever would seek mind as the directing power1 must look beyond the sensorium of the bee for the source of all we behold in them6 ,,chapter ,,xxiv4 ,,straining ,,honey ,,and ,,wax4 ,when about to remove the contents of a hive1 ,i have never found it necessary to use all the precautions often recommended to prevent the access of bees4 ,i have seen it stated that a room in which there was a chimney open1 would be unsuitable1 as the bees would scent the honey1 and thus find their way down into the room4 ,i never was thus troubled by their perpendicular travelling4 ,it is true1 if the day was warm1 and a door or window was standing open1 the bees would find their way in during a scarcity of honey4 ,but with doors and windows closed no difficulty need be apprehended4 ,,methods ,,of ,,removing ,,combs ,,from ,,the ,,hive4 ,the most convenient way to remove combs from the hive is to take off one of its sides1 but this is apt to split the boards1 if it was properly nailed1 and injure it for subsequent use4 ,with tools such as have been described1 it may be done very nicely1 and leave the hive whole4 ,the chisel should have the bevel all on one side1 like those used by carpenters4 ,when you commence1 turn the flat side next the board of the hive1 and the bevel crowded by the combs will follow it close the whole length2 with the other tool they are cut across the top1 and readily lifted out4 ,if preferred1 they may be cut across near the centre and take out half a sheet at a time2 this is sometimes necessary on account of the cross-sticks4 ,,different ,,methods ,,of ,,straining ,,honey4 ,such combs as are taken from the middle or vicinity of brood-cells1 are generally unfit for the table2 such should be strained4 ,there are several methods of doing it4 ,one is1 to mash the comb and put it in a bag1 and hang it over some vessel to catch the honey as it drains out4 ,this will do very well for small quantities in warm weather1 or in the fall before there is any of it candied4 ,another method is to put such combs into a colander1 and set this over a pan1 and introduce it into an oven after the bread is out4 ,this melts the combs4 ,the honey and a portion of the wax run out together4 ,the wax rises to the top and cools in a cake4 ,it is somewhat liable to burn1 and requires some care4 ,many prefer this method1 as there is less taste of bee-bread1 no cells containing it being disturbed1 but all the honey is not certain to drain out without stirring it4 ,if disposed1 two qualities may be made1 by keeping the first separate4 ,another method is merely to break the combs finely1 and put them into a colander1 and allow the honey to drain out without much heat1 and afterwards skim off the small particles that rise to the top1 or when very particular1 pass the honey through a cloth1 or piece of lace4 ,but for large quantities1 a more expeditious mode is to have a can and strainer1 made for the purpose1 where fifty pounds or more can be worked out at once4 ,the can is made of tin1 twelve or fourteen inches deep1 by about ten or twelve diameter1 with handles on each side at the top1 for lifting it4 ,the strainer is just enough smaller to go down inside the can2 the height may be considerably less1 providing there are handles on each side to pass out at the top2 the bottom is perforated with holes like a colander1 combs are put into this1 and the whole set into a kettle of boiling water1 and heated without any risk of burning1 until all the wax is melted1 7which may be ascertained by stirring it17 when it may be taken out4 ,all the wax1 bee-bread1 c41 will rise in a few minutes4 ,the strainer can now be raised out of the top and set on a frame for the purpose1 or by merely tipping it slightly on one side it will rest on the top of the can4 ,it might be left to cool before raising the strainer1 were it not liable to stick to the sides of the can2 the honey would be full as pure1 and separate nearly as clean from the wax and bee-bread1 c4 ,when raised out before cooling1 the contents should be repeatedly stirred1 or considerable honey will remain4 ,two qualities may be made by keeping the first that runs through separate from the last1 7as stirring it works out the bee-bread74 ,even a third quality maybe obtained by adding a little water1 and repeating the process4 ,this is worth but little4 ,by boiling out the water1 without burning1 and removing the scum1 it will do to feed bees4 ,by adding water until it will just bear a potato1 boiling and skimming1 and letting it ferment1 it will make metheglin1 or by letting the fermentation proceed it will make vinegar4 ,honey that has been heated thoroughly1 will not candy as readily as when strained without heat4 ,a little water may be added to prevent its getting too hard2 but should it get so in cold weather1 it can at any time be warmed1 and water added until it is of the right consistence4 ,,getting ,,out ,,wax--,,different ,,methods4 ,several methods have been adopted for separating the wax4 ,i never found any means of getting out the whole4 ,yet ,i suppose ,i came as near it as any one4 ,some recommend heating it in an oven1 similar to the method of straining honey through the colander1 but ,i have found it to waste more than when melted with water4 ,a better way for small quantities1 is to half fill a coarse stout bag with refuse comb and a few cobble-stones to sink it1 and boil it in a kettle of water1 pressing and turning it frequently till the wax ceases to rise4 ,when the contents of the bag are emptied1 by squeezing a handful1 the particles of wax may be seen1 and you may thereby judge of the quantity thrown away4 ,for large quantities the foregoing process is rather tedious4 ,it can be facilitated by having two levers four or five feet long and about four inches wide1 and fastened at the lower end by a strong hinge4 ,the combs are put into a kettle of boiling water1 and will melt almost immediately2 it is then put into the bag1 and taken between the levers in a wash-tub or other large vessel and pressed1 the contents of the bag shaken1 and turned1 several times during the process1 and if need be returned to the boiling water and squeezed again4 ,the wax1 with a little water1 is now to be remelted and strained again through finer cloth1 into vessels that will mould it into the desired shape4 ,as the sediment settles to the bottom of the wax when melted1 a portion may be dipped off nearly pure without straining4 ,wax in cool weather may be whitened in a short time in the sun1 but it must be in very thin flakes2 it is readily obtained in this shape by having a very thin board or shingle1 which should be first thoroughly wet1 and then dipped into pure melted wax2 enough will adhere to make it the desired thickness1 and will cool instantly on being withdrawn4 ,draw a knife along the edges1 and it will readily cleave off4 ,exposed to the sun in a window or on the snow1 it will become perfectly white1 when it can be made into cakes for market1 where it commands a much higher price than the yellow4 ,it is said there is a chemical process that whitens it readily1 but ,i am not acquainted with it4 ,,chapter ,,xxv4 ,,purchasing ,,stocks ,,and ,,transporting ,,bees4 ,if the reader has no bees1 and yet has had interest or patience to follow me thus far1 it is presumptive evidence that he would possess the requisite perseverance to take charge of them4 ,it would be well1 however1 to remember the anxieties1 perplexities1 and time necessary to take the proper care1 as well as the advantages and profit4 ,but if you are disposed to try the experiment1 very likely some directions for a commencement would be acceptable4 ,,why ,,the ,,word ,,luck ,,is ,,applied ,,to ,,bees4 ,there has been so much uncertainty in stock of this kind1 that the word luck has been made to express too much4 ,some have been successful1 while others have failed entirely2 this has suggested the idea that luck depended on the manner that the stocks were obtained2 and here again there seems to be a variety of opinions1 as is the case always1 when a thing is guessed at4 ,one will assert that the fickle dame is charmed into favor by stealing a stock or two to begin with1 and returning them after a start4 ,another1 7a little more conscientious1 perhaps7 that you must take them without liberty1 to be sure1 but leave an equivalent in money on the stand4 ,another1 that the only way to get up an effectual charm1 is to exchange sheep for them2 and still another says1 that bees must always be a gift4 ,i have had all these methods offered me gratis1 with gravity1 suitable to make an impression4 ,and1 finally1 there has yet another method been found out1 and that is1 when you want a few stocks of bees go and buy them1 yes1 and pay for them too1 in dollars and cents1 or take them for a share of the increase for a time1 if it suits your pecuniary resources best4 ,and you need not depend on any charm or mystic power for your success--if you do1 ,i cannot avoid the unfavorable prediction of a failure4 ,it is true that a few have accidentally prospered for a few years2 ,i say accidentally1 because when they have no true principles of management1 it must be the result of accident4 ,it is a saying with some1 that one man can't have luck but few years at once1 and others none at all1 although he tries the whole routine of charms4 ,nearly twenty years ago1 when my respected neighbor predicted a turn in my luck1 because it was always so1 ,i could not understand the force of this reasoning1 unless it belonged to the nature of bees to deteriorate1 and consequently run out4 ,i at once determined to ascertain this point4 ,i could understand how a farmer would often fail to raise a crop1 if he depended on chance or luck for success1 instead of fixed natural principles4 ,it was possible that bees might be similar4 ,i found that in good seasons the majority of people had luck1 but in poor seasons1 the reverse1 and when two or three occurred in succession1 then was the time to lose their luck4 ,it was evident1 then1 if ,i could pass in safety the poor seasons by any means1 ,i should do well enough in good ones4#ba ,the result has given me but little reason to complain4 ,my advice therefore is1 that reliance should be placed on proper management1 instead of luck1 arising from the manner the first stock was obtained4 ,should any one feel disposed to make you a present of a stock or two of bees1 ,i would advise you to accept the offer and be thankful1 discarding all apprehension of a failure on that account4 ,or if any one is willing you should take some on shares1 this is a cheap way to get a start1 and you have no risk of loss in the old stock4 ,yet if bees prosper1 the interest on the money that stocks cost is a mere trifle in comparison to the value of increase1 and you have the same trouble4 ,on the other hand1 the owner of bees can afford to take care of a few hives more1 for half the profits1 which he has to give if another takes them2 this is apt to be the case1 especially1 with such as have no faith in charms4 #ba ,there are sections of country where the difference in seasons is less than in this4 ,,rule ,,in ,,taking ,,bees ,,for ,a ,,share4 ,the rule generally adopted for taking bees is this4 ,one or more stocks are taken for a term of years1 the person taking them finding hives1 boxes1 and bestowing whatsoever care is necessary1 and returning the old stocks to the owner with half the increase and profits4 ,a ,,man ,,may ,,sell ,,his ,,luck4 ,there are yet a few persons who refuse to sell a stock of bees1 because it is bad luck4 ,there is often some grounds for this notion4 ,it might arise under the following circumstances4 ,suppose a person has a half dozen hives1 three extra good1 the others of the opposite extreme4 ,he sells for the sake of the better price his three best2 there is but little doubt but his best luck would go too6 ,but should his poorest be taken1 the result would be different1 without doubt4 ,but there are cases where an apiarian has more stocks than he wishes to keep4 7,it has been the case with myself frequently47 ,persons wishing to sell1 are the proper ones of which to buy4 ,purchasers seldom want any but first-rate stocks1 they are generally cheapest in the end4 ,there is usually a difference of about a dollar in the spring and fall prices1 and five and six dollars are common charges4 ,i have known them sell at auction at eight1 but in some sections they are less4 ,,first-,,rate ,,stocks ,,recommended ,,to ,,begin ,,with4 ,for a beginning then1 ,i would recommend purchasing none but first-rate stocks2 it will make but little difference in the risk1 whether you obtain them in the spring1 or fall1 if you have read my remarks on winter management with attention2 ,i have already said the requisites for a good stock for winter1 were a numerous family and plenty of honey1 and that the cluster of bees should extend through nearly all the combs1 c4 ,to avoid as far as possible diseased brood1 find an apiary where it has never made its appearance1 to make purchases4 ,there are some who have lost bees by it1 and yet are totally ignorant of the cause4 ,it would be well1 therefore1 to inquire if any stocks have been lost1 and then for the cause--be careful that secondary are not mistaken for primary causes4 ,,old ,,stocks ,,are ,,good ,,as ,,any1 ,,if ,,healthy4 ,when it appears that all are exempt1 7by a thorough examination1 if not satisfied without17 you need not object to stocks two or three years old2 they are just as good as any1 sometimes better1 7providing they have swarmed the season previous1 according to one author2 because such always have young queens1 which are more prolific than old ones1 that will be in all first swarms74 ,old stocks are as prosperous as any1 as long as they are healthy1 yet they are more liable to become diseased4 ,,caution ,,respecting ,,diseased ,,brood4 ,when no apiary from which to purchase can be found1 but where the disease has made its appearance1 and you are necessitated to purchase from such1 or not at all1 you cannot be too cautious about it4 ,it would be safest in this case to take none but young swarms1 as it is not so common for them to be affected the first season1 yet they are not always exempt4 ,but here1 again1 you may not be allowed to take all young stocks2 in which case let the weather be pretty cold1 the bees will be further up among the combs1 and give a chance to inspect the combs4 ,at this season1 say not earlier than ,november1 all the healthy brood will be hatched4 ,sometimes1 a few young bees may be left that have their mature shape1 and probably had been chilled by sudden cold weather--these are not the result of disease1 the bees will remove them the next season1 and no bad results follow4 ,in warm weather a satisfactory inspection can be had no other way1 but by the use of tobacco smoke4 ,be particular to reject all that are affected with the disease in the least2 better do without1 than take such to begin with4 7,a full description has been given of this disease in another place47 ,,result ,,of ,,ignorance ,,in ,,purchasing4 ,a neighbor purchased thirteen stock-hives2 six were old ones1 the others swarms of the last season4 ,as the old hives were heavy1 he of course thought them good2 either he knew nothing of the disease1 or took no trouble to examine2 five of the six old ones were badly affected4 ,four were lost outright1 except the honey2 the fifth lasted through the winter1 and then had to be transferred4 ,he had flattered himself that they were obtained very cheaply1 but when he made out what his good ones cost1 he found no great reason1 in this respect1 for congratulation4 ,,sizes ,,of ,,hives ,,important4 ,another point is worthy of consideration3 endeavor to get hives as near the right size as possible1 viz41 #b1jjj cubic inches2 better too large than too small4 ,if too large1 they may be cut off1 leaving them the proper size4 ,but yet1 it often makes an ungainly shape1 being too large square for the height4 ,as the shape probably makes no difference in the prosperity of the bees1 the appearance is the principal objection1 after being cut off4 ,an acquaintance had purchased a lot of bees in very large hives1 and called on me to know what to do with them1 as he feared such would not swarm well in consequence2 ,i told him it would be doubtful1 unless he cut them off to the right size4 ,cut 'em off6 how can that be done8 there is bees in 'em4 ,so ,i expected1 but it can be done nearly as well as if empty4 ,but don't you get stung dreadfully8 ,not often3 if it is to be done in warm weather1 ,i smoke them well before ,i begin2 in very cold weather is the best time1 then it is unnecessary2 simply turn the hive bottom up1 mark off the proper size1 and with a sharp saw take it off without trouble4 ,some are filled with combs2 you don't cut off such1 do you8 ,certainly2 ,i consider all the room for combs in a hive over #b1jjj inches as worse than lost4 ,what will you ask to cut mine off8 ,if ,i could see it done once1 ,i might do it next time4 ,the charge will be light2 but if you intend to keep bees1 you should learn to do everything pertaining to them1 and not be dependent on any one2 ,i did it before ,i ever saw or heard of its being done4 ,i then gave him full directions how to manage1 but could not persuade him to undertake4 ,,how ,,large ,,hives ,,can ,,be ,,made ,,smaller4 ,a short time after1 ,i attended1 on a cold day1 with a sharp saw1 square1 c4 ,i found his hives fourteen inches square inside1 and eighteen deep1 holding about #c1ejj inches4 ,of this square1 a little more than ten inches in height1 would make just the right size4 ,to work convenient1 ,i inverted the hive on a barrel1 set on end1 marked the length1 and sawed it off1 without a bee leaving4 ,it was very cold1 7mercury at #f deg47 ,the bees came to the edges of the combs1 but the cold drove them back4 ,in a short time ,i had taken off six2 four when done were just about full2 the other two were so when ,i began1 but they were marked and sawed like the rest2 when the combs were attached1 they were severed with a knife1 and the piece of the hive thus loose1 was raised off1 leaving several inches of the combs projecting out of the hive4 ,i now cut off the first comb1 even with the bottom of the hive4 ,on the next comb there were a few bees2 with a quill these were brushed down into the hive2 this piece was then removed1 and the bees on the other side of it were brushed down also4 ,in this way all others were removed1 and left the hive just full4 ,the other full hive1 after it was sawed on each side1 a small wire was drawn through1 parallel with the sheets1 and severed all the combs at once2 each piece was taken out1 and the bees that were clustered on them brushed back2 removing the loose part of the hive1 was the last thing to be done4 ,this last method was preferred to the other by my employer2 yet it was all performed to his satisfaction1 no sting or other difficulty about it1 except the trouble of warming fingers rather frequently4 ,tobacco smoke would have kept them quiet during the operation1 nearly as well4 ,if preferred1 a hive may stand right side up while sawing it4 ,,moderate ,,weather ,,best ,,to ,,remove ,,bees4 ,in transporting your bees1 avoid if possible the two extremes of very cold1 or very warm weather4 ,in the latter the combs are so nearly melted1 that the weight of the honey will bend them1 bursting the cells1 spilling the honey1 and besmearing the bees4 ,in very cold weather1 the combs are brittle1 and easily detached from the sides of the hive4 ,when necessitated to move them in very cold weather1 they should be put up an hour or so before starting4 ,the agitation of the bees after being disturbed will create considerable heat2 a portion of this will be imparted to the combs1 and add to their strength4 ,,preparations ,,for ,,transporting ,,bees4 ,to prepare for moving them1 pieces of thin muslin about half a yard square is as good as anything1 secured by carpet tacks4 ,,securing ,,bees ,,in ,,the ,,hive4 ,the hive is inverted1 and the cloth put over1 neatly folded1 and fastened with a tack at the corners1 and another in the middle4 ,the tack is crowed in about two-thirds of its length1 it then presents the head convenient to pull out4 ,if the bees are to go a great distance1 and require to be shut up several days1 the muslin will be hardly sufficient1 as they would probably bite their way out4 ,something more substantial would then be required4 ,take a board the size of the bottom1 cut out a place in the middle1 and cover with wire cloth1 7like the one recommended for hiving17 and fasten it with tacks4 ,this board is to be nailed on the hive4 ,after the nails are driven1 with the hammer start it off about the eighth of an inch2 it will admit a little air around the sides as well as the middle1 quite necessary for heavy stocks4 ,but very small families might be safe without the wire cloth2 air enough would pass between the hive and board1 except in warm weather4 ,new combs break easier than old4 ,,best ,,conveyance4 ,probably the best conveyance is a wagon with elliptic springs4 ,but a wagon without springs is bad1 especially for young stocks4 ,yet ,i have known them moved safely in this way1 but it required some care in packing with hay1 or straw1 under and around them1 and careful driving4 ,good sleighing will answer very well1 and by some thought to be the best time4 ,,hive ,,to ,,be ,,inverted4 ,whatever conveyance is employed1 the hive should be inverted4 ,the combs will then all rest closely on the top1 and are less liable to break than when right end up1 because then the whole weight of the combs must depend upon the fastenings at the top and sides for support1 and are easily detached and fall4 ,when moving bees1 so reversed1 they will creep upward2 in stocks part full1 they will often nearly all leave the combs1 and get upon the covering4 ,in a short time after being set up1 they will return1 except in very cold weather1 when a few will sometimes freeze2 consequently a warm room is required to put them in for a short time4 ,after carrying them a few miles1 the disposition to sting is generally gone1 yet there are a few exceptions4 ,in moderate weather1 when bees are confined1 they manifest a persevering determination to find their way out1 particularly after being moved1 and somewhat disturbed4 ,i have known them to bite holes through muslin in three days4 ,the same difficulty is often attendant on attempting to confine them to the hive by muslin when in the house in the winter1 except when kept in a cold situation4 ,should any combs become broken1 or detached from their fastenings1 in hives not full1 by moving or other accident1 rendering them liable to fall when set up1 the hive may remain inverted on the stand till warm weather1 if necessary1 and the bees have again fastened them1 which they do soon after commencing work in the spring4 ,if they are so badly broken that they bend over1 rolls of paper may be put between them to preserve the proper distance till secured4 ,when they commence making new combs1 or before1 it is time to turn the right end up4 ,while the hive is inverted1 it is essential that a hole is in the side1 through which the bees may work4 ,a board should fit close over the bottom1 and covered1 to effectually prevent any water from getting among the bees1 c4 ,,conclusion4 ,in conclusion ,i would say1 that the apiarian who has followed me attentively1 and has added nothing of value to his stock of information1 possesses an enviable experience that all should strive to obtain4 ,it has been said that three out of five who commence an apiary must fail2 but let us suppose it is through ignorance or inattention1 and not inherent with the bees4 ,to the beginner then ,i would say1--if you expect to succeed in obtaining one of the most delectable of sweets for your own consumption1 or the profit in dollars and cents1 you will find something more requisite than merely holding the dish to obtain the porridge4 ,,see ,,your ,,bees ,,often1 and know at all times their actual condition4 ,this one recipe is worth more than all others that can be given2 it is at the head of the class of duties2 all others begin here4 ,even the grand secret of successfully combating the worms1--,,keep ,,your ,,bees ,,strong1 must take its rise at this point4 ,with the above motto acted upon1 carried out fully1 and with perseverance1 you cannot well fail to realize all reasonable expectations4 ,avoid over-anxiety for a rapid increase in stocks2 try and be satisfied with one good swarm from a stock annually1 your chances are better than with more2 do not anticipate the golden harvest too soon4 ,you will probably be necessitated to discard some of the extravagant reports of profits from the apiary4 ,yet you will find one stock trebling1 perhaps quadrupling its price or value in products1 while the one beside it does nothing4 ,in some seasons particularly favorable your stocks collectively will yield a return of one or two hundred per cent4--in others1 hardly make a return for trouble4 ,the proper estimate can be made only after a number of years1 when1 if they have been judiciously managed1 and your ideas have not been too extravagant1 you will be fully satisfied4 ,i have known a single stock in one season to produce more than twenty dollars in swarms and honey1 and ninety stocks to produce over nine hundred dollars1 when a few of the number added not a farthing to the amount4 ,i do not wish to hold out inducements for any one to commence bee-keeping1 and end it in disgust and disappointment4 ,but ,i would encourage all suitable persons to try their skill in bee management4 ,i say suitable persons1 because there are many1 very many1 not qualified for the charge4 ,the careless1 inattentive man1 who leaves his bees unnoticed from ,october till ,may1 will be likely to complain of ill success4 ,whoever cannot find time to give his bees the needed care1 but can spend an hour each day obtaining gossip at the neighborhood tavern1 is unfit for this business4 ,but he who has a home1 and finds his affections beginning to be divided between that and his companions of the bar-room1 and wishes to withdraw his interest from unprofitable associates1 and yet has nothing of sufficient power to break the bond1 to what can he apply with a better prospect of success1 than to engage in keeping bees8 ,they make ample returns for each little care4 ,pecuniary advantages are not all that may be gained--a great many points concerning their natural history are yet in the dark1 and many are disputed4 ,would it not be a source of satisfaction to be able to contribute a few more facts to this interesting subject1 adding to the science1 and holding a share in the general fund8 ,supposing all the mysteries pertaining to their economy discovered and elucidated1 precluding all chance of further additions1 would the study be dry and monotonous8 ,on the contrary1 the verification witnessed by ourselves would be so fascinating and instructive1 that we cannot avoid pitying the condition of that man who finds gratification only in the gross and sensual4 ,it has been remarked1 that he who cannot find in this and other branches of natural history a salutary exercise for his mental faculties1 inducing a habit of observation and reflection1 a pleasure so easily obtained1 unalloyed by any debasing mixture--tending to expand and harmonize his mind1 and elevate it to conceptions of the majestic1 sublime1 serene1 and beautiful arrangements instituted by the ,god of nature1 must possess an organization sadly deficient1 or be surrounded by circumstances indeed lamentable4 ,i would recommend the study of the honey-bee as one best calculated to awaken the interest of the indifferent4 ,what can arrest the attention like their structure--their diligence in collecting stores for the future--their secretion of wax and moulding it into structures with a mathematical precision astonishing the profoundest philosophers--their maternal and fraternal affection in regarding the mother's every want1 and assiduous care in nursing her offspring to maturity--their unaccountable display of instinct in emergencies or accidents1 filling the beholder with wonder and amazement8 ,the mind thus contemplating such astonishing operations1 cannot well avoid looking beyond these results to their divine ,author4 ,therefore let every mind that perceives one ray of light from nature's mysterious transactions1 and is capable of receiving the least enjoyment therefrom1 pursue the path still inviting onward in the pursuit4 ,every new acquisition will bring an additional satisfaction1 and assist in the next attempt1 which will be commenced with a renewed and constantly increasing zest2 and will arise from the contemplation a wiser1 better1 and a nobler being1 far superior to those who have never soared beyond the gratifications of the mere animal1 grovelling in the dark4 ,is there1 in the whole circle of nature's exhaustless storehouse1 any one science more inviting than this8 ,what more exalting and refining1 and at the same time making a return in profits as a pecuniary reward8 ,what would be the result in the aggregate of all the honey produced in the flowers of the ,united ,states annually8 ,suppose we estimate the productions of one acre to be one pound of honey1 which is but a small part of the real product in most places2 yet1 as a great many acres are covered with water and forest1#bb this estimate is probably enough for the average4 ,this ,state 7,new ,york7 contains #dg1jjj square miles2 #fdj acres in a square mile will multiply into a little more than #cj1jjj1jjj1 and each acre producing its pound of honey1 we have the grand result of #cj1jjj1jjj lbs4 of honey4 ,if we add the ,states of ,pennsylvania1 ,ohio and ,michigan1 we have an amount of over #abf1jjj1jjj lbs4 ,what it might be by including all the ,states1 those disposed may ascertain4 ,enough for our purpose is made clear1 and that is1 a small item only of an enormous amount is now secured4 #bb ,it should not be forgotten that forest trees are valuable1 especially when there is basswood1 or even maple4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,books ,,published ,,by ,j4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 ,,agricultural ,,book ,,publisher1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,street1 ,,new ,,york1 ,suitable for ,school1 ,town1 ,agricultural and ,private ,libraries4 99 99 99 ,,for ,,sale ,,by ,a4 ,s4 ,,barnes ,,co41 ,corner of ,dutch and ,john-streets1 ,,new ,,york4 99 99 99 ,the ,american ,farm ,book2 ,the ,american ,farm ,book2 or1 a ,compend of ,american ,agriculture1 being a ,practical ,treatise on ,soils1 ,manures1 ,draining1 ,irrigation1 ,grasses1 ,grain1 ,roots1 ,fruits1 ,cotton1 ,tobacco1 ,sugar-,cane1 ,rice1 and every staple product of the ,united ,states2 with the best methods of ,planting1 ,cultivating1 and ,preparation for ,market4 ,illustrated by more than #ajj engravings4 ,by ,r4 ,l4 ,allen4 ,american ,poultry ,yard2 ,the ,american ,poultry ,yard2 comprising the ,origin1 ,history and ,description of the different ,breeds of ,domestic ,poultry1 with complete directions for their ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,fattening1 and ,preparation for ,market2 including specific directions for ,caponizing ,fowls1 and for the ,treatment of the ,principal ,diseases to which they are subject2 drawn from authentic sources and personal observation4 ,illustrated with numerous engravings4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,browne4 ,the ,diseases of ,domestic ,animals2 ,being a ,history and ,description of the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,cattle1 ,sheep1 ,swine1 ,poultry1 and ,farm ,dogs1 with ,directions for their ,management1 ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 and ,preparation for a profitable ,market2 also1 their ,diseases and ,remedies2 together with full ,directions for the ,management of the ,dairy1 and the ,comparative ,economy and ,advantages of ,working ,animals1 the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,oxen1 c4 ,by ,r4 ,l4 ,allen4 ,american ,bee ,keeper's ,manual2 ,being a ,practical ,treatise on the ,history and ,domestic ,economy of the ,honey ,bee1 embracing a full illustration of the whole subject1 with the most approved methods of ,managing this ,insect1 through every branch of its ,culture1 the result of many years' experience4 ,illustrated with many engravings4 ,by ,t4 ,b4 ,miner4 ,the ,modern ,stair ,builder's ,guide2 ,being a ,plain1 ,practical ,system of ,hand ,railing1 embracing all its necessary ,details1 and ,geometrically ,illustrated by ,twenty-two ,steel ,engravings2 together with the ,use of the most important ,principles of ,practical ,geometry4 ,by ,simon ,de ,graff1 ,architect4 ,prize ,essay on ,manures4 ,an ,essay on ,manures1 submitted to the ,trustees of the ,massachusetts ,society for ,promoting ,agriculture1 for their ,premium4 ,by ,samuel ,l4 ,dana4 ,american ,bird ,fancier4 ,considered with reference to the ,breeding1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 ,management1 c1 of ,cage and ,house ,birds4 ,illustrated with engravings4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,browne4 ,cloth1 #ej cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #be cts4 ,american ,architect4 ,the ,american ,architect2 comprising ,original ,designs of cheap ,country and ,village ,residences1 with ,details1 ,specifications1 ,plans1 and ,directions1 and an estimate of the ,cost of each ,design ,by ,john ,w4 ,ritch1 ,architect4 ,first and ,second ,series quarto1 bound in #b vols41 sheep4 #f4 ,mail edition1 paper1 #e4 ,domestic ,medicine4 ,gunn's ,domestic ,medicine2 or1 ,poor ,man's ,friend in the ,hours of ,affliction1 ,pain1 and ,sickness4 ,raymond's new revised edition1 improved and enlarged by ,john ,c4 ,gunn #hvo4 ,sheep4 #c4 ,saxton's ,american ,farmer's ,almanac for #aheb4 ,per #ajj1 #c4 ,family ,kitchen ,gardener4 ,containing ,plain and ,accurate descriptions of all the ,different ,species and ,varieties of ,culinary ,vegetables2 with their ,botanical1 ,english1 ,french1 and ,german names1 alphabetically arranged1 and the best mode of cultivating them in the garden1 or under glass2 also1 ,descriptions and ,character of the most ,select ,fruits1 their ,management ,propagation1 c4 ,by ,robert ,buist1 author of the ,american ,flower ,garden ,directory1 c41 cloth or sheep1 #ge cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #ej cts4 ,practical ,agriculture4 ,being a ,treatise on the ,general ,relations which ,science bears to ,agriculture ,delivered before the ,new ,york ,state ,agricultural ,society1 by ,james ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,f4,r4,s4,s4,s4 and ,k41 ,professor of ,agricultural ,chemistry in ,durham ,university1 and author of ,lectures on ,agricultural ,chemistry1 with ,notes and ,explanations by an ,american ,farmer4 ,cloth1 #ge cts42 mail edition1 paper1 #ej cts4 ,elements of ,agricultural ,chemistry and ,geology4 ,by ,j4 ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,m4,a41 ,f4,r4,s4 #ej cts4 ,youatt and ,martin on ,cattle3 ,being a ,treatise on their ,breeds1 ,management1 and ,diseases3 comprising a full ,history of the ,various ,races2 their ,origin1 ,breeding1 and ,merits2 their capacity for ,beef and ,milk4 ,by ,w4 ,youatt and ,w4 ,c4 ,l4 ,martin4 ,the whole forming a complete ,guide for the ,farmer1 the ,amateur1 and the ,veterinary ,surgeon1 with #ajj illustrations4 ,edited by ,ambrose ,stevens4 #a #be4 ,youatt on the ,horse4 ,youatt on the ,structure and ,diseases of the ,horse1 with their ,remedies4 ,also1 ,practical ,rules for ,buyers1 ,breeders1 ,breakers1 ,smiths1 c4 ,edited by ,w4 ,c4 ,spooner1 ,m4,r4,c4,v4,s4 ,with an account of the ,breeds in the ,united ,states1 by ,henry ,s4 ,randall4 #a #be4 ,youatt on ,sheep3 ,their ,breed1 ,management1 and ,diseases1 with illustrative engravings2 to which are added ,remarks on the ,breeds and ,management of ,sheep in the ,united ,states1 and on the ,culture of ,fine ,wool in ,silesia4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt4 #ge cts4 ,hoare on the ,grape ,vine4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on the ,cultivation ,of the ,grape ,vine on open ,walls1 with a ,descriptive ,account of an improved method of ,planting and ,managing the ,roots of ,grape ,vines4 ,by ,clement ,hoare4 ,with an ,appendix on the ,cultivation of the same in the ,united ,states4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,agriculturist3 ,being a ,collection of ,original ,articles on the ,various ,subjects connected with the ,farm1 in ten vols4 #hvo41 containing nearly four thousand pages4 #aj4 ,johnston's ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,lectures on the ,application of ,chemistry and ,geology to ,agriculture4 ,new edition with an ,appendix4 #a #be4 ,stephens' ,book of the ,farm4 ,a ,complete ,guide to the ,farmer1 ,steward1 ,plowman1 ,cattleman1 ,shepherd1 ,field-,worker1 and ,dairy ,maid4 ,by ,henry ,stephens4 ,with ,four ,hundred and ,fifty ,illustrations2 to which are added ,explanatory ,notes1 ,remarks1 c41 by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 ,really one of the best books for a ,farmer to possess4 ,cloth1 #d2 leather1 #d #ej4 ,the ,complete ,farmer and ,american ,gardener1 ,rural ,economist1 and ,new ,american ,gardener1 containing a ,compendious ,epitome of the most ,important ,branches of ,agricultural and ,rural ,economy2 with ,practical ,directions on the ,cultivation of ,fruits and ,vegetables2 including ,landscape and ,ornamental ,gardening4 ,by ,thomas ,g4 ,fessenden #b vols4 in one4 #a #be4 ,allen's ,treatise on the ,cultivation of the ,grape #a #be4 ,brandy and ,salt1 ,a ,remedy for various ,internal as well as ,external ,diseases1 ,inflammation and ,local ,injuries4 ,by ,rev4 ,samuel ,fenton4 #ab-a_/b cts4 ,southern ,agriculture4 ,comprising ,essays on the ,cultivation of ,corn1 ,hemp1 ,tobacco1 ,wheat1 c4 #a4 ,the ,cottage and ,farm ,bee ,keeper3 ,a ,practical ,work1 by a ,country ,curate4 #ej cts4 ,a ,book for ,every ,boy in the ,country4 ,elements of ,agriculture4 ,translated from the ,french1 and adapted to ,general ,use1 by ,f4 ,g4 ,skinner4 #be cts4 ,rural ,architecture2 ,comprising ,farm ,houses1 ,cottages1 ,carriage ,houses1 ,sheep and ,dove ,cotes1 ,pigeries1 ,barns1 c4 c4 ,by ,lewis ,f4 ,allen4 #a #be4 ,the ,american ,muck ,book4 ,the ,american ,muck ,book2 treating of the ,nature1 ,properties1 ,sources1 ,history1 and ,operations of all the principal ,fertilizers and ,manures in ,common ,use1 with ,specific ,directions for their ,preservation1 and ,application to the ,soil and to ,crops2 drawn from ,authentic ,sources4 ,actual ,experience1 and ,personal ,observation1 as ,combined with the leading ,principles of ,practical and ,scientific ,agriculture4 ,by ,j4 ,d4 ,browne4 #a #be ,youatt on the ,pig4 ,a ,treatise on the ,breeds1 ,management1 and ,medical ,treatment of ,swine2 with direction for ,salting ,pork1 ,curing ,bacon and ,hams4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt1 ,r4,s4 ,illustrated with engravings drawn from life4 #fj cts4 ,youatt on the ,dog4 ,by ,wm4 ,youatt1 ,splendidly illustrated4 ,edited1 with ,additions1 by ,e4 ,j4 ,lewis1 ,m4,d4 #a #ej4 ,the ,poultry ,book4 ,by ,john ,c4 ,bennett1 ,m4,d4 #hd cts4 ,the ,american ,poulterer's ,companion1 ,with illustrations4 ,by ,c4 ,n4 ,bement4 #a4 ,american ,poultry ,book4 ,by ,micajah ,cock4 #ch cts4 ,the ,rose ,culturist4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on its ,cultivation and ,management4 #ej cts4 ,a ,practical ,treatise on ,honey ,bees1 ,their ,management1 c4 ,by ,edward ,townley4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,fruit ,book4 ,by ,s4 ,w4 ,cole4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,veterinarian4 ,by ,s4 ,w4 ,cole4 #ej cts4 ,the ,gardener's ,text ,book4 ,by ,peter ,adam ,schenck4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,gardener4 ,by ,william ,cobbett4 #ej cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,land ,measurer4 ,by ,james ,pedder4 #ej cts4 ,new ,england ,fruit ,book4 ,by ,john ,m4 ,ives4 #ef cts4 ,practical ,treatise on ,fruits1 ,adapted to ,new ,england ,culture4 ,by ,george ,jaques #ej cts4 ,farmer and ,emigrant's ,hand ,book4 ,a ,guide to ,clearing the ,forest and ,prairie ,land1 c1 c4 ,by ,josiah ,t4 ,marshall4 #a4 ,farmer's ,barn ,book4 ,by ,youatt1 ,clater1 ,skinner and ,mills4 #a #be4 ,hind's ,farriery and ,stud ,book4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #a4 ,mason's ,farrier and ,stud ,book4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #a #be4 ,stewart's ,stable ,economy4 ,a ,treatise on the ,management of ,horses4 ,edited by ,a4 ,b4 ,allen4 #a4 ,sugar ,planter's ,manual4 ,by ,w4 ,s4 ,evans1 ,m4,d4 #a #be4 ,treatise on ,hothouses and ,ventilation4 ,by ,r4 ,b4 ,suckara4 #a #be4 ,ornamental and ,domestic ,poultry4 ,by ,rev4 ,edmund ,saul ,dixon1 ,a4,m4 ,with ,large ,additions by ,j4 ,j4 ,kerr1 ,m4,d4 ,with illustrations #a4 ,canfield on ,sheep1 ,their ,breeds ,management1 ,structure1 and ,diseases4 ,with ,illustrative ,engravings and an ,appendix ,edited by ,h4 ,j4 ,canfield4 #a4 ,book of ,flowers1 ,in which are described the various ,hardy ,herbaceous ,perennials1 ,annuals1 ,shrubby ,plants and ,evergreen ,trees desirable for ,ornamental ,purposes4 ,by ,jos4 ,breck4 #ge cts4 ,experimental ,researches on the ,food of ,animals1 ,the ,fattening of ,cattle1 and ,remarks on the ,food of ,man4 ,by ,robert ,dundas ,thompson1 ,m4,d4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,flower ,garden ,companion1 ,revised and enlarged4 ,by ,edward ,sayres4 #ge cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,treasure4 ,a ,treatise on the ,nature and ,value of ,manures1 and ,productive ,farming4 ,by ,f4 ,faulkner and ,joseph ,a4 ,smith4 #ge cts4 ,the ,practical ,farrier4 ,by ,richard ,mason4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,farrier4 ,by ,barnum4 #ge cts4 ,principles of ,practical ,gardening4 ,by ,geo4 ,w4 ,johnston1 ,esq4 #a #be4 ,buchannan on the ,grape4 #ej cents4 ,spooner on the ,grape4 ,the ,cultivation of ,american ,grape ,vines1 and making of ,wine4 ,by ,alden ,spooner4 #ch cts4 ,the ,young ,gardener's ,assistant4 ,by ,thomas ,bridgeman4 #a #ej4 ,the ,florist's ,guide4 ,by ,thos4 ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,kitchen ,gardener's ,instructor4 ,by ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,fruit ,cultivator's ,manual4 ,by ,bridgeman4 #ej cts4 ,the ,horse1 ,its ,habits1 ,diseases and ,management1 in the ,stable and on the ,road1 c4 #be cts4 ,the ,fruit1 ,flower1 and ,kitchen ,garden4 ,by ,patrick ,neill1 ,,ll4,d41 ,f4,r4,s41 adapted to the ,united ,states4 #a #be4 ,ladies' ,companion to the ,flower ,garden4 ,by ,mrs4 ,loudon4 ,edited by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #a #be4 ,the ,fruits and ,fruit ,trees of ,america4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #a #ej4 ,do4 do4 do4 do4 colored4 #ae #jj4 ,dictionary of ,modern ,gardening4 ,by ,geo4 ,w4 ,johnston4 ,edited by ,david ,landreth4 #a #ej4 ,the ,rose ,fancier's ,manual4 ,by ,mrs4 ,gore4 #a #ej4 ,parsons on the ,rose4 ,the ,rose3 its ,history1 ,poetry1 ,culture1 and ,classification4 ,by ,s4 ,b4 ,parsons4 #a #ej4 ,hovey's ,fruits of ,america4 ,containing richly colored ,figures and full ,descriptions of all the ,choicest ,varieties cultivated in the ,united ,states1 in #ab numbers4 #ab4 ,history1 ,treatment and ,diseases of the ,horse1 ,with a ,treatise on ,draught1 and ,copious ,index4 #b4 ,rural ,economy1 n its ,relations with ,chemistry1 ,physics1 and ,meteorology4 ,by ,j4 ,b4 ,boussingault4 ,translated1 c1 by ,george ,law4 #a4 ,liebig's ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,edited by ,lyon ,playfair1 ,ph4,d1 ,f4,g4,s41 and ,william ,gregory1 ,m4,d41 ,p4,r4,s4,e4 #a4 ,the ,modern ,system of ,farriery1 ,as ,practised at the ,present ,time at the ,royal ,veterinary ,college1 and from ,twenty ,years' ,practice of the ,author1 ,george ,skevington1 ,m4,r4,v4,c4 #e4 ,ewbank's ,hydraulics3 ,a ,descriptive and ,historical ,account of ,hydraulic and other ,machines for ,raising ,water4 #b #ej4 ,the ,fruit ,garden4 ,by ,p4 ,barry4 #a #be4 ,the ,american ,fruit ,culturist2 ,containing ,directions for the ,culture of ,fruit ,trees in the ,nursery1 ,orchard1 and ,garden4 ,by ,john ,j4 ,thomas4 #a #be ,the ,rose ,manual4 ,by ,robert ,buist4 #ge cts4 ,the ,plants of ,boston and ,vicinity4 ,by ,jacob ,bigelow1 ,m4,d41 #a #ej ,the ,indian ,meal ,book2 ,comprising the best ,receipts for the ,preparation of that ,article4 ,by ,miss ,leslie4 #be cts4 ,the ,horse's ,foot1 ,and ,how to ,keep it ,sound4 ,by ,william ,miles4 #be cts4 ,catechism of ,agricultural ,chemistry and ,geology4 ,by ,j4 ,f4 ,w4 ,johnston4 #be cts4 ,chemistry ,applied to ,agriculture4 ,by ,le ,count ,chaptal4 #ej cts4 ,british ,husbandry4 ,three ,vols4 and ,supplement4 #e4 ,loudon's ,arboretum4 ,eight ,vols4 #be4 ,loudon on ,gardening4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,gardening4 #aj ,loudon on ,agriculture4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,agriculture4 #aj4 ,loudon on ,trees1 c4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,trees1 ,shrub1 c4 ,loudon on ,plants1 c4 ,loudon's ,encyclopedia of ,plants1 c4 ,the ,farmer's ,library4 ,two vols4 #hvo4 ,english4 #e4 ,the ,farmer's ,dictionary4 ,by ,d4 ,p4 ,gardner4 #a #ej4 ,practical ,treatise on the ,grape ,vine4 ,by ,j4 ,fisk ,allen4 ,boards1 #a4 ,practical ,treatise on the ,veterinary ,art4 ,by ,j4 ,bridden4 #ge cts4 ,sheep ,husbandry4 ,by ,henry ,s4 ,randall4 #a #ej4 ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,by ,justus ,liebig4 ,cloth1 #a2 cheap edition1 #be cts4 ,animal ,chemistry4 ,by ,j4 ,liebig4 ,cloth1 #ej cts42 cheap ed4 paper1 #be cts4 ,liebig's ,complete ,works1 ,in one vol4 #hvo4 #a4 ,cottage and ,farm ,houses4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #b4 ,country ,houses4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #d4 ,sportsman's ,library4 ,by ,t4 ,b4 ,johnson4 ,english edition4 #e4 ,landscape ,gardening4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #c #ej4 ,cottage ,residences4 ,by ,a4 ,j4 ,downing4 #b4 ,chaptal's ,agricultural ,chemistry1 ,with ,notes4 #a4 ,american ,husbandry4 ,by ,gaylord and ,tucker4 #a4 ,gardeners ,dictionary4 ,by ,geo4 ,don1 ,f4,l4,s4 #d vols41 quarto1 #aj4 ,journal of ,agriculture4 ,edited by ,john ,s4 ,skinner4 #c vols4 #f4 ,downing's ,horticulturist4 ,half morocco4 ,per ,vol4 yearly ,vols4 #c #ge4 ,do4 do4 half yearly #b #jj4 ,the ,complete ,produce ,reckoner1 ,showing the ,value by ,pound or ,bushel4 ,by ,r4 ,robbins4 #ge cts4 ,the ,american ,shepherd4 ,by ,l4 ,a4 ,morrill4 #a4 ,the ,principles of ,agriculture4 ,by ,albert ,d4 ,thaer4 #b #ej4 ,lectures to ,farmers on ,agricultural ,chemistry4 ,by ,alexander ,petzholdts4 #ge cts4 ,the ,complete ,farrier4 ,by ,john ,c4 ,knowlson4 #be cts4 ,the ,complete ,cow ,doctor4 ,by ,j4 ,c4 ,knowlson4 #ae cts4 ,milch ,cows4 ,by ,guenon4 #ch cts4 ,a ,home for ,all2 ,or a ,new1 ,cheap1 and ,superior mode of ,building1 ,by ,o4 ,s4 ,fowler4 #ej cts4 ,the ,poultry ,breeder4 ,by ,george ,f4 ,burnham4 #be cts4 ,the ,american ,fowl ,breeder4 #be cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,companion4 ,by ,judge ,buel4 #ge cts4 ,the ,farmer's ,instructor4 ,by ,judge ,buel4 #a4 ,european ,agriculture1 ,from ,personal ,observation4 ,by ,henry ,coleman4 #b vols4 #e #jj4 ,do4 do4 do4 #a vol4 #d #jj4 ,the ,gardener and ,florist4 #be cts4 ,the ,honey ,bee4 ,by ,bevan4 #ca cts4 ,elements of ,practical ,agriculture4 ,by ,john ,p4 ,norton4 #ej cts4 ,rogers' ,scientific ,agriculture4 #ge cts4 ,mills' ,sportsman's ,library4 #a4 ,stable ,talk and ,table ,talk4 #a4 ,hawker and ,porter on ,shooting4 #b #ge4 ,field ,sports4 ,by ,frank ,forrester4 #b vols4 #d ,fish and ,fishing4 ,by ,frank ,forrester4 #b #ej4 ,the ,american ,angler's ,guide4 ,by ,j4 ,j4 ,brown4 #a #ej4 ,johnson's ,farmer's ,encyclopedia4 ,edited by ,g4 ,emerson1 ,m4,d4 #d4 ,scientific and ,practical ,agriculture4 ,by ,alonzo ,gray4 #ge cts4 ,theory and ,practice of ,agriculture4 ,by ,a4 ,partridge4 #ab cts4 ,armstrong on ,agriculture4 #ej cts4 ,hovey's ,magazine of ,horticulture4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #b ,downing' ,horticulturist4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #c ,gilpin's ,landscape ,gardening4 ,english edition4 #b #ej4 ,the ,gardener's ,calendar4 ,by ,m4 ,mahon4 #c #ej4 ,agriculture for ,schools4 ,by ,rev4 ,j4 ,l4 ,blake1 ,d4,d4 #a4 ,text ,book of ,agriculture4 ,by ,davis4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,agriculturist and ,farmer's ,cabinet4 ,published monthly4 ,per annum #a4 ,weeks on the ,honey ,bee4 ,cottages and ,cottage ,life4 ,by ,elliott4 #b #be4 ,chemical ,analysis4 ,by ,fresinus and ,bullock4 #a4 ,applied ,chemistry4 ,by ,a4 ,parnell4 #a4 ,the ,vegetable ,kingdom1 ,or ,handbook of ,plants4 ,by ,l4 ,d4 ,chapin4 #a #be4 ,the ,muck ,manual4 ,a new edition4 ,by ,samuel ,l4 ,dana4 #a4 ,youatt on the ,horse4 ,edited by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #a #ej4 ,clater's ,farrier4 #ej cts4 ,the ,dog and ,sportsman4 ,by ,j4 ,s4 ,skinner4 #ej cts4 ,the ,bird ,keeper's ,manual4 #ej cts4 ,the ,american ,herd ,book4 ,by ,lewis ,f4 ,allen4 ,the ,american ,orchardist4 ,by ,j4 ,kenrick4 #ge cts4 ,blacklock's ,treatise on ,sheep4 #ej cts4 ,guide to the ,orchard and ,fruit ,garden4 ,by ,g4 ,lindley4 #a #ej4 ,the ,trees of ,america4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,brown4 #d #ej4 ,american ,flower ,garden ,directory4 ,by ,robert ,buist4 #a #be4 ,the ,american ,cattle ,doctor4 ,by ,g4 ,h4 ,dodd4 #a vol4 #a4 ,maury's ,navigation4 ,a ,new ,theoretical and ,practical ,treatise on ,navigation1 in which the ,auxiliary ,branches of ,mathematics and ,astronomy are treated of1 and the ,theory and most simple ,methods of ,finding ,time1 ,latitude1 and ,longitude1 by ,chronometers1 ,lunar ,observations1 ,single and ,double ,altitudes1 are taught4 ,third edition1 enlarged and improved4 ,by ,m4 ,f4 ,maury1 ,lieut4 ,u4,s4 ,navy4 #hvo4 sheep1 library style4 #c #ej4 ,works of ,thomas ,dick4 ,the ,works of ,thomas ,dick1 ,,ll4,d4 #aj vols41 in #e1 #abmo4 ,embellished by a ,portrait of the ,author1 from an engraving on steel1 and illustrated by woodcuts representing more than #ejj different objects4 ,neat half muslin binding1 #c #be2 morocco backs1 #d4 ,compendium of ,english ,literature4 ,a ,compendium of ,english ,literature1 chronologically arranged1 from ,sir ,john ,mandeville 7#adth century7 to ,william ,cowper 7close of the #ahth century72 consisting of ,biographical ,sketches of the ,authors1 choice selections from their works2 with ,notes explanatory and illustrative1 and directing to the best editions1 and to various criticisms4 ,designed as a text-book to the higher classes in ,schools and ,academies1 as well as for private reading4 ,by ,charles ,d4 ,cleveland4 #a #ej4 ,an ,elementary ,treatise on ,statics4 ,by ,gaspard ,monge4 ,with a ,biographical ,notice of the ,author4 ,translated from the ,french by ,woods ,baker1 ,a4,m41 of the ,u4,s4 ,coast ,survey4 #a #be4 ,harrison on the ,english ,language4 ,the ,rise1 ,progress and present ,structure of the ,english ,language1 by the ,rev4 ,matthew ,harrison1 ,a4,m41 ,rector of ,church ,oakley1 ,hants4 and ,late ,fellow of ,queen's ,college1 ,oxford4 #a4 ,the ,progressive ,farmer4 ,by ,j4 ,a4 ,nash4 #ej cents4 ,the ,american ,florist's ,guide4 #ge cents4 ,agricultural ,dynamics4 ,by ,j4 ,j4 ,thomas4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,the ,,american ,,bee-,,keeper',s ,,manual4 ,,by ,t4 ,b4 ,,miner4 #cej pp4 #abmo4 #ce ,,engravings4 ,,price #a4 ,,published ,,by ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,st41 ,n4,y4 99 99 99 ,,opinions ,,of ,,the ,,press4 ,the most complete work on the ,bee and ,bee-keeping we have yet seen4--,n4,y4 ,tribune4 ,mr4 ,miner has handled this subject in a masterly manner4--,n4,y4 ,true ,sun4 ,he has written a work of the most fascinating interest4--,n4,y4 ,sunday ,dispatch4 ,it will interest the general reader4 ,it is indeed a charming volume4--,commercial ,advertiser4 ,this is a truly valuable work1 and very interesting4--,morning ,star4 ,it is decidedly the best work we have ever seen4--,boston ,daily ,mail4 ,mr4 ,miner has performed his task with signal ability4--,scientific ,american4 ,it does high credit to the observation and intelligence of the author4--,christian ,intelligencer4 ,this is the most comprehensive and valuable work on the ,honey-bee that has ever come under our notice4--,journal of ,commerce4 ,to appreciate the value of the honey-bee one must get this book and read it attentively4--,noah's ,messenger4 ,we like it for its independent tone1 and the amount of practical information that it contains4--,literary ,world4 ,we have been greatly edified and entertained by this book1 from which the reader will collect a great deal of excellent information4--,the ,independent4 ,this is probably the most complete manual of the kind ever published4 ,it will richly repay the general reader1 too1 by the variety of interesting facts it contains4--,boston ,traveller4 ,it is a most excellent and useful treatise1 and happily supplies a vacuum that had long existed4--,boston ,times4 ,this volume has all the charm of a romance and admirably displays the habits of this insect4--,organ4 ,this volume is what it pretends to be1 7more than can be said of many works7 and all who want a full and thorough history of the nature and management of the bee should have it in their possession4--,scientific ,american4 ,it is neatly printed1 well illustrated and clearly written and contains a great deal of practical information4--,mirror4 ,this work probably contains better instructions in regard to bees than any which have ever appeared4--,sun4 ,the practical directions are the result of evident experience1 and being plainly and concisely stated1 are excellent1 ,it is so much better than can be obtained elsewhere that we commend it to favor4--,n4,y4 ,evangelist4 ,it is an excellent book and the best published on the subject4--,boston ,olive ,branch4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,illustrated ,,treatise ,,on ,,domestic ,,animals1 ,being a history and description of the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,cattle1 ,sheep ,swine1 ,poultry1 and ,farm ,dogs2 with ,directions for their ,management1 ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 and preparation for a profitable market4 ,also1 their ,diseases and ,remedies2 together with ,full ,directions for the ,management of the ,dairy1 and the ,comparative ,economy and ,advantages of ,working ,animals1 the ,horse1 ,mule1 ,oxen1 c41 by ,r4 ,l4 ,,allen1 ,author of ,compend of ,american ,agriculture c4 ,the above work contains more than #dj ,engravings and ,portraits of ,improved ,animals illustrative of the different breeds and various subjects treated in it4 ,the most minute as well as general principles for ,breeding1 ,crossing1 ,rearing1 ,feeding1 and ,management of all ,domestic ,animals1 are herein given1 to produce the utmost marketable value for the food and attention bestowed on them2 as well as to prevent disease1 and save the immense losses which annually occur from this source4 ,it can be sent by ,mail1 in ,cloth ,binding1 for #ge ,cents--,paper1 #ej ,cents4 ,published by ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,fulton ,st4 ,new ,york4 ,for sale by all the ,booksellers throughout the country4 ,agents wanted for every county in every state4 ,address1 post paid1 the ,publisher4 ,,opinions ,,of ,,the ,,press4 ,the ,compactness yet completeness will make it a favorite with agriculturists4--,chronicle1 ,philadelphia4 ,its greatest worth is1 as a complete farrier1 showing the diseases of animals1 their treatment1 and cure4--,far4 ,mec4 ,the portion which relates to the dairy alone1 is worth the cost of the book4--,worcester ,transcript4 ,it is every way adapted to be serviceable in every household which has domestic animals4--,d4 ,adv42 ,newark4 ,we believe it a complete guide for the farmer and dairyman in the purchase1 care1 and use of animals4--,jeffersonian4 ,here is a work which should be in the hands of every farmer4--,highland ,courier4 ,we can confidently recommend this work as a very instructive one to those engaged in farming1 raising stock1 or husbandry4--,northampton ,courier4 ,the author is a practical farmer and stockbreeder1 and is able to vouch for the correctness of the remedies for diseases of ,domestic ,animals1 as well as the best mode of managing them4--,huron1 ,o4 ,reflector4 ,it costs but seventy-five cents1 and cannot fail to be worth ten times that amount to any farmer4--,summit ,s4,c4 ,beacon4 ,it is the best of that character we have yet seen2 no farmer should be without it--,democrat1 ,carlisle1 ,pa4 ,this is just such a book as every owner of stock should be possessed of4--,easton ,md4 ,star4 ,here is a book which all--those who follow the plow1 and those who direct it--can read to profit4 ,it is a library of knowledge1 presenting the latest improvements and discoveries1 on all the topics treated of2 and illustrated by a great variety of cuts4 ,the ,allens1 one of whom is the author of the work before us1 are quite famous in their especial role1 so that what proceeds from them may be confidently credited at all events4 ,the present book is a most interesting and instructive one1 and must meet with a great sale4--,sciota ,gazette4 ,this work1 to the farmer and stock raiser1 will be useful1 instructive1 and profitable1 enabling them to improve the breed of their stock1 preserve them from sickness1 and cure them when infected with disease4--,herald1 ,morrisville1 ,pa4 ,the time has gone by when farmers can expect to succeed without giving some attention to ,book ,farming1 and we trust they begin to see it for themselves4 ,we should like to hear that this work was in the hands of every farmer in the county4--,mercury1 ,potsdam1 ,n4,y4 ,the title page of this work gives a good idea of its scope and intent4 ,it is a comprehensive summary of farm operations1 and will prove very acceptable to the great mass of our farming population4 ,we are informed that #c1jjj copies of this work have been sold since the first of ,january4 ,it is well printed and profusely illustrated--,n4,y4 ,tribune4 ,it is furnished with numerous illustrating cuts1 and will form a complete vade mecum for ,the agriculturist1 convenient for reference1 and to be relied on when consulted---,baltimore ,american4 ,this is a practical book by a practical man1 and will serve extensive practical ends4 ,it is a companion which every farmer will feel that he cannot well be without4--,n4,y4 ,observer4 ,we cheerfully recommend this work to farmers4--,signal1 ,juliett1 ,ill4 ,we anticipate an extensive sale for this work--,ohio ,cultivator4 ,this work ought to be in the hands of every planter4--,n4,o4 ,delta4 ,the author is a gentleman of fine attainments1 and who ranks as one of the most accomplished writers on agricultural subjects in the country4--,ala4 ,planter4 ,many a valuable animal is lost1 every year1 for want of the knowledge here conveyed4--,eagle ,brattleboro1 ,vt4 ,the author 7,mr4 ,allen71 is a practical man1 and everything from his pen1 on subjects connected with agriculture and cattle breeding1 is valuable to those who prefer matter of fact to mere theory--,maine ,farmer4 99 99 99 99 99 ,published by ,c4 ,m4 ,saxton4 99 99 99 ,,american ,,muck ,,book1 ,treating of the ,nature1 ,properties1 ,sources1 ,operations1 c4 ,,of ,,all ,,the ,,principal ,,fertilizers ,,and ,,manures ,,in ,,common ,,use1 ,,with ,,specific ,,directions ,,for ,,their ,,preparation1 ,,preservation1 ,,and ,,application to ,soil and ,crops2 with the leading principles of ,practical and ,scientific ,agriculture1 c41 c4 ,by ,d4 ,j4 ,browne4 #dbj pp4 #abmo4 price #a4 99 99 99 ,opinions of the ,press4 ,the ,muck ,book contains a great deal of valuable matter4 ,this has been drawn from a large number of the best authorities on the subjects indicated in the title2 the numerous analyses of plants and manures are particularly valuable1 and are not to be found in any other single treatise4 ,those who wish to advance towards perfection in the saving1 manufacturing1 and judging of the comparative value of manures1 and in applying them with the least possible waste to crops1 will find in this book a vast magazine of suggestions and advice1 worth many times its cost and the labor of perusal4--,albany ,cultivator4 ,the title ',muck ,book' inadequately describes the character of the work2 for it treats of all kinds of fertilizers1 animal1 vegetable and mineral1 and in a style to instruct without perplexing4 ,the manner in which the various manures operate1 and the means whereby any required deficiency in the soil can be supplied1 are plainly given2 and none need waste a horn-pith or an old shoe1 as many do1 for want of knowledge how to turn it to advantage4 ,we recommend the work to intelligent and inquiring farmers1 who desire to make everything tell in the manure heap1 and who would keep their soil in good heart4--,journal of ,agriculture4 ,from an attentive examination of the pages of this book1 ,i have come to the conclusion that it is one of the best works extant1 on the principles of scientific agriculture1 and the best compendium of our most recent knowledge of the nature of manures and their adaptation to particular soils and crops4--,n4,e4 ,farmer4 ,mr4 ,browne was1 we believe1 bred and educated a practical farmer himself1 and having a general knowledge of geology1 chemistry1 c41 and extensive personal knowledge of farming1 gardening1 c1 in almost every soil and climate1 having been for five years a traveller and resident in ,america1 ,europe1 ,western ,africa1 and the ,west ,indies1 his observation and experience combined1 would render him eminently qualified for the task4 ,this he has accomplished with credit to himself1 and no doubt the result will prove it highly advantageous to the farming community4 ,it is just such a work as is needed by every agriculturist1 and the very neat and excellent style in which the enterprising publisher has issued it1 will we are very sure commend it to every friend of the farming interest in the country4--,n4,y4 ,farmer and ,mechanic4 ,this is a well-written work of over four hundred pages1 printed and bound in the usual handsome and permanent style of ,mr4 ,saxton4 ,the importance to every farmer and horticulturist of the great subject of which it treats cannot fail to make this work invaluable to the library of every man who tills the soil4 ,one feature of this work which pleases us1 and which will make it universally acceptable is1 that the subjects are treated in such a manner as to be easily understood by the 'working farmer1' who knows little or nothing of chemical science and learned technicalities4 ,with such a work as this in his hands1 the farmer is enabled to reclaim his lands1 impoverished by his own or his ancestors' mismanagement1 and realize abundant crops where nothing would grow to reward his toil in the ordinary mode of culture4--,phrenological ,journal4 ,the following is from4 ,dr4 ,c4 ,t4 ,jackson1 of ,boston1 the best ,agricultural ,chemist in the ,united ,states3 ,,boston1 ,,november #fth1 #ahea4 ,,dear ,,sir3 ,i have the pleasure of acknowledging the receipt of a copy of the ,american ,muck ,book1 recently published by you1 and edited by ,mr4 ,d4 ,jay ,browne4 ,from an attentive examination of the pages of this book1 ,i have come to the conclusion that it is one of the best works extant1 on the principles of scientific agriculture1 and the best compendium of our most recent knowledge of the nature of manures and their adaptation to particular soils and crops4 ,it cannot be expected that a single volume could possibly contain the whole sum of chemical knowledge applicable to the science of agriculture2 but1 on looking over the closely-printed and compact tables of analyses1 and the abundant formulas1 which this publication contains1 ,i could not fail to be surprised at the industry manifested in preparing it4 ,i was also gratified to find it so well adapted to the ,american system of husbandry1 and so practical1 in its character4 ,its copious and accurate index adds not a little to its value4 ,i shall certainly recommend it to my agricultural friends as a very useful book1 and one necessary to every scientific farmer4 ,i am1 respectfully1 your ob't servant1 ,,charles ,t4 ,,jackson1 ,state ,assayist1 c41 c4 ,to ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 ,esq41 ,new ,york4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,the ,,american ,,farm ,,book1 ,,or ,,compend ,,of ,,american ,,agriculture ,,containing ,a ,,concise ,,and ,,plainly-,,written ,,exposition ,,of ,,duties ,,pertaining ,,to ,,the ,,cultivation ,,of ,,the ,,earth1 ,,the ,,management ,,of ,,the ,,farm1 ,c41 ,c41 ,,on ,,practical ,,scientific ,,principles4 ,,by ,r4 ,l4 ,,allen4 ,the cheapest and most valuable book for a farmer ever printed2 being a complete guide1 both practical and scientific1 for the ,,management ,,of ,,the ,,farm4 99 99 99 ,besides the varied practical knowledge which this book imparts1 and which is indispensable to the proper management of every department of agriculture1 it gives the elements of other information highly necessary to a successful farmer1 as ,history1 ,geology1 ,chemistry1 ,botany1 ,physiology1 and ,mechanics4 ,these branches of knowledge are given as applicable to agricultural pursuits1 and when properly understood will essentially aid and assist the farmer4 ,in fact1 a knowledge of these sciences is a sure key to wealth for any agriculturist4 ,it gives the modes of preparation1 and the effects of all kinds of manures2 the origin1 texture1 divisions1 and description of every variety of soil2 the economy of sowing1 reaping1 and mowing1 irrigation1 and draining2 cultivation of the grasses1 clovers1 grains1 and roots2 ,southern and miscellaneous products1 as cotton1 hemp1 flax1 the sugar cane1 rice1 tobacco1 hops1 madder1 woad1 c42 the rearing of fruit--apples1 pears1 peaches1 plums1 grapes1 c42 farm buildings1 hedges1 c42 with the best methods of planting1 cultivating1 and preparation for market4 ,illustrated by #ajj engravings4 ,the reader can form some idea of the above work1 from the fact that it treats of #hjj different subjects important to a farmer4 ,it contains #ced pages1 and is beautifully bound in cloth1 suitable for a library4 ,price only ,one ,dollar4 ,,notices ,,of ,,the ,,press4 ,the author has been one of the most able contributors to the agricultural press for the last ten years2 aside from this1 he is a practical farmer and stock-breeder1 and consequently knows from his own experience what he is writing about4--,commercial ,advertiser4 ,this work is by a gentleman of known experience2 the work is exceedingly cheap1 and the farmer will find it a valuable book of reference4--,n4,y4 ,express4 ,it is in fact a brief encyclopedia on the subjects treated1 and the farmer will find appropriate ,information on almost any subject coming within his reach4--,n4,y4 ,observer4 ,here is a book for the million1 precisely what its title indicates4 ,compassed within its pages1 the reader will find the subject of soils1 manures1 crops1 and animals1 treated in a style easily comprehended4--,n4,y4 ,spirit of the ,times4 ,this work is what might be expected from one so well qualified for the undertaking4--,boston ,cultivator4 ,why shall not every good farmer economise his muscles by storing his mind8 ,we hope this book will find its way into many family and school libraries4--,n4,y4 ,tribune4 ,we think that ,mr4 ,allen's volume1 the basis of which is good practical farming1 as practised by the best cultivators in the ,united ,states1 with an intelligent reference to those principles of science which lie at the root of all successful practice1 is likely to be of as muck or more real service to us1 than any work on agriculture yet issued from the press1 and we gladly commend it to the perusal of every one of our readers engaged in the cultivation of the land4--,horticulturist4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,the ,,family ,,kitchen ,,gardener2 ,,containing ,,plain ,,and ,,accurate ,,descriptions ,,of ,,all ,,the ,,different ,,species ,,and ,,varieties ,,of ,,culinary ,,vegetables3 ,,by ,,robert ,,buist1 ,,author ,,of ,,the ,,american ,,flower-,,garden ,,directory1 ,,rose ,,manual1 ,,etc4 99 99 99 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,street1 ,,also1 ,,stringer ,,townsend1 ,h4 ,,long ,,brother1 ,w4 ,f4 ,,burgess1 ,,dewitt ,,davenport1 ,,wilson ,,co41 ,,dexter ,,brother1 ,,boston3 ,,redding ,,co4 ,,philadelphia3 ,w4 ,b4 ,,zimmer1 ,,lindsay ,,blakiston4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,the ,,american ,,bird ,,fancier2 ,,considered ,,with ,,reference ,,to ,,the ,,breeding1 ,,rearing1 ,,feeding1 ,,management1 ,,and ,,peculiarities ,,of ,,cage ,,and ,,house ,,birds4 ,illustrated with ,engravings ,,by ,d4 ,j4 ,,browne1 ,,author ,,of ,,the ,,sylva ,,americana1 ,,the ,,american ,,poultry ,,yard1 ,,etc4 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,street4 ,,also1 ,,stringer ,,townsend1 ,h4 ,,long ,,brother1 ,w4 ,f4 ,,burgess1 ,,dewitt ,,davenport1 ,,wilson ,,co41 ,,dexter ,,brother ,,philadelphia3 ,w4 ,b4 ,,zieber1 ,,lindsay ,,blakiston4 ,,boston3 ,,redding ,,co4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,lectures ,,on ,,the ,,general ,,relations ,,which ,,science ,,bears ,,to ,,practical ,,agriculture1 ,,delivered ,,before ,,the ,,new-,,york ,,state ,,agricultural ,,society4 ,,by ,,james ,f4 ,w4 ,,johnston1 ,f4,r4,s4,s4 ,l4 ,e4 ,,with ,,notes ,,and ,,additions 99 99 99 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 ,,agricultural ,,bookseller4 99 99 99 99 99 ,,an ,,essay ,,on ,,manures1 ,,submitted ,,to ,,the ,,trustees ,,of ,,the ,,massachusetts ,,society ,,for ,,promoting ,,agriculture1 ,,for ,,their ,,premium4 ,,by ,,samuel ,l4 ,,dana4 ,from the ,new ,york ,observer3 ,,essay ,,on ,,manures4 ,by ,,samuel ,l4 ,,dana ,this ,essay contains much useful information for the practical farmer1 in a small compass1 in reference to the nature and management of manures immediately under his control2 the knowledge and practice of which will amply compensate for the expense of ascertaining its value4 99 99 99 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,street4 ,,also1 ,,stringer ,,townsend1 ,h4 ,,long ,,brother1 ,w4 ,f4 ,,burgess1 ,,dewitt ,,davenport1 ,,wilson ,,co41 ,,dexter ,,brother4 ,,boston3 ,,redding ,,co4 ,,philadelphia3 ,w4 ,b4 ,,zieber1 ,,lindsay ,,blakiston4 99 99 99 99 99 ,a ,,practical ,,treatise ,,on ,,the ,,cultivation ,,of ,,the ,,grape ,,vine ,,on ,,open ,,walls4 ,,with ,a ,,descriptive ,,account ,,of ,,an ,,improved ,,method ,,of ,,planting ,,and ,,managing ,,the ,,roots ,,of ,,grape ,,vines4 ,,by ,,clement ,,hoare ,,to ,,which ,,is ,,added1 ,,an ,,appendix1 ,,containing ,,remarks ,,on ,,the ,,culture ,,of ,,the ,,grape ,,vine ,,in ,,the ,,united ,,states4 99 99 99 ,,new ,,york3 ,c4 ,m4 ,,saxton1 #aeb ,,fulton ,,street4