,transcriber ,note ,text emphasis denoted by ,italics and ,bold4 ,,the ,,apiary ,,or1 ,,bees1 ,,bee-,,hives ,,and ,,bee ,,culture4 ,,the ,,apiary2 ,,or1 ,,bees1 ,,bee-,,hives1 ,,and ,,bee ,,culture3 ,,being ,a ,,familiar ,,account ,,of ,,the ,,habits ,,of ,,bees1 ,,and ,,the ,,most ,,improved ,,methods ,,of ,,management1 ,,with ,,full ,,directions1 ,,adapted ,,for ,,the ,,cottager1 ,,farmer1 ,,or1 ,,scientific ,,apiarian4 ,by ,,alfred ,,neighbour4 ,je connais beaucoup des personnes qu' aiment les abeilles1 mais ne personnes aiment les mediocrement1 ils les passionment4--,gelieu4 ,,london3 ,,kent ,,and ,,co41 ,,paternoster ,,row ,,geo3 ,,neighbour ,,and ,,sons1 #adi4 ,,regent ,,street1 ,,and #abg1 ,,high ,,holborn2 ,,and ,,all1 ,,booksellers4 #ahfe4 ,,table ,,of ,,contents4 ,illustration ,preface--,introductory #a ,,section ,i4 ,the inhabitants of the hive #b ,the queen #b ,the drone #f ,the worker bee #h ,eggs of bees #h ,increase of bees #i ,swarming #aa ,,section ,,ii4--,modern ,bee-,hives4 ,nutt's ,collateral ,hive #ag ,neighbour's ,improved ,single ,box ,hive #bd ,taylor's ,amateur ,shallow ,box or ,eight-bar ,hive #bf ,taylor's ,amateur ,seven-bar ,hive #bg ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage #bh ,improved ,cottage #ca ,ladies' ,observatory or ,crystal ,bee-hive #cb ,cottagers' ,hive for taking honey in straw caps without the destruction of the bees #cd ,woodbury ,bar and ,frame ,hives3-- ,wood #cf ,straw #cg ,glass #ch ,frame #ci ,improved ,comb ,bar #ci ,compound ,bar and ,frame #dj ,cover #da ,taylor's ,improved ,cottage ,hive #dc ,eight ,bar ,straw #dc ,neighbour's ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive #dd ,woodbury #df ,huber's ,hive #ej ,,section ,,iii4--,exterior ,arrangements and ,apparatus4 ,bee ,house to contain two hives #ec twelve hives #ee nine hives #ef ,evening thoughts in ,january #ef ,exterior and interior of an ,apiary #eh ,zinc ,cover #ei ,ornamental ,zinc ,cover #ei ,cover of ,zinc #fj ,bell ,glasses #fj ,taylor's ,glass #fj ,payne's ,glass #fa ,bell ,glass with lid #fa ,guide ,comb for ,glasses #fa ,the ,new ,bottle ,feeder #fc ,round ,bee ,feeder #fe ,zinc ,fountain ,bee ,feeder #fe ,nutt's ,drawer ,feeder #ff ,honey ,cutters 7#ac7 #ff ,fumigator 7#aa7 #ff ,fumigator 7#ab7 #fh ,bee ,dress or ,protector #fh ,engraved ,pressing ,roller1 for the guidance of bees in the construction of honey-comb on the bars #fi ,impressed ,wax ,sheets for artificial comb #gj ,,section ,,iv4 ,manipulation and uses of ,bar and ,frame ,hives #gc ,putting on ,super ,hive #ge ,taking out ,frames with ,combs #gf ,artificial ,swarming #gi ,driving #hd ,changing ,old ,stock to new ,hives #hf ,weighing ,hives1 c4 #hh ,,section ,v4--,miscellaneous ,information4 ,stings3 their ,prevention and ,cure #hh ,pollen or ,food for ,infant ,bees #ia ,propolis or ,bees' ,cement #ib ,pasturage for ,bees #ic ,the ,ligurian or ,italian ,alp ,bee #ie ,living ,bees at the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb1 sending ,bees to ,australia1 c4 #ajj ,bee-keeping in ,london #ajb ,wasps and ,moths #ajf ,draining ,honey from the ,combs #aaj ,general ,remarks #aaj ,on the ,first ,flight of ,bees in ,spring #aaf ,,appendix4--,testimonials of the ,press4 ,great ,exhibition of #ahja3-- ,from the ,cottage ,gardener #aai ,illustrated ,london ,news #aai ,express #aba ,international ,exhibition of #ahjb3-- ,from the ,illustrated ,london ,news #aba ,journal of ,horticulture #aba ,illustrated ,news of the ,world #abb ,gardener's ,weekly ,magazine #abc ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,show at ,exeter in ,june1 #ahfc3-- ,from the ,journal of ,horticulture #abd ,western ,times #abd ,devon ,weekly ,times #abf ,exeter ,gazette #abf ,royal ,agricultural ,show1 ,newcastle1 #ahjd3-- ,from the ,northern ,daily ,express #abf ,illustration ,,errata4 ,at second line from bottom of page #bc1 for cottage read cottager4 ,at page #cj1 fifth line from bottom1 for last page read page #be4 ,at page #dd1 sixteenth line1 for this plates of glass read thin plates of glass4 ,at page #ec1 fourteenth line1 read bee hive for bee house4 ,transcriber ,note3 ,above ,,errata corrections were applied4 ,,explanations ,,omitted4 ,at page #fb1 ,hold the glass horizontally over the flame of the candle4 ,at page #hj1 ,an empty hive should be placed on the stand when the living hive is removed1 for the purpose of amusing returning bees4 ,if the hive is kept in a bee-house1 the entrance should be shut down unto the hive is restored1 when the clustered bees may be at once admitted4 ,transcriber ,note3 ,above ,,explanations were placed4 ,,preface4 ,illustration ,our apology for preparing a bee book is a very simple one4 ,we are so frequently applied to for advice on matters connected with bees and bee-hives1 that it seemed likely to prove a great advantage1 alike to our correspondents and ourselves1 if we could point to a handy-book of our own1 which should contain full and detailed replies sufficient to meet all ordinary enquiries4 ,most of the apiarian manuals possess some special excellence or other1 and we have no wish to disparage any of them4 ,yet in all1 we have found a want of explanations relating to several of the more recent improvements4 ,it has1 more especially1 been our aim to give explicit and detailed directions on most subjects connected with the hiving and removing of bees2 and also1 to show how1 by judicious application of the depriving system1 the productive powers of the bees may be enormously increased4 ,we need say little here as to the interest that attaches to the apiary as a source of perennial pleasure for the amateur naturalist4 ,many of the hives and methods of management are described with a direct reference to this class of bee-keepers2 so that1 besides plain and simple directions suitable for cottagers with their ordinary hives1 this work will be found to include instructions useful for the scientific apiarian1 or1 at least1 valuable1 for those who desire to gain a much wider acquaintance with the secrets of bee-keeping than is now usually possessed4 ,we would lay stress on the term acquaintance1 for there is nothing in the management of the various bar-and-frame hives which is at all difficult when frequent practice has rendered the bee-keeper familiar with them4 ,such explicit directions are herein given as to how the right operations may be performed at the right times1 that a novice may at once commence to use the modern hives4 ,the word new-fangled has done good service for the indolent and prejudiced2 but we trust that our readers will be of a very different class4 ,let them give a fair trial to the modern appliances for the humane and depriving system of bee-keeping1 and they will find offered to them an entirely new field of interest and observation4 ,at present1 our continental neighbours far surpass us as bee-masters2 but we trust that the season of #ahfe1 if the summer be fine1 will prove a turning point in the course of4 ,english bee-keeping4 ,there is little doubt that a greater number of intelligent and influential persons in this country will become bee-keepers than has ever been the case before4 ,our task would have lost half its interest1 did we not hope that it would result in something beyond the encouragement of a refined and interesting amusement for the leisurely classes4 ,the social importance of bee keeping as a source of pecuniary profit for small farmers and agricultural labourers1 has never been appreciated as it deserves4 ,yet these persons will not1 of themselves1 lay aside the bungling and wasteful plan of destroying the bees1 or learn without being taught the only proper method1 that of deprivation4 ,their educated neighbours when once interested in bee-keeping1 will be the persons to introduce the more profitable system of humane bee-keeping4 ,the clergy1 especially1 as permanent residents in the country1 may have great influence in this respect4 ,there is not a rural or suburban parish in the kingdom in which bee-keeping might not be largely extended1 and the well being of all but the very poorest inhabitants would be greatly promoted4 ,not only would the general practice of bee-keeping add largely to the national resources1 but that addition would chiefly fall to the share of those classes to whom it would be of most value4 ,moreover1 in the course of thus adding to their income1 the uneducated classes would become interested in an elevating and instructive pursuit4 ,it is curious to observe that honey1 whether regarded as a manufactured article or as an agricultural product1 is obtained under economical conditions of exceptional advantage4 ,if regarded as a manufactured article1 we notice that there is no outlay required for labour1 nor any expense for raw material4 ,the industrious labourers are eager to utilize all their strength3 they never combine except for the benefit of their master1 they never strike for wages1 and they provide their own subsistence4 ,all that the master manufacturer of honey has to do financially1 is to make a little outlay for fixed capital in the needful plant of hives and utensils--no floating capital is needed4 ,then1 on the other hand1 if we regard honey as an agricultural product1 it presents as such a still more striking contrast to the economists' theory of what are the requisites of production4 ,not only is there no outlay needed for wages and none for raw material1 but there is nothing to be paid for use of a natural agent4 ,every square yard of land in the ,united ,kingdom may come to be cultivated1 as in ,china1 but no proprietor will ever be able to claim rent for those waste products of the flowers and leaves1 which none but the winged workers of the hive can ever utilize4 ,the recent domestication in ,england of the ,ligurian or ,italian ,alp bee adds a new and additional source of interest to bee-culture4 ,we have1 therefore1 gone pretty fully into this part of the subject2 and believe that what is here published with regard to their introduction embodies the most recent and reliable information respecting them that is possessed by ,english apiarians4#a ,footnote #a3 ,some of our apiarian friends may be inclined to be discouraged from cultivating the ,ligurian bees in consequence of the liability to their becoming hybridised when located in proximity to the black bees4 ,we can dispel these fears by stating that we have not unfrequently found that hybrid queens possess the surprising fecundity of the genuine ,italian ones1 whilst the ,english stocks in course of time become strengthened by the infusion of foreign blood4 ,we are under many obligations for the advice and assistance that we have on many occasions received from ,mr4 ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 of ,exeter1 whose apiarian skill is unrivalled in this country4 ,our acknowledgments are also due to ,mr4 ,henry ,taylor1 author of an excellent ,bee-,keeper's ,manual1 for his help and counsel during the earlier years of our apiarian experience4 ,both the before-mentioned gentlemen have freely communicated to us their contrivances and suggestions1 without thought of fee or reward for them4 ,in common with most recent writers on bee-culture1 we are necessarily largely indebted to the standard works of ,huber and succeeding apiarians4 ,from the more recent volume of the ,rev4 ,l4 ,l4 ,langstroth we have also obtained useful information4 ,but having ourselves of later years had considerable experience in the manipulation and practical management of bees1 we are enabled to confirm or qualify the statement of others1 as well as to summarize information gleaned from many various sources4 ,we should state that our thanks are due to ,mr4 ,w4 ,martin ,wood1 who has rendered us valuable aid in the arrangement of this work4 ,let it be understood that we have no patented devices to push3 we are free to choose out of the many apiarian contrivances that have been offered of late years1 and we feel perfectly at liberty to praise or blame as our experience warrants us in doing4 ,it does not follow that we necessarily disparage hives which are not described herein2 we have sought1 as much as possible1 to indicate the principles on which good hives must be constructed1 whatever their outward size or shape4 ,all through the work1 we have endeavoured to adopt the golden rule of submission to nature1 by reference to which all the fancied difficulties of bee-keeping may be easily overcome4 ,in none of the attempts of men to hold sway over natural objects1 is the truth of ,bacon's leading doctrine more beautifully illustrated than in the power that the apiarian exercises in the little world of bees4 ,there are one or two literary peculiarities of this work to which we ought to refer4 ,it will be noticed that the numbers affixed to the names of the various hives and utensils do not follow in regular order4 ,those numbers refer to our ,illustrated ,catalogue1 with which most ,english apiarians have long been familiar1 and we could not alter them without great inconvenience4 ,some persons may consider we have used too many poetical quotations in a book dealing wholly with matters of fact4 ,we trust1 however1 that an examination of the extracts will at once remove that feeling of objection4 ,we venture to hope that the following pages contain many valuable hints and interesting statements which may tend to excite increased and renewed attention to the most useful and industrious of all insects4 ,although bees have neither reason nor religion for their guide1 yet from them man may learn many a lesson of virtue and industry1 and may even draw from them thoughts suggestive of trust and faith in ,god4 ,we beg leave to conclude our preface1 and introduce the subject1 by the following extract from ,shakespeare1--who1 without doubt1 kept bees in that garden at ,stratford wherein he used to meditate3-- ,so work the honey bees2 ,creatures1 that by a rule in ,nature1 teach ,the art of order to a peopled kingdom4 ,they have a king and officers of sorts2 ,where some1 like magistrates1 correct at home2 ,others1 like merchants1 venture trade abroad2 ,others1 like soldiers1 armed in their stings4 ,make boot upon the ,summer's velvet buds4 ,which pillage they1 with merry march1 bring home ,to the tent royal of their emperor3 ,who1 busied in his majesty1 surveys ,the singing masons building roofs of gold2 ,the civil citizens kneading up the honey2 ,the poor mechanic porters crowding in ,their heavy burdens at his narrow gate2 ,the sad-eyed justice1 with his surly hum1 ,delivering o'er to executors pale ,the lazy1 yawning drone4-- ,shakespeare's ,henry ,v41 ,act ,i41 ,scene #b4 ,,the ,,apiary2 ,,or ,,bees1 ,,bee-,,hives1 ,,bee ,,culture4 ,illustration ,there are two classes of persons for whom bee-culture should have a strong interest1 and two distinct purposes for which the pursuit may be followed4 ,first1 there is the cottager or small farmer who1 in thousands of instances1 might add considerably to his income by bee-keeping2 and secondly1 there is the man of retired leisure and refinement1 who1 in the personal tendance of an apiary would find an easy and interesting occupation1 and one which could not fail to quicken his faculties of general scientific observation4 ,moreover1 in contemplating the wonderful skill1 industry1 and prevision of his insect artisans1 the bee-keeper would find in his apiary constant illustrations of creative wisdom4 ,amongst the humbler classes in the rural districts1 the neglect of bee-keeping is to be attributed to an exaggerated idea of the trouble needful for the care of a few hives1 and also to ignorance of the easier and more profitable methods of modern management4 ,many of the wealthier country or suburban residents1 also1 are averse to the personal trouble which they fancy needful in keeping an apiary2 and1 perhaps1 some gentlemen are more afraid than they would like to own of that very efficient weapon of defence with which the honey bee is provided4 ,but the prejudices against bees are quite unnecessary2 bees are as tractable as they are intelligent1 and it is the purpose of this little book to show that bee-culture is an easy and safe1 as well as a deeply interesting1 pursuit4 ,possibly1 also1 some who do us the favour to read our detailed explanations1 will see how the rural clergyman1 or the benevolent landlord1 who keeps an apiary of his own1 may be of signal service to his poorer neighbours in explaining to them the mysteries of bee-keeping4 ,i4 ,,the ,,inhabitants ,,of ,,the ,,hive4 ,every hive or bee colony comprises three distinct classes of bees1 each class having functions peculiar to itself1 and which are essential to the well-being of the whole community4 ,as each bee knows its own proper duties1 they all work harmoniously and zealously together1 for the common weal4 ,certain apparent exceptions to the good-fellowship of the bees will be hereafter noticed1 but those arise out of essential conditions in the social economy of the bee community4 ,the three classes of bees are3--the queen bee1 with the pup or embryos intended for queens2 the working bees2 and the drones or male bees4 ,the ,queen4--,dr4 ,evans#b introduces the queen bee to our notice thus3-- ,first of the throng1 and foremost of the whole1 ,one 'stands confest the sovereign and the soul4' ,footnote #b3 ,dr4 ,evans1--who may be styled the poet-laureate of the bees1--lived at ,shrewsbury1 where he practiced as a physician4 ,his poem on bees is written with great taste and careful elaboration1 and it describes the habits of bees with a degree of accuracy only attainable after continuous scientific observation4 ,the queen may very readily be distinguished from the rest of the bees by the greater length of her body1 and the comparative shortness of her wings2 her legs are longer1 and are not furnished with either brushes or baskets as those of the working bee1 for being constantly fed by the latter1 she does not need those implements2 the upper surface of her body is of a brighter black than the other bees1 whilst her colour underneath is a yellowish brown2 her wings1 which do not extend more than half the length of her body1 are sinewy and strong2 her long abdomen tapers nearly to a point2 her head is rounder1 her tongue more slender1 and not nearly so long1 as that of the working bee1 and her sting is curved2 her movements are measured and majestic1 as she moves in the hive the other bees form a circle round her1 none venturing to turn their backs upon her1 but all anxious to show that respect and attention due to her rank and station4 ,whenever in the exercise of her sovereign will the queen wishes to travel amongst her subjects1 she experiences no inconvenience from overcrowding2 although the part of the hive to which she is journeying may be the most populous1 way is immediately made1 the common bees tumbling over each other to get out of her way1 so great is their anxiety not to interfere with the royal progress4 ,it is the chief function of the queen to lay the eggs from which all future bees originate1 the multiplication of the species being the purpose of her existence1 and she follows it up with an assiduity similar to that with which the workers construct combs or collect honey4 ,a queen is estimated to lay in the breeding season from #a1ejj to #b1jjj eggs a-day1 and in the course of one year is supposed to produce more than #ajj1jjj bees4 ,this is indeed a vast number2 but when there is taken into consideration the great number required for swarms1 the constant lessening of their strength by death in various ways1 and the many casualties attending them in their distant travels in search of the luscious store1 it does not seem that the case is over stated4 ,in a ,glass ,unicomb ,hive1--which we shall hereinafter describe1--all the movements of the queen-bee may be traced2 she may be seen thrusting her head into a cell to discover whether it be occupied with an egg or honey1 and if empty1 she turns round in a dignified manner and inserts her long body--so long1 that she is able to deposit the egg at the bottom of the cell2 she then passes on to another1 and so continues industriously multiplying her laborious subjects4 ,it not unfrequently happens when the queen is prolific1 and if it be an early season1 that many eggs are wasted for want of unoccupied cells2 for in that case the queen leaves them exposed at the bottom of the hive when they are greedily devoured by the bees4 ,the queen-bee1 unlike the great majority of her subjects1 is a stayer at home2 generally speaking1 she only quits the hive twice in her life4 ,the first occasion is on the all-important day of her marriage1 which always takes place at a great height in the air1 and generally on the second or third day of her princess-life2 she never afterwards leaves the hive1 except to lead off an emigrating swarm4 ,evans1 with proper loyalty1 has duly furnished a glowing epithalamium for the queen-bee3--thus4 ,when noon-tide ,sirius glares on high1 ,young love ascends the glowing sky1 ,from vein to vein swift shoots prolific fire4 ,and thrills each insect fibre with desire2 ,then ,nature to fulfil thy prime decree1 ,wheels round in wanton rings1 the courtier ,bee2 ,now shyly distant1 now with bolder air1 ,he woos and wins the all-complying fair2 ,through fields of ether1 veiled in vap'ry gloom ,they seek1 with amorous haste1 the nuptial room2 ,as erst the immortal pair1 on ,ida's height1 wreath'd round their noon of joy1 ambrosial night1 ,the loyalty and attachment of bees to their queen is one of their most remarkable characteristics2 they constantly supply her with food1 and fawn upon and caress her1 softly touching her with their antenn1 a favour which she occasionally returns4 ,when she moves about the hive1 all the bees through whom she successively passes pay her the same homage2 those whom she leaves behind in her track close together1 and resume their accustomed occupations4 ,the majestic deportment of the queen-bee and the homage paid to her is1 with a little poetic license1 thus described by ,evans3-- ,but mark of royal port and awful mien4 ,where moves with measured pace the insect ,queen6 ,twelve chosen guards1 with slow and solemn gait4 ,bend at her nod1 and round her person wait4 ,this homage is1 however1 only paid to matron queens4 ,whilst they continue princesses1 they receive no distinctive marks of respect4 ,dr4 ,dunbar1 the noted ,scotch apiarian1 observed a very striking instance of this whilst experimenting on the combative qualities of the queen-bee4 ,so long1 says he1 as the queen which survived the rencontre with her rival1 remained a virgin1 not the slightest degree of respect or attention was paid her--not a single bee gave her food2 she was obliged1 as often as she required it1 to help herself2 and in crossing the honey cells for that purpose1 she had to scramble1 often with difficulty1 over the crowd1 not an individual of which got out of her way1 or seemed to care whether she fed or starved2 but no sooner did she become a mother1 than the scene was changed1 and all testified towards her that most affectionate attention1 which is uniformly exhibited to fertile queens4 ,the queen-bee1 though provided with a sting1 never uses it on any account1 except in combat with her sister queens4 ,but she admits of no rival to her throne2 almost her first act on coming forth from the cell1 is an attempt to tear open and destroy the cells containing the pup of princesses likely to become competitors4 ,should it so happen that another queen of similar age does exist in the hive at the same time1 the two are speedily brought into contact with each other in order to fight it out and decide by a struggle1 mortal to one of them1 which is to be the ruler2--the stronger of course is victorious1 and remains supreme4 ,this1 it must be admitted1 is a wiser method of settling the affair than it would be to range the whole band under two distinct banners1 and so create a civil war1 killing and destroying each other for matters with which they individually have little or no concern3 for the bees care not which queen it is1 as long as they are certain of having one to rule over them and perpetuate the community4 ,after perusing the description given above of the attachment of bees to their queen1 it may be easy to imagine the consternation a hive is thrown into when deprived of her presence4 ,the bees first make a diligent search for their monarch in the hive1 and then afterwards rush forth in immense numbers to seek her4 ,when such a commotion is observed in an apiary1 the experienced bee-master will repair the loss by giving a queen3 the bees have generally their own remedy for such a calamity1 in their power of raising a new queen from amongst their larv2 but if neither of these means be available1 the whole colony dwindles and dies4 ,the following is the method by which working bees provide a successor to the throne when deprived of their queen by accident1 or in anticipation of the first swarm1 which is always led by the old queen3-- ,they select1 when not more than three days old1 an egg or grub previously intended for a worker-bee1 and then enlarge the cell so selected by destroying the surrounding partitions2 they thus form a royal cradle1 in shape very much like an acorn cup inverted4 ,the chosen embryo is then fed liberally with a peculiar description of nurture1 called by naturalists royal jelly--a pungent food1 prepared by the working bees exclusively for those of the larv that are destined to become candidates for the honour of royalty4 ,should a queen be forcibly separated from her subjects1 she resents the interference1 refuses food1 pines1 and dies4 ,the whole natural history of the queen-bee is in itself a subject that will well repay for continuous study4 ,those who desire to follow it1 we would refer to the complete works of ,huber--the greatest of apiarians1--,swammerdam1 ,bevan1 ,langstroth1 c4 ,the observations upon the queen-bee needful to verify the above mentioned facts can only be made in hives constructed for the purpose1 of which our ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive is one of the best4 ,in ordinary hives the queen is scarcely ever to be seen2 where there are several rows of comb1 she invariably keeps between them1 both for warmth and to be more secure from danger4 ,the writer has frequently observed in stocks which have unfortunately died1 that the queen was one of the last to expire2 and she is always more difficult to gain possession of than other bees1 being by instinct taught that she is indispensable to the welfare of her subjects4 ,the queen enjoys a far longer life than any of her subjects1 her age generally extending to four or even five years4 ,the drones1 which are mostly hatched in the early spring1 seldom live more than three or four months1 even if they should escape the sting of the executioner1 to which they generally fall victims4 ,the worker-bee1 it is now a well-ascertained fact1 lives from six to eight months1 in no case exceeding the latter2 so that we may reckon that the bees hatched in ,april and ,may expire about the end of the year1 and it is those of the autumn who carry on the duties of the hive until the spring and summer1 that being the time when the greatest number of eggs are laid4 ,the population of a hive is very small during the winter1 in comparison with the vast numbers gathering produce in the summer1--produce which they themselves live to enjoy but for a short period4 ,so that not only1 as of old1 may lessons of industry be learned from bees1 but they also teach self-denial to mankind1 since they labour for the community rather than for themselves4 ,evans1 in describing the age of bees1 thus paraphrases the well known couplet of ,homer in allusion to the fleeting generations of men3-- ,like leaves on trees1 the race of bees is found1 ,now green in youth1 now withering on the ground2 ,another race the spring or fall supplies4 ,they droop successive1 and successive rise4 ,the ,drone4--,the drones are male bees2 they possess no sting1 are more hairy and larger than the common bee1 and may be easily distinguished by their heavy motion1 thick-set form1 and louder humming4 ,evans thus describes the drones3-- ,their short proboscis sips4 ,no luscious nectar from the wild thyme's lips2 ,from the lime leaf no amber drops they steal4 ,not bear their grooveless thighs the foodful meal3 ,on others' toils in pampered leisure thrive1 ,the lazy fathers of the industrious hive2 ,yet oft1 we're told1 these seeming idlers share ,the pleasing duties of parental care2 ,with fond attention guard each genial cell1 ,and watch the embryo bursting from the shell4 ,but ,dr4 ,evans had been told what was not correct when he sought to dignify drones with the office of nursing fathers1--that task is undertaken by the younger of the working-bees4 ,no occupation falls to the lot of the drones in gathering honey1 nor have they the means provided them by nature for assisting in the labours of the hive4 ,the drones are the progenitors of working bees1 and nothing more2 so far as is known1 that is the only purpose of their short existence4 ,in a well-populated hive the number of drones is computed at from one to two thousand4 ,naturalists1 says ,huber1 have been extremely embarrassed to account for the number of males in most hives1 and which seem only a burden to the community1 since they appear to fulfil no function4 ,but we now begin to discern the object of nature in multiplying them to such an extent4 ,as fecundation cannot be accomplished within the hive1 and as the queen is obliged to traverse the expanse of the atmosphere1 it is requisite that the males should be numerous1 that she may have the chance of meeting some one of them in her flight4 ,were only two or three in each hive1 there would be little probability of their departure at the same instant with the queen1 or that they would meet her in their excursions2 and most of the females might thus remain sterile4 ,it is important for the safety of the queen-bee that her stay in the air should be as brief as possible3 her large size1 and the slowness of her flight1 render her an easy prey to birds4 ,it is not now thought that the queen always pairs with a drone of the same hive1 as ,huber seems to have supposed4 ,once impregnated1--as is the case with most insects1--the queen-bee continues productive during the remainder of her existence4 ,it has1 however1 been found that though old queens cease to lay worker eggs1 they may continue to lay those of drones4 ,the swarming season being over1 that is about the end of ,july1 a general massacre of the lazy fathers takes place4 ,dr4 ,bevan1 in the ,honey ,bee1 observes on this point1 the work of the drones being now completed1 they are regarded as useless consumers of the fruits of others' labour1 love is at once converted into hate1 and a general proscription takes place4 ,the unfortunate victims evidently perceive their danger1 for they are never1 at this time1 seen resting in one place1 but darting in and out of the hive with the utmost precipitation1 as if in fear of being seized4 ,their destruction is thought1 by some1 to be caused by their being harassed until they quit the hive2 but ,huber says he ascertained that the death of the drones was caused by the stings of the workers4 ,supposing the drones come forth in ,may1 which is the average period of their being hatched1 their destruction takes place somewhere about the commencement of ,august1 so that three months is the usual extent of their existence2 but should it so happen that the usual development of the queen has been retarded1 or that the hive has in any case been deprived of her1 the massacre of the drones is deferred4 ,but in any case1 the natural term of the life of drone bees does not exceed four months1 so that they are all dead before the winter1 and are not allowed to be useless consumers of the general store4 ,the ,worker ,bee4--,the working bees form1 by far1 the most numerous class of the three kinds contained in the hive1 and least of all require description4 ,they are the smallest of the bees1 are dark brown in colour or nearly black1 and much more active on the wing than are either drones or queens4 ,the usual number in a healthy hive varies from twelve to thirty thousand2 and1 previous to swarming1 exceeds the larger number4 ,the worker-bee is of the same sex as the queen1 but is only partially developed4 ,any egg of a worker-bee1--by the cell being enlarged1 as already described1 and the royal jelly being supplied to the larva1--may be hatched into a mature and perfect queen4 ,this1 one of the most curious facts connected with the natural history of bees1 may be verified in any apiary by most interesting experiments1 which may be turned to important use4 ,with regard to the supposed distinctions between nursing and working bees1 it is now agreed that it only consists in a division of labour1--the young workers staying at home to feed the larv until they are themselves vigorous enough to range the fields in quest of supplies4 ,but1 for many details of unfailing interest1 we must again refer our readers to the standard works on bees that have already been named4 ,the ,eggs of ,bees4--,it is necessary that some explanation should be given as to the existence of the bee before it emerges from the cell4 ,the eggs of all the three kinds of bees when first deposited are of an oval shape1 and of a bluish-white colour4 ,in four or five days the egg changes to a worm1 and in this stage is known by the names of larva or grub1 in which state it remains four to six days more2 during this period it is fed by the nurse-bees with a mixture of farina and honey1 a constant supply of which is given to it3 the next transformation is to the nymph or pupa form2 the nurse-bees now seal up the cell with a preparation similar to wax2 and then the pupa spins round itself a film or cocoon1 just as a silkworm does in its chrysalis state4 ,the microscope shows that this cradle-curtain is perforated with very minute holes1 through which the baby-bee is duly supplied with air4 ,no further attention on the part of the bees is now requisite except a proper degree of heat1 which they take care to keep up1 a position for the breeding cells being selected in the centre of the hive where the temperature is likely to be most congenial4 ,twenty-one days after the egg is first laid 7unless cold weather should have retarded it7 the bee quits the pupa state1 and nibbling its way through the waxen covering that has enclosed it1 comes forth a winged insect4 ,in the ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive1 the young bees may distinctly be seen as they literally fight their way into the world1 for the other bees do not take the slightest notice1 nor afford them any assistance4 ,we have frequently been amused in watching the eager little new-comer1 now obtruding its head1 and anon compelled to withdraw into the cell1 to escape being trampled on by the apparently unfeeling throng1 until at last it has succeeded in making its exit4 ,the little grey creature1 after brushing and shaking itself1 enters upon its duties in the hive1 and in a day or two may be seen gathering honey in the fields--some say on the day of its birth1--thus early illustrating that character for industry1 which has been proverbial1 at least1 since the days of ,aristotle1 and which has in our day been rendered familiar even to infant minds through the nursery rhymes of ,dr4 ,watts4 ,increase of ,bees4--,every one is familiar with the natural process of swarming1 by which bees provide themselves with fresh space and seek to plant colonies to absorb their increase of population4 ,but the object of the bee-master is to train and educate his bees1 and in so doing he avoids much of the risk and trouble which is incurred by allowing the busy folk to follow their own devices4 ,the various methods for this end adopted by apiarians all come under the term of the depriving system2 and they form part of the great object of humane and economical bee-keeping1 which is to save the bees alive instead of slaughtering them as under the old clumsy system4 ,a very natural question is often asked1--how it is that upon the depriving system1 where our object is to prevent swarming1 the increase of numbers is not so great as upon the old plan8 ,it will be seen that the laying of eggs is performed by the queen only1 and that there is but one queen to each hive2 so that where swarming is prevented1 there remains only one hive or stock1 as the superfluous princesses are not allowed to come to maturity4 ,our plan of giving additional store-room will1 generally speaking1 prevent swarming2 this stay-at-home policy1 we contend1 is an advantage1 for instead of the loss of time consequent upon a swarm hanging out preparatory to flight1 all the bees are engaged in collecting honey1 and that at a time when the weather is most favourable and the food most abundant4 ,upon the old system1 the swarm leaves the hive simply because the dwelling has not been enlarged at the time when the bees are increasing4 ,the emigrants are always led off by the old queen1 leaving either young or embryo queens to lead off after swarms1 and to furnish a mistress for the old stock1 and carry on the multiplication of the species4 ,upon the antiquated and inhuman plan where so great a destruction takes place by the brimstone match1 breeding must1 of course1 be allowed to go on to its full extent to make up for such sacrifices4 ,our chief object under the new system is to obtain honey free from all extraneous matter4 ,pure honey cannot be gathered from combs where storing and breeding are performed in the same compartment4 ,for fuller explanations on this point1 we refer to the various descriptions of our improved hives in a subsequent section of this work4 ,there can now be scarcely two opinions as to the uselessness of the rustic plan of immolating the poor bees after they have striven through the summer so to improve each shining hour4 ,the ancients in ,greece and ,italy took the surplus honey and spared the bees1 and now for every intelligent bee-keeper there are ample appliances wherewith to attain the same results4 ,mr4 ,langstroth quotes from the ,german the following epitaph which1 he says1 might be properly placed over every pit of brimstoned bees3-- ,here ,rests1 ,,cut ,,off ,,from ,,useful ,,labour1 ,a ,,colony ,,of ,,industrious ,,bees1 ,,basely ,,murdered ,,by ,,its ,,ungrateful ,,and ,,ignorant ,,owner4 ,and ,thomson1 the poet of ,the ,seasons1 has recorded an eloquent poetic protest against the barbarous practice1 for which1 however1 in his day there was no alternative3-- ,all1 see1 where robbed and murdered in that pit1 ,lies the still heaving hive6 at evening snatched1 ,beneath the cloud of guilt-concealing night1 ,and fix'd o'er sulphur6 while1 not dreaming ill1 ,the happy people1 in their waxen cells1 ,sat tending public cares4 ,sudden1 the dark1 oppressive steam ascends4 ,and1 used to milder scents1 the tender race4 ,by thousands1 tumble from their honied dome ,into a gulf of blue sulphureous flame6 ,it will be our pleasing task in subsequent chapters to show a more excellent way4 ,,swarming4 ,the spring is the best period at which to open an apiary1 and swarming-time is a good starting point for the new bee-keeper4 ,the period known as the swarming season is during the months of ,may and ,june4 ,with a very forward stock1 and in exceedingly fine weather1 bees do occasionally swarm in ,april4 ,the earlier the swarm the greater is its value4 ,if bees swarm in ,july1 they seldom gather sufficient to sustain themselves through the winter2 though1 by careful feeding1 they may easily be kept alive1 if hived early in the month4 ,the cause of a swarm leaving the stock-hive is1 that the population has grown too large for it4 ,swarming is a provision of nature for remedying the inconvenience of overcrowding1 and is the method whereby the bees seek for space in which to increase their stores4 ,by putting on super hives1 the required relief may1 in many cases1 be given to them2 but should the multiplication of stocks be desired1 the bee-keeper will defer increasing the space until the swarm has issued forth4 ,in ,may1 when the spring has been fine1 the queen-bee is very active in laying eggs1 and the increase in a strong healthy hive is so prodigious that emigration is necessary1 or the bees would cease to work4 ,it is now a well established fact that the old queen goes forth with the first swarm1 preparation having been made to supply her place as soon as the bees determine upon the necessity of a division of their commonwealth4 ,thus the sovereignty of the old hive1 after the first swarm has issued1 devolves upon a young queen4 ,as soon as the swarm builds combs in its new abode1 the emigrant-queen1 being impregnated and her ovaries full1 begins laying eggs in the cells1 and thereby speedily multiplies the labourers of the new colony4 ,although there is now amongst apiarians no doubt that the old queen quits her home1 there is no rule as to the composition of the swarm--old and young alike depart4 ,some show unmistakable signs of age by their ragged wings1 others their extreme youth by their lighter colour2 how they determine which shall stay and which shall go has not yet been ascertained4 ,in preparation for flight1 bees commence filling their honey bags1 taking sufficient1 it is said1 for three days' sustenance4 ,this store is needful1 not only for food1 but to enable the bees to commence the secretion of wax and the building of combs in their new domicile4 ,on the day of emigration the weather must be fine1 warm1 and clear1 with but little wind stirring2 for the old queen1 like a prudent matron1 will not venture out unless the day is in every way favorable4 ,whilst her majesty hesitates1 either for the reasons we have mentioned1 or because the internal arrangements are not sufficiently matured1 the bees will often fly about or hang in clusters at the entrance of the hive for two or three days and nights together1 all labour meanwhile being suspended4 ,the agitation of the little folk is well described by ,evans3-- ,see where1 with hurried step1 the impassioned throng ,pace o'er the hive1 and seem1 with plaintive song1 ,t' invite the loitering queen2 now range the floor1 ,and hang in cluster'd columns from the door2 ,or now in restless rings around they fly1 ,nor spoil thy sip1 nor load the hollowed thigh2 ,e'en the dull drone his wonted ease gives o'er1 ,haps his unwieldly wings1 and longs to soar4 ,but when all is ready1 a scene of the most violent agitation takes place2 the bees rush out in vast numbers1 forming quite a dark cloud as they traverse the air4 ,the time selected for the departure of the emigrants is generally between #aj a4m4 and #c p4m42 most swarms come off within an hour of noon4 ,it is a very general remark that bees choose a ,sunday for swarming1 and probably this is because then greater stillness reigns around4 ,it will not be difficult to imagine that the careful bee-keeper is anxious to keep a strict watch1 lest he should lose such a treasure when once it takes wing4 ,the exciting scene at a bee-swarming has been well described by the apiarian laureate3-- ,up mounts the chief1 and1 to the cheated eye1 ,ten thousand shuttles dart along the sky2 ,as swift through ther rise the rushing swarms1 ,gay dancing to the beam their sunbright forms2 ,and each thin form1 still lingering on the sight4 ,trails as it shoots1 a line of silver light4 ,high poised on buoyant wing1 the thoughtful queen1 ,in gaze attentive1 views the varied scene1 ,and soon her far-fetched ken discerns below2 ,the light laburuam lift her polished brow4 ,wave her green leafy ringlets o'er the glade4 ,swift as the falcon's sweep1 the monarch bends ,her flight abrupt2 the following host descends ,round the fine twig1 like clustered grapes they close ,in thickening wreaths1 and court a short repose4 ,in many country districts it is a time-honoured custom for the good folks of the village to commence on such occasions a terrible noise of tanging and ringing with frying pan and key4 ,this is done with the absurd notion that the bees are charmed with the clangorous din1 and may by it be induced to settle as near as possible to the source of such sweet sounds4 ,this is1 however1 quite a mistake2 there are other and better means for the purpose4 ,the practice of ringing was originally adopted for a different and far more sensible object1 viz41 for the purpose of giving notice that a swarm had issued forth1 and that the owner was anxious to claim the right of following1 even though it should alight on a neighbour's premises4 ,it would ,,dc curious to trace how this ancient ceremony has thus got corrupted from the original design4 ,in case the bees do not speedily after swarming manifest signs of settling1 a few handfuls of sand or loose mould may be thrown up in the air so as to fall among the winged throng2 they mistake this for rain1 and then very quickly determine upon settling4 ,some persons squirt a little water from a garden engine in order to produce the same effect4 ,there are1 indeed1 many ingenious devices used by apiarians for decoying the swarms4 ,mr4 ,langstroth mentions a plan of stringing dead bees together1 and tying a bunch of them on any shrub or low tree upon which it is desirable that they should alight2 another plan is1 to hang some black woven material near the hives1 so that the swarming bees may be led to suppose they see another colony1 to which they will hasten to attach themselves4 ,swarms have a great affinity for each other when they are adrift in the air2 but1 of course1 when the union has been effected1 the rival queens have to do battle for supremacy4 ,a more ingenious device than any of the above1 is by means of a mirror to flash a reflection of the sun's rays amongst a swarm1 which bewilders the bees1 and checks their flight4 ,it is manifestly often desirable to use some of these endeavours to induce early settlement1 and to prevent1 if possible1 the bees from clustering in high trees or under the eaves of houses1 where it may be difficult to hive them4 ,should prompt measures not be taken to hive the bees as soon as the cluster is well formed1 there is danger of their starting on a second flight2 and this is what the apiarian has so much to dread4 ,if the bees set off a second time1 it is generally for a long flight1 often for miles1 so that in such a case it is usually impossible to follow them1 and consequently a valuable colony may be irretrievably lost4 ,too much care cannot be exercised to prevent the sun's rays falling on a swarm when it has once settled4 ,if exposed to heat in this way1 bees are very likely to decamp4 ,we have frequently stretched matting or sheeting on poles so as to intercept the glare1 and thus render their temporary position cool and comfortable4 ,two swarms sometimes depart at the same time and join together2 in such a case1 we recommend that they be treated as one by putting them into a hive as before described1 taking care to give abundant room1 and not to delay affording access to the super hive or glasses4 ,they will settle their own notions of sovereignty by one queen destroying the other4 ,there are means of separating two swarms if done at the time2 but the operation is a formidable one1 and does not always repay even those most accustomed to such manipulation4 ,with regard to preparations for taking a swarm1 our advice to the bee-keeper must be the reverse of ,mrs4 ,glass's notable injunction as to the cooking of a hare4 ,some time before you expect to take a swarm1 be sure to have a proper hive in which to take it1 and also every other requisite properly ready4 ,here we will explain what was said in the introduction as to the safety of moving and handling bees4 ,a bee-veil or dress will preserve the most sensitive from the possibility of being stung4 ,this article1 which may be bought with the hives1 is made of net close enough to exclude bees1 but open enough for the operator's vision4 ,it is made to go over the hat of a lady or cap of a gentleman2 it can be tied round the waist1 and has sleeves fastening at the wrist4 ,a pair of photographer's india rubber gloves completes the full dress of the apiarian1 who is then invulnerable even to enraged bees4 ,but bees when swarming are in an eminently peaceful frame of mind2 having dined sumptuously1 they require to be positively provoked before they will sting4 ,yet there may be one or two foolish bees who1 having neglected to fill their honey bags1 are inclined to vent their ill-humour on the kind apiarian4 ,when all is ready1 the new hive is held or placed in an inverted position under the cluster of bees1 which the operator detaches from their perch with one or two quick shakes2 the floorboard is then placed on the hive1 which is then slowly turned up on to its base1 and it is well to leave it a short time in the same place1 in order to allow of stragglers joining their companions4 ,if the new swarm is intended for transportation to a distance1 it is as well for it to be left at the same spot until evening1 provided the sun is shaded from it3 but if the hive is meant to stand in or near the same garden1 it is better to remove it within half an hour to its permanent position1 because so eager are newly-swarmed bees for pushing forward the work of furnishing their empty house1 that they sally forth at once in search of materials4 ,a swarm of bees in their natural state contains from #aj1jjj to #bj1jjj insects1 whilst in an established hive they number #dj1jjj and upwards4 #e1jjj bees are said to weigh one pound2 a good swarm will weigh from three to five pounds4 ,we have known swarms not heavier than #b pounds1 that were in very excellent condition in ,august as regards store for the winter4 ,hitherto1 all our remarks have had reference to first or prime swarms2 these are the best1 and when a swarm is purchased such should be bargained for4 ,second swarms1 known amongst cottage bee-keepers as casts1 usually issue from the hive nine or ten days after the first has departed4 ,it is not always that a second swarm issues1 so much depends on the strength of the stock1 the weather1 and other causes2 but should the bees determine to throw out another1 the first hatched queen in the stock-hive is prevented by her subjects from destroying the other royal princesses1 as she would do if left to her own devices4 ,the consequence is that1 like some people who cannot have their own way1 she is highly indignant2 and when thwarted in her purpose1 utters1 in quick succession1 shrill1 angry sounds1 much resembling peep1 peep1 commonly called piping1 but which more courtly apiarians have styled the vox regalis4 ,this royal wailing continues during the evening1 and is sometimes so loud as to be distinctly audible many yards from the hive4 ,when this is the case1 a swarm may be expected either on the next day1 or at latest within three days4 ,the second swarm is not quite so chary of weather as the first2 it was the old lady who exercised so much caution1 disliking to leave home except in the best of summer weather4 ,in some instances1 owing to favourable breeding seasons and prolific queens1 a third swarm issues from the hive1 this is termed a colt2 and in remarkable instances1 even a fourth1 which in rustic phrase is designated a filly4 ,a swarm from a swarm is called a maiden swarm1 and according to bee theory1 will again have the old queen for its leader4 ,the bee-master should endeavour to prevent his labourers from swarming more than once2 his policy is rather to encourage the industrious gathering of honey by keeping a good supply of supers on the hives4 ,sometimes1 however1 he may err in putting on the supers too early or unduly late1 and the bees will then swarm a second time1 instead of making use of the store-rooms thus provided4 ,in such a case1 the clever apiarian1 having spread the swarm on the ground1 will select the queen1 and cause the bees to go back to the hive from whence they came4 ,this operation requires an amount of apiarian skill which1 though it may easily be attained1 is greater than is usually possessed4 ,,ii4 ,,modern ,,bee ,,hives4 ,,nutt',s ,,collateral ,,hive4 ,no4 #a4 ,the late ,mr4 ,nutt1 author of ,humanity to ,honey ,bees1 may be regarded as a pioneer of modern apiarians2 we therefore select his hive wherewith to begin a description of those we have confidence in recommending4 ,besides1 an account of ,mr4 ,nutt's hive will necessarily include references to the various principles which subsequent inventors have kept in view4 ,illustration ,nutt's ,collateral ,hive consists of three boxes placed side by side 7,c4 ,a4 ,c71 with an octagonal box ,b on the top which covers a bell-glass4 ,each of the three boxes is #i inches high1 #i inches wide1 and #aa inches from back to front2 thin wooden partitions1--in which six or seven openings corresponding with each other are made--divide these compartments1 so that free access from one box to the other is afforded to the bees2 this communication is stopped when necessary by a zinc slide passing down between each box4 ,the octagonal cover ,b is about #aj inches in diameter and #bj high1 including the sloping octagonal roof1 surmounted with an acorn as a finish4 ,there are two large windows in each of the end boxes1 and one smaller one in the centre box2 across the latter is a thermometer scaled and marked1 so as to be an easy guide to the bee-master1 showing him by the rise in temperature the increased accommodation required4 ,this thermometer is a fixture1 the indicating part being protected by two pieces of glass1 to prevent the bees from coming between it and the window1 and thereby obstructing the view4 ,d ,d are ventilators4 ,in the centre of each of the end boxes is a double zinc tube reaching down a little below the middle1 the outer tube is a casing of plain zinc1 with holes about a quarter of an inch wide dispersed over it2 the inside one is of perforated zinc1 with openings so small as to prevent the escape of the bees1 a flange or rim keeps the tubes suspended through a hole made to receive it4 ,the object in having double tubing1 is to allow the inner one to be drawn up and the perforations to be opened by pricking out the wax1 or rather the propolis1 with which bees close all openings in their hives4 ,these tubes admit a thermometer enclosed in a cylindrical glass1 to be occasionally inserted during the gathering season2 it requires to be left in the tube for about a quarter of an hour2 and on its withdrawal1 if found indicating #ij degrees or more1 ventilation must be adopted to lower the temperature--the ornamental zinc top ,d must be left raised1 and is easily kept in that position by putting the perforated part a little on one side4 ,the boxes before described are placed on a raised double floor-board1 extending the whole length1 viz41 about #cf inches4 ,the floor-board projects a few inches in front4 ,in the centre is the entrance2--as our engraving only shows the back of the hive1 we must imagine it on the other side1--it is made by cutting a sunken way of about half-an-inch deep and #c inches wide1 in the floor-board communicating only with the middle box2 it is through this entrance alone that the bees find their way into the hive1--access to the end boxes and the super being obtained from the inside4 ,an alighting board is fitted close under the entrance for the bees to settle upon when returning laden with honey2 this alighting board is removable for the convenience of packing4 ,the centre1 or stock-box1 ,a1 called by ,mr4 ,nutt the ,pavilion of ,nature1 is the receptacle for the swarm2 for stocking this1 it will be necessary to tack the side tins so as to close the side openings in the partition1 and to tack some perforated zinc over the holes at top2 the swarm may then be hived into it just the same as with a common hive4 ,a temporary bottom-board may be used if the box has to be sent any distance2 or a cloth may be tied round to close the bottom 7the latter plan is best1 because allowing plenty of air71 and when brought home at night1 the bees being clustered at the top1 the cloth or temporary bottom must be removed1 and the box gently placed on its own floor-board1 and the hive set in the place it is permanently to occupy4 ,e ,e are two block fronts which open with a hinge1 a semicircular hole #c inches long1 #b wide in the middle1 is cut in the upper bottom-board immediately under the window of each box2 these apertures are closed by separate perforated zinc slides2 these blocks1 when opened1 afford a ready means of reducing the temperature of the side boxes1 a current of air being quickly obtained1 and are also useful for allowing the bees to throw out any refuse4 ,the centre ,f is a drawer in which is a feeding trough1 so constructed that the bees can descend through the opening before mentioned on to a false bottom of perforated zinc2 liquid food is readily poured in by pulling out the drawer a little way1 the bees come down on to the perforated zinc and take the food by inserting their proboscis through the perforations1 with no danger of being drowned4 ,care must be exercised that the food is not given in such quantity as to come above the holes2 by this means1 each hive has a supply of food accessible only to the inmates1 with no possibility1 when closely shut in1 of attracting robber bees from other hives4 ,the exterior of these hives is well painted with two coats of lead colour1 covered with two coats of green1 and varnished4 ,notwithstanding this preservation1 it is absolutely essential to place such a hive under a shed or cover of some sort1 as the action of the sun and rain is likely to cause the wood to decay1 whilst the extreme heat of a summer sun might cause the combs to fall from their foundations4 ,neat and tasteful sheds may be erected1 either of zinc supported by iron or wooden rods1 or a thatched roof may be supported in the same manner1 and will form a pretty addition to the flower garden4 ,when erecting a covering1 it will be well to make it a foot or two longer1 so as to allow of a cottage hive on either side1 as the appearance of the whole is much improved by such an arrangement4 ,the following directions1 with some adaptation1 are from ,nutt on ,honey ,bees3-- ,in the middle box the bees are to be first placed2--in it they should first construct their beautiful combs1 and under the government of one sovereign--the mother of the hive--carry on their curious work1 and display their astonishing architectural ingenuity4 ,in this box1 the regina of the colony1 surrounded by her industrious1 happy1 humming subjects1 carries on the propagation of her species1 deposits in the cells prepared for the purpose by the other bees1 thousands of eggs1 though she seldom deposits more than one egg in a cell at a time3 these eggs are nursed up into a numerous progeny by the other inhabitants of the hive4 ,it is at this time1 when hundreds of young bees are daily coming into existence1 that the collateral boxes are of the utmost importance--both to the bees domiciled in them1 and to their proprietors2 for when the brood become perfect bees in a common cottager's hive1 a swarm is the necessary consequence4 ,the queen1 accompanied by a vast number of her subjects1 leaves the colony1 and seeks some other place in which to carry on the work nature has assigned her4 ,but as swarming may by proper precaution and attention to this mode of management generally be prevented1 it is good practice to do so2 because the time necessarily required to establish a new colony1 even supposing the cottager succeeds in saving the swarm1 would otherwise be employed in collecting honey1 and in enriching the old hive4 ,here1 then1 is one of the features of this plan--viz41 the prevention of swarming4 ,when symptoms of swarming begin to present themselves1 which may be known by an unusual noise1 the appearance of more than common activity among the bees in the middle box1 and1 above all1 by a sudden rise of temperature1 which will be indicated by the quicksilver in the thermometer rising to #ge degrees as scaled on the thermometer in the box2 when these symptoms are apparent1 the bee master may conclude that additional space is required4 ,the top sliding tin should now be withdrawn from under the bell glass1 which will open to the bees a new store-room2 this they will soon occupy1 and fill with combs and honey of pure whiteness1 if the weather be fine to allow of their uninterrupted labour4 ,it may be well here to mention1 that if the glass have a small piece of clean worker comb attached to the perforated ventilating tube1 the bees will more speedily commence their operations in it4 ,when the glass is nearly filled1 which in a good season will be in a very short space of time1 the bees will again require increased accommodation2 this will also be indicated by the thermometer further rising to #he2 the end box1 as thereon marked1 must now be given them4 ,previously to drawing up a slide to enlarge their crowded house1 the manager should take off the empty end box he intends to open to them1 carefully and thoroughly cleanse it1 and then smear or dress the inside of it with a little liquid honey4 ,thus prepared1 he must return the box to its proper situation1 and then withdraw the sliding tin that hitherto has cut it off from the middle box2 by so doing the store-room is again enlarged4 ,the bees will commence operations in this new apartment4 ,this simple operation1 done at the proper time1 generally prevents swarming2 by it1 the queen gains a vast addition to her dominions1 and1 consequently1 increasing space for the multiplying population of her domicile4 ,provided the weather continue fine1 and the thermometer has risen to #ie degrees1 as marked on the scale1 the remaining tin may be also withdrawn1 thereby giving the bees1 admittance to another box2 there is now no lack of store-rooms nor of employment for our indefatigable labourers4 ,the cylinder thermometer is required to be occasionally dropped into the ventilating tube of the side boxes to ascertain their temperature2 for if exceeding or approaching that of the middle box1 it must be reduced by ventilating2 this is done by raising the zinc tops1 to allow the air to pass through the perforations4 ,the grand object of this system is to keep the end boxes and the bell glass cooler than the pavilion or middle box1 so as to induce the queen to propagate her species there and there only1 and not in the depriving part of the hive2 by this means the side and upper combs are in no way discoloured by brood4 ,the queen requires a considerable degree of warmth2 the middle box does not require more ventilation than the additional openings afford4 ,the bees enjoy coolness in the side boxes1 and thereby the whiteness and purity of the luscious store are increased4 ,after having given directions for the working of the hive1 it remains to be told how to obtain possession of the store1 and to get rid of our industrious tenants from the super and end boxes1 of which the super glass will be almost sure to be filled first1 having been first given to them4 ,the operation of taking honey is best performed in the middle of a fine sunny day4 ,the best mode that we know of is to pass an ordinary table-knife all round underneath the rim of the glass to loosen the cement1 properly called propolis2 then take a piece of fine wire1 or a piece of string will do1 and1 having hold of the two ends1 draw it under the glass very slowly1 so as to allow the bees to get out of the way4 ,having brought the string through1 the glass is now separated from the hive2 but it is well to leave the glass in its place for an hour or so1 the commotion of the bees will then have subsided2 and another advantage we find is1 that the bees suck up the liquid and seal up the cells broken by the cutting off4 ,you can then pass underneath the glass two pieces of tin or zinc2 the one may be the proper slide to prevent the inmates of the hive coming out at the apertures1 the other tin keeps all the bees in the glass close prisoners4 ,after having been so kept a short time1 the apiarian must see whether the bees in the glass manifest symptoms of uneasiness1 because if they do not1 it may be concluded that the queen is among them4 ,in such a case1 replace the glass1 and recommence the operation on a future day4 ,it is not often that her majesty is in the depriving hive or glass2 but this circumstance does sometimes happen1 and the removal at such a time must be avoided4 ,when the bees that are prisoners run about in great confusion and restlessness1 the operator may then conclude that the queen is absent1 and that all is right4 ,the glass may be taken away a little distance off1 and placed in a flower-pot or other receptacle where it will be safe when inverted and the tin taken away1 then the bees will be glad to make their escape back to their hive4 ,a little tapping at the sides of the glass will render their tarriance uncomfortable1 and the glass may then be taken into a darkened room or out-house with only a small aperture admitting light which must be open2 the bees1 like all insects1 make towards the light and so escape4 ,the bee-master should brush them off with a feather from the comb as they can be reached2 but on no account1 if there are many bees1 should the glass be left1 because the bees that are in the glass will gorge themselves to their full and speedily bring a host of others from the adjacent hives1 who1 in a very little time1 would leave only the empty combs4 ,it is truly marvellous how soon they will carry all the store back again1 if allowed to do so4 ,an empty glass should be put on to the hive in place of the full one1 as it will attract the bees up1 thereby preventing the too close crowding of the hive2 and1 if the summer be not too far advanced1 they will work more honey-comb in it4 ,the taking away of the end boxes is a somewhat similar process2 but they should on no account be taken at the same time as the glass1 or indeed at the same time as any other hive may be--robbed we were going to say1 for it is robbery to the bees1--they intended the honey for their winter food1 and are much enraged at being deprived of it4 ,first shut down the dividing tin2 the bees in the end box are now prisoners separated from the hive1 keep them so half an hour1 then take away the box bodily to another part of the garden1 or into the dark out-house as before recommended4 ,it may not be out of place here to say something respecting the enthusiastic inventor of the ,collateral ,hive--,thomas ,nutt1 who was an inhabitant of ,spalding1 in ,lincolnshire4 ,having been disabled during a considerable period by rheumatic fever1 he devoted all his attention to bees1 at a time when bee-culture was but little valued2 and1 although it must be admitted that two boxes were used side by side long before ,mr4 ,nutt's day1 still it is due to him to state that the adoption of three boxes was entirely his own idea1 and that as far as he then knew1 the collateral system was his original invention4 ,his statements have been severely criticised1 and it does appear that the weight of honey which he names as having been produced in one season is perfectly incredible4 ,but as in the district where he lived there is grown an immense quantity of mustard seed--the flowers of which afford excellent forage for bees--the honey harvests there1 would doubtless1 be very large4 ,if ,mr4 ,nutt has given his little favourites too much praise1 it will be only charitable1 now1 to account for his statements by an excess of zeal and enthusiasm in this his study of bee-culture4 ,it may be that the golden harvests he spoke and wrote of have been so far useful that they have induced many to commence bee-keeping1 some of whom1 whilst they condemned his statements1 have themselves written really useful and practical works on the subject1 which otherwise might possibly never have appeared4 ,as the monks of old kept the lamp of religion burning1 however dimly1 until a more enlightened age1 so ,thomas ,nutt may have assisted in a somewhat similar manner by energetically propounding his views1 and thereby causing other apiarians to rise up whose names are now as familiar to us as household words1 and whose works posterity will value4 ,the writer of these pages has often accompanied ,mr4 ,nutt on his visits to his patrons in the neighbourhood of ,london1 and seen him perform his operations regardless of the anger of bees1 and free from all fear of their stings4 ,he often expatiated on the cruelty of the brimstone match and suffocation1 denouncing the barbarous custom in the following terms3--,you may as well kill the cow for her milk1 or the hen for her eggs1 as the bee for its honey2 why continue to light the fatal match1 when every cottage in ,england has the means of saving this most useful and valuable insect8 ,,neighbour',s ,,improved ,,single ,,box ,,hive4 ,no4 #b4 ,illustration ,we have introduced the ,single ,box ,hive to suit the convenience of those who1 though desirous of keeping bees on the improved principle1 do not wish to incur the expense or devote the space which is necessary for ,nutt's hive4 ,it consists of a lower or stock-box ,a41 #aa inches square1 #i inches deep1 with three large windows1 a thermometer ,d1 as in ,nutt's1 being fixed across the front one1 protected at the sides by strips of glass to prevent the bees obscuring the quicksilver from sight4 ,b is a cover the same size as the lower hive1 large enough to allow space for a bell-glass #i inches wide1 #f inches deep4 ,e is the ventilator between the glass and the stock-hive1 intended to prevent the queen travelling into the super hive1 and also by cooling the hive to endeavour to prevent swarming2 a sloping pagoda roof with an acorn top completes the upper story4 ,a floor-board with a block front1 as in ,nutt's collateral1 forms the base1 the entrance being sunk as before described1 and furnished with zinc slides to reduce or close it as may be required4 ,to stock a hive of this description1 it is necessary to send the stock-box to the party with whom you have agreed for the supply of a swarm4 ,in the evening of the day the hive is thus tenanted1 remove it to the position it is designed permanently to occupy2 if the swarm has to be procured from a distance1 and is transported by rail or other conveyance1 a perforated zinc slide should be substituted for the plain slide that covers the top1 and a large piece of perforated zinc must also be tacked to the bottom after the swarm has settled in2 thus securely confined1 with a free circulation of air throughout1 bees that have been swarmed the day before may be safely sent any distance that will allow of their being released the day after1 because bees1 though they provision themselves for a couple of days1 cannot with safety be confined in an empty hive much longer4 ,having now1 we will suppose1 procured your swarm1 and having placed it in a south or south-east aspect1 you may with advantage1 if the weather be wet1 give a little liquid food2 the feeding in this hive is performed at the top of stock-box1 where the glass is worked4 ,our round ,feeding ,pan or the new ,feeding-,bottle may here be used4 ,any fancy as to the position may be indulged in1 but must be settled on by the time the bees are set at liberty1 because any alteration afterwards is detrimental to the working of the hive4 ,the bees on first issuing forth1 carefully mark their new abode and the surrounding objects1 so that if a change be made1 they are completely thrown out in their observations1 which confuses them not a little1 and occasions loss4 ,bees always return to the same spot2 it is the locality that they know1 and if the hive is moved a less distance than a mile1 thousands return to the spot on which the hive has been accustomed to stand4 ,allow your bees to collect honey and build their combs for ten days or a fortnight4 ,much now depends on the weather2 if fine1 by this time they will require additional room1 which will be indicated by the thermometer ,d rapidly rising2 #ajj degrees is the swarming point1 the hive must be kept below this by ventilation4 ,access must now be given to the flat bell-glass at the top1 which is done by withdrawing the top slide4 ,in a few hours1 sometimes immediately1 the work of comb-building begins in the glass--all the sooner1 if a piece of clean empty comb be placed therein4 ,it is of service to keep the glass warm by means of a worsted or baize bag1 it prevents the temperature from falling at night when much comb-building is carried on1 providing the heat is not allowed to escape4 ,probably1 if all goes on well1 in three weeks the glass will be found to be filled with fine white honey-comb4 ,when you find that the comb is well sealed up1 it is time to take it off1 but if the cells are unfilled and unsealed1 let the little labourers complete their work--a little experience will soon enable the bee-keeper to determine this point4 ,the plan to be adopted for taking glasses of honey-comb is the same as described for hive ,no4 #a1 page #ba4 ,,taylor',s ,,amateur ,,shallow ,,box ,,or ,,eight ,,bar ,,hive4 ,no4 #c4 ,illustration ,taylor's ,amateur ,hive1 as seen by reference to the engraving1 consists of three boxes1 the lower one ,a1 is the stock box1 in which the swarm is first placed2 ,b is the first super2 and ,c the centre box2 all three boxes are of the same diameter1 viz41 #ac inches square inside2 ,a1 the stock box1 is #g deep2 ,b1 #f inches2 both are fitted with eight moveable bars1 each bar being #a wide1 with spaces of half an inch between1 and all are easily removed by unscrewing the crown board1 in which are two openings closed by zinc slides2 the middle box ,c has no bars1 and is still shallower than either of the other boxes1 being #e inches deep4 ,in many localities and seasons1 the third box may not be required4 ,each box has two windows--one at the back and another at the side1 a zinc shutter sliding in a groove1 excluding light and retaining warmth2 the box ,c differs from the others in another respect2 instead of bars it has a grating made by seven openings1 each an inch wide and #i inches long2 these three boxes stand on a stout floor-board1 in which is cut the entrance way1 #d inches wide and of an inch high4 ,the floor-board projects so as to support an outer cover of half-inch wood1 surmounted by a sloping roof4 ,this is an effectual protection from the weather1 and is necessary when hives are exposed2 of course1 if placed in a bee-house such protection may be dispensed with4 ,the outer case is well painted1 of a green colour1 and when it is used the hive may be placed in any part of the garden4 ,the dimensions of this hive1 with outside cover1 are #ah inches square1 #b feet #f inches high4 ,suitable stands are provided1 consisting of a stout pedestal with four feet4 ,stakes should be driven into the ground to secure the whole against wind4 ,height from the ground1 #d feet #c inches4 ,the bars before alluded to are for the purpose of inducing the bees to build parallel combs2 for without this1 extraction would be impossible4 ,it is a great convenience1 in many ways1 to be able to take out a bar of comb1 it gives such complete control over the hive4 ,to ensure comb-building on the bars1 pieces of clean worker comb should always be carefully preserved2 and before a swarm is put in1 either every bar1 or if guide comb is not plentiful1 every other bar should have a piece fixed to it in the following manner3 cut a piece of clean empty comb of the required size1 say two inches square1 not less2 heat a common flat iron1 and slightly warm the bar with it1 then melt a little bees-wax upon it2 draw the comb quick over the heated iron1 hold it down on the centre of the bar1 giving a very slight movement backwards and forwards1 then leave it to grow cold2 and if cleverly managed1 it will be found to be firmly attached4 ,care must be taken that the pitch or inclination of the comb be the same as it is in the hives--upwards from the centre of each comb4 ,a new plan has lately been introduced by ,mr4 ,woodbury1 of ,exeter1 to facilitate the correct construction of parallel combs4 ,,taylor',s ,,amateur ,,bar ,,hive4 ,no4 #d4 ,taylor's ,amateur ,bar ,hive is stocked exactly in the same way as before described--viz41 by hiving the swarm into the lowest box ,a1 as with an ordinary ,cottage ,hive1 and in a fortnight's time the box ,b is placed over it1 and the zinc slides withdrawn4 ,after this has been given them1 and is nearly filled1 the super ,b is raised1 and the box ,c is placed between1 immediately over the stock box1 to induce the bees to continue the combs4 ,this hive consists of three boxes1 one above the other1 similar to the ,no4 #c4 ,the boxes are less in diameter than the foregoing1 and have seven moveable bars in each4 ,recent improvements and observations led ,mr4 ,taylor to prefer eight bars1 and to have the boxes made a little more shallow4 ,the mode of stocking and management of this hive are the same as that last described4 ,there is no outside cover or protection from the weather1 but the wood is additionally thick and is well painted4 ,we quite concur with ,mr4 ,taylor in recommending a broader and shallower hive1 and advise intending purchasers to select the eight-bar hive in preference4 ,,neighbour',s ,,improved ,,cottage ,,hive4 ,no4 #e4 ,illustration ,our ,improved ,cottage ,hive is neatly made of straw bound with cane1 and therefore very durable4#c ,the lower hive is covered with a wooden top having in it three holes1 through which the bees convey their honey into three middle sized bell glasses with ventilators1 which when filled hold about #f lb4 each4 ,there is a hoop at the bottom1 another round the top of the lower hive2 to this the wooden crown board is fastened4 ,these hoops are a great improvement1 and are less liable to harbour insects than if straw alone were used4 ,the floor-board1 as its name implies1 is a wooden board1 #a inch thick1 with a projection of #c or #d inches under the entrance to form an alighting place4 ,this entrance is cut out of1 or sunk in the board4 ,footnote #c3 ,this is the hive referred to by the ,bee-,master of the ,times1 when he says3--,the second kind of hive ,i alluded to is made of straw1 and may be purchased at ,neighbour's1 in ,holborn4 99 99 99 99 ,it is so well made that it will last very long4 ,i have had one in constant use during ten years1 and it is still as good us when it was bought4 ,there are three windows in the lower hive1 each closed with a shutter1 these are very useful and interesting for inspecting the progress made4 ,across the centre window is a thermometer1 enclosed at the sides by slips of glass4 ,the window shutters being painted green1 add very much to its appearance4 ,the upper hive1 which is merely a cover for the glasses1 is a conical topped hive1 also made of straw bound with cane2 a hoop is worked into the straw1 and made sufficiently large to allow the cover to drop over the top hoop of the lower hive1 keeping the whole close1 and preventing wet from drifting in4 ,a zinc ventilator1 ornamentally painted1 forms the apex3 this is useful in letting the confined hot air pass away in warm weather4 ,the ventilator is opened by raising it4 ,the dimensions of the lower or stock hive are #ae inches diameter1 #i inches deep outside1 its weight when empty #g lbs41 the cover or top hive is #ab inches deep1 and #ae inches in diameter1 the ornamental zinc top being #d inches deep4 ,the whole is about #bd inches high4 ,the weight of a hive packed1 including glasses1 c41 is about #ah lbs4 ,these hives have a tasteful appearance in the garden1 but they require some further protection from the weather in the form of a cover or of a bee-house--contrivances that have yet to be described4 ,in extreme cold weather1 a little additional protection by having matting folded round them will be advisable4 ,one of the advantages this hive has over the common cottage hive is that it affords opportunity for the humane management of bees4 ,the owner has also the power of taking a glass of honey-comb of pure quality1 free from the extraneous matter1 known as bee-bread1 instead of combs that are darkened by having brood hatched in them4 ,by this system1 we have combs newly made and used only for depositing the honey first put into them1 hence the name virgin honey4 ,these glasses have a very pretty appearance1 and when nicely filled1 are very convenient for home use or for making presents4 ,the lower hive is the receptacle for the bees2 when a swarm is placed in this hive1 they immediately proceed to fill it with combs1 in which to store honey for themselves1 and for cells to breed in4 ,this hive remains undisturbed4 ,the best mode of tenanting a hive of this description is by placing an early and strong swarm in it1 which may be generally procured of a neighbouring bee-keeper2 if from a distance1 considerable care is necessary to admit plenty of air2 the shaking attendant upon carriage irritates the bees so much that1 if not well ventilated1 there is danger of the swarm being stifled1 and the finer the swarm1 the greater the danger4 ,for the purpose of ventilation1 remove the slides and substitute perforated zinc1 wrapping the hive up in a coarse cloth of open texture 7dispensing with the floor-board during transit when the distance is great74 ,it is necessary only to send the lower or stock hive to the party furnishing the swarm1 taking the precaution to fix the slides at top with tacks1 as the hive has to be inverted to receive the bees4 ,they are shaken into it in the usual manner1 as they cluster around the branch of the tree or shrub on which they may have chosen to alight4 ,after the hiving is accomplished1 the hive should be left near to catch any stragglers1 for there will always be a few2 towards evening1 close the entrance1 and remove them to the exact position they are intended permanently to occupy4 ,success depends on this1 and also on their careful removal on the day or evening of swarming4 ,the following morning the bees labour in the new location1 marking well their habitation before they take flight1 and to which they will not fail to return loaded with luscious store4 ,a fortnight must be allowed for filling the stock hive2 then1 if the weather be fine and warm1 they will prepare to swarm again1 as will be indicated by the thermometer rising rapidly to #ajj degrees or upwards2 one of the zinc slides on the wooden top must now be withdrawn1 and a bell glass put on covered and protected by the upper hive1 the other glasses may then be given in the same manner2 a day or two after which1 should the weather continue favourable1 all signs of swarming will at once disappear1 the bees now having increased store room which they will readily fill with comb4 ,it is often found useful to attach a piece of clean empty honey comb to the ventilating tube of the glass2 it is an attraction1 and induces the bees to commence working in it sooner than they otherwise would do4 ,the ventilator should also remain open during the day to allow the hot air to pass away from the interior1 thereby contributing to the whiteness and beauty of the work2 the bees enjoy the refreshment of coolness thereby afforded1 and they work the faster for it4 ,at evening all ventilation should be stopped1 and the glasses wrapped round with flannel or some warm material1 for the reasons mentioned on last page4 ,the directions for taking honey are also the same as before mentioned4 ,the holes on the wooden top of this hive are of a peaked shape1 being a preventive against slaughtering any bees whilst pushing the slide in for the purpose of removing the glass when full2 the tacks before alluded to should be removed from the slides when the hive is fixed in its place1 they are now in the way of cutting off the glass4 ,the hive entrance has two slides3 the perforated one is but seldom required1 the bees object to being closely confined1 it is only necessary when removing1 and then for as little time as possible2 the other slide is very serviceable during the winter months to lessen the passage way1 thereby preventing the admission of too much cold air2 it is also occasionally useful on a summer evening1 to lessen the entrance when moths are troublesome1 for if there be only a small opening1 the bees can guard it1 and easily repulse intruders4 ,during the time of gathering they require the whole width to remain open4 ,when the weather is so unfavourable as to prevent the bees leaving home for a few days after being hived1 it will be necessary to feed them4 ,bees should not be fed in the midst of winter2 the proper time is in the autumn or in the spring4 ,the best mode of feeding is at the top of the ,stock ,hive4 ,this is done by using the ,round ,feeder4 ,the ,bottle ,feeder may be used instead of the ,round ,feeder1 and in the same place1 by those who give the preference to that method4 ,the simplicity and easy management of this hive have deservedly rendered it an especial favourite1 combining1 as it does1 real utility with many conveniences to satisfy the curious4 ,not a few bee-keepers desire to unite the two qualifications1 and no hive combines these advantages in a greater degree than ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage ,hive4 ,,improved ,,cottage ,,hive4 ,no4 #f4 ,the ,no4 #f hive is of precisely the same size1 construction1 and management as the last mentioned1 with the exception that it has no windows or thermometer in the lower or stock hive4 ,the apiarian with this hive will have to trust more to his own judgment as regards the likelihood of swarming1 and must watch the appearance the bees present at the entrance4 ,when it is time to put on supers in order to prevent swarming1 premonition will be given by the unusual numbers crowding about the entrance1 as well as by the heat of the weather1 making it evident that more room is required for the increasing population4 ,not being able to form an idea of the state of the hive in spring and autumn by looking into the stock hive1 it will be advisable to adopt the means of weighing4 ,a stock at ,michaelmas should weigh #bj lbs4 exclusive of the hive1 or be made up to that weight by feeding4 ,,the ,,ladies' ,,observatory ,,of ,,crystal ,,bee-,,hive4 ,no4 #g4 ,illustration ,this engraving illustrates the construction of the ,ladies ,observatory hive4 ,the stock hive cylindrical with a flat top and a hole in the centre2 the dimensions #ab inches inside1 #h inches deep1 the outer cover being raised1 and is made of stout glass1 so as not easily to break4 ,a support1 composed of seven wooden bars fixed on a pedestal from the floorboard1 is very useful for the bees to cling to and attach their combs1 instead of resting wholly against the glass4 ,the floor-board is of mahogany1 the border being ,french polished4 ,a middle sized bell-glass for deprivation is placed over the hole2 this hole may be closed by a zinc slide4 ,a cover of straw1 #ah inches deep1 #ae inches wide1 with a zinc ventilating top similar to that affixed to the ,no4 #e hive1 completes the arrangements4 ,the weight of the stock hive and board is about #af lbs4 ,this hive is well adapted for those persons who are desirous of having the opportunity of more closely examining the workmanship of these industrious and interesting insects1 as the whole of the interior may be exposed to view2 it is particularly suitable for a window or an indoor apiary1 and also will be found a valuable addition to the green house4 ,under these circumstances1 the entrance-way should be covered with a flat piece of glass1 and an aperture cut in the sash corresponding with the entrance to the hive2 through the glazed passage the bees may then find egress and ingress without being able to gain access to the apartment2 an alighting board four inches wide must be fixed outside on a level with the entrance4 ,we had a hive of this kind in operation in the ,great ,exhibitions of #ahea and #ahfb1 fixed in the manner above described4 ,it answered admirably1 and excited much interest and curiosity1 though placed there under many disadvantages4 ,when a hive of this kind is to be stocked1 procure an early and strong swarm1 which must be temporarily hived in a common straw hive1 from which dislodge the bees into the glass hive1 but for this purpose a little preparation will have to be made4 ,spread a sheet on the ground1 place the mahogany floorboard on it with the support1 put three bricks1 or some solid blocks of about the same substance1 upon which the glass will rest2 then with a sharp and sudden blow precipitate the swarm out of the straw hive on to the floorboard and support1 place the glass hive on the bricks1 and the bees will collect under the bars and on to the pedestal4 ,in about one hour's time the whole will have settled quietly1 and all the stragglers on the board will have collected together1 the swarm hanging pear-shaped from the bar support2 the bricks can now be removed1 and the glass put in its right place on the floorboard4 ,the straw cover being put on the hive1 it can be removed to the place it is destined permanently to occupy4 ,the light should not be admitted for some days after hiving2 if undisturbed1 the bees will speedily build comb1 working from the wooden bars which are placed there for their assistance and support4 ,in ten days or a fortnight1 if the weather continues fine and warm1 they will prepare to swarm again2 the opening at the top must now be unstopped1 and the bell-glass put on1 guide comb having been previously fixed4 ,the directions given for the ,no4 #e1 ,cottage ,hive equally apply to the ,ladies' ,observatory ,hive4 ,it is advisable in winter to furnish the glass stock hive with more protection from cold than is afforded by the straw cover alone2 some thick baize or wrapper of wadding1 for which there is space between the glass hive and the cover1 will prevent so much moisture condensing on the sides of the glass4 ,moisture is injurious1 causing the combs to grow mouldy2 a little protection in the way of wrapping very much prevents this4 ,the hole at top is used for supplying food should the apiarian fear the stock of honey is in danger of running short2 either the bottle feeder1 or the round feeder1 may be used for the purpose4 ,,cottager',s ,,hive1 ,no4 #h4 ,,for ,,taking ,,honey ,,in ,,straw ,,caps ,,without ,,the ,,destruction ,,of ,,the ,,bees4 ,illustration ,a very prevalent opinion exists that bees do better in straw than in hives made of any other material4 ,another opinion prevails1 viz41 that the old fashioned straw hive is the least expensive1 the most simple1 and the most productive4 ,although we cannot go so far as this1 we are willing to admit that a simplified adaptation of the humane system to the old common straw hive is the most suitable to put into the hands of that large class of bee-keepers--,cottagers4 ,by these the more fanciful hives will be instantly condemned2 besides1 the expense puts them quite beyond the reach of the poorer class4 ,the object aimed at in planning our ,cottager's ,hive has been to furnish a depriving hive that should be at once easy of management1 inexpensive1 and convenient4 ,the stock hive1 into which the bees are first hived1 is a round straw hive1 having a flat top with a hole in the centre4 ,the size of this lower hive is #g or #h inches deep1 #ad inches across the bottom1 finished with a wooden hoop1 which adds very much to the firmness and durability of the hive4 ,the floorboard is #a inch thick1 with a way sunk therein for the entrance4 ,a small round mat of straw closes the hole on the top2 this mat may be fixed by wooden pegs4 ,we have now described what is termed the stock hive1 which is1 in fact1 an old fashioned straw hive adapted1 modernised1 and improved to the more humane1 viz41 the depriving system4 ,the weight of the stock hive with its floorboard is about #g lbs4 ,the super or cap hive is about #g inches deep1 #h inches in diameter1 and when filled contains about #aj lbs4 of honey and comb4 ,a glass window which is placed at the side is useful for inspecting the progress made in filling it4 ,a common straw hive1 sufficiently deep to cover1 drops over the super1 keeping the window dark and fitting close on to the stock hive4 ,this cover hive may be made fast by driving in two skewers1 one on either side1 to keep the whole firm4 ,unless placed in a bee-house or under a shed1 the outside should be painted2 or a piece of oil-cloth or waterproof covering of any kind shaped so as to shoot off the rain1 will save the trouble of paint1 and answer the purpose4 ,if no protection of this sort is used1 the rain is likely to rot the straw4 ,as a covering cottagers often use straight stiff thatching straw sewed together2 this contrivance is termed a hackle1 and has a pretty appearance1 particularly if a number of hives are in a row4 ,care has to be exercised that mice do not make the covering hive a resting place4 ,mortar is often used for fastening round the hive at the bottom2 this is a bad plan1 as it forms a harbour for insects2 the wooden hoop fits so close as to leave little necessity for anything of the kind4 ,the principle of the depriving system is so much the same with all our hives1 that a good deal of repetition is necessary in describing in detail the management of each separate variety4 ,the object aimed at with the ,cottager's ,hive1 as indeed with all our hives1 is to provide a compartment for the bees to live in with their queen1 she being the mother of all4 ,it is intended1 by inducing the queen to remain in her original apartment1 that all breeding should be there performed1 as well as the storing of bee-bread and honey for the winter sustenance of the bees4 ,the cap hive or upper chamber1 known as the super1 is for the storing of honey which the bee-keeper looks upon as a surplus1 and which1 at the close of the honey gathering1 or as soon as filled1 he intends to deprive the bees of1 and appropriate to his own use1--of course taking care to leave sufficient in the lower or stock hive for winter sustenance4 ,the mode of stocking a hive of this kind is so familiarly known that any who at all understand the hiving of bees into a common straw hive1 can make no mistake or find any difficulty in performing it4 ,lest these pages should fall into the hands of persons who are not so acquainted1 we will refer them to the directions already given4 ,the hive may be smeared inside with a little honey if at hand2 but this is unimportant1 as a clean hive answers well4 ,some older bee-keepers prefer to give a little dressing to encourage the bees to like their new home4 ,after the swarm has been in the hive two weeks1 the straw super hive may be put on1 first removing the straw mat to give the bees access to it4 ,if the hive be a stock1 that is a swarm of the last or previous years1 the super may be put on as soon as the weather is fine and warm in ,may4 ,but much depends on the weather and the strength of the hive as regards the time occupied by the bees in filling the super2 in favourable weather a fortnight suffices4 ,if1 on looking in at the little window1 the bee-master sees that the cells are scaled over1 the cap of honey may be removed in the mode already described4 ,the cells near the window are the last to be filled1 so when they are sealed1 it is safe to conclude that the combs in the unseen parts are also finished4 ,sometimes the queen ascends and deposits her eggs2 if1 on turning up the super1 brood be visible1 replace the cap for a few days1 until the young bees quit their cells4 ,when thus emptied1 honey will be deposited in lieu of the brood4 ,suitable pedestals for these hives to stand upon may be obtained4 ,it is important that these be firmly fixed1 and the hive also made fast to the stand1 to prevent its being blown over by high winds4 ,,bar ,,and ,,frame ,,hives4 ,illustration ,mr4 ,woodbury's ,bar and ,frame ,hive1 as originally made1 consists of a wooden box #ad inches square inside1 #i inches deep4 ,this is a hive of large size1 but the actual habitable space inside is lessened by the room occupied by the frames1 of which there are ten2 these rest on a rabbet a little below the surface1 leaving a space of of an inch between the upper side of the bars and the crown board4 ,this allows a free passage on the top for the bees1 entirely obviating the necessity of making excavations in the crown board1 as has hitherto been recommended4 ,each frame is of an inch wide1 and rests in notches1 with a space of an inch between each4 ,the frames extend to within of an inch of the floorboard1 so as to hang without touching any part1 leaving about the same distance from the sides4 ,it will be seen that there is a free passage for the bees on every side1 and they are thus kept from coming in contact with the sides of the hive4 ,our engraving shows the hive open1 and exposes to view the top of the ten bars and frames as they range from back to front4 ,a window is also shown2 this is placed in the engraving over the entrance1 but the proper position would be just opposite4 ,the drawing is made so as to show back and front at once4 ,the floorboard is #a inch thick1 having two keys on the underside to prevent warping4 ,,straw ,,bar ,,and ,,frame ,,hive4 ,no4 #de4 ,illustration ,since the introduction of the wood hive by ,mr4 ,woodbury1 that gentleman has recommended1 in the ,journal of ,horticulture1 that the stock hive be made of straw1 of exactly the same dimensions2 this material being warmer in winter1 slightly ventilating1 and allowing of absorption4 ,bees during cold weather cluster together to generate the requisite degree of heat1 the temperature of the interior of the hive being thus so much higher than the external atmosphere1 a good deal of moisture condenses at the top and on the sides of the hive2 the straw1 as before stated1 prevents this dampness hanging about the hive1 and tends to keep the inmates more healthy4 ,dampness in a hive is a fruitful source of mischief1 causing empty combs to grow mouldy1 and is injurious in many ways4 ,the square straw hives1 and a machine for making them1 exhibited in the ,austrian department of the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb1 suggested the idea of employing that material for ,english bar and frame hives4 ,we have had made a machine somewhat similar to the one exhibited and suited to the size of our hives1 by which our hive maker is able to manufacture neat square straw hives4 ,these have a wood frame at top an inch deep1 with the requisite notches to allow the ten comb frames to hang4 ,a similar frame forms the base1 the straw being worked between4 ,the floorboard is #a inch thick1 keyed with stout keys as before mentioned4 ,an inch projection is left on all sides beyond the exterior of the hive1 from which it is slightly chamfered down4 ,an entrance #d inches wide is cut out of the substance of the board1 beginning at the edge1 and continuing on the same level until inside the hive1 where it slopes upwards4 ,this entrance is about of an inch high where the hive crosses it4 ,these straw hives have been generally made without windows2 as ,mr4 ,woodbury and other scientific apiarians so prefer them4 ,they consider that glass windows are unsuited for winter1 because then moisture condenses on the glass4 ,there is no doubt that the having a peep hole or two in a hive adds very agreeably to its value for amateur bee-keepers1 and to meet the wishes of such1 we have had straw hives constructed with windows4 ,it is not every one who would like to lift out the frames as often as is necessary for an inspection of the state of the colony1 nor1 perhaps1 is it advisable to be often thus meddling4 ,the windows have also a very neat appearance4 ,we have hives with one1 and some with two and three windows2 of course1 a little extra expense is incurred where these are made2 but that is not objected to by those who approve of the additional convenience4 ,the crown board 7if correct to call a straw top by that name7 has1 like the hive1 a frame of wood all round1 and a square piece of wood in the centre1 with a two inch hole2 this hole is for the purpose of administering food in a mode to be explained hereafter4 ,a circular block of wood1 #d inches in diameter1 closes the opening4 ,,glass ,,bar ,,and ,,frame ,,hives4 ,illustration ,some bee-keepers like to be able to make a full and daily inspection of the hive2 we have therefore prepared a few hives1 constructed of wooden frames enclosed on all sides and on the top with window glass4 ,the dimensions are precisely the same as those before mentioned1 and allow of the same number of bars and frames 7ten74 ,the crown has a round hole cut in the glass to admit of feeding4 ,the four sides are constructed of double glass1 to preserve the bees from variations of temperature4 ,we cannot1 however1 recommend this hive for a winter residence for the bees2 we should prefer lifting the combs out with the bees1 and placing them in a straw hive of similar construction1 to pass through the ordeal of the winter season4 ,a stock of bees might be kept through the year in a hive of this kind1 but would require well wrapping round to keep out the cold4 ,there should be a small glass over the hole at top so as to allow the moisture to arise and condense1 instead of doing so in the hive4 ,the operation of exchanging the hive is so easy1 that we should be content to place a stock in one1 say1 from ,april to ,september1 and shift it in the autumn4 ,such a hive is a very pleasing object of interest1 as in it the whole commonwealth of bees is exposed to view2 and the hive need not be obscured from daylight1 provided it be protected from sun and rain4 ,all the external wood-work is of oak colour varnished1 so that the appearance of the ,glass ,bar and ,frame ,hive is extremely neat and much approved of4 ,illustration ,frame4--,as before mentioned1 each stock hive has ten of these frames1 each #ac inches long by #g inches high1 with a inch projection at either upper end1 which rests in the notch1 either back or front4 ,the width both of the bar and frame is of an inch2 this is less by of an inch than the bar recommended by the older apiarians4 ,mr4 ,woodbury1--whose authority on the modern plans for keeping bees is of great weight1--finds the of an inch bar an improvement1 because with them the combs are closer together1 and require fewer bees to cover the brood4 ,then1 too1 in the same space that eight old fashioned bars occupied the narrower frames admit of an additional bar1 so that1 by using these1 increased accommodation is afforded for breeding and the storing of honey4 ,illustration3 ,section of bar4 ,improved ,comb ,bar4--,mr4 ,woodbury says that this little contrivance has proved very effectual in securing straight combs when guide combs are not obtainable4 ,the lower angles are rounded off1 whilst a central rib is added of about of an inch in breadth and depth4 ,this central rib extends to within an inch of each end1 where it is removed in order to admit of the bar fitting into the usual notch4 ,all that is necessary to insure the regular formation of combs is1 to coat the underneath surface of the central rib with melted wax4 ,mr4 ,woodbury further says1 my practice is to use plain bars whenever guide-combs are attainable1 as these can be attached with much greater facility to a plain than to a ribbed bar2 but whenever ,i put in a bar without comb1 ,i always use one of the improved ones4 ,by this method1 crooked and irregular combs are altogether unknown in my apiary4 ,most of our bars are made with the ridge2 but should any of our customers prefer the flat ones1 we keep a few to supply their requirements4 ,with the moveable bar and frame hive every comb is available for extraction1 and may easily be taken out of the hive2 each comb being fixed within its frame1 there is less disturbance to the bees than if the combs were fixed to the sides1 as is the case with ordinary hives4 ,a strip of wood1 about an inch wide1 rests on the floorboard2 in this strip are ten notches1 made to receive the lower part of the frames1 so as to retain them in their places at equal distances from each other4 ,a difficulty is found with a well stocked hive in dropping the frames into the exact notches1 so that it is not necessary to have these rack works always in use2 but when any movement of the hive is made1 it is essential to have the frames firmly fixed by the aid of this contrivance4 ,it is also advisable to have the frames perpendicularly supported until the combs are built1 so in order that the frames should hang true1 the hive ought to be on the level4 ,a little inclination may be given to it from back to front1 causing the hive slightly to fall towards the entrance1 so as to allow the moisture inside the hive1 caused by the exhalations of the bees1 to run off4 ,illustration ,compound ,bar ,frame4--,in the ,journal of ,horticulture1 ,mr4 ,woodbury thus describes the compound bar frame4 ,being his own adaptation1 we cannot do better than use his own words4 ,this is a contrivance of my own1 which ,i have found very advantageous in enabling me to use frames in stock hives and bars in supers1 without forfeiting the advantages arising from the unlimited interchangeability of every comb in every hive and super in the apiary4 ,its construction will be readily understood by an inspection of the annexed sketch1 in which the comb bar is shown slightly raised from its frame4 ,the bar itself is #ac inches long by of an inch wide and of an inch thick4 ,when the comb bar is in its place1 the whole forms a frame #ac inches long by #g inches high 7inside measure71 with of an inch projection at each end1 which rests in its appropriate notch in either the back or front of the hive4 ,when filled with comb1 the bar becomes so firmly cemented to the frame as to admit of its being handled with facility4 ,this contrivance is1 no doubt1 very excellent in the hands of ,mr4 ,woodbury2 but in the hands of the unpractised severe mishaps may arise4 ,in warm weather the propolis and wax1 with which the bees cement the bar to the frame1 becomes soft1 consequently in handling the frames1 unless dexterity is used1 the comb is likely to drop out4 ,we1 therefore1 recommend that the bar and frame be made both in one3 greater firmness and simplicity are thereby gained4 ,some of these compound bars and frames are kept in stock at our establishment1 though they cannot be recommended for general use2 but should any one prefer them1 they can be supplied at the same price as the common frames4 ,illustration ,in describing the stock hives of wood1 straw1 and glass1 allusion has frequently been made to the depriving hives1 technically called supers4 ,these are also made of glass in wood frames1 #ac inches inside1 #f inches deep1 with eight bars 7without frames74 ,the accompanying cut represents the super used with the bar and frame hive4 ,honey-combs in supers are better when made thicker than those for breeding1 consequently the bars are placed a little further apart than in the lower or stock hive2 they are either the ,woodbury ,ribbed1 contrived to induce the straight building of combs1 or flat bars with guide combs affixed4 ,cover4--,a loose outer case1 forming a complete cover for the hive1 is found very useful4 ,the case is made in two parts for convenience1 the roof is also separate1 having an acorn at top which forms a neat finish4 ,these outside cases are made of wood1 and drop lightly over all2 when thus protected and fixed on a pedestal1 the hive may be placed in the open air in such position as fancy may dictate4 ,the aspect should be south or south-east1 and if against a wall1 sufficient space must be allowed for a free passage behind1 as it is from thence all operations must be conducted by the apiarian4 ,the case and roof with the stand being the only parts exposed to weather1 will be the only portions that require painting2 they are sometimes stained and varnished1 and we are inclined to prefer the latter for appearance4 ,should the apiarian have a complete bee-hive house1 the cover and stands will not be needed4 ,illustration ,when removing or replacing the covers1 care should be taken to do so very gently1 or the bees will be enraged and rush out1 and may inflict stings upon those within their reach4 ,the necessity for lifting off the cover for the purpose of looking in1 either at the window of the stock hive or of the super1 we have obviated by making a door both in the upper and lower parts of the outside case4 ,these doors1 or unglazed windows1 are hinged at the bottom so as to open downwards1 rendering inspection easy without disturbance to the bees4 ,a wooden range for supporting a number of hives makes a safe and economical stand2 it may be formed by driving firmly into the ground two rows of posts1 each row about #ac inches apart2 to these two rails about #b inches square are nailed1 and upon these the hives firmly rest4 ,care should be taken not to have the hives nearer together than #ah inches2 the intermediate space will be found very convenient on which to rest the cover1 or for supporting an empty hive during the proper performance of any operation4 ,mr4 ,woodbury has his hives arranged on rails1 somewhat after the plan before described4 ,in describing as above the various hives and frames1 some hints have been given as to the methods of handling them4 ,this1 however1 will not suffice for an induction to the mysteries of practical bee-keeping2 and we must refer the reader to a subsequent section1 wherein the details as to manipulation will be fully explained1 and the results of the experience of several distinguished apiarians will be embodied4 ,,taylor',s ,,improved ,,cottage ,,hive4 ,no4 #ad4 ,illustration ,no4 #ad hive is similar in principle to ,no4 #h4 ,it is also similar in size1 with the exception of being quite straight at the sides4 ,a zinc rim affords protection from the weather4 ,under the upper straw hive a bell glass is worked4 ,a mahogany adapting board1 with a #d inch hole in the centre corresponding with that of the hive1 supplies an even surface for the glass to rest on1 and facilitates its removal when full4 ,for particulars for stocking and management see directions for ,no4 #h and ,no4 #e hives4 ,,eight-,,bar ,,straw ,,hive4 ,no4 #ah4 ,illustration ,this is an ingenious contrivance of ,mr4 ,taylor's4 ,hoops are worked in the straw1 both at top and bottom of the stock hive1 and in the upper hoop are openings cut to receive eight comb bars2 each bar is #a of an inch wide1 with a space of h an inch between4 ,since the introduction of square straw bar and frame hives1 these have not been much in request4 ,considerable inconvenience is found with this hive1 because the bars being of unequal lengths they cannot be interchanged one with the other4 ,the description given of ,no4 #c hive1 and mode of stocking and furnishing it with guide comb1 apply to this hive4 ,the large straw hive raised up in the engraving is an outside case2 the roof is a large zinc cover4 ,if placed in a bee-house1 the outside case and zinc roof are not required4 ,,neighbour',s ,,unicomb ,,observatory ,,hive4 ,no4 #bj4 ,illustration ,this hive is well adapted for those persons who are desirous of having the opportunity of closely examining the workmanship of these industrious and interesting insects4 ,it is particularly intended for a window recess or an indoor apiary2 and will also be found an interesting addition to the green house4 ,an aperture should be cut in the sash corresponding with the entrance to the hive1 through which the bees may find egress and ingress1 without being able to gain access to the apartment1 as on the plan in the case of the ,ladies' ,observatory ,hive4 ,the ,unicomb ,hive is constructed of so narrow a width between this plates of glass that it admits of one comb only to be built1 and at the same time leaves space between the comb and the glass on either side for the bees to pass and repass4 ,it is thus made so that every bee may be exposed to view4 ,the queen forming the most prominent feature of attention1 she is readily distinguished by the greater length of her body1 as well as by the attention paid to her by the other bees4 ,the mode of stocking this hive is as follows3--procure a strong swarm if practicable1 and let it be first hived into a common straw hive in the usual way4 ,take care to make the necessary preparations previous to the operation of stocking2 for this purpose first unscrew the top and take out the bar intended for the foundation of the comb4 ,a sort of wooden trough1 contrived to act as a funnel1 is provided with this hive4 ,it is in separate pieces1 so as to be packed conveniently1 and requires screwing together4 ,the funnel must now be attached to the hive1 and care be taken that it is quite firmly fixed--the metal plates are attached for this purpose4 ,having made these preparations at dusk1 dash the bees out on to a cloth or sheet spread on the ground1 place four pieces of wood so as to raise the hive a little from the cloth2 then invert the hive so as to have the funnel downwards1 placing it over the bees1 and letting it rest on the four pieces of wood just named4 ,in a short time 7say half an hour or an hour7 the bees will ascend into the hive2 they will go up more quickly if occasionally stirred with the feather of a goose quill4 ,when the bees have ascended into the hive1 take off the funnel1 replace the bar1 screw on the top board1 take it to the place intended for it permanently to occupy1 and which has been prepared for it4 ,it will be as well to screen the hive from view for a few days until the bees become settled in their new domicile4 ,although this hive is constructed of double glass to keep up a more uniform degree of warmth1 still from the cold nature of glass and the close contact into which the bees are brought with it1 it is advisable to place flannel between the outer shutters and the glass of the hive on both sides2 this is found essential in winter1 and very much adds to the comfort of the bees if placed so every cold night during most of the year4 ,in the day time in summer months with the hive being of double glass the whole may be fully exposed to view4 ,if the temperature of the apartment in which the hive stands be kept at #fj degrees1 this extra attention will not be so needful4 ,bees cease to appear disturbed when the exposure to light is continuous4 ,as soon as the bees are settled1 comb building will immediately commence1 and in about two weeks' time there will be one comb spreading over the whole hive4 ,the queen may be viewed depositing her eggs1 and all the usual operations of the rearing of brood1 storing of honey1 and the building of combs1 will be open to full inspection1 with perfect ease to the spectator4 ,as an object of lively and permanent interest for the breakfast parlour or conservatory1 the ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive may be regarded as infinitely superior to an ,aquarium or ,fernery4 ,at the ,exposition ,universelle of #ahee in ,paris1 we exhibited a hive of this description in full working order4 ,the bees left ,london on the #eth of ,july of that year1 and were placed in the ,exposition on the following morning4 ,an entrance was made for them through the side of the building1 as before explained4 ,our bees had no national antipathies1 and they immediately sallied forth to their fresh fields and pastures new in the ,champs ,elyses1 the gardens of the ,tuileries1 the ,luxembourg1 c41 whence they soon returned laden with luscious store from ,french flowers4 ,the ,jurors of the ,exposition awarded us a ,prize ,medal for bee-hives4 ,,woodbury ,,unicomb ,,hive4 ,illustration ,the ,woodbury ,unicomb ,hive has many advantages over hives of this kind as previously constructed4 ,the engraving shows the interior compartment divided into six2 these are six ,woodbury frames4 ,the inner sash opens to admit of hanging up the frames on the notches prepared for them4 ,the width of the hive between the glasses of the sashes is just sufficient to admit of one thickness of comb with space on either side for the bees to pass and repass1 the same as in ,neighbour's ,unicomb4 ,there is1 however1 a great advantage in the use of this hive2 with it1 any one possessing a ,woodbury box or straw bar and frame hive can readily commence a ,unicomb1 and as readily put the combs and bees back into the square hive again4 ,the outside shutters on either side are composed of ,venetian blinds admitting daylight1 but obscuring the rays of the sun4 ,we had the entrance made at one end1 as represented in our drawing2 this alteration was made after the pattern of the hive from which ,mr4 ,woodbury allowed us to copy4 ,his own was intended to stand wholly out of doors1 and had two central entrances1 one on either side at the bottom1 the hive itself turning on a pivot4 ,when the hive was being examined on one side1 the entrance was closed by a piece of wood inserted in it1 and when the other side was brought round to be inspected1 the piece of wood withdrawn and placed in the opposite entrance4 ,this was a most ingenious contrivance2 but it did not answer our purpose for indoors4 ,when ,mr4 ,woodbury sent us his hive1 we were preparing for the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb1 and in placing it against the sides of the building1 we followed our old plan for ingress by having the entrance at the end4 ,since that time we have made a considerable improvement by adapting ,mr4 ,woodbury's cleverly contrived turn-table to suit our own hive4 ,like ,mr4 ,woodbury's hive1 ours has two iron wheels1 the one fixed to the bottom of the hive1 the other fixed to a stout board running the full length of the hive2 on these two wheels the whole hive turns4 ,in the centre there is an opening into the hive1 with a passage-way running underneath1 so that the bees' entrance is in no way affected by the position of the hive1 which revolves to suit the convenience of visitors inspecting it4 ,should the queen with her attendants not be visible on one side1 the other side of the comb can be brought into full view1 and examined with the same facility as a picture1 or as articles are inspected in a shop window4 ,thus1 in the ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive1 the sovereign mother1 her train of servitors1 the drones with their aimless movements1 and the crowd of ever busy workers--either building their combs or storing honey--may be always seen as presenting a veritable ,tableau vivant4 ,another improvement that we have made upon ,mr4 ,woodbury's pattern is that of accommodating the frames2 his was constructed before frame hives were in use1 consequently it is only suitable for combs on bars4 ,our adaptation has necessitated an increase in size4 ,the dimensions are nearly #c feet square and #g inches deep from back to front4 ,provision is made at top for feeding and for working two small flat top glasses for deprivation1 which are protected by the weather board4 ,an alighting board is placed at the centre1 close under the entrance1 when the hive is located out of doors4 ,when the hive is placed indoors1 a passage-way about #ah inches long1 covered with glass1 is fixed to the entrance1 the other end communicating with an opening in the wall or sash2 through this the bees find access1 an alighting board being fixed outside the building4 ,it is requisite that the passage-way be about this length1 in order to allow of the hive turning round clear of the side of the building4 ,in the summer of #ahfc we had ample proof of the success of this hive during its exhibition at the annual show of the ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,society at ,exeter4 ,we selected six combs1 and packed them in one of the square box ,woodbury bar and frame hives1 and on arrival at ,exeter1 ,mr4 ,woodbury assisted us in taking out the frames and placing them in the ,unicomb4 ,that being fixed against the boarded side of a shed1 we found the covered way a great convenience1 and it answered remarkably well2 the bees did not seem to be inconvenienced by having to travel through so long a passage4 ,a glass covering admitted a full view of the little labourers as they crowded in1 and the sight of them very much enhanced the interest of visitors examining the hive4#d ,footnote #d3 ,it may require explanation how it was that we took bees to ,exeter1 which sounds something like carrying coals to ,newcastle4 ,the reason was this--the garden of our friend1 ,mr4 ,woodbury1 at ,mount ,radford1 from which we could have been supplied1 was so near to the show yard that he was apprehensive a large number of the bees would return to their old hives4 ,our bees from a distance would1 according to their nature1 return to their own hive1 for bees although they may be moved miles away1 take care to mark their new position1 and are careful to return to it4 ,mr4 ,woodbury lent us a small stock of his ,ligurian bees1 and between it and our own hive the crowd of visitors divided their attention4 ,since the time before mentioned1 we have exhibited bees at the meetings of the ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,society at ,bristol1 and of the ,royal ,agricultural ,society at ,newcastle in #ahfd4 ,on both occasions further proof was given that this hive admirably answers the purpose intended1 and it afforded pleasure and interest to many thousands of visitors4 ,mode of ,stocking4--,the ,unicomb hive may be stocked in two ways1 which have been previously referred to4 ,the bee-keeper may either select the comb upon which the queen is found and put it into the hive1 and so form an artificial swarm2 or he may take six brood-combs from a hive1 and so stock the ,unicomb at once1 which we did for the show at ,exeter4 ,the former plan is1 perhaps1 the most advisable1 because new comb has to be built within the five frames2 for1 be it remembered1 in this case five empty frames must be put in4 ,it is a better plan still if artificial combs are placed in each frame so as to afford an interesting opportunity of watching the formation of the cells therein4 ,the combs are sure to be dark in colour when taken from a stock hive2 and new combs being whiter have a better appearance in the hive4 ,the comb upon which the queen was introduced may be taken away after the artificial swarm has made combs within some of the other five frames2 when the queen is on one of the new combs1 opportunity may easily be taken for opening the hive and removing the old dark comb4 ,the bees can easily be shaken or brushed off the comb1 and will return to the hive4 ,the comb with the unhatched brood may be deposited in any square hive that needs strengthening4 ,we mention this to show how to obtain a hive with entirely fine white comb4 ,if the possessor of a square ,woodbury frame-hive wishes to start a strong ,unicomb hive1 and does not object to appropriate the stock1 he must take out of the ,woodbury hive any six combs on the frames1 and put the ,unicomb in its place so as to receive all the returning bees that happen to be abroad2 the remaining four combs1 supposing there are ten1 may be inserted in any other frame hives in the garden in which are vacancies for them4 ,we have had this hive in operation1 in the manner last described1 during the summer of #ahfc1 and found it to answer remarkably well4 ,on a lawn1 placed on a suitable ornamental stand1 it formed a pleasing object1 besides affording great interest and instruction4 ,in ,unicomb hives stocked with a natural swarm 7as is generally the plan71 there is considerable difficulty in keeping the bees alive through the winter4 ,in a hive where the combs are removeable1 no loss of bees need be occasioned4 ,we do not recommend the hive we are now describing as a winter residence for bees4 ,for four months in the year1 when bees are most active and when their operations are most interesting1 this hive may be brought into use1 either of the two plans before described being adopted4 ,an artificial swarm should be put in during ,may or ,june1 and taken out1 in the method before mentioned1 and then placed in the square box during the month of ,september2 sometimes it may do for a stock to be put in a month or so earlier1 but should never be retained later in this hive4 ,in ,october we often have cold nights2 the bees and brood being in such close contact with the glass1 and not able to cluster as is their natural wont1 suffer from exposure to the variations of temperature4 ,in some degree to moderate this4 ,me have used treble glass with a space between each square2 greater warmth is thus attained1 and the view is not intercepted4 ,opportunity should be taken for cleaning the ,unicomb hive when empty1 so as to be ready for re-stocking as a new hive in the following summer4 ,the ,unicomb ,observatory hive is one which might have been suggested by the lines of ,evans3-- ,by this blest art our ravished eyes behold ,the singing masons build their roofs of gold4 ,and mingling multitudes perplex the view1 ,yet all in order apt their tasks pursue2 ,still happier they whose favoured ken hath seen ,pace slow and silent round1 the state's fair queen4 ,,huber',s ,,hive4 ,no4 #ai4 ,to ,francis ,huber--not improperly styled the ,prince of ,apiarians1--we are indebted for more extensive and accurate observations on the habits of the ,bee than has been contributed by all other observers since the time of ,aristotle4 ,during the early period of ,huber's investigations1 he prosecuted them by means of single comb hives which allow of each side of the comb being examined4 ,he found1 however1 that these had one important defect4 ,the bees could not in these hives cluster together1 which is their natural method of withstanding the effects of a reduced temperature4 ,huber hit upon the ingenious expedient of combining a number of single comb frames so as to form one complete hive1 which could be opened in order to expose any particular comb1 without disturbing the rest4 ,from the manner of the opening and closing of this hive1 it has generally been called the ,leaf or ,book ,hive4 ,the division separating each comb is joined both back and front with butt hinges1 fastened with a moveable pin1 on withdrawing which1 at either side1 each comb and the bees on it may be inspected as easily as if in a single comb hive4 ,huber's ,leaf ,hive is thus in appearance as if several of those ,history of ,england back-gammon chess boards were set up on end together4 ,the floorboard on which the hive stands is larger than the hive when closed1 so as to allow of its being opened freely at any particular volume4 ,an entrance way for the bees is hollowed out of the floorboard as in other hives4 ,there is a glass window in each end of the hive1 which is provided with a shutter4 ,there is1 however1 one serious objection to ,huber's hive1 which1 though not noticed by him or his careful assistant1 has prevented its general use4 ,that is1 the difficulty there is in closing it without crushing some of the bees1 a catastrophe which1 by exasperating their comrades1 is certain to interfere with any experiments4 ,there is no such risk in the ,bar and ,frame ,hive1 whilst in it every facility possessed by ,huber's is retained2 so that we strongly recommend scientific apiarians1 in preference to ,huber's1 that they should use some kind of ,bar and ,frame ,hive4 ,we have here introduced a description of ,huber's ,leaf ,hive 7and should be glad to exhibit one7 for the sake of its historic interest in connection with apiarian science4 ,the invention was invaluable for ,huber himself1 and it suggested to other apiarians the adoption of the present plan of vertical bars and frames4 ,the character of ,huber1 and the circumstances under which he pursued his observations1 are so remarkable1 that we need scarcely apologize for stating a few particulars respecting him here4 ,he was born at ,geneva in ,july1 #agej1 his family being in honourable station and noted for talent4 ,just as he attained to manhood he lost his sight1 and remained blind to the end of his days4 ,this apparently insuperable obstacle in the way of scientific observation1 was overcome by the remarkable fidelity with which ,burnens1 his assistant1 watched the bees1 and reported their movements to ,huber1 ,madame ,huber also who1 although betrothed to him before his calamity1 had remained constant in her affection1 assisted in the investigations with great assiduity during their long and happy wedded life4 ,we quote the following from ,memoirs of ,huber1 by ,professor de ,candolle3-- ,we have seen the blind shine as poets1 and distinguish themselves as philosophers1 musicians1 and calculators2 but it was reserved for ,huber to give a lustre to his class in the sciences of observation1 and on objects so minute that the most clear-sighted observer can scarcely perceive them4 ,the reading of the works of ,reaumur and ,bonnet1 and the conversation of the latter1 directed his curiosity to the history of bees4 ,his habitual residence in the country inspired him with the desire1 first of verifying some facts1 then of filling some blanks in their history2 but this kind of observation required not only the use of such an instrument as the optician must furnish1 but an intelligent assistant1 who alone could adjust it to its use4 ,he had then a servant named ,francis ,burnens1 remarkable for his sagacity and for the devotion he bore for his master4 ,huber practiced him in the art of observation1 directed him to his researches by questions adroitly combined1 and aided by the recollections of his youth1 and by the testimonies of his wife and friends1 he rectified the assertions of his assistant1 and became enabled to form in his own mind a true and perfect image of the manifest facts4 ',i am much more certain1' said he1 smiling1 to a scientific friend1 'of what ,i state than you are1 for you publish what your own eyes only have seen1 while ,i take the mean among many witnesses4' ,this is1 doubtless1 very plausible reasoning1 but very few persons will by it be rendered distrustful of their own eyesight4 ,the results of ,huber's observations were published in #agib1 in the form of letters to ,ch4 ,bonnet1 under the title of ,nouvelles ,observation sur les ,abeilles4 ,this work made a strong impression upon many naturalists1 not only because of the novelty of the facts stated1 and the excellent inductive reasoning employed1 but also on account of the rigorous accuracy of the observations recorded1 when it was considered with what an extraordinary difficulty the author had to struggle4 ,huber retained the clear faculties of his observant mind until his death1 which took place on the #bbnd of ,december1 #ahca4 ,most of the facts relating to the impregnation of the queen1 the formation of cells1 and the whole economy of the bee-community as discovered and described by ,huber1 have received full confirmation from the investigations of succeeding naturalists4 ,illustration ,,iii4 ,,exterior ,,arrangements ,,and ,,apparatus4 ,,bee-,,house ,,to ,,contain ,,two ,,hives4 ,no4 #ci4 ,illustration3 ,front ,view of ,bee-,house4 ,there is no contrivance for protecting hives from the weather so complete as a bee-house one1 which also admits of an easy inspection of the hives ranged therein4 ,this arrangement is especially convenient for lady bee-keepers4 ,the folding doors behind the bee-house have only to be opened1 and the hives are at once exposed to full view4 ,if the cover of the bee-hive be lifted as well as the shutters opened1 the hives and the glasses may be deliberately inspected1 without any danger of molestation from the bees4 ,thus the progress made by the busy multitude in building and filling their combs may be watched by the bee-keeper1 from day to day with great and increasing interest4 ,illustration3 ,back ,view of the ,interior4 ,here our engraving shows the back view of the bee-house1 the interior being furnished with two of our ',no4 #e cottage hives4 ,two suspended weights will be noticed2 these are to balance the top hives which cover the glasses2 the cord for each1 runs on pulleys1 so that the covers can be easily raised and as easily shut down again when the inspection is finished4 ,we may here remark1 that it is not well to keep the glasses long exposed to full light and view4 ,the front of the bee-house being closely boarded1 a passage way is contrived for the bees by which they have egress and ingress1 without being able to gain access to the house4 ,the hives must be kept close to the front boarding of the house1 so as to prevent the opening of any crevices which the bees might mistake for the entrance to their hives1 and so find their way into the house4 ,the front view of this bee-house shows the ordinary contrivance for entrance2 the sliding zinc entrances may also be advantageously fixed as shown in the engraving of a ,bee-house to contain twelve hives4 ,in many parts of the country1 hives and honey are sometimes stolen from the garden2 the bee-houses we furnish have a lock and key to prevent depredations of this kind4 ,care must be taken to keep the bee-houses free from spiders and other insects4 ,in some districts ants are numerous and troublesome4 ,the plan we recommend for excluding them is to put some pitch round the four supports of the bee-house2 or1 better still1 strips of loose flannel or other woollen material that is absorbent1 which have previously been soaked in lamp-oil4 ,we use sperm oil1 being the slowest drying oil we know of4 ,a piece of string will keep the flannel close to the wood1 and then neither ant or any other insect will pass up2 so that by this simple means the hives may1 so to speak1 be insulated and placed beyond their reach4 ,as the oil dries up it can easily be renewed4 ,we have found this an effectual remedy against these insidious enemies of bees4 ,illustration ,,bee-,,house ,,to ,,contain ,,twelve ,,hives4 ,no4 #dj4 ,illustration3 ,back ,view of the above1 showing the ,interior4 ,where economy of room is a consideration1 we fit up bee-houses with a double row of hives1 one above the other4 ,our engravings show the back and front of a house of this kind1 having an ornamental zinc gutter to prevent the wet from dripping on to the alighting board4 ,when a number of hives are thus together1 we colour the alighting boards differently1 so that bees may have a distinctive mark by which each may know its own home1 and not wander into its neighbour's house4 ,bees readily enough receive a honey laden labourer into a hive2 but if the wanderer be poor and empty1 he will be promptly repulsed1 and may have to forfeit his life for his mistake4 ,queens returning from their wedding trip1 are liable to mistake their hive if all the entrances are so much alike that a noticeable difference is not easily apparent4 ,a queen entering a hive already supplied with a fruitful sovereign would be certain to be killed4 ,the loss to the hive to which the queen belonged is a most serious one4 ,hives are often made queenless from this cause1 and thereby reduced to utter ruin2 the bee-master perhaps attributing his loss to something altogether different4 ,,bee-,,house ,,to ,,contain ,,nine ,,hives4 ,no4 #da4 ,illustration ,this engraving represents a bee-house adapted for having a number of hives in a limited space4 ,three rows of hives1 one above the other4 ,we do not recommend a bee-house of this construction2 it is difficult to erect one to afford space for super hives1 without it being so inconveniently high as to be liable to be blown over by strong winds4 ,hives thus located in a bee-house are not exposed to so much change of temperature and the stocks generally pass the winter well4 ,here we may introduce the meditations of a ,german apiarian1 as he describes the advantages of a bee-house for the bees1 and his own pleasure in watching over his pets in the winter1 as they dwell so comfortably and safely4 ,it is true that ,heer ,braun associates still choicer delights with the simple pleasures of bee-keeping1 but as ,mr4 ,woodbury has not excluded the higher theme from his translation1 we need not hesitate to quote the whole3-- ,,evening ,,thoughts ,,in ,,january4 7,translated from the ,german of ,adalbert ,braun47 ,by ,a ,devonshire ,bee-keeper4 ,within my little garden ,stands also a bee-house1 ,and bees therein protected ,from sly tomtit or mouse4 ,how quietly they're sitting6 ,and little trouble give1 ,beyond the needful watching1 ,how undisturb'd they live2 ,that all1 indeed1 are living ,in strong unbroken health1 ,and1 in the brood-nest hanging1 ,consume their hoarded wealth-- ,that in the dwindling store-room ,sufficient stores remain1 ,until the rape-plant donneth ,its blossom dress again4 ,thus daily do ,i visit ,my garden and my bees1 ,neglecting thereby often ,my dinner and my ease4 ,thank ,god6 they all were humming ,within their hives to-day2 ,nor could ,i find a symptom ,of hunger or decay4 ,and yet what ardent longing ,i feel1 ,o ,spring1 for thee6 ,my darlings' gleesome frolics ,are happiness to me6 ,how would this anxious longing ,consume my very breast1 ,but for a little being ,so full of love and jest4 ,in heat or cold who prattles ,around me ev'ry day1 ,and stills the throes of longing ,by commune blithe and gay4 ,ye bee-keepers can value ,a joy that is complete2 ,it is my wife--the darling-- ,whose lips are honey-sweet4 ,with e'en the richest bee-stand ,were joy and pleasure gone1 ,if my heart's queen were wanting ,and ,i left here alone4 ,thus her ,i love and honour4 ,no difference have we1 ,but oft-times go together1 ,our little pets to see4 ,her kisses sweet removing ,all sorrow from my breast1 ,and honied joys surrounding ,proclaim us highly blest4 ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 ,mount ,radford1 ,exeter4 ,illustration ,illustration3 ,exterior of an ,apiary4 ,as originally erected in the ,zoological ,gardens1 ,regents ,park4 ,illustration3 ,interior of the above4 ,may be taken as suggestive for the construction or appropriation of rooms for larger ,apiaries in summer houses or other outbuildings4 ,,zinc ,,cover4 ,no4 #cg4 ,illustration ,this is a simple and inexpensive covering for a ,no4 #e1 or other cottage straw hive when exposed in the garden4 ,it fits close on to the upper hive1 coming sufficiently low to protect from the sun and rain1 without obscuring the whole hive4 ,these covers are painted green1 that colour being generally preferred4 ,,ornamental ,,zinc ,,cover4 ,no4 #ch4 ,illustration ,the annexed engraving of the ,ornamental ,zinc ,cover renders but little description necessary4 ,the illustration shows one of our ,no4 #e improved cottage hives on a stand4 ,three clumps of wood must be driven into the ground1 and the three iron rods supporting the covering made fast to them with screws4 ,there are screw holes in the feet of the iron rods for the purpose2 when thus secured1 but little fear need be entertained of its being blown over by high winds4 ,in the roof two pulleys are fixed1 so that by attaching a cord1 the upper hive covering the bell glass supers may be raised with facility for the purpose of observing the progress made by the bees4 ,the ,ornamental ,zinc ,cover will form a pleasing object in the flower garden when placed in a suitable position on the grass plot4 ,it is painted green2 the iron rods are of such a length as to support the roof at a convenient height from the ground4 ,,cover ,,of ,,zinc4 ,no4 #bi4 ,illustration ,this zinc cover introduced by ,h4 ,taylor1 ,esq41 for his cottage hive 7,no4 #ad7 will also be found useful as a protection from wet for many other descriptions of round straw hives4 ,,bell ,,glasses4 ,illustration3 #be4 ,illustration3 #bf4 ,illustration3 #bg4 #be4 ,to contain #aj lbs41 #aj inches high1 #g inches wide4 #bf4 ,to contain #f lbs41 #g inches high1 #e inches wide4 #bg4 ,to contain #c lbs41 #e inches high1 #d inches wide4 ,these bell glasses are used in the hives before described4 ,no4 #be is for ,nutt's ,hive 7,no4 #a72 ,no4 #bf is for our ,improved ,cottage ,hive 7,no4 #e72 ,no4 #bg is a very small glass1 one that is not often used1 and which we do not recommend4 ,bees will generally fill a middle sized glass quite as soon as one so small as this4 ,,bell ,,glasses4 ,no4 #bd4 ,illustration ,these glasses have been introduced by ,mr4 ,taylor1 and are recommended as preferable to deep narrow glasses4 ,the drawings will show that they are straight at the sides1 flat at the top inside1 with a knob outside to take hold by1 through which is an inch opening to admit a ventilating tube4 ,the larger is #f inches deep1 #ab inches wide2 smaller #e inches deep1 #i inches wide4 ,illustration ,the late ,mr4 ,j4 ,h4 ,payne1 of ,bury1 author of the ,bee-keeper's ,guide1 introduced another glass4 ,it has a #c inch hole in the centre1 the purpose of which is to tempt bees to produce additional and larger stores of honey4 ,it is to be used as follows3--when a bell glass is half or quite filled1 raise it1 and place the ,payne's glass over the hole of the stock hive1 with the filled glass on it over the #c inch hole4 ,the bees will bring their combs through1 and thus ,mr4 ,payne found that they would store more honey than if the bell glass were removed and another empty one put in its place4 ,of course the first glass must be smaller in diameter than the ,payne's glass1 so as to rest upon it4 ,,bell ,,glass4 ,no4 #bh4 ,illustration ,this is a glass super to be placed on the hive in a similar way to the bell glasses already alluded to4 ,it has the advantages of being straight at the sides1 flat at top1 and without a knob2 so that when filled it may be brought on to the breakfast table1 inverted1 on a plate4 ,the glass lid shown in the engraving forms a cover1 and fits over outside1 so as not to interfere with the combs within4 ,these flat top glasses1 like those with a knob1 have a hole through which a zinc ventilating tube is inserted4 ,,guide ,,comb ,,for ,,glasses4 ,in some of our previous allusions to the best mode of inducing bees to commence working in glasses1 we have recommended attaching guide comb4 ,we will now more particularly explain how this attraction can be best applied4 ,we have already shown how bees may be induced to make use of guide combs fixed to bars1 and the same principle is applicable to glasses4 ,these may be filled with great regularity by adopting the following directions1 which we believe have never before appeared in print3-- ,procure a piece of clean new empty worker honey-comb which has not had honey in it 7because honey will prevent adhesion to the glass72 cut it up into pieces of about three quarters of an inch square4 ,gently warm the exterior of the glass2 this we find is best done by holding the glass horizontally for a short time over the flame of a candle2 then apply one of the pieces of empty comb inside at the part warmed1 taking care in fixing it that the pitch or inclination of the cells is upwards--in fact1 place the guide comb in the same relative position that it occupied in the hive or glass from which it was taken4 ,there is some danger of making the glass too warm1 which will cause the comb to melt1 and the wax to run down the side1 leaving an unsightly appearance on the glass2 this should be carefully avoided1 and a little experience will soon enable the operator to determine the degree of warmth sufficient to make the comb adhere without any of it being melted4 ,it is hardly necessary to state that only the very whitest combs ought to be used4 ,a short time should be allowed before changing the position of the glass1 so that it may cool sufficiently to hold the comb in its place4 ,six or eight pieces may thus be fixed1 so that when the glass is filled1 it will present a star shape1 all the combs radiating from the centre4 ,the annexed engraving shows the appearance of a glass as worked by the bees1 in which guide combs were fixed in the manner described above4 ,the drawing was taken from a glass of our own filled after being thus furnished4 ,illustration ,in the ,old ,museum at the ,royal ,gardens1 ,kew1 may be seen a ,taylor's glass presented by us1 some of the combs in which are elongated on the outside to the breadth of six inches4 ,we believe that not only does a glass present a much handsomer appearance when thus worked--and will1 on that account1 most fully reward the trouble of fixing guide comb--but that more honey is stored in the same space and in less time than if the glass be placed on the hive merely in a naked condition for the bees to follow their own devices4 ,this mode of fixing guide comb does not solely apply to this shaped glass1 but is equally useful for all kinds of glasses4 ,it is introduced in connection with ,no4 #bh1 because that glass having a flat top and no knob1 the regularity is more clearly apparent4 ,the working of bees in the bell glasses illustrates how tractable their disposition really is if only scope be allowed for the due exercise of their natural instinct4 ,they have no secrets in their economy1 and they do not shrink from our constant observation as they daily pursue their simple policy of continuous thrift and persevering accumulation4 ,yet it is only owing to the labours of successive inventors that we are now enabled to watch the very pulse of the machine of the bee-commonwealth3-- ,long from the eye of man and face of day1 ,involved in darkness all their customs lay1 ,until a sage well versed in ,nature's lore1 ,a genius formed all science to explore2 ,hives well contrived1 in crystal frames disposed4 ,and there the busy citizens disclosed4--,murphy's ,vaniere4 ,,the ,,new ,,bottle ,,feeder4 ,no4 #dd4 ,illustration ,it has long been acknowledged that the best mode of feeding bees is through an opening at the top of the stock hive4 ,the new bottle feeder is a simple and good means of administering food when a stock requires help in that way4 ,any kind of hive that has an opening at the top may thus be fed2 bees can take the food from it without leaving the hive4 ,another important feature is the cleanliness with which liberal feeding can be accomplished2 and few operations require more care than does feeding4 ,if liquid sweet is left hanging about the hive1 it tempts robber bees1 and when once the bees of an apiary have had a taste1 there is no knowing where their depredations will stop2 they resolutely attack and endeavour to rob other hives1 fighting and killing one another to a considerable extent4 ,even if no hives be completely destroyed1 weakness from loss of numbers will be the portion of most1 if not all1 the hives in the garden4 ,the morals of our favorites are here a good deal at fault1 for the strongest hives1 when their inordinate passion is thus stirred up by the carelessness or want of knowledge of the bee-keeper1 attack and prey upon the weak4 ,to be forewarned is to be forearmed--and prevention is better than cure4 ,we strongly recommend closely covering up the feeder2 one of the middle size bell glasses put over it makes a close fitting cover1 should the regular cover to the hive not be sufficiently tight3 when bees are not kept in a bee-house--and are on that account more accessible--this extra care is more particularly needed4 ,the right time for feeding is in the autumn or spring4 ,a stock of bees at ,michaelmas ought to weigh #bj lbs4 exclusive of the hive1 and if then it weigh less1 the deficiency should be made up by artificial food4 ,it is not wise to defer doing this until later in the season1 because it is important that when the food is placed in the cells1 the bees should seal it up1 and a tolerably warm temperature is required to enable them to secrete the wax for the delicately formed lids of the cells4 ,if the food remain unsealed1 there is danger of its turning sour and thereby causing disease among the bees4 ,it is not well to feed in mid-winter or when the weather is very cold4 ,bees at such times consume but little food1 being in a state of torpor1 from which it is better not to arouse them4 ,a little food in the spring stimulates the queen to lay more abundantly1 for bees are provident1 and do not rear the young so rapidly when the supplies are short4 ,in this particular the intelligence of bees is very striking2 they have needed no ,malthus to teach them that the means of subsistence must regulate the increase of a prosperous population3 ,the prescient female rears the tender brood ,in strict proportion to the hoarded food4--,evans4 ,judgment has1 however1 to be exercised by the apiarian in giving food1 for it is quite possible to do mischief by over feeding4 ,the bees when over-fed will fill so many of the combs with honey that the queen in the early spring cannot find empty cells in which to deposit her eggs1 and by this means the progress of the hive is much retarded1 a result that should be guarded against4 ,the following directions will show how the bottle feeder is to be used3--,fill the bottle with liquid food1 place the net fixed on with an ,india-rubber band over the mouth1 place the block over the hole of the stock hive1 invert the bottle1 the neck resting within the hole in the block2 the bees will put their proboscises through the perforations and imbibe the food1 thus causing the bottle to act on the principle of a fountain4 ,the bottle being glass1 it is easy to see when the food is consumed4 ,the piece of perforated zinc is for the purpose of preventing the bees from clinging to the net1 or escaping from the hive when the bottle is taken away for the purpose of refilling4 ,a very good syrup for bees may be made by boiling #f lbs4 of honey with #b lbs4 of water for a few minutes2 or loaf sugar1 in the proportion of #c lbs4 to #b lbs4 of water1 answers very well when honey is not to be obtained4 ,,round ,,bee ,,feeder4 ,no4 #aj4 ,illustration ,round bee-feeders are made of zinc and earthenware2 #h inches across1 #c inches deep4 ,the projection outside is a receptacle for pouring in the food2 the bees gain access to the feeder through a round hole1 which is placed either at the centre or nearer one side1 whichever may best suit the openings on the top of the stock hive4 ,the feeder occupies a similar position to that of the glasses or cap hives in the gathering season4 ,a circular piece of glass1 cut so as to fit into a groove1 prevents the bees escaping and retains the warmth within the hive1 whilst it affords opportunity for inspecting the bees whilst feeding4 ,the feeders were originally only made of zinc2 but some bee-keepers advised the use of earthenware1 and a few have been made to meet the wishes of those who give the preference to that material4 ,when the bees are fed from above in this manner1 the feeder is kept at a warm temperature by the heat of the hive4 ,in common hives cottagers feed the bees by pushing under the hive thin slips of wood scooped out1 into which the food is poured4 ,this plan of feeding can only be had recourse to at night1 and the pieces of wood must be removed in the morning4 ,by feeding at the top of the stock hive any interruption of the bees is avoided4 ,for further instructions on this head see the directions given for using the bottle feeder4 ,a ,,zinc ,,fountain ,,bee ,,feeder4 ,no4 #ae4 ,illustration ,we invented the fountain bee-feeder so that a larger supply of liquid food might be given to a hive than is practicable with the ,no4 #aj round feeder4 ,the liquid honey is poured in at the opening1 which unscrews2 whilst being filled1 the inside slide closing the opening through which the food passes into the feeding pan1 should be shut down4 ,when the reservoir is filled1 the screw is made fast1 and the slide being withdrawn1 a wooden float pierced with small holes1 through which the bees take the food1 forms a false bottom1 and rises and falls with the liquid4 ,this feeder being on the syphon principle1 like a poultry or bird water-fountain1 is supplied from the reservoir until that is empty4 ,a piece of glass is fixed in the side of the reservoir1 in order that the bee-keeper may see when it is emptied4 ,a flat piece of glass on the top prevents the bees from escaping1 and through it they may be inspected whilst feeding4 ,the bees find access to the feeder on to the perforated float through the central round hole1 which is placed over a corresponding hole in the stock hive4 ,,nutt',s ,,drawer ,,feeder4 ,no4 #i4 ,illustration ,this is the feeding drawer1 alluded to in the explanation of the management of the ,no4 #a ,nutt's ,collateral ,hive1 for feeding at the bottom of the middle or stock box4 ,the feeder is made of tin1 and of a square form1 so as to fit the drawer 7see page #ai74 ,,honey ,,cutters4 ,no4 #ac4 ,illustration ,honey ,cutters are used for removing comb from boxes and glasses without damaging it4 ,the flat bladed knife is for disconnecting the combs from the sides2 the hook shaped one is for the same purpose1 to be applied to the top or horizontal part of the box or glass4 ,,fumigator4 ,no4 #aa4 ,illustration ,this ,fumigator is a tin box1 somewhat like a pepper box upon a foot4 ,it is a simple adaptation of the fumigating apparatus described by ,mr4 ,nutt1 and is used in the following manner4 ,have a straw hive or other vessel ready1 that will match in circumference the hive intended to be fumigated4 ,if the empty hive have a conical top1 it will not remain crown downwards without a rest2 in this case1 it will be convenient to invert it on a pail4 ,having ascertained that the hive to be operated upon and the empty one in its reversed position nearly match in size1 take half a packet of the prepared fungus1 fire it well1 and place it in the box or fumigator2 placing this in the centre of the empty hive1 then bring the occupied hive directly over1 so as to receive the fumes of smoke4 ,to keep all close1 put a wet cloth round the place where the two hives meet4 ,in a minute or two the bees may be heard dropping heavily into the lower empty hive1 where they lie stupefied4 ,after a little while1 the old hive may be tapped upon to make the bees fall more quickly4 ,on removing the upper hive1 the bees from it will be found lying quiet at the bottom of the lower one4 ,place a sheet on the ground1 and spread the bees on it1 then with a feather sort them over1 in order to pick out the queen-bee4 ,as soon as the queen is found1 then pour the rest of the lethargic swarm from off the sheet back into the inverted hive again4 ,the stupefied bees must now be sprinkled freely with a syrup made of honey and water1 or sugar and ale boiled together4 ,some apiarians recommend a few drops of peppermint to be mixed with the syrup1 in order to drown the peculiar odour which is special to each hive of bees1--this is more necessary when two hives of bees are fumigated and whilst under the influence of smoke are well mixed together4 ,the hive containing the bees with which it is intended to unite the stupefied bees1 must now be placed on the top of that containing the latter1 just as the hive was from which they have come4 ,a wet cloth must be fastened round the two hives1 so as to prevent any of the bees from escaping4 ,the hives in this position must be placed where they are not likely to be knocked down or meddled with4 ,the fresh bees in the upper hive1 attracted by the scent of the bees besmeared with honey1 go down and commence to lick off the sweets from the sprinkled sleepy ones4 ,the latter gradually revive1 when all get mingled together1 and ascend in company to the upper hive1 where they live as if they had not been separate families4 ,the two hives should be left undisturbed for twenty-four hours1 then the upper hive may be removed and placed immediately on the spot from whence it was brought4 ,the reason the queen is recommended to be taken is to prevent any fighting4 ,the queen should be kept alive and fed as long as she will live1 in case any harm should befall the sovereign of the other community4 ,,the ,,fumigator4 ,no4 #ab4 ,illustration ,the ,fumigator is useful for several purposes4 ,when a frame hive has to be disturbed it is requisite to raise the lid and blow a little smoke into the hive1 so as to check the angry passions of the bees4 ,if it be desirable to stupefy the bees1 ignited fungus must be placed in the box1 and the flattened end applied to the entrance of the hive2 the smoke is then blown in--either with bellows or by applying the mouth of the operator1--taking care to close all openings through which the smoke can escape4 ,the bees fall down stupefied1 generally in about ten minutes1 but the effect varies according to the populousness of the hive and the quantity of comb in it4 ,the projected operations must now be performed speedily1 as activity will soon be regained4 ,see preceding directions4 ,,the ,,bee ,,dress ,,or ,,protector4 ,no4 #ca4 ,illustration ,all operations connected with the removal or the hiving of bees should be conducted with calmness and circumspection4 ,bees1 although the busiest of creatures1 have great dislike to fussiness in their masters1 and become irritable at once if the apiarian lets them see that he is in a hurry4 ,hence1 there is great advantage in having the face and hands covered whilst at work amongst the bees2 for when the operator knows he cannot possibly be stung1 he can then open his hives1 take out the combs1 gather in his swarms1 or take the honey1 with all the deliberation of a philosopher4 ,various kinds of bee dresses have been contrived2 one that we keep ready in stock is of very simple construction4 ,it is made of strong black net1 in shape like an inverted bag1 large enough to allow of a gentleman's wide-awake or a lady's hat being worn underneath4 ,the projection of the hat or cap causes the dress to stand off from the face2 and the meshes of the net1 though much too small for a bee to penetrate1 are wide enough to allow of clear vision for the operator4 ,an elastic band secures the dress round the waist2 the sleeves also--made of durable black calico--are secured at the wrists by a similar method4 ,the hands of the bee-master may be effectually protected with a pair of ,india-rubber gloves1 which should be put on before the dress is fastened round the wrists4 ,this kind of glove is regularly used by photographers1 and allows of perfect ease in manipulation4 ,thus a very simple and inexpensive means of protection will enable even a novice in bee-keeping to make his observations and conduct his experiments under a sense of perfect security4 ,still he need not be careless as to the feelings of his bees2 his success and their comfort will be promoted by his handling them gently1 and as if he loved them4 ,familiarity between bees and their master breed not contempt1 but affection4 ,any sudden or clumsy movement which jars the combs or frames will excite the bees1 and if but one should be crushed1 the odour of their slaughtered comrade rouses them to a pitch of exasperation4 ,their powers of smell are very acute4 ,the best time for most operations is in the middle of a fine day4 ,,engraved ,,pressing ,,roller4 ,no4 #df4 ,,for ,,the ,,guidance ,,of ,,bees ,,in ,,the ,,construction ,,of ,,honey-,,comb ,,on ,,the ,,bars4 ,illustration ,this is an engraved metal roller1 which when applied to the coated underside of a comb-bar leaves an impression like the diagram shown4 ,the wax having been spread on the flat bar1 the roller1 heated by being put into hot water1 is then heavily pressed over it4 ,the roller has two wood handles1 so that considerable pressure may be given to it4 ,the roller is a little less than #b inches in diameter1 of an inch wide1 and the length from handle to handle is #f inches4 ,the diagram shows the full size of the impressions as left on the wax after passing the roller along the comb bar in the manner above described4 ,it is a contrivance invented in ,switzerland1 and exhibited in the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb1 when the pattern roller was purchased by ourselves4 ,the bars of a hive prepared with these markings in wax afford ready made foundations for regular combs1 which very much facilitate the operations of the bees4 ,,impressed ,,wax ,,sheets ,,for ,,artificial ,,comb4 ,these artificial partition walls for combs are sheets of genuine wax1 about the substance of thin cardboard4 ,they receive rhomboidal impressions by being pressed between two metal plates1 carefully and mathematically prepared and cast so that the impressions are exactly the same size as the base of the cells of a honey-comb4 ,an inspection of a piece of comb will show that the division of the opposite cells is made by a thin partition wall common to both2 now the substance of this is said to be only the one hundred and eightieth part of an inch1 whilst the artificial ones we are recommending are between the thirtieth and fortieth part of an inch1 more than four times the thickness of the handy-work of the bees themselves4 ,it would1 indeed1 be vain to attempt to furnish sheets of wax at all approaching their own delicate fabric2 the impressed sheets are quite as thin as they can be to bear the handling which is requisite for fixing them in the hives4 ,we find1 however1 that the thickness is no disadvantage2 the bees speedily excavate and pare the artificial sheet so as to suit their own notions of the substance required2 then1 with admirable economy1 they use the surplus thus obtained for the construction of the cells4 ,after a sheet has been partly worked at by the bees1 it is interesting to hold it up to the light and observe the beautiful transparency of that part of it contrasted with the opaqueness of the part not yet laboured upon4 ,when it is considered1 as writers tell us1 that more than fourteen pounds of honey are required for the secretion and elaboration of a single pound of comb1 it will not be difficult to form a just estimate of the value of this invention1 which thus furnishes cheap and excellent assistance to our industrious favorites4 ,it also shows the bee-keeper that all clean empty combs should be carefully preserved1 and considered as valuable stock4 ,another great advantage that it affords us is1 that it renders us independent of guide comb1 which is not always obtainable4 ,when a sheet or a strip of this impressed wax is properly fixed to the comb bar1 it is certain to be the guide and foundation of a straight comb4 ,this invention has been derived from ,germany1 where it has been adopted many years with success4 ,at the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb1 we purchased the metal plates or castings1 so as to manufacture the impressed sheets with which we are now able to supply our customers2 and1 after the careful trials we have made1 we have great confidence in recommending them4 ,in the season of #ahfc we furnished a ,woodbury glass super with the wax sheets fixed to the bars1 in the manner hereafter to be explained1 and it was truly astonishing to see the rapidity with which these sheets of wax were worked into comb4 ,receptacles were quickly made ready for the storing of honey1 and the new combs soon became beautifully white2 for although the artificial wax has a yellow tinge1 yet after being worked at and made thinner1 it is as good in colour as ordinary combs4 ,for supers we cut the wax plates in half1 making one serve for two bars4 ,we have received from ,germany the following directions for the fastening of the artificial plates to the comb bars4 ,hereafter will be described a plan which we have adopted1 and to which preference is given4 7,translation7 ,the unstamped edge of the plate receives incisions half an inch distant from one another made with a sharp knife1 the plate having been a little warmed4 ,then it is pinched between two equally strong ledges which have been well moistened2 the projecting edge of the plate which received the incisions is alternately bent to the right and to the left4 ,the comb bars are well besmeared with artificial sticking wax 7a mixture of two parts of wax and one part of ,american resin71 and is well warmed at a fire4 ,afterwards the besmeared side is laid upon the bent end of the plate1 and pressed to it as firmly as possible4 ,a small wooden ledge1 besmeared with sticking wax and fastened by means of pressure to the lower edge of the plate1 prevents it from bending1 which sometimes happens when the bees work it4 ,to carry out the directions here given1 it is necessary to warm the besmeared comb-bar at a fire2 the wax plate has also to be warmed4 ,having tried this plan1 and found inconvenience attending it1 especially from the wax curling with the heat and the difficulty of making it stick firm1--to say nothing of the uncomfortableness of performing the operation before a fire on a hot day in ,july1--we began to consider if a little carpentering might not do the work better and more pleasantly1 and adopted the following plan3--,we split or cut the comb bars of the ,woodbury super in half lengthways1 and taking the unstamped edge between the two strips1 join them together again by small screws at the side1 confining the wax plate tightly in the centre1 with no possibility of its falling down4 ,where frames are used1 of course1 the bar could not be cut in two 7except with the compound bar and frame1 where the bar being loose1 it might be as easily managed74 ,the plan we adopt with an ordinary frame is to saw out an opening about an inch1 or an inch and a half from either end where the sides are morticed in2 this opening we make with a keyhole saw4 ,through it the wax plate is easily put1 and with a heated iron passed over the upper side of the bar1 is made sufficiently firm4 ,if the wax plates are too large1 a portion may easily be cut off2 an opening of full #aa inches long can be made without materially weakening the bar and frame4 ,the wax plates must not extend to the bottom of the frame2 a space of at least one inch should be left for expansion1 because the bees in working the plate stretch it down lower4 ,we also use a few pins firmly pressed into the frames1 and long enough to reach the edge of the plate1 for by fixing three or four pins on either side1 both at the sides and at the bottom1 the plate may be held in an exactly central position within the frame4 ,as before mentioned1 when these directions are carried out1 there is no fear of being troubled with crooked combs on bars4 ,the secretion of wax1 and the method of its adaptation by the bees1 is thus admirably described by ,evans3-- ,thus filtered through yon flatterer's folded mail ,clings the cooled wax1 and hardens to a scale4 ,swift at the well-known call1 the ready train 7,for not a buzz boon ,nature breathes in vain17 ,spring to each falling flake1 and bear along ,their glossy burdens to the builder throng4 ,these1 with sharp sickle1 or with sharper tooth1 ,pare each excrescence1 and each angle smooth1 ,till now1 in finish'd pride1 two radiant rows ,of snow-white cells one mutual base disclose2 ,six shining panels gird each polish'd round1 ,the door's fine rim1 with waxen fillet bound1 ,while walls so thin1 with sister walls combined1 ,weak in themselves1 a sure dependance find4 99 99 99 99 99 ,others in firm phalanx ply their twinkling feet1 ,stretch out the ductile mass1 and form the street1 ,with many a cross-way1 path1 and postern gate1 ,that shorten to their range the spreading state4 ,,iv4 ,,manipulation ,,and ,,uses ,,of ,,bar ,,and ,,frame ,,hives4 ,having at page #cf1 given a description of the mechanical arrangements of bar and frame hives1 the next thing is to describe the mode of introducing the bees1 and of thus bringing the humane and scientific hives into operation4 ,the swarm should be first hived into a common straw hive from the bough or shrub upon which they may have alighted2 place this hive1--into which we will suppose the bees have been shaken1--on the ground1 propped up on one side with a brick or a flower pot1 or anything of the sort that may be handy1 in order that straggler bees may join the swarm4 ,the spot selected for this should be as shady an one as can be found1 near to the place where the swarm settled2 or it may be shaded from the rays of the sun by fixing matting on two poles so as to prevent the heat falling on the hive2 spread a sheet or cloth on the ground where an even surface can be obtained2 stake this sheet down at the four corners1 to prevent ruts and inequalities1 which are great hindrances to the bees going into the bar and frame hive2 place the latter upon the sheet without its floorboard1 having its front raised on blocks or sticks rather more than an inch1--not more1 otherwise the bees will cluster and attach themselves to the lower part of the frames instead of going up between4 ,these preparations will perhaps occupy ten minutes1 by which time the swarm will have become settled and tolerably quiet4 ,then with a sharp rap precipitate the bees out of the straw hive on to the sheet immediately in front of the frame hive2 give the straw hive another knock so as to dislodge all the bees1 and then take it quite away1 otherwise they may1 if it be left near1 perversely choose to go into that instead of the one desired4 ,in some cases1 as when the swarm has to be brought from a distance1 and procured from a cottager about whose skill in carrying out these directions there may be misgivings1 it is best to give instructions that the swarm be brought home after sunset1 and then the foregoing directions for inducing the bees to tenant the frame-hive may be better carried out2 for ourselves1 we much prefer the evening for the purpose4 ,a little water sprinkled over them from a watering pot is likely to induce the bees to quit the ground and go up into the hive more quickly4 ,mr4 ,langstroth1 in his admirable book ,the ,hive and ,honey ,bee1 writes ,if they are too dilatory in entering the new hive1 they may be gently separated with a spoon or leafy twig1 where they gather in bunches on the sheets or they may be carefully 'spooned up' and shaken out close to the front of the hive4 ,as these go in with fanning wings1 they will raise a peculiar note1 which communicates to their companions that they have found a home1 and in a short time the whole swarm will enter1 without injury to a single bee4 ,in the ,journal of ,horticulture1 ,mr4 ,woodbury says ,if combs be fixed in the frames1 the crown board may be removed1 and the cluster knocked out of the straw hive on to the top of the exposed frames4 ,the bees will disappear between them with the utmost alacrity1 delighted to have met with a ready furnished dwelling1 and the top or crown board having been replaced1 the hive should at once be removed to the position it is intended permanently to occupy4 ,no one should attempt these operations without being protected by a bee dress1 and a pair of ,india-rubber gloves1--such as those used by photographers1--which are sting proof4 ,some persons also take the precaution of tying strings round the ankles of the trowsers1 lest some straggler should determine to attack the outposts of the enemy1 which1 to say the least1 might perplex the operator in the midst of his task4 ,elastic ,india-rubber bands are good for this purpose1 or a pair of knickerbockers would be useful4 ,if ,wellington boots are worn1 the trowsers may be tucked within the leather1 in which case no bee can molest the operator1 and no string or band will be needed4 ,practice makes perfect in bee tending as in other matters1 and when a light hand is gained1 there is little danger of the apiarian being stung4 ,if the weather be wet the next day or so after hiving1 it will be well to give a little assistance to the new colony in the shape of food1 for although when a swarm leaves a hive almost every bee composing it fills itself with honey1 we have known not a few instances in case of very wet weather1 in which the whole swarm has been starved for the want of this little timely help4 ,of course1 the first work of the bees is to build themselves combs1 and these combs being produced by the secretion of wax from honey1 a great drain upon their resources immediately begins1 and any little outlay at this juncture is abundantly compensated by its enabling these industrious emigrants the more quickly to push1 forward the furnishing of their new home4 ,clean combs from hives that may have lost their bees are readily accepted1 and cause a great saving in time and material to the bees2 these combs may easily be fixed by cutting them the proper size to fit within the frames1 and making them firm by tying with tape or fixing them with pliable wire4 ,artificial comb 7see page #gj7 is often used1 and has this advantage1 that the combs are certain to be straight and regular1 besides the saving in material to the bees4 ,these preparations must be made prior to the bees being hived1 so that when a hive is so prepared1 a swarm may begin to adapt whatever advantages they find ready for them2 and it is truly marvellous what a swarm will do when thus furnished with combs in their new habitation4 ,in these the queen can immediately begin to deposit her eggs1 and the workers to store their honey1 without having to wait for the construction of combs1 which is a laborious occupation for the bees4 ,in some cases1 fine white combs may be taken from the stock hive2 the end frames are always the most free from brood4 ,care must be exercised not to rob this part of the hive too much2 one comb may perhaps be removed in the course of the season without impoverishing the bees1 but it is not wise to take more4 ,putting on ,super ,hive4--,a colony established a year or more is called a stock1 by way of distinction from a swarm of the present year4 ,supposing the hive to be a stock1 the super should be given them at the early part of the season1 say1 if fine and warm1 at the latter end of ,april or beginning of ,may2 if the weather be then unfavourable1 it is better to delay doing so until a more genial temperature4 ,if the colony be a swarm of the present year1 two weeks should be allowed to elapse from the time of tenanting a hive1 before putting on the super2 this delay is necessary to give the bees the opportunity of building combs in their new domicile1 and of getting a store of honey for themselves before working for their master4 ,when it is wished to use a super1 the crown board or roof of the stock hive must be taken away1 the thin adapting or honey board taking its place2 the two long slits at the sides are to give admission to the super4 ,the bees will begin sooner and work faster if the eight bars are each furnished with artificial comb 7as described page #ga74 ,we have had depriving hives very quickly filled when the bees were thus assisted4 ,combs that have been left unfilled may be fixed to the bars as before described2 these must be white and clean1 as dark comb should not be used for super hives4 ,the combs when filled may be taken out singly1 if desired for consumption1 substituting an empty bar or comb2 or should the bee-keeper desire to see a handsome super1 he must wait until the bees have filled and sealed up all the combs1 and then he may proceed to deprive them of it as before described4 ,taking out ,frames with ,combs4--,it is well for a beginner to practice the directions for opening and shutting up hives by using an empty hive1 until he becomes familiar with the handling of the frames4 ,the first thing to do is to loosen the crown board or lid with a knife1 drawing a piece of string underneath it to divide the wax or cement with which the bees make all secure4 ,this string should be drawn through very slowly1 so as not to irritate the bees4 ,in hot weather1 the crown board may be loosened by a lateral movement2 but sometimes1 for want of care1 this loosening of the lid disturbs the bees1 and as soon as it is removed1 a number of them1 enraged thereby1 pour out and attack the operator4 ,this and all other operations ought be done very carefully and gently2 especial care should be taken not to prise the lid upwards1 by way of wrenching it off1 for the frames and combs are generally secured thereto1 and there is a liability of rending the combs with it2 this will greatly irritate the bees1 and be otherwise injurious4 ,when a hive of bees is enraged1 there is little chance of pacifying them2 it is best1 under such circumstances to 'give in' at once1 and not attempt to perform any operation1 but to shut the hive up and beat a retreat1 benefiting by the experience so as to do better in a day or so afterwards4 ,there are various devices for intimidating or conciliating the bees1 and one of these already spoken of is--smoke4 ,so next time the experimenter makes his attempt let bill6 raise the lid an inch or so1 and blow a few puffs of smoke into the hive1 which will cause the bees to retreat4 ,this is best done by using our ,no4 #ab fumigator1 with a little of the prepared fungus lighted4 ,pipes or cigars are not convenient to use for this purpose when the head is enveloped in the dress4 ,as soon as the lid is removed1 a few bees will fly out to learn the cause of such an interference4 ,conciliation should then be introduced by having at hand a little sweetened water1 which may be sprinkled1 or rather let drop from a feather or brush4 ,the sudden motion of the hand required in the act of sprinkling irritates the bees1 so that instead of making them our friends1 they may become our foes4 ,mr4 ,langstroth recommends that a fine watering pot filled with sweetened water1 be used for the purpose4 ,care must be taken not to drench the bees2 only just sufficient should be given to run down the sides of the combs as well as sprinkling the top4 ,as soon as the bees really understand that syrup is being given them1 they feast upon it instead of angrily attacking the operator4 ,thus pacified1 and with gentle treatment1 but little difficulty will be found in proceeding with the work required4 ,but the unskilled operator should on no account neglect to put on a bee-dress and gloves as described above4 ,we would err on the side of caution1 although there is an old saying that a cat in gloves catches no mice1 and the apiarian will find that his fingers are not so free to work as he would like1 for gloves make them rather clumsy in drawing up the frames4 ,the frames must now be gently prised from front to rear2 this may be done with a small screw-driver or other stout instrument with a wedged end to go into the notches4 ,the frames fit loosely so as to allow of a little movement from back to front2 a lateral or side-way movement might kill the queen2 or if not so fatal as that1 might crush some of the bees and injure the brood combs1 and must be carefully avoided4 ,it1 of course1 depends upon what the operation is that has to be performed whether or no all the frames should be thus loosened4 ,if it be for making artificial swarms1 or for any purpose requiring an interview with her majesty1 the whole of them must be loosened1 because it often happens that all the combs have to be examined1 sometimes twice over1 before she can be discovered4 ,bees are very apt to build their combs in a slightly waving form1 and in extracting one it will be needful to make room both for the comb and bees upon it to pass without scraping the next comb1 and there will be a difficulty if the apiarian attempts to draw out one comb whilst the other frames are located in their appropriate notches4 ,let the operator gently proceed to lift say the third frame 7allowing it to lodge on the little block that divides the notches7 a little nearer to the fourth frame1 and the second nearer the third1 so as to admit of sufficient space to lift out the end one4 ,very carefully and slowly he should lift the frame by taking hold with thumb and finger of the projecting shoulders that rest in the notch2 and he must not let it touch or scrape the next frame or the sides of the hive so as to crush or irritate any bees4 ,after the end comb is thus removed1 it will be easy to extract the others1 as there will now be plenty of room for drawing them out4 ,a hive of exactly the same size should be at hand2 and in case it be desired to remove the combs and bees into another hive1 care should be taken that each comb occupies the same relative position that it did in the old hive4 ,in handling the frames1 bear in mind that they are to be held perpendicularly4 ,to gain a view of both sides of the comb when searching for the queen1 or for any purpose requiring full inspection1 with a little dexterity in twirling the frame round1 the reverse side may be brought to face the operator1 without letting the comb break away by its own weight and so fall out of the frame1 which it will do if allowed to deviate from its upright or downright position4 ,if the operator could see an experienced person perform the operation1 he would quickly understand how combs may thus be handled without any risk of a smash4 ,when placing frames in the hive1 care must be taken not to crush a bee between the projecting shoulders of the frame and the rabbets or notches on which they rest1 and on no account must the frame be let down with a jerk1 or the bees will become exceedingly fierce3 the frame should be so slowly deposited in its place that a bee on feeling the slightest pressure may have the opportunity of escaping unhurt thereby4 ,the crown board should be replaced by first resting its front edge in its place1 and then slowly lowering the after part1 looking carefully under1 and momentarily raising it when necessary to avoid crushing a bee4 ,should the hive have its super on1 the same directions may be followed4 ,the super with its honey board may be bodily taken away1 and so placed and confined for a time that robber bees cannot find an entrance1 and also be far enough from the apiarian to be out of danger of being broken or overturned by him4 ,advantages of ,bar and ,frame ,hives4--,it will be asked why all this trouble about bar and frames with straight combs built upon them8 ,we have shown the full command which the bee-keeper has over a hive so constituted1 and we now proceed to show how in skilful hands these advantages may be used successfully2 though1 in the hands of the unpractised and unskilful the contrary may be the result4 ,all the bars and frames in an apiary ought to be of precisely the same dimensions1 so as to fit every hive4 ,this is essential for the strengthening of weak hives4 ,a hive that is weakly may often be advantageously strengthened by having put into it a comb of brood from a populous stock1 to which an empty frame from the weak one may be given2 no bees must be on the brood-comb--these should be shaken off or gently dislodged with a feather into the hive from which the comb is taken4 ,the frames of the hive from which the comb has been taken1 should be1 one by one1 placed so as to fill in the vacancy1 leaving the empty frame nearest the side4 ,when a hive has been in use many years1 the combs become very black1 and every bee that is bred in a cell leaves a film behind4 ,it may be understood how in this way the cells become contracted1 so that the bees that are bred in them are correspondingly reduced in size4 ,after the lapse of say five years1 it may be necessary to begin to remove the old combs4 ,this may be done by cutting away the comb or by substituting an empty frame for one with old black comb1 gradually moving the frames towards each other4 ,by taking two away in this manner in the spring or summer of every season1 the combs in course of five years may all be reconstructed and fresh clean ones be secured for breeding in1 instead of the old black ones that otherwise would remain as long as the stock could live in the hive4 ,artificial ,swarming4--,every bee-keeper knows the anxiety there is in watching and expecting a swarm to come forth1 fearful lest his favorites should1 like riches1 take wing and fly away1 a mischance that it is desirable to prevent4 ,in our description of natural swarming this will be found fully treated of2 we propose here merely to point out how1 with the moveable frames1 this work of nature may be assisted--we say assisted1 because artificial swarming should1 as nearly as possible1 resemble natural swarming1 that is1 it should be performed at the same time of the year1 and when the populous state of the hive makes a division desirable4 ,this is easily known to be the case when bees hang out in clusters at the entrance1 wasting their time in enforced idleness instead of being abroad gathering honey4 ,it is also necessary that the hive contain drones4 ,an empty hive should be placed on the stand when the living hive is removed1 for the purpose of amusing returning bees4 ,if the hive is kept in a bee-house1 the entrance should be shut down unto the hive is restored1 when the clustered bees may be at once admitted4 ,when such is the state of the hive1 the facility of forming an artificial swarm with a moveable frame hive is a decided advantage4 ,the best time for performing the operation is about ten o'clock in the morning of a fine summer's day4 ,the following directions should be carried out3--place ready a counter or bench that is firm and strong1 and which has space on it for the inhabited--or rather the over-inhabited--frame hive and the empty one1 which is about to be made the receptacle of a separate stock4 ,the operator having on bee-dress and the other appliances ready1 may now open the hive as before described1 and proceed to take out the frames1 carefully examining both sides of each comb to find the queen3 she is generally in the centre of the hive1 so that it is not always needful to take out all the ten frames4 ,as they are examined1 the frames may be put into the empty hive1 and when the object of the bee-master's search is found1 he must carefully remove the frame containing her majesty1 and may place it temporarily in the empty hive at one end by itself4 ,next he must proceed to put the frames back into the old hive1 closing up the vacancy caused by the removal of the comb with the queen on it1 and leave the empty frame at the end4 ,then he may place the frame containing the queen--with the few bees that may be upon it--in the centre of the empty hive2 then putting all the other frames in1 and replacing the lid1 the bee-master will place this hive in the exact position occupied by the old stock4 ,the bees that are on the wing will go to the old spot1 and finding the queen there1 they will rally round her and very soon form a sufficient number to constitute a swarm2 comb building will at once begin1 the frames will in a week or so be filled1 and a satisfactory stock will thus be established4 ,by doing this at the right time1 just before the bees are about to swarm1 or when there are many drones1 all the trouble of watching and waiting for them is saved4 ,mr4 ,woodbury claims the honour of having originated this mode of artificial swarming2 subsequently ,mr4 ,langstroth and others have described a similar process1 no doubt originally1 as far as they knew1 therefore still more useful to us as a confirmation of the value of ,mr4 ,woodbury's discovery4 ,this operation we performed1 exactly as described above1 with one of our improved cottage hives one afternoon at the latter end of ,may1 #ahfb4 ,whilst inspecting our bees1 we caught sight of the queen on the comb in one of the bell glasses4 ,this was a chance not to be missed1 and we immediately resolved to form an artificial swarm1 for the hive was very full of bees4 ,besides1 being obliged to be away from the apiary most of the week1 we were glad of the opportunity of so easily establishing a colony without the uncertainty and trouble of hiving a natural swarm4 ,in the first place we slid a tin under the bell glass1 and removing the stock hive from underneath we took it a few feet away2 then we placed an empty improved cottage hive where the old stock had stood1 and put the glass of comb containing the queen and a few bees over one of the holes in the crown of this new empty hive4 ,the bees that were left abroad1 belonging to the old stock returned as usual to their old entrance as they supposed2 soon a sufficient number formed a large cluster in the hive and began comb building1 the queen remaining in the glass until the cells below were sufficiently numerous for her to deposit her eggs in them4 ,the division answered exceedingly well1 both hives prospered2 the old hive either had some princesses coming forward to supply the loss of the queen1 or the bees used a power that they possess of raising a queen from worker brood in the manner we have previously described4#e ,footnote #e3 ,see ,section #a1 page #e4 ,the foregoing account illustrates the successful formation of an artificial swarm2 but with a cottage hive it was quite a matter of accident to have been able to get possession of the queen4 ,with a moveable frame hive she can at any suitable time be found4 ,precisely the same plan is to be adopted with the old stock in the frame hive as we have described in the case of the cottage hive1 that is to remove it some few paces off3 when the hives are in a bee-house1 a similar result may be attained by placing the new swarm for a day or two to the entrance used by the bees when with the old stock1 and the old stock may be removed to an approximate entrance4 ,some apiarians recommend that a space be left between the two hives1 by placing the hives on the right and left of the old entrance1 in order that too large a proportion of bees should not enter the new hive at the old position to the impoverishment of the other4 ,but we have found the mode adopted with the cottage hive answer so well1 that we see no reason for recommending any different plan4 ,it is the office of the bee-master to assist1 not to go in the least degree contrary to nature4 ,we know that when a natural swarm issues forth it has its impregnated queen1 and when located in a new abode commences building worker combs1 and leaves the building of the few drone combs to a later period2 but if a division of the hive should be made by putting half the combs in one hive and half in another1 the hive containing the queenless or embryo queen will busy itself with building only drone comb1 thus a number of receptacles for useless bees is provided1 which tends to weakness1 and eventually to loss of the hive4 ,in the plan we have recommended for forming two separate families1 we nearly follow the natural state of things2 the comb that the queen is upon is the only one that is taken from the hive1 and this vacancy should be filled in by moving the frames together so as to leave the empty frame at the end4 ,the bees1 under the government of the impregnated queen1 construct the combs and furnish their new abode1 which1 as before stated1 they will do with worker cells4 ,by adopting the plan above described1 the moveable bar and frame hive will prove far superior to any of the dividing hives1 which provide for equal division of the combs4 ,perhaps the greatest advantage the moveable frame hive possesses is1 that a full knowledge can be attained of its exact state as regards the queen1 the population and the quantity of food in stock4 ,during weather of a genial temperature1 the combs may on any fine day be inspected1 and thus a knowledge being gained of the deficiency existing in a hive1 the necessary means may be adopted for supplying the want4 ,sometimes such an examination will verify the fears of the bee-keeper1 when1 having observed that his bees have ceased to carry in pollen1 he has thereby received warning that the queen has been lost at some juncture when no successor to the throne could be provided4 ,such a hive has entered on a downward course1 and will dwindle away entirely unless a queen should be given to it1 or else1 some combs containing young brood not more than three days old4 ,by the latter method the bee-keeper will gain an opportunity of seeing the bees set about their wonderful process of raising a queen from the brood thus provided for them4 ,when a bee-keeper has become skilful in his calling1 he may be desirous to encourage the breeding of queens1 or rather of preventing their destruction4 ,he will seek to use the propagating instincts of the worker bees as a set off against that innate hatred of rivalry which prompts the reigning queen to kill the tender royal brood4 ,hives found to be queenless may be supplied either with matured queens or with queen cells4 ,if the latter are sufficiently numerous1 their introduction may easily be effected by exchanging a comb in each hive2 if they have to be cut out and placed loosely in the new hive1 a triangular piece of comb should then be removed with them1 to be used as a block in preventing any pressure coming on them4 ,a space must be cut out of the middle in the centre combs of the hive into which they are to be introduced4 ,special care must be taken not to bruise the royal embryos1 as they are particularly sensitive to pressure4 ,a very great advantage that the ,woodbury bar and frame-hive possesses1 is the safety and convenience with which a stock of bees can in it be transported to any part of the kingdom2 and1 by a few additional arrangements1 stocks have been sent in it to distant countries4 ,in many districts hives are removed to moors and heaths in autumn1 for the purpose of gathering heather honey4 ,in this operation the frames are a great support to the combs1 very much lessening the risk of a break down and consequent loss4 ,from a hive that has been inhabited all the winter1 we have not unfrequently lifted out the frames and removed the stock to a clean hive1 and we believe that the change has always been useful4 ,the bees find a clean floorboard and a clean hive to breed in1 free from insects that may have harboured in crevices about the hive4 ,when the change has been made1 the old hive can be thoroughly cleaned1 and used in the same way for making the exchange with another stock4 ,the process for handling will1 of course1 be the same as before described4 ,we have found that where this plan has been carried out1 that the bees seem to progress faster4 ,perhaps a little stirring up may be useful in arousing them from the winter doze2 the time we recommend for doing this is the beginning of ,april1 but a fine warm day should be chosen4 ,,driving4 ,driving is an operation by which bees are induced to vacate an old settled hive and to enter an empty one4 ,many apiarians prefer this mode of effecting an exchange of hives to the plan of fumigating the bees4 ,the greatest success attending such a transfer will be in the case of hives well filled with combs that are worked nearly to the floorboard2 and it may be remarked that bees are generally so far provident1 that they leave an open space in which to pass underneath their combs over all the floor of the hive4 ,when the old hive is inverted1 the bees crawl up the combs1 and thus more easily pass up into the new hive1 which the operator places over the old one with the intent that they should enter it4 ,the best time for performing this operation is about the middle of the day1 and when the weather is warm4 ,it is essential that the operator be protected with a bee-dress and gloves1 as before described2 and previous to commencing his task1 he must provide all necessary implements4 ,these are3--a couple of hives1 one of which should correspond in shape and size with the hive from which the bees are to be driven2 a cloth to tie round at the junction when the new hive is placed on the old one2 some string to keep the cloth in its place2 an empty pail to receive the top of the old hive1 if one of the old conical shape1 but if the stock of bees is in a square box hive with a flat top1 a firm stool will be the best2 and a ,no4 #ab fumigator with some fungus1 which will complete the material of war4 ,the bucket or stool must be placed securely on the ground about a yard from the place where the full hive stands2 then a few puff's of smoke being blown in amongst the bees1 will cause them to retreat up amongst the combs4 ,the bee-master will now turn the hive#f upside down very gently1 letting it rest in the pail or on the stool2 he then quickly places the empty hive over the full one1 and ties the cloth round it to prevent any escape of the bees4 ,if the cloth be damped1 it will cling the closer to the hives4 ,the third hive is intended to be placed on the stand formerly occupied by the stock1 so as to retain the few returning bees which had been absent in the fields4 ,care must be taken that all crevices through which it is possible for the bees to escape from the united hives should be effectually closed4 ,when the two are fairly united1 the operator will proceed by rapping the full hive gently with the hands or a couple of sticks1 more particularly on that side where the combs are the most thickly placed--that is1 if the hive be not equally filled4 ,footnote #f3 ,care should be exercised in turning the hives over to keep the combs vertical1 or they are likely to break from their foundations4 ,it generally happens that in about fifteen minutes the bees regularly commence the ascent2 their exodus will be known by the distinct rushing sound which is always noticed when a colony of bees is on the move4 ,the first thing bees do when disturbed is to till their honey bags1 as they invariably do at swarming time1 consequently after the first rush into the new hive is over1 as in the case of a swarm1 the flitting bees are not much disposed to take wing4 ,when the noise made by the ascending bees has been heard1 and has in good degree subsided1 the cloth may be removed1 and the old hive1 now deserted1 may be taken indoors1 and if a few bees yet remain1 they may be brushed off with a feather4 ,an experienced apiarian on first hearing the rushing noise before mentioned1 will not hesitate to tilt the top hive over a little on one side1 so that he may watch the bees during the ascent2 the queen may be seen passing up1 and if the operator desires to take her away1 he can secure her by placing a wine glass over her4 ,this expedient is often resorted to in the autumn when stocks are to be united1 for in such a case the removal of the queen prevents some fighting4 ,if the taking of the honey be the object of the bee-master1 then driving is manifestly a better plan than to resort to the fumes of sulphur for the purpose2 for the bees from whom their store is taken1 can be joined to stocks that are weak in numbers1 with considerable advantage to the future prosperity of the apiary4 ,when the removed bees are to be joined to another stock1 the operator will proceed as follows3--,at dusk1 dislodge the bees on to a cloth1 sprinkle them with sweet syrup1 and place the hive to which it is intended to join them1 over the mass2 they will gradually ascend into the hive placed for them1 and early next morning the hive1 with its slender stock thus augmented1 may be removed to its stand4 ,should the operator not have been successful1 or not sufficiently skilful to gain possession of the queen1 he may leave it to the bees themselves to decide which queen they will have4 ,by this plan of driving1 artificial swarms may be secured by an expert even in common hives1 though those do not afford the facilities for such a purpose as do the bar1 or bar-and-frame1 hives4 ,,changing ,,old ,,stocks ,,to ,,new ,,hives4 ,we frequently find that the possessor of a stock of bees in a cottager's common straw hive is desirous of removing the whole stock of bees and comb into one of our improved hives1 in which the honey may be obtained without the destruction of the bees4 ,we mostly discourage such a transfer1 attended as it is with much labour1 and requiring a considerable amount of apiarian skill4 ,an old fashioned hive may very readily be rendered a humane one1 simply by cutting out with a sharp pointed knife the middle of the top of the hive2 a piece may thus easily be taken out1 so as to leave a round hole two or three inches in diameter1 but care must be taken that the knife does not penetrate much below the straw1 lest it reach the comb or the bees--and it will be safer for the operator to have a bee-dress on4 ,there should be ready a round adapting board1 with a corresponding hole1 which may be secured on the top by putting four long nails through the same number of holes in the board2 then a cap hive or a glass may be placed on the top1 for the purpose of admitting the bees1 who will soon crowd therein to work4 ,this hive or glass will form a super or depriving hive1 and can be worked as profitably as most of the improved hives4 ,per the sake of an improved appearance1 an outside case1 either of zinc1 straw1 or wood1 may be dropped over all1 and then1 if well painted1 the whole will form no disfigurement to any flower garden4 ,this is beyond doubt the easiest way of overcoming the difficulty1 but as it may not satisfy all1 we now proceed to describe how a complete transfer may be made4 ,no hive offers such facilities for the correct placing of the combs in a perfectly upright position as does the bar and frame hive4 ,as before remarked1 we should be slow to recommend any one to attempt the operation who is not already pretty well accustomed to the handling of bees and acquainted with their habits2 but by carefully carrying out the following directions any one may successfully perform the feat4 ,the first thing is to get the bees away from the combs2 there are two ways of doing this1 one is by fumigation 7see page #fj71 the other by driving 7see page #hd74 ,whichever plan may be resorted to1 have the bees confined in the old hive on their stand until you are quite ready to admit them into the bar and frame hive4 ,have in readiness all the necessary appliances3 these consist of a large knife for cutting the hive1 a good sized table on which to lay the brood combs1 a basin of water--for washing off honey which may besmear the hands1--tape or cotton string to fasten the combs in their frames1 a pair of honey cutters for cutting out the combs1 jars to hold the honey that runs out1 and a feather for brushing off any bees that may remain4 ,it is necessary that the operator should have on his bee-dress1 and ,india-rubber gloves4 ,then begin by slicing off a piece of the hive with a sharp table knife2 carefully cut out the working combs--cut them large1 so that they will squeeze into the frames2 and to be more secure1 wind some of the tape round to keep them in position until made fast by the bees4 ,after a few days1 these fastenings may be removed4 ,care should be taken that the combs occupy the same position in the frames as in the hive from which they were extracted4 ,having thus prepared the hive1 the bees may be let into it4 ,it may be as well to keep them confined a few hours1 giving them water at the top1 until they make the combs secure2 the new hive will then be less likely to offer an attraction to bees from other hives who1 if feloniously inclined1 might come to rob4 ,this transfer should be made when the weather is such that the bees can fly about2 when not warm enough1 it should be done in a room at a temperature of about #gj degrees4 ,an expert apiarian could perform the operation in less than three quarters of an hour1 and with little loss4 ,a week or so after a swarm has left the old stock is perhaps the very best time for such a removal4 ,should the operation be performed in the open air1 the bees from surrounding hives will be sure to come in great numbers to obtain a share of the honey necessarily exposed1 for they delight in plunder4 ,in order1 therefore1 to avoid annoyance to the operator1 and the excitement which is certain to be induced in surrounding hives1 it is better to conduct the dissection in some building with closed doors4 ,in some instances a routing of this kind has a beneficial effect2 old stocks of hives that have previously appeared to be dwindling1 are often aroused to activity by their removal into a fresh domicile4 ,,weighing ,,hives1 c4 ,one of the most effectual modes of ascertaining the condition of a hive is by weighing it4 ,such knowledge is most important at the close of the gathering season1 in order that the bee-keeper may determine whether he ought to give his bees artificial food to enable them to live through the dreary winter4 ,a knowledge of the numerical strength of the colony is also useful1 in enabling the bee-keeper to decide which hives will be benefited by being joined together1 which may be done on the plan explained in the articles on ,fumigation and ,driving4 ,a hive can very easily be weighed1 if a ,salter's ,spring ,balance be suspended near the apiary4 ,the hive1 having a strap or cord passed under and over it1 and crossing at right angles on the top1 may be hooked on to the balance1 so that the weight will be indicated on the dial4 ,the weight of the hive should be marked on it when empty1 so that the exact amount of its contents may at any time be ascertained4 ,a colony of bees at ,michaelmas ought to weigh from #bj to #bd pounds1 that is1 exclusive of the hive2 if falling short of that weight1 the hive should be made up to it by the artificial means before recommended4 ,experienced apiarians are able to judge of the weight of a hive by lifting it a few inches from the stand2 or by looking in at the windows of a stock hive1 a conclusive opinion may be formed as to the state of the colony4 ,if the combs within view be well filled and sealed1 it will be safe to consider that the hive contains sufficient stores to carry the bees through the winter4 ,v4 ,,miscellaneous ,,information4 ,,stings3 ,,their ,,prevention ,,and ,,cure4 ,some of our readers may deem us neglectful in having1 as it were1 left them to struggle through their bee-keeping novitiate without informing them how to avoid being stung by their docile but well armed flock4 ,of course1 having described the bee-dress1 we have supposed that the apiarian was clad1 if not in complete steel1 at least1 in the head-gear and gloves1 which will render him invulnerable4 ,the best safeguard from the anger of bees--as indeed from the malice of men--is a quiet and peaceable spirit4 ,the apiarian will learn to handle his bees not only as if he loved them1--as the quaint angler says--but as if he fully believes that the bees love him4 ,this they will do whenever he approaches and treats them gently4 ,there are some cases of exception to this generally peaceable disposition of the bee2 sometimes a few bees are dyspeptic1 and refuse to be pacified--let their master seek to bribe them never so wisely4 ,then1 too1 sometimes the bee-master himself may be dyspeptic1 which the unerring olfactory sense of the bees speedily detects1 and their anger is immediately aroused4 ,some few persons1 owing to constitutional peculiarities in their breath or insensible perspiration1 are objects of constant animosity with bees1 who by driving them from the apiary1 are giving a physician's advice without charge for a fee4 ,some of the choicest perfumes used by ladies are offensive to bees3 and one may feel very certain that the fine puss gentleman1 who disgusted the brave ,hotspur with his pouncet box and praise of 'parmaceti for an inward bruise1 would have been speedily driven from an apiary in ignominious flight4 ,occasionally1 even a skilful apiarian may inadvertently crush a single bee2 such a mischance is detected by the community with much more facility than by any crowner's quest1 and their prompt verdict decrees the summary punishment of the offender4 ,there would be much less fear of stings if it were always remembered that bees are never aggressive4 ,defence1 not defiance1 is their motto4 ,they scarcely ever attempt to sting when away from the hive1 and very seldom indeed at the time of swarming1 for then they are gorged with honey4 ,when molested by angry bees1 the safest and best retreat is a green bush4 ,thrust your head into this1 and the bees will soon leave you4 ,yet some people appear to think they must inevitably be stung if they meddle with bees2 and for their sakes it is needful to explain why it is that a sting is painful1 and how the wound inflicted by the bee may be cured4 ,those familiar with the usual microscopic objects will know how marvellously delicate1 and yet effective1 is the mechanical structure of a bee's sting4 ,this weapon as we see it with our naked eye--finer than a needle's point--is only the sheath1 which lengthens or contracts like the tubes of a telescope4 ,from the sheath is projected the dart1 which is double1 each half of it piercing alternately deeper into the wound made by the sheath4 ,the dart is barbed on each side1 so that the bee when very angry is scarcely ever able to withdraw it3-- ,deems life itself to vengeance well resigned2 ,dies on the wound1 and leaves the sting behind4 ,if the patient who receives the sting could only take it patiently1 it would not prove half the inconvenience to him that often is the case4 ,there are indeed some happy mortals whose blood such an even tenour keeps1 that a bee-sting is to them simply a puncture1 and nothing more4 ,dr4 ,bevan has suggested that lovers should subject themselves to the ordeal of a bee-sting1 in order to prove1 we suppose1 that their temper is proof against the stings and arrows of any outrageous fortune that matrimony can bring4 ,it is the hompathically minute tincture of poison injected by the bee which causes inflammation4 ,the first thing to do is to remove the sting1 which1 even when detached from the bee1 will continue to penetrate still further into the wound4 ,next1 press the hollow point of a watch-key exactly over the place stung2 this will express a considerable portion of the virus4 ,then dip the hand or bathe the part with cold or tepid water1 for the poison is volatile1 and will thereby be dissipated to a great extent4 ,on no account whatever should the part affected be rubbed2 to do that will diffuse the poison1 and increase the inflammation4 ,the specific remedy for a bee-sting is taught us by chemistry3 the venom is an acid1 which an alkali will immediately neutralize when brought into contact with it4 ,spirits of hartshorn will generally be found effectual for the purpose1 and should always be kept in an apiary4 ,there are also several other remedies1 more or less effectual1 according to the special constitution of the patient4 ,a strong infusion of tobacco water applied to the wound after the sting has been extracted1 is a specific for many persons2 others find relief from the application of a sliced onion4 ,we have heard the remark from several who have kept bees for years1 that the poison from a sting has little or no effect on them2 after receiving many inflictions1 their flesh appears to become so little affected that the swelling and pain at one time experienced no longer trouble them4 ,,pollen2 ,,or1 ,,food ,,for ,,infant ,,bees4 ,bees1 when fully grown1 feed almost wholly on honey2 but the larv require for their development a more substantial kind of nourishment4 ,such solid fare is found by the bees in the pollen of flowers1 a farina which contains some of those nitrogenous elements in which honey is deficient4 ,the body of a worker-bee is covered with hairs1 to which the pollen adheres when1 by contact with the bee1 it is rubbed from the anthers and stamens of flowers4 ,the bee with its fore legs then brushes it off1 and moulds it into the pellet shape suitable for carrying it in the baskets or grooves on its thighs4 ,dewy mornings or humid bowers suit the bees for the gathering of the pollen4 ,if the atmosphere be too dry for kneading it into pellets1 they roll themselves in the blossoms1 and trust to the good offices of the bees at home1 who1 on their return1 brush off the farina into the cells intended for it1 ,a portion of this bee bread is taken at once by the nursing bees1 which are supposed to subject it to some change before offering it to the larv2 but the greater part of the pollen is stored away1 and sealed over in the cells for future use4 ,in ,april and ,may the bees are frequently busy all the day in gathering pollen1 and often one community of bees will collect about twenty pounds weight of bee bread in one season4 ,one of the objects of the apiarian is to assist the bees in providing for the nurselings of the hive4 ,a ,german pastor1 ,heer ,dzierzon1 first suggested the plan of providing the bees with unbolted rye meal as a substitute for the farina of flowers4 ,he had observed that1 in early spring before the flowers were open1 his bees had entered a neighbouring corn mill1 from whence they returned laden with rye flour4 ,since his discovery1 most bee-keepers in early spring place either rye or wheat meal near the apiaries2 to this artificial store the bees repair by thousands1 and seem to rollick in the enjoyment of so much plenty1 many of them returning to the hive as dusty as millers4 ,the object in thus supplying them is1 that the brood may be rapidly brought forward and early swarming induced4 ,in this way1 a few pounds of rye meal at one penny per pound may tend to the production of very many pounds of honey of twelve times the price4 ,in gathering pollen from flowers1 bees are doing more than merely providing for their own community4 ,whilst humming through our gardens they are assisting to propagate our flowers1 and their merry buzz in our orchards indicates that the blossoms of spring will in autumn fulfil their promise by abundance of fruit4 ,in ,mr4 ,darwin's remarkable work1 ,the ,fertilization of ,orchids1 the mystery of the fructification of flowers is scientifically explained2 but before the subject was so fully understood1 it was quite believed that bees in passing from flower to flower performed some important service4 ,owners of fruit trees have noticed1 in a season generally unfavourable for the orchard1 that if during only one fine forenoon the bees had spread freely amongst the blossoms of a particular tree1 that it would prove more fruitful than its fellows4 ,on this account the orchard is a good place for an apiary1 for it seems--more abundant the honey1 more plentiful will be the fruit4 ,bees bear the fructifying matter from one sex of flowers to the other1 but they confine their attention to one kind of flower during each excursion3 and the careful observer may see how the colour of the pollen on the bodies of the bees will vary from yellow to red and brown1 according to the kind of flowers from which it has been gathered4 ,the gathering of pollen1 its use by the nursing bees1 and the storing of it in the cells1 afford to the bee-keeper opportunity for observations of exceeding interest4 ,,propolis2 ,,or1 ,,bees' ,,cement4 ,the old notion that wax is gathered by bees from flowers as they gather honey1 has long since been set aside by the discoveries of ,hornbostel and ,huber4 ,wax is an oily substance secreted from the honey in the bodies of the bees1 on which it forms in thin flakes4 ,but there is a resinous substance1 very tenacious and semi-transparent1 which is indispensable for the bees as a cement wherewith to fix their combs and fortify their hives against intruders1 and this is propolis4 ,the bees1 in working the propolis1 often soften it by blending it with a portion of wax2 but they have to extract it in its natural state directly from the bark and buds of certain trees4 ,the bark of the willow1 the leaf buds of the poplar and alder1 and the unopened blossoms of the hollyhock1 are very usual sources of propolis4 ,in the case of a new swarm1 as bees must have this glue before they can begin to build their combs1 they will resort to most unlikely places to obtain it4 ,sometimes they will enter a paint shop and attack the varnish1 and it is said they have been seen to obtain propolis from the pitch and rigging of a ship4 ,these circumstances afford intelligible hints to the apiarian1 who1 if his bees have not easy access to firs1 poplars1 or willows1 will provide some glutinous or resinous matter which may serve for a substitute4 ,the extracting of the propolis costs the bees very considerable labour1 which they should be relieved of as much as possible1 in order to facilitate their great work of honey gathering4 ,bees choose the warmer part of the day during which to gather propolis1 as then it does not so rapidly stiffen4 ,frequently when they arrive at the hive it has become so hard that the other bees are scarcely able to gnaw it from their thighs4 ,with propolis bees fasten down their hives1 stop up crevices to exclude moths and ants1 and sometimes use it to narrow the entrance of their hive against the invasion of wasps4 ,extraordinary anecdotes are told of the prompt and ingenious use they make of this substance4 ,reaumur relates that a snail having been observed by the bees on the window of the hive1 they proceeded to glue the shell to the glass1 and there sealed down the intruder in hopeless durance4 ,in another case1 that of a slug1 or snail without a shell1 the bees having slain it with their stings1 were quite unable to remove it from the hive4 ,with wonderful foresight1 they then proceeded to secure their community from the noxious effects likely to arise from the decay of the carcase2 and this they did by completely enveloping it with a coating of impervious varnish4 ,huish relates a similar occurrence in the case of a mouse caught in a hive by bees4 ,propolis yields benzoic acid1 and contains some aromatic properties4 ,,pasturage ,,for ,,bees4 ,bees work for man2 and yet they never bruise ,their master's flower1 but leave it1 having done1 ,as fair as ever1 and as fit for use ,apiarians generally agree in the opinion that very little can be done in the way of providing any special forage for bees4 ,yet bee-fanciers are always interested in observing which the flowers are that the bees prefer2 and there are certain well established conclusions as to the kind of district and season which are the likeliest to produce a good honey harvest4 ,there is an old saying that a country which produces the finest wool also yields the best honey2 and a pastoral district is decidedly better than one under tillage4 ,the principle of the matter is1 that the bees are best suited with a long dry season--an early spring1 a hot summer1 and a late autumn4 ,as not one of these blessings can be commanded by the apiarian1 his art must be applied to provide some mitigation of the injury suffered by the bees when the season is short or wet4 ,for early spring1 the crocus1 the blue hepatica1 and the violet1 all afford good supplies of honey1 and if cultivated near the apiary1 will be of great service when the wild flowers are backward4 ,all varieties of the willow and poplar furnish early supplies of honey1 as well as of the propolis of which we have spoken2 the blossoms of the gooseberry and currant are very useful for the bees in ,may4 ,wet1 when it enters flowers of any kind1 prevents the proboscis of the bee from reaching the secret source of honey4 ,on this account1 it is well to know1 as does the bee1 that the drooping blossoms of the raspberry escape the effect of the showers1 and honey is gathered from them when other flowers are drenched within as well as without4 ,for a similar reason1 the borage 7borago officinalis7 is valuable for bees2 and1 also1 because that plant continues to flower until the frosts set in4 ,the honey both from raspberry blossoms and borage is very superior4 ,mr4 ,langstroth says that the precipitous and rocky lands of ,new ,england1 which abound with the wild red raspberry1 might be made almost as valuable as some of the vine-clad terraces of the mountain districts of ,europe4 ,the golden rod1 and also asters1 afford superior honey for autumn gathering4 ,dzierzon strongly recommends buck-wheat being sown in the winter stubbles on behalf of the bees1 and he tries hard to persuade farmers that it is to their interest to cultivate it4 ,it should be named that all the ordinary fruit blossoms1 especially those of the apple1 supply abundant store for bees4 ,it is1 however1 to wild or field flowers that the bee-master must chiefly look for the raw material on which his myriad artisans shall exert their skill4 ,the white clover of the pasture--the wild thyme on the hill--the heather on the moors--the furze and the broom on the sandy waste--offer exhaustless stores for a greater number of bees than can ever be located near them4 ,there are also two or three peculiar sources of honey which one would not have suspected1 as1 for instance the blossoms of the onion plant1 of turnips1 and in still greater degree1 the flower of the mustard plant4 ,in those districts of ,england where mustard seed is cultivated so extensively1 it would be well worth while for the farmers to keep large colonies of bees4 ,another1 but a very uncertain source of honey1 is the honey-dew1 which in some seasons appears in large quantities on the leaves of the oak1 the lime1 and some other trees4 ,it is important to mention that bees in the principal breeding season require a plentiful supply of water4 ,owing either to their carelessness or eagerness1 they are frequently drowned when drinking from any large quantity of water2 the bee-keeper should1 therefore1 place near the hives shallow vessels of water containing pebbles1 on which the bees may alight to take frequent but temperate draughts4 ,,the ,,ligurian ,,or ,,italian ,,alp-,,bee4 ,a new1 or rather a re-discovered1 variety of bee has recently been brought into practical use amongst apiarians in ,germany and ,america1 as well as in this country4 ,the ordinary bee is the ,apis ,mellifica of naturalists2 the new kind is the ,apis ,ligustica4 ,it was also named ,the ,ligurian ,bee by the ,marquis de ,spinola1 who found it in ,piedmont in #ahje2 and he considered it to be the principal species known to the ,greeks1 who speak of the best kind of bee as being of a red colour4 ,leading apiarians agree in pronouncing these bees to be justly entitled to the high character given to them4 ,their special advantages are--greater fecundity of the queens1 less irascibility1 and a more handsome appearance1 for being of a golden colour1 they are prettier than our black bees4 ,our own experience with the ,italian ,alp-bee enables us to corroborate the statements which have been made in favour of this new variety4 ,we find the queens more prolific than those of the common kind1 and the quantity of honey produced is greater4 ,these two facts stand as cause and effect2 the bees being multiplied more quickly1 the store of honey is accumulated more rapidly1 and the ,italian bees consume1 if anything1 less food than the common kind4 ,when of pure ,italian blood1 these bees are by some apiarians thought to be hardier than our own4 ,that they forage for stores with greater eagerness1 and have little hesitation in paying visits to other hives1 we can testify from our own observation4 ,the following anecdote will illustrate their intrusive propensities4 ,another bee-keeper living in the neighbourhood of our apiary1 when inspecting our hives1 observed the yellow bees2 he exclaimed1 ,now ,i have found out where those strange-looking bees come from2 for1 said he1 these yellow-jackets are incessant visitors to my hives4 ,i thought they were a species of wasps that had come to rob1 and until now ,i have been unable to account for their appearance at the entrance of my hive1 so that ,i have killed them by hundreds4 ,this was not at all pleasing intelligence for us1 and we trust that our neighbour has been more lenient to the yellow-jackets since his visit4 ,we are inclined to believe that more visiting takes place amongst bees of different hives than bee-keepers have been accustomed to suppose2 where the ,italian and black bees are kept near each other1 the foreigners being conspicuous by their lighter colour1 there is less difficulty in identifying them when at the entrances of other hives4 ,this season 7#ahfd7 we have had more honey from a ,ligurian stock than from any one of our colonies of black bees4 ,from this ,ligurian hive we have taken a glass super containing #dj lbs4 nett of honey1 besides having drawn from it an artificial swarm2 and1 after all1 it remains the strongest hive in our apiary4 ,the ,baron ,von ,berlepsch and ,pastor ,dzierzon1 who are probably the two most intelligent and skilful bee-keepers of ,germany1 award to the ,italian a very decided preference over the common bees4 ,the ,baron says that he has found3--#a4 ,that the ,italian bees are less sensitive to cold than the common kind4 #b4 ,that their queens are more prolific4 #c4 ,that the colonies swarm earlier and more frequently4 #d4 ,that they are less apt to sting4 #e4 ,they are more industrious4 #f4 ,that they are more disposed to rob than common bees1 and more courageous and active in self defence4 ,they strive1 whenever opportunity offers1 to force their way into colonies of common bees2 but when strange bees attack their hives1 they fight with great fierceness1 and with incredible adroitness4 ,it is said1 that the ,italian bee can extract honey from some flowers which the common bee is unable to penetrate4 ,for instance1 the blossom tubes of the red clover being too deep for the proboscis of the common bee1 that flower is useless to them1 although so plentiful2 but1 says ,mr4 ,langstroth1 the ,american apiarian1 the ,italian bee visits the red clover assiduously1 and draws large quantities of honey from it4#g ,footnote #g3 ,this opinion is not held by the closest observer of ,italian bees in ,england4 ,the introduction of this new variety of bee into ,england was through our agency4 ,m4 ,hermann1 a bee cultivator at ,tamins-by-,chur1 ,canton ,grison1 ,switzerland1 wrote to us on the #eth ,july1 #ahei1 offering to supply us with ,italian ,alp queen bees4 ,this letter1 or an extract from it1 appeared in the current number of the ,journal of ,horticulture1 7then called the ,cottage ,gardener17 a periodical that regularly opens its columns to apiarian subjects4 ,prior to this the ,italian ,alp1 or as it has been named the ,ligurian bee1 was unknown in this country1 except to a few naturalists4 ,the letter referred to attracted the attention of that intelligent apiarian ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 ,esq41 now so well known as the ,devonshire ,bee-keeper4 ,on the #aith of ,july1 that is a fortnight after ,mr4 ,hermann's offer1 we received a consignment of ,italian ,alp bees1 being the first imported into ,england1 with these1 ,mr4 ,woodbury also received one queen-bee and a few workers1 which he introduced into a hive of ,english bees from which the queen had been taken4 ,his efforts were very successful1 and the spring of #ahfj found him in possession of four ,ligurianized stocks4 ,his subsequent experience with the ,italian ,alp bee he has fully described in a communication to ,the ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,journal4 ,subsequently ,mr4 ,hermann sent us a copy of his pamphlet entitled ,the ,italian ,alp ,bee2 or1 the ,gold ,mine of ,husbandry1 with the request that we should have it translated from the ,german1 and that copies of it should be printed in the ,english language4 ,the pamphlet was speedily published by us1 and although singular as a literary production1 it may be useful for the advanced apiarian4 ,certainly the bees are partially of an orange or golden colour1 and if one could believe the golden anticipations indulged in by ,mr4 ,hermann respecting them1 it would be sufficient to identify the ,italian ,alp bee as the species described by ,hood in ,miss ,kilmansegg2--those which dwelt in ,a golden hive1 on a golden bank1 ,where golden bees1 by alchemical prank1 ,gather gold instead of honey4 ,poor ,hermann himself did not profit by the discovery of the mine4 ,his enthusiasm for the culture of the ,alpine bee instead of wafting him to ,el ,dorado appears to have driven him to the prosaic retreat of a debtor's prison4 ,by the latest accounts we learn that--his ardent spirit chafing against his incarceration1--he had made an attempt to escape1 and in doing so1 fell from the prison walls and broke both legs4 ,we understand that he has since died4 ,in the pamphlet referred to1 ,mr4 ,hermann gives the following description of what he insists on designating as ,apis ,helvetica3-- ,the yellow ,italian ,alp-bee is a mountain insect2 it is found between two mountain chains to the right and left of ,lombardy and the ,rhetian ,alps1 and comprises the whole territory of ,tessins1 ,veltlin1 and ,south-,graubunden4 ,it thrives up to the height of #d1ejj feet above the level of the sea1 and appears to prefer the northern clime to the warmer1 for in the south of ,italy it is not found4 ,the ,alps are their native country1 therefore they are called ,yellow ,alp-bee1 or tame house bees1 in contra distinction to the black ,european bees1 whom we might call common forest bees1 and who1 on the slightest touch1 fly like lightning into your face4787 ,as all good and noble things in the world are more scarce than common ones1 so there are more common black bees than of the noble yellow race1 which latter inhabit only a very small piece of country1 while the black ones are at home everywhere in ,europe1 and even in ,america4 ,notwithstanding the death of ,m4 ,hermann1 we shall in future be able to supply all bee-keepers1 who may wish to possess stocks of the genuine yellow ,alpine bees4 ,the ,italian varies but little from the common bees in its physical characteristics4 ,the difference in appearance consists in the first rings of the abdomen1 except the posterior edge1 and the base of the third--being of an orange colour instead of a deep brown4 ,these orange coloured parts are transparent when closely examined with the sun shining on them4 ,the ,italian bees are more active than common bees when on the wing4 ,during the summers of #ahei and #ahfj we had over from the ,continent a great number of ,ligurian queens2 these were sent to all parts of the kingdom4 ,we regret to say that but few were successfully united to ,english stocks4 ,it requires a considerable amount of apiarian skill to accomplish the union1 so that we find by experience it is best to send out complete ,ligurian stocks4 ,this is particularly desirable now that the packing of whole hives is so easily accomplished by us with the aid of bars and frames4 ,we have sent a great number of stocks to all parts by rail4 ,mr4 ,woodbury1 owing to his knowledge and skill in bee-keeping1 was eminently successful in propagating the ,ligurian bees first imported into this country2 and we would recommend all who may be interested in the subject1 to peruse the interesting articles written by him in the ,journal of ,horticulture4 ,he has shown great patience and energy by his labours in the rearing of queens and the multiplication of stocks1 for which he merits all praise4 ,on the other hand1 ,mr4 ,woodbury has to thank the ,ligurian bees for the development of his own skill1 for although prior to this he was a valued correspondent to the before named ,journal1 his commencement of scientific bee-keeping must be dated from the time of their introduction4 ,we now add to the other testimonies already cited1 that of ,mr4 ,woodbury as to the superior qualities of the ,ligurian bees4 ,the following is extracted from a paper contributed by him to the ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,journal3--,from my strongest ,ligurian stock ,i took eight artificial swarms in the spring1 besides depriving it of numerous brood-combs4 ,finding in ,june that the bees were collecting honey so fast that the queen could not find an empty cell in which to lay an egg1 ,i was reluctantly compelled to put on a super4 ,when this had been filled with4 #hh lbs4 of the finest honey-comb1#h ,i removed it1 and as the stock-hive 7a very large one7 could not contain the multitude of bees which issued from it1 ,i formed them into another very large artificial swarm4 ,the foregoing facts speak for themselves2 but as information on this point has been very generally asked1 ,i have no hesitation in saying that ,i believe the ,ligurian honey-bee infinitely superior in every respect to the only species that we have hitherto been acquainted with4 ,footnote #h3 ,this super was exhibited at our stand in the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb4 ,after such decided testimony as this1 corroborated1 as it is1 by many other observers1 there seems every reason to expect that the ,ligurian bee will gradually supersede the common kind throughout the ,united ,kingdom4 ,,living ,,bees ,,at ,,the ,,international ,,exhibition ,,of #ahfb1 ,,sending ,,bees ,,to ,,australia1 c4 ,illustration ,the engraving represents our stand in the ,agricultural ,department of the ,international ,exhibition of #ahfb4 ,the space granted us in the ,world's great ,fair was somewhat limited2 but we were able to exhibit a tolerably complete stock of apiarian apparatus and all the more important bee-hives4 ,amongst these was a ,unicomb ,hive stocked with the ,yellow ,alpine or ,ligurian bee4 ,this was an object of great attention1 and daily hundreds of visitors flocked round our stand in order to watch the movements of the ,italian queen with her gay and busy subjects4 ,the entrance way for the bees being in the ,open ,court1 to which all visitors had access1 it was necessary to place the hive in an elevated position1 so as for it to be beyond the reach of incautious passers by1 and to obviate any chance of annoyance to the vast crowds of people continually around4 ,among others who took a deep interest in our exhibition1 was ,mr4 ,edward ,wilson1 ,president of the ,acclimatisation ,society of ,victoria4 ,this gentleman requested us to pack four stocks of the ,ligurian bees for conveyance to ,melbourne4 ,with the assistance of ,mr4 ,woodbury--whose aid was1 indeed1 essential--these stocks were sent off on the #beth of ,september1 #ahfb1 by the steam ship ,alhambra1 so as to arrive at the colony during the ,austral summer4 ,the hives were ,woodbury-frame hives1 having ample space and ventilation1 as well as the means of supplying water to their inmates during the voyage2 there was1 also1 a sufficient store of honey to last until the following ,march4 ,the bees arrived at ,melbourne1 where they were released after an imprisonment of seventy nine days1 and have since rapidly multiplied1 the climate and pasturage of ,australia greatly favouring the increase of this superior variety of the bee4 ,mr4 ,wilson was so well pleased with the careful manner in which these stocks were fitted out for their voyage across the seas1 that he subsequently instructed us to prepare him three more hives1 which were sent out in a sailing vessel4 ,owing to the mismanagement of the water supply during the voyage1 only one stock survived in this instance4 ,upwards of twenty years ago1 we sent a ,nutt's ,hive stocked with bees to ,new ,zealand4 ,we then adopted the plan of fixing the hive in a meat safe1 so that the bees could fly about a little1 and also cleanse the hive of their dead1 for bees are very attentive to sanitary arrangements2 they always remove the dead ones from their midst1 and do not void excrement within the hive4 ,when bees are shut up in their hives too long1 they are apt to be attacked by a disease called by apiarians--dysentery4 ,sometimes when confined by the unfavourableness of the weather in winter or the lateness of spring1 this disease produces serious mischief amongst the bees4 ,various remedies have been recommended2 but we believe the best is to see that there is wholesome food within the hive1 and plenty of it1 and when fine weather returns1 the health of the bees will return with it4 ,dampness of the hives1 and too late feeding in the autumn1 are also frequent causes of this disease4 ,,bee-,,keeping ,,in ,,london4 ,there are many persons now in this noisy city pent1 who frequently remember the days of childhood when1 among pastures of clover or amidst flowery heath and woodlands1 they listened to the cheerful hum of bees4 ,partly from a desire to revive those old associations1 and also from a natural liking for the tendance of living creatures1 such persons would be glad to keep bees if they thought it possible to do so in ,london or its suburbs with any chance of success4 ,we do not wonder that many should doubt even the possibility of bees feeding themselves amidst such an endless meal of brick2 but we can easily prove that bees1 if not placed too near to smoky chimneys1 are able to produce honey1 both for themselves and for their masters4 ,to make this plain1 we will mention some special instances of metropolitan bee-keeping4 ,about ninety years ago1 a ,mr4 ,wildman kept a bee-house and honey warehouse near to ,middle ,row1 ,holborn4 ,he was not only a tradesman1 but was also the apiarian of his day4 ,he kept hives of thriving bees on the roof of his house in ,holborn1 and many of the nobility and gentry used to mount thither in order to inspect the apiary4 ,at that period1 ,st4 ,pancras was a village two miles north-west of ,london1 and what is now the ,regent's ,park was open country4 ,it was then much easier for ,london bees to find their favourite forage1 but ,mr4 ,wildman believed that his hives were filled with stores from a considerable distance4 ,whilst enjoying his country rambles on ,hampstead ,heath1 he had a shrewd suspicion that many of the bees he there observed gathering honey were ,labourers from his own apiary4 ,in order to identify his own flock amongst the rest1 he hit upon a homely but very effective expedient4 ,having borrowed ,mrs4 ,wildman's dredging box1 he stationed himself near the entrance of his hives1 and gently dusted his bees with flour as they issued forth4 ,he then betook himself to ,hampstead1 where he found his previous surmise confirmed1 for there were numbers of his bees in their livery of white4 ,wildman became noted for the remarkable control he obtained over his bees1 many instances of which he exhibited before the public4 ,many of his operations with them were regarded as feats of legerdemain by the uninitiated1 as when he appeared before the king ,george ,,iii4 with a swarm of bees hanging in festoons from his chin1 or suspended in a cluster at arm's length4 ,the ,journal of ,horticulture recently1 in alluding to ,wildman1 gives the following particulars as to his performances3-- ,near the ,three ,hats1 ,islington1 was a place of popular entertainment called ,dobney's ,tea ,gardens1 kept by ,mrs4 ,ann ,dobney4 ,these gardens occupied the ground between ,white ,lion ,street and ,winchester ,place1 and were established as far back as #agbh4 ,in #agga the house was taken for a short time as a boarding school2 but it was soon changed to its original purpose as a place of amusement1 for in #aggb ,daniel ,wildman exhibited bees here4 ,this is a copy of the advertisement3-- ,june #bj1 #aggb4 ,exhibition of bees on horseback6 at the ,jubilee ,gardens1 ,islington1 7late ,dobney's71 this and every evening until further notice 7wet evenings excepted47 ,the celebrated ,daniel ,wildman will exhibit several new and amazing experiments1 never attempted by any man in this or any other kingdom before4 ,the rider standing upright1 one foot on the saddle and one on the neck1 with a mask of bees on his head and face4 ,he also rides standing upright on the saddle with the bridle in his mouth1 and by firing a pistol1 makes one part of the bees march over the table1 and the other swarm in the air and return to their hive again1 with other performances too tedious to insert4 ,the doors open at six2 to begin at a quarter before seven4 ,admittance3--,box and gallery1 #bs42 the other seats4 #as4 ,the secret of ,wildman's skilful manipulation is well understood now2 it consisted in a careful holding and disposal of the queen1 together with confidence in the generally inoffensive disposition of bees4 ,dr4 ,evans1 whom we have often quoted for his correct information in apiarian matters1 thus speaks of his feats3-- ,such was the spell which1 round a ,wildman's arm4 ,twined in dark wreaths the fascinated swarm2 ,bright o'er his breast the glittering legions led4 ,or with a living garland bound his head4 ,his dextrous hand1 with firm yet hurtless hold1 ,could seize the chief1 known by her scales of gold1 ,prune1 'mid the wondering train1 her filmy wing4 ,or o'er her folds the silken fetter fling4 ,to recur to our subject4 ,after the days of ,wildman1 our own establishment in ,holborn became widely known for bee hives and honey4 ,although we never attempted to start a ,london apiary at all approaching in extent that of our predecessor1 we have occasionally kept bees on the house top both in ,holborn and ,regent ,street4 ,at both those situations1 we have noticed that the bees bring pollen as well as honey into their hives4 ,last summer there was brought under our notice an illustration of the acuteness of the scent of bees1 and of their diligent search for food1 proving too that if sweets can be obtained even from unusual sources1 the bees will find them out4 ,a poor woman who1 at the corner of an adjacent street vends brandy balls1 toffee1 rock1 and other saccharine compounds--all well known to and appreciated by most juveniles1--used to receive frequent visits from our bees4 ,their visits to the old dame's domain were at first rather interesting1 and if the few pioneers who had the sagacity to find such a store had kept the secret only to themselves1 their company would not have been objected to4 ,such selfish policy does not1 however1 accord with the social instinct of bees1 and these soon informed their companions of the good fortune provided for them in an archipelago of sugar islands4 ,day by day the swarms of these uninvited visitors increased1 until all legitimate customers were beaten off2 and the old dame had to see1 not only her hope of gain destroyed1 but her stock of goodies sensibly diminishing by the thefts of these brigands of the air4 ,she could not1 or dare not attempt to1 drive the intruders away1 so made diligent enquiry as to where the robbers were harboured4 ,having traced them to our establishment in ,regent ,street1 she came to implore of us to move the bees if possible1 or she would have to move her stall1 and so lose her connection in the toffee and rock trade4 ,wishing not to hinder the poor woman in gaining her livelihood1 we decided on removing our bees into the country4 ,it is difficult to assign an exact limit to the distance that bees will go in search of honey yielding blossoms4 ,it has been proved by various experiments that they will fly say five or six miles1 if the supplies are scanty within a shorter radius2 but bees well understand that first of all economies1--the saving of time1 and if they can find forage near at hand1 they prefer it4 ,hence1 other things being equal1 the quantity of honey stored will be in proportion to the contiguity of good pasturage4 ,in this way it is that the systematic removal of hives1 as practiced in many districts1 has such a notable effect on the honey harvest4 ,during several years we kept bees in the ,zoological ,gardens1 ,regent's ,park1 and have there frequently taken full and handsome glasses of honey4 ,the position of our apiary was on the site now occupied by the ,new ,monkey ,house4 ,the ,society promise to erect a new building for an apiary in the course of the ensuing summer4 ,the visitors to the ,gardens found considerable interest in watching the bees in our glass hives1 and are now much disappointed at the absence of so entertaining an exhibition4 ,a gentleman residing in ,st4 ,james's ,place1 has for some considerable time past kept bees in his garden there4 ,he uses our improved cottage hives1 and his bee-keeping is decidedly successful as he generally takes some fine glasses of honey each season1 besides leaving sufficient as winter store for the bees4 ,for a ,london situation1 ,st4 ,james's ,place is a very favourable one2 the gardens behind the houses pleasantly face the ,green ,park1 so that the bees have an uninterrupted flight to start with4 ,they are also within easy range of the richly flowered gardens of ,buckingham ,palace and those of the nobility and gentry who reside around the ,parks4 ,to those gardens the bees of ,st4 ,james's ,place resort1 without waiting for any license or certificate from the royal and noble owners of the honey yielding preserves4 ,being within a short distance of our establishment1 when this gentleman's bees swarm he generally sends to us for assistance in hiving them4 ,the neighbourhood of ,st4 ,john's ,wood1 and indeed almost all the suburbs of ,london1 are favourable for the production of honey4 ,we mention ,st4 ,john's ,wood because1 from the fact of having kept bees there ourselves1 we are able to prove by our experience that they do well in that locality4 ,we have several customers on nearly all sides of the town1 who have each had this year a considerable surplus of honey in their supers1 after leaving sufficient for the bees themselves in the lower or stock hives4 ,we exhibited in our window last autumn a super of fine honey from the apiary of ,shirley ,hibberd1 ,esq41 the proprietor and editor of the ,gardiner's ,weekly ,magazine4 ,it is a box containing #bj lbs4 nett weight of honey1 and was produced at ,stoke ,newington1 only #c miles from the ,general ,post ,office4 ,the ,times ,bee-,master1 whose letters from ,tunbridge ,wells have awakened so much interest in this pleasing pursuit1 also commissioned us to exhibit a super1 produced under his own management in that locality4 ,a friend of ours at ,exeter had upwards of #djj lbs4 of honey1 of excellent quality1 though one of his apiaries is quite within the city4 ,the last has been an excellent honey yielding season2 our own bees1 at ,dorking1 in ,surrey1 have produced us large quantities1 and the accounts from nearly all parts of the country coincide in stating that the bees have in the year1 #ahfd1 enjoyed unusual opportunities for accumulation4 ,in not a few localities1 the season of #ahfc was even more abundant4 ,,wasps ,,and ,,moths4 ,bees have few enemies more formidable than wasps4 ,the most effectual method of checking their invasion of hives1 is to have as narrow an entrance as the bees can do with4 ,if a stock be not very weak in numbers1 the bees will be well able to guard a small aperture1 and can repel the attacks of those insidious and merciless robbers4 ,on this account1 the entrance to our ,no4 #e hive as described at page #ca1 may be used4 ,the bee-keeper is interested in preventing the increase of wasps2 it is1 therefore1 a good practice for him to set a price on queen wasps in the spring1 the death of one of them at that time being equivalent to the destruction of a whole nest4 ,should nests be found in the neighbourhood of an apiary1 their annihilation must be accomplished either by blowing them up with gunpowder1 an operation well understood by most country lads2 or any other effectual method4 ,the late ,mr4 ,payne recommended that a small quantity of gas tar should be put into the mouth of a wasp's nest1 and if then covered with earth1 the total destruction of the wasps will be accomplished without further trouble4 ,but to use blazing straw for the purpose is always dangerous in country districts4 ,we have lately heard of a very ingenious and successful mode of entrapping and killing wasps4 ,place some sugar or strongly sweetened compound on the ground in a garden1 and place over it a square hand glass1 wedged up an inch or so all round4 ,on this glass1 which should have an opening at the apex1 lodge another1 but a sound one4 ,the wasps1 attracted by the sweets1 will soon crowd under the lower glass1 and when they have well feasted1 will ascend into the upper one2 there1 between the two1 they soon become scorched and perish by the heat of the sun shining on the outer glass4 ,the season of #ahfd was most productive for the increase of these prime pests of the apiary1 and many hives have severely suffered by their depredations4 ,when once wasps in any number have gained an entrance into a hive1 the bees can seldom eject them1 and the invaders generally remain until they have freely regaled themselves from the luscious store4 ,they not only consume the honey1 but cause a good deal of worry to the legitimate inhabitants of the hive1 as well as killing the foremost defenders of it4 ,wasps being of so much superior strength1 it requires1 at least1 three bees to master one of them4 ,having suffered loss in our own apiary from the attacks of wasps1 we feel it desirable to give a detailed account of our own troubles from that cause4 ,one of our ,ligurian stocks was besieged and worried by wasps to such an extent1 that the bees deserted it on the #eth of ,september1 7#ahfd74 ,fortunately1 the bees chose a time for their departure just as we visited the apiary4 ,an unusual turmoil was heard in the hive1 such as is experienced at the time of swarming1 and on immediately examining the entrance1 we observed that the bees were quitting in tumultuous haste4 ,the usual methods that induce bees to settle were tried--amongst others1 that of throwing sand up into the air1 so as it should fall down amongst the bees on the wing2 but they were dispersed in disorder1 and their flight extended over three adjacent gardens4 ,we only discovered the clustered bees by diligent search1 as the sequel will show4 ,permission being asked of our next door neighbour1 we searched his garden to see if our bees had alighted there2 but found that they had passed over4 ,making a similar application to the owner of the garden adjoining1 we entered1 having a straw hive in hand1 but no bees were there4 ,after looking diligently all round1 and climbing the wall1 thereby gaining a view of the third garden1 we perceived in it unmistakable signs of an unwonted commotion4 ,the occupiers of the house were intently looking at a particular part of the garden1 and there was a dustpan and a key1 with which the master had been tanging the bees to induce them to settle4 ,we quickly made for the proper entrance to the garden1 and soon discovered our little wanderers clustered to a large flower vase4 ,our neighbours1 however1 were sadly disappointed of their prize1 for the gardener had hastily been dispatched into the town to purchase a hive for the welcome colonists4 ,in depriving our neighbours of so unexpected and cheaply acquired a treasure1 we could sympathise with their regret1 having been much disheartened half-an-hour before at our own loss2 but1 of course1 we could do no other than claim our own bees4 ,we gladly agreed to defray the expense of the straw hive that had been purchased for the sake of our truant swarm4 ,after brushing the bees into the hive1 and leaving it propped up with a stick1 in order that the stray ones might join1 we returned home for an hour or so1 to give them time to settle4 ,judge of our vexation when on returning to fetch the hive home1 we found that the refractory creatures had again taken flight1 and that all the work was to do over again4 ,the wasps were not to blame for this second flight of the ,ligurians2 we judged that the swarm had been disturbed by visits from a colony of bees that we discovered were living the life of outlaws under the roof of an adjoining house4 ,although much disheartened and perplexed1 we at once renewed our search1 and1 upon enquiry1 found that the missing bees had taken a southerly course across the turnpike road1 and it was therefore necessary to ask permission to search the gardens of the houses opposite4 ,from one of these we observed1 on looking through the hedge1 that the inhabitants of the next house were on the qui vive4 ,on enquiring whether they had seen a colony of bees1 the wary old dame replied that she had no bees but her own1 and added that they were very much excited4 ,having asked permission to go through the hedge to look at her bees1 we soon discovered our ,ligurians on the top of the old lady's bee-house4 ,there was no difficulty in identifying our own bees2 their yellow rings were as good as a private mark4 ,quickly hiving the swarm1 we took them home1 and replaced them in the hive they had quitted4 ,it was almost destitute of honey2 but by liberal feeding1 and lessening the entrance so that only one bee at a time could find ingress or egress1 we succeeded in inducing them to rest in their old home4 ,thus nearly half a day's exertion was needed to save a fine colony1 which would otherwise have been utterly lost by the power of the relentless wasps4 ,much watchfulness is needed to prevent the loss of swarms1 and the foregoing incident may serve to suggest the necessity of having hives so located as to be constantly within view1 either from the dining room1 or of those whose duties oblige them to be near the apiary4 ,if we had not happened to be at hand at the moment this colony started1 it would have been irretrievably lost to us4 ,many swarms and colonies are lost simply because the departure takes place without any one witnessing it4 ,let us hope that runaway bees may always fall into the hands of those who are as capable of taking care of them as our neighbours appeared to be on the occasion we have described4 ,another formidable enemy of bees are the moths4 ,these insects are creatures of the night1 as the bees of the day1 and they make their way into the hives under cover of darkness1 in spite of the bee-sentinels4 ,they deposit their eggs in any crevices in or near the hive that they can find4 ,there the warmth of the hive or of the sheltered situation1 causes the eggs speedily to hatch1 and then the maggots soon work their way to the comb and larv food1 which they greedily devour1 thereby often bringing about the gradual but certain destruction of the whole community of bees4 ,the best way of keeping moths outside the hives is to lessen the entrance1 as before alluded to4 ,also1 in the early spring1 the hives should be lifted from their floorboards1 which must then be made thoroughly clean1 and all crevices and corners about the hive and stand should be scraped1 so as to get rid of all eggs of moths and other insects before the warm weather hatches them or enables them to do mischief4 ,the bee-moth is not so troublesome in ,england as it is in ,america and some parts of ,germany2 but still its encroachments should be carefully guarded against in this country1 for if not1 it may easily increase to a very serious extent4 ,,draining ,,honey ,,from ,,the ,,combs4 ,those of our readers who prefer eating run honey to honey in the comb1 may be glad of some instruction as to the best way of separating the two4 ,for this purpose1 it is better to let the honey run without squeezing1 in order to preserve both its transparency and flavour4 ,take a sharp knife1 and slice the combs on both sides1 keeping the knife parallel with the partition wall1 so that every cell may be laid open4 ,place these broken combs in a sieve1 or on a piece of muslin stretched across and tied round the opening of a pan or large mouthed jar4 ,allow the honey to flow out of the combs spontaneously1 and reserve the squeezing process for a separate jar1 so that the honey of the first drained jar may be perfectly pure1 both in appearance and flavour4 ,that which has pressure put on it will be waxy in flavour and thick4 ,some persons recommend that the opened combs be placed in the sun1 as the heat will cause the honey to run more freely4 ,the great disadvantage of this is1 the temptation the honey will offer to bees1 who will be eager to gain a share4 ,honey whilst in the combs keeps remarkably well when left in the supers2 if cut out1 the combs should be folded in writing paper and sealed up1 so as effectually to prevent free entrance of air2 they should then be placed in a warm dry closet4 ,honey1 like most vegetable products1 should be fresh every year4 ,it may easily be kept from one season to another2 but when kept beyond that time1 unless very carefully stored in a warm temperature1 it will crystallize in the comb1 and it is liable to ferment when in jars separated from the comb4 ,,general ,,remarks4 ,every bee-keeper should be a book-keeper2 that is1 so far as to have a permanent record of the events of the apiary and the fortunes of his bees4 ,a book similar to a tradesman's journal would be very suitable for the purpose4 ,in it he should note down the date of the first swarm of the season especially1 and those of the other swarms also2 and in autumn1 the quantity of honey taken from each hive should be entered1 with remarks on the probable size of the various stocks4 ,these particulars will not only be interesting for the bee-keeper to turn to in winter1 but will be of practical service in enabling him to know the exact age and probable strength of each stock4 ,the bee-book may also be contrived to show the total amount of honey that the bees have produced for their owner1 and the net money profit of the apiary4 ,a simple and clear account ,like this--provided1 by the bye1 that it does show a satisfactory balance--will be very useful for inducing cottagers and farm labourers to start bee-keeping4 ,nothing like ocular demonstration for this class4 ,the humane apiarian will reason with them in vain until he shows them a monster skep of honey1 and mentions the price that it will fetch in the market4 ,when convinced that the depriving system will pay1 the cottager will gladly adopt it4 ,a writer in the ,quarterly ,review gives the following good advice3--,don't bore the cottager with long lectures2 don't heap upon him many little books2 but give him a hive of the best construction1 show him the management1 and then buy his honey2 buy all he brings1 even though you should have to give the surplus to some gardenless widow4 ,but only buy such as comes from an improved hive--and you cannot easily be deceived in this1--one which preserves the bees and betters the honey4 ,then1 when you pay him1 you may read to him1 if you will1 the wise rules of old ,butler1 exempli gratia3-- ,if thou wilt have the favour of thy bees that they sting thee not1 thou must not be unchaste or uncleanly2 thou must not come among them with a stinking breath1 caused either through eating of leeks1 onions1 or garlic1 or by any other means1 the noisomeness whereof is corrected by a cup of beer2 thou must not be given to surfeiting or drunkenness2 thou must not come puffing or blowing unto them1 neither hastily stir among them1 nor violently defend thyself when they seem to threaten thee2 but1 softly moving by1 thy hand before thy face1 gently put them by2 and1 lastly1 thou must be no stranger to them4 ,in a word1 7or rather1 in five words17 be chaste1 sweet1 sober1 quiet1 familiar2 so they will love thee and know thee from all others4 ,allusion having been made to the profit that may be gained by the judicious management of bees1 we will illustrate that point by relating an anecdote of a certain ,french cur4#i ,it is one which may be suggestive to some of the rural clergy in this country1 who might almost as easily keep an apiary as they do a garden or an orchard4 ,footnote #i3 ,this story1 in a disguised form1 or--as the writer would say--an improved form1 was quoted in the ,cornhill ,magazine some time ago4 ,in transforming the bee-keeping cure into an ,english clergyman the effect was cleverly ,a good ,french bishop1 in paying his annual visit to his clergy1 was very much afflicted by the representations they made to him of their extreme poverty1 which indeed the appearance of their houses and families corroborated4 ,deploring the sad state of things which had reduced them to such a condition1 he arrived at the house of a curate who1 living amongst a poorer set of parishioners than any he had yet visited1 would1 he feared1 be in a still more woful plight than the rest4 ,contrary1 however1 to his expectations1 he found the appearance of this remote parsonage to be superior to those he had already visited4 ,everything about the house wore the aspect of comfort and plenty4 ,the good bishop was amazed4 ,how is this1 my friend1 said he1 you are the first pastor ,i have met with having a cheerful face and a plentiful board6 ,have you any income independent of your cure8 ,yes1 ,sire1 said the pastor1 ,i have3 my family would starve on the pittance ,i receive from the poor people that ,i instruct4 ,if you will walk into the garden1 ,i will show you the stock that yields me such excellent interest4 ,on going into the garden1 he showed the bishop a long range of bee-hives4 ,there1 said he1 is the bank from which ,i draw an annual dividend1 and it is one that never stops payment4 ,his harvest of honey enabled him almost to dispense with the use of sugar1 leaving him a considerable quantity of it for disposal in the market2 of the coarser portions he made a tolerable substitute for wine1 and the sale of his wax nearly paid his shoemaker's bill4 ,ever afterwards1 when any of the clergy complained to the bishop of poverty1 he would say to them ,keep bees6 keep bees6 ,in this succinct advice1 extending it to laity as well as clergy in rural districts1 we heartily join1 believing that in this country a ten times greater number of hives might be successfully kept than are now established4 ,in a very practical sense1 the oft repeated lines of ,gray are strictly true3-- ,full many a flower is born to blush unseen1 ,and waste its fragrance on the desert air4 enhanced1 especially as to the dismay of the decorous ,english prelate in hearing that his poor brother in the ,church had turned manufacturer2 but then the vraisemblance of the story1 as we have it1 was destroyed4 ,an apiary in the garden of every village clergyman would afford the means of economising this unclaimed bounty of ,providence4 ,bees may be very inexpensively and profitably kept in the ,cottager's hive 7see page #cd71 which will be found a very productive one4 ,it is true that it has not the appliances of windows and bell glasses2 for the cottager is not supposed so much to care for his hives as a source of amusement2 his object in bee-keeping is simply the profit it may bring4 ,for those of our readers who wish to have united the facility of observing the bees with that of the plentiful production of honey1 we would especially recommend the ,improved ,cottage hive1 described at page #bh4 ,if inclined to go to a little further expense1 the hives numbered #a1 #b1 #c1 and #g1 all afford constant opportunity for inspection of the bees1 and allow of their working freely in the most natural manner4 ,there are few hobbies which cost so little outlay as the keeping of bees4 ,once the plant of hives is purchased1 there is little1 if any1 additional expense1 and always a probability of a fair return4 ,if honey be obtainable1 the bees will find it2 they work for nothing1 and provide themselves with sustenance1 requiring only a very little labour from their keepers1 and that labour is of a pleasing and instructive kind4 ,to the advanced and skilful apiarian we would especially commend the use of the ,bar-and-frame hives4 ,with these1 as we have attempted to show1 the bee-keeper has a full command over his hives and bees4 ,many mistakes1 it is true1 have been made by uninitiated bee-keepers in using the more elaborate hives4 ,being struck with the remarkable facilities afforded by these superior hives for the extraction of any one comb1 and1 perhaps1 fascinated with their easy sway over so highly organized a community1 these new-fangled bee-keepers have acquired a habit of perpetually and incautiously meddling with the bees4 ,the inevitable results in such cases are distress to the bees1 impoverishment of the stocks1 and loss and vexation to the over zealous apiarian4 ,all these things may be avoided1 if it be remembered that there are first steps in bee-keeping1 as well as in croquet1 chemistry1 or cricket4 ,in bee-keeping1 as in floriculture it is a great point to know when to let well alone4 ,there is no florist1 however anxious for a prize1 who would be continually pulling up his plants to see how their roots were growing4 ,doubtless1 the full control which the bars and frames afford over the inmost recesses of the hives1 is a great temptation to the bee-keeper2 but1 if he yields too readily to it1 he will imperil his chance of profit1 and deprive himself of that continuous source of interest1 which a judicious apiarian always enjoys4 ,many persons who are well informed on most subjects1 are extraordinarily ignorant of the natural history of bees1 and the economy of the bee-hive4 ,perhaps we might venture to suggest that1 more pains should be taken at schools or by parents to inform young persons on this1 in connection with kindred subjects4 ,as an amusing illustration of the ignorance referred to1 we transcribe an order we received a short time since from a seminary in the north of ,england4 ,the young gentleman thus writes3--,master ---- presents his compliments to ,messrs4 ,neighbour1 and begs they will send him a swarm of bees2 he encloses six postage stamps1 and hopes they will send him a good swarm4 ,this embryo naturalist was evidently of a mercantile turn1 and had a mind to buy in the cheapest market1 for in a postscript he adds3--,please let it be fourpence1 if you can6 ,we need scarcely say that in reply we endeavoured to enlighten our juvenile correspondent as to what constituted a swarm of bees1 and returned the stamps1 with our thanks4 ,the culture of bees would be greatly promoted1 if a knowledge of it were considered necessary as one of the regular qualifications of a gardener4 ,so little time is needed to gain the skill requisite for the tendance of an apiary1 that it seems only reasonable to expect it of a well taught gardener1 and he should feel a pleasure in the circumstance of its forming a part of his duties4 ,in ,germany1 where a country gentleman's table is kept constantly supplied with fresh honey1 the gardeners are expected to understand the management of hives2 and in ,bavaria1 modern bee culture is taught in the colleges to all the horticultural students4 ,travellers in ,switzerland will call to mind the almost invariable practice of placing new honey on the breakfast tables at hotels in that country4 ,some writers on bee-culture attach much importance to the particular position in which an apiary stands1 and the aspect towards which it faces4 ,a southern1 or rather a south-eastern aspect is the one which we have already recommended4 ,our reason for this preference is1 that we deem it very important for the bees to have the first of the morning sun4 ,bees are early risers1 and should have every inducement given them for the maintenance of so excellent a practice4 ,a few years since1 many strong opinions were expressed in favour of a northern aspect for hives4 ,the chief reason given for those opinions1 though very plausible1 appears to us to be a very partial and inadequate one4 ,it was said that1 when the hives face the south1 the bees may1 like the incautious swallow in the fable1 be tempted to fly abroad in the transient winter sunshine1 and then perish in the freezing atmosphere when a passing cloud intervenes4 ,but it is a very easy matter1 if considered needful1 to screen the entrance by fixing up matting so as to intercept the rays of the sun4 ,at our own apiary we make no alteration in winter1 under the belief that the bees will take care of themselves1 and they seldom venture out when the weather is unsuitable4 ,with hives exposed in the open garden1 it is a good practice to wind hay-bands round them in frosty weather1 as such a protection enables the bees to resist the cold4 ,when a thaw occurs1 everything1 both in and out of doors1 has a great deal of dampness about it4 ,the combs of a hive are not exempt from this1 so that it is advisable to have slight upward ventilation in winter4 ,holes the size of a pin's head allow of the escape of a good deal of bad air1 which is generated by the exhalations of the bees1 as well as by the dampness before referred to4 ,these holes being small1 do not create sufficient draft through the hives to be pernicious2 if closed up by propolis1 are readily reopened with a pin4 ,with wooden hives in winter1 a bell glass is often found to be useful2 it should be placed over the hole in the crown-board1 with a zinc trough to receive the condensed moisture4 ,in summer bees do much towards ventilating their own stock-hives4 ,the observant apiarian will not fail to remark how1 on a warm day1 several of the little creatures will stand at the entrance with their abdomens slightly raised1 and their twinkling wings in rapid motion1 producing a current of air inwards2 while another set are engaged in like manner1 driving the bad air out1 so that a supply of pure oxygen is conveyed to the crowded inmates4 ,in this fanning operation their wings vibrate with such rapidity1 that their shape is as indistinct as are the spokes of a wheel when revolving in rapid centrifugal motion4 ,this important office entails great physical exertion on the part of the bees1 and they relieve each other in detachments4 ,some bee-keepers find an adapting board convenient for placing underneath straw supers1 as it facilitates their removal4 ,these boards are made of mahogany half an inch thick1 with a hole in the centre corresponding with that in the stock hive4 ,we do not consider it necessary to fix cross sticks in the straw stock hives1 as is frequently done2 but if the apiarian prefers to have his hives so furnished1 there is no serious objection to it4 ,these observations refer to our ,cottager's hive 7page #cd74 ,there is another little matter of detail that should be named here2 that is1 the necessity of the bee-keeper always having a common hive in readiness near the bees1 so as to be able to secure any swarm which may unexpectedly start4 ,here our pleasant task must close4 ,we trust that all information has been given that is needful to enable the practical bee-keeper to begin business1 and the scientific apiarian to commence his observations4 ,by way of illustrating the two characters combined1 we will conclude by quoting another simple idyl by the ,german bee-keeper1 ,herr ,braun1 whose winter musings we have already presented to the reader4 ,from ,the ,journal of ,horticulture4 ,,on ,,the ,,first ,,flight ,,of ,,bees ,,in ,,spring4 ,by ,adalbert ,braun1 ,translated by ,a ,devonshire ,bee-keeper4 ,hark6 what is so gaily humming ,in the little garden there8 ,hark6 what is so briskly whizzing ,through the still and silent air8 ,friend1 it is our bees--the darlings-- ,now enliven'd by the ,spring2 ,yes1 the winter is departed4 ,and once more they're on the wing4 ,happy he1 who winter's perils ,all his stocks brings safely through2 ,thank ,him1 of all good the ,giver-- ,faithful ,watchman ,he1 and true4 ,of my own are none departed4 ,all as yet unhurt remain2 ,though no longer rich in honey4 ,yet is ,spring returned again6 ,come1 and let us view them nearer-- ,enter by the garden gate2-- ,so--stand still1 and watch their doings-- ,light your pipe1 and patient wait4 ,see how busily they traverse ,to their pasturage and back1 ,that they may by toil unwearied ,save the commonwealth from wrack4 ,look1 ,o look6 what loads of pollen1 ,bring they in with heedful care4 ,nurslings1 fear not2 for your cravings ,here's sufficient and to spare4 ,how they dart and how they hurtle ,through the genial balmy air6 ,to the mountains--to the meadows-- ',tis the scent attracts them there6 ,there they dexterously rifle ,nectar from each flow'r in bloom2 ,toil they for our honey harvest1 ,for us fill the honey-room4 ,yes1 our bees1 our precious darlings4 ,we salute you all to-day2 ,for your life is our enjoyment-- ,winter's sleep has pass'd away4 ,grant prosperity1 ,heaven6 ,to the new-born honey-year-- ,give thy favour--give thy blessing-- ,to these objects of our care4 ,now let each attentive guardian ,in devoted service strive ,for the proud1 the ,matron-monarch-- ,sov'reign of the honey-hive4 ,so that we may learn by watching ,who that in the noon-tide glance1 ,or in midnight's darkest moments4 ,summons her to ,hymen's dance4#aj ,ev'ry bee-hive calls for patience1 ,whilst great ,haller's lessons teach ,without patience ,nature's secrets ,none successfully can reach4 ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 ,mount ,radford1 ,exeter4 ,footnote #aj3 ,this point cannot now be considered doubtful1 but it must be remembered that ,herr ,braun's verses were written eighteen years ago4 ,in conclusion1 we would remind all bee-keepers who earnestly desire success1 and who hope to draw pecuniary profit from their pursuit1 of the golden rule in bee-keeping3--,keep your stocks strong4 ,in exercising the assiduous attention and persevering effort1 which that maxim enjoins1 they will not only be regarded as bee-keepers1 but1 as ,mr4 ,langstroth says1 will acquire a right to the title of bee-masters4 ,,appendix4 ,illustration ,,testimonials ,,of ,,the ,,press4 ,illustration ,,great ,,exhibition #ahea4 ,the ,working ,apiary in the ,great ,exhibition of #ahea1 will long live in remembrance of the many thousand visitors who witnessed with much interest the matchless industry of its busy occupants4 ,we extract the following from many notices that appeared in the public journals relative thereto4 ,in noticing the hives exhibited in the ,crystal ,palace1 ,i would say1 first and foremost in my opinion stands ,mr4 ,taylor's ,eight-bar ,hive1 and ,messrs4 ,neighbour and ,son's ,improved ,cottage ,hive1 both exhibited by ,messrs4 ,neighbour4--,j4 ,h4 ,payne1 see ,cottage ,gardener1 ,nos4 #afi1 #agj4 ,from the ,illustrated ,london ,news4 ,messrs4 ,neighbour's ,apiary consists of a large glass case1 with parts of the sides covered with perforated zinc1 for the sake of ventilation4 ,this apiary contains three hives2 first ,neighbour's ,ventilating ,box-,hive1 containing from #ae1jjj to #bj1jjj bees1 which were hived on the #cjth of ,april of the present year1 the day before that of the opening of the ,great ,exhibition2 ,neighbour's ,observatory ,glass ,hive1 containing about the same number as the box-hive2 and a two storied square box-hive1 with sloping roof4 ,from this latter1 however1 the bees decamped within a week after they had been hived1 owing to some disturbance1 or perhaps1 to the dislike taken by the bees to their new habitation4 ,the ,ventilating ,box-,hive is1 in shape1 square1 having windows and shutters4 ,the entrance is at the back1 enabling the bees to go to ,kensington ,gardens1 or other resorts1 when they please4 ,above the wooden box is placed a bell glass1 into which the bees ascend to work through circular opening in1 the top of the square box4 ,in the top of the bell-glass is an aperture through which is inserted a tubular trunk of perforated zinc1 to take off the moisture from within4 ,the ,observatory ,hive is of glass1 with a superior crystal compartment1 an opening being formed between the two2 the bees are at present forming a comb in this upper glass1 which affords a very interesting sight1 as generally speaking1 the bees are in such a cluster when at work that one can scarcely view their mathematically formed cells4 ,a straw cover is suspended over the upper compartment by a rope over a pulley1 which cover is raised up by the attendant at pleasure4 ,the larger or bottom compartment rests on a wooden floor1 which has a circular groove sinking therein to receive the bell glass4 ,a landing-place projecting1 as usual1 with sunken way1 to enable the bees to pass in and out of their habitation1 completes this contrivance4 ,in addition to ,mr4 ,neighbour's ,crystal ,apiary1 he also exhibits a ,cottager's ,straw ,hive1 ,taylor's ,amateur ,bee-,hive1 a ,glass ,hive1 ,nutt's ,patent ,collateral ,hive1 the ,ladies' ,observatory ,hive1 ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage ,hive1 and ,payne's ,cottage ,hive4 ,the ,cottager's ,hive is simply that of the form we find in use in most parts of the country1 where the industrious cottagers or their wives1 by a little attention to their interesting little labourers1 are enabled to add something to their usually scanty earnings4 ,this kind of hive is usually made of straw1 resting on a circular wooden board1 with part of the board or floor projecting in front as a lauding place for the bees1 which enter under the edge of the straw by means of a sinking in the floor4 ,taylor's ,amateur's ,bee-,hive consists of three small square boxes1 one above another1 with a roof over the top story2 the ventilation being effected by perforations under the eaves2 each side of every story has a window and shutter4 ,the landing place is in front of the bottom story1 and the entrance to the hive is a long slit about inch high4 ,the ,glass ,hive or ,ladies' ,observatory ,hive1 is similar to that in which the bees are at work in ,mr4 ,neighbour's ,apiary already mentioned1 but on account of the number of bees at work therein1 and the extent of comb already effected1 the interior perches cannot be seen4 ,these wooden perches are arranged in parallel lines1 leaving a space next the glass all round1 the whole being framed together with a bar at right angles1 and resting on an upright support in the middle4 ,the ,improved ,cottage ,hive of the same exhibitor consists of a straw circular lower compartment1 having windows and outside shutters4 ,a thermometer is placed just inside one of the windows4 ,the floor is of wood1 with a landing place and sunken way1 as already mentioned in some of the other hives4 ,in the top1 which is also of wood1 are three circular perforations1 each of about two inches in diameter2 above which are placed as many bell-glasses4 ,there is a small hole in the top of each of the glasses1 through which a perforated tubular trunk is inserted1 for the sake of taking off the moisture from the interior of the hive4 ,within the glass is a feeding-trough of zinc1 circular in shape1 with a floating perforated floor1 on which the bees alight1 and in the winter season regale themselves with the honey which is found in the various perforations1 as it floats up to the level of the honey1 contained in the small filling-trough1 through which the honey1 or beer and sugar1 is poured4 ,the glasses are covered with a straw cap1 removable at pleasure4 ,messrs4 ,neighbour's contributions are completed with1 tin perforated fumigators1 by the use of which the bees are stupefied for a while1 when required to be moved from one hive to another2 and specimens of honey and honey-comb of the season #ahej4 ,from the ,express4 ,bees and ,bee-,hives4--,in the ,north-,east ,gallery directly under the ,transept are arranged by ,messrs4 ,neighbour1 of ,holborn1 several descriptions of bee-hives1 which it will be interesting to many of our readers to examine1 as this branch of rural economy is claiming much general and deserved attention throughout the country4 ,the novelty of these hives consists in the facilities that are afforded in taking therefrom at any time of the gathering season the purest honey without destroying or even injuring the bees1 thus humanely superseding the barbarous and hateful system of murdering these interesting insects1 to obtain the produce of their industry4 ,immediately adjoining the group of untenanted bee-hives may be observed living hives with the bees most industriously at work4 ,these useful little creatures have been highly honoured by the ,executive ,committee1 for of all the animal workers that contribute to the interest of the ,exhibition they alone are allowed therein to display their matchless ingenuity and skill4 ,by a simple contrivance the bees are allowed egress and ingress without in the least degree molesting the visitors1 thus enabling the admirers of the works of nature to view the whole process of forming the cells and depositing the honey therein4 ,within these few days ,messrs4 ,neighbour have added to the ,apiary1 a bee-hive constructed entirely of glass1 protected by a cover neatly made of straw1 but so contrived1 that on application to the attendant can be removed instantly1 thus illustrating more particularly the curious workmanship of these amusing insects4 ,her ,majesty the ,queen1 and the ,prince ,consort1 with the ,royal ,children1 were some time engaged in watching with deep interest the busy scene before them1 and putting many questions relating to the habits and economy of the honey bee4 ,,international ,,exhibition #ahfa4 ,from the ,illustrated ,london ,news1 ,august #af1 #ahfb4 ,one of the most interesting and instructive objects in the ,exhibition1 is a transparent hive1 in which the bees may be seen at full work4 ,among the collection of bee-hives exhibited by ,messrs4 ,neighbour and ,son1 is one of glass1 stocked with a colony of ,italian ,alp bees4 ,here the queen bee may be seen surrounded by her subjects1 which pay the most deferential attention to their sovereign4 ,through an aperture cut in the wall1 the busy throng of bees are continually passing and repassing4 ,they go out at their pleasure into the open court1 fly over the annexe into the grounds of the ,horticultural ,society and other adjacent gardens1 and return laden with sweets4 ,from the ,journal of ,horticulture ,october #ba1 #ahfb4 ,neighbour1 ,g4 ,sons1 #adi1 ,regent ,street1 and #abg1 ,holborn1 ,no4 #baeg1 have a very handsome and complete stall1 on ascending the steps of which we found a flourishing stock of ,ligurians1 apparently not at all ashamed of the public position which they occupied1 and working vigorously in the full light of day4 ,the queen1 one of the largest and finest-coloured we have met with1 was perambulating the combs and receiving the homage of her subjects1 stopping frequently to deposit an egg in every empty cell4 ,the hive itself was a ,woodbury ,unicomb1 handsomely got up in mahogany1 invented as its name implies1 by our valued correspondent4 ,a ,devonshire ,bee-keeper1 the construction of which will be most readily understood by an inspection of the engraving at page #df4 ,its distinctive features are1 the adaptation of the moveable-bar system to unicomb-hives1 by which any colony in an apiary of ,woodbury-hives can be placed in the unicomb-hive in a few minutes1 and the use of outside ,venetians1 or sun blinds4 as they are called1 instead of the usual impervious shutters4 ,by this contrivance light is never excluded1 so that when the hive is open for inspection1 all its inmates continue their avocation with their accustomed regularity1 and a quiet and orderly scene is presented to the spectator1 instead of the hubbub and confusion which ensues in ordinary unicomb-hives4 ,on the left-hand side of the unicomb hangs a beautifully executed drawing of a ,ligurian queen bee magnified1 together with the queen worker and drone of ,apis ,ligustica1 of the natural size4 ,immediately under the drawing is placed a square glass super containing nearly #dj lbs4 of the finest honey-comb4 ,on the right of the unicomb-hive is another super of the same description1 containing nearly #cj lbs4 of the purest honey4 ,these supers are1 undoubtedly1 by far the finest in the ,exhibition1 and are the first worked in ,england by ,ligurian bees1 being from the apiary of ,a ,devonshire ,bee-keeper4 ,in addition to these the most striking objects1 are shown ,neighbour's ,improved ,single ,box and ,cottage ,hives1 ,taylor's ,bar-,hives1 ,woodbury ,frame and ,bar-hives1 the new ,bottle-feeder1 and bee apparatus of every description4 ,it will be apparent from the foregoing1 that ,messrs4 ,neighbour's stall is well worth inspection1 although the various novelties it contains appear to have met with but scant appreciation by the ,jury1 who merely awarded to them that honourable mention so lavishly accorded to the far less deserving objects4 ,from the ,illustrated ,news of the ,world ,september #f1 #ahfb4 ,one of the most interesting and instructive objects is the honey bee at full work in transparent hives4 ,in the ,international ,exhibition1 ,class #i1 ,eastern ,annexe1 ,messrs4 ,neighbour and ,son1 of ,holborn and ,regent-street1 exhibit1 amongst a collection of the most approved bee-hives and apparatus1 a glass hive1 stocked with a colony of ,italian ,alp bees2 the hive is so constructed as to admit of easily seeing the queen1 surrounded by the working bees4 ,contrary to the long established notion that the bees work only in the dark this hive is completely open to broad daylight4 ,the bees do not manifest the least dislike to the exposure1 and they are not discomfited when light is occasionally admitted for inspecting them4 ,it is obvious that a knowledge of this new feature must tend to a more general acquaintance with the habits and hidden mysteries of the bee than has hitherto been the case4 ,the queen may be seen depositing the eggs in the cells2 in this manner she goes on multiplying the species1 the working bees surrounding her1 and paying the most deferential attention1 with their heads always towards her4 ,not the least interesting part is to watch the entrance2 facility is afforded for doing so1 the sunken way communicating with the hive being covered with a flat piece of glass2 the busy throng1 pass and repass through the aperture cut in the wall1 so that the bees go out at their pleasure into the open court1 fly over the ,annexe into the ,horticultural and other adjacent gardens1 and return laden with crystal sweets gathered from the flowers4 ,the novelty of being able to inspect living bees1 and those of a new variety1 as easily as goods in a shop window1 will well repay the trouble of finding ,messrs4 ,neighbour's stand4 ,these gentlemen will no doubt cheerfully give any information that may be required4 ,from the ,gardener's ,weekly ,magazine ,september #a1 #ahfb4 ,conducted by ,shirley ,hibberd1 ,esq41 ,f4,r4,h4,s4 ,neighbour and ,son1 #adi1 ,regent ,street1 ,london1 7#baeg74--,this is the most important of the exhibitions in this department4 ,the ,bees at work are in hives open to the inspection of visitors1 the bees passing out through tubes to the open air1 and not being visible within the building except through the glass of the hives4 ,the collection of hives of all kinds is complete and interesting1 and we subjoin a figure of the stand 7see page #ajj7 to show how bees as well as hives may be exhibited conveniently4 ,amongst the various contrivances exhibited by ,messrs4 ,neighbour1 ,nutt's ,collateral ,hive has an important place1 and though very fancifully got up1 and therefore very attractive to amateur bee-keepers1 we must make the same objection to it as we have above to other forms of the same from different makers4 ,the ,single-box ,hive1 the ,taylor's ,shallow ,eight-bar ,hive1 are the best bee-boxes in this collection1 and every way admirable4 ,here are no fancy ventilators which the bees will close up1 nor provoking side boxes which they will hesitate to enter1 and from which it will be hard to dislodge them in order to get them to winter in the pavilion4 ,whoever begins bee-keeping with either of these will have a fair chance of success4 ,the most popular of the hives is that called the ,improved ,cottage4 ,its popularity no doubt is due to the compromise between wood and straw which it accomplishes4 ,people cannot get rid of the idea that a bee-hive must be made of straw1 though it is a material so ill adapted for union of swarms1 supering and other operations of advanced bee culture4 ,the ,cottager's ,hive is well adapted for those apiarians who are desirous of setting their poorer neighbours in the way of keeping bees on the improved system4 ,it consists of stock hive1 small super-hive1 and straw cover1 and is on the principle of ,payne's1 which has been most successful among country people who have got so far as to prefer keeping1 to killing their bees4 ,the ,woodbury ,bar and ,frame ,hive is a novel construction1 combining all the best features of the best bar boxes1 and adding some new ones of great value and importance4 ,we recommend every bee-keeper to become possessed of this admirable contrivance1 with which ,mr4 ,woodbury has accomplished wonderful things in the multiplication of the new race of ,ligurian bees4 ,in general form and proportions it resembles ,taylor's and ,tegetmeier's boxes1 but in the arrangement of the bars it is unique4 ,the stock box is furnished with ten moveable bars and frames1 after the ,german plan4 ,each bar has a projection running along the under side2 this ridge is chosen by the bees for the foundation of combs1 rendering guide combs unnecessary4 ,the supers have glass sides and eight bars1 so that the operator need never be in doubt when to add another box above or take away the harvest4 ,the ,unicomb1 or one-comb observatory-hive1 is intended solely for purposes of observation1 and though furnished with doors1 to keep up a uniform degree of heat1 ,messrs4 ,neighbour have found in their experience at the ,regent's ,park ,gardens and elsewhere1 that the bees manifest no dislike to a continual exposure to light4 ,as this elegant contrivance can be placed in the window of a drawing-room1 it is adapted to the amusement and instruction of the family circle1 as well as to the more serious objects of the etomologist and scientific apiarian4 ,all that is necessary is to connect the outlet with the open air by means of a length of tubing or wooden tunnel1 and the bees pass in and out without obtaining access to the room1 and all the mysteries of the hive are open to daily observation4 ,there are numerous other hives1 bee-feeders1 bee armour1 c41 c41 which we have not space to notice1 but which we advise our apiarian friends to inspect1 as the collection of ,messrs4 ,neighbour illustrates fully every department of this interesting subject4 ,,bath ,,and ,,west ,,of ,,england ,,agricultural ,,show ,,at ,,exeter1 ,,in ,,june1 #ahfc4 ,from the ,journal of ,horticulture1 ,june #bc1 #ahfc4 ,a novel feature in the ,exhibition of the ,bath and ,west of ,england ,agricultural ,society which took place at ,exeter last week1 was the stall of ,messrs4 ,neighbour ,sons1 in which were exhibited bees at work in glass hives1 and apiarian appliances of every description4 ,there were two ,ligurian stocks of bees at full work1 one in a full sized ,woodbury ,unicomb ,hive1 having been brought from ,london for the occasion1 and the other in a smaller hive of the same description being from the neighbouring apiary of our valued correspondent1 ,a ,devonshire ,bee-,keeper4 ,amongst the hives exhibited1 the ,woodbury ,frame ,hive in straw appeared both novel and good1 whilst amongst the apparatus1 artificial combs and the stereotyped plates for making them1 seemed to us the most worthy of attention4 ,there was a remarkably curious specimen of artificial combs or partition wall partially fabricated into complete comb by the bees1 which struck us as being well worth examination1 showing1 as it did1 the various stages by which this transformation is effected1 and being calculated to throw light on the problem as to the mode in which bees construct their combs4 ,it is almost unnecessary to state1 that this unique and instructive stall was crowded throughout the week1 and we hope its financial results were such as will lead ,messrs4 ,neighbour to continue their attendance at the ,society's meetings4 ,from the ,western ,times ,exeter1 ,june #ab1 #ahfc4 ,for the ,little ,busy ,bee4--,next to the poultry tents1 and set back against the yard fencing1 is the exhibition of ,mr4 ,george ,neighbour ,sons1 #abg1 ,high ,holborn1 and #adi1 ,regent ,street1 ,london1 inventors and manufacturers of improved bee-hives for taking honey without the destruction of the bees4 ,the savage knows where to find the nest of the wild bee1 and how to get at his honey2 but all the improvement upon the covetousness of the savage made by the long after ages of the world to modern times1 was to find means of luring the pattern of industry to a convenient atelier where he might be more easily1 first murdered and then robbed4 ,their habits early attracted the attention of some of the best observers of ancient as well as modern times2 ,cicero and ,pliny tell of the philosopher ,hyliscus quitting human society and retiring to the desert to contemplate their peaceful industry4 ,the ancient poet in his ,sic vos non vobis plaintively sings over bee and beast1 living1 or rather dying1 not for themselves1 but the lord of creation1 yet was it left to modern times--very modern times--to join the sentiment of humanity to the rapacity of the barbarian4 ,mr4 ,neighbour has a very complete collection of specimens of the ingenious and successful contrivances in the construction of hives for the double object of preserving the honey and the life of the bee2 and also1 subsidiarily of promoting its comfort during its busy and useful life4 ,we are not allowed to forget here1 that we have residing in our city one of the first apiarians in the kingdom--,mr4 ,thomas ,woodbury1 of ,mount ,radford4 ,if the bee philosophy be his hobby1 we may recollect that all great discoveries and improvements owe their existence to men who have had the power and the will to concentrate their faculties upon a single object4 ,one proof of his genius in this his favourite department of action1 is seen among this collection of ,mr4 ,neighbour's in the ,woodbury ,unicomb ,hive4 ,it might be when closed up1 for ought that appears1 a neat case of books2 but on opening two doors of the ,venetian blind pattern1 back and front1 we see between the glass walls1 the insect city exposed to view with all the population in action4 ,there it may be seen ,how skilfully she builds her cell2 ,how neat she spreads her wax2 ,and labours hard to store it well ,with the sweet food she makes4 ,some of the hives are constructed chiefly for the purpose of promoting a philosophic observation of the bee's habits and methods of procedure in his wonderful work4 ,neighbour's ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive is a great novelty1 being constructed with glass sides1 the hidden mysteries of the hive being exposed to the full light of day4 ,huber's ,book or ,leaf ,hive is constructed to facilitate the object of the scientific apiarian4 ,but the class of hives which will most interest those desirous of promoting bee-keeping among the many will be those for the cottage4 ,there can be no doubt that many a poor cottager in the country1 if he could be made to see the advantage it would be to him1 and were taught the most economical and successful way of managing this species of live stock1 would add thereby something considerable to his small earnings in the course of a summer4 ,members of ,cottage ,garden ,societies have turned their attention to it very generally2 but to get the thing well afloat1 requires in every district the devotion of some earnest enthusiast who will take up the apostolic rule of action ,this one thing ,i do4 ,there is the ,no4 #e1 ,improved ,cottage ,hive1 in which three bell glasses are employed1 enabling you to take a glass of the purest honey from the hive in the most vigorous period of the season4 ,then there are other hives of simpler construction and less expensive1 but all illustrative of the sentiment of humanity which seeks to preserve from wanton destruction those useful and interesting auxiliaries to our luxury and comfort4 ,this comparatively unimportant stand1 in point of size1 cannot but attract the attention of a large number of visitors1 especially of the ladies and the clergy1 who are desirous of promoting the cultivation of the bee among the poor4 ,to heighten the interest for the curious1 in one of ,mr4 ,woodbury's hives the bees are all alive and at it1 and for those who are disposed to go further into the subject1 information is available touching this fashionable1 profitable1 and domesticated member of the ,apiarian family1 the ,ligurian and ,italian ,alp-bee4 ,our old dark-coated delver is threatened with supercession1 just as the black rat was driven off by the ,norwegian invader1 now in possession1 and as the old races of cattle are being metamorphosed into the sleek1 shapely1 beef-bearing1 small-boned animals of the present time4 ,from the ,devon ,weekly ,times ,june #h1 #ahfc4 ,bees4--,messrs4 ,neighbour ,sons1 of ,london1 are exhibitors of two ,woodbury ,unicomb ,hives1 showing the royal and common bees in full work4 ,these hives are very ingeniously constructed1 and were invented by ,mr4 ,t4 ,woodbury1 of ,mount ,radford4 ,among other apiarian attractions1 we may mention the improved ,cottage and ,cottager's ,hives1 which are well worthy the notice of those for whom they are designed1 and the ,ladies' ,observatory ,hive4 ,the ,messrs4 ,neighbour also exhibit ,ligurian bees4 ,from ,woolmer's ,exeter ,gazette ,june #ab1 #ahfc4 ,improved ,bee-,hives4--,at a stand near the poultry tents1 are exhibited ,neighbour's ,improved ,bee-hives for the taking of honey without the destruction of bees4 ,the hives are stocked with the famous ,ligurian bee4 ,the ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive is constructed with glass sides1 so that the whole of the movements of the ,apiarian colony are visible1 including the proceedings of the queen and her court4 ,this and some of the other descriptions of hives manufactured by ,messrs4 ,neighbour are invented by ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 ,esq4 ,they are furnished with moveable bars1 after the ,german fashion4 ,each bar has a projection along the underside2 this ridge being waxed1 induces the bees to build parallel combs--thus obviating the necessity for a guide comb4 ,this description of hive is best suited for the ,ligurian or ,italian ,alp-bee4 ,stocks of this species1 now so much in repute1 may be obtained of ,messrs4 ,neighbour #adi1 ,regent ,street1 ,london4 ,,royal ,,agricultural ,,show1 ,,newcastle1 #ahfd4 ,from the ,northern ,daily ,express ,july #bb1--7,published at ,newcastle47 ,a ,model ,factory4--,stand #aia--;,g4 ,neighbour ,sons4 ,regent ,street1 and ,high ,holborn1 ,london4 ,we have heard of model farms and model lodging houses for the working classes1 but it was reserved for the ,royal ,agricultural ,society's ,meeting in #ahfd to introduce to our notice a model factory1 where we may see representatives of the working classes busily engaged in their daily avocations4 ,the stand which we have quoted above1 may afford fruitful study to such philanthropists as the ,earl of ,shaftesbury1 who make it their benevolent aim to elevate the masses1 and the lesson here given from actual life will not be lost upon working men themselves4 ,there are several striking features worthy of notice in the model factory4 ,we can clearly perceive that it has been established on a principle which is essential to the success of any great concern--namely3 the principle of a good understanding amongst the operatives themselves1 and between them and the head of the establishment4 ,what strikes us in this model factory is the unity of action which reigns throughout4 ,there is no jostling of rival interests1 and no misunderstandings1 or cross purposes4 ,the operatives in this establishment are so numerous that we question if any one has as yet been able to count their number1 and yet all seem to be working in perfect harmony1 their joint labour continually leading to one beautiful and sublime result4 ,another feature specially noticeable in the establishment1 in question is the principle of subordination4 ,singular to say1 that while the operatives are males#aa the foreman of this model factory is a female2 but that circumstance need not shock the sensibilities of our fair friends any more than it ought to offend the prejudices of the sterner sex1 inasmuch as the mighty empire of ,great ,britain is ruled by the gentle hand of a female2 and moreover1 in the one case as in the other1 the presiding genius1 amids all her official cares and duties1 takes care to preserve the modesty of her sex4 ,she never in the slightest degree obtrudes herself needlessly on public observation1 and probably on that very account the respect shown to her by her subjects is the more profound and devoted4 ,there is1 however1 one particular in which we would take leave to demur to the idea of this factory being in every respect regarded as a model4 ,we have not been able to discover that there is any particular period of the day in which the operatives are allowed to take refreshments4 ,we1 in ,england1 have been accustomed to regard the dinner hour somewhat in the light of a sacred institution4 ,and if the council of the ,royal ,agricultural ,society mean to set this up as a model institution1 we are of opinion that some explanation on this point is desirable4 ,indeed we have not been able to discover that the operatives in this establishment take any refreshment whatever4 ,if they do1 it must be on the sly1 vulgarly speaking4 ,there is one peculiarity1 however1 which must tend to popularize this institution1 and which has served to make it one of the most attractive objects on the show ground4 ,it is the fashion in all the great factories which abound on the banks of the ,tyne and throughout the country generally to act on the principle of exclusiveness to a very great extent1 and perhaps wisely so4 ,as you approach the door you see an intimation in legible characters1 ,no admission except on business4 ,this may be very proper1 but it is rather tantalising4 ,in the model factory which we are now describing all the operations are open to inspection4 ,every action is patent to the eye of the spectator4 ,this has been effected by a skilful contrivance1 and it is this contrivance in fact1 which has entitled the inventor to obtain a place in the show ground for his model factory1 which he describes by the somewhat ambiguous term of a new implement4 ,but our readers may wish to learn what is the staple manufacture of this wonderful workshop4 ,we reply--honey4 ,the factory we speak of is nothing more nor less than a bee-hive2 or1 to quote from the catalogue1 ,an ,unicomb ,observatory ,bee-hive1 with living ,italian ,alpine bees at full work2 it was invented by ,t4 ,w4 ,woodbury1 of ,exeter2 and is improved and manufactured by the exhibitors4 ,as implied by its name this hive has one comb1 so that both sides are fully exposed to the light of day1 thus allowing of an easy inspection of the queen-bee1 surrounded by her retinue4 ,footnote #aa3 ,the reporter was in error as to the sex of the workers4 ,,index4 ,illustration ,,page4 ,a4 ,adapting board #gf1 #aae1 #aaf ,age of bees #f ,anger of bees #gf1 #hi ,apiary1 best time to set up #aa ,exterior and interior of #eh ,artificial ,swarming #gi ,right time for #hj1 #ha ,directions for performing the operation of #hj1 #ha ,artificial ,swarms1 how should be placed #hc ,aspect #be1 #aad1 #aae ,australia1 sending bees to #ajj1 #aja ,b4 ,baby bee1 cradle of #i emerging from the cell #i ,bath and ,west of ,england ,journal #ig1 #ii ,agricultural ,shows #dg1 #dh1 #abd1 #abe1 #abf ,bee dress #fh1 #gd ,necessity for #fi1 #gg ,bees1 reduced size of #gi ,human breath obnoxious to #hi ,artificial scent objectionable #hi ,bee ,hives 7,modern74 ,neighbour's ,cottager's3-- ,description of #cd ,putting on super #ce1 #cf ,time for removal of #cf ,depositing eggs in super #cf ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage 7,no4 #e73-- ,description of #bh ,directions for #bi ,weight #bg ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage 7,no4 #f7 #ca ,neighbour's ,ladies' ,observatory or ,crystal ,hive3-- ,description of #cb ,feeding #cc ,light not to be admitted at first #cc ,mode of fixing #cb1 #cc stocking #cc ,protection from cold #cc ,use of frame work #cc ,weight #cb ,neighbour's ,unicomb ,observatory3-- ,construction and application #dd ,mode of stocking #dd ,how kept warm #df ,how exhibited at ,paris #de ,prize ,medal for #de ,neighbour's ,single ,box3-- ,description of and directions for #bd1 #be ,nutt's ,collateral3-- ,description of #ag1 #ah ,means of ventilation #ba ,mode of stocking #ai1 #bj taking surplus honey #ba1 #bb ,feeding #ai ,shed necessary #ai ,the late ,thomas ,nutt #bc ,taylor's ,improved ,cottage3-- ,description of #dc ,taylor's ,eight-bar ,straw ,hive3-- ,description of #dc ,taylor's ,amateur ,eight-bar #bf1 #bi ,seven-bar #bg ,woodbury ,bar and ,frame3-- ,description of #cf ,glass ,bar and ,frame #ch ,straw ,bar and ,frame1 description of #cg ,special advantage of #cg ,origin of #cg ,directions for stocking #gc1 #gd ,woodbury ,unicomb3-- ,construction of #df ,inspection of queen #dg ,how fixed #dh ,answering #dh1 #di ,mode of stocking #dh1 #di ,bees removed before ,winter #d ,huber's ,book or ,leaf1 description of #ej1 #ea ,bee ,houses4 ,advantage of #ec1 #ed ,description of1 to contain two hives #ec ,furnished with lock and key #ed ,how hives are placed in #ed ,plan for excluding insects #ed ,description of1 to contain twelve hives #ee ,object of colouring alighting board #ee ,bees mistaking entrance #ee1 #ef ,loss of queens #ef ,bee-house to contain nine hives1 why not recommended #ef ,bee-keeping1 inexpensive and profitable #aac ,bee-keeping in ,london #ajb ,st4 ,james's ,place #aje ,zoological ,gardens1 ,regent's ,park #aje ,st4 ,john's ,wood and suburbs of ,london #aje ,g4 ,neighbour and ,sons' ,london ,apiary #ajd ,seasons1 #ahfc1 #ahfd1 favorable for #ajf ,bee-keeper should be a book-keeper #aaa ,c4 ,cells1 contracted size of #gi ,changing old stocks into new hives3-- ,not to be attempted by the inexperienced #hf ,adaptation of old hive to the depriving system #hf ,directions for transferring stocks into frame hives #hg ,classes for whom bee-keeping is suited #a ,combs1 artificial #gj ,value of #gj ,mode of applying #ga1 #gb ,must not be jarred #fi ,taken from bar and frame hives #ge1 #gi ,fixing in frames #ge ,ensuring regularity of #bg ,compound ,bar and ,frame #dj ,cottagers1 way to convince of the humane system #aaa ,cottagers' hive #cd ,cover for bar and frame hive1 description of #da1 #db ,zinc #ei1 #fj ,ornamental zinc #ei ,straw hackle #ce ,crown board #gd1 #gf ,d4 ,dampness in hives in winter injurious #cc1 #aae ,depriving ,system3-- ,special advantages of #aj1 #ce ,practiced in ancient ,greece and ,italy #aj ,profit to be derived from #aaa1 #aab ,dividing hives1 reason why they do not answer #hb ,dressing hives inside with sweet not needful #ce ,driving bees1 directions for #hd1 #he ,drones1 sex of #f ,purpose of #g ,reason for numbers in hive #g ,general massacre of #g ,all die before winter #h ,e4 ,eggs of bees3-- ,description of #i ,in supers #cf ,entrance to hives #ah1 #ca1 #cg ,epitaph on murdered bees #aa ,evans1 note on page1 extract from #c1 #d1 #e1 #ab1 #ac ,evening thoughts in ,january1 a poem #ef1 #eg ,f4 ,feeding #ai1 #be1 #ca1 #cc1 #fc1 #fd ,feeder 7,bottle7 #fc 7,nutt's7 #ff 7,round7 #fe 7,fountain7 #fe ,frame3-- ,description of #ci ,mr4 ,woodbury's improvement #dj ,how kept perpendicular #ci1 #dj ,taking out with combs #gf ,direction for handling frames #gg1 #gh ,placing frames in hives #gh ,french ,bishop visiting a ,cure 7anecdote7 #aaa1 #aab ,fructifying flowers1 bees useful for #ia ,fumigation1 directions for #ff1 #fg1 #fh ,fumigators #ff1 #fg1 #fh ,g4 ,general remarks #aaj to #aaf ,glasses1 bell #fj1 #fa1 #fb ,great ,exhibition of #ahea1 ,testimonials of the press #aai1 #abj1 #aba ,guide comb #bg for glasses #fa1 #fb ,h4 ,hives--see ,bee-hives #ajf ,large number may be kept #aab ,hive should be ready for swarm #ae1 #aae ,honey cutters #ff ,honey ,dew #id ,honey1 directions for draining from combs #aaj ,keeping honey in the comb at a warm temperature #aaj ,huber 7,francis71 extract from ,memoirs of #ea ,i4 ,improved cottage hive #ca ,improved comb bar #ci ,increase of bees #i ,india-rubber gloves #gd ,impregnation of queen #c ,insects that are injurious #hc1 #ajg ,insects1 cleansing hives from #hc ,interchange of combs for strengthening weak hives #gi ,italian honey bee #ic1 #id1 #ie ,description of #if ,great honey collecting powers #if1 #ig ,opinions of ,german bee-masters #if ,introduction into ,england #ig ,hermann's book on #ig1 #ih ,physical characteristics of #ih ,importation of queens in many instances unsuccessful #ii ,transporting stocks to ,australia #ajj1 #aja ,at the ,international ,exhibition #gj1 #ajj1 #aja1 #aba1 #abb1 #abc1 #abd ,j4 ,journal of ,horticulture #ii ,k4 ,keeping bell glasses warm #be ,l4 ,ligurian honey bee 7see ,italian bee7 ,loyalty of bees #d ,m4 ,mortar1 not necessary for closing crevices #ce ,moths1 how entrance is effected #aji ,how to destroy eggs of #aji ,n4 ,neglect of bee-keeping #a ,neighbour's hives 7see ,bee-hives74 ,number of eggs in the season #c ,nutt's hives 7see ,bee-hives7 ,p4 ,pasturage for bees #ic1 #id ,honey yielding flowers #ic1 #id ,wild flowers best #id ,pollen1 food for infant bees #ia ,how collected #ia ,rye meal a substitute for farina from flowers #ia ,propolis1 or bees' cement #ib ,how obtained #ib1 #ic ,application of #ic ,anecdote illustrating use of #ic ,putting on super hive or bell glasses #bj1 #be1 #bi1 #cf1 #ge ,q4 ,queen3-- ,description of #b ,movements of1 laying eggs and marriage day #c ,honor to when fertile #d ,combats with her rivals #d1 #e ,dismay of bees on loss of #e ,raised from worker embryo #e ,longevity of #f ,old one goes with first swarm #ab ,leaves hive only in fine weather #ab ,in super hives #bb1 #cf ,loss of #e1 #ef ,view of #dd1 #dg ,supplying queenless hives with #e1 #hc ,r4 ,roller1 engraved pressing3-- ,description of #fi ,application of #fi1 #gj ,royal ,agricultural ,society's ,show #dh1 #abf1 #abg1 #abh ,s4 ,spring1 time to begin bee-keeping #aa ,spring1 ,first flight of bees in1 a poem #aaf1 #aag ,sprinkling bees #gg ,stand for hives1 engraving #bd1 #bh1 #cf1 #db ,sticks in hives not necessary #aae ,super for bar and frame hives #da ,bell glass 7see ,glasses7 ,straw #ce1 #cf ,straw hives3 ,advantage of #cd ,preference for #cd1 #cg ,swarming3-- ,usual time of year for #aa ,cause of #aa ,agitation before #ab ,provisioning for #ac ,usual time of day for #ac ,poetical description of #ac ,ringing on occasion of1 needless #ac ,desirable to prevent #af ,swarms3-- ,devices for inducing settlement of #ac ,consequences of a second flight #ad ,means of preventing ditto #ad ,two sometimes depart at same time and mingle #ad ,necessity of having hives in readiness #ad ,bee dress essential #ae ,time for removing #ae ,care to be exercised when confined #ah1 #bd1 #be1 #bi1 #cj ,first swarms most valuable #af ,second1 cause of #af ,premonitory symptoms #af ,royal wailing indicative of #af ,numerical composition of #af ,third1 name of #af ,fourth1 name of #af ,care required to prevent loss of #ad1 #aji ,t4 ,taking honey1 mode of #ba1 #bb ,thomson's ,seasons1 extract from1 on murdered bees #aa ,v4 ,ventilation #ag1 #ah1 #bj1 #ba1 #aae ,w4 ,wasps1 how to prevent the increase of #ajf1 #ajg ,season #ahfd productive of #ajg ,water essential #id ,mismanagement of1 during voyage #aja ,weighing hives1 importance of #hh ,salter's spring balance best #hh ,how to judge of quantity without #hh ,windows1 objections to #ch ,wildman #ajb ,marvellous feats of #ajc ,secret of success #ajc ,worker bee3-- ,description of #h ,sex of #h ,number in hive #h ,young ones1 employment of #h ,,neighbour',s ,,improved ,,bee-,,hives1 ,,for ,,taking ,,honey ,,without ,,the ,,destruction ,,of ,,the ,,bees4 ,illustration ,,drawings ,,and ,,detailed ,,lists ,,forwarded ,,on ,,receipt ,,of ,,two ,,postage ,,stamps4 #a4 ,nutt's ,collateral ,bee-,hive #f #ae #j ,stand for ditto1 #afs4 #b4 ,neighbour's ,improved ,single-box ,hive #c #c #j ,stand for ditto1 #ajs4 #f;d4 #c4 ,taylor's ,shallow-box or ,eight-bar ,hive1 complete with cover #c #aj #j ,stand for ditto1 #ajs4 #f;d4 #d4 ,taylor's ,amateur ,bar ,hive #c #e #j ,stand for ditto1 #ajs4 #f;d4 #e4 ,neighbour's ,improved ,cottage ,hive #a #ae #j ,stand for ditto1 #ajs4 #f;d4 #f4 ,an ,improved ,cottage ,hive #a #h #j #g4 ,the ,ladies' ,observatory or ,crystal ,hive4 ,price complete #b #e #j #h4 ,the ,cottager's ,hive #j #aj #f #i #aj4 ,bee ,feeders each #e_/4 and #j #d #j #aa #ab4 ,fumigators each #b_/4 and #j #b #f #ac4 ,honey ,cutters per pair #j #e #j #ad4 ,taylor's ,improved ,cottage ,hive #a #a #j ,with ,stand1 #a4 #ajs4 #ae4 ,fountain ,bee ,feeder #j #f #j #ah4 ,taylor's ,eight-bar ,straw ,hive1 complete #b #ab #j ,stock ,hive only1 #aes4 #ai4 ,huber's ,book or ,leaf ,hive #b #e #j #bj4 ,taylor's ,unicomb ,observatory ,hive #c #c #j #bd4 ,taylor's ,glasses #g_/4 #j #d #f ,payne's ditto #j #c #j #be4 ,bell ,glass #j #d #j #bf4 #j #b #j #bg4 #j #a #j #bh4 without knob and flat top to put on the table inverted1 price with lid #j #d #f #bi4 ,zinc ,cover each #g_/f and #j #aj #f #cj4 ,shallow ,glasses 7new shape7 each #e_/f and #j #c #f #ca4 ,bee ,dress and ,protector #e_/41 by post #j #f #j #cg4 ,zinc ,cover #j #af #f #ch4 ,ornamental ditto #b #e #j #ci4 ,bee ,house to contain ,two ,hives #c #aj #j #dj4 ,twelve ,hives #ae4 and #ai #aj #j ,woodbury ,unicomb ,hive #db4 ,bar and ,frame ,hive1 complete with outside cover and super #c #c #j ,stand for ditto1 #ajs4 #f;d4 #dd4 ,bottle ,feeder #j #b #f #de4 ,woodbury ,straw ,bar and ,frame ,hive 7,stock ,hive7 #a #a #j #df4 ,engraved ,pressing ,roller #j #g #f #dg4 ,impressed ,wax ,sheets or ,artificial ,combs per dozen #j #f #j 99 99 99 99 99 ,transcriber ,note ,minor typos corrected4 ,the words floor-board and floorboard were both retained4