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+This eBook, including all associated images, markup, improvements,
+metadata, and any other content or labor, has been confirmed to be
+in the PUBLIC DOMAIN IN THE UNITED STATES.
+
+Procedures for determining public domain status are described in
+the "Copyright How-To" at https://www.gutenberg.org.
+
+No investigation has been made concerning possible copyrights in
+jurisdictions other than the United States. Anyone seeking to utilize
+this eBook outside of the United States should confirm copyright
+status under the laws that apply to them.
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+Project Gutenberg (https://www.gutenberg.org) public repository for
+eBook #68269 (https://www.gutenberg.org/ebooks/68269)
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-The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Apiary; or, Bees, bee-hives, and
-bee culture (1865), by Alfred Neighbor
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at
-www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you
-will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before
-using this eBook.
-
-Title: The Apiary; or, Bees, bee-hives, and bee culture (1865)
- being a familiar account of the habits of bees, and the most
- improved methods of management, with full directions, adapted for
- the cottager, farmer, or scientific apiarian
-
-Author: Alfred Neighbor
-
-Release Date: June 9, 2022 [eBook #68269]
-
-Language: English
-
-Produced by: Tom Cosmas compiled from materials made available at The
- Internet Archive and placed in the Public Domain.
-
-*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE APIARY; OR, BEES,
-BEE-HIVES, AND BEE CULTURE (1865) ***
-
-
-
-
-
-Transcriber Note
-
-Text emphasis denoted by _Italics_ and =Bold=.
-
-
-
-
- THE APIARY
-
- OR,
-
- BEES, BEE-HIVES
-
- AND
-
- BEE CULTURE.
-
-
-
-
- THE APIARY;
-
- OR,
-
- BEES, BEE-HIVES,
-
- AND
-
- BEE CULTURE:
-
-
-
- BEING A FAMILIAR ACCOUNT OF THE HABITS OF BEES, AND THE MOST
- IMPROVED METHODS OF MANAGEMENT, WITH FULL DIRECTIONS,
- ADAPTED FOR THE COTTAGER, FARMER, OR,
- SCIENTIFIC APIARIAN.
-
-
-
- By ALFRED NEIGHBOUR.
-
-
-
- "Je connais beaucoup des personnes qu' aiment les abeilles,
- mais ne personnes aiment les mediocrement, ils les
- passionment."--Gelieu.
-
-
-
- LONDON:
-
- KENT AND CO., PATERNOSTER ROW
-
- GEO: NEIGHBOUR AND SONS,
-
- 149. REGENT STREET, AND 127, HIGH HOLBORN;
-
- AND ALL, BOOKSELLERS.
-
- 1865.
-
-
-
-
-TABLE OF CONTENTS.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
- Preface--Introductory 1
-
-
-SECTION I.
-
- The inhabitants of the hive 2
- The queen 2
- The drone 6
- The worker bee 8
- Eggs of bees 8
- Increase of bees 9
- Swarming 11
-
-SECTION II.--Modern Bee-Hives.
-
- Nutt's Collateral Hive 17
- Neighbour's Improved Single Box Hive 24
- Taylor's Amateur Shallow Box or Eight-bar Hive 26
- Taylor's Amateur Seven-bar Hive 27
- Neighbour's Improved Cottage 28
- Improved Cottage 31
- Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Bee-hive 32
- Cottagers' Hive for taking honey in straw
- caps without the destruction of the bees 34
- Woodbury Bar and Frame Hives:--
- Wood 36
- Straw 37
- Glass 38
- Frame 39
- Improved Comb Bar 39
- Compound Bar and Frame 40
- Cover 41
- Taylor's Improved Cottage Hive 43
- " Eight Bar Straw 43
- Neighbour's Unicomb Observatory Hive 44
- Woodbury " " " 46
- Huber's Hive 50
-
-
-SECTION III.--Exterior Arrangements and Apparatus.
-
-
- Bee House to contain two hives 53
- " " twelve hives 55
- " " nine hives 56
- Evening thoughts in January 56
- Exterior and interior of an Apiary 58
- Zinc Cover 59
- Ornamental Zinc Cover 59
- Cover of Zinc 60
- Bell Glasses 60
- Taylor's Glass 60
- Payne's Glass 61
- Bell Glass with lid 61
- Guide Comb for Glasses 61
- The New Bottle Feeder 63
- Round Bee Feeder 65
- Zinc Fountain Bee Feeder 65
- Nutt's Drawer Feeder 66
- Honey Cutters (13) 66
- Fumigator (11) 66
- Fumigator (12) 68
- Bee Dress or Protector 68
- Engraved Pressing Roller, for the guidance
- of bees in the construction of honey-comb
- on the bars 69
- Impressed Wax Sheets for artificial comb 70
-
-
-SECTION IV.
-
- Manipulation and uses of Bar and Frame Hives 73
- Putting on Super Hive 75
- Taking out Frames with Combs 76
- Artificial Swarming 79
- Driving 84
- Changing Old Stock to new Hives 86
- Weighing Hives, &c. 88
-
-
-SECTION V.--Miscellaneous Information.
-
- Stings: their Prevention and Cure 88
- Pollen or Food for Infant Bees 91
- Propolis or Bees' Cement 92
- Pasturage for Bees 93
- The Ligurian or Italian Alp Bee 95
- Living Bees at the International Exhibition of
- 1862, sending Bees to Australia, &c. 100
- Bee-keeping in London 102
- Wasps and Moths 106
- Draining Honey from the Combs 110
- General Remarks 110
- On the First Flight of Bees in Spring 116
-
-
-APPENDIX.--Testimonials of the Press.
-
- Great Exhibition of 1801:--
- From the "Cottage Gardener" 119
- " "Illustrated London News" 119
- " "Express" 121
- International Exhibition of 1802:--
- From the "Illustrated London News" 121
- " "Journal of Horticulture" 121
- " "Illustrated News of the World" 122
- " "Gardener's Weekly Magazine" 123
- Bath and West of England Agricultural Show at
- Exeter in June, 1863:--
- From the "Journal of Horticulture" 124
- " "Western Times" 124
- " "Devon Weekly Times" 126
- " "Exeter Gazette" 126
- Royal Agricultural Show, Newcastle, 1804:--
- From the "Northern Daily Express" 126
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-ERRATA.
-
- At second line from bottom of page 23, for "cottage" read
- "cottager."
-
- At page 30, fifth line from bottom, for "last page" read "page 25."
-
- At page 44, sixteenth line, for "_this_ plates of glass" read
- "_thin_ plates of glass."
-
- At page 53, fourteenth line, read "bee hive" for "bee house."
-
-[Transcriber Note: Above ERRATA corrections were applied.]
-
-
-EXPLANATIONS OMITTED.
-
- At page 62, "Hold the glass horizontally over the flame of the
- candle."
-
- At page 80, "An empty hive should be placed on the stand when the
- living hive is removed, for the purpose of amusing returning
- bees. If the hive is kept in a bee-house, the entrance should be
- shut down unto the hive is restored, when the clustered bees may
- be at once admitted."
-
-[Transcriber Note: Above EXPLANATIONS were placed.]
-
-
-
-
-PREFACE.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-Our apology for preparing a bee book is a very simple one.
-We are so frequently applied to for advice on matters connected with
-bees and bee-hives, that it seemed likely to prove a great advantage,
-alike to our correspondents and ourselves, if we could point to a
-"handy-book" of our own, which should contain full and detailed replies
-sufficient to meet all ordinary enquiries. Most of the apiarian manuals
-possess some special excellence or other, and we have no wish to
-disparage any of them. Yet in all, we have found a want of explanations
-relating to several of the more recent improvements.
-
-It has, more especially, been our aim to give explicit and detailed
-directions on most subjects connected with the hiving and removing
-of bees; and also, to show how, by judicious application of the
-"depriving" system, the productive powers of the bees may be enormously
-increased.
-
-We need say little here as to the interest that attaches to the apiary
-as a source of perennial pleasure for the amateur naturalist. Many
-of the hives and methods of management are described with a direct
-reference to this class of bee-keepers; so that, besides plain and
-simple directions suitable for cottagers with their ordinary hives,
-this work will be found to include instructions useful for the
-scientific apiarian, or, at least, valuable, for those who desire to
-gain a much wider acquaintance with the secrets of bee-keeping than is
-now usually possessed. We would lay stress on the term "acquaintance,"
-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 them. Such explicit directions are herein
-given as to how the right operations may be performed at the right
-times, that a novice may at once commence to use the modern hives.
-The word "new-fangled" has done good service for the indolent and
-prejudiced; but we trust that our readers will be of a very different
-class. Let them give a fair trial to the modern appliances for the
-humane and depriving system of bee-keeping, and they will find offered
-to them an entirely new field of interest and observation. At present,
-our continental neighbours far surpass us as bee-masters; but we trust
-that the season of 1865, if the summer be fine, will prove a turning
-point in the course of. English bee-keeping. 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 before.
-
-Our task would have lost half its interest, did we not hope that it
-would result in something beyond the encouragement of a refined and
-interesting amusement for the leisurely classes. The social importance
-of bee keeping as a source of pecuniary profit for small farmers and
-agricultural labourers, has never been appreciated as it deserves.
-Yet these persons will not, of themselves, lay aside the bungling and
-wasteful plan of destroying the bees, or learn without being taught the
-only proper method, that of deprivation. Their educated neighbours when
-once interested in bee-keeping, will be the persons to introduce the
-more profitable system of humane bee-keeping. The clergy, especially,
-as permanent residents in the country, may have great influence in
-this respect. There is not a rural or suburban parish in the kingdom
-in which bee-keeping might not be largely extended, and the well being
-of all but the very poorest inhabitants would be greatly promoted.
-Not only would the general practice of bee-keeping add largely to the
-national resources, but that addition would chiefly fall to the share
-of those classes to whom it would be of most value. Moreover, in the
-course of thus adding to their income, the uneducated classes would
-become interested in an elevating and instructive pursuit.
-
-It is curious to observe that honey, whether regarded as a manufactured
-article or as an agricultural product, is obtained under economical
-conditions of exceptional advantage. If regarded as a manufactured
-article, we notice that there is no outlay required for "labour," nor
-any expense for "raw material." The industrious labourers are eager to
-utilize all their strength: they never "combine" except for the benefit
-of their master, they never "strike" for wages, and they provide their
-own subsistence. All that the master manufacturer of honey has to do
-financially, is to make a little outlay for "fixed capital" in the
-needful "plant" of hives and utensils--no "floating capital" is needed.
-Then, on the other hand, if we regard honey as an agricultural product,
-it presents as such a still more striking contrast to the economists'
-theory of what are the "requisites of production." Not only is there no
-outlay needed for wages and none for raw material, but there is nothing
-to be paid for "use of a natural agent." Every square yard of land
-in the United Kingdom may come to be cultivated, as in China, but no
-proprietor will ever be able to claim "rent" for those "waste products"
-of the flowers and leaves, which none but the winged workers of the
-hive can ever utilize.
-
-The recent domestication in England of the Ligurian or "Italian Alp"
-bee adds a new and additional source of interest to bee-culture. We
-have, therefore, gone pretty fully into this part of the subject; 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 apiarians.[1]
-
-[Footnote 1: 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 bees. We can dispel these fears by stating that we have not
-unfrequently found that hybrid queens possess the surprising fecundity
-of the genuine Italian ones, whilst the English stocks in course of
-time become strengthened by the infusion of foreign blood.]
-
-We are under many obligations for the advice and assistance that we
-have on many occasions received from Mr. T. W. Woodbury, of Exeter,
-whose apiarian skill is unrivalled in this country. Our acknowledgments
-are also due to Mr. Henry Taylor, author of an excellent "Bee-Keeper's
-Manual," for his help and counsel during the earlier years of our
-apiarian experience. Both the before-mentioned gentlemen have freely
-communicated to us their contrivances and suggestions, without thought
-of fee or reward for them. In common with most recent writers on
-bee-culture, we are necessarily largely indebted to the standard works
-of Huber and succeeding apiarians. From the more recent volume of
-the Rev. L. L. Langstroth we have also obtained useful information.
-But having ourselves of later years had considerable experience in
-the manipulation and practical management of bees, we are enabled to
-confirm or qualify the statement of others, as well as to summarize
-information gleaned from many various sources. We should state that our
-thanks are due to Mr. W. Martin Wood, who has rendered us valuable aid
-in the arrangement of this work.
-
-Let it be understood that we have no _patented devices_ to push: we
-are free to choose out of the many apiarian contrivances that have
-been offered of late years, and we feel perfectly at liberty to praise
-or blame as our experience warrants us in doing. It does not follow
-that we necessarily disparage hives which are not described herein;
-we have sought, as much as possible, to indicate the _principles_ on
-which _good hives_ must be constructed, whatever their outward size or
-shape. All through the work, we have endeavoured to adopt the golden
-rule of "submission to nature," by reference to which all the fancied
-difficulties of bee-keeping may be easily overcome. In none of the
-attempts of men to hold sway over natural objects, is the truth of
-Bacon's leading doctrine more beautifully illustrated than in the power
-that the apiarian exercises in the little world of bees.
-
-There are one or two literary peculiarities of this work to which we
-ought to refer. It will be noticed that the numbers affixed to the
-names of the various hives and utensils do not follow in regular order.
-Those numbers refer to our Illustrated Catalogue, with which most
-English apiarians have long been familiar, and we could not alter them
-without great inconvenience.
-
-Some persons may consider we have used too many poetical quotations in
-a book dealing wholly with matters of fact. We trust, however, that
-an examination of the extracts will at once remove that feeling of
-objection.
-
-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 insects.
-Although bees have neither reason nor religion for their guide, yet
-from them man may learn many a lesson of virtue and industry, and may
-even draw from them thoughts suggestive of trust and faith in God.
-
-We beg leave to conclude our preface, and introduce the subject, by the
-following extract from Shakespeare,--who, without doubt, kept bees in
-that garden at Stratford wherein he used to meditate:--
-
- "So work the honey bees;
- Creatures, that by a rule in Nature, teach
- The art of order to a peopled kingdom.
- They have a king and officers of sorts;
- Where some, like magistrates, correct at home;
- Others, like merchants, venture trade abroad;
- Others, like soldiers, armed in their stings.
- Make boot upon the Summer's velvet buds.
- Which pillage they, with merry march, bring home
- To the tent royal of their emperor:
- Who, busied in his majesty, surveys
- The singing masons building roofs of gold;
- The civil citizens kneading up the honey;
- The poor mechanic porters crowding in
- Their heavy burdens at his narrow gate;
- The sad-eyed justice, with his surly hum,
- Delivering o'er to executors pale
- The lazy, yawning drone."--
-
- Shakespeare's _Henry V., Act I., Scene 2._
-
-
-
-
-THE APIARY;
-
-OR
-
-BEES, BEE-HIVES, & BEE CULTURE.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-There are two classes of persons for whom bee-culture should
-have a strong interest, and two distinct purposes for which the pursuit
-may be followed. First, there is the cottager or small farmer who,
-in thousands of instances, might add considerably to his income by
-bee-keeping; and secondly, there is the man of "retired leisure" and
-refinement, who, in the personal tendance of an apiary would find
-an easy and interesting occupation, and one which could not fail to
-quicken his faculties of general scientific observation. Moreover,
-in contemplating the wonderful skill, industry, and prevision of his
-insect artisans, the bee-keeper would find in his apiary constant
-illustrations of creative wisdom.
-
-Amongst the humbler classes in the rural districts, the neglect of
-bee-keeping is to be attributed to an exaggerated idea of the trouble
-needful for the care of a few hives, and also to ignorance of the
-easier and more profitable methods of modern management. Many of the
-wealthier country or suburban residents, also, are averse to the
-personal trouble which they fancy needful in keeping an apiary; and,
-perhaps, some gentlemen are more afraid than they would like to own
-of that very efficient weapon of defence with which the honey bee is
-provided. But the prejudices against bees are quite unnecessary; bees
-are as tractable as they are intelligent, and it is the purpose of this
-little book to show that bee-culture is an easy and safe, as well as a
-deeply interesting, pursuit. Possibly, also, some who do us the favour
-to read our detailed explanations, will see how the rural clergyman,
-or the benevolent landlord, who keeps an apiary of his own, may be
-of signal service to his poorer neighbours in explaining to them the
-mysteries of bee-keeping.
-
-
-I. THE INHABITANTS OF THE HIVE.
-
-Every hive or bee colony comprises three distinct classes of bees, each
-class having functions peculiar to itself, and which are essential
-to the well-being of the whole community. As each bee knows its own
-proper duties, they all work harmoniously and zealously together, for
-the common weal. Certain apparent exceptions to the good-fellowship of
-the bees will be hereafter noticed, but those arise out of essential
-conditions in the social economy of the bee community.
-
-The three classes of bees are:--the queen bee, with the pupæ or embryos
-intended for queens; the working bees; and the drones or male bees.
-
-The Queen.--Dr. Evans[2] introduces the queen bee to our
-notice thus:--
-
- First of the throng, and foremost of the whole,
- One 'stands confest the sovereign and the soul.'
-
-[Footnote 2: Dr. Evans,--who may be styled the poet-laureate of the
-bees,--lived at Shrewsbury, where he practiced as a physician. His poem
-on bees is written with great taste and careful elaboration, and it
-describes the habits of bees with a degree of accuracy only attainable
-after continuous scientific observation.]
-
-The queen may very readily be distinguished from the rest of the bees
-by the greater length of her body, and the comparative shortness of her
-wings; her legs are longer, and are not furnished with either brushes
-or baskets as those of the working bee, for being constantly fed by
-the latter, she does not need those implements; the upper surface of
-her body is of a brighter black than the other bees, whilst her colour
-underneath is a yellowish brown; her wings, which do not extend more
-than half the length of her body, are sinewy and strong; her long
-abdomen tapers nearly to a point; her head is rounder, her tongue more
-slender, and not nearly so long, as that of the working bee, and her
-sting is curved; her movements are measured and majestic, as she moves
-in the hive the other bees form a circle round her, none venturing to
-turn their backs upon her, but all anxious to show that respect and
-attention due to her rank and station. Whenever in the exercise of her
-sovereign will the queen wishes to travel amongst her subjects, she
-experiences no inconvenience from overcrowding; although the part of
-the hive to which she is journeying may be the most populous, way is
-immediately made, the common bees tumbling over each other to get out
-of her way, so great is their anxiety not to interfere with the royal
-progress.
-
-It is the chief function of the queen to lay the eggs from which all
-future bees originate, the multiplication of the species being the
-purpose of her existence, and she follows it up with an assiduity
-similar to that with which the workers construct combs or collect
-honey. A queen is estimated to lay in the breeding season from 1,500 to
-2,000 eggs a-day, and in the course of one year is supposed to produce
-more than 100,000 bees. This is indeed a vast number; but when there
-is taken into consideration the great number required for swarms, the
-constant lessening of their strength by death in various ways, and the
-many casualties attending them in their distant travels in search of
-the luscious store, it does not seem that the case is over stated.
-
-In a Glass Unicomb Hive,--which we shall hereinafter describe,--all the
-movements of the queen-bee may be traced; she may be seen thrusting
-her head into a cell to discover whether it be occupied with an egg or
-honey, and if empty, she turns round in a dignified manner and inserts
-her long body--so long, that she is able to deposit the egg at the
-bottom of the cell; she then passes on to another, and so continues
-industriously multiplying her laborious subjects. It not unfrequently
-happens when the queen is prolific, and if it be an early season, that
-many eggs are wasted for want of unoccupied cells; for in that case
-the queen leaves them exposed at the bottom of the hive when they
-are greedily devoured by the bees. The queen-bee, unlike the great
-majority of her subjects, is a stayer at home; generally speaking, she
-only quits the hive twice in her life. The first occasion is on the
-all-important day of her marriage, which always takes place at a great
-height in the air, and generally on the second or third day of her
-princess-life; she never afterwards leaves the hive, except to lead off
-an emigrating swarm. Evans, with proper loyalty, has duly furnished a
-glowing epithalamium for the queen-bee:--thus.
-
- When noon-tide Sirius glares on high,
- Young love ascends the glowing sky,
- From vein to vein swift shoots prolific fire.
- And thrills each insect fibre with desire;
- Then Nature to fulfil thy prime decree,
- Wheels round in wanton rings, the courtier Bee;
- Now shyly distant, now with bolder air,
- He woos and wins the all-complying fair;
- Through fields of ether, veiled in vap'ry gloom
- They seek, with amorous haste, the nuptial room;
- As erst the immortal pair, on Ida's height,
- wreath'd round their noon of joy, ambrosial night,
-
-The loyalty and attachment of bees to their queen is one of their most
-remarkable characteristics; they constantly supply her with food, and
-fawn upon and caress her, softly touching her with their antennæ, a
-favour which she occasionally returns. When she moves about the hive,
-all the bees through whom she successively passes pay her the same
-homage; those whom she leaves behind in her track close together, and
-resume their accustomed occupations.
-
-The majestic deportment of the queen-bee and the homage paid to her is,
-with a little poetic license, thus described by Evans:--
-
- But mark of royal port and awful mien.
- Where moves with measured pace the insect Queen!
- Twelve chosen guards, with slow and solemn gait.
- Bend at her nod, and round her person wait.
-
-This homage is, however, only paid to matron queens.
-Whilst they continue princesses, they receive no distinctive marks
-of respect. Dr. Dunbar, the noted Scotch apiarian, observed a very
-striking instance of this whilst experimenting on the combative
-qualities of the queen-bee. "So long," says he, "as the queen which
-survived the rencontre with her rival, remained a virgin, not the
-slightest degree of respect or attention was paid her--not a single bee
-gave her food; she was obliged, as often as she required it, to help
-herself; and in crossing the honey cells for that purpose, she had to
-scramble, often with difficulty, over the crowd, not an individual of
-which got out of her way, or seemed to care whether she fed or starved;
-but no sooner did she become a mother, than the scene was changed, and
-all testified towards her that most affectionate attention, which is
-uniformly exhibited to fertile queens."
-
-The queen-bee, though provided with a sting, never uses it on any
-account, except in combat with her sister queens. But she admits of
-no rival to her throne; almost her first act on coming forth from the
-cell, is an attempt to tear open and destroy the cells containing the
-pupæ of princesses likely to become competitors. Should it so happen
-that another queen of similar age does exist in the hive at the
-same time, the two are speedily brought into contact with each other
-in order to fight it out and decide by a struggle, mortal to one of
-them, which is to be the ruler;--the stronger of course is victorious,
-and remains supreme. This, it must be admitted, is a wiser method of
-settling the affair than it would be to range the whole band under two
-distinct banners, and so create a civil war, killing and destroying
-each other for matters with which they individually have little or no
-concern: for the bees care not which queen it is, as long as they are
-certain of having one to rule over them and perpetuate the community.
-
-After perusing the description given above of the attachment of bees
-to their queen, it may be easy to imagine the consternation a hive
-is thrown into when deprived of her presence. The bees first make a
-diligent search for their monarch in the hive, and then afterwards rush
-forth in immense numbers to seek her. When such a commotion is observed
-in an apiary, the experienced bee-master will repair the loss by giving
-a queen: the bees have generally their own remedy for such a calamity,
-in their power of raising a new queen from amongst their larvæ; but
-if neither of these means be available, the whole colony dwindles and
-dies. The following is the method by which working bees provide a
-successor to the throne when deprived of their queen by accident, or in
-anticipation of the first swarm, which is always led by the old queen:--
-
-They select, when not more than three days old, an egg or grub
-previously intended for a worker-bee, and then enlarge the cell so
-selected by destroying the surrounding partitions; they thus form a
-royal cradle, in shape very much like an acorn cup inverted. The chosen
-embryo is then fed liberally with a peculiar description of nurture,
-called by naturalists "royal jelly"--a pungent food, prepared by the
-working bees exclusively for those of the larvæ that are destined to
-become candidates for the honour of royalty. Should a queen be forcibly
-separated from her subjects, she resents the interference, refuses
-food, pines, and dies.
-
-The whole natural history of the queen-bee is in itself a subject that
-will well repay for continuous study. Those who desire to follow it, we
-would refer to the complete works of Huber--the greatest of
-apiarians,--Swammerdam, Bevan, Langstroth,
-&c. The observations upon the queen-bee needful to verify the above
-mentioned facts can only be made in hives constructed for the purpose,
-of which our "Unicomb Observatory Hive" is one of the best. In ordinary
-hives the queen is scarcely ever to be seen; where there are several
-rows of comb, she invariably keeps between them, both for warmth and
-to be more secure from danger. The writer has frequently observed in
-stocks which have unfortunately died, that the queen was one of the
-last to expire; and she is always more difficult to gain possession of
-than other bees, being by instinct taught that she is indispensable to
-the welfare of her subjects.
-
-The queen enjoys a far longer life than any of her subjects, her age
-generally extending to four or even five years. The drones, which are
-mostly hatched in the early spring, seldom live more than three or
-four months, even if they should escape the sting of the executioner,
-to which they generally fall victims. The worker-bee, it is now a
-well-ascertained fact, lives from six to eight months, in no case
-exceeding the latter; so that we may reckon that the bees hatched in
-April and May expire about the end of the year, and it is those of the
-autumn who carry on the duties of the hive until the spring and summer,
-that being the time when the greatest number of eggs are laid. The
-population of a hive is very small during the winter, in comparison
-with the vast numbers gathering produce in the summer,--produce which
-they themselves live to enjoy but for a short period. So that not only,
-as of old, may lessons of industry be learned from bees, but they also
-teach self-denial to mankind, since they labour for the community
-rather than for themselves. Evans, in describing the age of bees, thus
-paraphrases the well known couplet of Homer in allusion to the fleeting
-generations of men:--
-
- Like leaves on trees, the race of bees is found,
- Now green in youth, now withering on the ground;
- Another race the spring or fall supplies.
- They droop successive, and successive rise.
-
-The Drone.--The drones are male bees; they possess no sting,
-are more hairy and larger than the common bee, and may be easily
-distinguished by their heavy motion, thick-set form, and louder
-humming. Evans thus describes the drones:--
-
- Their short proboscis sips.
- No luscious nectar from the wild thyme's lips;
- From the lime leaf no amber drops they steal.
- Not bear their grooveless thighs the foodful meal:
- On others' toils in pampered leisure thrive,
- The lazy fathers of the industrious hive;
- Yet oft, we're told, these seeming idlers share
- The pleasing duties of parental care;
- With fond attention guard each genial cell,
- And watch the embryo bursting from the shell.
-
-But Dr. Evans had been "told" what was not correct when he sought to
-dignify drones with the office of "nursing fathers,"--that task is
-undertaken by the younger of the working-bees. No occupation falls
-to the lot of the drones in gathering honey, nor have they the means
-provided them by nature for assisting in the labours of the hive. The
-drones are the progenitors of working bees, and nothing more; so far as
-is known, that is the only purpose of their short existence.
-
-In a well-populated hive the number of drones is computed at from
-one to two thousand. "Naturalists," says Huber, "have been extremely
-embarrassed to account for the number of males in most hives, and
-which seem only a burden to the community, since they appear to
-fulfil no function. But we now begin to discern the object of nature
-in multiplying them to such an extent. As fecundation cannot be
-accomplished within the hive, and as the queen is obliged to traverse
-the expanse of the atmosphere, it is requisite that the males should
-be numerous, that she may have the chance of meeting some one of them
-in her flight. Were only two or three in each hive, there would be
-little probability of their departure at the same instant with the
-queen, or that they would meet her in their excursions; and most
-of the females might thus remain sterile." It is important for the
-safety of the queen-bee that her stay in the air should be as brief
-as possible: her large size, and the slowness of her flight, render
-her an easy prey to birds. It is not now thought that the queen always
-pairs with a drone of the same hive, as Huber seems to have supposed.
-Once impregnated,--as is the case with most insects,--the queen-bee
-continues productive during the remainder of her existence. It has,
-however, been found that though old queens cease to lay worker eggs,
-they may continue to lay those of drones. The swarming season being
-over, that is about the end of July, a general massacre of the "lazy
-fathers" takes place. Dr. Bevan, in the "Honey Bee," observes on this
-point, "the work of the drones being now completed, they are regarded
-as useless consumers of the fruits of others' labour, love is at once
-converted into hate, and a general proscription takes place. The
-unfortunate victims evidently perceive their danger, for they are
-never, at this time, seen resting in one place, but darting in and
-out of the hive with the utmost precipitation, as if in fear of being
-seized."
-
-Their destruction is thought, by some, to be caused by their being
-harassed until they quit the hive; but Huber says he ascertained that
-the death of the drones was caused by the stings of the workers.
-Supposing the drones come forth in May, which is the average period
-of their being hatched, their destruction takes place somewhere about
-the commencement of August, so that three months is the usual extent
-of their existence; but should it so happen that the usual development
-of the queen has been retarded, or that the hive has in any case
-been deprived of her, the massacre of the drones is deferred. But in
-any case, the natural term of the life of drone bees does not exceed
-four months, so that they are all dead before the winter, and are not
-allowed to be useless consumers of the general store.
-
-The Worker Bee.--The working bees form, by far, the most
-numerous class of the three kinds contained in the hive, and least of
-all require description. They are the smallest of the bees, are dark
-brown in colour or nearly black, and much more active on the wing than
-are either drones or queens. The usual number in a healthy hive varies
-from twelve to thirty thousand; and, previous to swarming, exceeds the
-larger number. The worker-bee is of the same sex as the queen, but is
-only partially developed. Any egg of a worker-bee,--by the cell being
-enlarged, as already described, and the "royal jelly" being supplied
-to the larva,--may be hatched into a mature and perfect queen. This,
-one of the most curious facts connected with the natural history of
-bees, may be verified in any apiary by most interesting experiments,
-which may be turned to important use. With regard to the supposed
-distinctions between "nursing" and working bees, it is now agreed that
-it only consists in a division of labour,--the young workers staying
-at home to feed the larvæ until they are themselves vigorous enough
-to range the fields in quest of supplies. But, for many details of
-unfailing interest, we must again refer our readers to the standard
-works on bees that have already been named.
-
-The Eggs of Bees.--It is necessary that some explanation
-should be given as to the existence of the bee before it emerges from
-the cell.
-
-The eggs of all the three kinds of bees when first deposited are of an
-oval shape, and of a bluish-white colour. In four or five days the egg
-changes to a worm, and in this stage is known by the names of larva
-or grub, in which state it remains four to six days more; during this
-period it is fed by the nurse-bees with a mixture of farina and honey,
-a constant supply of which is given to it: the next transformation is
-to the nymph or pupa form; the nurse-bees now seal up the cell with a
-preparation similar to wax; and then the pupa spins round itself
-a film or cocoon, just as a silkworm does in its chrysalis state. The
-microscope shows that this cradle-curtain is perforated with very
-minute holes, through which the baby-bee is duly supplied with air. No
-further attention on the part of the bees is now requisite except a
-proper degree of heat, which they take care to keep up, a position for
-the breeding cells being selected in the centre of the hive where the
-temperature is likely to be most congenial.
-
-Twenty-one days after the egg is first laid (unless cold weather should
-have retarded it) the bee quits the pupa state, and nibbling its way
-through the waxen covering that has enclosed it, comes forth a winged
-insect. In the Unicomb Observatory Hive, the young bees may distinctly
-be seen as they literally fight their way into the world, for the other
-bees do not take the slightest notice, nor afford them any assistance.
-We have frequently been amused in watching the eager little new-comer,
-now obtruding its head, and anon compelled to withdraw into the cell,
-to escape being trampled on by the apparently unfeeling throng, until
-at last it has succeeded in making its exit. The little grey creature,
-after brushing and shaking itself, enters upon its duties in the hive,
-and in a day or two may be seen gathering honey in the fields--some
-say on the day of its birth,--thus early illustrating that character
-for industry, which has been proverbial, at least, since the days of
-Aristotle, and which has in our day been rendered familiar even to
-infant minds through the nursery rhymes of Dr. Watts.
-
-Increase of Bees.--Every one is familiar with the natural
-process of "swarming," by which bees provide themselves with fresh
-space and seek to plant colonies to absorb their increase of
-population. But the object of the bee-master is to train and educate
-his bees, and in so doing he avoids much of the risk and trouble which
-is incurred by allowing the busy folk to follow their own devices. The
-various methods for this end adopted by apiarians all come under the
-term of the "depriving" system; and they form part of the great object
-of humane and economical bee-keeping, which is to save the bees alive
-instead of slaughtering them as under the old clumsy system. A very
-natural question is often asked,--how it is that upon the depriving
-system, where our object is to prevent swarming, the increase of
-numbers is not so great as upon the old plan? It will be seen that the
-laying of eggs is performed by the queen only, and that there is but
-one queen to each hive; so that where swarming is prevented, there
-remains only one hive or stock, as the superfluous princesses are not
-allowed to come to maturity. Our plan of giving additional store-room
-will, generally speaking, prevent swarming; this stay-at-home policy,
-we contend, is an advantage, for instead of the loss of time consequent
-upon a swarm hanging out preparatory to flight, all the bees are
-engaged in collecting honey, and that at a time when the weather is
-most favourable and the food most abundant. Upon the old system, the
-swarm leaves the hive simply because the dwelling has not been enlarged
-at the time when the bees are increasing. The emigrants are always led
-off by the old queen, leaving either young or embryo queens to lead off
-after swarms, and to furnish a mistress for the old stock, and carry
-on the multiplication of the species. Upon the antiquated and inhuman
-plan where so great a destruction takes place by the brimstone match,
-breeding must, of course, be allowed to go on to its full extent to
-make up for such sacrifices. Our chief object under the new system is
-to obtain honey free from all extraneous matter. Pure honey cannot be
-gathered from combs where storing and breeding are performed in the
-same compartment. For fuller explanations on this point, we refer to
-the various descriptions of our improved hives in a subsequent section
-of this work.
-
-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 hour." The ancients in Greece
-and Italy took the surplus honey and spared the bees, and now for every
-intelligent bee-keeper there are ample appliances wherewith to attain
-the same results. Mr. Langstroth quotes from the German the following
-epitaph which, he says, "might be properly placed over every pit of
-brimstoned bees:"--
-
- Here Rests,
-
- CUT OFF FROM USEFUL LABOUR,
-
- A COLONY OF
-
- INDUSTRIOUS BEES,
-
- BASELY MURDERED
-
- BY ITS
-
- UNGRATEFUL AND IGNORANT OWNER.
-
-
-And Thomson, the poet of "The Seasons," has recorded an eloquent poetic
-protest against the barbarous practice, for which, however, in his day
-there was no alternative:--
-
- All, see, where robbed and murdered in that pit,
- Lies the still heaving hive! at evening snatched,
- Beneath the cloud of guilt-concealing night,
- And fix'd o'er sulphur! while, not dreaming ill,
- The happy people, in their waxen cells,
- Sat tending public cares.
- Sudden, the dark, oppressive steam ascends.
- And, used to milder scents, the tender race.
- By thousands, tumble from their honied dome
- Into a gulf of blue sulphureous flame!
-
-It will be our pleasing task in subsequent chapters to show "a more
-excellent way."
-
-
-SWARMING.
-
-The spring is the best period at which to open an apiary, and
-swarming-time is a good starting point for the new bee-keeper. The
-period known as the swarming season is during the months of May and
-June. With a very forward stock, and in exceedingly fine weather, bees
-do occasionally swarm in April. The earlier the swarm the greater is
-its value. If bees swarm in July, they seldom gather sufficient to
-sustain themselves through the winter; though, by careful feeding, they
-may easily be kept alive, if hived early in the month.
-
-The cause of a swarm leaving the stock-hive is, that the population has
-grown too large for it. Swarming is a provision of nature for remedying
-the inconvenience of overcrowding, and is the method whereby the bees
-seek for space in which to increase their stores. By putting on "super
-hives," the required relief may, in many cases, be given to them; but
-should the multiplication of stocks be desired, the bee-keeper will
-defer increasing the space until the swarm has issued forth. In May,
-when the spring has been fine, the queen-bee is very active in laying
-eggs, and the increase in a strong healthy hive is so prodigious that
-emigration is necessary, or the bees would cease to work.
-
-It is now a well established fact that the old queen goes forth with
-the first swarm, preparation having been made to supply her place as
-soon as the bees determine upon the necessity of a division of their
-commonwealth. Thus the sovereignty of the old hive, after the first
-swarm has issued, devolves upon a young queen.
-
-As soon as the swarm builds combs in its new abode, the emigrant-queen,
-being impregnated and her ovaries full, begins laying eggs in the
-cells, and thereby speedily multiplies the labourers of the new
-colony. Although there is now amongst apiarians no doubt that the old
-queen quits her home, there is no rule as to the composition of the
-swarm--old and young alike depart. Some show unmistakable signs of age
-by their ragged wings, others their extreme youth by their lighter
-colour; how they determine which shall stay and which shall go has not
-yet been ascertained. In preparation for flight, bees commence filling
-their honey bags, taking sufficient, it is said, for three days'
-sustenance. This store is needful, not only for food, but to enable
-the bees to commence the secretion of wax and the building of combs in
-their new domicile.
-
-On the day of emigration the weather must be fine, warm, and clear,
-with but little wind stirring; for the old queen, like a prudent
-matron, will not venture out unless the day is in every way favorable.
-Whilst her majesty hesitates, either for the reasons we have mentioned,
-or because the internal arrangements are not sufficiently matured, the
-bees will often fly about or hang in clusters at the entrance of the
-hive for two or three days and nights together, all labour meanwhile
-being suspended. The agitation of the little folk is well described by
-Evans:--
-
- See where, with hurried step, the impassioned throng
- Pace o'er the hive, and seem, with plaintive song,
- T' invite the loitering queen; now range the floor,
- And hang in cluster'd columns from the door;
- Or now in restless rings around they fly,
- Nor spoil thy sip, nor load the hollowed thigh;
- E'en the dull drone his wonted ease gives o'er,
- Haps his unwieldly wings, and longs to soar.
-
-But when all is ready, a scene of the most violent agitation takes
-place; the bees rush out in vast numbers, forming quite a dark cloud as
-they traverse the air.
-
-The time selected for the departure of the emigrants is generally
-between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.; most swarms come off within an hour of
-noon. It is a very general remark that bees choose a Sunday for
-swarming, and probably this is because then greater stillness reigns
-around. It will not be difficult to imagine that the careful bee-keeper
-is anxious to keep a strict watch, lest he should lose such a treasure
-when once it takes wing. The exciting scene at a bee-swarming has been
-well described by the apiarian laureate:--
-
- Up mounts the chief, and, to the cheated eye,
- Ten thousand shuttles dart along the sky;
- As swift through æther rise the rushing swarms,
- Gay dancing to the beam their sunbright forms;
- And each thin form, still lingering on the sight.
- Trails as it shoots, a line of silver light.
- High poised on buoyant wing, the thoughtful queen,
- In gaze attentive, views the varied scene,
- And soon her far-fetched ken discerns below;
- The light laburuam lift her polished brow.
- Wave her green leafy ringlets o'er the glade.
- Swift as the falcon's sweep, the monarch bends
- Her flight abrupt; the following host descends
- Round the fine twig, like clustered grapes they close
- In thickening wreaths, and court a short repose.
-
-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 key. This is done with
-the absurd notion that the bees are charmed with the clangorous din,
-and may by it be induced to settle as near as possible to the source
-of such sweet sounds. This is, however, quite a mistake; there are
-other and better means for the purpose. The practice of ringing was
-originally adopted for a different and far more sensible object,
-viz., for the purpose of giving notice that a swarm had issued forth,
-and that the owner was anxious to claim the right of following, even
-though it should alight on a neighbour's premises. It would DC curious
-to trace how this ancient ceremony has thus got corrupted from the
-original design.
-
-In case the bees do not speedily after swarming manifest signs of
-settling, a few handfuls of sand or loose mould may be thrown up in the
-air so as to fall among the winged throng; they mistake this for rain,
-and then very quickly determine upon settling. Some persons squirt a
-little water from a garden engine in order to produce the same effect.
-
-There are, indeed, many ingenious devices used by apiarians for
-decoying the swarms. Mr. Langstroth mentions a plan of stringing dead
-bees together, and tying a bunch of them on any shrub or low tree upon
-which it is desirable that they should alight; another plan is, to
-hang some black woven material near the hives, so that the swarming
-bees may be led to suppose they see another colony, to which they will
-hasten to attach themselves. Swarms have a great affinity for each
-other when they are adrift in the air; but, of course, when the union
-has been effected, the rival queens have to do battle for supremacy. A
-more ingenious device than any of the above, is by means of a mirror to
-flash a reflection of the sun's rays amongst a swarm, which bewilders
-the bees, and checks their flight. It is manifestly often desirable
-to use some of these endeavours to induce early settlement, and to
-prevent, if possible, the bees from clustering in high trees or under
-the eaves of houses, where it may be difficult to hive them.
-
-Should prompt measures not be taken to hive the bees as soon as the
-cluster is well formed, there is danger of their starting on a second
-flight; and this is what the apiarian has so much to dread. If the bees
-set off a second time, it is generally for a long flight, often for
-miles, so that in such a case it is usually impossible to follow them,
-and consequently a valuable colony may be irretrievably lost.
-
-Too much care cannot be exercised to prevent the sun's rays falling
-on a swarm when it has once settled. If exposed to heat in this way,
-bees are very likely to decamp. We have frequently stretched matting or
-sheeting on poles so as to intercept the glare, and thus render their
-temporary position cool and comfortable.
-
-Two swarms sometimes depart at the same time and join together; in such
-a case, we recommend that they be treated as one by putting them into a
-hive as before described, taking care to give abundant room, and not to
-delay affording access to the super hive or glasses. They will settle
-their own notions of sovereignty by one queen destroying the other.
-There are means of separating two swarms if done at the time; but the
-operation is a formidable one, and does not always repay even those
-most accustomed to such manipulation.
-
-With regard to preparations for taking a swarm, our advice to the
-bee-keeper must be the reverse of Mrs. Glass's notable injunction as
-to the cooking of a hare. Some time before you expect to take a swarm,
-be sure to have a proper hive in which to take it, and also every
-other requisite properly ready. Here we will explain what was said
-in the introduction as to the safety of moving and handling bees. A
-bee-veil or dress will preserve the most sensitive from the possibility
-of being stung. This article, which may be bought with the hives, is
-made of net close enough to exclude bees, but open enough for the
-operator's vision. It is made to go over the hat of a lady or cap of a
-gentleman; it can be tied round the waist, and has sleeves fastening at
-the wrist. A pair of photographer's india rubber gloves completes the
-full dress of the apiarian, who is then invulnerable even to enraged
-bees. But bees when swarming are in an eminently peaceful frame of
-mind; having dined sumptuously, they require to be positively provoked
-before they will sting. Yet there may be one or two foolish bees who,
-having neglected to fill their honey bags, are inclined to vent their
-ill-humour on the kind apiarian. When all is ready, the new hive is
-held or placed in an inverted position under the cluster of bees, which
-the operator detaches from their perch with one or two quick shakes;
-the floorboard is then placed on the hive, which is then slowly turned
-up on to its base, and it is well to leave it a short time in the same
-place, in order to allow of stragglers joining their companions.
-
-If the new swarm is intended for transportation to a distance, it is
-as well for it to be left at the same spot until evening, provided the
-sun is shaded from it: but if the hive is meant to stand in or near
-the same garden, it is better to remove it within half an hour to its
-permanent position, because so eager are newly-swarmed bees for pushing
-forward the work of furnishing their empty house, that they sally forth
-at once in search of materials.
-
-A swarm of bees in their natural state contains from 10,000 to 20,000
-insects, whilst in an established hive they number 40,000 and upwards.
-5,000 bees are said to weigh one pound; a good swarm will weigh from
-three to five pounds. We have known swarms not heavier than 2½ pounds,
-that were in very excellent condition in August as regards store for
-the winter.
-
-Hitherto, all our remarks have had reference to first or "prime"
-swarms; these are the best, and when a swarm is purchased such should
-be bargained for.
-
-Second swarms, known amongst cottage bee-keepers as "casts," usually
-issue from the hive nine or ten days after the first has departed.
-It is not always that a second swarm issues, so much depends on the
-strength of the stock, the weather, and other causes; but should the
-bees determine to throw out another, the first hatched queen in the
-stock-hive is prevented by her subjects from destroying the other
-royal princesses, as she would do if left to her own devices. The
-consequence is that, like some people who cannot have their own way,
-she is highly indignant; and when thwarted in her purpose, utters, in
-quick succession, shrill, angry sounds, much resembling "_peep, peep_,"
-commonly called "piping," but which more courtly apiarians have styled
-the _vox regalis_.
-
-This royal wailing continues during the evening, and is sometimes so
-loud as to be distinctly audible many yards from the hive. When this is
-the case, a swarm may be expected either on the next day, or at latest
-within three days. The second swarm is not quite so chary of weather as
-the first; it was the old lady who exercised so much caution, disliking
-to leave home except in the best of summer weather.
-
-In some instances, owing to favourable breeding seasons and prolific
-queens, a third swarm issues from the hive, this is termed a "colt;"
-and in remarkable instances, even a fourth, which in rustic phrase is
-designated a "filly." A swarm from a swarm is called a "maiden" swarm,
-and according to bee theory, will again have the old queen for its
-leader.
-
-The bee-master should endeavour to prevent his labourers from swarming
-more than once; his policy is rather to encourage the industrious
-gathering of honey by keeping a good supply of "supers" on the hives.
-Sometimes, however, he may err in putting on the supers too early or
-unduly late, and the bees will then swarm a second time, instead of
-making use of the store-rooms thus provided. In such a case, the clever
-apiarian, having spread the swarm on the ground, will select the queen,
-and cause the bees to go back to the hive from whence they came. This
-operation requires an amount of apiarian skill which, though it may
-easily be attained, is greater than is usually possessed.
-
-
-
-
-II. MODERN BEE HIVES.
-
-
-NUTT'S COLLATERAL HIVE. No. 1.
-
-The late Mr. Nutt, author of "Humanity to Honey Bees," may be
-regarded as a pioneer of modern apiarians; we therefore select his
-hive wherewith to begin a description of those we have confidence in
-recommending. Besides, an account of Mr. Nutt's hive will necessarily
-include references to the various principles which subsequent inventors
-have kept in view.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Nutt's Collateral Hive consists of three boxes placed side by side (C.
-A. C), with an octagonal box B on the top which covers a bell-glass.
-Each of the three boxes is 9 inches high, 9 inches wide, and 11
-inches from back to front; thin wooden partitions,--in which six or
-seven openings corresponding with each other are made--divide these
-compartments, so that free access from one box to the other is afforded
-to the bees; this communication is stopped when necessary by a zinc
-slide passing down between each box. The octagonal cover B is about 10
-inches in diameter and 20 high, including the sloping octagonal roof,
-surmounted with an acorn as a finish. There are two large windows in
-each of the end boxes, and one smaller one in the centre box; across
-the latter is a thermometer scaled and marked, so as to be an easy
-guide to the bee-master, showing him by the rise in temperature the
-increased accommodation required. This thermometer is a fixture, the
-indicating part being protected by two pieces of glass, to prevent the
-bees from coming between it and the window, and thereby obstructing the
-view.
-
-D D are ventilators. In the centre of each of the end boxes is a
-double zinc tube reaching down a little below the middle, the outer
-tube is a casing of plain zinc, with holes about a quarter of an inch
-wide dispersed over it; the inside one is of perforated zinc, with
-openings so small as to prevent the escape of the bees, a flange or
-rim keeps the tubes suspended through a hole made to receive it. The
-object in having double tubing, is to allow the inner one to be drawn
-up and the perforations to be opened by pricking out the wax, or rather
-the propolis, with which bees close all openings in their hives. These
-tubes admit a thermometer enclosed in a cylindrical glass, to be
-occasionally inserted during the gathering season; it requires to be
-left in the tube for about a quarter of an hour; and on its withdrawal,
-if found indicating 90 degrees or more, ventilation must be adopted to
-lower the temperature--the ornamental zinc top D must be left raised,
-and is easily kept in that position by putting the perforated part a
-little on one side.
-
-The boxes before described are placed on a raised double floor-board,
-extending the whole length, viz., about 36 inches. The floor-board
-projects a few inches in front. In the centre is the entrance;--as our
-engraving only shows the back of the hive, we must imagine it on the
-other side,--it is made by cutting a sunken way of about half-an-inch
-deep and 3 inches wide, in the floor-board communicating only with
-the middle box; it is through this entrance alone that the bees find
-their way into the hive,--access to the end boxes and the super
-being obtained from the inside. An alighting board is fitted close
-under the entrance for the bees to settle upon when returning laden
-with honey; this alighting board is removable for the convenience of
-packing. The centre, or stock-box, A, called by Mr. Nutt the Pavilion
-of Nature, is the receptacle for the swarm; for stocking this, it will
-be necessary to tack the side tins so as to close the side openings
-in the partition, and to tack some perforated zinc over the holes at
-top; the swarm may then be hived into it just the same as with a common
-hive. A temporary bottom-board may be used if the box has to be sent
-any distance; or a cloth may be tied round to close the bottom (the
-latter plan is best, because allowing plenty of air), and when brought
-home at night, the bees being clustered at the top, the cloth or
-temporary bottom must be removed, and the box gently placed on its own
-floor-board, and the hive set in the place it is permanently to occupy.
-E E are two block fronts which open with a hinge, a semicircular hole
-3 inches long, 2 wide in the middle, is cut in the upper bottom-board
-immediately under the window of each box; these apertures are closed by
-separate perforated zinc slides; these blocks, when opened, afford a
-ready means of reducing the temperature of the side boxes, a current of
-air being quickly obtained, and are also useful for allowing the bees
-to throw out any refuse.
-
-The centre F is a drawer in which is a feeding trough, so constructed
-that the bees can descend through the opening before mentioned on
-to a false bottom of perforated zinc; liquid food is readily poured
-in by pulling out the drawer a little way, the bees come down on to
-the perforated zinc and take the food by inserting their proboscis
-through the perforations, with no danger of being drowned. Care must be
-exercised that the food is not given in such quantity as to come above
-the holes; by this means, each hive has a supply of food accessible
-only to the inmates, with no possibility, when closely shut in, of
-attracting robber bees from other hives.
-
-The exterior of these hives is _well_ painted with two coats of lead
-colour, covered with two coats of green, and varnished. Notwithstanding
-this preservation, it is absolutely essential to place such a hive
-under a shed or cover of some sort, as the action of the sun and rain
-is likely to cause the wood to decay, whilst the extreme heat of a
-summer sun might cause the combs to fall from their foundations.
-
-Neat and tasteful sheds may be erected, either of zinc supported by
-iron or wooden rods, or a thatched roof may be supported in the same
-manner, and will form a pretty addition to the flower garden.
-
-When erecting a covering, it will be well to make it a foot or two
-longer, so as to allow of a cottage hive on either side, as the
-appearance of the whole is much improved by such an arrangement.
-
-The following directions, with some adaptation, are from "Nutt on Honey
-Bees:"--
-
-In the middle box the bees are to be first placed;--in it they should
-first construct their beautiful combs, and under the government of
-one sovereign--the mother of the hive--carry on their curious work,
-and display their astonishing architectural ingenuity. In this box,
-the _regina_ of the colony, surrounded by her industrious, happy,
-humming subjects, carries on the propagation of her species, deposits
-in the cells prepared for the purpose by the other bees, thousands of
-eggs, though she seldom deposits more than one egg in a cell at a
-time: these eggs are nursed up into a numerous progeny by the other
-inhabitants of the hive. It is at this time, when hundreds of young
-bees are daily coming into existence, that the collateral boxes are
-of the utmost importance--both to the bees domiciled in them, and to
-their proprietors; for when the brood become perfect bees in a common
-cottager's hive, a swarm is the necessary consequence. The queen,
-accompanied by a vast number of her subjects, leaves the colony,
-and seeks some other place in which to carry on the work nature has
-assigned her. But as swarming may by proper precaution and attention
-to this mode of management generally be prevented, it is good practice
-to do so; because the time necessarily required to establish a new
-colony, even supposing the cottager succeeds in saving the swarm,
-would otherwise be employed in collecting honey, and in enriching the
-old hive. Here, then, is one of the features of this plan--viz., _the
-prevention of swarming_. When symptoms of swarming begin to present
-themselves, which may be known by an unusual noise, the appearance
-of more than common activity among the bees in the middle box, and,
-above all, by a sudden rise of temperature, which will be indicated
-by the quicksilver in the thermometer rising to 75 degrees as scaled
-on the thermometer in the box; when these symptoms are apparent, the
-bee master may conclude that additional space is required. The top
-sliding tin should now be withdrawn from under the bell glass, which
-will open to the bees a new store-room; this they will soon occupy, and
-fill with combs and honey of pure whiteness, if the weather be fine to
-allow of their uninterrupted labour. It may be well here to mention,
-that if the glass have a small piece of clean worker comb attached to
-the perforated ventilating tube, the bees will more speedily commence
-their operations in it. When the glass is nearly filled, which in a
-good season will be in a very short space of time, the bees will again
-require increased accommodation; this will also be indicated by the
-thermometer further rising to 85; the end box, as thereon marked,
-must now be given them. Previously to drawing up a slide to enlarge
-their crowded house, the manager should take off the empty end box
-he intends to open to them, carefully and thoroughly cleanse it, and
-then smear or dress the inside of it with a little liquid honey. Thus
-prepared, he must return the box to its proper situation, and then
-withdraw the sliding tin that hitherto has cut it off from the middle
-box; by so doing the store-room is again enlarged. The bees will
-commence operations in this new apartment. This simple operation, done
-at the proper time, generally prevents swarming; by it, the queen
-gains a vast addition to her dominions, and, consequently, increasing
-space for the multiplying population of her domicile. Provided the
-weather continue fine, and the thermometer has risen to 95 degrees, as
-marked on the scale, the remaining tin may be also withdrawn, thereby
-giving the bees, admittance to another box; there is now no lack of
-store-rooms nor of employment for our indefatigable labourers. The
-cylinder thermometer is required to be occasionally dropped into the
-ventilating tube of the side boxes to ascertain their temperature; for
-if exceeding or approaching that of the middle box, it must be reduced
-by ventilating; this is done by raising the zinc tops, to allow the air
-to pass through the perforations. The grand object of this system is
-to keep the end boxes and the bell glass cooler than the pavilion or
-middle box, so as to induce the queen to propagate her species there
-and there only, and not in the depriving part of the hive; by this
-means the side and upper combs are in no way discoloured by brood. The
-queen requires a considerable degree of warmth; the middle box does not
-require more ventilation than the additional openings afford. The bees
-enjoy coolness in the side boxes, and thereby the whiteness and purity
-of the luscious store are increased.
-
-After having given directions for the working of the hive, it remains
-to be told how to obtain possession of the store, and to get rid of
-our industrious tenants from the super and end boxes, of which the
-super glass will be almost sure to be filled first, having been first
-given to them. The operation of taking honey is best performed in the
-middle of a fine sunny day. 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 cement, properly called propolis; then take a piece of
-fine wire, or a piece of string will do, and, having hold of the two
-ends, draw it under the glass very slowly, so as to allow the bees
-to get out of the way. Having brought the string through, the glass
-is now separated from the hive; but it is well to leave the glass in
-its place for an hour or so, the commotion of the bees will then have
-subsided; and another advantage we find is, that the bees suck up the
-liquid and seal up the cells broken by the cutting off. You can then
-pass underneath the glass two pieces of tin or zinc; the one may be
-the proper slide to prevent the inmates of the hive coming out at
-the apertures, the other tin keeps all the bees in the glass close
-prisoners. After having been so kept a short time, the apiarian must
-see whether the bees in the glass manifest symptoms of uneasiness,
-because if they do not, it may be concluded that the queen is among
-them. In such a case, replace the glass, and recommence the operation
-on a future day. It is not often that her majesty is in the depriving
-hive or glass; but this circumstance does sometimes happen, and
-the removal at such a time must be avoided. When the bees that are
-prisoners run about in great confusion and restlessness, the operator
-may then conclude that the queen is absent, and that all is right.
-The glass may be taken away a little distance off, and placed in a
-flower-pot or other receptacle where it will be safe when inverted and
-the tin taken away, then the bees will be glad to make their escape
-back to their hive. A little tapping at the sides of the glass will
-render their tarriance uncomfortable, and the glass may then be taken
-into a darkened room or out-house with only a small aperture admitting
-light which must be open; the bees, like all insects, make towards
-the light and so escape. The bee-master should brush them off with a
-feather from the comb as they can be reached; but on no account, if
-there are many bees, should the glass be left, because the bees that
-are in the glass will gorge themselves to their full and speedily bring
-a host of others from the adjacent hives, who, in a very little time,
-would leave only the empty combs. It is truly marvellous how soon they
-will carry all the store back again, if allowed to do so. An empty
-glass should be put on to the hive in place of the full one, as it will
-attract the bees up, thereby preventing the too close crowding of the
-hive; and, if the summer be not too far advanced, they will work more
-honey-comb in it.
-
-The taking away of the end boxes is a somewhat similar process; but
-they should on no account be taken at the same time as the glass, or
-indeed at the same time as any other hive may be--_robbed_ we were
-going to say, for it is robbery to the bees,--they intended the honey
-for their winter food, and are much enraged at being deprived of it.
-First shut down the dividing tin; the bees in the end box are now
-prisoners separated from the hive, keep them so half an hour, then take
-away the box bodily to another part of the garden, or into the dark
-out-house as before recommended.
-
-It may not be out of place here to say something respecting the
-enthusiastic inventor of the Collateral Hive--Thomas Nutt, who was
-an inhabitant of Spalding, in Lincolnshire. Having been disabled
-during a considerable period by rheumatic fever, he devoted all his
-attention to bees, at a time when bee-culture was but little valued;
-and, although it must be admitted that two boxes were used side by side
-long before Mr. Nutt's day, still it is due to him to state that the
-adoption of three boxes was entirely his own idea, and that as far as
-he then knew, the collateral system was his original invention. His
-statements have been severely criticised, and it does appear that the
-weight of honey which he names as having been produced in one season is
-perfectly incredible. 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 there, would doubtless,
-be very large. If Mr. Nutt has given his little favourites too much
-praise, it will be only charitable, now, to account for his statements
-by an excess of zeal and enthusiasm in this his study of bee-culture.
-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-keeping, some
-of whom, whilst they condemned his statements, have themselves written
-really useful and practical works on the subject, which otherwise
-might possibly never have appeared. As the monks of old kept the
-lamp of religion burning, however dimly, until a more enlightened
-age, so Thomas Nutt may have assisted in a somewhat similar manner
-by energetically propounding his views, and thereby causing other
-apiarians to rise up whose names are now as familiar to us as household
-words, and whose works posterity will value. The writer of these pages
-has often accompanied Mr. Nutt on his visits to his patrons in the
-neighbourhood of London, and seen him perform his operations regardless
-of the anger of bees, and free from all fear of their stings. He often
-expatiated on the cruelty of the brimstone match and suffocation,
-denouncing the barbarous custom in the following terms:--"You may as
-well kill the cow for her milk, or the hen for her eggs, as the bee for
-its honey; why continue to light the fatal match, when every cottage in
-England has the means of saving this most useful and valuable insect?"
-
-
-NEIGHBOUR'S IMPROVED SINGLE BOX HIVE. No. 2.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-We have introduced the "Single Box Hive" to suit the convenience of
-those who, though desirous of keeping bees on the improved principle,
-do not wish to incur the expense or devote the space which is necessary
-for Nutt's hive.
-
-It consists of a lower or stock-box A., 11 inches square, 9 inches
-deep, with three large windows, a thermometer D, as in Nutt's, being
-fixed across the front one, protected at the sides by strips of glass
-to prevent the bees obscuring the quicksilver from sight. B is a cover
-the same size as the lower hive, large enough to allow space for a
-bell-glass 9 inches wide, 6 inches deep. E is the ventilator between
-the glass and the stock-hive, intended to prevent the queen travelling
-into the super hive, and also by cooling the hive to endeavour to
-prevent swarming; a sloping pagoda roof with an acorn top completes the
-upper story. A floor-board with a block front, as in Nutt's collateral,
-forms the base, the entrance being sunk as before described, and
-furnished with zinc slides to reduce or close it as may be required.
-To stock a hive of this description, it is necessary to send the
-stock-box to the party with whom you have agreed for the supply of a
-swarm. In the evening of the day the hive is thus tenanted, remove it
-to the position it is designed permanently to occupy; if the swarm has
-to be procured from a distance, and is transported by rail or other
-conveyance, a perforated zinc slide should be substituted for the
-plain slide that covers the top, and a large piece of perforated zinc
-must also be tacked to the bottom after the swarm has settled in; thus
-securely confined, with a free circulation of air throughout, bees that
-have been swarmed the day before may be safely sent any distance that
-will allow of their being released the day after, because bees, though
-they provision themselves for a couple of days, cannot with safety be
-confined in an empty hive much longer.
-
-Having now, we will suppose, procured your swarm, and having placed
-it in a south or south-east aspect, you may with advantage, if the
-weather be wet, give a little liquid food; the feeding in this hive
-is performed at the top of stock-box, where the glass is worked. Our
-round Feeding Pan or the new Feeding-Bottle may here be used. Any fancy
-as to the position may be indulged in, but must be settled on by the
-time the bees are set at liberty, because any alteration afterwards
-is detrimental to the working of the hive. The bees on first issuing
-forth, carefully mark their new abode and the surrounding objects,
-so that if a change be made, they are completely thrown out in their
-observations, which confuses them not a little, and occasions loss.
-Bees always return to the same spot; it is the locality that they know,
-and if the hive is moved a less distance than a mile, thousands return
-to the spot on which the hive has been accustomed to stand.
-
-Allow your bees to collect honey and build their combs for ten days or
-a fortnight. Much now depends on the weather; if fine, by this time
-they will require additional room, which will be indicated by the
-thermometer D rapidly rising; 100 degrees is the swarming point, the
-hive must be kept below this by ventilation.
-
-Access must now be given to the flat bell-glass at the top, which
-is done by withdrawing the top slide. In a few hours, sometimes
-immediately, the work of comb-building begins in the glass--all the
-sooner, if a piece of clean empty comb be placed therein.
-
-It is of service to keep the glass warm by means of a worsted or baize
-bag, it prevents the temperature from falling at night when much
-comb-building is carried on, providing the heat is not allowed to
-escape. Probably, if all goes on well, in three weeks the glass will be
-found to be filled with fine white honey-comb. When you find that the
-comb is well sealed up, it is time to take it off, but if the cells
-are unfilled and unsealed, let the little labourers complete their
-work--a little experience will soon enable the bee-keeper to determine
-this point.
-
-The plan to be adopted for taking glasses of honey-comb is the same as
-described for hive No. 1, page 21.
-
-
-TAYLOR'S AMATEUR SHALLOW BOX OR EIGHT BAR HIVE. No. 3.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Taylor's Amateur Hive, as seen by reference to the engraving, consists
-of three boxes, the lower one A, is the stock box, in which the swarm
-is first placed; B is the first super; and C the centre box; all three
-boxes are of the same diameter, viz., 13½ inches square inside; A,
-the stock box, is 7½ deep; B, 6½ inches; both are fitted with eight
-moveable bars, each bar being 1⅛ wide, with spaces of half an inch
-between, and all are easily removed by unscrewing the crown board, in
-which are two openings closed by zinc slides; the middle box C has no
-bars, and is still shallower than either of the other boxes, being 5
-inches deep. In many localities and seasons, the third box may not be
-required. Each box has two windows--one at the back and another at the
-side, a zinc shutter sliding in a groove, excluding light and retaining
-warmth; the box C differs from the others in another respect; instead
-of bars it has a grating made by seven openings, each ½ an inch wide
-and 9 inches long; these three boxes stand on a stout floor-board, in
-which is cut the entrance way, 4 inches wide and ⅜ of an inch high. The
-floor-board projects so as to support an outer cover of half-inch wood,
-surmounted by a sloping roof. This is an effectual protection from the
-weather, and is necessary when hives are exposed; of course, if placed
-in a bee-house such protection may be dispensed with. The outer case
-is well painted, of a green colour, and when it is used the hive may
-be placed in any part of the garden. The dimensions of this hive, with
-outside cover, are 18 inches square, 2 feet 6 inches high.
-
-Suitable stands are provided, consisting of a stout pedestal with four
-feet. Stakes should be driven into the ground to secure the whole
-against wind. Height from the ground, 4 feet 3 inches.
-
-The bars before alluded to are for the purpose of inducing the bees to
-build parallel combs; for without this, extraction would be impossible.
-It is a great convenience, in many ways, to be able to take out a bar
-of comb, it gives such complete control over the hive.
-
-To ensure comb-building on the bars, pieces of clean worker comb should
-always be carefully preserved; and before a swarm is put in, either
-every bar, or if guide comb is not plentiful, every other bar should
-have a piece fixed to it in the following manner: cut a piece of clean
-empty comb of the required size, say two inches square, not less;
-heat a common flat iron, and slightly warm the bar with it, then melt
-a little bees-wax upon it; draw the comb quick over the heated iron,
-hold it down on the centre of the bar, giving a very slight movement
-backwards and forwards, then leave it to grow cold; and if cleverly
-managed, it will be found to be firmly attached. 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 comb. A new plan has lately
-been introduced by Mr. Woodbury, of Exeter, to facilitate the correct
-construction of parallel combs.
-
-
-TAYLOR'S AMATEUR BAR HIVE. No. 4.
-
-Taylor's Amateur Bar Hive is stocked exactly in the same way as before
-described--viz., by hiving the swarm into the lowest box A, as with an
-ordinary Cottage Hive, and in a fortnight's time the box B is placed
-over it, and the zinc slides withdrawn. After this has been given them,
-and is nearly filled, the super B is raised, and the box C is placed
-between, immediately over the stock box, to induce the bees to continue
-the combs.
-
-This hive consists of three boxes, one above the other, similar to the
-No. 3. The boxes are less in diameter than the foregoing, and have
-seven moveable bars in each. Recent improvements and observations led
-Mr. Taylor to prefer eight bars, and to have the boxes made a little
-more shallow.
-
-The mode of stocking and management of this hive are the same as that
-last described. There is no outside cover or protection from the
-weather, but the wood is additionally thick and is well painted.
-
-We quite concur with Mr. Taylor in recommending a broader and shallower
-hive, and advise intending purchasers to select the eight-bar hive in
-preference.
-
-
-NEIGHBOUR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 5.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Our "Improved Cottage Hive" is neatly made of straw bound with cane,
-and therefore very durable.[3] The lower hive is covered with a wooden
-top having in it three holes, through which the bees convey their honey
-into three middle sized bell glasses with ventilators, which when
-filled hold about 6 lb. each. There is a hoop at the bottom, another
-round the top of the lower hive; to this the wooden crown board is
-fastened. These hoops are a great improvement, and are less liable to
-harbour insects than if straw alone were used. The floor-board, as
-its name implies, is a wooden board, 1¼ inch thick, with a projection
-of 3 or 4 inches under the entrance to form an alighting place. This
-entrance is cut out of, or sunk in the board.
-
-[Footnote 3: This is the hive referred to by the Bee-Master of the
-Times, when he says:--"The second kind of hive I alluded to is made of
-straw, and may be purchased at Neighbour's, in Holborn. * * * * It is
-so well made that it will last very long. I have had one in constant
-use during ten years, and it is still as good us when it was bought."]
-
-There are three windows in the lower hive, each closed with a shutter,
-these are very useful and interesting for inspecting the progress made.
-Across the centre window is a thermometer, enclosed at the sides by
-slips of glass. The window shutters being painted green, add very much
-to its appearance. The upper hive, which is merely a cover for the
-glasses, is a conical topped hive, also made of straw bound with cane;
-a hoop is worked into the straw, and made sufficiently large to allow
-the cover to drop over the top hoop of the lower hive, keeping the
-whole close, and preventing wet from drifting in. A zinc ventilator,
-ornamentally painted, forms the apex: this is useful in letting the
-confined hot air pass away in warm weather. The ventilator is opened
-by raising it. The dimensions of the lower or stock hive are 15 inches
-diameter, 9½ inches deep outside, its weight when empty 7½ lbs., the
-cover or top hive is 12 inches deep, and 15 inches in diameter, the
-ornamental zinc top being 4 inches deep. The whole is about 24 inches
-high. The weight of a hive packed, including glasses, &c., is about 18
-lbs.
-
-These hives have a tasteful appearance in the garden, 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 described. In extreme cold
-weather, a little additional protection by having matting folded round
-them will be advisable.
-
-One of the advantages this hive has over the common cottage hive is
-that it affords opportunity for the humane management of bees. The
-owner has also the power of taking a glass of honey-comb of pure
-quality, free from the extraneous matter, known as "bee-bread," instead
-of combs that are darkened by having brood hatched in them. By this
-system, we have combs newly made and used only for depositing the honey
-first put into them, hence the name "virgin honey." These glasses have
-a very pretty appearance, and when nicely filled, are very convenient
-for home use or for making presents. The lower hive is the receptacle
-for the bees; when a swarm is placed in this hive, they immediately
-proceed to fill it with combs, in which to store honey for themselves,
-and for cells to breed in. This hive remains undisturbed.
-
-The best mode of tenanting a hive of this description is by placing
-an early and strong swarm in it, which may be generally procured of
-a neighbouring bee-keeper; if from a distance, considerable care is
-necessary to admit plenty of air; the shaking attendant upon carriage
-irritates the bees so much that, if not well ventilated, there is
-danger of the swarm being stifled, and the finer the swarm, the greater
-the danger. For the purpose of ventilation, remove the slides and
-substitute perforated zinc, wrapping the hive up in a coarse cloth of
-open texture (dispensing with the floor-board during transit when the
-distance is great).
-
-It is necessary only to send the lower or stock hive to the party
-furnishing the swarm, taking the precaution to fix the slides at top
-with tacks, as the hive has to be inverted to receive the bees. They
-are shaken into it in the usual manner, as they cluster around the
-branch of the tree or shrub on which they may have chosen to alight.
-After the hiving is accomplished, the hive should be left near to
-catch any stragglers, for there will always be a few; towards evening,
-close the entrance, and remove them to the exact position they are
-intended permanently to occupy. Success depends on this, and also on
-their careful removal on the day or evening of swarming. The following
-morning the bees labour in the new location, marking well their
-habitation before they take flight, and to which they will not fail to
-return loaded with luscious store.
-
-A fortnight must be allowed for filling the stock hive; then, if the
-weather be fine and warm, they will prepare to swarm again, as will be
-indicated by the thermometer rising rapidly to 100 degrees or upwards;
-one of the zinc slides on the wooden top must now be withdrawn, and a
-bell glass put on covered and protected by the upper hive, the other
-glasses may then be given in the same manner; a day or two after which,
-should the weather continue favourable, all signs of swarming will at
-once disappear, the bees now having increased store room which they
-will readily fill with comb. It is often found useful to attach a piece
-of clean empty honey comb to the ventilating tube of the glass; it is
-an attraction, and induces the bees to commence working in it sooner
-than they otherwise would do. The ventilator should also remain open
-during the day to allow the hot air to pass away from the interior,
-thereby contributing to the whiteness and beauty of the work; the bees
-enjoy the refreshment of coolness thereby afforded, and they work the
-faster for it. At evening all ventilation should be stopped, and the
-glasses wrapped round with flannel or some warm material, for the
-reasons mentioned on last page.
-
-The directions for taking honey are also the same as before mentioned.
-
-The holes on the wooden top of this hive are of a peaked shape, being
-a preventive against slaughtering any bees whilst pushing the slide
-in for the purpose of removing the glass when full; the tacks before
-alluded to should be removed from the slides when the hive is fixed in
-its place, they are now in the way of cutting off the glass. The hive
-entrance has two slides: the perforated one is but seldom required,
-the bees object to being closely confined, it is only necessary when
-removing, and then for as little time as possible; the other slide
-is very serviceable during the winter months to lessen the passage
-way, thereby preventing the admission of too much cold air; it is
-also occasionally useful on a summer evening, to lessen the entrance
-when moths are troublesome, for if there be only a small opening, the
-bees can guard it, and easily repulse intruders. During the time of
-gathering they require the whole width to remain open.
-
-When the weather is so unfavourable as to prevent the bees leaving home
-for a few days after being hived, it will be necessary to feed them.
-Bees should not be fed in the midst of winter; the proper time is in
-the autumn or in the spring.
-
-The best mode of feeding is at the top of the Stock Hive. This is done
-by using the Round Feeder.
-
-The Bottle Feeder may be used instead of the Round Feeder, and in the
-same place, by those who give the preference to that method.
-
-The simplicity and easy management of this hive have deservedly
-rendered it an especial favourite, combining, as it does, real utility
-with many conveniences to satisfy the curious. Not a few bee-keepers
-desire to unite the two qualifications, and no hive combines these
-advantages in a greater degree than "Neighbour's Improved Cottage Hive."
-
-
-IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 6.
-
-The No. 6 hive is of precisely the same size, construction, and
-management as the last mentioned, with the exception that it has no
-windows or thermometer in the lower or stock hive. The apiarian with
-this hive will have to trust more to his own judgment as regards the
-likelihood of swarming, and must watch the appearance the bees present
-at the entrance. When it is time to put on supers in order to prevent
-swarming, premonition will be given by the unusual numbers crowding
-about the entrance, as well as by the heat of the weather, making it
-evident that more room is required for the increasing population.
-
-Not being able to form an idea of the state of the hive in spring and
-autumn by looking into the stock hive, it will be advisable to adopt
-the means of weighing. A stock at Michaelmas should weigh 20 lbs.
-exclusive of the hive, or be made up to that weight by feeding.
-
-
-THE LADIES' OBSERVATORY OF CRYSTAL BEE-HIVE. No. 7.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This engraving illustrates the construction of the "Ladies Observatory"
-hive. The stock hive cylindrical with a flat top and a hole in the
-centre; the dimensions 12½ inches inside, 8½ inches deep, the outer
-cover being raised, and is made of stout glass, so as not easily to
-break.
-
-A support, composed of seven wooden bars fixed on a pedestal from the
-floorboard, is very useful for the bees to cling to and attach their
-combs, instead of resting wholly against the glass.
-
-The floor-board is of mahogany, the border being French polished. A
-middle sized bell-glass for deprivation is placed over the hole; this
-hole may be closed by a zinc slide. A cover of straw, 18 inches deep,
-15 inches wide, with a zinc ventilating top similar to that affixed to
-the No. 5 hive, completes the arrangements. The weight of the stock
-hive and board is about 16 lbs.
-
-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 insects, as the whole of the interior
-may be exposed to view; it is particularly suitable for a window or
-an indoor apiary, and also will be found a valuable addition to the
-green house. Under these circumstances, the entrance-way should be
-covered with a flat piece of glass, and an aperture cut in the sash
-corresponding with the entrance to the hive; through the glazed passage
-the bees may then find egress and ingress without being able to gain
-access to the apartment; an alighting board four inches wide must be
-fixed outside on a level with the entrance.
-
-We had a hive of this kind in operation in the Great Exhibitions
-of 1851 and 1862, fixed in the manner above described. It answered
-admirably, and excited much interest and curiosity, though placed there
-under many disadvantages.
-
-When a hive of this kind is to be stocked, procure an early and strong
-swarm, which must be temporarily hived in a common straw hive, from
-which dislodge the bees into the glass hive, but for this purpose a
-little preparation will have to be made. Spread a sheet on the ground,
-place the mahogany floorboard on it with the support, put three bricks,
-or some solid blocks of about the same substance, upon which the glass
-will rest; then with a sharp and sudden blow precipitate the swarm out
-of the straw hive on to the floorboard and support, place the glass
-hive on the bricks, and the bees will collect under the bars and on
-to the pedestal. In about one hour's time the whole will have settled
-quietly, and all the stragglers on the board will have collected
-together, the swarm hanging pear-shaped from the bar support; the
-bricks can now be removed, and the glass put in its right place on the
-floorboard. The straw cover being put on the hive, it can be removed to
-the place it is destined permanently to occupy.
-
-The light should not be admitted for some days after hiving; if
-undisturbed, the bees will speedily build comb, working from the wooden
-bars which are placed there for their assistance and support. In ten
-days or a fortnight, if the weather continues fine and warm, they will
-prepare to swarm again; the opening at the top must now be unstopped,
-and the bell-glass put on, guide comb having been previously fixed.
-The directions given for the No. 5, Cottage Hive equally apply to the
-Ladies' Observatory Hive.
-
-It is advisable in winter to furnish the glass stock hive with more
-protection from cold than is afforded by the straw cover alone; some
-thick baize or wrapper of wadding, for which there is space between
-the glass hive and the cover, will prevent so much moisture condensing
-on the sides of the glass. Moisture is injurious, causing the combs
-to grow mouldy; a little protection in the way of wrapping very much
-prevents this.
-
-The hole at top is used for supplying food should the apiarian fear the
-stock of honey is in danger of running short; either the bottle feeder,
-or the round feeder, may be used for the purpose.
-
-
-COTTAGER'S HIVE, No. 8.
-
-FOR TAKING HONEY IN STRAW CAPS WITHOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF THE BEES.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-A very prevalent opinion exists that bees do better in straw than in
-hives made of any other material. Another opinion prevails, viz., that
-the old fashioned straw hive is the least expensive, the most simple,
-and the most productive. Although we cannot go so far as this, 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--_Cottagers_. By these the more
-fanciful hives will be instantly condemned; besides, the expense puts
-them quite beyond the reach of the poorer class. The object aimed at
-in planning our Cottager's Hive has been to furnish a depriving hive
-that should be at once easy of management, inexpensive, and convenient.
-The stock hive, into which the bees are first hived, is a round straw
-hive, having a flat top with a hole in the centre. The size of this
-lower hive is 7 or 8 inches deep, 14 inches across the bottom, finished
-with a wooden hoop, which adds very much to the firmness and durability
-of the hive. The floorboard is 1¼ inch thick, with a way sunk therein
-for the entrance. A small round mat of straw closes the hole on the
-top; this mat may be fixed by wooden pegs. We have now described what
-is termed the _stock hive_, which is, in fact, an old fashioned straw
-hive adapted, modernised, and improved to the more humane, viz., the
-depriving system. The weight of the stock hive with its floorboard is
-about 7 lbs.
-
-The super or cap hive is about 7 inches deep, 8 inches in diameter, and
-when filled contains about 10 lbs. of honey and comb. A glass window
-which is placed at the side is useful for inspecting the progress made
-in filling it.
-
-A common straw hive, sufficiently deep to cover, drops over the super,
-keeping the window dark and fitting close on to the stock hive.
-This cover hive may be made fast by driving in two skewers, one on
-either side, to keep the whole firm. Unless placed in a bee-house or
-under a shed, the outside should be painted; or a piece of oil-cloth
-or waterproof covering of any kind shaped so as to shoot off the
-rain, will save the trouble of paint, and answer the purpose. If no
-protection of this sort is used, the rain is likely to rot the straw.
-As a covering cottagers often use straight stiff thatching straw
-sewed together; this contrivance is termed a hackle, and has a pretty
-appearance, particularly if a number of hives are in a row. Care has to
-be exercised that mice do not make the covering hive a resting place.
-Mortar is often used for fastening round the hive at the bottom; this
-is a bad plan, as it forms a harbour for insects; the wooden hoop fits
-so close as to leave little necessity for anything of the kind.
-
-The principle of the depriving system is so much the same with all our
-hives, that a good deal of repetition is necessary in describing in
-detail the management of each separate variety. The object aimed at
-with the Cottager's Hive, as indeed with all our hives, is to provide
-a compartment for the bees to live in with their queen, she being the
-mother of all. It is intended, by inducing the queen to remain in her
-original apartment, that all breeding should be there performed, as
-well as the storing of bee-bread and honey for the winter sustenance
-of the bees. The cap hive or upper chamber, known as the "super," is
-for the storing of honey which the bee-keeper looks upon as a surplus,
-and which, at the close of the honey gathering, or as soon as filled,
-he intends to deprive the bees of, and appropriate to his own use,--of
-course taking care to leave sufficient in the lower or stock hive for
-winter sustenance.
-
-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 hive,
-can make no mistake or find any difficulty in performing it. Lest these
-pages should fall into the hands of persons who are not so acquainted,
-we will refer them to the directions already given.
-
-The hive may be smeared inside with a little honey if at hand; but this
-is unimportant, as a clean hive answers well. Some older bee-keepers
-prefer to give a little dressing to encourage the bees to like their
-new home.
-
-After the swarm has been in the hive two weeks, the straw super hive
-may be put on, first removing the straw mat to give the bees access
-to it. If the hive be a stock, that is a swarm of the last or previous
-years, the super may be put on as soon as the weather is fine and warm
-in May. But much depends on the weather and the strength of the hive
-as regards the time occupied by the bees in filling the super; in
-favourable weather a fortnight suffices.
-
-If, on looking in at the little window, the bee-master sees that the
-cells are scaled over, the cap of honey may be removed in the mode
-already described. The cells near the window are the last to be filled,
-so when they are sealed, it is safe to conclude that the combs in the
-unseen parts are also finished.
-
-Sometimes the queen ascends and deposits her eggs; if, on turning up
-the super, brood be visible, replace the cap for a few days, until the
-young bees quit their cells. When thus emptied, honey will be deposited
-in lieu of the brood.
-
-Suitable pedestals for these hives to stand upon may be obtained. It is
-important that these be firmly fixed, and the hive also made fast to
-the stand, to prevent its being blown over by high winds.
-
-
-BAR AND FRAME HIVES.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Mr. Woodbury's Bar and Frame Hive, as originally made, consists of a
-wooden box 14½ inches square inside, 9 inches deep. This is a hive of
-large size, but the actual habitable space inside is lessened by the
-room occupied by the frames, of which there are ten; these rest on a
-rabbet a little below the surface, leaving a space of ⅜ of an inch
-between the upper side of the bars and the crown board. This allows a
-free passage on the top for the bees, entirely obviating the necessity
-of making excavations in the crown board, as has hitherto been
-recommended. Each frame is ⅞ of an inch wide, and rests in notches,
-with a space of ½ an inch between each. The frames extend to within ⅜
-of an inch of the floorboard, so as to hang without touching any part,
-leaving about the same distance from the sides. It will be seen that
-there is a free passage for the bees on every side, and they are thus
-kept from coming in contact with the sides of the hive. Our engraving
-shows the hive open, and exposes to view the top of the ten bars and
-frames as they range from back to front. A window is also shown; this
-is placed in the engraving over the entrance, but the proper position
-would be just opposite. The drawing is made so as to show back and
-front at once. The floorboard is 1¼ inch thick, having two "keys" on
-the underside to prevent warping.
-
-
-STRAW BAR AND FRAME HIVE. No. 45.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Since the introduction of the wood hive by Mr. Woodbury, that gentleman
-has recommended, in the _Journal of Horticulture_, that the stock hive
-be made of straw, of exactly the same dimensions; this material being
-warmer in winter, slightly ventilating, and allowing of absorption.
-Bees during cold weather cluster together to generate the requisite
-degree of heat, the temperature of the interior of the hive being thus
-so much higher than the external atmosphere, a good deal of moisture
-condenses at the top and on the sides of the hive; the straw, as before
-stated, prevents this dampness hanging about the hive, and tends to
-keep the inmates more healthy. Dampness in a hive is a fruitful source
-of mischief, causing empty combs to grow mouldy, and is injurious in
-many ways.
-
-The square straw hives, and a machine for making them, exhibited in the
-Austrian department of the International Exhibition of 1862, suggested
-the idea of employing that material for English bar and frame hives.
-We have had made a machine somewhat similar to the one exhibited and
-suited to the size of our hives, by which our hive maker is able to
-manufacture neat square straw hives. These have a wood frame at top an
-inch deep, with the requisite notches to allow the ten comb frames to
-hang. A similar frame forms the base, the straw being worked between.
-The floorboard is 1¼ inch thick, "keyed" with stout keys as before
-mentioned. An inch projection is left on all sides beyond the exterior
-of the hive, from which it is slightly chamfered down. An entrance 4
-inches wide is cut out of the substance of the board, beginning at the
-edge, and continuing on the same level until inside the hive, where it
-slopes upwards. This entrance is about ⅜ of an inch high where the hive
-crosses it.
-
-These straw hives have been generally made without windows; as Mr.
-Woodbury and other scientific apiarians so prefer them. They consider
-that glass windows are unsuited for winter, because then moisture
-condenses on the glass. There is no doubt that the having a peep
-hole or two in a hive adds very agreeably to its value for amateur
-bee-keepers, and to meet the wishes of such, we have had straw hives
-constructed with windows. 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 colony, nor, perhaps, is it advisable to be often thus meddling.
-The windows have also a very neat appearance. We have hives with one,
-and some with two and three windows; of course, a little extra expense
-is incurred where these are made; but that is not objected to by those
-who approve of the additional convenience. The crown board (if correct
-to call a straw top by that name) has, like the hive, a frame of wood
-all round, and a square piece of wood in the centre, with a two inch
-hole; this hole is for the purpose of administering food in a mode to
-be explained hereafter. A circular block of wood, 4 inches in diameter,
-closes the opening.
-
-
-GLASS BAR AND FRAME HIVES.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Some bee-keepers like to be able to make a full and daily inspection of
-the hive; we have therefore prepared a few hives, constructed of wooden
-frames enclosed on all sides and on the top with window glass. The
-dimensions are precisely the same as those before mentioned, and allow
-of the same number of bars and frames (ten). The crown has a round hole
-cut in the glass to admit of feeding. The four sides are constructed
-of double glass, to preserve the bees from variations of temperature.
-We cannot, however, recommend this hive for a winter residence for
-the bees; we should prefer lifting the combs out with the bees, and
-placing them in a straw hive of similar construction, to pass through
-the ordeal of the winter season. A stock of bees might be kept through
-the year in a hive of this kind, but would require well wrapping round
-to keep out the cold. There should be a small glass over the hole at
-top so as to allow the moisture to arise and condense, instead of
-doing so in the hive. The operation of exchanging the hive is so easy,
-that we should be content to place a stock in one, say, from April to
-September, and shift it in the autumn. Such a hive is a very pleasing
-object of interest, as in it the whole commonwealth of bees is exposed
-to view; and the hive need not be obscured from daylight, provided it
-be protected from sun and rain. All the external wood-work is of oak
-colour varnished, so that the appearance of the "Glass Bar and Frame
-Hive" is extremely neat and much approved of.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Frame.--As before mentioned, each stock hive has ten of these
-frames, each 13 inches long by 7¼ inches high, with a ⅝ inch projection
-at either upper end, which rests in the notch, either back or front.
-The width both of the bar and frame is ⅞ of an inch; this is less by
-¼ of an inch than the bar recommended by the older apiarians. Mr.
-Woodbury,--whose authority on the modern plans for keeping bees is of
-great weight,--finds the ⅞ of an inch bar an improvement, because with
-them the combs are closer together, and require fewer bees to cover
-the brood. Then, too, in the same space that eight old fashioned bars
-occupied the narrower frames admit of an additional bar, so that, by
-using these, increased accommodation is afforded for breeding and the
-storing of honey.
-
-[Illustration: Section of bar.]
-
-Improved Comb Bar.--Mr. Woodbury says that this little
-contrivance has proved very effectual in securing straight combs when
-guide combs are not obtainable. The lower angles are rounded off,
-whilst a central rib is added of about ⅛ of an inch in breadth and
-depth. This central rib extends to within ½ an inch of each end, where
-it is removed in order to admit of the bar fitting into the usual
-notch. All that is necessary to insure the regular formation of combs
-is, to coat the underneath surface of the central rib with melted wax.
-Mr. Woodbury further says, "my practice is to use plain bars whenever
-guide-combs are attainable, as these can be attached with much greater
-facility to a plain than to a ribbed bar; but whenever I put in a bar
-without comb, I always use one of the improved ones. By this method,
-crooked and irregular combs are altogether unknown in my apiary."
-
-Most of our bars are made with the ridge; but should any of our
-customers prefer the flat ones, we keep a few to supply their
-requirements.
-
-With the moveable "bar and frame hive" every comb is available for
-extraction, and may easily be taken out of the hive; each comb being
-fixed within its frame, there is less disturbance to the bees than if
-the combs were fixed to the sides, as is the case with ordinary hives.
-A strip of wood, about ½ an inch wide, rests on the floorboard; in this
-strip are ten notches, made to receive the lower part of the frames, so
-as to retain them in their places at equal distances from each other.
-A difficulty is found with a well stocked hive in dropping the frames
-into the exact notches, so that it is not necessary to have these
-rack works always in use; but when any movement of the hive is made,
-it is essential to have the frames firmly fixed by the aid of this
-contrivance. It is also advisable to have the frames perpendicularly
-supported until the combs are built, so in order that the frames should
-hang true, the hive ought to be on the level. A little inclination may
-be given to it from back to front, causing the hive slightly to fall
-towards the entrance, so as to allow the moisture inside the hive,
-caused by the exhalations of the bees, to run off.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-"Compound Bar Frame."--In the _Journal of Horticulture_,
-Mr. Woodbury thus describes the compound bar frame. Being his own
-adaptation, we cannot do better than use his own words. "This is a
-contrivance of my own, which I have found very advantageous in enabling
-me to use frames in stock hives and bars in supers, without forfeiting
-the advantages arising from the unlimited interchangeability of every
-comb in every hive and super in the apiary. Its construction will be
-readily understood by an inspection of the annexed sketch, in which the
-comb bar is shown slightly raised from its frame. The bar itself is
-13¼ inches long by ⅞ of an inch wide and ⅜ of an inch thick. When the
-comb bar is in its place, the whole forms a frame 13 inches long by 7¼
-inches high (inside measure), with ⅝ of an inch projection at each end,
-which rests in its appropriate notch in either the back or front of the
-hive. When filled with comb, the bar becomes so firmly cemented to the
-frame as to admit of its being handled with facility." This contrivance
-is, no doubt, very excellent in the hands of Mr. Woodbury; but in the
-hands of the unpractised severe mishaps may arise. In warm weather the
-propolis and wax, with which the bees cement the bar to the frame,
-becomes soft, consequently in handling the frames, unless dexterity is
-used, the comb is likely to drop out. We, therefore, recommend that
-the bar and frame be made both in one: greater firmness and simplicity
-are thereby gained. Some of these compound bars and frames are kept
-in stock at our establishment, though they cannot be recommended for
-general use; but should any one prefer them, they can be supplied at
-the same price as the common frames.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-In describing the stock hives of wood, straw, and glass, allusion
-has frequently been made to the depriving hives, technically called
-"supers." These are also made of glass in wood frames, 13 inches
-inside, 6 inches deep, with eight bars (without frames). The
-accompanying cut represents the super used with the bar and frame hive.
-
-Honey-combs in supers are better when made thicker than those for
-breeding, consequently the bars are placed a little further apart than
-in the lower or stock hive; they are either the "Woodbury Ribbed,"
-contrived to induce the straight building of combs, or flat bars with
-guide combs affixed.
-
-Cover.--A loose outer case, forming a complete cover for
-the hive, is found very useful. The case is made in two parts for
-convenience, the roof is also separate, having an acorn at top which
-forms a neat finish. These outside cases are made of wood, and drop
-lightly over all; when thus protected and fixed on a pedestal, the
-hive may be placed in the open air in such position as fancy may
-dictate. The aspect should be south or south-east, and if against a
-wall, sufficient space must be allowed for a free passage behind, as it
-is from thence all operations must be conducted by the apiarian. The
-case and roof with the stand being the only parts exposed to weather,
-will be the only portions that require painting; they are sometimes
-stained and varnished, and we are inclined to prefer the latter for
-appearance. Should the apiarian have a complete bee-hive house, the
-cover and stands will not be needed.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-When removing or replacing the covers, care should be taken to do so
-very gently, or the bees will be enraged and rush out, and may inflict
-stings upon those within their reach. The necessity for lifting off
-the cover for the purpose of looking in, either at the window of the
-stock hive or of the super, we have obviated by making a door both in
-the upper and lower parts of the outside case. These doors, or unglazed
-windows, are hinged at the bottom so as to open downwards, rendering
-inspection easy without disturbance to the bees.
-
-A wooden range for supporting a number of hives makes a safe and
-economical stand; it may be formed by driving firmly into the ground
-two rows of posts, each row about 13 inches apart; to these two rails
-about 2 inches square are nailed, and upon these the hives firmly rest.
-Care should be taken not to have the hives nearer together than 18
-inches; the intermediate space will be found very convenient on which
-to rest the cover, or for supporting an empty hive during the proper
-performance of any operation.
-
-Mr. Woodbury has his hives arranged on rails, somewhat after the plan
-before described.
-
-In describing as above the various hives and frames, some hints have
-been given as to the methods of handling them. This, however, will not
-suffice for an induction to the mysteries of practical bee-keeping; and
-we must refer the reader to a subsequent section, wherein the details
-as to manipulation will be fully explained, and the results of the
-experience of several distinguished apiarians will be embodied.
-
-
-TAYLOR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 14.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-No. 14 hive is similar in principle to No. 8. It is also similar in
-size, with the exception of being quite straight at the sides. A zinc
-rim affords protection from the weather. Under the upper straw hive a
-bell glass is worked. A mahogany adapting board, with a 4 inch hole
-in the centre corresponding with that of the hive, supplies an even
-surface for the glass to rest on, and facilitates its removal when
-full. For particulars for stocking and management see directions for
-No. 8 and No. 5 hives.
-
-
-EIGHT-BAR STRAW HIVE. No. 18.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This is an ingenious contrivance of Mr. Taylor's. Hoops are worked in
-the straw, both at top and bottom of the stock hive, and in the upper
-hoop are openings cut to receive eight comb bars; each bar is 1¼ of an
-inch wide, with a space of h an inch between. Since the introduction of
-square straw bar and frame hives, these have not been much in request.
-Considerable inconvenience is found with this hive, because the bars
-being of unequal lengths they cannot be interchanged one with the other.
-
-The description given of No. 3 hive, and mode of stocking and
-furnishing it with guide comb, apply to this hive. The large straw hive
-raised up in the engraving is an outside case; the roof is a large zinc
-cover. If placed in a bee-house, the outside case and zinc roof are not
-required.
-
-
-NEIGHBOUR'S UNICOMB OBSERVATORY HIVE. No. 20.
-
-[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 insects. It is particularly intended
-for a window recess or an indoor apiary; and will also be found an
-interesting addition to the green house. An aperture should be cut in
-the sash corresponding with the entrance to the hive, through which the
-bees may find egress and ingress, without being able to gain access to
-the apartment, as on the plan in the case of the Ladies' Observatory
-Hive.
-
-The Unicomb Hive is constructed of so narrow a width between this
-plates of glass that it admits of one comb only to be built, and at the
-same time leaves space between the comb and the glass on either side
-for the bees to pass and repass. It is thus made so that every bee may
-be exposed to view. The queen forming the most prominent feature of
-attention, she is readily distinguished by the greater length of her
-body, as well as by the attention paid to her by the other bees.
-
-The mode of stocking this hive is as follows:--procure a strong swarm
-if practicable, and let it be first hived into a common straw hive in
-the usual way. Take care to make the necessary preparations previous
-to the operation of stocking; for this purpose first unscrew the top
-and take out the bar intended for the foundation of the comb. A sort
-of wooden trough, contrived to act as a funnel, is provided with this
-hive. It is in separate pieces, so as to be packed conveniently, and
-requires screwing together. The funnel must now be attached to the
-hive, and care be taken that it is quite firmly fixed--the metal plates
-are attached for this purpose. Having made these preparations at dusk,
-dash the bees out on to a cloth or sheet spread on the ground, place
-four pieces of wood so as to raise the hive a little from the cloth;
-then invert the hive so as to have the funnel downwards, placing it
-over the bees, and letting it rest on the four pieces of wood just
-named. In a short time (say half an hour or an hour) the bees will
-ascend into the hive; they will go up more quickly if occasionally
-stirred with the feather of a goose quill.
-
-When the bees have ascended into the hive, take off the funnel, replace
-the bar, screw on the top board, take it to the place intended for it
-permanently to occupy, and which has been prepared for it. It will be
-as well to screen the hive from view for a few days until the bees
-become settled in their new domicile. Although this hive is constructed
-of double glass to keep up a more uniform degree of warmth, still from
-the cold nature of glass and the close contact into which the bees
-are brought with it, it is advisable to place flannel between the
-outer shutters and the glass of the hive on both sides; this is found
-essential in winter, and very much adds to the comfort of the bees if
-placed so every cold night during most of the year. In the day time
-in summer months with the hive being of double glass the whole may be
-fully exposed to view. If the temperature of the apartment in which the
-hive stands be kept at 60 degrees, this extra attention will not be
-so needful. Bees cease to appear disturbed when the exposure to light
-is continuous. As soon as the bees are settled, comb building will
-immediately commence, and in about two weeks' time there will be one
-comb spreading over the whole hive. The queen may be viewed depositing
-her eggs, and all the usual operations of the rearing of brood,
-storing of honey, and the building of combs, will be open to full
-inspection, with perfect ease to the spectator. As an object of lively
-and permanent interest for the breakfast parlour or conservatory, the
-"Unicomb Observatory Hive" may be regarded as infinitely superior to an
-Aquarium or Fernery.
-
-At the Exposition Universelle of 1855 in Paris, we exhibited a hive
-of this description in full working order. The bees left London on
-the 5th of July of that year, and were placed in the Exposition on
-the following morning. An entrance was made for them through the
-side of the building, as before explained. Our bees had no national
-antipathies, and they immediately sallied forth to their "fresh fields
-and pastures new" in the Champs Elysées, the gardens of the Tuileries,
-the Luxembourg, &c., whence they soon returned laden with luscious
-store from French flowers.
-
-The Jurors of the Exposition awarded us a Prize Medal for bee-hives.
-
-
-WOODBURY UNICOMB HIVE.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-The "Woodbury Unicomb Hive" has many advantages over hives of this kind
-as previously constructed. The engraving shows the interior compartment
-divided into six; these are six Woodbury frames. The inner sash opens
-to admit of hanging up the frames on the notches prepared for them. 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 repass, the same as in Neighbour's Unicomb. There
-is, however, a great advantage in the use of this hive; with it, any
-one possessing a Woodbury box or straw bar and frame hive can readily
-commence a Unicomb, and as readily put the combs and bees back into the
-square hive again. The outside shutters on either side are composed of
-Venetian blinds admitting daylight, but obscuring the rays of the sun.
-We had the entrance made at one end, as represented in our drawing;
-this alteration was made after the pattern of the hive from which Mr.
-Woodbury allowed us to copy. His own was intended to stand wholly out
-of doors, and had two central entrances, one on either side at the
-bottom, the hive itself turning on a pivot.
-
-When the hive was being examined on one side, the entrance was closed
-by a piece of wood inserted in it, and when the other side was brought
-round to be inspected, the piece of wood withdrawn and placed in the
-opposite entrance. This was a most ingenious contrivance; but it did
-not answer our purpose for indoors. When Mr. Woodbury sent us his
-hive, we were preparing for the International Exhibition of 1862, and
-in placing it against the sides of the building, we followed our old
-plan for ingress by having the entrance at the end. Since that time
-we have made a considerable improvement by adapting Mr. Woodbury's
-cleverly contrived turn-table to suit our own hive. Like Mr. Woodbury's
-hive, ours has two iron wheels, the one fixed to the bottom of the
-hive, the other fixed to a stout board running the full length of the
-hive; on these two wheels the whole hive turns. In the centre there is
-an opening into the hive, with a passage-way running underneath, so
-that the bees' entrance is in no way affected by the position of the
-hive, which revolves to suit the convenience of visitors inspecting it.
-Should the queen with her attendants not be visible on one side, the
-other side of the comb can be brought into full view, and examined with
-the same facility as a picture, or as articles are inspected in a shop
-window. Thus, in the Unicomb Observatory Hive, the sovereign mother,
-her train of servitors, the drones with their aimless movements, and
-the crowd of ever busy workers--either building their combs or storing
-honey--may be always seen as presenting a veritable "Tableau vivant."
-
-Another improvement that we have made upon Mr. Woodbury's pattern is
-that of accommodating the frames; his was constructed before frame
-hives were in use, consequently it is only suitable for combs on bars.
-Our adaptation has necessitated an increase in size. The dimensions are
-nearly 3 feet square and 7 inches deep from back to front. Provision is
-made at top for feeding and for working two small flat top glasses for
-deprivation, which are protected by the weather board.
-
-An alighting board is placed at the centre, close under the entrance,
-when the hive is located out of doors. When the hive is placed indoors,
-a passage-way about 18 inches long, covered with glass, is fixed to the
-entrance, the other end communicating with an opening in the wall or
-sash; through this the bees find access, an alighting board being fixed
-outside the building. It is requisite that the passage-way be about
-this length, in order to allow of the hive turning round clear of the
-side of the building.
-
-In the summer of 1863 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 Exeter. We selected six combs, and
-packed them in one of the square box "Woodbury bar and frame" hives,
-and on arrival at Exeter, Mr. Woodbury assisted us in taking out the
-frames and placing them in the Unicomb. That being fixed against the
-boarded side of a shed, we found the covered way a great convenience,
-and it answered remarkably well; the bees did not seem to be
-inconvenienced by having to travel through so long a passage. A glass
-covering admitted a full view of the little labourers as they crowded
-in, and the sight of them very much enhanced the interest of visitors
-examining the hive.[4]
-
-[Footnote 4: It may require explanation how it was that we took bees
-to Exeter, which sounds something like "carrying coals to Newcastle."
-The reason was this--the garden of our friend, Mr. Woodbury, at Mount
-Radford, from which we could have been supplied, was so near to the
-show yard that he was apprehensive a large number of the bees would
-return to their old hives. Our bees from a distance would, according to
-their nature, return to their own hive, for bees although they may be
-moved miles away, take care to mark their new position, and are careful
-to return to it. Mr. Woodbury lent us a small stock of his Ligurian
-bees, and between it and our own hive the crowd of visitors divided
-their attention.]
-
-Since the time before mentioned, we have exhibited bees at the meetings
-of the Bath and West of England Agricultural Society at Bristol, and of
-the Royal Agricultural Society at Newcastle in 1864. On both occasions
-further proof was given that this hive admirably answers the purpose
-intended, and it afforded pleasure and interest to many thousands of
-visitors.
-
-Mode of Stocking.--The Unicomb hive may be stocked in two
-ways, which have been previously referred to. The bee-keeper may either
-select the comb upon which the queen is found and put it into the hive,
-and so form an artificial swarm; or he may take six brood-combs from a
-hive, and so stock the "Unicomb" at once, which we did for the show at
-Exeter.
-
-The former plan is, perhaps, the most advisable, because new comb
-has to be built within the five frames; for, be it remembered, in
-this case five empty frames must be put in. 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 therein.
-The combs are sure to be dark in colour when taken from a stock hive;
-and new combs being whiter have a better appearance in the hive. 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 frames;
-when the queen is on one of the new combs, opportunity may easily be
-taken for opening the hive and removing the old dark comb. The bees can
-easily be shaken or brushed off the comb, and will return to the hive.
-The comb with the unhatched brood may be deposited in any square hive
-that needs strengthening. We mention this to show how to obtain a hive
-with entirely fine white comb.
-
-If the possessor of a square Woodbury frame-hive wishes to start a
-strong Unicomb hive, and does not object to appropriate the stock, he
-must take out of the Woodbury hive any six combs on the frames, and put
-the Unicomb in its place so as to receive all the returning bees that
-happen to be abroad; the remaining four combs, supposing there are ten,
-may be inserted in any other frame hives in the garden in which are
-vacancies for them.
-
-We have had this hive in operation, in the manner last described,
-during the summer of 1863, and found it to answer remarkably well. On
-a lawn, placed on a suitable ornamental stand, it formed a pleasing
-object, besides affording great interest and instruction.
-
-In Unicomb hives stocked with a natural swarm (as is generally the
-plan), there is considerable difficulty in keeping the bees alive
-through the winter. In a hive where the combs are removeable, no loss
-of bees need be occasioned. We do not recommend the hive we are now
-describing as a winter residence for bees. For four months in the
-year, when bees are most active and when their operations are most
-interesting, this hive may be brought into use, either of the two plans
-before described being adopted. An artificial swarm should be put in
-during May or June, and taken out, in the method before mentioned, and
-then placed in the square box during the month of September; sometimes
-it may do for a stock to be put in a month or so earlier, but should
-never be retained later in this hive. In October we often have cold
-nights; the bees and brood being in such close contact with the glass,
-and not able to cluster as is their natural wont, suffer from exposure
-to the variations of temperature. In some degree to moderate this. Me
-have used treble glass with a space between each square; greater warmth
-is thus attained, and the view is not intercepted. Opportunity should
-be taken for cleaning the Unicomb hive when empty, so as to be ready
-for re-stocking as a new hive in the following summer. The "Unicomb
-Observatory" hive is one which might have been suggested by the lines
-of Evans:--
-
- By this blest art our ravished eyes behold
- The singing masons build their roofs of gold.
- And mingling multitudes perplex the view,
- Yet all in order apt their tasks pursue;
- Still happier they whose favoured ken hath seen
- Pace slow and silent round, the state's fair queen.
-
-
-HUBER'S HIVE. No. 19.
-
-To Francis Huber--not improperly styled the "Prince of
-Apiarians,"--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 Aristotle.
-
-During the early period of Huber's investigations, he prosecuted them
-by means of single comb hives which allow of each side of the comb
-being examined. He found, however, that these had one important defect.
-The bees could not in these hives cluster together, which is their
-natural method of withstanding the effects of a reduced temperature.
-Huber hit upon the ingenious expedient of combining a number of single
-comb frames so as to form one complete hive, which could be opened in
-order to expose any particular comb, without disturbing the rest. From
-the manner of the opening and closing of this hive, it has generally
-been called the "Leaf or Book Hive." The division separating each
-comb is joined both back and front with "butt hinges," fastened with
-a moveable pin, on withdrawing which, at either side, each comb and
-the bees on it may be inspected as easily as if in a single comb
-hive. 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
-together. The floorboard on which the hive stands is larger than the
-hive when closed, so as to allow of its being opened freely at any
-particular "volume." An entrance way for the bees is hollowed out of
-the floorboard as in other hives. There is a glass window in each end
-of the hive, which is provided with a shutter.
-
-There is, however, one serious objection to Huber's hive, which,
-though not noticed by him or his careful assistant, has prevented its
-general use. That is, the difficulty there is in closing it without
-crushing some of the bees, a catastrophe which, by exasperating their
-comrades, is certain to interfere with any experiments. There is no
-such risk in the Bar and Frame Hive, whilst in it every facility
-possessed by Huber's is retained; so that we strongly recommend
-scientific apiarians, in preference to Huber's, that they should use
-some kind of Bar and Frame Hive. We have here introduced a description
-of Huber's Leaf Hive (and should be glad to exhibit one) for the sake
-of its historic interest in connection with apiarian science. The
-invention was invaluable for Huber himself, and it suggested to other
-apiarians the adoption of the present plan of vertical bars and frames.
-
-The character of Huber, and the circumstances under which he pursued
-his observations, are so remarkable, that we need scarcely apologize
-for stating a few particulars respecting him here. He was born at
-Geneva in July, 1750, his family being in honourable station and noted
-for talent. Just as he attained to manhood he lost his sight, and
-remained blind to the end of his days. This apparently insuperable
-obstacle in the way of scientific observation, was overcome by the
-remarkable fidelity with which Burnens, his assistant, watched the
-bees, and reported their movements to Huber, Madame Huber also who,
-although betrothed to him before his calamity, had remained constant
-in her affection, assisted in the investigations with great assiduity
-during their long and happy wedded life. We quote the following from
-"Memoirs of Huber," by Professor de Candolle:--
-
-"We have seen the blind shine as poets, and distinguish themselves as
-philosophers, musicians, and calculators; but it was reserved for Huber
-to give a lustre to his class in the sciences of observation, and on
-objects so minute that the most clear-sighted observer can scarcely
-perceive them. The reading of the works of Reaumur and Bonnet, and
-the conversation of the latter, directed his curiosity to the history
-of bees. His habitual residence in the country inspired him with the
-desire, first of verifying some facts, then of filling some blanks
-in their history; but this kind of observation required not only
-the use of such an instrument as the optician must furnish, but an
-intelligent assistant, who alone could adjust it to its use. He had
-then a servant named Francis Burnens, remarkable for his sagacity
-and for the devotion he bore for his master. Huber practiced him in
-the art of observation, directed him to his researches by questions
-adroitly combined, and aided by the recollections of his youth, and by
-the testimonies of his wife and friends, he rectified the assertions of
-his assistant, and became enabled to form in his own mind a true and
-perfect image of the manifest facts. 'I am much more certain,' said he,
-smiling, to a scientific friend, 'of what I state than you are, for you
-publish what your own eyes only have seen, while I take the mean among
-many witnesses.' This is, doubtless, very plausible reasoning, but very
-few persons will by it be rendered distrustful of their own eyesight."
-
-The results of Huber's observations were published in 1792, in the form
-of letters to Ch. Bonnet, under the title of "Nouvelles Observation
-sur les Abeilles." This work made a strong impression upon many
-naturalists, not only because of the novelty of the facts stated, and
-the excellent inductive reasoning employed, but also on account of the
-rigorous accuracy of the observations recorded, when it was considered
-with what an extraordinary difficulty the author had to struggle.
-
-Huber retained the clear faculties of his observant mind until his
-death, which took place on the 22nd of December, 1831. Most of the
-facts relating to the impregnation of the queen, the formation of
-cells, and the whole economy of the bee-community as discovered
-and described by Huber, have received full confirmation from the
-investigations of succeeding naturalists.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-
-
-III. EXTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS AND APPARATUS.
-
-
-BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN TWO HIVES. No. 39.
-
-[Illustration: Front View of Bee-House.]
-
-There is no contrivance for protecting hives from the weather so
-complete as a bee-house one, which also admits of an easy inspection of
-the hives ranged therein. This arrangement is especially convenient for
-lady bee-keepers.
-
-The folding doors behind the bee-house have only to be opened, and the
-hives are at once exposed to full view. If the cover of the bee-hive
-be lifted as well as the shutters opened, the hives and the glasses
-may be deliberately inspected, without any danger of molestation from
-the bees. Thus the progress made by the busy multitude in building and
-filling their combs may be watched by the bee-keeper, from day to day
-with great and increasing interest.
-
-[Illustration: Back View of the Interior.]
-
-Here our engraving shows the back view of the bee-house, the interior
-being furnished with two of our 'No. 5 cottage hives. Two suspended
-weights will be noticed; these are to balance the top hives which cover
-the glasses; the cord for each, runs on pulleys, so that the covers can
-be easily raised and as easily shut down again when the inspection is
-finished. We may here remark, that it is not well to keep the glasses
-long exposed to full light and view.
-
-The front of the bee-house being closely boarded, a passage way is
-contrived for the bees by which they have egress and ingress, without
-being able to gain access to the house. The hives must be kept close
-to the front boarding of the house, so as to prevent the opening of
-any crevices which the bees might mistake for the entrance to their
-hives, and so find their way into the house. The front view of this
-bee-house shows the ordinary contrivance for entrance; the sliding zinc
-entrances may also be advantageously fixed as shown in the engraving of
-a "Bee-house to contain twelve hives." In many parts of the country,
-hives and honey are sometimes stolen from the garden; the bee-houses we
-furnish have a lock and key to prevent depredations of this kind.
-
-Care must be taken to keep the bee-houses free from spiders and other
-insects. In some districts ants are numerous and troublesome. The plan
-we recommend for excluding them is to put some pitch round the four
-supports of the bee-house; or, better still, strips of loose flannel or
-other woollen material that is absorbent, which have previously been
-soaked in lamp-oil. We use sperm oil, being the slowest drying oil we
-know of. A piece of string will keep the flannel close to the wood,
-and then neither ant or any other insect will pass up; so that by this
-simple means the hives may, so to speak, be insulated and placed beyond
-their reach. As the oil dries up it can easily be renewed. We have
-found this an effectual remedy against these insidious enemies of bees.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN TWELVE HIVES. No. 40.
-
-[Illustration: Back View of the above, showing the Interior.]
-
-Where economy of room is a consideration, we fit up bee-houses with a
-double row of hives, one above the other. Our engravings show the back
-and front of a house of this kind, having an ornamental zinc gutter to
-prevent the wet from dripping on to the alighting board.
-
-When a number of hives are thus together, we colour the alighting
-boards differently, so that bees may have a distinctive mark by which
-each may know its own home, and not wander into its neighbour's house.
-Bees readily enough receive a honey laden labourer into a hive; but if
-the wanderer be poor and empty, he will be promptly repulsed, and may
-have to forfeit his life for his mistake. Queens returning from their
-wedding trip, are liable to mistake their hive if all the entrances are
-so much alike that a noticeable difference is not easily apparent.
-A queen entering a hive already supplied with a fruitful sovereign
-would be certain to be killed. The loss to the hive to which the queen
-belonged is a most serious one. Hives are often made queenless from
-this cause, and thereby reduced to utter ruin; the bee-master perhaps
-attributing his loss to something altogether different.
-
-
-BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN NINE HIVES. No. 41.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This engraving represents a bee-house adapted for having a number of
-hives in a limited space. Three rows of hives, one above the other.
-
-We do not recommend a bee-house of this construction; it is difficult
-to erect one to afford space for super hives, without it being so
-inconveniently high as to be liable to be blown over by strong winds.
-
-Hives thus located in a bee-house are not exposed to so much change
-of temperature and the stocks generally pass the winter well. Here we
-may introduce the meditations of a German apiarian, as he describes
-the advantages of a bee-house for the bees, and his own pleasure in
-watching over his pets in the winter, as they dwell so comfortably and
-safely. It is true that Heer Braun associates still choicer delights
-with the simple pleasures of bee-keeping, but as Mr. Woodbury has not
-excluded the higher theme from his translation, we need not hesitate to
-quote the whole:--
-
-EVENING THOUGHTS IN JANUARY.
-
-(_Translated from the German of_ Adalbert Braun.)
-
-By "A Devonshire Bee-keeper."
-
- Within my little garden
- Stands also a bee-house,
- And bees therein protected
- From sly tomtit or mouse.
-
- How quietly they're sitting!
- And little trouble give,
- Beyond the needful watching,
- How undisturb'd they live;
-
- That all, indeed, are living
- In strong unbroken health,
- And, in the brood-nest hanging,
- Consume their hoarded wealth--
-
- That in the dwindling store-room
- Sufficient stores remain,
- Until the rape-plant donneth
- Its blossom dress again.
-
- Thus daily do I visit
- My garden and my bees,
- Neglecting thereby often
- My dinner and my ease.
-
- Thank God! they all were humming
- Within their hives to-day;
- Nor could I find a symptom
- Of hunger or decay.
-
- And yet what ardent longing
- I feel, O Spring, for thee!
- My darlings' gleesome frolics
- Are happiness to me!
-
- How would this anxious longing
- Consume my very breast,
- But for a little being
- So full of love and jest.
-
- In heat or cold who prattles
- Around me ev'ry day,
- And stills the throes of longing
- By commune blithe and gay.
-
- Ye bee-keepers can value
- A joy that is complete;
- It is my wife--the darling--
- Whose lips are honey-sweet.
-
- With e'en the richest bee-stand
- Were joy and pleasure gone,
- If my heart's queen were wanting
- And I left here alone.
-
- Thus her I love and honour.
- No difference have we,
- But oft-times go together,
- Our little pets to see.
-
- Her kisses sweet removing
- All sorrow from my breast,
- And honied joys surrounding
- Proclaim us highly blest.
-
-T. W. Woodbury, _Mount Radford, Exeter_.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-[Illustration: Exterior of an Apiary.
-
-As originally erected in the Zoological Gardens, Regents Park.]
-
-[Illustration: Interior of the above.
-
-May be taken as suggestive for the construction or appropriation of
-rooms for larger Apiaries in summer houses or other outbuildings.]
-
-
-ZINC COVER. No. 37.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This is a simple and inexpensive covering for a No. 5, or other cottage
-straw hive when exposed in the garden. It fits close on to the upper
-hive, coming sufficiently low to protect from the sun and rain, without
-obscuring the whole hive.
-
-These covers are painted green, that colour being generally preferred.
-
-
-ORNAMENTAL ZINC COVER. No. 38.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-The annexed engraving of the Ornamental Zinc Cover renders but little
-description necessary. The illustration shows one of our No. 5 improved
-cottage hives on a stand. Three clumps of wood must be driven into the
-ground, and the three iron rods supporting the covering made fast to
-them with screws. There are screw holes in the feet of the iron rods
-for the purpose; when thus secured, but little fear need be entertained
-of its being blown over by high winds.
-
-In the roof two pulleys are fixed, so that by attaching a cord, the
-upper hive covering the bell glass supers may be raised with facility
-for the purpose of observing the progress made by the bees.
-
-The Ornamental Zinc Cover will form a pleasing object in the flower
-garden when placed in a suitable position on the grass plot. It is
-painted green; the iron rods are of such a length as to support the
-roof at a convenient height from the ground.
-
-
-COVER OF ZINC. No. 29.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This zinc cover introduced by H. Taylor, Esq., for his cottage hive
-(No. 14) will also be found useful as a protection from wet for many
-other descriptions of round straw hives.
-
-
-BELL GLASSES.
-
-[Illustration: 25.]
-
-[Illustration: 26.]
-
-[Illustration: 27.]
-
-25. To contain 10 lbs., 10 inches high, 7 inches wide.
-
-26. To contain 6 lbs., 7 inches high, 5½ inches wide.
-
-27. To contain 3 lbs., 5 inches high, 4 inches wide.
-
-These bell glasses are used in the hives before described. No. 25 is
-for Nutt's Hive (No. 1); No. 26 is for our Improved Cottage Hive (No.
-5); No. 27 is a very small glass, one that is not often used, and which
-we do not recommend. Bees will generally fill a middle sized glass
-quite as soon as one so small as this.
-
-
-BELL GLASSES. No. 24.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-These glasses have been introduced by Mr. Taylor, and are recommended
-as preferable to deep narrow glasses.
-
-The drawings will show that they are straight at the sides, flat at the
-top inside, with a knob outside to take hold by, through which is an ½
-inch opening to admit a ventilating tube.
-
-The larger is 6 inches deep, 12 inches wide; smaller 5 inches deep, 9½
-inches wide.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-The late Mr. J. H. Payne, of Bury, author of the "Bee-keeper's Guide,"
-introduced another glass. It has a 3 inch hole in the centre, the
-purpose of which is to tempt bees to produce additional and larger
-stores of honey. It is to be used as follows:--when a bell glass is
-half or quite filled, raise it, and place the Payne's glass over the
-hole of the stock hive, with the filled glass on it over the 3 inch
-hole. The bees will bring their combs through, and thus Mr. Payne found
-that they would store more honey than if the bell glass were removed
-and another empty one put in its place. Of course the first glass must
-be smaller in diameter than the Payne's glass, so as to rest upon it.
-
-
-BELL GLASS. No. 28.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This is a glass super to be placed on the hive in a similar way to
-the bell glasses already alluded to. It has the advantages of being
-straight at the sides, flat at top, and without a knob; so that when
-filled it may be brought on to the breakfast table, inverted, on a
-plate. The glass lid shown in the engraving forms a cover, and fits
-over outside, so as not to interfere with the combs within. These flat
-top glasses, like those with a knob, have a hole through which a zinc
-ventilating tube is inserted.
-
-
-GUIDE COMB FOR GLASSES.
-
-In some of our previous allusions to the best mode of inducing bees
-to commence working in glasses, we have recommended attaching guide
-comb. We will now more particularly explain how this attraction can be
-best applied. We have already shown how bees may be induced to make
-use of guide combs fixed to bars, and the same principle is applicable
-to glasses. These may be filled with great regularity by adopting the
-following directions, which we believe have never before appeared in
-print:--
-
-Procure a piece of clean new empty worker honey-comb which has not had
-honey in it (because honey will prevent adhesion to the glass); cut
-it up into pieces of about three quarters of an inch square. Gently
-warm the exterior of the glass; this we find is best done by holding
-the glass horizontally for a short time over the flame of a candle;
-then apply one of the pieces of empty comb inside at the part warmed,
-taking care in fixing it that the pitch or inclination of the cells is
-upwards--in fact, place the guide comb in the same relative position
-that it occupied in the hive or glass from which it was taken. There is
-some danger of making the glass too warm, which will cause the comb to
-melt, and the wax to run down the side, leaving an unsightly appearance
-on the glass; this should be carefully avoided, 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 melted. It
-is hardly necessary to state that only the very whitest combs ought to
-be used. A short time should be allowed before changing the position
-of the glass, so that it may cool sufficiently to hold the comb in its
-place. Six or eight pieces may thus be fixed, so that when the glass is
-filled, it will present a star shape, all the combs radiating from the
-centre. The annexed engraving shows the appearance of a glass as worked
-by the bees, in which guide combs were fixed in the manner described
-above. The drawing was taken from a glass of our own filled after being
-thus furnished.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-In the Old Museum at the Royal Gardens, Kew, may be seen a Taylor's
-glass presented by us, some of the combs in which are elongated on
-the outside to the breadth of six inches. We believe that not only
-does a glass present a much handsomer appearance when thus worked--and
-will, on that account, 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 devices.
-
-This mode of fixing guide comb does not solely apply to this shaped
-glass, but is equally useful for all kinds of glasses. It is introduced
-in connection with No. 28, because that glass having a flat top and no
-knob, the regularity is more clearly apparent.
-
-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 instinct. They have no secrets in their economy, and
-they do not shrink from our constant observation as they daily pursue
-their simple policy of continuous thrift and persevering accumulation.
-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-commonwealth:--
-
- "Long from the eye of man and face of day,
- Involved in darkness all their customs lay,
- Until a sage well versed in Nature's lore,
- A genius formed all science to explore;
- Hives well contrived, in crystal frames disposed.
- And there the busy citizens disclosed."--Murphy's _Vaniere_.
-
-
-THE NEW BOTTLE FEEDER. No. 44.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-It has long been acknowledged that the best mode of feeding bees is
-through an opening at the top of the stock hive. The "new bottle
-feeder" is a simple and good means of administering food when a stock
-requires help in that way. Any kind of hive that has an opening at the
-top may thus be fed; bees can take the food from it without leaving the
-hive. Another important feature is the cleanliness with which liberal
-feeding can be accomplished; and few operations require more care than
-does feeding. If liquid sweet is left hanging about the hive, it tempts
-robber bees, and when once the bees of an apiary have had a taste,
-there is no knowing where their depredations will stop; they resolutely
-attack and endeavour to rob other hives, fighting and killing one
-another to a considerable extent. Even if no hives be completely
-destroyed, weakness from loss of numbers will be the portion of most,
-if not all, the hives in the garden.
-
-The morals of our favorites are here a good deal at fault, for the
-strongest hives, when their inordinate passion is thus stirred up
-by the carelessness or want of knowledge of the bee-keeper, attack
-and prey upon the weak. To be "forewarned is to be forearmed"--and
-"prevention is better than cure." We strongly recommend closely
-covering up the feeder; one of the middle size bell glasses put over it
-makes a close fitting cover, should the regular cover to the hive not
-be sufficiently tight: when bees are not kept in a bee-house--and are
-on that account more accessible--this extra care is more particularly
-needed. The right time for feeding is in the autumn or spring. A stock
-of bees at Michaelmas ought to weigh 20 lbs. exclusive of the hive, and
-if then it weigh less, the deficiency should be made up by artificial
-food. It is not wise to defer doing this until later in the season,
-because it is important that when the food is placed in the cells, the
-bees should seal it up, and a tolerably warm temperature is required to
-enable them to secrete the wax for the delicately formed lids of the
-cells. If the food remain unsealed, there is danger of its turning sour
-and thereby causing disease among the bees. It is not well to feed in
-mid-winter or when the weather is very cold. Bees at such times consume
-but little food, being in a state of torpor, from which it is better
-not to arouse them.
-
-A little food in the spring stimulates the queen to lay more
-abundantly, for bees are provident, and do not rear the young
-so rapidly when the supplies are short. In this particular the
-intelligence of bees is very striking; they have needed no Malthus to
-teach them that the means of subsistence must regulate the increase of
-a prosperous population:
-
- "The prescient female rears the tender brood
- In strict proportion to the hoarded food."--Evans.
-
-Judgment has, however, to be exercised by the apiarian in
-giving food, for it is quite possible to do _mischief by over feeding_.
-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 eggs, and by this means the progress of the hive is much
-retarded, a result that should be guarded against.
-
-The following directions will show how the bottle feeder is to be
-used:--Fill the bottle with liquid food, place the net fixed on with an
-India-rubber band over the mouth, place the block over the hole of the
-stock hive, invert the bottle, the neck resting within the hole in the
-block; the bees will put their proboscises through the perforations and
-imbibe the food, thus causing the bottle to act on the principle of a
-fountain. The bottle being glass, it is easy to see when the food is
-consumed. The piece of perforated zinc is for the purpose of preventing
-the bees from clinging to the net, or escaping from the hive when the
-bottle is taken away for the purpose of refilling. A very good syrup
-for bees may be made by boiling 6 lbs. of honey with 2 lbs. of water
-for a few minutes; or loaf sugar, in the proportion of 3 lbs. to 2 lbs.
-of water, answers very well when honey is not to be obtained.
-
-
-ROUND BEE FEEDER. No. 10.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Round bee-feeders are made of zinc and earthenware; 8 inches across, 3
-inches deep. The projection outside is a receptacle for pouring in the
-food; the bees gain access to the feeder through a round hole, which
-is placed either at the centre or nearer one side, whichever may best
-suit the openings on the top of the stock hive. The feeder occupies a
-similar position to that of the glasses or cap hives in the gathering
-season. A circular piece of glass, cut so as to fit into a groove,
-prevents the bees escaping and retains the warmth within the hive,
-whilst it affords opportunity for inspecting the bees whilst feeding.
-
-The feeders were originally only made of zinc; but some bee-keepers
-advised the use of earthenware, and a few have been made to meet the
-wishes of those who give the preference to that material.
-
-When the bees are fed from above in this manner, the feeder is kept at
-a warm temperature by the heat of the hive. In common hives cottagers
-feed the bees by pushing under the hive thin slips of wood scooped
-out, into which the food is poured. This plan of feeding can only be
-had recourse to at night, and the pieces of wood must be removed in
-the morning. By feeding at the top of the stock hive any interruption
-of the bees is avoided. For further instructions on this head see the
-directions given for using the bottle feeder.
-
-
-A ZINC FOUNTAIN BEE FEEDER. No. 15.
-
-[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 No. 10 round
-feeder.
-
-The liquid honey is poured in at the opening, which unscrews; whilst
-being filled, the inside slide closing the opening through which
-the food passes into the feeding pan, should be shut down. When the
-reservoir is filled, the screw is made fast, and the slide being
-withdrawn, a wooden float pierced with small holes, through which the
-bees take the food, forms a false bottom, and rises and falls with the
-liquid. This feeder being on the syphon principle, like a poultry
-or bird water-fountain, is supplied from the reservoir until that is
-empty. A piece of glass is fixed in the side of the reservoir, in order
-that the bee-keeper may see when it is emptied. A flat piece of glass
-on the top prevents the bees from escaping, and through it they may be
-inspected whilst feeding. The bees find access to the feeder on to the
-perforated float through the central round hole, which is placed over a
-corresponding hole in the stock hive.
-
-
-NUTT'S DRAWER FEEDER. No. 9.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This is the feeding drawer, alluded to in the explanation of the
-management of the No. 1 Nutt's Collateral Hive, for feeding at the
-bottom of the middle or stock box. The feeder is made of tin, and of a
-square form, so as to fit the drawer (see page 19).
-
-HONEY CUTTERS. No. 13.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-Honey Cutters are used for removing comb from boxes and glasses without
-damaging it. The flat bladed knife is for disconnecting the combs from
-the sides; the hook shaped one is for the same purpose, to be applied
-to the top or horizontal part of the box or glass.
-
-
-FUMIGATOR. No. 11.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This Fumigator is a tin box, somewhat like a pepper box upon a foot.
-It is a simple adaptation of the fumigating apparatus described by Mr.
-Nutt, and is used in the following manner. Have a straw hive or other
-vessel ready, that will match in circumference the hive intended to be
-fumigated. If the empty hive have a conical top, it will not remain
-crown downwards without a rest; in this case, it will be convenient to
-invert it on a pail. Having ascertained that the hive to be operated
-upon and the empty one in its reversed position nearly match in size,
-take half a packet of the prepared fungus, fire it well, and place it
-in the box or fumigator; placing this in the centre of the empty hive,
-then bring the occupied hive directly over, so as to receive the fumes
-of smoke. To keep all close, put a wet cloth round the place where
-the two hives meet. In a minute or two the bees may be heard dropping
-heavily into the lower empty hive, where they lie stupefied. After a
-little while, the old hive may be tapped upon to make the bees fall
-more quickly. On removing the upper hive, the bees from it will be
-found lying quiet at the bottom of the lower one. Place a sheet on the
-ground, and spread the bees on it, then with a feather sort them over,
-in order to pick out the queen-bee. As soon as the queen is found,
-then pour the rest of the lethargic swarm from off the sheet back into
-the inverted hive again. The stupefied bees must now be sprinkled
-freely with a syrup made of honey and water, or sugar and ale boiled
-together. Some apiarians recommend a few drops of peppermint to be
-mixed with the syrup, in order to drown the peculiar odour which is
-special to each hive of bees,--this is more necessary when two hives
-of bees are fumigated and whilst under the influence of smoke are well
-mixed together. The hive containing the bees with which it is intended
-to unite the stupefied bees, must now be placed on the top of that
-containing the latter, just as the hive was from which they have come.
-A wet cloth must be fastened round the two hives, so as to prevent
-any of the bees from escaping. The hives in this position must be
-placed where they are not likely to be knocked down or meddled with.
-The fresh bees in the upper hive, attracted by the scent of the bees
-besmeared with honey, go down and commence to lick off the sweets from
-the sprinkled sleepy ones. The latter gradually revive, when all get
-mingled together, and ascend in company to the upper hive, where they
-live as if they had not been separate families.
-
-The two hives should be left undisturbed for twenty-four hours, then
-the upper hive may be removed and placed immediately on the spot from
-whence it was brought. The reason the queen is recommended to be taken
-is to prevent any fighting.
-
-The queen should be kept alive and fed as long as she will live, in
-case any harm should befall the sovereign of the other community.
-
-
-THE FUMIGATOR. No. 12.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-The Fumigator is useful for several purposes. When a frame hive has to
-be disturbed it is requisite to raise the lid and blow a little smoke
-into the hive, so as to check the angry passions of the bees. If it be
-desirable to stupefy the bees, ignited fungus must be placed in the
-box, and the flattened end applied to the entrance of the hive; the
-smoke is then blown in--either with bellows or by applying the mouth
-of the operator,--taking care to close all openings through which the
-smoke can escape. The bees fall down stupefied, generally in about ten
-minutes, but the effect varies according to the populousness of the
-hive and the quantity of comb in it. The projected operations must now
-be performed speedily, as activity will soon be regained. See preceding
-directions.
-
-
-
-THE BEE DRESS OR PROTECTOR. No. 31.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-All operations connected with the removal or the hiving of bees
-should be conducted with calmness and circumspection. Bees, although
-the busiest of creatures, have great dislike to fussiness in their
-masters, and become irritable at once if the apiarian lets them see
-that he is in a hurry. Hence, there is great advantage in having the
-face and hands covered whilst at work amongst the bees; for when the
-operator knows he cannot possibly be stung, he can then open his hives,
-take out the combs, gather in his swarms, or take the honey, with all
-the deliberation of a philosopher. Various kinds of bee dresses have
-been contrived; one that we keep ready in stock is of very simple
-construction. It is made of strong _black net_, in shape like an
-inverted bag, large enough to allow of a gentleman's wide-awake or a
-lady's hat being worn underneath. The projection of the hat or cap
-causes the dress to stand off from the face; and the meshes of the net,
-though much too small for a bee to penetrate, are wide enough to allow
-of clear vision for the operator. An elastic band secures the dress
-round the waist; the sleeves also--made of durable black calico--are
-secured at the wrists by a similar method. The hands of the bee-master
-may be effectually protected with a pair of India-rubber gloves, which
-should be put on before the dress is fastened round the wrists. This
-kind of glove is regularly used by photographers, and allows of perfect
-ease in manipulation.
-
-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 security. Still he need not
-be careless as to the feelings of his bees; his success and their
-comfort will be promoted by his "handling them gently, and as if he
-loved them." "Familiarity" between bees and their master "breed" not
-"contempt," but affection.
-
-Any sudden or clumsy movement which jars the combs or frames will
-excite the bees, and if but one should be crushed, the odour of their
-slaughtered comrade rouses them to a pitch of exasperation. Their
-powers of smell are very acute. The best time for most operations is in
-the middle of a fine day.
-
-
-ENGRAVED PRESSING ROLLER. No. 46.
-
-FOR THE GUIDANCE OF BEES IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF HONEY-COMB ON THE BARS.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-This is an engraved metal roller, which when applied to the coated
-underside of a comb-bar leaves an impression like the diagram shown.
-The wax having been spread on the flat bar, the roller, heated by being
-put into hot water, is then heavily pressed over it. The roller has
-two wood handles, so that considerable pressure may be given to it.
-The roller is a little less than 2 inches in diameter, ⅞ of an inch
-wide, and the length from handle to handle is 6 inches. 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 described.
-It is a contrivance invented in Switzerland, and exhibited in the
-International Exhibition of 1862, when the pattern roller was purchased
-by ourselves.
-
-The bars of a hive prepared with these markings in wax afford ready
-made foundations for regular combs, which very much facilitate the
-operations of the bees.
-
-
-IMPRESSED WAX SHEETS FOR ARTIFICIAL COMB.
-
-These artificial partition walls for combs are sheets of genuine
-wax, about the substance of thin cardboard. They receive rhomboidal
-impressions by being pressed between two metal plates, carefully and
-mathematically prepared and cast so that the impressions are exactly
-the same size as the base of the cells of a honey-comb. 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 both; now the substance
-of this is said to be only the one hundred and eightieth part of an
-inch, whilst the artificial ones we are recommending are between the
-thirtieth and fortieth part of an inch, more than four times the
-thickness of the handy-work of the bees themselves. It would, indeed,
-be vain to attempt to furnish sheets of wax at all approaching their
-own delicate fabric; the impressed sheets are quite as thin as they
-can be to bear the handling which is requisite for fixing them in the
-hives. We find, however, that the thickness is no disadvantage; the
-bees speedily excavate and _pare the artificial sheet_ so as to suit
-their _own_ notions of the substance required; then, with admirable
-economy, they use the surplus thus obtained for the construction of
-the cells. After a sheet has been partly worked at by the bees, 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 upon.
-
-When it is considered, as writers tell us, that more than fourteen
-pounds of honey are required for the secretion and elaboration of a
-single pound of comb, it will not be difficult to form a just estimate
-of the value of this invention, which thus furnishes cheap and
-excellent assistance to our industrious favorites. It also shows the
-bee-keeper that all clean empty combs should be carefully preserved,
-and considered as valuable stock. Another great advantage that it
-affords us is, that it renders us independent of _guide comb_, which
-is not always obtainable. When a sheet or a strip of this impressed
-wax is properly fixed to the comb bar, it is _certain_ to be the guide
-and foundation of a straight comb. This invention has been derived
-from Germany, where it has been adopted many years with success. At
-the International Exhibition of 1862, we purchased the metal plates or
-castings, so as to manufacture the impressed sheets with which we are
-now able to supply our customers; and, after the careful trials we have
-made, we have great confidence in recommending them.
-
-In the season of 1863 we furnished a Woodbury glass super with the wax
-sheets fixed to the bars, in the manner hereafter to be explained, and
-it was truly astonishing to see the rapidity with which these sheets of
-wax were worked into comb. Receptacles were quickly made ready for the
-storing of honey, and the new combs soon became beautifully white; for
-although the artificial wax has a yellow tinge, yet after being worked
-at and made thinner, it is as good in colour as ordinary combs. For
-supers we cut the wax plates in half, making one serve for two bars.
-
-We have received from Germany the following directions for the
-fastening of the artificial plates to the comb bars. Hereafter will
-be described a plan which we have adopted, and to which preference is
-given.
-
-(Translation) "The unstamped edge of the plate receives incisions half
-an inch distant from one another made with a sharp knife, the plate
-having been a little warmed. Then it is pinched between two equally
-strong ledges which have been well moistened; the projecting edge of
-the plate which received the incisions is alternately bent to the right
-and to the left. The comb bars are well besmeared with artificial
-sticking wax (a mixture of two parts of wax and one part of American
-resin), and is well warmed at a fire. Afterwards the besmeared side
-is laid upon the bent end of the plate, and pressed to it as firmly
-as possible. A small wooden ledge, besmeared with sticking wax and
-fastened by means of pressure to the lower edge of the plate, prevents
-it from bending, which sometimes happens when the bees work it."
-
-To carry out the directions here given, it is necessary to warm the
-besmeared comb-bar at a fire; the wax plate has also to be warmed.
-Having tried this plan, and found inconvenience attending it,
-especially from the wax curling with the heat and the difficulty of
-making it stick firm,--to say nothing of the uncomfortableness of
-performing the operation before a fire on a hot day in July,--we began
-to consider if a little carpentering might not do the work better and
-more pleasantly, and adopted the following plan:--We split or cut
-the comb bars of the Woodbury super in half lengthways, and taking
-the unstamped edge between the two strips, join them together again
-by small screws at the side, confining the wax plate tightly in the
-centre, with no possibility of its falling down. Where frames are used,
-of course, the bar could not be cut in two (except with the "compound
-bar and frame," where the bar being loose, it might be as easily
-managed). The plan we adopt with an ordinary frame is to saw out an
-opening about an inch, or an inch and a half from either end where the
-sides are morticed in; this opening we make with a keyhole saw. Through
-it the wax plate is easily put, and with a heated iron passed over the
-upper side of the bar, is made sufficiently firm. If the wax plates
-are too large, a portion may easily be cut off; an opening of full 11
-inches long can be made without materially weakening the bar and frame.
-
-The wax plates must not extend to the bottom of the frame; a space of
-at least one inch should be left for expansion, because the bees in
-working the plate stretch it down lower. We also use a few pins firmly
-pressed into the frames, and long enough to reach the edge of the
-plate, for by fixing three or four pins on either side, both at the
-sides and at the bottom, the plate may be held in an exactly central
-position within the frame. As before mentioned, when these directions
-are carried out, there is no fear of being troubled with crooked combs
-on bars.
-
-The secretion of wax, and the method of its adaptation by the bees, is
-thus admirably described by Evans:--
-
- Thus filtered through yon flatterer's folded mail
- Clings the cooled wax, and hardens to a scale.
- Swift at the well-known call, the ready train
- (For not a buzz boon Nature breathes in vain,)
- Spring to each falling flake, and bear along
- Their glossy burdens to the builder throng.
- These, with sharp sickle, or with sharper tooth,
- Pare each excrescence, and each angle smooth,
- Till now, in finish'd pride, two radiant rows
- Of snow-white cells one mutual base disclose;
- Six shining panels gird each polish'd round,
- The door's fine rim, with waxen fillet bound,
- _While walls so thin, with sister walls combined,
- Weak in themselves, a sure dependance find._
- * * * * *
- Others in firm phalanx ply their twinkling feet,
- Stretch out the ductile mass, and form the street,
- With many a cross-way, path, and postern gate,
- That shorten to their range the spreading state.
-
-
-
-
-IV. MANIPULATION AND USES OF BAR AND FRAME HIVES.
-
-
-Having at page 36, given a description of the mechanical arrangements
-of bar and frame hives, the next thing is to describe the mode of
-introducing the bees, and of thus bringing the humane and scientific
-hives into operation. The swarm should be first hived into a common
-straw hive from the bough or shrub upon which they may have alighted;
-place this hive,--into which we will suppose the bees have been
-shaken,--on the ground, propped up on one side with a brick or a flower
-pot, or anything of the sort that may be handy, in order that straggler
-bees may join the swarm. The spot selected for this should be as shady
-an one as can be found, near to the place where the swarm settled; 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 hive; spread a sheet or
-cloth on the ground where an even surface can be obtained; stake this
-sheet down at the four corners, to prevent ruts and inequalities, which
-are great hindrances to the bees going into the bar and frame hive;
-place the latter upon the sheet without its floorboard, having its
-front raised on blocks or sticks rather more than an inch,--not more,
-otherwise the bees will cluster and attach themselves to the lower part
-of the frames instead of going up between. These preparations will
-perhaps occupy ten minutes, by which time the swarm will have become
-settled and tolerably quiet. Then with a sharp rap precipitate the
-bees out of the straw hive on to the sheet immediately in front of the
-frame hive; give the straw hive another knock so as to dislodge all the
-bees, and then take it quite away, otherwise they may, if it be left
-near, perversely choose to go into that instead of the one desired.
-In some cases, as when the swarm has to be brought from a distance,
-and procured from a cottager about whose skill in carrying out these
-directions there may be misgivings, it is best to give instructions
-that the swarm be brought home after sunset, and then the foregoing
-directions for inducing the bees to tenant the frame-hive may be better
-carried out; for ourselves, we much prefer the evening for the purpose.
-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 quickly.
-
-Mr. Langstroth, in his admirable book "The Hive and Honey Bee," writes
-"If they are too dilatory in entering the new hive, they may be gently
-separated with a spoon or leafy twig, where they gather in bunches on
-the sheets or they may be carefully 'spooned up' and shaken out close
-to the front of the hive. As these go in with fanning wings, they will
-raise a peculiar note, which communicates to their companions that they
-have found a home, and in a short time the whole swarm will enter,
-without injury to a single bee." In the _Journal of Horticulture_, Mr.
-Woodbury says "If combs be fixed in the frames, the crown board may be
-removed, and the cluster knocked out of the straw hive on to the top
-of the exposed frames. The bees will disappear between them with the
-utmost alacrity, delighted to have met with a ready furnished dwelling,
-and the top or crown board having been replaced, the hive should at
-once be removed to the position it is intended permanently to occupy."
-
-No one should attempt these operations without being protected by a
-_bee dress_, and a pair of India-rubber gloves,--such as those used
-by photographers,--which are sting proof. Some persons also take the
-precaution of tying strings round the ankles of the trowsers, lest
-some straggler should determine to attack the outposts of the enemy,
-which, to say the least, might perplex the operator in the midst of his
-task. Elastic India-rubber bands are good for this purpose, or a pair
-of "knickerbockers" would be useful. If Wellington boots are worn, the
-trowsers may be tucked within the leather, in which case no bee can
-molest the operator, and no string or band will be needed. Practice
-makes perfect in bee tending as in other matters, and when a light hand
-is gained, there is little danger of the apiarian being stung.
-
-If the weather be wet the next day or so after hiving, it will be well
-to give a little assistance to the new colony in the shape of food,
-for although when a swarm leaves a hive almost every bee composing it
-fills itself with honey, we have known not a few instances in case
-of very wet weather, in which the whole swarm has been starved for
-the want of this little timely help. Of course, the first work of the
-bees is to build themselves combs, and these combs being produced by
-the secretion of wax from honey, a great drain upon their resources
-immediately begins, and any little outlay at this juncture is
-abundantly compensated by its enabling these industrious emigrants the
-more quickly to push, forward the furnishing of their new home. Clean
-combs from hives that may have lost their bees are readily accepted,
-and cause a great saving in time and material to the bees; these combs
-may easily be fixed by cutting them the proper size to fit within the
-frames, and making them firm by tying with tape or fixing them with
-pliable wire. Artificial comb (see page 70) is often used, and has
-this advantage, that the combs are certain to be straight and regular,
-besides the saving in material to the bees.
-
-These preparations must be made prior to the bees being hived, so
-that when a hive is so prepared, a swarm may begin to adapt whatever
-advantages they find ready for them; and it is truly marvellous what a
-swarm will do when thus furnished with combs in their new habitation.
-In these the queen can immediately begin to deposit her eggs, and
-the workers to store their honey, without having to wait for the
-construction of combs, which is a laborious occupation for the bees.
-
-In some cases, fine white combs may be taken from the stock hive; the
-end frames are always the most free from brood. Care must be exercised
-not to rob this part of the hive too much; one comb may perhaps be
-removed in the course of the season without impoverishing the bees, but
-it is not wise to take more.
-
-Putting on Super Hive.--A colony established a year or more
-is called a "stock," by way of distinction from a swarm of the present
-year. Supposing the hive to be a stock, the super should be given them
-at the early part of the season, say, if fine and warm, at the latter
-end of April or beginning of May; if the weather be then unfavourable,
-it is better to delay doing so until a more genial temperature. If the
-colony be a swarm of the present year, two weeks should be allowed to
-elapse from the time of tenanting a hive, before putting on the super;
-this delay is necessary to give the bees the opportunity of building
-combs in their new domicile, and of getting a store of honey for
-themselves before working for their master.
-
-When it is wished to use a super, the crown board or roof of the stock
-hive must be taken away, the thin adapting or honey board taking its
-place; the two long slits at the sides are to give admission to the
-super. The bees will begin sooner and work faster if the eight bars are
-each furnished with artificial comb (as described page 71). We have had
-depriving hives very quickly filled when the bees were thus assisted.
-Combs that have been left unfilled may be fixed to the bars as before
-described; these must be white and clean, as dark comb should not be
-used for super hives. The combs when filled may be taken out singly, if
-desired for consumption, substituting an empty bar or comb; or should
-the bee-keeper desire to see a handsome super, he must wait until the
-bees have filled and sealed up all the combs, and then he may proceed
-to deprive them of it as before described.
-
-Taking out Frames with Combs.--It is well for a beginner to
-practice the directions for opening and shutting up hives by using an
-empty hive, until he becomes familiar with the handling of the frames.
-
-The first thing to do is to loosen the crown board or lid with a knife,
-drawing a piece of string underneath it to divide the wax or cement
-with which the bees make all secure. This string should be drawn
-through very slowly, so as not to irritate the bees. In hot weather,
-the crown board may be loosened by a lateral movement; but sometimes,
-for want of care, this loosening of the lid disturbs the bees, and as
-soon as it is removed, a number of them, enraged thereby, pour out and
-attack the operator. This and all other operations ought be done very
-carefully and gently; especial care should be taken not to prise the
-lid upwards, by way of wrenching it off, for the frames and combs are
-generally secured thereto, and there is a liability of rending the
-combs with it; this will greatly irritate the bees, and be otherwise
-injurious. When a hive of bees is enraged, there is little chance of
-pacifying them; it is best, under such circumstances to 'give in' at
-once, and not attempt to perform any operation, but to shut the hive up
-and beat a retreat, benefiting by the experience so as to do better in
-a day or so afterwards. There are various devices for intimidating or
-conciliating the bees, and one of these already spoken of is--smoke.
-So next time the experimenter makes his attempt let bill! raise the
-lid an inch or so, and blow a few puffs of smoke into the hive, which
-will cause the bees to retreat. This is best done by using our No.
-12 fumigator, with a little of the prepared fungus lighted. Pipes or
-cigars are not convenient to use for this purpose when the head is
-enveloped in the dress. As soon as the lid is removed, a few bees
-will fly out to learn the cause of such an interference. Conciliation
-should then be introduced by having at hand a little sweetened water,
-which may be sprinkled, or rather let drop from a feather or brush. The
-sudden motion of the hand required in the act of sprinkling irritates
-the bees, so that instead of making them our friends, they may become
-our foes. Mr. Langstroth recommends that a fine watering pot filled
-with sweetened water, be used for the purpose. Care must be taken not
-to drench the bees; only just sufficient should be given to run down
-the sides of the combs as well as sprinkling the top. As soon as the
-bees really understand that syrup is being given them, they feast upon
-it instead of angrily attacking the operator. Thus pacified, and with
-gentle treatment, but little difficulty will be found in proceeding
-with the work required. But the unskilled operator should on no account
-neglect to put on a bee-dress and gloves as described above. We would
-err on the side of caution, although there is an old saying that "a cat
-in gloves catches no mice," and the apiarian will find that his fingers
-are not so free to work as he would like, for gloves make them rather
-clumsy in drawing up the frames.
-
-The frames must now be gently prised from front to rear; this may be
-done with a small screw-driver or other stout instrument with a wedged
-end to go into the notches. The frames fit loosely so as to allow of
-a little movement from back to front; a lateral or side-way movement
-might kill the queen; or if not so fatal as that, might crush some of
-the bees and injure the brood combs, and must be carefully avoided. It,
-of course, depends upon what the operation is that has to be performed
-whether or no all the frames should be thus loosened. If it be for
-making artificial swarms, or for any purpose requiring an interview
-with her majesty, the whole of them must be loosened, because it often
-happens that all the combs have to be examined, sometimes twice over,
-before she can be discovered. Bees are very apt to build their combs
-in a slightly waving form, 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 comb, and there will be a difficulty if the apiarian attempts
-to draw out one comb whilst the other frames are located in their
-appropriate notches. Let the operator gently proceed to lift say the
-third frame (allowing it to lodge on the little block that divides the
-notches) a little nearer to the fourth frame, and the second nearer the
-third, so as to admit of sufficient space to lift out the end one. Very
-carefully and slowly he should lift the frame by taking hold with thumb
-and finger of the projecting shoulders that rest in the notch; 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 bees.
-
-After the end comb is thus removed, it will be easy to extract the
-others, as there will now be plenty of room for drawing them out. A
-hive of exactly the same size should be at hand; and in case it be
-desired to remove the combs and bees into another hive, care should be
-taken that each comb occupies the same relative position that it did in
-the old hive.
-
-In handling the frames, bear in mind that they are to be held
-perpendicularly. To gain a view of both sides of the comb when
-searching for the queen, or for any purpose requiring full inspection,
-with a little dexterity in twirling the frame round, the reverse side
-may be brought to face the operator, without letting the comb break
-away by its own weight and so fall out of the frame, which it will do
-if allowed to deviate from its upright or downright position. If the
-operator could see an experienced person perform the operation, he
-would quickly understand how combs may thus be handled without any risk
-of a smash.
-
-When placing frames in the hive, care must be taken not to crush a
-bee between the projecting shoulders of the frame and the rabbets or
-notches on which they rest, and on no account must the frame be let
-down with a jerk, or the bees will become exceedingly fierce: 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 thereby.
-The crown board should be replaced by first resting its front edge in
-its place, and then slowly lowering the after part, looking carefully
-under, and momentarily raising it when necessary to avoid crushing a
-bee. Should the hive have its super on, the same directions may be
-followed. The super with its honey board may be bodily taken away, and
-so placed and confined for a time that robber bees cannot find an
-entrance, and also be far enough from the apiarian to be out of danger
-of being broken or overturned by him.
-
-Advantages of Bar and Frame Hives.--It will be asked why
-all this trouble about bar and frames with straight combs built upon
-them? We have shown the full command which the bee-keeper has over a
-hive so constituted, and we now proceed to show how in skilful hands
-these advantages may be used successfully; though, in the hands of the
-unpractised and unskilful the contrary may be the result.
-
-All the bars and frames in an apiary ought to be of precisely the
-same dimensions, so as to fit every hive. This is essential for the
-strengthening of weak hives. A hive that is weakly may often be
-advantageously strengthened by having put into it a comb of brood from
-a populous stock, to which an empty frame from the weak one may be
-given; 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 taken. The frames of the hive from which the comb has been taken,
-should be, one by one, placed so as to fill in the vacancy, leaving
-the empty frame nearest the side. When a hive has been in use many
-years, the combs become very black, and every bee that is bred in a
-cell leaves a film behind. It may be understood how in this way the
-cells become contracted, so that the bees that are bred in them are
-correspondingly reduced in size. After the lapse of say five years, it
-may be necessary to begin to remove the old combs. This may be done by
-cutting away the comb or by substituting an empty frame for one with
-old black comb, gradually moving the frames towards each other. By
-taking two away in this manner in the spring or summer of every season,
-the combs in course of five years may all be reconstructed and fresh
-clean ones be secured for breeding in, instead of the old black ones
-that otherwise would remain as long as the stock could live in the hive.
-
-Artificial Swarming.--Every bee-keeper knows the anxiety there
-is in watching and expecting a swarm to come forth, fearful lest his
-favorites should, "like riches, take wing and fly away," a mischance
-that it is desirable to prevent. In our description of natural
-swarming this will be found fully treated of; we propose here merely
-to point out how, with the moveable frames, this work of nature may
-be assisted--we say assisted, because artificial swarming should, as
-nearly as possible, resemble natural swarming, that is, it should be
-performed at the same time of the year, and when the populous state of
-the hive makes a division desirable. This is easily known to be the
-case when bees hang out in clusters at the entrance, wasting their time
-in enforced idleness instead of being abroad gathering honey. It is
-also necessary that the hive contain drones.
-
-An empty hive should be placed on the stand when the living hive is
-removed, for the purpose of amusing returning bees. If the hive is
-kept in a bee-house, the entrance should be shut down unto the hive is
-restored, when the clustered bees may be at once admitted.
-
-When such is the state of the hive, the facility of forming an
-artificial swarm with a moveable frame hive is a decided advantage.
-The best time for performing the operation is about ten o'clock in
-the morning of a fine summer's day. The following directions should
-be carried out:--place ready a counter or bench that is firm and
-strong, and which has space on it for the inhabited--or rather the
-over-inhabited--frame hive and the empty one, which is about to be made
-the receptacle of a separate stock. The operator having on bee-dress
-and the other appliances ready, may now open the hive as before
-described, and proceed to take out the frames, carefully examining
-both sides of each comb to find the queen: she is generally in the
-centre of the hive, so that it is not always needful to take out all
-the ten frames. As they are examined, the frames may be put into the
-empty hive, and when the object of the bee-master's search is found,
-he must carefully remove the frame containing her majesty, and may
-place it temporarily in the empty hive at one end by itself. Next he
-must proceed to put the frames back into the old hive, closing up
-the vacancy caused by the removal of the comb with the queen on it,
-and leave the empty frame at the end. Then he may place the frame
-containing the queen--with the few bees that may be upon it--in the
-centre of the empty hive; then putting all the other frames in, and
-replacing the lid, the bee-master will place this hive in the exact
-position occupied by the old stock. The bees that are on the wing will
-go to the old spot, and finding the queen there, they will rally round
-her and very soon form a sufficient number to constitute a swarm; comb
-building will at once begin, the frames will in a week or so be filled,
-and a satisfactory stock will thus be established. By doing this at
-the right time, just before the bees are about to swarm, or when there
-are many drones, all the trouble of watching and waiting for them is
-saved. Mr. Woodbury claims the honour of having originated this mode
-of artificial swarming; subsequently Mr. Langstroth and others have
-described a similar process, no doubt originally, as far as they knew,
-therefore still more useful to us as a confirmation of the value of Mr.
-Woodbury's discovery.
-
-This operation we performed, exactly as described above, with one of
-our improved cottage hives one afternoon at the latter end of May,
-1862. Whilst inspecting our bees, we caught sight of the queen on the
-comb in one of the bell glasses. This was a chance not to be missed,
-and we immediately resolved to form an artificial swarm, for the hive
-was very full of bees. Besides, being obliged to be away from the
-apiary most of the week, we were glad of the opportunity of so easily
-establishing a colony without the uncertainty and trouble of hiving a
-natural swarm. In the first place we slid a tin under the bell glass,
-and removing the stock hive from underneath we took it a few feet away;
-then we placed an empty improved cottage hive where the old stock had
-stood, 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 hive. The bees
-that were left abroad, belonging to the old stock returned as usual to
-their old entrance as they supposed; soon a sufficient number formed a
-large cluster in the hive and began comb building, the queen remaining
-in the glass until the cells below were sufficiently numerous for her
-to deposit her eggs in them. The division answered exceedingly well,
-both hives prospered; the old hive either had some princesses coming
-forward to supply the loss of the queen, or the bees used a power that
-they possess of raising a queen from worker brood in the manner we have
-previously described.[5]
-
-[Footnote 5: See Section 1, page 5.]
-
-The foregoing account illustrates the successful formation of an
-artificial swarm; but with a cottage hive it was quite a matter of
-accident to have been able to get possession of the queen. With a
-moveable frame hive she can at any suitable time be found.
-
-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 hive, that
-is to remove it some few paces off: when the hives are in a bee-house,
-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 stock, and the
-old stock may be removed to an approximate entrance. Some apiarians
-recommend that a space be left between the two hives, by placing the
-hives on the right and left of the old entrance, in order that too
-large a proportion of bees should not enter the new hive at the old
-position to the impoverishment of the other. But we have found the mode
-adopted with the cottage hive answer so well, that we see no reason for
-recommending any different plan.
-
-It is the office of the bee-master to assist, not to go in the least
-degree contrary to nature. We know that when a natural swarm issues
-forth it has its impregnated queen, and when located in a new abode
-commences building worker combs, and leaves the building of the few
-drone combs to a later period; but if a division of the hive should be
-made by putting half the combs in one hive and half in another, the
-hive containing the queenless or embryo queen will busy itself with
-building only drone comb, thus a number of receptacles for useless bees
-is provided, which tends to weakness, and eventually to loss of the
-hive.
-
-In the plan we have recommended for forming two separate families, we
-nearly follow the natural state of things; the comb that the queen is
-upon is the only one that is taken from the hive, and this vacancy
-should be filled in by moving the frames together so as to leave
-the empty frame at the end. The bees, under the government of the
-impregnated queen, construct the combs and furnish their new abode,
-which, as before stated, they will do with worker cells.
-
-By adopting the plan above described, the moveable bar and frame hive
-will prove far superior to any of the dividing hives, which provide for
-equal division of the combs.
-
-Perhaps the greatest advantage the moveable frame hive possesses is,
-that a full knowledge can be attained of its exact state as regards the
-queen, the population and the quantity of food in stock. During weather
-of a genial temperature, the combs may on any fine day be inspected,
-and thus a knowledge being gained of the deficiency existing in a hive,
-the necessary means may be adopted for supplying the want. Sometimes
-such an examination will verify the fears of the bee-keeper, when,
-having observed that his bees have ceased to carry in pollen, he has
-thereby received warning that the queen has been lost at some juncture
-when no successor to the throne could be provided. Such a hive has
-entered on a downward course, and will dwindle away entirely unless a
-queen should be given to it, or else, some combs containing young brood
-not more than three days old. 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 them.
-
-When a bee-keeper has become skilful in his calling, he may be desirous
-to encourage the breeding of queens, or rather of preventing their
-destruction. 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 brood.
-
-Hives found to be queenless may be supplied either with matured queens
-or with queen cells. If the latter are sufficiently numerous, their
-introduction may easily be effected by exchanging a comb in each hive;
-if they have to be cut out and placed loosely in the new hive, a
-triangular piece of comb should then be removed with them, to be used
-as a block in preventing any pressure coming on them. A space must be
-cut out of the middle in the centre combs of the hive into which they
-are to be introduced. Special care must be taken not to bruise the
-royal embryos, as they are particularly sensitive to pressure.
-
-A very great advantage that the Woodbury bar and frame-hive possesses,
-is the safety and convenience with which a stock of bees can in it
-be transported to any part of the kingdom; and, by a few additional
-arrangements, stocks have been sent in it to distant countries. In many
-districts hives are removed to moors and heaths in autumn, for the
-purpose of gathering heather honey. In this operation the frames are
-a great support to the combs, very much lessening the risk of a break
-down and consequent loss.
-
-From a hive that has been inhabited all the winter, we have not
-unfrequently lifted out the frames and removed the stock to a clean
-hive, and we believe that the change has always been useful. The bees
-find a clean floorboard and a clean hive to breed in, free from insects
-that may have harboured in crevices about the hive. When the change
-has been made, the old hive can be thoroughly cleaned, and used in the
-same way for making the exchange with another stock. The process for
-handling will, of course, be the same as before described. We have
-found that where this plan has been carried out, that the bees seem to
-progress faster. Perhaps a little stirring up may be useful in arousing
-them from the winter doze; the time we recommend for doing this is the
-beginning of April, but a fine warm day should be chosen.
-
-
-DRIVING.
-
-Driving is an operation by which bees are induced to vacate an old
-settled hive and to enter an empty one. Many apiarians prefer this mode
-of effecting an exchange of hives to the plan of fumigating the bees.
-
-The greatest success attending such a transfer will be in the case of
-hives well filled with combs that are worked nearly to the floorboard;
-and it may be remarked that bees are generally so far provident, that
-they leave an open space in which to pass underneath their combs over
-all the floor of the hive. When the old hive is inverted, the bees
-crawl up the combs, and thus more easily pass up into the new hive,
-which the operator places over the old one with the intent that they
-should enter it.
-
-The best time for performing this operation is about the middle of
-the day, and when the weather is warm. It is essential that the
-operator be protected with a bee-dress and gloves, as before described;
-and previous to commencing his task, he must provide all necessary
-implements. These are:--a couple of hives, one of which should
-correspond in shape and size with the hive from which the bees are to
-be driven; a cloth to tie round at the junction when the new hive is
-placed on the old one; some string to keep the cloth in its place;
-an empty pail to receive the top of the old hive, if one of the old
-conical shape, but if the stock of bees is in a square box hive with a
-flat top, a firm stool will be the best; and a No. 12 fumigator with
-some fungus, which will complete the material of war. The bucket or
-stool must be placed securely on the ground about a yard from the place
-where the full hive stands; then a few puff's of smoke being blown in
-amongst the bees, will cause them to retreat up amongst the combs. The
-bee-master will now turn the hive[6] upside down very gently, letting
-it rest in the pail or on the stool; he then quickly places the empty
-hive over the full one, and ties the cloth round it to prevent any
-escape of the bees. If the cloth be damped, it will cling the closer
-to the hives. The third hive is intended to be placed on the stand
-formerly occupied by the stock, so as to retain the few returning
-bees which had been absent in the fields. Care must be taken that all
-crevices through which it is possible for the bees to escape from the
-united hives should be effectually closed. When the two are fairly
-united, the operator will proceed by rapping the full hive gently with
-the hands or a couple of sticks, more particularly on that side where
-the combs are the most thickly placed--that is, if the hive be not
-equally filled.
-
-[Footnote 6: Care should be exercised in turning the hives over to keep
-the combs vertical, or they are likely to break from their foundations.]
-
-It generally happens that in about fifteen minutes the bees regularly
-commence the ascent; their exodus will be known by the distinct rushing
-sound which is always noticed when a colony of bees is on the move.
-The first thing bees do when disturbed is to till their honey bags, as
-they invariably do at swarming time, consequently after the first rush
-into the new hive is over, as in the case of a swarm, the "flitting"
-bees are not much disposed to take wing. When the noise made by the
-ascending bees has been heard, and has in good degree subsided, the
-cloth may be removed, and the old hive, now deserted, may be taken
-indoors, and if a few bees yet remain, they may be brushed off with a
-feather. An experienced apiarian on first hearing the rushing noise
-before mentioned, will not hesitate to tilt the top hive over a little
-on one side, so that he may watch the bees during the ascent; the queen
-may be seen passing up, and if the operator desires to take her away,
-he can secure her by placing a wine glass over her. This expedient is
-often resorted to in the autumn when stocks are to be united, for in
-such a case the removal of the queen prevents some fighting.
-
-If the taking of the honey be the object of the bee-master, then
-"driving" is manifestly a better plan than to resort to the fumes of
-sulphur for the purpose; for the bees from whom their store is taken,
-can be joined to stocks that are weak in numbers, with considerable
-advantage to the future prosperity of the apiary.
-
-When the removed bees are to be joined to another stock, the operator
-will proceed as follows:--At dusk, dislodge the bees on to a cloth,
-sprinkle them with sweet syrup, and place the hive to which it is
-intended to join them, over the mass; they will gradually ascend into
-the hive placed for them, and early next morning the hive, with its
-slender stock thus augmented, may be removed to its stand. Should the
-operator not have been successful, or not sufficiently skilful to
-gain possession of the queen, he may leave it to the bees themselves
-to decide which queen they will have. By this plan of "driving,"
-artificial swarms may be secured by an "expert" even in common hives,
-though those do not afford the facilities for such a purpose as do the
-bar, or bar-and-frame, hives.
-
-
-CHANGING OLD STOCKS TO NEW HIVES.
-
-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 hives, in which the honey may
-be obtained without the destruction of the bees. We mostly discourage
-such a transfer, attended as it is with much labour, and requiring a
-considerable amount of apiarian skill. An old fashioned hive may very
-readily be rendered a humane one, simply by cutting out with a sharp
-pointed knife the middle of the top of the hive; a piece may thus
-easily be taken out, so as to leave a round hole two or three inches
-in diameter, but care must be taken that the knife does not penetrate
-much below the straw, lest it reach the comb or the bees--and it will
-be safer for the operator to have a bee-dress on. There should be ready
-a round adapting board, with a corresponding hole, which may be secured
-on the top by putting four long nails through the same number of holes
-in the board; then a cap hive or a glass may be placed on the top, for
-the purpose of admitting the bees, who will soon crowd therein to work.
-
-This hive or glass will form a super or depriving hive, and can be
-worked as profitably as most of the improved hives. Per the sake of an
-improved appearance, an outside case, either of zinc, straw, or wood,
-may be dropped over all, and then, if well painted, the whole will form
-no disfigurement to any flower garden.
-
-This is beyond doubt the easiest way of overcoming the difficulty, but
-as it may not satisfy all, we now proceed to describe how a complete
-transfer may be made. No hive offers such facilities for the correct
-placing of the combs in a perfectly upright position as does the bar
-and frame hive. As before remarked, 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 habits;
-but by carefully carrying out the following directions any one may
-successfully perform the feat. The first thing is to get the bees away
-from the combs; there are two ways of doing this, one is by fumigation
-(see page 60), the other by driving (see page 84). Whichever plan may
-be resorted to, have the bees confined in the old hive on their stand
-until you are quite ready to admit them into the bar and frame hive.
-Have in readiness all the necessary appliances: these consist of a
-large knife for cutting the hive, a good sized table on which to lay
-the brood combs, a basin of water--for washing off honey which may
-besmear the hands,--tape or cotton string to fasten the combs in their
-frames, a pair of honey cutters for cutting out the combs, jars to
-hold the honey that runs out, and a feather for brushing off any bees
-that may remain. It is necessary that the operator should have on his
-bee-dress, and India-rubber gloves. Then begin by slicing off a piece
-of the hive with a sharp table knife; carefully cut out the working
-combs--cut them large, so that they will squeeze into the frames; and
-to be more secure, wind some of the tape round to keep them in position
-until made fast by the bees. After a few days, these fastenings may be
-removed. Care should be taken that the combs occupy the same position
-in the frames as in the hive from which they were extracted. Having
-thus prepared the hive, the bees may be let into it. It may be as well
-to keep them confined a few hours, giving them water at the top, until
-they make the combs secure; the new hive will then be less likely
-to offer an attraction to bees from other hives who, if feloniously
-inclined, might come to rob. This transfer should be made when the
-weather is such that the bees can fly about; when not warm enough,
-it should be done in a room at a temperature of about 70 degrees. An
-expert apiarian could perform the operation in less than three quarters
-of an hour, and with little loss. A week or so after a swarm has left
-the old stock is perhaps the very best time for such a removal. Should
-the operation be performed in the open air, the bees from surrounding
-hives will be sure to come in great numbers to obtain a share of the
-honey necessarily exposed, for they delight in plunder. In order,
-therefore, to avoid annoyance to the operator, and the excitement which
-is certain to be induced in surrounding hives, it is better to conduct
-the dissection in some building with closed doors. In some instances a
-routing of this kind has a beneficial effect; old stocks of hives that
-have previously appeared to be dwindling, are often aroused to activity
-by their removal into a fresh domicile.
-
-
-WEIGHING HIVES, &c.
-
-One of the most effectual modes of ascertaining the condition of a hive
-is by weighing it. Such knowledge is most important at the close of the
-gathering season, 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 winter. A knowledge of the numerical strength of the colony
-is also useful, in enabling the bee-keeper to decide which hives will
-be benefited by being joined together, which may be done on the plan
-explained in the articles on "Fumigation" and "Driving."
-
-A hive can very easily be weighed, if a Salter's Spring Balance be
-suspended near the apiary. The hive, having a strap or cord passed
-under and over it, and crossing at right angles on the top, may be
-hooked on to the balance, so that the weight will be indicated on the
-dial. The weight of the hive should be marked on it when empty, so that
-the exact amount of its contents may at any time be ascertained. A
-colony of bees at Michaelmas ought to weigh from 20 to 24 pounds, that
-is, exclusive of the hive; if falling short of that weight, the hive
-should be made up to it by the artificial means before recommended.
-
-Experienced apiarians are able to judge of the weight of a hive by
-lifting it a few inches from the stand; or by looking in at the windows
-of a stock hive, a conclusive opinion may be formed as to the state of
-the colony. If the combs within view be well filled and sealed, it will
-be safe to consider that the hive contains sufficient stores to carry
-the bees through the winter.
-
-
-
-
-V. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION.
-
-
-STINGS: THEIR PREVENTION AND CURE.
-
-Some of our readers may deem us neglectful in having, as it were, left
-them to struggle through their bee-keeping novitiate without informing
-them how to avoid being stung by their docile but well armed flock.
-Of course, having described the bee-dress, we have supposed that
-the apiarian was clad, if not "in complete steel," at least, in the
-head-gear and gloves, which will render him invulnerable. The best
-safeguard from the anger of bees--as indeed from the malice of men--is
-a quiet and peaceable spirit. The apiarian will learn to handle his
-bees not only as "if he loved them,"--as the quaint angler says--but as
-if he fully believes that the bees love him. This they will do whenever
-he approaches and treats them gently. There are some cases of exception
-to this generally peaceable disposition of the bee; sometimes a few
-bees are dyspeptic, and refuse to be pacified--let their master seek
-to bribe them never so wisely. Then, too, sometimes the bee-master
-himself may be dyspeptic, which the unerring olfactory sense of the
-bees speedily detects, and their anger is immediately aroused. Some
-few persons, owing to constitutional peculiarities in their breath or
-insensible perspiration, are objects of constant animosity with bees,
-who by driving them from the apiary, are giving a physician's advice
-without charge for a fee. Some of the choicest perfumes used by ladies
-are offensive to bees: and one may feel very certain that the "fine
-puss gentleman," who disgusted the brave Hotspur with his "pouncet
-box" and praise of "'parmaceti for an inward bruise," would have been
-speedily driven from an apiary in ignominious flight. Occasionally,
-even a skilful apiarian may inadvertently crush a single bee; such a
-mischance is detected by the community with much more facility than by
-any "crowner's quest," and their prompt verdict decrees the summary
-punishment of the offender. There would be much less fear of stings if
-it were always remembered that bees are never aggressive. "Defence, not
-defiance," is their motto. They scarcely ever attempt to sting when
-away from the hive, and very seldom indeed at the time of swarming,
-for then they are gorged with honey. When molested by angry bees, the
-safest and best retreat is a green bush. Thrust your head into this,
-and the bees will soon leave you.
-
-Yet some people appear to think they must inevitably be stung if they
-meddle with bees; and for their sakes it is needful to explain why
-it is that a sting is painful, and how the wound inflicted by the
-bee may be cured. Those familiar with the usual microscopic objects
-will know how marvellously delicate, and yet effective, is the
-mechanical structure of a bee's sting. This weapon as we see it with
-our naked eye--finer than a needle's point--is only the sheath, which
-lengthens or contracts like the tubes of a telescope. From the sheath
-is projected the dart, which is double, each half of it piercing
-alternately deeper into the wound made by the sheath. The dart is
-barbed on each side, so that the bee when very angry is scarcely ever
-able to withdraw it:--
-
- "Deems life itself to vengeance well resigned;
- Dies on the wound, and leaves the sting behind."
-
-If the patient who receives the sting could only take it patiently, it
-would not prove half the inconvenience to him that often is the case.
-There are indeed some happy mortals whose "blood such an even tenour
-keeps," that a bee-sting is to them simply a puncture, and nothing
-more. Dr. Bevan has suggested that lovers should subject themselves to
-the ordeal of a bee-sting, in order to prove, we suppose, that their
-temper is proof against "the _stings_ and arrows of any outrageous
-fortune" that matrimony can bring.
-
-It is the homœpathically minute tincture of poison injected by the
-bee which causes inflammation. The first thing to do is to remove
-the sting, which, even when detached from the bee, will continue to
-penetrate still further into the wound. Next, press the hollow point
-of a watch-key exactly over the place stung; this will express a
-considerable portion of the virus. Then dip the hand or bathe the part
-with cold or tepid water, for the poison is volatile, and will thereby
-be dissipated to a great extent. On no account whatever should the part
-affected be rubbed; to do that will diffuse the poison, and increase
-the inflammation. The specific remedy for a bee-sting is taught us
-by chemistry: the venom is an acid, which an alkali will immediately
-neutralize when brought into contact with it. Spirits of hartshorn
-will generally be found effectual for the purpose, and should always
-be kept in an apiary. There are also several other remedies, more or
-less effectual, according to the special constitution of the patient. A
-strong infusion of tobacco water applied to the wound after the sting
-has been extracted, is a specific for many persons; others find relief
-from the application of a sliced onion.
-
-We have heard the remark from several who have kept bees for years,
-that the poison from a sting has little or no effect on them; after
-receiving many inflictions, their flesh appears to become so little
-affected that the swelling and pain at one time experienced no longer
-trouble them.
-
-
-POLLEN; OR, FOOD FOR INFANT BEES.
-
-Bees, when fully grown, feed almost wholly on honey; but the larvæ
-require for their development a more substantial kind of nourishment.
-Such solid fare is found by the bees in the pollen of flowers, a farina
-which contains some of those nitrogenous elements in which honey is
-deficient. The body of a worker-bee is covered with hairs, to which the
-pollen adheres when, by contact with the bee, it is rubbed from the
-anthers and stamens of flowers. The bee with its fore legs then brushes
-it off, and moulds it into the pellet shape suitable for carrying it in
-the "baskets" or grooves on its thighs. Dewy mornings or humid bowers
-suit the bees for the gathering of the pollen. If the atmosphere be too
-dry for kneading it into pellets, they roll themselves in the blossoms,
-and trust to the good offices of the bees at home, who, on their
-return, brush off the farina into the cells intended for it, A portion
-of this "bee bread" is taken at once by the "nursing bees," which are
-supposed to subject it to some change before offering it to the larvæ;
-but the greater part of the pollen is stored away, and sealed over in
-the cells for future use. In April and May the bees are frequently busy
-"all the day" in gathering pollen, and often one community of bees will
-collect about twenty pounds weight of "bee bread" in one season.
-
-One of the objects of the apiarian is to assist the bees in
-providing for the nurselings of the hive. A German pastor, Heer
-Dzierzon, first suggested the plan of providing the bees with
-"unbolted rye meal" as a substitute for the farina of flowers. He
-had observed that, in early spring before the flowers were open, his
-bees had entered a neighbouring corn mill, from whence they returned
-laden with rye flour. Since his discovery, most bee-keepers in early
-spring place either rye or wheat meal near the apiaries; to this
-artificial store the bees repair by thousands, and seem to rollick in
-the enjoyment of so much plenty, many of them returning to the hive as
-dusty as millers. The object in thus supplying them is, that the brood
-may be rapidly brought forward and early swarming induced. In this
-way, 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 price.
-
-In gathering pollen from flowers, bees are doing more than merely
-providing for their own community. Whilst humming through our gardens
-they are assisting to propagate our flowers, and their merry buzz in
-our orchards indicates that the blossoms of spring will in autumn
-fulfil their promise by abundance of fruit. In Mr. Darwin's remarkable
-work, "The Fertilization of Orchids," the mystery of the fructification
-of flowers is scientifically explained; but before the subject was
-so fully understood, it was quite believed that bees in passing from
-flower to flower performed some important service. Owners of fruit
-trees have noticed, in a season generally unfavourable for the orchard,
-that if during only one fine forenoon the bees had spread freely
-amongst the blossoms of a particular tree, that it would prove more
-fruitful than its fellows. On this account the orchard is a good place
-for an apiary, for it seems--more abundant the honey, more plentiful
-will be the fruit. Bees bear the fructifying matter from one sex of
-flowers to the other, but they confine their attention to one kind of
-flower during each excursion: 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 brown, according to the kind of flowers from which it has been
-gathered. The gathering of pollen, its use by the nursing bees, and the
-storing of it in the cells, afford to the bee-keeper opportunity for
-observations of exceeding interest.
-
-
-PROPOLIS; OR, BEES' CEMENT.
-
-The old notion that wax is gathered by bees from flowers as they gather
-honey, has long since been set aside by the discoveries of Hornbostel
-and Huber. Wax is an oily substance secreted from the honey in the
-bodies of the bees, on which it forms in thin flakes. But there is "a
-resinous substance, very tenacious and semi-transparent," which is
-indispensable for the bees as a cement wherewith to fix their combs
-and fortify their hives against intruders, and this is "propolis."
-The bees, in working the propolis, often soften it by blending it
-with a portion of wax; but they have to extract it in its natural
-state directly from the bark and buds of certain trees. The bark of
-the willow, the leaf buds of the poplar and alder, and the unopened
-blossoms of the hollyhock, are very usual sources of propolis. In the
-case of a new swarm, as bees must have this glue before they can
-begin to build their combs, they will resort to most unlikely places
-to obtain it. Sometimes they will enter a paint shop and attack the
-varnish, and it is said they have been seen to obtain propolis from the
-pitch and rigging of a ship. These circumstances afford intelligible
-hints to the apiarian, who, if his bees have not easy access to firs,
-poplars, or willows, will provide some glutinous or resinous matter
-which may serve for a substitute. The extracting of the propolis costs
-the bees very considerable labour, which they should be relieved of
-as much as possible, in order to facilitate their great work of honey
-gathering. Bees choose the warmer part of the day during which to
-gather propolis, as then it does not so rapidly stiffen. Frequently
-when they arrive at the hive it has become so hard that the other bees
-are scarcely able to gnaw it from their thighs.
-
-With propolis bees fasten down their hives, stop up crevices to exclude
-moths and ants, and sometimes use it to narrow the entrance of their
-hive against the invasion of wasps. Extraordinary anecdotes are told
-of the prompt and ingenious use they make of this substance. Reaumur
-relates that a snail having been observed by the bees on the window
-of the hive, they proceeded to glue the shell to the glass, and there
-sealed down the intruder in hopeless durance. In another case, that of
-a slug, or snail without a shell, the bees having slain it with their
-stings, were quite unable to remove it from the hive. With wonderful
-foresight, they then proceeded to secure their community from the
-noxious effects likely to arise from the decay of the carcase; and
-this they did by completely enveloping it with a coating of impervious
-varnish. Huish relates a similar occurrence in the case of a mouse
-caught in a hive by bees. Propolis yields benzoic acid, and contains
-some aromatic properties.
-
-
-
-PASTURAGE FOR BEES.
-
- "Bees work for man; and yet they never bruise
- Their master's flower, but leave it, having done,
- As fair as ever, 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 bees. Yet bee-fanciers
-are always interested in observing which the flowers are that the bees
-prefer; and there are certain well established conclusions as to the
-kind of district and season which are the likeliest to produce a good
-honey harvest. There is an old saying that a country which produces
-the finest wool also yields the best honey; and a pastoral district is
-decidedly better than one under tillage. The principle of the matter
-is, that the bees are best suited with a long dry season--an early
-spring, a hot summer, and a late autumn. As not one of these blessings
-can be commanded by the apiarian, his art must be applied to provide
-some mitigation of the injury suffered by the bees when the season is
-short or wet. For early spring, the crocus, the blue hepatica, and the
-violet, all afford good supplies of honey, and if cultivated near the
-apiary, will be of great service when the wild flowers are backward.
-All varieties of the willow and poplar furnish early supplies of honey,
-as well as of the propolis of which we have spoken; the blossoms of
-the gooseberry and currant are very useful for the bees in May. Wet,
-when it enters flowers of any kind, prevents the proboscis of the bee
-from reaching the secret source of honey. On this account, it is well
-to know, as does the bee, that the drooping blossoms of the raspberry
-escape the effect of the showers, and honey is gathered from them when
-other flowers are drenched within as well as without. For a similar
-reason, the borage (_borago officinalis_) is valuable for bees; and,
-also, because that plant continues to flower until the frosts set in.
-The honey both from raspberry blossoms and borage is very superior. Mr.
-Langstroth says that "the precipitous and rocky lands of New England,
-which abound with the wild red raspberry, might be made almost as
-valuable as some of the vine-clad terraces of the mountain districts
-of Europe." The "golden rod," and also asters, afford superior honey
-for autumn gathering. Dzierzon strongly recommends buck-wheat being
-sown in the winter stubbles on behalf of the bees, and he tries hard
-to persuade farmers that it is to their interest to cultivate it. It
-should be named that all the ordinary fruit blossoms, especially those
-of the apple, supply abundant store for bees.
-
-It is, however, to wild or field flowers that the bee-master must
-chiefly look for the raw material on which his myriad artisans shall
-exert their skill. 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 them. There are also two or three
-peculiar sources of honey which one would not have suspected, as, for
-instance the blossoms of the onion plant, of turnips, and in still
-greater degree, the flower of the mustard plant. In those districts
-of England where mustard seed is cultivated so extensively, it would
-be well worth while for the farmers to keep large colonies of bees.
-Another, but a very uncertain source of honey, is the "honey-dew,"
-which in some seasons appears in large quantities on the leaves of the
-oak, the lime, and some other trees.
-
-It is important to mention that bees in the principal breeding season
-require a plentiful supply of water. Owing either to their carelessness
-or eagerness, they are frequently drowned when drinking from any large
-quantity of water; the bee-keeper should, therefore, place near the
-hives shallow vessels of water containing pebbles, on which the bees
-may alight to take frequent but temperate draughts.
-
-
-THE LIGURIAN OR ITALIAN ALP-BEE.
-
-A new, or rather a re-discovered, variety of bee has recently been
-brought into practical use amongst apiarians in Germany and America, as
-well as in this country. The ordinary bee is the _Apis Mellifica_ of
-naturalists; the new kind is the _Apis Ligustica_. It was also named
-"The Ligurian Bee" by the Marquis de Spinola, who found it in Piedmont
-in 1805; and he considered it to be the principal species known to
-the Greeks, who speak of the "best kind" of bee as being of a red
-colour. Leading apiarians agree in pronouncing these bees to be justly
-entitled to the high character given to them. Their special advantages
-are--greater fecundity of the queens, less irascibility, and a more
-handsome appearance, for being of a golden colour, they are prettier
-than our black bees.
-
-Our own experience with the Italian Alp-bee enables us to corroborate
-the statements which have been made in favour of this new variety. We
-find the queens more prolific than those of the common kind, and the
-quantity of honey produced is greater. These two facts stand as cause
-and effect; the bees being multiplied more quickly, the store of honey
-is accumulated more rapidly, and the Italian bees consume, if anything,
-less food than the common kind. When of pure Italian blood, these bees
-are by some apiarians thought to be hardier than our own. That they
-forage for stores with greater eagerness, and have little hesitation in
-paying visits to other hives, we can testify from our own observation.
-The following anecdote will illustrate their intrusive propensities.
-Another bee-keeper living in the neighbourhood of our apiary, when
-inspecting our hives, observed the yellow bees; he exclaimed, "Now I
-have found out where those strange-looking bees come from; for," said
-he, "these yellow-jackets are incessant visitors to my hives. I thought
-they were a species of wasps that had come to rob, and until now I have
-been unable to account for their appearance at the entrance of my hive,
-so that I have killed them by hundreds." This was not at all pleasing
-intelligence for us, and we trust that our neighbour has been more
-lenient to "the yellow-jackets" since his visit. We are inclined to
-believe that more visiting takes place amongst bees of different hives
-than bee-keepers have been accustomed to suppose; where the Italian and
-black bees are kept near each other, the foreigners being conspicuous
-by their lighter colour, there is less difficulty in identifying them
-when at the entrances of other hives.
-
-This season (1864) we have had more honey from a Ligurian stock than
-from any one of our colonies of black bees. From this Ligurian hive
-we have taken a glass super containing 40 lbs. nett of honey, besides
-having drawn from it an artificial swarm; and, after all, it remains
-the strongest hive in our apiary.
-
-The Baron Von Berlepsch and Pastor Dzierzon, who are probably the two
-most intelligent and skilful bee-keepers of Germany, award to the
-Italian a very decided preference over the common bees. The Baron says
-that he has found:--1. That the Italian bees are less sensitive to
-cold than the common kind. 2. That their queens are more prolific. 3.
-That the colonies swarm earlier and more frequently. 4. That they are
-less apt to sting. 5. They are more industrious. 6. That they are more
-disposed to rob than common bees, and more courageous and active in
-self defence. They strive, whenever opportunity offers, to force their
-way into colonies of common bees; but when strange bees attack their
-hives, they fight with great fierceness, and with incredible adroitness.
-
-It is said, that the Italian bee can extract honey from some flowers
-which the common bee is unable to penetrate. For instance, the blossom
-tubes of the red clover being too deep for the proboscis of the common
-bee, that flower is useless to them, although so plentiful; but, says
-Mr. Langstroth, the American apiarian, the Italian bee visits the red
-clover assiduously, and draws large quantities of honey from it.[7]
-
-[Footnote 7: This opinion is not held by the closest observer of
-Italian bees in England.]
-
-The introduction of this new variety of bee into England was through
-our agency. M. Hermann, a bee cultivator at Tamins-by-Chur, Canton
-Grison, Switzerland, wrote to us on the 5th July, 1859, offering to
-supply us with Italian Alp queen bees. This letter, or an extract from
-it, appeared in the current number of the _Journal of Horticulture_,
-(then called the _Cottage Gardener_,) a periodical that regularly
-opens its columns to apiarian subjects. Prior to this the _Italian
-Alp_, or as it has been named the "Ligurian" bee, was unknown in
-this country, except to a few naturalists. The letter referred to
-attracted the attention of that intelligent apiarian T. W. Woodbury,
-Esq., now so well known as the "Devonshire Bee-keeper." On the 19th
-of July, that is a fortnight after Mr. Hermann's offer, we received a
-consignment of Italian Alp bees, being the first imported into England,
-with these, Mr. Woodbury also received one queen-bee and a few workers,
-which he introduced into a hive of English bees from which the queen
-had been taken. His efforts were very successful, and "the spring
-of 1860 found him in possession of four Ligurianized stocks." His
-subsequent experience with the Italian Alp bee he has fully described
-in a communication to _The Bath and West of England Agricultural
-Journal_.
-
-Subsequently Mr. Hermann sent us a copy of his pamphlet entitled "The
-Italian Alp Bee; or, the _Gold Mine of Husbandry_," with the request
-that we should have it translated from the German, and that copies of
-it should be printed in the English language. The pamphlet was speedily
-published by us, and although singular as a literary production, it may
-be useful for the advanced apiarian.
-
-Certainly the bees are partially of an orange or golden colour, and if
-one could believe the golden anticipations indulged in by Mr. Hermann
-respecting them, it would be sufficient to identify the Italian Alp bee
-as the species described by Hood in Miss Kilmansegg;--those which dwelt
-in
-
- "A golden hive, on a golden bank,
- Where golden bees, by alchemical prank,
- Gather gold instead of honey."
-
-Poor Hermann himself did not profit by the discovery of the mine. 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 prison. By the latest accounts we learn that--his ardent
-spirit chafing against his incarceration,--he had made an attempt to
-escape, and in doing so, fell from the prison walls and broke both
-legs. We understand that he has since died.
-
-In the pamphlet referred to, Mr. Hermann gives the following
-description of what he insists on designating as _Apis Helvetica_:--
-"The yellow Italian Alp-bee is a mountain insect; it is found between
-two mountain chains to the right and left of Lombardy and the Rhetian
-Alps, and comprises the whole territory of Tessins, Veltlin, and
-South-Graubunden. It thrives up to the height of 4,500 feet above the
-level of the sea, and appears to prefer the northern clime to the
-warmer, for in the south of Italy it is not found. The Alps are their
-native country, therefore they are called _Yellow Alp-bee_, or tame
-house bees, in contra distinction to the black European bees, whom we
-might call common forest bees, and who, on the slightest touch, fly
-like lightning into your face.(?)
-
-"As all good and noble things in the world are more scarce than common
-ones, so there are more common black bees than of the noble yellow
-race, which latter inhabit only a very small piece of country, while
-the black ones are at home everywhere in Europe, and even in America."
-
-Notwithstanding the death of M. Hermann, we shall in future be able to
-supply all bee-keepers, who may wish to possess stocks of the genuine
-yellow Alpine bees.
-
-The Italian varies but little from the common bees in its physical
-characteristics. The difference in appearance consists in the first
-rings of the abdomen, except the posterior edge, and the base of the
-third--being of an orange colour instead of a deep brown. These orange
-coloured parts are transparent when closely examined with the sun
-shining on them. The Italian bees are more active than common bees when
-on the wing.
-
-During the summers of 1859 and 1860 we had over from the Continent a
-great number of Ligurian queens; these were sent to all parts of the
-kingdom. We regret to say that but few were successfully united to
-English stocks. It requires a considerable amount of apiarian skill to
-accomplish the union, so that we find by experience it is best to send
-out complete Ligurian stocks. This is particularly desirable now that
-the packing of whole hives is so easily accomplished by us with the aid
-of bars and frames. We have sent a great number of stocks to all parts
-by rail.
-
-Mr. Woodbury, owing to his knowledge and skill in bee-keeping, was
-eminently successful in propagating the Ligurian bees first imported
-into this country; and we would recommend all who may be interested in
-the subject, to peruse the interesting articles written by him in the
-_Journal of Horticulture_. He has shown great patience and energy by
-his labours in the rearing of queens and the multiplication of stocks,
-for which he merits all praise. On the other hand, Mr. Woodbury has
-to thank the Ligurian bees for the development of his own skill, for
-although prior to this he was a valued correspondent to the before
-named Journal, his commencement of scientific bee-keeping must be dated
-from the time of their introduction.
-
-We now add to the other testimonies already cited, that of Mr. Woodbury
-as to the superior qualities of the Ligurian bees. The following is
-extracted from a paper contributed by him to the _Bath and West of
-England Agricultural Journal_:--"From my strongest Ligurian stock I
-took eight artificial swarms in the spring, besides depriving it of
-numerous brood-combs. 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 egg, I was reluctantly compelled to put on a super. When this
-had been filled with. 88 lbs. of the finest honey-comb,[8] I removed
-it, and as the stock-hive (a very large one) could not contain the
-multitude of bees which issued from it, I formed them into another very
-large artificial swarm. The foregoing facts speak for themselves; but
-as information on this point has been very generally asked, 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 with."
-
-[Footnote 8: This super was exhibited at our stand in the International
-Exhibition of 1862.]
-
-After such decided testimony as this, corroborated, as it is, by many
-other observers, there seems every reason to expect that the Ligurian
-bee will gradually supersede the common kind throughout the United
-Kingdom.
-
-
-LIVING BEES AT THE INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION OF 1862, SENDING BEES TO
-AUSTRALIA, &c.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-The engraving represents our stand in the Agricultural Department of
-the International Exhibition of 1862. The space granted us in the
-World's great Fair was somewhat limited; but we were able to exhibit
-a tolerably complete stock of apiarian apparatus and all the more
-important bee-hives. Amongst these was a Unicomb Hive stocked with
-the Yellow Alpine or "Ligurian" bee. This was an object of great
-attention, and daily hundreds of visitors flocked round our stand in
-order to watch the movements of the Italian queen with her gay and busy
-subjects. The entrance way for the bees being in the "Open Court," to
-which all visitors had access, it was necessary to place the hive in an
-elevated position, so as for it to be beyond the reach of incautious
-passers by, and to obviate any chance of annoyance to the vast crowds
-of people continually around.
-
-Among others who took a deep interest in our exhibition, was Mr. Edward
-Wilson, President of the Acclimatisation Society of Victoria. This
-gentleman requested us to pack four stocks of the Ligurian bees for
-conveyance to Melbourne. With the assistance of Mr. Woodbury--whose
-aid was, indeed, essential--these stocks were sent off on the 25th of
-September, 1862, by the steam ship Alhambra, so as to arrive at the
-colony during the Austral summer. The hives were Woodbury-frame hives,
-having ample space and ventilation, as well as the means of supplying
-water to their inmates during the voyage; there was, also, a sufficient
-store of honey to last until the following March. The bees arrived at
-Melbourne, where they were released after an imprisonment of seventy
-nine days, and have since rapidly multiplied, the climate and pasturage
-of Australia greatly favouring the increase of this superior variety of
-the bee.
-
-Mr. Wilson was so well pleased with the careful manner in which these
-stocks were fitted out for their voyage across the seas, that he
-subsequently instructed us to prepare him three more hives, which were
-sent out in a sailing vessel. Owing to the mismanagement of the water
-supply during the voyage, only one stock survived in this instance.
-
-Upwards of twenty years ago, we sent a Nutt's Hive stocked with bees
-to New Zealand. We then adopted the plan of fixing the hive in a meat
-safe, so that the bees could fly about a little, and also cleanse
-the hive of their dead, for bees are very attentive to sanitary
-arrangements; they always remove the dead ones from their midst, and do
-not void excrement within the hive.
-
-When bees are shut up in their hives too long, they are apt to be
-attacked by a disease called by apiarians--dysentery. Sometimes when
-confined by the unfavourableness of the weather in winter or the
-lateness of spring, this disease produces serious mischief amongst the
-bees. Various remedies have been recommended; but we believe the best
-is to see that there is wholesome food within the hive, and plenty of
-it, and when fine weather returns, the health of the bees will return
-with it. Dampness of the hives, and too late feeding in the autumn, are
-also frequent causes of this disease.
-
-
-BEE-KEEPING IN LONDON.
-
-There are many persons now in this noisy city pent, who frequently
-remember the days of childhood when, among pastures of clover or amidst
-flowery heath and woodlands, they listened to the cheerful hum of bees.
-Partly from a desire to revive those old associations, and also from a
-natural liking for the tendance of living creatures, 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 success. We do not wonder that many
-should doubt even the possibility of bees feeding themselves amidst
-such an "endless meal of brick;" but we can easily prove that bees,
-if not placed too near to smoky chimneys, are able to produce honey,
-both for themselves and for their masters. To make this plain, we will
-mention some special instances of metropolitan bee-keeping.
-
-About ninety years ago, a Mr. Wildman kept a bee-house and honey
-warehouse near to Middle Row, Holborn. He was not only a tradesman, but
-was also the apiarian of his day. He kept hives of thriving bees on
-the roof of his house in Holborn, and many of the nobility and gentry
-used to mount thither in order to inspect the apiary. At that period,
-St. Pancras was a "village two miles north-west of London," and what
-is now the Regent's Park was open country. It was then much easier for
-London bees to find their favourite forage, but Mr. Wildman believed
-that his hives were filled with stores from a considerable distance.
-Whilst enjoying his country rambles on Hampstead Heath, he had a
-shrewd suspicion that many of the bees he there observed gathering
-honey were Labourers from his own apiary. In order to identify his
-own flock amongst the rest, he hit upon a homely but very effective
-expedient. Having borrowed Mrs. Wildman's "dredging box," he stationed
-himself near the entrance of his hives, and gently dusted his bees with
-flour as they issued forth. He then betook himself to Hampstead, where
-he found his previous surmise confirmed, for there were numbers of his
-bees in their livery of white.
-
-Wildman became noted for the remarkable control he obtained over his
-bees, many instances of which he exhibited before the public. Many
-of his operations with them were regarded as feats of legerdemain
-by the uninitiated, as when he appeared before the king George III.
-with a swarm of bees hanging in festoons from his chin, or suspended
-in a cluster at arm's length. The Journal of Horticulture recently,
-in alluding to Wildman, gives the following particulars as to his
-performances:--
-
- Near the "Three Hats," Islington, was a place of popular
- entertainment called "Dobney's Tea Gardens," kept by Mrs. Ann
- Dobney. These gardens occupied the ground between White Lion Street
- and Winchester Place, and were established as far back as 1728. In
- 1771 the house was taken for a short time as a boarding school;
- but it was soon changed to its original purpose as a place of
- amusement, for in 1772 Daniel Wildman exhibited bees here. This is
- a copy of the advertisement:--
-
- "June 20, 1772. Exhibition of bees on horseback! at the Jubilee
- Gardens, Islington, (late Dobney's), this and every evening until
- further notice (wet evenings excepted.)
-
- "The celebrated Daniel Wildman will exhibit several new and
- amazing experiments, never attempted by any man in this or any
- other kingdom before. The rider standing upright, one foot on
- the saddle and one on the neck, with a mask of bees on his head
- and face. He also rides standing upright on the saddle with the
- bridle in his mouth, and by firing a pistol, makes one part of
- the bees march over the table, and the other swarm in the air and
- return to their hive again, with other performances too tedious to
- insert. The doors open at six; to begin at a quarter before seven.
- Admittance:--Box and gallery, 2s.; the other seats. 1s."
-
-The secret of Wildman's skilful manipulation is well understood now; it
-consisted in a careful holding and disposal of the queen, together with
-confidence in the generally inoffensive disposition of bees. Dr. Evans,
-whom we have often quoted for his correct information in apiarian
-matters, thus speaks of his feats:--
-
- "Such was the spell which, round a Wildman's arm.
- Twined in dark wreaths the fascinated swarm;
- Bright o'er his breast the glittering legions led.
- Or with a living garland bound his head.
- His dextrous hand, with firm yet hurtless hold,
- Could seize the chief, known by her scales of gold,
- Prune, 'mid the wondering train, her filmy wing.
- Or o'er her folds the silken fetter fling."
-
-To recur to our subject. After the days of Wildman, our own
-establishment in Holborn became widely known for bee hives and
-honey. Although we never attempted to start a London apiary at all
-approaching in extent that of our predecessor, we have occasionally
-kept bees on the house top both in Holborn and Regent Street. At both
-those situations, we have noticed that the bees bring "pollen" as
-well as honey into their hives. Last summer there was brought under
-our notice an illustration of the acuteness of the scent of bees, and
-of their diligent search for food, proving too that if sweets can be
-obtained even from unusual sources, the bees will find them out. A poor
-woman who, at the corner of an adjacent street vends "brandy balls,"
-"toffee," "rock," and other saccharine compounds--all well known to and
-appreciated by most juveniles,--used to receive frequent visits from
-our bees. Their visits to the old dame's domain were at first rather
-interesting, and if the few pioneers who had the sagacity to find such
-a store had kept the secret only to themselves, their company would
-not have been objected to. Such selfish policy does not, however,
-accord with the social instinct of bees, and these soon informed their
-companions of the good fortune provided for them in an archipelago
-of sugar islands. Day by day the swarms of these uninvited visitors
-increased, until all legitimate customers were beaten off; and the old
-dame had to see, not only her hope of gain destroyed, but her stock of
-"goodies" sensibly diminishing by the thefts of these brigands of the
-air. She could not, or dare not attempt to, drive the intruders away,
-so made diligent enquiry as to where the robbers were harboured. Having
-traced them to our establishment in Regent Street, she came to implore
-of us to move the bees if possible, or she would have to move her
-stall, and so lose her "connection" in the "toffee" and "rock" trade.
-Wishing not to hinder the poor woman in gaining her livelihood, we
-decided on removing our bees into the country.
-
-It is difficult to assign an exact limit to the distance that bees
-will go in search of honey yielding blossoms. It has been proved by
-various experiments that they will fly say five or six miles, if the
-supplies are scanty within a shorter radius; but bees well understand
-that first of all economies,--the saving of time, and if they can find
-forage near at hand, they prefer it. Hence, other things being equal,
-the quantity of honey stored will be in proportion to the contiguity of
-good pasturage. In this way it is that the systematic removal of hives,
-as practiced in many districts, has such a notable effect on the honey
-harvest.
-
-During several years we kept bees in the Zoological Gardens, Regent's
-Park, and have there frequently taken full and handsome glasses of
-honey. The position of our apiary was on the site now occupied by the
-"New Monkey House." The Society promise to erect a new building for an
-apiary in the course of the ensuing summer. The visitors to the Gardens
-found considerable interest in watching the bees in our glass hives,
-and are now much disappointed at the absence of so entertaining an
-exhibition.
-
-A gentleman residing in St. James's Place, has for some considerable
-time past kept bees in his garden there. He uses our improved cottage
-hives, and his bee-keeping is decidedly successful as he generally
-takes some fine glasses of honey each season, besides leaving
-sufficient as winter store for the bees. For a London situation, St.
-James's Place is a very favourable one; the gardens behind the houses
-pleasantly face the Green Park, so that the bees have an uninterrupted
-flight to start with. 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 Parks. To those gardens the bees of St.
-James's Place resort, without waiting for any license or certificate
-from the royal and noble owners of the honey yielding preserves. Being
-within a short distance of our establishment, when this gentleman's
-bees swarm he generally sends to us for assistance in hiving them.
-
-The neighbourhood of St. John's Wood, and indeed almost all the suburbs
-of London, are favourable for the production of honey. We mention St.
-John's Wood because, from the fact of having kept bees there ourselves,
-we are able to prove by our experience that they do well in that
-locality. We have several customers on nearly all sides of the town,
-who have each had this year a considerable surplus of honey in their
-"supers," after leaving sufficient for the bees themselves in the lower
-or stock hives.
-
-We exhibited in our window last autumn a super of fine honey from the
-apiary of Shirley Hibberd, Esq., the proprietor and editor of the
-_Gardiner's Weekly Magazine_. It is a box containing 20 lbs. nett
-weight of honey, and was produced at Stoke Newington, only 3¼ miles
-from the General Post Office.
-
-The _Times_ "Bee-Master," whose letters from Tunbridge Wells have
-awakened so much interest in this pleasing pursuit, also commissioned
-us to exhibit a "super," produced under his own management in that
-locality. A friend of ours at Exeter had upwards of 400 lbs. of honey,
-of excellent quality, though one of his apiaries is quite within the
-city.
-
-The last has been an excellent honey yielding season; our own bees, at
-Dorking, in Surrey, have produced us large quantities, and the accounts
-from nearly all parts of the country coincide in stating that the bees
-have in the year, 1864, enjoyed unusual opportunities for accumulation.
-In not a few localities, the season of 1863 was even more abundant.
-
-
-WASPS AND MOTHS.
-
-Bees have few enemies more formidable than wasps. The most effectual
-method of checking their invasion of hives, is to have as narrow an
-entrance as the bees can do with. If a stock be not very weak in
-numbers, the bees will be well able to guard a small aperture, and can
-repel the attacks of those insidious and merciless robbers. On this
-account, the entrance to our No. 5 hive as described at page 31, may be
-used.
-
-The bee-keeper is interested in preventing the increase of wasps; it
-is, therefore, a good practice for him to set a price on queen wasps in
-the spring, the death of one of them at that time being equivalent to
-the destruction of a whole nest.
-
-Should nests be found in the neighbourhood of an apiary, their
-annihilation must be accomplished either by blowing them up with
-gunpowder, an operation well understood by most country lads; or any
-other effectual method. The late Mr. Payne recommended that a small
-quantity of gas tar should be put into the mouth of a wasp's nest, and
-if then covered with earth, the total destruction of the wasps will
-be accomplished without further trouble. But to use blazing straw for
-the purpose is always dangerous in country districts. We have lately
-heard of a very ingenious and successful mode of entrapping and killing
-wasps. Place some sugar or strongly sweetened compound on the ground in
-a garden, and place over it a square hand glass, wedged up an inch or
-so all round. On this glass, which should have an opening at the apex,
-lodge another, but a sound one. The wasps, attracted by the sweets,
-will soon crowd under the lower glass, and when they have well feasted,
-will ascend into the upper one; there, between the two, they soon
-become scorched and perish by the heat of the sun shining on the outer
-glass.
-
-The season of 1864 was most productive for the increase of these prime
-pests of the apiary, and many hives have severely suffered by their
-depredations. When once wasps in any number have gained an entrance
-into a hive, the bees can seldom eject them, and the invaders generally
-remain until they have freely regaled themselves from the luscious
-store. They not only consume the honey, but cause a good deal of worry
-to the legitimate inhabitants of the hive, as well as killing the
-foremost defenders of it. Wasps being of so much superior strength, it
-requires, at least, three bees to master one of them.
-
-Having suffered loss in our own apiary from the attacks of wasps,
-we feel it desirable to give a detailed account of our own troubles
-from that cause. One of our Ligurian stocks was besieged and worried
-by wasps to such an extent, that the bees deserted it on the 5th
-of September, (1864). Fortunately, the bees chose a time for their
-departure just as we visited the apiary. An unusual turmoil was heard
-in the hive, such as is experienced at the time of swarming, and on
-immediately examining the entrance, we observed that the bees were
-quitting in tumultuous haste. The usual methods that induce bees to
-settle were tried--amongst others, that of throwing sand up into
-the air, so as it should fall down amongst the bees on the wing;
-but they were dispersed in disorder, and their flight extended over
-three adjacent gardens. We only discovered the clustered bees by
-diligent search, as the sequel will show. Permission being asked of
-our next door neighbour, we searched his garden to see if our bees
-had alighted there; but found that they had passed over. Making a
-similar application to the owner of the garden adjoining, we entered,
-having a straw hive in hand, but no bees were there. After looking
-diligently all round, and climbing the wall, thereby gaining a view
-of the third garden, we perceived in it unmistakable signs of an
-unwonted commotion. The occupiers of the house were intently looking
-at a particular part of the garden, and there was a dustpan and a key,
-with which the master had been "tanging the bees" to induce them to
-settle. We quickly made for the proper entrance to the garden, and
-soon discovered our little wanderers clustered to a large flower vase.
-Our neighbours, however, were sadly disappointed of their prize, for
-the gardener had hastily been dispatched into the town to purchase
-a hive for the welcome colonists. In depriving our neighbours of so
-unexpected and cheaply acquired a treasure, we could sympathise with
-their regret, having been much disheartened half-an-hour before at
-our own loss; but, of course, we could do no other than claim our own
-bees. We gladly agreed to defray the expense of the straw hive that had
-been purchased for the sake of our truant swarm. After brushing the
-bees into the hive, and leaving it propped up with a stick, in order
-that the stray ones might join, we returned home for an hour or so,
-to give them time to settle. Judge of our vexation when on returning
-to fetch the hive home, we found that the refractory creatures had
-again taken flight, and that all the work was to do over again. The
-wasps were not to blame for this second flight of the Ligurians; 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 house. Although much disheartened and perplexed, we
-at once renewed our search, and, upon enquiry, found that the missing
-bees had taken a southerly course across the turnpike road, and it was
-therefore necessary to ask permission to search the gardens of the
-houses opposite. From one of these we observed, on looking through the
-hedge, that the inhabitants of the next house were on the _qui vive_.
-On enquiring whether they had seen a colony of bees, the wary old dame
-replied that she "had no bees but her own," and added that "they were
-very much excited." Having asked permission to go through the hedge
-to look at her bees, we soon discovered our Ligurians on the top of
-the old lady's bee-house. There was no difficulty in identifying our
-own bees; their yellow rings were as good as a private mark. Quickly
-hiving the swarm, we took them home, and replaced them in the hive
-they had quitted. It was almost destitute of honey; but by liberal
-feeding, and lessening the entrance so that only one bee at a time
-could find ingress or egress, we succeeded in inducing them to rest in
-their old home. Thus nearly half a day's exertion was needed to save a
-fine colony, which would otherwise have been utterly lost by the power
-of the relentless wasps.
-
-Much watchfulness is needed to prevent the loss of swarms, and the
-foregoing incident may serve to suggest the necessity of having hives
-so located as to be constantly within view, either from the dining
-room, or of those whose duties oblige them to be near the apiary. If
-we had not happened to be at hand at the moment this colony started,
-it would have been irretrievably lost to us. Many swarms and colonies
-are lost simply because the departure takes place without any one
-witnessing it. 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 described.
-
-Another formidable enemy of bees are the moths. These insects are
-creatures of the night, as the bees of the day, and they make their way
-into the hives under cover of darkness, in spite of the bee-sentinels.
-They deposit their eggs in any crevices in or near the hive that they
-can find. There the warmth of the hive or of the sheltered situation,
-causes the eggs speedily to hatch, and then the maggots soon work their
-way to the comb and larvæ food, which they greedily devour, thereby
-often bringing about the gradual but certain destruction of the whole
-community of bees. The best way of keeping moths outside the hives
-is to lessen the entrance, as before alluded to. Also, in the early
-spring, the hives should be lifted from their floorboards, which must
-then be made thoroughly clean, and all crevices and corners about the
-hive and stand should be scraped, so as to get rid of all eggs of moths
-and other insects before the warm weather hatches them or enables them
-to do mischief. The bee-moth is not so troublesome in England as it
-is in America and some parts of Germany; but still its encroachments
-should be carefully guarded against in this country, for if not, it may
-easily increase to a very serious extent.
-
-
-DRAINING HONEY FROM THE COMBS.
-
-Those of our readers who prefer eating "run honey" to honey in the
-comb, may be glad of some instruction as to the best way of separating
-the two. For this purpose, it is better to let the honey run without
-squeezing, in order to preserve both its transparency and flavour.
-
-Take a sharp knife, and slice the combs on both sides, keeping the
-knife parallel with the partition wall, so that every cell may be laid
-open. Place these broken combs in a sieve, or on a piece of muslin
-stretched across and tied round the opening of a pan or large mouthed
-jar. Allow the honey to flow out of the combs spontaneously, and
-reserve the squeezing process for a separate jar, so that the honey of
-the first drained jar may be perfectly pure, both in appearance and
-flavour. That which has pressure put on it will be waxy in flavour and
-thick. Some persons recommend that the opened combs be placed in the
-sun, as the heat will cause the honey to run more freely. The great
-disadvantage of this is, the temptation the honey will offer to bees,
-who will be eager to gain a share. Honey whilst in the combs keeps
-remarkably well when left in the supers; if cut out, the combs should
-be folded in writing paper and sealed up, so as effectually to prevent
-free entrance of air; they should then be placed in a warm dry closet.
-
-Honey, like most vegetable products, should be fresh every year. It
-may easily be kept from one season to another; but when kept beyond
-that time, unless very carefully stored in a warm temperature, it will
-crystallize in the comb, and it is liable to ferment when in jars
-separated from the comb.
-
-
-GENERAL REMARKS.
-
-Every bee-keeper should be a book-keeper; that is, so far as to have a
-permanent record of the events of the apiary and the fortunes of his
-bees. A book similar to a tradesman's journal would be very suitable
-for the purpose. In it he should note down the date of the first swarm
-of the season especially, and those of the other swarms also; and in
-autumn, the quantity of honey taken from each hive should be entered,
-with remarks on the probable size of the various stocks. These
-particulars will not only be interesting for the bee-keeper to turn to
-in winter, but will be of practical service in enabling him to know the
-exact age and probable strength of each stock. The bee-book may also be
-contrived to show the total amount of honey that the bees have produced
-for their owner, and the net money profit of the apiary. A simple and
-clear account Like this--provided, by the bye, that it does show a
-satisfactory balance--will be very useful for inducing cottagers and
-farm labourers to start bee-keeping. Nothing like ocular demonstration
-for this class. The "humane" apiarian will reason with them in vain
-until he shows them a monster "skep" of honey, and mentions the price
-that it will fetch in the market. When convinced that the depriving
-system will pay, the cottager will gladly adopt it.
-
-A writer in the _Quarterly Review_ gives the following good
-advice:--"Don't bore the cottager with long lectures; don't heap upon
-him many little books; but give him a hive of the best construction,
-show him the management, and then _buy his honey;_ _buy_ all he brings,
-even though you should have to give the surplus to some gardenless
-widow. But only buy such as comes from an improved hive--and you cannot
-easily be deceived in this,--one which preserves the bees and betters
-the honey. Then, _when you pay him_, you may read to him, if you will,
-the wise rules of old Butler," _exempli gratia_:--
-
- "If thou wilt have the favour of thy bees that they sting thee not,
- thou must not be unchaste or uncleanly; thou must not come among
- them with a stinking breath, caused either through eating of leeks,
- onions, or garlic, or by any other means, the noisomeness whereof
- is corrected by a cup of beer; thou must not be given to surfeiting
- or drunkenness; thou must not come puffing or blowing unto them,
- neither hastily stir among them, nor violently defend thyself when
- they seem to threaten thee; but, softly moving by, thy hand before
- thy face, gently put them by; and, lastly, thou must be no stranger
- to them. In a word, (or rather, in five words,) be chaste, sweet,
- sober, quiet, familiar; so they will love thee and know thee from
- all others."
-
-Allusion having been made to the profit that may be gained by the
-judicious management of bees, we will illustrate that point by relating
-an anecdote of a certain French _curé_.[9] It is one which may be
-suggestive to some of the rural clergy in this country, who might
-almost as easily keep an apiary as they do a garden or an orchard.
-
-[Footnote 9: This story, in a disguised form, or--as the writer would
-say--an improved form, was quoted in the Cornhill Magazine some time
-ago. In transforming the bee-keeping cure into an English clergyman the
-effect was cleverly]
-
-A good French bishop, in paying his annual visit to his clergy, was
-very much afflicted by the representations they made to him of their
-extreme poverty, which indeed the appearance of their houses and
-families corroborated. Deploring the sad state of things which had
-reduced them to such a condition, he arrived at the house of a curate
-who, living amongst a poorer set of parishioners than any he had yet
-visited, would, he feared, be in a still more woful plight than the
-rest. Contrary, however, to his expectations, he found the appearance
-of this remote parsonage to be superior to those he had already
-visited. Everything about the house wore the aspect of comfort and
-plenty. The good bishop was amazed. "How is this, my friend," said he,
-"you are the first pastor I have met with having a cheerful face and a
-plentiful board! Have you any income independent of your cure?" "Yes,
-Sire," said the pastor, "I have: my family would starve on the pittance
-I receive from the poor people that I instruct. If you will walk into
-the garden, I will show you the stock that yields me such excellent
-interest." On going into the garden, he showed the bishop a long range
-of bee-hives. "There," said he, "is the bank from which I draw an
-annual dividend, and it is one that never stops payment." His harvest
-of honey enabled him almost to dispense with the use of sugar, leaving
-him a considerable quantity of it for disposal in the market; of the
-coarser portions he made a tolerable substitute for wine, and the sale
-of his wax nearly paid his shoemaker's bill. Ever afterwards, when any
-of the clergy complained to the bishop of poverty, he would say to
-them "Keep bees! keep bees!" In this succinct advice, extending it to
-laity as well as clergy in rural districts, we heartily join, believing
-that in this country a ten times greater number of hives might be
-successfully kept than are now established. In a very practical sense,
-the oft repeated lines of Gray are strictly true:--
-
- "Full many a flower is born to blush unseen,
- And waste its fragrance on the desert air."
-
-enhanced, especially as to the dismay of the decorous English
-prelate in hearing that his poor brother in the Church had turned
-"manufacturer;" but then the _vraisemblance_ of the story, as we have
-it, was destroyed. An apiary in the garden of every village clergyman
-would afford the means of economising this unclaimed bounty of
-Providence.
-
-Bees may be very inexpensively and profitably kept in the Cottager's
-hive (see page 34), which will be found a very productive one. It is
-true that it has not the appliances of windows and bell glasses; for
-the cottager is not supposed so much to care for his hives as a source
-of amusement; his object in bee-keeping is simply the profit it may
-bring. For those of our readers who wish to have united the facility
-of observing the bees with that of the plentiful production of honey,
-we would especially recommend the "Improved Cottage" hive, described
-at page 28. If inclined to go to a little further expense, the hives
-numbered 1, 2, 3, and 7, all afford constant opportunity for inspection
-of the bees, and allow of their working freely in the most natural
-manner.
-
-There are few hobbies which cost so little outlay as the keeping of
-bees. Once the "plant" of hives is purchased, there is little, if any,
-additional expense, and always a probability of a fair return. If
-honey be obtainable, the bees will find it; they work for nothing, and
-provide themselves with sustenance, requiring only a very little labour
-from their keepers, and that labour is of a pleasing and instructive
-kind.
-
-To the advanced and skilful apiarian we would especially commend the
-use of the Bar-and-frame hives. With these, as we have attempted to
-show, the bee-keeper has a full command over his hives and bees.
-Many mistakes, it is true, have been made by uninitiated bee-keepers
-in using the more elaborate hives. Being struck with the remarkable
-facilities afforded by these superior hives for the extraction of
-any one comb, and, perhaps, fascinated with their easy sway over so
-highly organized a community, these new-fangled bee-keepers have
-acquired a habit of perpetually and incautiously meddling with the
-bees. The inevitable results in such cases are distress to the bees,
-impoverishment of the stocks, and loss and vexation to the over zealous
-apiarian. All these things may be avoided, if it be remembered that
-there are first steps in bee-keeping, as well as in croquet, chemistry,
-or cricket. In bee-keeping, as in floriculture it is a great point to
-know when to "let well alone." There is no florist, however anxious
-for a prize, who would be continually pulling up his plants to see
-how their roots were growing. Doubtless, the full control which the
-bars and frames afford over the inmost recesses of the hives, is a
-great temptation to the bee-keeper; but, if he yields too readily to
-it, he will imperil his chance of profit, and deprive himself of that
-continuous source of interest, which a judicious apiarian always enjoys.
-
-Many persons who are well informed on most subjects, are
-extraordinarily ignorant of the natural history of bees, and the
-economy of the bee-hive. Perhaps we might venture to suggest that,
-more pains should be taken at schools or by parents to inform young
-persons on this, in connection with kindred subjects. As an amusing
-illustration of the ignorance referred to, we transcribe an order we
-received a short time since from a seminary in the north of England.
-The young gentleman thus writes:--"Master ---- presents his compliments
-to Messrs. Neighbour, and begs they will send him a swarm of bees; he
-encloses _six postage stamps_, and hopes they will send him a _good_
-swarm." This embryo naturalist was evidently of a mercantile turn,
-and had a mind to buy in the cheapest market, for in a postscript he
-adds:--"Please let it be fourpence, if you can!" We need scarcely say
-that in reply we endeavoured to enlighten our juvenile correspondent as
-to what constituted a swarm of bees, and returned the stamps, with our
-thanks.
-
-The culture of bees would be greatly promoted, if a knowledge of it
-were considered necessary as one of the regular qualifications of a
-gardener. So little time is needed to gain the skill requisite for
-the tendance of an apiary, that it seems only reasonable to expect
-it of a well taught gardener, and he should feel a pleasure in the
-circumstance of its forming a part of his duties. In Germany, where a
-country gentleman's table is kept constantly supplied with fresh honey,
-the gardeners are expected to understand the management of hives; and
-in Bavaria, modern bee culture is taught in the colleges to all the
-horticultural students. Travellers in Switzerland will call to mind the
-almost invariable practice of placing new honey on the breakfast tables
-at hotels in that country.
-
-Some writers on bee-culture attach much importance to the particular
-position in which an apiary stands, and the aspect towards which it
-faces. A southern, or rather a south-eastern aspect is the one which we
-have already recommended. Our reason for this preference is, that we
-deem it very important for the bees to have the first of the morning
-sun. Bees are early risers, and should have every inducement given
-them for the maintenance of so excellent a practice. A few years
-since, many strong opinions were expressed in favour of a northern
-aspect for hives. The chief reason given for those opinions, though
-very plausible, appears to us to be a very partial and inadequate one.
-It was said that, when the hives face the south, the bees may, like
-the incautious swallow in the fable, be tempted to fly abroad in the
-transient winter sunshine, and then perish in the freezing atmosphere
-when a passing cloud intervenes. But it is a very easy matter, if
-considered needful, to screen the entrance by fixing up matting so
-as to intercept the rays of the sun. At our own apiary we make no
-alteration in winter, under the belief that the bees will take care of
-themselves, and they seldom venture out when the weather is unsuitable.
-
-With hives exposed in the open garden, it is a good practice to wind
-hay-bands round them in frosty weather, as such a protection enables
-the bees to resist the cold.
-
-When a thaw occurs, everything, both in and out of doors, has a great
-deal of dampness about it. The combs of a hive are not exempt from
-this, so that it is advisable to have slight upward ventilation in
-winter. Holes the size of a pin's head allow of the escape of a good
-deal of bad air, which is generated by the exhalations of the bees, as
-well as by the dampness before referred to. These holes being small,
-do not create sufficient draft through the hives to be pernicious; if
-closed up by propolis, are readily reopened with a pin. With wooden
-hives in winter, a bell glass is often found to be useful; it should be
-placed over the hole in the crown-board, with a zinc trough to receive
-the condensed moisture.
-
-In summer bees do much towards ventilating their own stock-hives. The
-observant apiarian will not fail to remark how, on a warm day, several
-of the little creatures will stand at the entrance with their abdomens
-slightly raised, and their twinkling wings in rapid motion, producing a
-current of air inwards; while another set are engaged in like manner,
-driving the bad air out, so that a supply of pure oxygen is conveyed to
-the crowded inmates. In this fanning operation their wings vibrate with
-such rapidity, that their shape is as indistinct as are the spokes of a
-wheel when revolving in rapid centrifugal motion.
-
-This important office entails great physical exertion on the part of
-the bees, and they relieve each other in detachments.
-
-Some bee-keepers find an adapting board convenient for placing
-underneath straw supers, as it facilitates their removal. These
-boards are made of mahogany half an inch thick, with a hole in the
-centre corresponding with that in the stock hive. We do not consider
-it necessary to fix cross sticks in the straw stock hives, as is
-frequently done; but if the apiarian prefers to have his hives so
-furnished, there is no serious objection to it. These observations
-refer to our Cottager's hive (page 34).
-
-There is another little matter of detail that should be named here;
-that is, the necessity of the bee-keeper always having a common hive in
-readiness near the bees, so as to be able to secure any swarm which may
-unexpectedly start.
-
-Here our pleasant task must close. We trust that all information has
-been given that is needful to enable the practical bee-keeper to begin
-business, and the scientific apiarian to commence his observations. By
-way of illustrating the two characters combined, we will conclude by
-quoting another simple idyl by the German bee-keeper, Herr Braun, whose
-winter musings we have already presented to the reader.
-
-[_From "The Journal of Horticulture."_]
-
-ON THE FIRST FLIGHT OF BEES IN SPRING.
-
-_By_ Adalbert Braun, _Translated by_ "A Devonshire
-Bee-keeper."
-
- Hark! what is so gaily humming
- In the little garden there?
- Hark! what is so briskly whizzing
- Through the still and silent air?
-
- Friend, it is our bees--the darlings--
- Now enliven'd by the Spring;
- Yes, the winter is departed.
- And once more they're on the wing.
-
- Happy he, who winter's perils
- All his stocks brings safely through;
- Thank Him, of all good the Giver--
- Faithful Watchman He, and true.
-
- Of my own are none departed.
- All as yet unhurt remain;
- Though no longer rich in honey.
- Yet is Spring returned again!
-
- Come, and let us view them nearer--
- Enter by the garden gate;--
- So--stand still, and watch their doings--
- Light your pipe, and patient wait.
-
- See how busily they traverse
- To their pasturage and back,
- That they may by toil unwearied
- Save the commonwealth from wrack.
-
- Look, O look! what loads of pollen,
- Bring they in with heedful care.
- Nurslings, fear not; for your cravings
- Here's sufficient and to spare.
-
- How they dart and how they hurtle
- Through the genial balmy air!
- To the mountains--to the meadows--
- 'Tis the scent attracts them there!
-
- There they dexterously rifle
- Nectar from each flow'r in bloom;
- Toil they for our honey harvest,
- For us fill the honey-room.
-
- Yes, our bees, our precious darlings.
- We salute you all to-day;
- For your life is our enjoyment--
- Winter's sleep has pass'd away.
-
- Grant prosperity, Heaven!
- To the new-born honey-year--
- Give thy favour--give thy blessing--
- To these objects of our care.
-
- Now let each attentive guardian
- In devoted service strive
- For the proud, the Matron-monarch--
- Sov'reign of the honey-hive.
-
- So that we may learn by watching
- Who that in the noon-tide glance,
- Or in midnight's darkest moments.
- Summons her to Hymen's dance.[10]
-
- Ev'ry bee-hive calls for patience,
- Whilst great Haller's lessons teach
- Without patience Nature's secrets
- None successfully can reach.
-
-T. W. Woodbury, _Mount Radford, Exeter_.
-
-[Footnote 10: This point cannot now be considered doubtful, but it must
-be remembered that Herr Braun's verses were written eighteen years
-ago.]
-
-In conclusion, we would remind all bee-keepers who earnestly desire
-success, and who hope to draw pecuniary profit from their pursuit,
-of the golden rule in bee-keeping:--"Keep your stocks strong." In
-exercising the assiduous attention and persevering effort, which
-that maxim enjoins, they will not only be regarded as _bee-keepers_,
-but, as Mr. Langstroth says, will acquire a right to the title of
-_bee-masters_.
-
-
-
-
-APPENDIX.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
-TESTIMONIALS OF THE PRESS.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-GREAT EXHIBITION 1851.
-
-The "Working Apiary" in the Great Exhibition of 1851, will long live
-in remembrance of the many thousand visitors who witnessed with much
-interest the matchless industry of its busy occupants.
-
-We extract the following from many notices that appeared in the public
-journals relative thereto.
-
-In noticing the hives exhibited in the Crystal Palace, I would say,
-first and foremost in my opinion stands Mr. Taylor's Eight-bar
-Hive, and Messrs. Neighbour and Son's Improved Cottage Hive,
-both exhibited by Messrs. Neighbour.--_J. H. Payne, see
-Cottage Gardener, Nos. 169, 170._
-
-_From the "Illustrated London News."_
-
-Messrs. Neighbour's Apiary consists of a large glass
-case, with parts of the sides covered with perforated zinc, for
-the sake of ventilation. This apiary contains three hives; first
-Neighbour's Ventilating Box-Hive, containing from 15,000 to
-20,000 bees, which were hived on the 30th of April of the present
-year, the day before that of the opening of the Great Exhibition;
-Neighbour's Observatory Glass Hive, containing about the same
-number as the box-hive; and a two storied square box-hive, with sloping
-roof. From this latter, however, the bees decamped within a week after
-they had been hived, owing to some disturbance, or perhaps, to the
-dislike taken by the bees to their new habitation. The Ventilating
-Box-Hive is, in shape, square, having windows and shutters. The
-entrance is at the back, enabling the bees to go to Kensington Gardens,
-or other resorts, when they please. Above the wooden box is placed
-a bell glass, into which the bees ascend to work through circular
-opening in, the top of the square box. In the top of the bell-glass is
-an aperture through which is inserted a tubular trunk of perforated
-zinc, to take off the moisture from within. The Observatory Hive is of
-glass, with a superior crystal compartment, an opening being formed
-between the two; the bees are at present forming a comb in this upper
-glass, which affords a very interesting sight, as generally speaking,
-the bees are in such a cluster when at work that one can scarcely view
-their mathematically formed cells. A straw cover is suspended over the
-upper compartment by a rope over a pulley, which cover is raised up by
-the attendant at pleasure. The larger or bottom compartment rests on a
-wooden floor, which has a circular groove sinking therein to receive
-the bell glass. A landing-place projecting, as usual, with sunken way,
-to enable the bees to pass in and out of their habitation, completes
-this contrivance.
-
-In addition to Mr. Neighbour's Crystal Apiary, he also
-exhibits a Cottager's Straw Hive, Taylor's Amateur Bee-Hive, a Glass
-Hive, Nutt's Patent Collateral Hive, the Ladies' Observatory
-Hive, Neighbour's Improved Cottage Hive, and Payne's
-Cottage Hive.
-
-The Cottager's Hive is simply that of the form we find in use in most
-parts of the country, where the industrious cottagers or their wives,
-by a little attention to their interesting little labourers, are
-enabled to add something to their usually scanty earnings. This kind of
-hive is usually made of straw, resting on a circular wooden board, with
-part of the board or floor projecting in front as a lauding place for
-the bees, which enter under the edge of the straw by means of a sinking
-in the floor.
-
-Taylor's Amateur's Bee-Hive consists of three small square
-boxes, one above another, with a roof over the top story; the
-ventilation being effected by perforations under the eaves; each side
-of every story has a window and shutter. The landing place is in front
-of the bottom story, and the entrance to the hive is a long slit about
-¾ inch high.
-
-The Glass Hive or Ladies' Observatory Hive, is similar to that in
-which the bees are at work in Mr. Neighbour's Apiary already
-mentioned, but on account of the number of bees at work therein, and
-the extent of comb already effected, the interior perches cannot be
-seen. These wooden perches are arranged in parallel lines, leaving a
-space next the glass all round, the whole being framed together with a
-bar at right angles, and resting on an upright support in the middle.
-
-The Improved Cottage Hive of the same exhibitor consists of a straw
-circular lower compartment, having windows and outside shutters. A
-thermometer is placed just inside one of the windows. The floor is of
-wood, with a landing place and sunken way, as already mentioned in
-some of the other hives. In the top, which is also of wood, are three
-circular perforations, each of about two inches in diameter; above
-which are placed as many bell-glasses. There is a small hole in the
-top of each of the glasses, through which a perforated tubular trunk
-is inserted, for the sake of taking off the moisture from the interior
-of the hive. Within the glass is a feeding-trough of zinc, circular
-in shape, with a floating perforated floor, on which the bees alight,
-and in the winter season regale themselves with the honey which is
-found in the various perforations, as it floats up to the level of the
-honey, contained in the small filling-trough, through which the honey,
-or beer and sugar, is poured. The glasses are covered with a straw cap,
-removable at pleasure.
-
-Messrs. Neighbour's contributions are completed with, tin
-perforated fumigators, by the use of which the bees are stupefied
-for a while, when required to be moved from one hive to another; and
-specimens of honey and honey-comb of the season 1850.
-
-_From the "Express."_
-
-Bees and Bee-Hives.--In the North-East Gallery directly under
-the Transept are arranged by Messrs. Neighbour, of Holborn,
-several descriptions of bee-hives, which it will be interesting to many
-of our readers to examine, as this branch of rural economy is claiming
-much general and deserved attention throughout the country. 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 bees, thus humanely superseding the
-barbarous and hateful system of murdering these interesting insects, to
-obtain the produce of their industry.
-
-Immediately adjoining the group of untenanted bee-hives may be observed
-living hives with the bees most industriously at work. These useful
-little creatures have been highly honoured by the Executive Committee,
-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 skill. By a simple contrivance the bees are allowed
-egress and ingress without in the least degree molesting the visitors,
-thus enabling the admirers of the works of nature to view the whole
-process of forming the cells and depositing the honey therein.
-
-Within these few days Messrs. Neighbour have added to the
-Apiary, a bee-hive constructed entirely of glass, protected by a cover
-neatly made of straw, but so contrived, that on application to the
-attendant can be removed instantly, thus illustrating more particularly
-the curious workmanship of these amusing insects.
-
-Her Majesty the Queen, and the Prince Consort, with the Royal Children,
-were some time engaged in watching with deep interest the busy scene
-before them, and putting many questions relating to the habits and
-economy of the honey bee.
-
-
-INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION 1861.
-
-_From the "Illustrated London News," August 16, 1862._
-
-One of the most interesting and instructive objects in the Exhibition,
-is a transparent hive, in which the bees may be seen at full work.
-Among the collection of bee-hives exhibited by Messrs. Neighbour
-and Son, is one of glass, stocked with a colony of Italian Alp
-bees. Here the queen bee may be seen surrounded by her subjects,
-which pay the most deferential attention to their sovereign. Through
-an aperture cut in the wall, the busy throng of bees are continually
-passing and repassing. They go out at their pleasure into the open
-court, fly over the annexe into the grounds of the Horticultural
-Society and other adjacent gardens, and return laden with sweets.
-
-_From the "Journal of Horticulture" October 21, 1862._
-
-Neighbour, G. & Sons, 149, Regent Street, and 127, Holborn,
-No. 2157, have a very handsome and complete stall, on ascending the
-steps of which we found a flourishing stock of Ligurians, apparently
-not at all ashamed of the public position which they occupied, and
-working vigorously in the full light of day. The queen, one of the
-largest and finest-coloured we have met with, was perambulating the
-combs and receiving the homage of her subjects, stopping frequently to
-deposit an egg in every empty cell. The hive itself was a "Woodbury
-Unicomb," handsomely got up in mahogany, invented as its name implies,
-by our valued correspondent. "A Devonshire Bee-keeper,"
-the construction of which will be most readily understood by an
-inspection of the engraving at page 46. Its distinctive features are,
-the adaptation of the moveable-bar system to unicomb-hives, by which
-any colony in an apiary of "Woodbury-hives" can be placed in the
-unicomb-hive in a few minutes, and the use of "outside Venetians,"
-or "sun blinds." as they are called, instead of the usual impervious
-shutters. By this contrivance light is never excluded, so that when the
-hive is open for inspection, all its inmates continue their avocation
-with their accustomed regularity, and a quiet and orderly scene is
-presented to the spectator, instead of the hubbub and confusion
-which ensues in ordinary unicomb-hives. On the left-hand side of the
-unicomb hangs a beautifully executed drawing of a Ligurian queen
-bee magnified, together with the queen worker and drone of _Apis
-Ligustica_, of the natural size. Immediately under the drawing is
-placed a square glass super containing nearly 40 lbs. of the finest
-honey-comb. On the right of the unicomb-hive is another super of the
-same description, containing nearly 30 lbs. of the purest honey.
-These supers are, undoubtedly, by far the finest in the Exhibition,
-and are the first worked in England by Ligurian bees, being from the
-apiary of "A Devonshire Bee-keeper." In addition to these the
-most striking objects, are shown Neighbour's Improved Single Box and
-Cottage Hives, Taylor's Bar-Hives, Woodbury Frame and Bar-hives, the
-new Bottle-feeder, and bee apparatus of every description. It will be
-apparent from the foregoing, that Messrs. Neighbour's stall is well
-worth inspection, although the various novelties it contains appear to
-have met with but scant appreciation by the Jury, who merely awarded
-to them that "honourable mention" so lavishly accorded to the far less
-deserving objects.
-
-_From the "Illustrated News of the World" September 6, 1862._
-
-One of the most interesting and instructive objects is the honey bee
-at full work in transparent hives. In the International Exhibition,
-Class 9, Eastern Annexe, Messrs. Neighbour and Son, of Holborn
-and Regent-street, exhibit, amongst a collection of the most approved
-bee-hives and apparatus, a glass hive, stocked with a colony of Italian
-Alp bees; the hive is so constructed as to admit of easily seeing the
-queen, surrounded by the working bees. Contrary to the long established
-notion that the bees work only in the dark this hive is completely
-open to broad daylight. The bees do not manifest the least dislike to
-the exposure, and they are not discomfited when light is occasionally
-admitted for inspecting them. 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 case. The
-queen may be seen depositing the eggs in the cells; in this manner she
-goes on multiplying the species, the working bees surrounding her, and
-paying the most deferential attention, with their heads always towards
-her. Not the least interesting part is to watch the entrance; facility
-is afforded for doing so, the sunken way communicating with the hive
-being covered with a flat piece of glass; the busy throng, pass and
-repass through the aperture cut in the wall, so that the bees go out
-at their pleasure into the open court, fly over the Annexe into the
-Horticultural and other adjacent gardens, and return laden with crystal
-sweets gathered from the flowers. The novelty of being able to inspect
-living bees, and those of a new variety, as easily as goods in a shop
-window, will well repay the trouble of finding Messrs. Neighbour's
-stand. These gentlemen will no doubt cheerfully give any information
-that may be required.
-
-_From the "Gardener's Weekly Magazine" September 1, 1862. Conducted by
-Shirley Hibberd, Esq., F.R.H.S._
-
-Neighbour and Son, 149, Regent Street, London, (2157).--This
-is the most important of the exhibitions in this department. The "Bees
-at work" are in hives open to the inspection of visitors, the bees
-passing out through tubes to the open air, and not being visible within
-the building except through the glass of the hives. The collection of
-hives of all kinds is complete and interesting, and we subjoin a figure
-of the stand (see page 100) to show how bees as well as hives may be
-exhibited conveniently. Amongst the various contrivances exhibited by
-Messrs. Neighbour, Nutt's Collateral Hive has an important
-place, and though very fancifully got up, and therefore very attractive
-to amateur bee-keepers, we must make the same objection to it as we
-have above to other forms of the same from different makers. The
-Single-box Hive, the Taylor's Shallow Eight-bar Hive, are the best
-bee-boxes in this collection, and every way admirable. Here are no
-fancy ventilators which the bees will close up, nor provoking side
-boxes which they will hesitate to enter, and from which it will be hard
-to dislodge them in order to get them to winter in the "pavilion."
-Whoever begins bee-keeping with either of these will have a fair chance
-of success. The most popular of the hives is that called the "Improved
-Cottage." Its popularity no doubt is due to the compromise between wood
-and straw which it accomplishes. People cannot get rid of the idea that
-a bee-hive _must_ be made of straw, though it is a material so ill
-adapted for union of swarms, supering and other operations of advanced
-bee culture. 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 system." It consists of stock hive, small
-super-hive, and straw cover, and is on the principle of Payne's, which
-has been most successful among country people who have got so far as
-to prefer keeping, to killing their bees. The "Woodbury Bar and Frame
-Hive" is a novel construction, combining all the best features of the
-best bar boxes, and adding some new ones of great value and importance.
-We recommend every bee-keeper to become possessed of this admirable
-contrivance, with which Mr. Woodbury has accomplished wonderful things
-in the multiplication of the new race of Ligurian bees. In general form
-and proportions it resembles Taylor's and Tegetmeier's boxes, but in
-the arrangement of the bars it is unique. The stock box is furnished
-with ten moveable bars and frames, after the German plan. Each bar has
-a projection running along the under side; this ridge is chosen by the
-bees for the foundation of combs, rendering guide combs unnecessary.
-The supers have glass sides and eight bars, so that the operator need
-never be in doubt when to add another box above or take away the
-harvest.
-
-The "Unicomb," or one-comb observatory-hive, is intended solely for
-purposes of observation, and though furnished with doors, to keep
-up a uniform degree of heat, Messrs. Neighbour have found in their
-experience at the Regent's Park Gardens and elsewhere, that the bees
-manifest no dislike to a continual exposure to light. As this elegant
-contrivance can be placed in the window of a drawing-room, it is
-adapted to the amusement and instruction of the family circle, as
-well as to the more serious objects of the etomologist and scientific
-apiarian. All that is necessary is to connect the outlet with the open
-air by means of a length of tubing or wooden tunnel, and the bees pass
-in and out without obtaining access to the room, and all the mysteries
-of the hive are open to daily observation. There are numerous other
-hives, bee-feeders, bee armour, &c., &c., which we have not space to
-notice, but which we advise our apiarian friends to inspect, as the
-collection of Messrs. Neighbour illustrates fully every department of
-this interesting subject.
-
-
-BATH AND WEST OF ENGLAND AGRICULTURAL SHOW AT EXETER, IN JUNE, 1863.
-
-_From the "Journal of Horticulture," June 23, 1863._
-
-A novel feature in the Exhibition of the Bath and West of England
-Agricultural Society which took place at Exeter last week, was the
-stall of Messrs. Neighbour & Sons, in which were exhibited
-bees at work in glass hives, and apiarian appliances of every
-description. There were two Ligurian stocks of bees at full work,
-one in a full sized Woodbury Unicomb Hive, having been brought from
-London for the occasion, and the other in a smaller hive of the
-same description being from the neighbouring apiary of our valued
-correspondent, "A Devonshire Bee-Keeper." Amongst the hives
-exhibited, the Woodbury Frame Hive in straw appeared both novel
-and good, whilst amongst the apparatus, artificial combs and the
-stereotyped plates for making them, seemed to us the most worthy of
-attention.
-
-There was a remarkably curious specimen of artificial combs or
-partition wall partially fabricated into complete comb by the bees,
-which struck us as being well worth examination, showing, as it did,
-the various stages by which this transformation is effected, and being
-calculated to throw light on the problem as to the mode in which
-bees construct their combs. It is almost unnecessary to state, that
-this unique and instructive stall was crowded throughout the week,
-and we hope its financial results were such as will lead Messrs.
-Neighbour to continue their attendance at the Society's
-meetings.
-
-_From the "Western Times" Exeter, June 12, 1863._
-
-For the Little Busy Bee.--Next to the poultry tents, and set
-back against the yard fencing, is the exhibition of Mr. George
-Neighbour & Sons, 127, High Holborn, and 149, Regent Street,
-London, inventors and manufacturers of improved bee-hives for taking
-honey without the destruction of the bees. The savage knows where
-to find the nest of the wild bee, and how to get at his honey; but
-all the improvement upon the covetousness of the savage made by the
-long after ages of the world to modern times, was to find means of
-luring the pattern of industry to a convenient atelier where he might
-be more easily, first murdered and then robbed. Their habits early
-attracted the attention of some of the best observers of ancient as
-well as modern times; Cicero and Pliny tell of the philosopher Hyliscus
-quitting human society and retiring to the desert to contemplate
-their peaceful industry. The ancient poet in his _Sic vos non vobis_
-plaintively sings over bee and beast, living, or rather dying, not
-for themselves, but the lord of creation, yet was it left to modern
-times--very modern times--to join the sentiment of humanity to the
-rapacity of the barbarian. Mr. 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 bee; and also, subsidiarily of promoting its
-comfort during its busy and useful life. We are not allowed to forget
-here, that we have residing in our city one of the first apiarians in
-the kingdom--Mr. Thomas Woodbury, of Mount Radford. If the bee
-philosophy be his hobby, 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 object. One proof
-of his genius in this his favourite department of action, is seen among
-this collection of Mr. Neighbour's in the "Woodbury Unicomb
-Hive." It might be when closed up, for ought that appears, a neat case
-of books; but on opening two doors of the Venetian blind pattern, back
-and front, we see between the glass walls, the insect city exposed to
-view with all the population in action. There it may be seen
-
- How skilfully she builds her cell;
- How neat she spreads her wax;
- And labours hard to store it well
- With the sweet food she makes.
-
-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 work. "Neighbour's Unicomb Observatory
-Hive" is a great novelty, being constructed with glass sides, the
-hidden mysteries of the hive being exposed to the full light of day.
-"Huber's Book or Leaf Hive" is constructed to facilitate the
-object of the scientific apiarian. But the class of hives which will
-most interest those desirous of promoting bee-keeping among the many
-will be those for the cottage. There can be no doubt that many a poor
-cottager in the country, if he could be made to see the advantage it
-would be to him, and were taught the most economical and successful way
-of managing this species of "live stock," would add thereby something
-considerable to his small earnings in the course of a summer. Members
-of Cottage Garden Societies have turned their attention to it very
-generally; but to get the thing well afloat, requires in every district
-the devotion of some earnest enthusiast who will take up the apostolic
-rule of action "This one thing I do." There is the No. 5, "Improved
-Cottage Hive," in which three bell glasses are employed, enabling
-you to take a glass of the purest honey from the hive in the most
-vigorous period of the season. Then there are other hives of simpler
-construction and less expensive, but all illustrative of the sentiment
-of humanity which seeks to preserve from wanton destruction those
-useful and interesting auxiliaries to our luxury and comfort. This
-comparatively unimportant stand, in point of size, cannot but attract
-the attention of a large number of visitors, especially of the ladies
-and the clergy, who are desirous of promoting the cultivation of the
-bee among the poor. To heighten the interest for the curious, in one
-of Mr. Woodbury's hives the bees are all alive and at it, and
-for those who are disposed to go further into the subject, information
-is available touching this fashionable, profitable, and domesticated
-member of the Apiarian family, the Ligurian and Italian Alp-bee. Our
-old dark-coated delver is threatened with supercession, just as the
-black rat was driven off by the Norwegian invader, now in possession,
-and as the old races of cattle are being metamorphosed into the sleek,
-shapely, beef-bearing, small-boned animals of the present time.
-
-_From the "Devon Weekly Times" June 8, 1863._
-
-Bees.--Messrs. Neighbour & Sons, of London, are
-exhibitors of two Woodbury Unicomb Hives, showing the royal
-and common bees in full work. These hives are very ingeniously
-constructed, and were invented by Mr. T. Woodbury, of Mount
-Radford. Among other apiarian attractions, we may mention the improved
-Cottage and Cottager's Hives, which are well worthy the notice of those
-for whom they are designed, and the Ladies' Observatory Hive. The
-Messrs. Neighbour also exhibit Ligurian bees.
-
-_From "Woolmer's Exeter Gazette" June 12, 1863._
-
-Improved Bee-Hives.--At a stand near the poultry tents, are
-exhibited Neighbour's Improved Bee-hives for the taking of
-honey without the destruction of bees. The hives are stocked with the
-famous Ligurian bee. The Unicomb Observatory Hive is constructed with
-glass sides, so that the whole of the movements of the Apiarian colony
-are visible, including the proceedings of the queen and her court. This
-and some of the other descriptions of hives manufactured by Messrs.
-Neighbour are invented by T. W. Woodbury, Esq. They
-are furnished with moveable bars, after the German fashion. Each bar
-has a projection along the underside; this ridge being waxed, induces
-the bees to build parallel combs--thus obviating the necessity for a
-guide comb. This description of hive is best suited for the Ligurian or
-Italian Alp-bee. Stocks of this species, now so much in repute, may be
-obtained of Messrs. Neighbour 149, Regent Street, London.
-
-
-ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW, NEWCASTLE, 1864.
-
-_From the "Northern Daily Express" July 22,--(Published at Newcastle.)_
-
-A Model Factory.--Stand 191--G. Neighbour & Sons.
-Regent Street, and High Holborn, London. We have heard of model farms
-and model lodging houses for the working classes, but it was reserved
-for the Royal Agricultural Society's Meeting in 1864 to introduce
-to our notice a model factory, where we may see representatives
-of the working classes busily engaged in their daily avocations.
-The stand which we have quoted above, may afford fruitful study to
-such philanthropists as the Earl of Shaftesbury, who make it their
-benevolent aim to elevate the masses, and the lesson here given from
-actual life will not be lost upon working men themselves. There are
-several striking features worthy of notice in the "model factory."
-We can clearly perceive that it has been established on a principle
-which is essential to the success of any great concern--namely: the
-principle of a good understanding amongst the operatives themselves,
-and between them and the head of the establishment. What strikes us
-in this model factory is the unity of action which reigns throughout.
-There is no jostling of rival interests, and no misunderstandings, or
-cross purposes. The operatives in this establishment are so numerous
-that we question if any one has as yet been able to count their number,
-and yet all seem to be working in perfect harmony, their joint labour
-continually leading to one beautiful and sublime result. Another
-feature specially noticeable in the establishment, in question is the
-principle of subordination. Singular to say, that while the operatives
-are males[11] the foreman of this model factory is a female; but that
-circumstance need not shock the sensibilities of our fair friends
-any more than it ought to offend the prejudices of the sterner sex,
-inasmuch as the mighty empire of Great Britain is ruled by the gentle
-hand of a female; and moreover, in the one case as in the other, the
-presiding genius, amids all her official cares and duties, takes care
-to preserve the modesty of her sex. She never in the slightest degree
-obtrudes herself needlessly on public observation, and probably on
-that very account the respect shown to her by her subjects is the more
-profound and devoted. There is, however, one particular in which we
-would take leave to demur to the idea of this factory being in every
-respect regarded as a "model." We have not been able to discover that
-there is any particular period of the day in which the operatives are
-allowed to take refreshments. We, in England, have been accustomed to
-regard the dinner hour somewhat in the light of a sacred institution.
-And if the council of the Royal Agricultural Society mean to set this
-up as a model institution, we are of opinion that some explanation on
-this point is desirable. Indeed we have not been able to discover that
-the operatives in this establishment take any refreshment whatever.
-If they do, it must be "on the sly," vulgarly speaking. There is one
-peculiarity, however, which must tend to popularize this institution,
-and which has served to make it one of the most attractive objects on
-the show ground. 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 extent, and
-perhaps wisely so. As you approach the door you see an intimation in
-legible characters, "No admission except on business." This may be
-very proper, but it is rather tantalising. In the model factory which
-we are now describing all the operations are open to inspection. Every
-action is patent to the eye of the spectator. This has been effected
-by a skilful contrivance, and it is this contrivance in fact, which
-has entitled the inventor to obtain a place in the show ground for his
-model factory, which he describes by the somewhat ambiguous term of "a
-new implement." But our readers may wish to learn what is the staple
-manufacture of this wonderful workshop. We reply--"honey." The factory
-we speak of is nothing more nor less than a bee-hive; or, to quote from
-the catalogue, "An Unicomb Observatory Bee-hive," with living Italian
-Alpine bees at full work; it was invented by T. W. Woodbury,
-of Exeter; and is improved and manufactured by the exhibitors. As
-implied by its name this hive has one comb, so that both sides are
-fully exposed to the light of day, thus allowing of an easy inspection
-of the queen-bee, surrounded by her retinue.
-
-[Footnote 11: The reporter was in error as to the sex of the workers.]
-
-
-
-
-INDEX.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-
- PAGE.
- A.
-
- Adapting board 76, 115, 116
- Age of bees 6
- Anger of bees 76, 89
- Apiary, best time to set up 11
- " Exterior and interior of 58
- Artificial Swarming 79
- Right time for 80, 81
- Directions for performing the operation of 80, 81
- Artificial Swarms, how should be placed 83
- Aspect 25, 114, 115
- Australia, sending bees to 100, 101
-
- B.
-
- Baby bee, cradle of 9
- " emerging from the cell 9
- Bath and West of England Journal 97, 99
- " " " Agricultural Shows 47, 48, 124, 125, 126
- Bee dress 68, 74
- " Necessity for 69, 77
- Bees, reduced size of 79
- " Human breath obnoxious to 89
- " Artificial scent objectionable 89
-
- Bee Hives (Modern).
-
- Neighbour's Cottager's:--
- Description of 34
- Putting on super 35, 36
- Time for removal of 36
- Depositing eggs in super 36
- Neighbour's Improved Cottage (No. 5):--
- Description of 28
- Directions for 29
- Weight 27
- Neighbour's Improved Cottage (No. 6) 31
- Neighbour's Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Hive:--
- Description of 32
- Feeding 33
- Light not to be admitted at first 33
- Mode of fixing 32, 33
- " stocking 33
- Protection from cold 33
- Use of frame work 33
- Weight 32
- Neighbour's Unicomb Observatory:--
- Construction and application 44
- Mode of stocking 44
- How kept warm 46
- How exhibited at Paris 45
- Prize Medal for 45
- Neighbour's Single Box:--
- Description of and directions for 24, 25
- Nutt's Collateral:--
- Description of 17, 18
- Means of ventilation 21
- Mode of stocking 19, 20
- " taking surplus honey 21, 22
- Feeding 19
- Shed necessary 19
- The late Thomas Nutt 23
- Taylor's Improved Cottage:--
- Description of 43
- Taylor's Eight-bar Straw Hive:--
- Description of 43
- Taylor's Amateur Eight-bar 26, 29
- " " Seven-bar 27
- Woodbury Bar and Frame:--
- Description of 36
- Glass Bar and Frame 38
- Straw Bar and Frame, description of 37
- Special advantage of 37
- Origin of 37
- Directions for stocking 73, 74
- Woodbury Unicomb:--
- Construction of 46
- Inspection of queen 47
- How fixed 48
- Answering 48, 49
- Mode of stocking 48, 49
- Bees removed before Winter 4
- Huber's Book or Leaf, description of 50, 51
-
- Bee Houses.
- Advantage of 53, 54
- Description of, to contain two hives 53
- Furnished with lock and key 54
- How hives are placed in 54
- Plan for excluding insects 54
- Description of, to contain twelve hives 55
- Object of colouring alighting board 55
- Bees mistaking entrance 55, 56
- Loss of queens 56
- Bee-house to contain nine hives, why not recommended 56
- Bee-keeping, inexpensive and profitable 113
- Bee-keeping in London 102
- St. James's Place 105
- Zoological Gardens, Regent's Park 105
- St. John's Wood and suburbs of London 105
- G. Neighbour and Sons' London Apiary 104
- Seasons, 1863, 1864, favorable for 106
- Bee-keeper should be a book-keeper 111
-
- C.
-
- Cells, contracted size of 79
- Changing old stocks into new hives:--
- Not to be attempted by the inexperienced 86
- Adaptation of old hive to the depriving system 86
- Directions for transferring stocks into frame hives 87
- Classes for whom bee-keeping is suited 1
- Combs, artificial 70
- Value of 70
- Mode of applying 71, 72
- Must not be jarred 69
- Taken from bar and frame hives 75, 79
- Fixing in frames 75
- Ensuring regularity of 27
- Compound Bar and Frame 40
- Cottagers, way to convince of the humane system 111
- Cottagers' hive 34
- Cover for bar and frame hive, description of 41, 42
- Zinc 59, 60
- Ornamental zinc 59
- Straw hackle 35
- Crown board 74, 76
-
- D.
-
- Dampness in hives in winter injurious 33, 115
- Depriving System:--
- Special advantages of 10, 35
- Practiced in ancient Greece and Italy 10
- Profit to be derived from 111, 112
- Dividing hives, reason why they do not answer 82
- Dressing hives inside with sweet not needful 35
- Driving bees, directions for 84, 85
- Drones, sex of 6
- Purpose of 7
- Reason for numbers in hive 7
- General massacre of 7
- All die before winter 8
-
- E.
-
- Eggs of bees:--
- Description of 9
- In supers 36
- Entrance to hives 18, 31, 37
- Epitaph on murdered bees 11
- Evans, note on page, extract from 3, 4, 5, 12, 13
- Evening thoughts in January, a poem 56, 57
-
- F.
-
- Feeding 19, 25, 31, 33, 63, 64
- Feeder (Bottle) 63
- (Nutt's) 66
- (Round) 65
- (Fountain) 65
- Frame:--
- Description of 39
- Mr. "Woodbury's improvement 40
- How kept perpendicular 39, 40
- Taking out with combs 76
- Direction for handling frames 77, 78
- Placing frames in hives 78
- French Bishop visiting a Cure (anecdote) 111, 112
- Fructifying flowers, bees useful for 91
- Fumigation, directions for 66, 67, 68
- Fumigators 66, 67, 68
-
- G.
-
- General remarks 110 to 116
- Glasses, bell 60, 61, 62
- Great Exhibition of 1851, Testimonials of the press 119, 120, 121
- Guide comb 27
- " for glasses 61, 62
-
- H.
-
- Hives--see Bee-hives 106
- Large number may be kept 112
- Hive should be ready for swarm 15, 115
- Honey cutters 66
- Honey Dew 94
- Honey, directions for draining from combs 110
- Keeping honey in the comb at a warm temperature 110
- Huber (Francis), extract from Memoirs of 51
-
- I.
-
- Improved cottage hive 31
- Improved comb bar 39
- Increase of bees 9
- India-rubber gloves 74
- Impregnation of queen 3
- Insects that are injurious 83, 107
- Insects, cleansing hives from 83
- Interchange of combs for strengthening weak hives 79
- Italian honey bee 93, 94, 95
- Description of 96
- Great honey collecting powers 96, 97
- Opinions of German bee-masters 96
- Introduction into England 97
- Hermann's book on 97, 98
- Physical characteristics of 98
- Importation of queens in many instances unsuccessful 99
- Transporting stocks to Australia 100, 101
- At the International Exhibition 70, 100, 101,
- 121, 122, 123, 124
-
- J.
-
- Journal of Horticulture 99
-
- K.
-
- Keeping bell glasses warm 25
-
- L.
-
- Ligurian honey bee (see Italian bee)
- Loyalty of bees 4
-
- M.
-
- Mortar, not necessary for closing crevices 35
- Moths, how entrance is effected 109
- How to destroy eggs of 109
-
- N.
-
- Neglect of bee-keeping 1
- Neighbour's hives (see Bee-hives).
- Number of eggs in the season 3
- Nutt's hives (see Bee-hives)
-
- P.
-
- Pasturage for bees 93, 94
- Honey yielding flowers 93, 94
- Wild flowers best 94
- Pollen, food for infant bees 91
- How collected 91
- Rye meal a substitute for farina from flowers 91
- Propolis, or bees' cement 92
- How obtained 92, 93
- Application of 93
- Anecdote illustrating use of 93
- Putting on super hive or bell glasses 20, 25, 29, 36, 75
-
- Q.
-
- Queen:--
- Description of 2
- Movements of, laying eggs and marriage day 3
- Honor to when fertile 4
- Combats with her rivals 4, 5
- Dismay of bees on loss of 5
- Raised from worker embryo 5
- Longevity of 6
- Old one goes with first swarm 12
- Leaves hive only in fine weather 12
- In super hives 22, 36
- Loss of 5, 56
- View of 44, 47
- Supplying queenless hives with 5, 83
-
- R.
-
- Roller, engraved pressing:--
- Description of 69
- Application of 69, 70
- Royal Agricultural Society's Show 48, 126, 127, 128
-
- S.
-
- Spring, time to begin bee-keeping 11
- Spring, First flight of bees in, a poem 116, 117
- Sprinkling bees 77
- Stand for hives, engraving 24, 28, 36, 42
- Sticks in hives not necessary 115
- Super for bar and frame hives 41
- Bell glass (see Glasses)
- Straw 35, 36
- Straw hives:
- Advantage of 34
- Preference for 34, 37
- Swarming:--
- Usual time of year for 11
- Cause of 11
- Agitation before 12
- Provisioning for 13
- Usual time of day for 13
- Poetical description of 13
- Ringing on occasion of, needless 13
- Desirable to prevent 16
- Swarms:--
- Devices for inducing settlement of 13
- Consequences of a second flight 14
- Means of preventing ditto 14
- Two sometimes depart at same time and mingle 14
- Necessity of having hives in readiness 14
- Bee dress essential 15
- Time for removing 15
- Care to be exercised when confined 18, 24, 25, 29, 30
- First swarms most valuable 16
- Second, cause of 16
- Premonitory symptoms 16
- Royal wailing indicative of 16
- Numerical composition of 16
- Third, name of 16
- Fourth, name of 16
- Care required to prevent loss of 14, 109
-
- T.
-
- Taking honey, mode of 21, 22
- Thomson's " Seasons," extract from, on murdered bees 11
-
- V.
-
- Ventilation 17, 18, 20, 21, 115
-
- W.
-
- Wasps, how to prevent the increase of 106, 107
- Season 1864 productive of 107
- Water essential 94
- Mismanagement of, during voyage 101
- Weighing hives, importance of 88
- Salter's spring balance best 88
- How to judge of quantity without 88
- Windows, objections to 38
- Wildman 102
- Marvellous feats of 103
- Secret of success 103
- Worker bee:--
- Description of 8
- Sex of 8
- Number in hive 8
- Young ones, employment of 8
-
-
- NEIGHBOUR'S
-
- IMPROVED BEE-HIVES,
-
- FOR
-
- TAKING HONEY WITHOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF THE BEES.
-
-[Illustration]
-
-DRAWINGS AND DETAILED LISTS FORWARDED ON RECEIPT OF TWO POSTAGE STAMPS.
-
- 1. Nutt's Collateral Bee-Hive 6 15 0
- Stand for ditto, 16s.
-
- 2. Neighbour's Improved Single-box Hive 3 3 0
- Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.
-
- 3. Taylor's Shallow-box or Eight-bar Hive, complete with cover 3 10 0
- Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.
-
- 4. Taylor's Amateur Bar Hive 3 5 0
- Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.
-
- 5. Neighbour's Improved Cottage Hive 1 15 0
- Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.
-
- 6. An Improved Cottage Hive 1 8 0
-
- 7. The Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Hive. Price complete 2 5 0
-
- 8. The Cottager's Hive 0 10 6
-
- 9 & 10. Bee Feeders each 5/. and 0 4 0
-
- 11 & 12. Fumigators each 2/. and 0 2 6
-
- 13. Honey Cutters per pair 0 5 0
-
- 14. Taylor's Improved Cottage Hive 1 1 0
- With Stand, £1. 10s.
-
- 15. Fountain Bee Feeder 0 6 0
-
- 18. Taylor's Eight-bar Straw Hive, complete 2 12 0
- Stock Hive only, 15s.
-
- 19. Huber's Book or Leaf Hive 2 5 0
-
- 20. Taylor's Unicomb Observatory Hive 3 3 0
-
- 24. Taylor's Glasses 7/. 0 4 6
-
- Payne's ditto 0 3 0
-
- 25. Bell Glass 0 4 0
-
- 26. " 0 2 0
-
- 27. " 0 1 0
-
- 28. " without knob and flat top to put on the table
- inverted, price with lid 0 4 6
-
- 29. Zinc Cover each 7/6 and 0 10 6
-
- 30. Shallow Glasses (new shape) each 5/6 and 0 3 6
-
- 31. Bee Dress and Protector 5/., by post 0 6 0
-
- 37. Zinc Cover 0 16 6
-
- 38. Ornamental ditto 2 5 0
-
- 39. Bee House to contain Two Hives 3 10 0
-
- 40. " " Twelve Hives £15. and 19 10 0
-
- Woodbury Unicomb Hive
-
- 42. " Bar and Frame Hive, complete with outside
- cover and super 3 3 0
- Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.
-
- 44. Bottle Feeder 0 2 6
-
- 45. Woodbury Straw Bar and Frame Hive (Stock Hive) 1 1 0
-
- 46. Engraved Pressing Roller 0 7 6
-
- 47. Impressed Wax Sheets or Artificial Combs per dozen 0 6 0
-
- * * * * *
-
-
-Transcriber Note
-
-Minor typos corrected. The words floor-board and floorboard were both
-retained.
-
-
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-<body>
-<p style='text-align:center; font-size:1.2em; font-weight:bold'>The Project Gutenberg eBook of The Apiary; or, Bees, bee-hives, and bee culture (1865), by Alfred Neighbor</p>
-<div style='display:block; margin:1em 0'>
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and
-most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions
-whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms
-of the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online
-at <a href="https://www.gutenberg.org">www.gutenberg.org</a>. If you
-are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the
-country where you are located before using this eBook.
-</div>
-
-<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Title: The Apiary; or, Bees, bee-hives, and bee culture (1865)</p>
-<p style='display:block; margin-left:2em; text-indent:0; margin-top:0; margin-bottom:1em;'>being a familiar account of the habits of bees, and the most improved methods of management, with full directions, adapted for the cottager, farmer, or scientific apiarian</p>
-<p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em'>Author: Alfred Neighbor</p>
-<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Release Date: June 9, 2022 [eBook #68269]</p>
-<p style='display:block; text-indent:0; margin:1em 0'>Language: English</p>
- <p style='display:block; margin-top:1em; margin-bottom:0; margin-left:2em; text-indent:-2em; text-align:left'>Produced by: Tom Cosmas compiled from materials made available at The Internet Archive and placed in the Public Domain.</p>
-<div style='margin-top:2em; margin-bottom:4em'>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE APIARY; OR, BEES, BEE-HIVES, AND BEE CULTURE (1865) ***</div>
-
-
-
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="cover" style="width: 332px;">
- <img src="images/cover.png" width="332" height="550" alt="The Apiary; or, Bees, bee-hives, and bee culture (1865), by Alfred Neighbour" />
-</div>
-
-
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_i">- i -</span></p>
-
-
-
-<h1>THE APIARY<br />
-
-<span class="tdc vsmall">OR,</span><br />
-
-<span class="tdc smaller">BEES, BEE-HIVES</span><br />
-
-<span class="tdc vsmall">AND</span><br />
-
-<span class="pmb2 tdc smaller">BEE CULTURE.</span></h1>
-
-
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_iii">- iii -</span></p>
-
-<p class="nobreak caption1 pmt4">THE APIARY;<br />
-
-<span class="tdc tiny">OR,</span><br />
-
-<span class="tdc smaller">BEES, BEE-HIVES,</span><br />
-
-<span class="tdc tiny">AND</span><br />
-
-<span class="tdc smaller">BEE CULTURE:</span></p>
-</div>
-
-
-
-<p class="tdc">BEING A FAMILIAR ACCOUNT OF THE HABITS OF BEES, AND THE MOST<br />
-IMPROVED METHODS OF MANAGEMENT, WITH FULL DIRECTIONS,<br />
-ADAPTED FOR THE COTTAGER, FARMER, OR,<br />
-SCIENTIFIC APIARIAN.</p>
-
-
-
-<h2>By ALFRED NEIGHBOUR.</h2>
-
-
-
-<p style="margin: 4em 4em; text-indent: 0;">"Je connais beaucoup des personnes qu' aiment les abeilles, mais ne personnes
-aiment les mediocrement, ils les passionment."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Gelieu</span>.</p>
-
-
-
-<p class="tdc">LONDON:<br />
-
-KENT AND CO., PATERNOSTER ROW<br />
-
-GEO: NEIGHBOUR AND SONS,<br />
-
-149. REGENT STREET, AND 127, HIGH HOLBORN;<br />
-
-AND ALL, BOOKSELLERS.<br />
-
-1865.</p>
-
-
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_v">- v -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="TABLE_OF_CONTENTS">TABLE OF CONTENTS.</h2>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="bar_diamond" style="width: 106px;">
- <img src="images/bar_diamond.png" width="106" height="20" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl"><span class="smcap">Preface</span>&mdash;Introductory</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#PREFACE">1</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="caption3">SECTION I.</p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The inhabitants of the hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#inhabitants">2</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The queen</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#queen">2</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The drone</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#drone">6</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The worker bee</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#worker">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Eggs of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#eggs">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Increase of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#increase">9</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Swarming</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#swarming">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="caption3">SECTION II.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Modern Bee-Hives.</span></p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Nutt's Collateral Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Nutts_Coll_Hive">17</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Single Box Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Neighbors_Imp_Hive">24</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Amateur Shallow Box or Eight-bar Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Taylors_Am_Shallow">26</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Amateur Seven-bar Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Taylors_Am_Bar_Hive">27</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Cottage</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Neighbors_Im_Cott_Hive">28</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Improved Cottage</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Imp_Cott_Hive">31</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Bee-hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Ladies_Obs_Hive">32</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cottagers' Hive for taking honey in straw
- caps without the destruction of the bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Cottagers_Hive">34</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury Bar and Frame Hives:&mdash;</td>
- <td></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wood</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Bar_Frame_Hive">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Straw</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Straw_Hive">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Glass</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Glass_Hive">38</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Frame</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Frame">39</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Improved Comb Bar</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Comb_Bar">39</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Compound Bar and Frame</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Comp_Bar_frame">40</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cover</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Hive_Cover">41</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Improved Cottage Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Taylors_Imp_Hive">43</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Eight Bar Straw</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Eight_Bar_Hive">43</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Unicomb Observatory Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Neighbors_Uni_Hive">44</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Woodbury_Uni_Hive">46</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Huber's Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#HUBERS_HIVE">50</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="caption3">SECTION III.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Exterior Arrangements and Apparatus.</span></p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee House to contain two hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BEE-HOUSE_TWO_HIVES">53</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl"> " " twelve hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BEE-HOUSE_TWELVE_HIVES">55</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl"> " " nine hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BEE-HOUSE_NINE_HIVES">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Evening thoughts in January</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#EVENING_THOUGHTS_IN_JANUARY">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Exterior and interior of an Apiary</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_58">58</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Zinc Cover</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ZINC_COVER">59</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Ornamental Zinc Cover</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ORN_ZINC_COVER">59</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cover of Zinc</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#COVER_OF_ZINC">60</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bell Glasses</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BELL_GLASSES">60</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Glass</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#TAYLORS_GLASS">60</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Payne's Glass</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#PAYNES_GLASS">61</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bell Glass with lid</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BELL_GLASS_W_LID">61</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Guide Comb for Glasses</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#GUIDE_COMB_FOR_GLASSES">61</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The New Bottle Feeder</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#NEW_BOTTLE_FEEDER">63</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Round Bee Feeder</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ROUND_BEE_FEEDER">65</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Zinc Fountain Bee Feeder</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ZINC_FOUNT_FEEDER">65</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Nutt's Drawer Feeder</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#NUTTS_DRAWER_FEEDER">66</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Honey Cutters (13)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#HONEY_CUTTERS">66</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Fumigator (11)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#FUMIGATOR11">66</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Fumigator (12)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#FUMIGATOR12">68</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee Dress or Protector</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BEE_DRESS">68</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Engraved Pressing Roller, for the guidance
- of bees in the construction of honey-comb
- on the bars</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ENGRAVED_PRESSING_ROLLER">69</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Impressed Wax Sheets for artificial comb</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#IMPRESSED_WAX_SHEETS">70</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_vi">- vi -</span></p>
-
-<p class="caption3">SECTION IV.</p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Manipulation and uses of Bar and Frame Hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#IV_MANIPULATION_AND_USES_OF_BAR_AND_FRAME_HIVES">73</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Putting on Super Hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Putting_ON">75</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taking out Frames with Combs</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Taking_Out">76</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Artificial Swarming</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#art_swarming">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Driving</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#DRIVING">84</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Changing Old Stock to new Hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#CHANGING_OLD_STOCKS">86</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Weighing Hives, &amp;c.</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#WEIGHING_HIVES">88</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="caption3">SECTION V.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Miscellaneous Information.</span></p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Stings: their Prevention and Cure</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#STINGS">88</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Pollen or Food for Infant Bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#POLLEN">91</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Propolis or Bees' Cement</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#PROPOLIS">92</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Pasturage for Bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#PASTURAGE">93</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">The Ligurian or Italian Alp Bee</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#LIGURIAN">95</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Living Bees at the International Exhibition of
- 1862,<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;sending Bees to Australia, &amp;c.</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#LIVING_BEES">100</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee-keeping in London</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#BEE_KEEPING">102</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Wasps and Moths</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#WASP_MOTHS">106</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Draining Honey from the Combs</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#DRAINING">110</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">General Remarks</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#GEN_REMARKS">110</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">On the First Flight of Bees in Spring</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#ON_THE_FIRST">116</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p class="caption3">APPENDIX.&mdash;<span class="smcap">Testimonials of the Press.</span></p>
-
-<table class="tblcont" style="width: 35em; margin: 0 auto;" summary="toc">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Great Exhibition of 1801:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From the "Cottage Gardener"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_119">119</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Illustrated London News"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_119">119</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Express"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">International Exhibition of 1802:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From the "Illustrated London News"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Journal of Horticulture"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Illustrated News of the World"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_122">122</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Gardener's Weekly Magazine"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_123">123</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Bath and West of England Agricultural Show at Exeter<br />&nbsp;&nbsp;in June, 1863:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From the "Journal of Horticulture"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_124">124</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Western Times"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_124">124</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Devon Weekly Times"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_126">126</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"Exeter Gazette"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_126">126</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Royal Agricultural Show, Newcastle, 1804:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;From the "Northern Daily Express"</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_126">126</a></td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="line_squiggle" style="width: 230px;">
- <img src="images/line_squiggle.png" width="230" height="16" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<p class="caption3">ERRATA.</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>At second line from bottom of <a href="#Page_23">page 23</a>, for "cottage" read
-"cottager."</p>
-
-<p>At <a href="#Page_30">page 30</a>, fifth line from bottom, for "last page" read "page 25."</p>
-
-<p>At <a href="#Page_44">page 44</a>, sixteenth line, for "<i>this</i> plates of glass" read
-"<i>thin</i> plates of glass."</p>
-
-<p>At <a href="#Page_53">page 53</a>, fourteenth line, read "bee hive" for "bee house."</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class="tdc">[Transcriber Note: Above ERRATA corrections were applied.]</p>
-
-<p class="caption3">EXPLANATIONS OMITTED.</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>At <a href="#Page_62">page 62</a>, "Hold the glass horizontally over the flame of the
-candle."</p>
-
-<p>At <a href="#Page_80">page 80</a>, "An empty hive should be placed on the stand when the
-living hive is removed, for the purpose of amusing returning
-bees. If the hive is kept in a bee-house, the entrance should be
-shut down unto the hive is restored, when the clustered bees may
-be at once admitted."</p>
-</div>
-
-<p class="tdc">[Transcriber Note: Above EXPLANATIONS were placed.]</p>
-
-
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_vii">- vii -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="PREFACE">PREFACE.</h2>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="bar_diamond2" style="width: 68px;">
- <img src="images/bar_diamond2.png" width="68" height="17" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-
-<p class="p0"><span class="smcap">Our</span> apology for preparing a bee book is a very simple one.
-We are so frequently applied to for advice on matters connected
-with bees and bee-hives, that it seemed likely to prove a
-great advantage, alike to our correspondents and ourselves, if we
-could point to a "handy-book" of our own, which should contain
-full and detailed replies sufficient to meet all ordinary enquiries.
-Most of the apiarian manuals possess some special excellence or
-other, and we have no wish to disparage any of them. Yet in all,
-we have found a want of explanations relating to several of the more
-recent improvements.</p>
-
-<p>It has, more especially, been our aim to give explicit and detailed
-directions on most subjects connected with the hiving and removing
-of bees; and also, to show how, by judicious application of the
-"depriving" system, the productive powers of the bees may be
-enormously increased.</p>
-
-<p>We need say little here as to the interest that attaches to the
-apiary as a source of perennial pleasure for the amateur naturalist.
-Many of the hives and methods of management are described
-with a direct reference to this class of bee-keepers; so that,
-besides plain and simple directions suitable for cottagers with
-their ordinary hives, this work will be found to include instructions
-useful for the scientific apiarian, or, at least, valuable, for those who
-desire to gain a much wider acquaintance with the secrets of bee-keeping
-than is now usually possessed. We would lay stress on
-the term "acquaintance," for there is nothing in the management
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_viii">- viii -</span>
-of the various bar-and-frame hives which is at all difficult when
-frequent practice has rendered the bee-keeper familiar with them.
-Such explicit directions are herein given as to how the right
-operations may be performed at the right times, that a novice may
-at once commence to use the modern hives. The word "new-fangled"
-has done good service for the indolent and prejudiced;
-but we trust that our readers will be of a very different class. Let
-them give a fair trial to the modern appliances for the humane and
-depriving system of bee-keeping, and they will find offered to them
-an entirely new field of interest and observation. At present, our
-continental neighbours far surpass us as bee-masters; but we trust
-that the season of 1865, if the summer be fine, will prove a turning
-point in the course of. English bee-keeping. 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 before.</p>
-
-<p>Our task would have lost half its interest, did we not hope that
-it would result in something beyond the encouragement of a refined
-and interesting amusement for the leisurely classes. The social importance
-of bee keeping as a source of pecuniary profit for small farmers
-and agricultural labourers, has never been appreciated as it deserves.
-Yet these persons will not, of themselves, lay aside the bungling and
-wasteful plan of destroying the bees, or learn without being taught
-the only proper method, that of deprivation. Their educated neighbours
-when once interested in bee-keeping, will be the persons to introduce
-the more profitable system of humane bee-keeping. The clergy,
-especially, as permanent residents in the country, may have great
-influence in this respect. There is not a rural or suburban parish
-in the kingdom in which bee-keeping might not be largely extended,
-and the well being of all but the very poorest inhabitants would
-be greatly promoted. Not only would the general practice of bee-keeping
-add largely to the national resources, but that addition
-would chiefly fall to the share of those classes to whom it would be
-of most value. Moreover, in the course of thus adding to their
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_ix">- ix -</span>
-income, the uneducated classes would become interested in an
-elevating and instructive pursuit.</p>
-
-<p>It is curious to observe that honey, whether regarded as a
-manufactured article or as an agricultural product, is obtained
-under economical conditions of exceptional advantage. If regarded
-as a manufactured article, we notice that there is no outlay required
-for "labour," nor any expense for "raw material." The industrious
-labourers are eager to utilize all their strength: they never
-"combine" except for the benefit of their master, they never
-"strike" for wages, and they provide their own subsistence. All
-that the master manufacturer of honey has to do financially, is to
-make a little outlay for "fixed capital" in the needful "plant" of
-hives and utensils&mdash;no "floating capital" is needed. Then, on the
-other hand, if we regard honey as an agricultural product, it
-presents as such a still more striking contrast to the economists'
-theory of what are the "requisites of production." Not only is
-there no outlay needed for wages and none for raw material, but
-there is nothing to be paid for "use of a natural agent." Every
-square yard of land in the United Kingdom may come to be
-cultivated, as in China, but no proprietor will ever be able to claim
-"rent" for those "waste products" of the flowers and leaves, which
-none but the winged workers of the hive can ever utilize.</p>
-
-<p>The recent domestication in England of the Ligurian or
-"Italian Alp" bee adds a new and additional source of interest
-to bee-culture. We have, therefore, gone pretty fully into this
-part of the subject; 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 apiarians.<a id="FNanchor_1" href="#Footnote_1" class="fnanchor">[1]</a></p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_1" href="#FNanchor_1" class="label">[1]</a> 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 bees. We can dispel these
-fears by stating that we have not unfrequently found that hybrid queens
-possess the surprising fecundity of the genuine Italian ones, whilst the English
-stocks in course of time become strengthened by the infusion of foreign blood.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_x">- x -</span></p>
-
-<p>We are under many obligations for the advice and assistance
-that we have on many occasions received from Mr. T. W.
-Woodbury, of Exeter, whose apiarian skill is unrivalled in this
-country. Our acknowledgments are also due to Mr. Henry Taylor,
-author of an excellent "Bee-Keeper's Manual," for his help
-and counsel during the earlier years of our apiarian experience.
-Both the before-mentioned gentlemen have freely communicated to
-us their contrivances and suggestions, without thought of fee or
-reward for them. In common with most recent writers on bee-culture,
-we are necessarily largely indebted to the standard works of
-Huber and succeeding apiarians. From the more recent volume of
-the Rev. L. L. Langstroth we have also obtained useful information.
-But having ourselves of later years had considerable experience in
-the manipulation and practical management of bees, we are enabled
-to confirm or qualify the statement of others, as well as to summarize
-information gleaned from many various sources. We should state
-that our thanks are due to Mr. W. Martin Wood, who has rendered
-us valuable aid in the arrangement of this work.</p>
-
-<p>Let it be understood that we have no <i>patented devices</i>
-to push: we are free to choose out of the many apiarian
-contrivances that have been offered of late years, and we
-feel perfectly at liberty to praise or blame as our experience
-warrants us in doing. It does not follow that we necessarily
-disparage hives which are not described herein; we have
-sought, as much as possible, to indicate the <i>principles</i> on which
-<i>good hives</i> must be constructed, whatever their outward size or
-shape. All through the work, we have endeavoured to adopt the
-golden rule of "submission to nature," by reference to which all the
-fancied difficulties of bee-keeping may be easily overcome. In none
-of the attempts of men to hold sway over natural objects, is the truth
-of Bacon's leading doctrine more beautifully illustrated than in the
-power that the apiarian exercises in the little world of bees.</p>
-
-<p>There are one or two literary peculiarities of this work to which
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_xi">- xi -</span>
-we ought to refer. It will be noticed that the numbers affixed to
-the names of the various hives and utensils do not follow in regular
-order. Those numbers refer to our Illustrated Catalogue, with
-which most English apiarians have long been familiar, and we
-could not alter them without great inconvenience.</p>
-
-<p>Some persons may consider we have used too many poetical
-quotations in a book dealing wholly with matters of fact. We
-trust, however, that an examination of the extracts will at once
-remove that feeling of objection.</p>
-
-<p>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 insects. Although bees have neither reason nor religion for
-their guide, yet from them man may learn many a lesson of virtue
-and industry, and may even draw from them thoughts suggestive
-of trust and faith in God.</p>
-
-<p>We beg leave to conclude our preface, and introduce the subject,
-by the following extract from Shakespeare,&mdash;who, without doubt,
-kept bees in that garden at Stratford wherein he used to meditate:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent8">"So work the honey bees;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Creatures, that by a rule in Nature, teach</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The art of order to a peopled kingdom.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">They have a king and officers of sorts;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Where some, like magistrates, correct at home;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Others, like merchants, venture trade abroad;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Others, like soldiers, armed in their stings.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Make boot upon the Summer's velvet buds.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Which pillage they, with merry march, bring home</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">To the tent royal of their emperor:</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Who, busied in his majesty, surveys</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The singing masons building roofs of gold;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The civil citizens kneading up the honey;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The poor mechanic porters crowding in</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Their heavy burdens at his narrow gate;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The sad-eyed justice, with his surly hum,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Delivering o'er to executors pale</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The lazy, yawning drone."&mdash;</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class="tdr">
-<span class="smcap">Shakespeare's</span> <i>Henry V., Act I., Scene 2.</i><br />
-</p>
-
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_xii">- xii -</span></p>
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_1">- 1 -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="THE_APIARY">THE APIARY;<br />
-
-<span class="vsmall">OR</span><br />
-
-<span class="smaller">BEES, BEE-HIVES, &amp; BEE CULTURE.</span></h2>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="bar_ball" style="width: 101px;">
- <img src="images/bar_ball.png" width="101" height="20" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<p class="p0"><span class="smcap">There</span> are two classes of persons for whom bee-culture should have
-a strong interest, and two distinct purposes for which the pursuit
-may be followed. First, there is the cottager or small farmer who,
-in thousands of instances, might add considerably to his income by
-bee-keeping; and secondly, there is the man of "retired leisure"
-and refinement, who, in the personal tendance of an apiary would find
-an easy and interesting occupation, and one which could not fail to
-quicken his faculties of general scientific observation. Moreover, in
-contemplating the wonderful skill, industry, and prevision of his
-insect artisans, the bee-keeper would find in his apiary constant
-illustrations of creative wisdom.</p>
-
-<p>Amongst the humbler classes in the rural districts, the neglect
-of bee-keeping is to be attributed to an exaggerated idea of the
-trouble needful for the care of a few hives, and also to ignorance of
-the easier and more profitable methods of modern management. Many
-of the wealthier country or suburban residents, also, are averse to
-the personal trouble which they fancy needful in keeping an apiary;
-and, perhaps, some gentlemen are more afraid than they would like
-to own of that very efficient weapon of defence with which the
-honey bee is provided. But the prejudices against bees are quite
-unnecessary; bees are as tractable as they are intelligent, and it is
-the purpose of this little book to show that bee-culture is an easy
-and safe, as well as a deeply interesting, pursuit. Possibly, also,
-some who do us the favour to read our detailed explanations, will
-see how the rural clergyman, or the benevolent landlord, who keeps
-an apiary of his own, may be of signal service to his poorer neighbours
-in explaining to them the mysteries of bee-keeping.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_2">- 2 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="inhabitants" class="caption3">I. THE INHABITANTS OF THE HIVE.</p>
-
-<p>Every hive or bee colony comprises three distinct classes of
-bees, each class having functions peculiar to itself, and which are
-essential to the well-being of the whole community. As each bee
-knows its own proper duties, they all work harmoniously and zealously
-together, for the common weal. Certain apparent exceptions to the
-good-fellowship of the bees will be hereafter noticed, but those
-arise out of essential conditions in the social economy of the bee
-community.</p>
-
-<p>The three classes of bees are:&mdash;the queen bee, with the pup&aelig; or
-embryos intended for queens; the working bees; and the drones or
-male bees.</p>
-
-<p id="queen"><span class="smcap">The Queen.</span>&mdash;Dr. Evans<a id="FNanchor_2" href="#Footnote_2" class="fnanchor">[2]</a> introduces the queen bee to our
-notice thus:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">First of the throng, and foremost of the whole,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">One 'stands confest the sovereign and the soul.'</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_2" href="#FNanchor_2" class="label">[2]</a> Dr. Evans,&mdash;who may be styled the poet-laureate of the bees,&mdash;lived at
-Shrewsbury, where he practiced as a physician. His poem on bees is written
-with great taste and careful elaboration, and it describes the habits of bees
-with a degree of accuracy only attainable after continuous scientific observation.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>The queen may very readily be distinguished from the rest of the
-bees by the greater length of her body, and the comparative shortness
-of her wings; her legs are longer, and are not furnished with either
-brushes or baskets as those of the working bee, for being constantly
-fed by the latter, she does not need those implements; the upper
-surface of her body is of a brighter black than the other bees,
-whilst her colour underneath is a yellowish brown; her wings, which
-do not extend more than half the length of her body, are sinewy and
-strong; her long abdomen tapers nearly to a point; her head is
-rounder, her tongue more slender, and not nearly so long, as that of
-the working bee, and her sting is curved; her movements are
-measured and majestic, as she moves in the hive the other bees form
-a circle round her, none venturing to turn their backs upon her,
-but all anxious to show that respect and attention due to her rank
-and station. Whenever in the exercise of her sovereign will the
-queen wishes to travel amongst her subjects, she experiences no
-inconvenience from overcrowding; although the part of the hive to
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_3">- 3 -</span>
-which she is journeying may be the most populous, way is immediately
-made, the common bees tumbling over each other to get out of her
-way, so great is their anxiety not to interfere with the royal progress.</p>
-
-<p>It is the chief function of the queen to lay the eggs from which
-all future bees originate, the multiplication of the species being the
-purpose of her existence, and she follows it up with an assiduity
-similar to that with which the workers construct combs or collect
-honey. A queen is estimated to lay in the breeding season from
-1,500 to 2,000 eggs a-day, and in the course of one year is
-supposed to produce more than 100,000 bees. This is indeed a vast
-number; but when there is taken into consideration the great
-number required for swarms, the constant lessening of their strength
-by death in various ways, and the many casualties attending them
-in their distant travels in search of the luscious store, it does not
-seem that the case is over stated.</p>
-
-<p>In a Glass Unicomb Hive,&mdash;which we shall hereinafter describe,&mdash;all
-the movements of the queen-bee may be traced; she may be
-seen thrusting her head into a cell to discover whether it be occupied
-with an egg or honey, and if empty, she turns round in a dignified
-manner and inserts her long body&mdash;so long, that she is able to
-deposit the egg at the bottom of the cell; she then passes on to
-another, and so continues industriously multiplying her laborious
-subjects. It not unfrequently happens when the queen is prolific,
-and if it be an early season, that many eggs are wasted for want of
-unoccupied cells; for in that case the queen leaves them exposed at
-the bottom of the hive when they are greedily devoured by the bees.
-The queen-bee, unlike the great majority of her subjects, is a stayer
-at home; generally speaking, she only quits the hive twice in her life.
-The first occasion is on the all-important day of her marriage, which
-always takes place at a great height in the air, and generally on
-the second or third day of her princess-life; she never afterwards
-leaves the hive, except to lead off an emigrating swarm. Evans,
-with proper loyalty, has duly furnished a glowing epithalamium for
-the queen-bee:&mdash;thus.</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">When noon-tide Sirius glares on high,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Young love ascends the glowing sky,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">From vein to vein swift shoots prolific fire.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And thrills each insect fibre with desire;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Then Nature to fulfil thy prime decree,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Wheels round in wanton rings, the courtier Bee;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_4">- 4 -</span>
- <div class="verse indent0">Now shyly distant, now with bolder air,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">He woos and wins the all-complying fair;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Through fields of ether, veiled in vap'ry gloom</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">They seek, with amorous haste, the nuptial room;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">As erst the immortal pair, on Ida's height,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">wreath'd round their noon of joy, ambrosial night,</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>The loyalty and attachment of bees to their queen is one of
-their most remarkable characteristics; they constantly supply her
-with food, and fawn upon and caress her, softly touching her with
-their antenn&aelig;, a favour which she occasionally returns. When she
-moves about the hive, all the bees through whom she successively
-passes pay her the same homage; those whom she leaves behind in
-her track close together, and resume their accustomed occupations.</p>
-
-<p>The majestic deportment of the queen-bee and the homage paid
-to her is, with a little poetic license, thus described by Evans:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">But mark of royal port and awful mien.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Where moves with measured pace the insect Queen!</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Twelve chosen guards, with slow and solemn gait.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Bend at her nod, and round her person wait.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class="p0">This homage is, however, only paid to matron queens. Whilst they
-continue princesses, they receive no distinctive marks of respect.
-Dr. Dunbar, the noted Scotch apiarian, observed a very striking
-instance of this whilst experimenting on the combative qualities of
-the queen-bee. "So long," says he, "as the queen which survived
-the rencontre with her rival, remained a virgin, not the slightest
-degree of respect or attention was paid her&mdash;not a single bee gave
-her food; she was obliged, as often as she required it, to help herself;
-and in crossing the honey cells for that purpose, she had to
-scramble, often with difficulty, over the crowd, not an individual of
-which got out of her way, or seemed to care whether she fed or
-starved; but no sooner did she become a mother, than the scene
-was changed, and all testified towards her that most affectionate
-attention, which is uniformly exhibited to fertile queens."</p>
-
-<p>The queen-bee, though provided with a sting, never uses it on
-any account, except in combat with her sister queens. But she admits
-of no rival to her throne; almost her first act on coming forth from
-the cell, is an attempt to tear open and destroy the cells containing
-the pup&aelig; of princesses likely to become competitors. Should it so
-happen that another queen of similar age does exist in the hive at
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_5">- 5 -</span>
-the same time, the two are speedily brought into contact with each
-other in order to fight it out and decide by a struggle, mortal to one
-of them, which is to be the ruler;&mdash;the stronger of course is
-victorious, and remains supreme. This, it must be admitted, is a
-wiser method of settling the affair than it would be to range the
-whole band under two distinct banners, and so create a civil war,
-killing and destroying each other for matters with which they individually
-have little or no concern: for the bees care not which
-queen it is, as long as they are certain of having one to rule over
-them and perpetuate the community.</p>
-
-<p>After perusing the description given above of the attachment
-of bees to their queen, it may be easy to imagine the consternation
-a hive is thrown into when deprived of her presence. The bees first
-make a diligent search for their monarch in the hive, and then afterwards
-rush forth in immense numbers to seek her. When such a
-commotion is observed in an apiary, the experienced bee-master will
-repair the loss by giving a queen: the bees have generally their
-own remedy for such a calamity, in their power of raising a new
-queen from amongst their larv&aelig;; but if neither of these means be
-available, the whole colony dwindles and dies. The following is the
-method by which working bees provide a successor to the throne
-when deprived of their queen by accident, or in anticipation of the
-first swarm, which is always led by the old queen:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>They select, when not more than three days old, an egg or grub
-previously intended for a worker-bee, and then enlarge the cell so
-selected by destroying the surrounding partitions; they thus form
-a royal cradle, in shape very much like an acorn cup inverted. The
-chosen embryo is then fed liberally with a peculiar description of
-nurture, called by naturalists "royal jelly"&mdash;a pungent food, prepared
-by the working bees exclusively for those of the larv&aelig; that are
-destined to become candidates for the honour of royalty. Should
-a queen be forcibly separated from her subjects, she resents the
-interference, refuses food, pines, and dies.</p>
-
-<p>The whole natural history of the queen-bee is in itself a subject
-that will well repay for continuous study. Those who desire to
-follow it, we would refer to the complete works of <span class="smcap">Huber</span>&mdash;the
-greatest of apiarians,&mdash;<span class="smcap">Swammerdam</span>, <span class="smcap">Bevan</span>, <span class="smcap">Langstroth</span>, &amp;c.
-The observations upon the queen-bee needful to verify the above mentioned
-facts can only be made in hives constructed for the purpose,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_6">- 6 -</span>
-of which our "Unicomb Observatory Hive" is one of the best. In
-ordinary hives the queen is scarcely ever to be seen; where there
-are several rows of comb, she invariably keeps between them, both
-for warmth and to be more secure from danger. The writer has
-frequently observed in stocks which have unfortunately died, that the
-queen was one of the last to expire; and she is always more difficult
-to gain possession of than other bees, being by instinct taught that
-she is indispensable to the welfare of her subjects.</p>
-
-<p>The queen enjoys a far longer life than any of her subjects, her
-age generally extending to four or even five years. The drones,
-which are mostly hatched in the early spring, seldom live more than
-three or four months, even if they should escape the sting of the
-executioner, to which they generally fall victims. The worker-bee,
-it is now a well-ascertained fact, lives from six to eight months, in
-no case exceeding the latter; so that we may reckon that the bees
-hatched in April and May expire about the end of the year, and it is
-those of the autumn who carry on the duties of the hive until the
-spring and summer, that being the time when the greatest number
-of eggs are laid. The population of a hive is very small during the
-winter, in comparison with the vast numbers gathering produce in
-the summer,&mdash;produce which they themselves live to enjoy but for
-a short period. So that not only, as of old, may lessons of industry
-be learned from bees, but they also teach self-denial to mankind,
-since they labour for the community rather than for themselves.
-Evans, in describing the age of bees, thus paraphrases the well
-known couplet of Homer in allusion to the fleeting generations
-of men:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Like leaves on trees, the race of bees is found,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Now green in youth, now withering on the ground;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Another race the spring or fall supplies.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">They droop successive, and successive rise.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p id="drone"><span class="smcap">The Drone.</span>&mdash;The drones are male bees; they possess no sting,
-are more hairy and larger than the common bee, and may be easily
-distinguished by their heavy motion, thick-set form, and louder
-humming. Evans thus describes the drones:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent19">Their short proboscis sips.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">No luscious nectar from the wild thyme's lips;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">From the lime leaf no amber drops they steal.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Not bear their grooveless thighs the foodful meal:</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_7">- 7 -</span>
- <div class="verse indent0">On others' toils in pampered leisure thrive,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The lazy fathers of the industrious hive;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Yet oft, we're told, these seeming idlers share</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The pleasing duties of parental care;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">With fond attention guard each genial cell,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And watch the embryo bursting from the shell.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>But Dr. Evans had been "told" what was not correct when he
-sought to dignify drones with the office of "nursing fathers,"&mdash;that
-task is undertaken by the younger of the working-bees. No occupation
-falls to the lot of the drones in gathering honey, nor have they the
-means provided them by nature for assisting in the labours of the hive.
-The drones are the progenitors of working bees, and nothing more;
-so far as is known, that is the only purpose of their short existence.</p>
-
-<p>In a well-populated hive the number of drones is computed
-at from one to two thousand. "Naturalists," says Huber, "have
-been extremely embarrassed to account for the number of males in
-most hives, and which seem only a burden to the community, since
-they appear to fulfil no function. But we now begin to discern
-the object of nature in multiplying them to such an extent. As
-fecundation cannot be accomplished within the hive, and as the
-queen is obliged to traverse the expanse of the atmosphere, it is
-requisite that the males should be numerous, that she may have the
-chance of meeting some one of them in her flight. Were only two
-or three in each hive, there would be little probability of their
-departure at the same instant with the queen, or that they would
-meet her in their excursions; and most of the females might thus
-remain sterile." It is important for the safety of the queen-bee that
-her stay in the air should be as brief as possible: her large size,
-and the slowness of her flight, render her an easy prey to birds. It
-is not now thought that the queen always pairs with a drone of the same
-hive, as Huber seems to have supposed. Once impregnated,&mdash;as is
-the case with most insects,&mdash;the queen-bee continues productive
-during the remainder of her existence. It has, however, been
-found that though old queens cease to lay worker eggs, they may
-continue to lay those of drones. The swarming season being over,
-that is about the end of July, a general massacre of the "lazy fathers"
-takes place. Dr. Bevan, in the "Honey Bee," observes on this
-point, "the work of the drones being now completed, they are
-regarded as useless consumers of the fruits of others' labour, love
-is at once converted into hate, and a general proscription takes
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_8">- 8 -</span>
-place. The unfortunate victims evidently perceive their danger, for
-they are never, at this time, seen resting in one place, but darting
-in and out of the hive with the utmost precipitation, as if in fear
-of being seized."</p>
-
-<p>Their destruction is thought, by some, to be caused by their
-being harassed until they quit the hive; but Huber says he
-ascertained that the death of the drones was caused by the stings
-of the workers. Supposing the drones come forth in May, which
-is the average period of their being hatched, their destruction takes
-place somewhere about the commencement of August, so that three
-months is the usual extent of their existence; but should it so
-happen that the usual development of the queen has been retarded,
-or that the hive has in any case been deprived of her, the massacre
-of the drones is deferred. But in any case, the natural term of
-the life of drone bees does not exceed four months, so that they are
-all dead before the winter, and are not allowed to be useless consumers
-of the general store.</p>
-
-<p id="worker"><span class="smcap">The Worker Bee.</span>&mdash;The working bees form, by far, the most
-numerous class of the three kinds contained in the hive, and least
-of all require description. They are the smallest of the bees, are
-dark brown in colour or nearly black, and much more active on the
-wing than are either drones or queens. The usual number in a
-healthy hive varies from twelve to thirty thousand; and, previous
-to swarming, exceeds the larger number. The worker-bee is of the
-same sex as the queen, but is only partially developed. Any egg of
-a worker-bee,&mdash;by the cell being enlarged, as already described, and
-the "royal jelly" being supplied to the larva,&mdash;may be hatched
-into a mature and perfect queen. This, one of the most curious
-facts connected with the natural history of bees, may be verified
-in any apiary by most interesting experiments, which may be turned
-to important use. With regard to the supposed distinctions between
-"nursing" and working bees, it is now agreed that it only consists
-in a division of labour,&mdash;the young workers staying at home to feed
-the larv&aelig; until they are themselves vigorous enough to range the
-fields in quest of supplies. But, for many details of unfailing
-interest, we must again refer our readers to the standard works on
-bees that have already been named.</p>
-
-<p id="eggs"><span class="smcap">The Eggs of Bees.</span>&mdash;It is necessary that some explanation
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_9">- 9 -</span>
-should be given as to the existence of the bee before it emerges
-from the cell.</p>
-
-<p>The eggs of all the three kinds of bees when first deposited are
-of an oval shape, and of a bluish-white colour. In four or five
-days the egg changes to a worm, and in this stage is known by
-the names of larva or grub, in which state it remains four to six days
-more; during this period it is fed by the nurse-bees with a mixture
-of farina and honey, a constant supply of which is given to it: the
-next transformation is to the nymph or pupa form; the nurse-bees
-now seal up the cell with a preparation similar to wax; and
-then the pupa spins round itself a film or cocoon, just as a
-silkworm does in its chrysalis state. The microscope shows that
-this cradle-curtain is perforated with very minute holes, through
-which the baby-bee is duly supplied with air. No further attention
-on the part of the bees is now requisite except a proper degree
-of heat, which they take care to keep up, a position for the breeding
-cells being selected in the centre of the hive where the temperature
-is likely to be most congenial.</p>
-
-<p>Twenty-one days after the egg is first laid (unless cold weather
-should have retarded it) the bee quits the pupa state, and nibbling its
-way through the waxen covering that has enclosed it, comes forth
-a winged insect. In the Unicomb Observatory Hive, the young
-bees may distinctly be seen as they literally fight their way into the
-world, for the other bees do not take the slightest notice, nor afford
-them any assistance. We have frequently been amused in watching
-the eager little new-comer, now obtruding its head, and anon compelled
-to withdraw into the cell, to escape being trampled on by
-the apparently unfeeling throng, until at last it has succeeded in
-making its exit. The little grey creature, after brushing and
-shaking itself, enters upon its duties in the hive, and in a day or
-two may be seen gathering honey in the fields&mdash;some say on the day
-of its birth,&mdash;thus early illustrating that character for industry,
-which has been proverbial, at least, since the days of Aristotle, and
-which has in our day been rendered familiar even to infant minds
-through the nursery rhymes of Dr. Watts.</p>
-
-<p id="increase"><span class="smcap">Increase of Bees.</span>&mdash;Every one is familiar with the natural
-process of "swarming," by which bees provide themselves with fresh
-space and seek to plant colonies to absorb their increase of population.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_10">- 10 -</span>
-But the object of the bee-master is to train and educate
-his bees, and in so doing he avoids much of the risk and trouble
-which is incurred by allowing the busy folk to follow their own
-devices. The various methods for this end adopted by apiarians all
-come under the term of the "depriving" system; and they form part
-of the great object of humane and economical bee-keeping, which is
-to save the bees alive instead of slaughtering them as under the old
-clumsy system. A very natural question is often asked,&mdash;how it is
-that upon the depriving system, where our object is to prevent
-swarming, the increase of numbers is not so great as upon the
-old plan? It will be seen that the laying of eggs is performed by
-the queen only, and that there is but one queen to each hive; so
-that where swarming is prevented, there remains only one hive or
-stock, as the superfluous princesses are not allowed to come to
-maturity. Our plan of giving additional store-room will, generally
-speaking, prevent swarming; this stay-at-home policy, we contend,
-is an advantage, for instead of the loss of time consequent upon a
-swarm hanging out preparatory to flight, all the bees are engaged
-in collecting honey, and that at a time when the weather is most
-favourable and the food most abundant. Upon the old system, the
-swarm leaves the hive simply because the dwelling has not been
-enlarged at the time when the bees are increasing. The emigrants
-are always led off by the old queen, leaving either young or embryo
-queens to lead off after swarms, and to furnish a mistress for the old
-stock, and carry on the multiplication of the species. Upon the
-antiquated and inhuman plan where so great a destruction takes
-place by the brimstone match, breeding must, of course, be allowed
-to go on to its full extent to make up for such sacrifices. Our
-chief object under the new system is to obtain honey free from all
-extraneous matter. Pure honey cannot be gathered from combs
-where storing and breeding are performed in the same compartment.
-For fuller explanations on this point, we refer to the various descriptions
-of our improved hives in a subsequent section of this work.</p>
-
-<p>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 hour." The
-ancients in Greece and Italy took the surplus honey and spared the
-bees, and now for every intelligent bee-keeper there are ample
-appliances wherewith to attain the same results. Mr. Langstroth
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_11">- 11 -</span>
-quotes from the German the following epitaph which, he says,
-"might be properly placed over every pit of brimstoned bees:"&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="tdc">
-
-<p class="tdc antiqua">Here Rests,</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">CUT OFF FROM USEFUL LABOUR,</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">A COLONY OF</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">INDUSTRIOUS BEES,</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">BASELY MURDERED</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">BY ITS</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">UNGRATEFUL AND IGNORANT<br />
-OWNER.</p>
-</div>
-
-
-<p>And Thomson, the poet of "The Seasons," has recorded an
-eloquent poetic protest against the barbarous practice, for which,
-however, in his day there was no alternative:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">All, see, where robbed and murdered in that pit,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Lies the still heaving hive! at evening snatched,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Beneath the cloud of guilt-concealing night,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And fix'd o'er sulphur! while, not dreaming ill,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The happy people, in their waxen cells,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Sat tending public cares.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Sudden, the dark, oppressive steam ascends.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And, used to milder scents, the tender race.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">By thousands, tumble from their honied dome</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Into a gulf of blue sulphureous flame!</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>It will be our pleasing task in subsequent chapters to show "a
-more excellent way."</p>
-
-
-<p id="swarming" class="caption3">SWARMING.</p>
-
-<p>The spring is the best period at which to open an apiary, and
-swarming-time is a good starting point for the new bee-keeper. The
-period known as the swarming season is during the months of May
-and June. With a very forward stock, and in exceedingly fine
-weather, bees do occasionally swarm in April. The earlier the
-swarm the greater is its value. If bees swarm in July, they seldom
-gather sufficient to sustain themselves through the winter; though,
-by careful feeding, they may easily be kept alive, if hived early in
-the month.</p>
-
-<p>The cause of a swarm leaving the stock-hive is, that the population
-has grown too large for it. Swarming is a provision of
-nature for remedying the inconvenience of overcrowding, and is the
-method whereby the bees seek for space in which to increase their
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_12">- 12 -</span>
-stores. By putting on "super hives," the required relief may, in
-many cases, be given to them; but should the multiplication of
-stocks be desired, the bee-keeper will defer increasing the space
-until the swarm has issued forth. In May, when the spring has
-been fine, the queen-bee is very active in laying eggs, and the
-increase in a strong healthy hive is so prodigious that emigration is
-necessary, or the bees would cease to work.</p>
-
-<p>It is now a well established fact that the old queen goes forth
-with the first swarm, preparation having been made to supply her
-place as soon as the bees determine upon the necessity of a division
-of their commonwealth. Thus the sovereignty of the old hive, after
-the first swarm has issued, devolves upon a young queen.</p>
-
-<p>As soon as the swarm builds combs in its new abode, the
-emigrant-queen, being impregnated and her ovaries full, begins
-laying eggs in the cells, and thereby speedily multiplies the
-labourers of the new colony. Although there is now amongst
-apiarians no doubt that the old queen quits her home, there is no
-rule as to the composition of the swarm&mdash;old and young alike
-depart. Some show unmistakable signs of age by their ragged
-wings, others their extreme youth by their lighter colour; how they
-determine which shall stay and which shall go has not yet been
-ascertained. In preparation for flight, bees commence filling their
-honey bags, taking sufficient, it is said, for three days' sustenance.
-This store is needful, not only for food, but to enable the bees to
-commence the secretion of wax and the building of combs in their
-new domicile.</p>
-
-<p>On the day of emigration the weather must be fine, warm, and
-clear, with but little wind stirring; for the old queen, like a prudent
-matron, will not venture out unless the day is in every way favorable.
-Whilst her majesty hesitates, either for the reasons we have mentioned,
-or because the internal arrangements are not sufficiently matured,
-the bees will often fly about or hang in clusters at the entrance of
-the hive for two or three days and nights together, all labour
-meanwhile being suspended. The agitation of the little folk is
-well described by Evans:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">See where, with hurried step, the impassioned throng</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Pace o'er the hive, and seem, with plaintive song,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">T' invite the loitering queen; now range the floor,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And hang in cluster'd columns from the door;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_13">- 13 -</span>
- <div class="verse indent0">Or now in restless rings around they fly,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Nor spoil thy sip, nor load the hollowed thigh;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">E'en the dull drone his wonted ease gives o'er,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Haps his unwieldly wings, and longs to soar.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>But when all is ready, a scene of the most violent agitation takes
-place; the bees rush out in vast numbers, forming quite a dark cloud
-as they traverse the air.</p>
-
-<p>The time selected for the departure of the emigrants is generally
-between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m.; most swarms come off within an hour
-of noon. It is a very general remark that bees choose a Sunday for
-swarming, and probably this is because then greater stillness reigns
-around. It will not be difficult to imagine that the careful bee-keeper
-is anxious to keep a strict watch, lest he should lose such
-a treasure when once it takes wing. The exciting scene at a
-bee-swarming has been well described by the apiarian laureate:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Up mounts the chief, and, to the cheated eye,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Ten thousand shuttles dart along the sky;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">As swift through &aelig;ther rise the rushing swarms,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Gay dancing to the beam their sunbright forms;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And each thin form, still lingering on the sight.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Trails as it shoots, a line of silver light.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">High poised on buoyant wing, the thoughtful queen,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">In gaze attentive, views the varied scene,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And soon her far-fetched ken discerns below;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The light laburuam lift her polished brow.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Wave her green leafy ringlets o'er the glade.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Swift as the falcon's sweep, the monarch bends</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Her flight abrupt; the following host descends</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Round the fine twig, like clustered grapes they close</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">In thickening wreaths, and court a short repose.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>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 key. This is done
-with the absurd notion that the bees are charmed with the clangorous
-din, and may by it be induced to settle as near as possible to the
-source of such sweet sounds. This is, however, quite a mistake; there
-are other and better means for the purpose. The practice of ringing
-was originally adopted for a different and far more sensible object,
-viz., for the purpose of giving notice that a swarm had issued forth,
-and that the owner was anxious to claim the right of following,
-even though it should alight on a neighbour's premises. It would
-DC curious to trace how this ancient ceremony has thus got corrupted
-from the original design.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_14">- 14 -</span></p>
-
-<p>In case the bees do not speedily after swarming manifest signs
-of settling, a few handfuls of sand or loose mould may be thrown
-up in the air so as to fall among the winged throng; they mistake
-this for rain, and then very quickly determine upon settling. Some
-persons squirt a little water from a garden engine in order to
-produce the same effect.</p>
-
-<p>There are, indeed, many ingenious devices used by apiarians
-for decoying the swarms. Mr. Langstroth mentions a plan of
-stringing dead bees together, and tying a bunch of them on any shrub
-or low tree upon which it is desirable that they should alight;
-another plan is, to hang some black woven material near the hives,
-so that the swarming bees may be led to suppose they see another
-colony, to which they will hasten to attach themselves. Swarms
-have a great affinity for each other when they are adrift in the air;
-but, of course, when the union has been effected, the rival queens have
-to do battle for supremacy. A more ingenious device than any of the
-above, is by means of a mirror to flash a reflection of the sun's rays
-amongst a swarm, which bewilders the bees, and checks their flight.
-It is manifestly often desirable to use some of these endeavours to
-induce early settlement, and to prevent, if possible, the bees from
-clustering in high trees or under the eaves of houses, where it may
-be difficult to hive them.</p>
-
-<p>Should prompt measures not be taken to hive the bees as soon
-as the cluster is well formed, there is danger of their starting on a
-second flight; and this is what the apiarian has so much to dread.
-If the bees set off a second time, it is generally for a long flight, often
-for miles, so that in such a case it is usually impossible to follow
-them, and consequently a valuable colony may be irretrievably lost.</p>
-
-<p>Too much care cannot be exercised to prevent the sun's rays
-falling on a swarm when it has once settled. If exposed to heat
-in this way, bees are very likely to decamp. We have frequently
-stretched matting or sheeting on poles so as to intercept the glare,
-and thus render their temporary position cool and comfortable.</p>
-
-<p>Two swarms sometimes depart at the same time and join
-together; in such a case, we recommend that they be treated as one
-by putting them into a hive as before described, taking care to give
-abundant room, and not to delay affording access to the super hive
-or glasses. They will settle their own notions of sovereignty by one
-queen destroying the other. There are means of separating two
-swarms if done at the time; but the operation is a formidable one,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_15">- 15 -</span>
-and does not always repay even those most accustomed to such
-manipulation.</p>
-
-<p>With regard to preparations for taking a swarm, our advice to
-the bee-keeper must be the reverse of Mrs. Glass's notable injunction
-as to the cooking of a hare. Some time before you expect to take a
-swarm, be sure to have a proper hive in which to take it, and also
-every other requisite properly ready. Here we will explain what was
-said in the introduction as to the safety of moving and handling
-bees. A bee-veil or dress will preserve the most sensitive from the
-possibility of being stung. This article, which may be bought with
-the hives, is made of net close enough to exclude bees, but open
-enough for the operator's vision. It is made to go over the hat of
-a lady or cap of a gentleman; it can be tied round the waist, and
-has sleeves fastening at the wrist. A pair of photographer's india
-rubber gloves completes the full dress of the apiarian, who is then
-invulnerable even to enraged bees. But bees when swarming are
-in an eminently peaceful frame of mind; having dined sumptuously,
-they require to be positively provoked before they will sting. Yet
-there may be one or two foolish bees who, having neglected to fill their
-honey bags, are inclined to vent their ill-humour on the kind apiarian.
-When all is ready, the new hive is held or placed in an inverted
-position under the cluster of bees, which the operator detaches from
-their perch with one or two quick shakes; the floorboard is then
-placed on the hive, which is then slowly turned up on to its base,
-and it is well to leave it a short time in the same place, in order to
-allow of stragglers joining their companions.</p>
-
-<p>If the new swarm is intended for transportation to a distance, it
-is as well for it to be left at the same spot until evening, provided
-the sun is shaded from it: but if the hive is meant to stand in or
-near the same garden, it is better to remove it within half an hour
-to its permanent position, because so eager are newly-swarmed bees
-for pushing forward the work of furnishing their empty house,
-that they sally forth at once in search of materials.</p>
-
-<p>A swarm of bees in their natural state contains from 10,000 to
-20,000 insects, whilst in an established hive they number 40,000
-and upwards. 5,000 bees are said to weigh one pound; a good
-swarm will weigh from three to five pounds. We have known
-swarms not heavier than 2&frac12; pounds, that were in very excellent
-condition in August as regards store for the winter.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_16">- 16 -</span></p>
-
-<p>Hitherto, all our remarks have had reference to first or "prime"
-swarms; these are the best, and when a swarm is purchased such
-should be bargained for.</p>
-
-<p>Second swarms, known amongst cottage bee-keepers as "casts,"
-usually issue from the hive nine or ten days after the first
-has departed. It is not always that a second swarm issues, so much
-depends on the strength of the stock, the weather, and other causes;
-but should the bees determine to throw out another, the first hatched
-queen in the stock-hive is prevented by her subjects from destroying
-the other royal princesses, as she would do if left to her own devices.
-The consequence is that, like some people who cannot have their own
-way, she is highly indignant; and when thwarted in her purpose,
-utters, in quick succession, shrill, angry sounds, much resembling
-"<i>peep, peep</i>," commonly called "piping," but which more courtly
-apiarians have styled the <i>vox regalis</i>.</p>
-
-<p>This royal wailing continues during the evening, and is
-sometimes so loud as to be distinctly audible many yards from the
-hive. When this is the case, a swarm may be expected either on
-the next day, or at latest within three days. The second swarm is
-not quite so chary of weather as the first; it was the old lady who
-exercised so much caution, disliking to leave home except in the
-best of summer weather.</p>
-
-<p>In some instances, owing to favourable breeding seasons and
-prolific queens, a third swarm issues from the hive, this is termed a
-"colt;" and in remarkable instances, even a fourth, which in rustic
-phrase is designated a "filly." A swarm from a swarm is called a
-"maiden" swarm, and according to bee theory, will again have the
-old queen for its leader.</p>
-
-<p>The bee-master should endeavour to prevent his labourers from
-swarming more than once; his policy is rather to encourage the
-industrious gathering of honey by keeping a good supply of "supers"
-on the hives. Sometimes, however, he may err in putting on the
-supers too early or unduly late, and the bees will then swarm a
-second time, instead of making use of the store-rooms thus provided.
-In such a case, the clever apiarian, having spread the swarm on the
-ground, will select the queen, and cause the bees to go back to the
-hive from whence they came. This operation requires an amount of
-apiarian skill which, though it may easily be attained, is greater
-than is usually possessed.</p>
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_17">- 17 -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="II_MODERN_BEE_HIVES">II. MODERN BEE HIVES.</h2>
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="Nutts_Coll_Hive" class="caption3">NUTT'S COLLATERAL HIVE. No. 1.</p>
-
-<p>The late Mr. Nutt, author of "Humanity to Honey Bees," may
-be regarded as a pioneer of modern apiarians; we therefore select his
-hive wherewith to begin a description of those we have confidence
-in recommending. Besides, an account of Mr. Nutt's hive will
-necessarily include references to the various principles which
-subsequent inventors have kept in view.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page17" style="width: 281px;">
- <img src="images/page17.png" width="281" height="297" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Nutt's Collateral Hive consists
-of three boxes placed
-side by side (C. A. C), with
-an octagonal box B on the
-top which covers a bell-glass.
-Each of the three boxes is 9
-inches high, 9 inches wide,
-and 11 inches from back
-to front; thin wooden partitions,&mdash;in which six or seven openings corresponding
-with each other are made&mdash;divide these compartments,
-so that free access from one
-box to the other is afforded
-to the bees; this communication is stopped when necessary by a
-zinc slide passing down between each box. The octagonal cover B
-is about 10 inches in diameter and 20 high, including the sloping
-octagonal roof, surmounted with an acorn as a finish. There are
-two large windows in each of the end boxes, and one smaller one in
-the centre box; across the latter is a thermometer scaled and
-marked, so as to be an easy guide to the bee-master, showing him
-by the rise in temperature the increased accommodation required.
-This thermometer is a fixture, the indicating part being protected
-by two pieces of glass, to prevent the bees from coming between it
-and the window, and thereby obstructing the view.</p>
-
-<p>D D are ventilators. In the centre of each of the end boxes is a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_18">- 18 -</span>
-double zinc tube reaching down a little below the middle, the outer
-tube is a casing of plain zinc, with holes about a quarter of an inch
-wide dispersed over it; the inside one is of perforated zinc, with
-openings so small as to prevent the escape of the bees, a flange or
-rim keeps the tubes suspended through a hole made to receive it.
-The object in having double tubing, is to allow the inner one to be
-drawn up and the perforations to be opened by pricking out the
-wax, or rather the propolis, with which bees close all openings
-in their hives. These tubes admit a thermometer enclosed in a
-cylindrical glass, to be occasionally inserted during the gathering
-season; it requires to be left in the tube for about a quarter of an
-hour; and on its withdrawal, if found indicating 90 degrees or more,
-ventilation must be adopted to lower the temperature&mdash;the ornamental
-zinc top D must be left raised, and is easily kept in that
-position by putting the perforated part a little on one side.</p>
-
-<p>The boxes before described are placed on a raised double floor-board,
-extending the whole length, viz., about 36 inches. The
-floor-board projects a few inches in front. In the centre is the
-entrance;&mdash;as our engraving only shows the back of the hive, we
-must imagine it on the other side,&mdash;it is made by cutting a sunken
-way of about half-an-inch deep and 3 inches wide, in the floor-board
-communicating only with the middle box; it is through
-this entrance alone that the bees find their way into the hive,&mdash;access
-to the end boxes and the super being obtained from the
-inside. An alighting board is fitted close under the entrance for
-the bees to settle upon when returning laden with honey; this
-alighting board is removable for the convenience of packing. The
-centre, or stock-box, A, called by Mr. Nutt the Pavilion of Nature,
-is the receptacle for the swarm; for stocking this, it will be
-necessary to tack the side tins so as to close the side openings in the
-partition, and to tack some perforated zinc over the holes at top; the
-swarm may then be hived into it just the same as with a common
-hive. A temporary bottom-board may be used if the box has to be
-sent any distance; or a cloth may be tied round to close the bottom
-(the latter plan is best, because allowing plenty of air), and when
-brought home at night, the bees being clustered at the top, the cloth
-or temporary bottom must be removed, and the box gently placed on
-its own floor-board, and the hive set in the place it is permanently
-to occupy. E E are two block fronts which open with a hinge, a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_19">- 19 -</span>
-semicircular hole 3 inches long, 2 wide in the middle, is cut in the
-upper bottom-board immediately under the window of each box;
-these apertures are closed by separate perforated zinc slides; these
-blocks, when opened, afford a ready means of reducing the temperature
-of the side boxes, a current of air being quickly obtained, and are
-also useful for allowing the bees to throw out any refuse.</p>
-
-<p>The centre F is a drawer in which is a feeding trough, so constructed
-that the bees can descend through the opening before
-mentioned on to a false bottom of perforated zinc; liquid food is
-readily poured in by pulling out the drawer a little way, the bees
-come down on to the perforated zinc and take the food by inserting
-their proboscis through the perforations, with no danger
-of being drowned. Care must be exercised that the food is not
-given in such quantity as to come above the holes; by this means,
-each hive has a supply of food accessible only to the inmates, with
-no possibility, when closely shut in, of attracting robber bees from
-other hives.</p>
-
-<p>The exterior of these hives is <i>well</i> painted with two coats of lead
-colour, covered with two coats of green, and varnished. Notwithstanding
-this preservation, it is absolutely essential to place such a
-hive under a shed or cover of some sort, as the action of the sun and
-rain is likely to cause the wood to decay, whilst the extreme heat of
-a summer sun might cause the combs to fall from their foundations.</p>
-
-<p>Neat and tasteful sheds may be erected, either of zinc supported
-by iron or wooden rods, or a thatched roof may be supported in the
-same manner, and will form a pretty addition to the flower garden.</p>
-
-<p>When erecting a covering, it will be well to make it a foot or
-two longer, so as to allow of a cottage hive on either side, as the
-appearance of the whole is much improved by such an arrangement.</p>
-
-<p>The following directions, with some adaptation, are from "Nutt
-on Honey Bees:"&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>In the middle box the bees are to be first placed;&mdash;in it they
-should first construct their beautiful combs, and under the government
-of one sovereign&mdash;the mother of the hive&mdash;carry on their
-curious work, and display their astonishing architectural ingenuity.
-In this box, the <i>regina</i> of the colony, surrounded by her industrious,
-happy, humming subjects, carries on the propagation of her species,
-deposits in the cells prepared for the purpose by the other bees,
-thousands of eggs, though she seldom deposits more than one egg in
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_20">- 20 -</span>
-a cell at a time: these eggs are nursed up into a numerous progeny
-by the other inhabitants of the hive. It is at this time, when
-hundreds of young bees are daily coming into existence, that the
-collateral boxes are of the utmost importance&mdash;both to the bees
-domiciled in them, and to their proprietors; for when the brood
-become perfect bees in a common cottager's hive, a swarm is the
-necessary consequence. The queen, accompanied by a vast number
-of her subjects, leaves the colony, and seeks some other place in
-which to carry on the work nature has assigned her. But as
-swarming may by proper precaution and attention to this mode of
-management generally be prevented, it is good practice to do so;
-because the time necessarily required to establish a new colony, even
-supposing the cottager succeeds in saving the swarm, would otherwise
-be employed in collecting honey, and in enriching the old hive.
-Here, then, is one of the features of this plan&mdash;viz., <i>the prevention
-of swarming</i>. When symptoms of swarming begin to present
-themselves, which may be known by an unusual noise, the appearance
-of more than common activity among the bees in the middle
-box, and, above all, by a sudden rise of temperature, which will be
-indicated by the quicksilver in the thermometer rising to 75 degrees
-as scaled on the thermometer in the box; when these symptoms are
-apparent, the bee master may conclude that additional space is
-required. The top sliding tin should now be withdrawn from under
-the bell glass, which will open to the bees a new store-room; this they
-will soon occupy, and fill with combs and honey of pure whiteness,
-if the weather be fine to allow of their uninterrupted labour. It
-may be well here to mention, that if the glass have a small piece of
-clean worker comb attached to the perforated ventilating tube, the bees
-will more speedily commence their operations in it. When the glass is
-nearly filled, which in a good season will be in a very short space of
-time, the bees will again require increased accommodation; this will
-also be indicated by the thermometer further rising to 85; the end box,
-as thereon marked, must now be given them. Previously to drawing
-up a slide to enlarge their crowded house, the manager should take
-off the empty end box he intends to open to them, carefully and
-thoroughly cleanse it, and then smear or dress the inside of it with
-a little liquid honey. Thus prepared, he must return the box to its
-proper situation, and then withdraw the sliding tin that hitherto has
-cut it off from the middle box; by so doing the store-room is again
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_21">- 21 -</span>
-enlarged. The bees will commence operations in this new apartment.
-This simple operation, done at the proper time, generally prevents
-swarming; by it, the queen gains a vast addition to her dominions,
-and, consequently, increasing space for the multiplying population of
-her domicile. Provided the weather continue fine, and the thermometer
-has risen to 95 degrees, as marked on the scale, the remaining
-tin may be also withdrawn, thereby giving the bees, admittance to
-another box; there is now no lack of store-rooms nor of employment
-for our indefatigable labourers. The cylinder thermometer is
-required to be occasionally dropped into the ventilating tube of the
-side boxes to ascertain their temperature; for if exceeding or
-approaching that of the middle box, it must be reduced by ventilating;
-this is done by raising the zinc tops, to allow the air to pass through
-the perforations. The grand object of this system is to keep the end
-boxes and the bell glass cooler than the pavilion or middle box, so as to
-induce the queen to propagate her species there and there only, and
-not in the depriving part of the hive; by this means the side and
-upper combs are in no way discoloured by brood. The queen requires
-a considerable degree of warmth; the middle box does not require
-more ventilation than the additional openings afford. The bees
-enjoy coolness in the side boxes, and thereby the whiteness and
-purity of the luscious store are increased.</p>
-
-<p>After having given directions for the working of the hive, it
-remains to be told how to obtain possession of the store, and to get rid
-of our industrious tenants from the super and end boxes, of which
-the super glass will be almost sure to be filled first, having been first
-given to them. The operation of taking honey is best performed in
-the middle of a fine sunny day. 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 cement, properly called propolis; then take a piece of fine
-wire, or a piece of string will do, and, having hold of the two ends, draw
-it under the glass very slowly, so as to allow the bees to get out of the
-way. Having brought the string through, the glass is now separated
-from the hive; but it is well to leave the glass in its place for an
-hour or so, the commotion of the bees will then have subsided; and
-another advantage we find is, that the bees suck up the liquid and
-seal up the cells broken by the cutting off. You can then pass underneath
-the glass two pieces of tin or zinc; the one may be the proper
-slide to prevent the inmates of the hive coming out at the apertures,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_22">- 22 -</span>
-the other tin keeps all the bees in the glass close prisoners.
-After having been so kept a short time, the apiarian must see whether
-the bees in the glass manifest symptoms of uneasiness, because if they
-do not, it may be concluded that the queen is among them. In such
-a case, replace the glass, and recommence the operation on a future
-day. It is not often that her majesty is in the depriving hive or
-glass; but this circumstance does sometimes happen, and the
-removal at such a time must be avoided. When the bees that
-are prisoners run about in great confusion and restlessness, the
-operator may then conclude that the queen is absent, and that all is
-right. The glass may be taken away a little distance off, and placed
-in a flower-pot or other receptacle where it will be safe when
-inverted and the tin taken away, then the bees will be glad to
-make their escape back to their hive. A little tapping at the sides
-of the glass will render their tarriance uncomfortable, and the glass
-may then be taken into a darkened room or out-house with only a
-small aperture admitting light which must be open; the bees, like
-all insects, make towards the light and so escape. The bee-master
-should brush them off with a feather from the comb as they can be
-reached; but on no account, if there are many bees, should the glass
-be left, because the bees that are in the glass will gorge themselves
-to their full and speedily bring a host of others from the adjacent
-hives, who, in a very little time, would leave only the empty combs.
-It is truly marvellous how soon they will carry all the store back
-again, if allowed to do so. An empty glass should be put on to the
-hive in place of the full one, as it will attract the bees up, thereby
-preventing the too close crowding of the hive; and, if the summer
-be not too far advanced, they will work more honey-comb in it.</p>
-
-<p>The taking away of the end boxes is a somewhat similar process;
-but they should on no account be taken at the same time as the
-glass, or indeed at the same time as any other hive may be&mdash;<i>robbed</i>
-we were going to say, for it is robbery to the bees,&mdash;they intended
-the honey for their winter food, and are much enraged at being
-deprived of it. First shut down the dividing tin; the bees in the
-end box are now prisoners separated from the hive, keep them so
-half an hour, then take away the box bodily to another part of the
-garden, or into the dark out-house as before recommended.</p>
-
-<p>It may not be out of place here to say something respecting
-the enthusiastic inventor of the Collateral Hive&mdash;Thomas Nutt,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_23">- 23 -</span>
-who was an inhabitant of Spalding, in Lincolnshire. Having
-been disabled during a considerable period by rheumatic fever,
-he devoted all his attention to bees, at a time when bee-culture
-was but little valued; and, although it must be admitted
-that two boxes were used side by side long before Mr. Nutt's day,
-still it is due to him to state that the adoption of three boxes was
-entirely his own idea, and that as far as he then knew, the collateral
-system was his original invention. His statements have been severely
-criticised, and it does appear that the weight of honey which he
-names as having been produced in one season is perfectly incredible.
-But as in the district where he lived there is grown an immense
-quantity of mustard seed&mdash;the flowers of which afford excellent forage
-for bees&mdash;the honey harvests there, would doubtless, be very large.
-If Mr. Nutt has given his little favourites too much praise, it will be
-only charitable, now, to account for his statements by an excess of
-zeal and enthusiasm in this his study of bee-culture. 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-keeping, some of
-whom, whilst they condemned his statements, have themselves written
-really useful and practical works on the subject, which otherwise
-might possibly never have appeared. As the monks of old kept
-the lamp of religion burning, however dimly, until a more enlightened
-age, so Thomas Nutt may have assisted in a somewhat similar
-manner by energetically propounding his views, and thereby causing
-other apiarians to rise up whose names are now as familiar to us as
-household words, and whose works posterity will value. The writer
-of these pages has often accompanied Mr. Nutt on his visits to his
-patrons in the neighbourhood of London, and seen him perform
-his operations regardless of the anger of bees, and free from all
-fear of their stings. He often expatiated on the cruelty of the
-brimstone match and suffocation, denouncing the barbarous custom
-in the following terms:&mdash;"You may as well kill the cow for her
-milk, or the hen for her eggs, as the bee for its honey; why continue
-to light the fatal match, when every cottager in England has the
-means of saving this most useful and valuable insect?"</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_24">- 24 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Neighbors_Imp_Hive" class="caption3">NEIGHBOUR'S IMPROVED SINGLE BOX HIVE. No. 2.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page24" style="width: 182px;">
- <img src="images/page24.png" width="182" height="516" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>We have introduced the "Single Box
-Hive" to suit the convenience of those
-who, though desirous of keeping bees on
-the improved principle, do not wish to
-incur the expense or devote the space
-which is necessary for Nutt's hive.</p>
-
-<p>It consists of a lower or stock-box A.,
-11 inches square, 9 inches deep, with
-three large windows, a thermometer D, as
-in Nutt's, being fixed across the front one,
-protected at the sides by strips of glass to
-prevent the bees obscuring the quicksilver
-from sight. B is a cover the same size as the
-lower hive, large enough to allow space for
-a bell-glass 9 inches wide, 6 inches deep.
-E is the ventilator between the glass and the
-stock-hive, intended to prevent the queen
-travelling into the super hive, and also by
-cooling the hive to endeavour to prevent
-swarming; a sloping pagoda roof with an
-acorn top completes the upper story. A
-floor-board with a block front, as in Nutt's
-collateral, forms the base, the entrance being
-sunk as before described, and furnished
-with zinc slides to reduce or close it as may
-be required. To stock a hive of this description, it is necessary to send
-the stock-box to the party with whom you have agreed for the supply
-of a swarm. In the evening of the day the hive is thus tenanted,
-remove it to the position it is designed permanently to occupy;
-if the swarm has to be procured from a distance, and is transported
-by rail or other conveyance, a perforated zinc slide should be substituted
-for the plain slide that covers the top, and a large piece of
-perforated zinc must also be tacked to the bottom after the swarm
-has settled in; thus securely confined, with a free circulation of air
-throughout, bees that have been swarmed the day before may be
-safely sent any distance that will allow of their being released
-the day after, because bees, though they provision themselves for
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_25">- 25 -</span>
-a couple of days, cannot with safety be confined in an empty hive
-much longer.</p>
-
-<p>Having now, we will suppose, procured your swarm, and having
-placed it in a south or south-east aspect, you may with advantage,
-if the weather be wet, give a little liquid food; the feeding in this
-hive is performed at the top of stock-box, where the glass is
-worked. Our round Feeding Pan or the new Feeding-Bottle
-may here be used. Any fancy as to the position may be indulged
-in, but must be settled on by the time the bees are set at liberty,
-because any alteration afterwards is detrimental to the working of
-the hive. The bees on first issuing forth, carefully mark their new
-abode and the surrounding objects, so that if a change be made,
-they are completely thrown out in their observations, which confuses
-them not a little, and occasions loss. Bees always return to the
-same spot; it is the locality that they know, and if the hive is
-moved a less distance than a mile, thousands return to the spot on
-which the hive has been accustomed to stand.</p>
-
-<p>Allow your bees to collect honey and build their combs for ten
-days or a fortnight. Much now depends on the weather; if fine,
-by this time they will require additional room, which will be indicated
-by the thermometer D rapidly rising; 100 degrees is the
-swarming point, the hive must be kept below this by ventilation.</p>
-
-<p>Access must now be given to the flat bell-glass at the top, which
-is done by withdrawing the top slide. In a few hours, sometimes
-immediately, the work of comb-building begins in the glass&mdash;all the
-sooner, if a piece of clean empty comb be placed therein.</p>
-
-<p>It is of service to keep the glass warm by means of a worsted or
-baize bag, it prevents the temperature from falling at night when
-much comb-building is carried on, providing the heat is not allowed to
-escape. Probably, if all goes on well, in three weeks the glass will
-be found to be filled with fine white honey-comb. When you find
-that the comb is well sealed up, it is time to take it off, but if the
-cells are unfilled and unsealed, let the little labourers complete their
-work&mdash;a little experience will soon enable the bee-keeper to determine
-this point.</p>
-
-<p>The plan to be adopted for taking glasses of honey-comb is the
-same as described for <a href="#Page_21">hive No. 1, page 21</a>.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_26">- 26 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Taylors_Am_Shallow" class="caption3">TAYLOR'S AMATEUR SHALLOW BOX OR EIGHT BAR HIVE. No. 3.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page26a" style="width: 208px;">
- <img src="images/page26a.png" width="208" height="272" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page26b" style="width: 184px;">
- <img src="images/page26b.png" width="184" height="453" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Taylor's Amateur Hive, as seen
-by reference to the engraving, consists
-of three boxes, the lower one
-A, is the stock box, in which the
-swarm is first placed; B is the first
-super; and C the centre box; all
-three boxes are of the same diameter,
-viz., 13&frac12; inches square inside; A, the
-stock box, is 7&frac12; deep; B, 6&frac12; inches;
-both are fitted with eight moveable
-bars, each bar being 1&#8539; wide, with
-spaces of half an inch between, and
-all are easily removed by unscrewing
-the crown board, in which are two
-openings closed by zinc slides; the middle
-box C has no bars, and is still shallower
-than either of the other boxes, being 5
-inches deep. In many localities and
-seasons, the third box may not be required. Each box has two windows&mdash;one
-at the back and another at the
-side, a zinc shutter sliding in a groove,
-excluding light and retaining warmth;
-the box C differs from the others in another
-respect; instead of bars it has a grating
-made by seven openings, each &frac12;
-an inch wide and 9 inches long; these
-three boxes stand on a stout floor-board,
-in which is cut the entrance way, 4
-inches wide and &#8540; of an inch high. The
-floor-board projects so as to support an
-outer cover of half-inch wood, surmounted
-by a sloping roof. This is an effectual
-protection from the weather, and is necessary when hives are exposed; of course,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_27">- 27 -</span>
-if placed in a bee-house such protection may be dispensed with.
-The outer case is well painted, of a green colour, and when it is used
-the hive may be placed in any part of the garden. The dimensions of
-this hive, with outside cover, are 18 inches square, 2 feet 6 inches high.</p>
-
-<p>Suitable stands are provided, consisting of a stout pedestal with
-four feet. Stakes should be driven into the ground to secure the
-whole against wind. Height from the ground, 4 feet 3 inches.</p>
-
-<p>The bars before alluded to are for the purpose of inducing the
-bees to build parallel combs; for without this, extraction would be
-impossible. It is a great convenience, in many ways, to be able to
-take out a bar of comb, it gives such complete control over the
-hive.</p>
-
-<p>To ensure comb-building on the bars, pieces of clean worker
-comb should always be carefully preserved; and before a swarm is
-put in, either every bar, or if guide comb is not plentiful, every
-other bar should have a piece fixed to it in the following manner:
-cut a piece of clean empty comb of the required size, say two
-inches square, not less; heat a common flat iron, and slightly warm
-the bar with it, then melt a little bees-wax upon it; draw the comb
-quick over the heated iron, hold it down on the centre of the bar,
-giving a very slight movement backwards and forwards, then leave
-it to grow cold; and if cleverly managed, it will be found to be
-firmly attached. Care must be taken that the pitch or inclination
-of the comb be the same as it is in the hives&mdash;upwards from the
-centre of each comb. A new plan has lately been introduced by
-Mr. Woodbury, of Exeter, to facilitate the correct construction of
-parallel combs.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Taylors_Am_Bar_Hive" class="caption3">TAYLOR'S AMATEUR BAR HIVE. No. 4.</p>
-
-<p>Taylor's Amateur Bar Hive is stocked exactly in the same way
-as before described&mdash;viz., by hiving the swarm into the lowest box
-A, as with an ordinary Cottage Hive, and in a fortnight's time the box
-B is placed over it, and the zinc slides withdrawn. After this has
-been given them, and is nearly filled, the super B is raised, and the
-box C is placed between, immediately over the stock box, to induce
-the bees to continue the combs.</p>
-
-<p>This hive consists of three boxes, one above the other, similar to
-the No. 3. The boxes are less in diameter than the foregoing, and have
-seven moveable bars in each. Recent improvements and observations
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_28">- 28 -</span>
-led Mr. Taylor to prefer eight bars, and to have the boxes made a
-little more shallow.</p>
-
-<p>The mode of stocking and management of this hive are the
-same as that last described. There is no outside cover or protection
-from the weather, but the wood is additionally thick and is well
-painted.</p>
-
-<p>We quite concur with Mr. Taylor in recommending a broader
-and shallower hive, and advise intending purchasers to select the
-eight-bar hive in preference.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Neighbors_Im_Cott_Hive" class="caption3">NEIGHBOUR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 5.</p>
-
-<div class="figright" id="page28" style="width: 183px;">
- <img src="images/page28.png" width="183" height="460" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Our "Improved Cottage Hive" is
-neatly made of straw bound with cane, and
-therefore very durable.<a id="FNanchor_3" href="#Footnote_3" class="fnanchor">[3]</a> The lower hive is
-covered with a wooden top having in it
-three holes, through which the bees convey
-their honey into three middle sized bell
-glasses with ventilators, which when filled
-hold about 6 lb. each. There is a hoop at
-the bottom, another round the top of the
-lower hive; to this the wooden crown board
-is fastened. These hoops are a great improvement,
-and are less liable to harbour
-insects than if straw alone were used. The
-floor-board, as its name implies, is a
-wooden board, 1&frac14; inch thick, with a projection
-of 3 or 4 inches under the entrance
-to form an alighting place. This entrance
-is cut out of, or sunk in the board.</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_3" href="#FNanchor_3" class="label">[3]</a> This is the hive referred to by the Bee-Master of the Times, when he
-says:&mdash;"The second kind of hive I alluded to is made of straw, and may be
-purchased at Neighbour's, in Holborn. * * * * It is so well made that it
-will last very long. I have had one in constant use during ten years, and it
-is still as good us when it was bought."</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>There are three windows in the lower
-hive, each closed with a shutter, these
-are very useful and interesting for inspecting
-the progress made. Across the
-centre window is a thermometer, enclosed at the sides by
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_29">- 29 -</span>
-slips of glass. The window shutters being painted green, add
-very much to its appearance. The upper hive, which is merely a cover
-for the glasses, is a conical topped hive, also made of straw bound
-with cane; a hoop is worked into the straw, and made sufficiently
-large to allow the cover to drop over the top hoop of the lower
-hive, keeping the whole close, and preventing wet from drifting in. A
-zinc ventilator, ornamentally painted, forms the apex: this is useful
-in letting the confined hot air pass away in warm weather. The
-ventilator is opened by raising it. The dimensions of the lower or
-stock hive are 15 inches diameter, 9&frac12; inches deep outside, its weight
-when empty 7&frac12; lbs., the cover or top hive is 12 inches deep, and
-15 inches in diameter, the ornamental zinc top being 4 inches deep.
-The whole is about 24 inches high. The weight of a hive packed,
-including glasses, &amp;c., is about 18 lbs.</p>
-
-<p>These hives have a tasteful appearance in the garden, but they
-require some further protection from the weather in the form of a
-cover or of a bee-house&mdash;contrivances that have yet to be described.
-In extreme cold weather, a little additional protection by having
-matting folded round them will be advisable.</p>
-
-<p>One of the advantages this hive has over the common cottage
-hive is that it affords opportunity for the humane management of
-bees. The owner has also the power of taking a glass of honey-comb
-of pure quality, free from the extraneous matter, known as "bee-bread,"
-instead of combs that are darkened by having brood hatched
-in them. By this system, we have combs newly made and used
-only for depositing the honey first put into them, hence the name
-"virgin honey." These glasses have a very pretty appearance,
-and when nicely filled, are very convenient for home use or for
-making presents. The lower hive is the receptacle for the bees;
-when a swarm is placed in this hive, they immediately proceed to
-fill it with combs, in which to store honey for themselves, and for
-cells to breed in. This hive remains undisturbed.</p>
-
-<p>The best mode of tenanting a hive of this description is by
-placing an early and strong swarm in it, which may be generally
-procured of a neighbouring bee-keeper; if from a distance, considerable
-care is necessary to admit plenty of air; the shaking attendant
-upon carriage irritates the bees so much that, if not well ventilated,
-there is danger of the swarm being stifled, and the finer the swarm,
-the greater the danger. For the purpose of ventilation, remove the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_30">- 30 -</span>
-slides and substitute perforated zinc, wrapping the hive up in a
-coarse cloth of open texture (dispensing with the floor-board during
-transit when the distance is great).</p>
-
-<p>It is necessary only to send the lower or stock hive to the party
-furnishing the swarm, taking the precaution to fix the slides at top
-with tacks, as the hive has to be inverted to receive the bees. They
-are shaken into it in the usual manner, as they cluster around the
-branch of the tree or shrub on which they may have chosen to alight.
-After the hiving is accomplished, the hive should be left near to
-catch any stragglers, for there will always be a few; towards
-evening, close the entrance, and remove them to the exact position
-they are intended permanently to occupy. Success depends on this, and
-also on their careful removal on the day or evening of swarming.
-The following morning the bees labour in the new location, marking
-well their habitation before they take flight, and to which they
-will not fail to return loaded with luscious store.</p>
-
-<p>A fortnight must be allowed for filling the stock hive; then,
-if the weather be fine and warm, they will prepare to swarm again,
-as will be indicated by the thermometer rising rapidly to 100
-degrees or upwards; one of the zinc slides on the wooden top
-must now be withdrawn, and a bell glass put on covered and protected
-by the upper hive, the other glasses may then be given
-in the same manner; a day or two after which, should the weather
-continue favourable, all signs of swarming will at once disappear,
-the bees now having increased store room which they will readily
-fill with comb. It is often found useful to attach a piece of
-clean empty honey comb to the ventilating tube of the glass; it is
-an attraction, and induces the bees to commence working in it sooner
-than they otherwise would do. The ventilator should also remain
-open during the day to allow the hot air to pass away from the interior,
-thereby contributing to the whiteness and beauty of the work; the bees
-enjoy the refreshment of coolness thereby afforded, and they work the
-faster for it. At evening all ventilation should be stopped, and the
-glasses wrapped round with flannel or some warm material, for
-the reasons mentioned on <a href="#Page_25">page 25</a>.</p>
-
-<p>The directions for taking honey are also the same as before
-mentioned.</p>
-
-<p>The holes on the wooden top of this hive are of a peaked shape,
-being a preventive against slaughtering any bees whilst pushing the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_31">- 31 -</span>
-slide in for the purpose of removing the glass when full; the tacks
-before alluded to should be removed from the slides when the hive
-is fixed in its place, they are now in the way of cutting off the glass.
-The hive entrance has two slides: the perforated one is but seldom
-required, the bees object to being closely confined, it is only
-necessary when removing, and then for as little time as possible;
-the other slide is very serviceable during the winter months to lessen
-the passage way, thereby preventing the admission of too much cold
-air; it is also occasionally useful on a summer evening, to lessen
-the entrance when moths are troublesome, for if there be only a
-small opening, the bees can guard it, and easily repulse intruders.
-During the time of gathering they require the whole width to remain
-open.</p>
-
-<p>When the weather is so unfavourable as to prevent the bees
-leaving home for a few days after being hived, it will be necessary
-to feed them. Bees should not be fed in the midst of winter; the
-proper time is in the autumn or in the spring.</p>
-
-<p>The best mode of feeding is at the top of the Stock Hive. This
-is done by using the Round Feeder.</p>
-
-<p>The Bottle Feeder may be used instead of the Round Feeder, and
-in the same place, by those who give the preference to that method.</p>
-
-<p>The simplicity and easy management of this hive have deservedly
-rendered it an especial favourite, combining, as it does, real utility
-with many conveniences to satisfy the curious. Not a few bee-keepers
-desire to unite the two qualifications, and no hive combines
-these advantages in a greater degree than "Neighbour's Improved
-Cottage Hive."</p>
-
-
-<p id="Imp_Cott_Hive" class="caption3">IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 6.</p>
-
-<p>The No. 6 hive is of precisely the same size, construction, and
-management as the last mentioned, with the exception that it has no
-windows or thermometer in the lower or stock hive. The apiarian
-with this hive will have to trust more to his own judgment as
-regards the likelihood of swarming, and must watch the appearance
-the bees present at the entrance. When it is time to put on supers
-in order to prevent swarming, premonition will be given by the
-unusual numbers crowding about the entrance, as well as by the
-heat of the weather, making it evident that more room is required
-for the increasing population.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_32">- 32 -</span></p>
-
-<p>Not being able to form an idea of the state of the hive in spring
-and autumn by looking into the stock hive, it will be advisable to
-adopt the means of weighing. A stock at Michaelmas should
-weigh 20 lbs. exclusive of the hive, or be made up to that weight
-by feeding.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Ladies_Obs_Hive" class="caption3">THE LADIES' OBSERVATORY OF CRYSTAL BEE-HIVE. No. 7.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page32" style="width: 186px;">
- <img src="images/page32.png" width="186" height="249" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This engraving illustrates the construction
-of the "Ladies Observatory"
-hive. The stock hive cylindrical with a flat
-top and a hole in the centre; the dimensions
-12&frac12; inches inside, 8&frac12; inches deep,
-the outer cover being raised, and is made
-of stout glass, so as not easily to break.</p>
-
-<p>A support, composed of seven wooden
-bars fixed on a pedestal from the floorboard,
-is very useful for the bees to cling
-to and attach their combs, instead of
-resting wholly against the glass.</p>
-
-<p>The floor-board is of mahogany, the
-border being French polished. A middle sized bell-glass for
-deprivation is placed over the hole; this hole may be closed by a
-zinc slide. A cover of straw, 18 inches deep, 15 inches wide, with
-a zinc ventilating top similar to that affixed to the No. 5 hive,
-completes the arrangements. The weight of the stock hive and
-board is about 16 lbs.</p>
-
-<p>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 insects, as the whole of the
-interior may be exposed to view; it is particularly suitable for a
-window or an indoor apiary, and also will be found a valuable
-addition to the green house. Under these circumstances, the
-entrance-way should be covered with a flat piece of glass, and
-an aperture cut in the sash corresponding with the entrance to the
-hive; through the glazed passage the bees may then find egress and
-ingress without being able to gain access to the apartment; an
-alighting board four inches wide must be fixed outside on a level
-with the entrance.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_33">- 33 -</span></p>
-
-<p>We had a hive of this kind in operation in the Great Exhibitions
-of 1851 and 1862, fixed in the manner above described. It
-answered admirably, and excited much interest and curiosity, though
-placed there under many disadvantages.</p>
-
-<p>When a hive of this kind is to be stocked, procure an early and
-strong swarm, which must be temporarily hived in a common straw
-hive, from which dislodge the bees into the glass hive, but for this
-purpose a little preparation will have to be made. Spread a
-sheet on the ground, place the mahogany floorboard on it with
-the support, put three bricks, or some solid blocks of about the
-same substance, upon which the glass will rest; then with a
-sharp and sudden blow precipitate the swarm out of the straw hive
-on to the floorboard and support, place the glass hive on the bricks,
-and the bees will collect under the bars and on to the pedestal. In
-about one hour's time the whole will have settled quietly, and all
-the stragglers on the board will have collected together, the swarm
-hanging pear-shaped from the bar support; the bricks can now be
-removed, and the glass put in its right place on the floorboard.
-The straw cover being put on the hive, it can be removed to the
-place it is destined permanently to occupy.</p>
-
-<p>The light should not be admitted for some days after hiving;
-if undisturbed, the bees will speedily build comb, working from the
-wooden bars which are placed there for their assistance and support.
-In ten days or a fortnight, if the weather continues fine and warm,
-they will prepare to swarm again; the opening at the top must now
-be unstopped, and the bell-glass put on, guide comb having been
-previously fixed. The directions given for the No. 5, Cottage Hive
-equally apply to the Ladies' Observatory Hive.</p>
-
-<p>It is advisable in winter to furnish the glass stock hive with
-more protection from cold than is afforded by the straw cover
-alone; some thick baize or wrapper of wadding, for which there is
-space between the glass hive and the cover, will prevent so much
-moisture condensing on the sides of the glass. Moisture is injurious,
-causing the combs to grow mouldy; a little protection in the way
-of wrapping very much prevents this.</p>
-
-<p>The hole at top is used for supplying food should the apiarian
-fear the stock of honey is in danger of running short; either the
-bottle feeder, or the round feeder, may be used for the purpose.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_34">- 34 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Cottagers_Hive" class="caption3">COTTAGER'S HIVE, No. 8.</p>
-
-<p class="caption4">FOR TAKING HONEY IN STRAW CAPS WITHOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF THE BEES.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page34" style="width: 202px;">
- <img src="images/page34.png" width="202" height="261" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>A very prevalent opinion exists
-that bees do better in straw than in
-hives made of any other material.
-Another opinion prevails, viz., that
-the old fashioned straw hive is the
-least expensive, the most simple, and
-the most productive. Although we
-cannot go so far as this, 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&mdash;<i>Cottagers</i>.
-By these the more fanciful hives will be instantly
-condemned; besides, the expense puts them quite beyond the
-reach of the poorer class. The object aimed at in planning our
-Cottager's Hive has been to furnish a depriving hive that should be at
-once easy of management, inexpensive, and convenient. The stock
-hive, into which the bees are first hived, is a round straw hive,
-having a flat top with a hole in the centre. The size of this
-lower hive is 7 or 8 inches deep, 14 inches across the bottom,
-finished with a wooden hoop, which adds very much to the firmness
-and durability of the hive. The floorboard is 1&frac14; inch thick, with a
-way sunk therein for the entrance. A small round mat of straw
-closes the hole on the top; this mat may be fixed by wooden
-pegs. We have now described what is termed the <i>stock hive</i>, which
-is, in fact, an old fashioned straw hive adapted, modernised, and
-improved to the more humane, viz., the depriving system. The
-weight of the stock hive with its floorboard is about 7 lbs.</p>
-
-<p>The super or cap hive is about 7 inches deep, 8 inches in
-diameter, and when filled contains about 10 lbs. of honey and
-comb. A glass window which is placed at the side is useful for inspecting
-the progress made in filling it.</p>
-
-<p>A common straw hive, sufficiently deep to cover, drops over the
-super, keeping the window dark and fitting close on to the stock hive.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_35">- 35 -</span>
-This cover hive may be made fast by driving in two skewers, one on
-either side, to keep the whole firm. Unless placed in a bee-house or
-under a shed, the outside should be painted; or a piece of oil-cloth
-or waterproof covering of any kind shaped so as to shoot off the
-rain, will save the trouble of paint, and answer the purpose. If no
-protection of this sort is used, the rain is likely to rot the straw.
-As a covering cottagers often use straight stiff thatching straw sewed
-together; this contrivance is termed a hackle, and has a pretty
-appearance, particularly if a number of hives are in a row. Care has
-to be exercised that mice do not make the covering hive a resting
-place. Mortar is often used for fastening round the hive at the
-bottom; this is a bad plan, as it forms a harbour for insects; the
-wooden hoop fits so close as to leave little necessity for anything of
-the kind.</p>
-
-<p>The principle of the depriving system is so much the same with
-all our hives, that a good deal of repetition is necessary in describing
-in detail the management of each separate variety. The object
-aimed at with the Cottager's Hive, as indeed with all our hives, is
-to provide a compartment for the bees to live in with their queen,
-she being the mother of all. It is intended, by inducing the queen
-to remain in her original apartment, that all breeding should be there
-performed, as well as the storing of bee-bread and honey for the
-winter sustenance of the bees. The cap hive or upper chamber,
-known as the "super," is for the storing of honey which the bee-keeper
-looks upon as a surplus, and which, at the close of the honey
-gathering, or as soon as filled, he intends to deprive the bees of, and
-appropriate to his own use,&mdash;of course taking care to leave sufficient
-in the lower or stock hive for winter sustenance.</p>
-
-<p>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 hive, can make no mistake or find any difficulty in performing
-it. Lest these pages should fall into the hands of persons who are
-not so acquainted, we will refer them to the directions already given.</p>
-
-<p>The hive may be smeared inside with a little honey if at hand;
-but this is unimportant, as a clean hive answers well. Some
-older bee-keepers prefer to give a little dressing to encourage the
-bees to like their new home.</p>
-
-<p>After the swarm has been in the hive two weeks, the straw
-super hive may be put on, first removing the straw mat to give the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_36">- 36 -</span>
-bees access to it. If the hive be a stock, that is a swarm of the
-last or previous years, the super may be put on as soon as the
-weather is fine and warm in May. But much depends on the weather
-and the strength of the hive as regards the time occupied by the
-bees in filling the super; in favourable weather a fortnight suffices.</p>
-
-<p>If, on looking in at the little window, the bee-master sees that
-the cells are scaled over, the cap of honey may be removed in the
-mode already described. The cells near the window are the last to
-be filled, so when they are sealed, it is safe to conclude that the
-combs in the unseen parts are also finished.</p>
-
-<p>Sometimes the queen ascends and deposits her eggs; if, on
-turning up the super, brood be visible, replace the cap for a few
-days, until the young bees quit their cells. When thus emptied,
-honey will be deposited in lieu of the brood.</p>
-
-<p>Suitable pedestals for these hives to stand upon may be obtained.
-It is important that these be firmly fixed, and the hive also made
-fast to the stand, to prevent its being blown over by high winds.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Bar_Frame_Hive" class="caption3">BAR AND FRAME HIVES.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page36" style="width: 201px;">
- <img src="images/page36.png" width="201" height="168" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Mr. Woodbury's Bar and Frame
-Hive, as originally made, consists of a
-wooden box 14&frac12; inches square inside,
-9 inches deep. This is a hive of large
-size, but the actual habitable space
-inside is lessened by the room occupied
-by the frames, of which there are ten;
-these rest on a rabbet a little below the
-surface, leaving a space of &#8540; of an inch between the upper side of the
-bars and the crown board. This allows a free passage on the top for
-the bees, entirely obviating the necessity of making excavations in
-the crown board, as has hitherto been recommended. Each frame
-is &#8542; of an inch wide, and rests in notches, with a space of &frac12; an inch
-between each. The frames extend to within &#8540; of an inch of the
-floorboard, so as to hang without touching any part, leaving about the
-same distance from the sides. It will be seen that there is a free
-passage for the bees on every side, and they are thus kept from
-coming in contact with the sides of the hive. Our engraving shows
-the hive open, and exposes to view the top of the ten bars and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_37">- 37 -</span>
-frames as they range from back to front. A window is also shown;
-this is placed in the engraving over the entrance, but the proper
-position would be just opposite. The drawing is made so as to
-show back and front at once. The floorboard is 1&frac14; inch thick,
-having two "keys" on the underside to prevent warping.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Straw_Hive" class="caption4">STRAW BAR AND FRAME HIVE. No. 45.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page37" style="width: 250px;">
- <img src="images/page37.png" width="250" height="182" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Since the introduction of
-the wood hive by Mr. Woodbury,
-that gentleman has recommended,
-in the <i>Journal of
-Horticulture</i>, that the stock
-hive be made of straw, of
-exactly the same dimensions;
-this material being warmer in
-winter, slightly ventilating,
-and allowing of absorption. Bees during cold weather cluster
-together to generate the requisite degree of heat, the temperature
-of the interior of the hive being thus so much higher than the
-external atmosphere, a good deal of moisture condenses at the
-top and on the sides of the hive; the straw, as before stated,
-prevents this dampness hanging about the hive, and tends to keep
-the inmates more healthy. Dampness in a hive is a fruitful source
-of mischief, causing empty combs to grow mouldy, and is injurious
-in many ways.</p>
-
-<p>The square straw hives, and a machine for making them,
-exhibited in the Austrian department of the International Exhibition
-of 1862, suggested the idea of employing that material for English
-bar and frame hives. We have had made a machine somewhat
-similar to the one exhibited and suited to the size of our hives, by
-which our hive maker is able to manufacture neat square straw
-hives. These have a wood frame at top an inch deep, with the
-requisite notches to allow the ten comb frames to hang. A similar
-frame forms the base, the straw being worked between. The
-floorboard is 1&frac14; inch thick, "keyed" with stout keys as before
-mentioned. An inch projection is left on all sides beyond the
-exterior of the hive, from which it is slightly chamfered down.
-An entrance 4 inches wide is cut out of the substance of
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_38">- 38 -</span>
-the board, beginning at the edge, and continuing on the same level
-until inside the hive, where it slopes upwards. This entrance is
-about &#8540; of an inch high where the hive crosses it.</p>
-
-<p>These straw hives have been generally made without windows;
-as Mr. Woodbury and other scientific apiarians so prefer them.
-They consider that glass windows are unsuited for winter, because
-then moisture condenses on the glass. There is no doubt that the
-having a peep hole or two in a hive adds very agreeably to its value
-for amateur bee-keepers, and to meet the wishes of such, we have
-had straw hives constructed with windows. 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 colony, nor, perhaps, is it advisable to
-be often thus meddling. The windows have also a very neat appearance.
-We have hives with one, and some with two and three
-windows; of course, a little extra expense is incurred where these
-are made; but that is not objected to by those who approve of the
-additional convenience. The crown board (if correct to call a
-straw top by that name) has, like the hive, a frame of wood all
-round, and a square piece of wood in the centre, with a two inch
-hole; this hole is for the purpose of administering food in a mode
-to be explained hereafter. A circular block of wood, 4 inches in
-diameter, closes the opening.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Glass_Hive" class="caption4">GLASS BAR AND FRAME HIVES.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page38" style="width: 220px;">
- <img src="images/page38.png" width="220" height="128" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Some bee-keepers like to be able
-to make a full and daily inspection of
-the hive; we have therefore prepared
-a few hives, constructed of wooden
-frames enclosed on all sides and on
-the top with window glass. The
-dimensions are precisely the same as those before mentioned, and allow
-of the same number of bars and frames (ten). The crown has a
-round hole cut in the glass to admit of feeding. The four sides are
-constructed of double glass, to preserve the bees from variations of
-temperature. We cannot, however, recommend this hive for a winter
-residence for the bees; we should prefer lifting the combs out with
-the bees, and placing them in a straw hive of similar construction,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_39">- 39 -</span>
-to pass through the ordeal of the winter season. A stock of bees
-might be kept through the year in a hive of this kind, but would
-require well wrapping round to keep out the cold. There should be
-a small glass over the hole at top so as to allow the moisture to arise
-and condense, instead of doing so in the hive. The operation of
-exchanging the hive is so easy, that we should be content to place
-a stock in one, say, from April to September, and shift it in the
-autumn. Such a hive is a very pleasing object of interest, as in it
-the whole commonwealth of bees is exposed to view; and the hive
-need not be obscured from daylight, provided it be protected from
-sun and rain. All the external wood-work is of oak colour
-varnished, so that the appearance of the "Glass Bar and Frame
-Hive" is extremely neat and much approved of.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page39a" style="width: 138px;">
- <img src="images/page39a.png" width="138" height="76" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p id="Frame"><span class="smcap">Frame.</span>&mdash;As before mentioned, each stock
-hive has ten of these frames, each 13 inches
-long by 7&frac14; inches high, with a &#8541; inch projection
-at either upper end, which rests in the notch,
-either back or front. The width both of the bar and frame is &#8542; of an
-inch; this is less by &frac14; of an inch than the bar recommended by the
-older apiarians. Mr. Woodbury,&mdash;whose authority on the modern
-plans for keeping bees is of great weight,&mdash;finds the &#8542; of an inch
-bar an improvement, because with them the combs are closer
-together, and require fewer bees to cover the brood. Then, too,
-in the same space that eight old fashioned bars occupied the
-narrower frames admit of an additional bar, so that, by using these,
-increased accommodation is afforded for breeding and the storing of
-honey.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page39b" style="width: 77px;">
- <img src="images/page39b.png" width="77" height="123" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption">Section of bar.</div>
-</div>
-
-<p id="Comb_Bar"><span class="smcap">Improved Comb Bar.</span>&mdash;Mr. Woodbury says that this
-little contrivance has proved very effectual in securing
-straight combs when guide combs are not obtainable.
-The lower angles are rounded off, whilst a central rib is
-added of about &#8539; of an inch in breadth and depth.
-This central rib extends to within &frac12; an inch of each
-end, where it is removed in order to admit of the bar
-fitting into the usual notch. All that is necessary to insure the
-regular formation of combs is, to coat the underneath surface of the
-central rib with melted wax. Mr. Woodbury further says, "my
-practice is to use plain bars whenever guide-combs are attainable, as
-these can be attached with much greater facility to a plain than
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_40">- 40 -</span>
-to a ribbed bar; but whenever I put in a bar without comb, I
-always use one of the improved ones. By this method, crooked
-and irregular combs are altogether unknown in my apiary."</p>
-
-<p>Most of our bars are made with the ridge; but should any of our
-customers prefer the flat ones, we keep a few to supply their
-requirements.</p>
-
-<p>With the moveable "bar and frame hive" every comb is available
-for extraction, and may easily be taken out of the hive; each comb
-being fixed within its frame, there is less disturbance to the bees
-than if the combs were fixed to the sides, as is the case with ordinary
-hives. A strip of wood, about &frac12; an inch wide, rests on the floorboard;
-in this strip are ten notches, made to receive the lower part
-of the frames, so as to retain them in their places at equal distances
-from each other. A difficulty is found with a well stocked hive in
-dropping the frames into the exact notches, so that it is not
-necessary to have these rack works always in use; but when any
-movement of the hive is made, it is essential to have the frames
-firmly fixed by the aid of this contrivance. It is also advisable to
-have the frames perpendicularly supported until the combs are built,
-so in order that the frames should hang true, the hive ought to be
-on the level. A little inclination may be given to it from back to
-front, causing the hive slightly to fall towards the entrance, so as to
-allow the moisture inside the hive, caused by the exhalations of the
-bees, to run off.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page40" style="width: 135px;">
- <img src="images/page40.png" width="135" height="72" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p id="Comp_Bar_frame">"<span class="smcap">Compound Bar Frame.</span>"&mdash;In the <i>Journal
-of Horticulture</i>, Mr. Woodbury thus describes
-the compound bar frame. Being his own
-adaptation, we cannot do better than use his
-own words. "This is a contrivance of my own, which I have
-found very advantageous in enabling me to use frames in stock hives
-and bars in supers, without forfeiting the advantages arising from the
-unlimited interchangeability of every comb in every hive and super
-in the apiary. Its construction will be readily understood by an
-inspection of the annexed sketch, in which the comb bar is shown
-slightly raised from its frame. The bar itself is 13&frac14; inches long by
-&#8542; of an inch wide and &#8540; of an inch thick. When the comb bar is
-in its place, the whole forms a frame 13 inches long by 7&frac14; inches
-high (inside measure), with &#8541; of an inch projection at each end, which
-rests in its appropriate notch in either the back or front of the hive.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_41">- 41 -</span>
-When filled with comb, the bar becomes so firmly cemented to the
-frame as to admit of its being handled with facility." This contrivance
-is, no doubt, very excellent in the hands of Mr. Woodbury;
-but in the hands of the unpractised severe mishaps may arise. In
-warm weather the propolis and wax, with which the bees cement
-the bar to the frame, becomes soft, consequently in handling the
-frames, unless dexterity is used, the comb is likely to drop out. We,
-therefore, recommend that the bar and frame be made both in one:
-greater firmness and simplicity are thereby gained. Some of these
-compound bars and frames are kept in stock at our establishment,
-though they cannot be recommended for general use; but should
-any one prefer them, they can be supplied at the same price as
-the common frames.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page41" style="width: 251px;">
- <img src="images/page41.png" width="251" height="143" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>In describing the stock
-hives of wood, straw, and
-glass, allusion has frequently
-been made to the depriving
-hives, technically called
-"supers." These are also
-made of glass in wood frames,
-13 inches inside, 6 inches deep, with eight bars (without frames).
-The accompanying cut represents the super used with the bar and
-frame hive.</p>
-
-<p>Honey-combs in supers are better when made thicker than those
-for breeding, consequently the bars are placed a little further apart
-than in the lower or stock hive; they are either the "Woodbury
-Ribbed," contrived to induce the straight building of combs, or flat
-bars with guide combs affixed.</p>
-
-<p id="Hive_Cover"><span class="smcap">Cover.</span>&mdash;A loose outer case, forming a complete cover for the hive,
-is found very useful. The case is made in two parts for convenience,
-the roof is also separate, having an acorn at top which forms a neat
-finish. These outside cases are made of wood, and drop lightly over
-all; when thus protected and fixed on a pedestal, the hive may be placed
-in the open air in such position as fancy may dictate. The aspect
-should be south or south-east, and if against a wall, sufficient space
-must be allowed for a free passage behind, as it is from thence all
-operations must be conducted by the apiarian. The case and roof
-with the stand being the only parts exposed to weather, will be the
-only portions that require painting; they are sometimes stained and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_42">- 42 -</span>
-varnished, and we are inclined to
-prefer the latter for appearance.
-Should the apiarian have a complete
-bee-hive house, the cover and
-stands will not be needed.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page42" style="width: 213px;">
- <img src="images/page42.png" width="213" height="299" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>When removing or replacing
-the covers, care should be taken to
-do so very gently, or the bees will
-be enraged and rush out, and may
-inflict stings upon those within their
-reach. The necessity for lifting off
-the cover for the purpose of looking
-in, either at the window of the
-stock hive or of the super, we have
-obviated by making a door both
-in the upper and lower parts of the outside case. These doors, or
-unglazed windows, are hinged at the bottom so as to open downwards,
-rendering inspection easy without disturbance to the bees.</p>
-
-<p>A wooden range for supporting a number of hives makes a safe
-and economical stand; it may be formed by driving firmly into the
-ground two rows of posts, each row about 13 inches apart; to these
-two rails about 2 inches square are nailed, and upon these the hives
-firmly rest. Care should be taken not to have the hives nearer together
-than 18 inches; the intermediate space will be found very convenient
-on which to rest the cover, or for supporting an empty hive during
-the proper performance of any operation.</p>
-
-<p>Mr. Woodbury has his hives arranged on rails, somewhat after
-the plan before described.</p>
-
-<p>In describing as above the various hives and frames, some hints
-have been given as to the methods of handling them. This, however,
-will not suffice for an induction to the mysteries of practical
-bee-keeping; and we must refer the reader to a subsequent section,
-wherein the details as to manipulation will be fully explained, and
-the results of the experience of several distinguished apiarians will
-be embodied.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_43">- 43 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Taylors_Imp_Hive" class="caption3">TAYLOR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. No. 14.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page43a" style="width: 186px;">
- <img src="images/page43a.png" width="186" height="269" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>No. 14 hive is similar in principle to
-No. 8. It is also similar in size, with
-the exception of being quite straight at
-the sides. A zinc rim affords protection
-from the weather. Under
-the upper straw hive a bell glass is
-worked. A mahogany adapting board,
-with a 4 inch hole in the centre corresponding
-with that of the hive, supplies
-an even surface for the glass to
-rest on, and facilitates its removal when
-full. For particulars for stocking and
-management see directions for No. 8
-and No. 5 hives.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Eight_Bar_Hive" class="caption3">EIGHT-BAR STRAW HIVE. No. 18.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page43b" style="width: 168px;">
- <img src="images/page43b.png" width="168" height="243" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This is an ingenious contrivance of
-Mr. Taylor's. Hoops are worked in the
-straw, both at top and bottom of the stock
-hive, and in the upper hoop are openings
-cut to receive eight comb bars; each bar
-is 1&frac14; of an inch wide, with a space of h an
-inch between. Since the introduction of
-square straw bar and frame hives, these
-have not been much in request. Considerable
-inconvenience is found with this
-hive, because the bars being of unequal
-lengths they cannot be interchanged one
-with the other.</p>
-
-<p>The description given of No. 3 hive, and mode of stocking and
-furnishing it with guide comb, apply to this hive. The large straw
-hive raised up in the engraving is an outside case; the roof is a
-large zinc cover. If placed in a bee-house, the outside case and
-zinc roof are not required.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_44">- 44 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Neighbors_Uni_Hive" class="caption3">NEIGHBOUR'S UNICOMB OBSERVATORY HIVE. No. 20.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page44" style="width: 265px;">
- <img src="images/page44.png" width="265" height="184" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>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
-insects. It is particularly
-intended for a window recess
-or an indoor apiary; and will
-also be found an interesting addition to the green house. An aperture
-should be cut in the sash corresponding with the entrance to the
-hive, through which the bees may find egress and ingress, without
-being able to gain access to the apartment, as on the plan in the
-case of the Ladies' Observatory Hive.</p>
-
-<p>The Unicomb Hive is constructed of so narrow a width between
-thin plates of glass that it admits of one comb only to be built, and at
-the same time leaves space between the comb and the glass on either
-side for the bees to pass and repass. It is thus made so that every
-bee may be exposed to view. The queen forming the most prominent
-feature of attention, she is readily distinguished by the greater
-length of her body, as well as by the attention paid to her by the
-other bees.</p>
-
-<p>The mode of stocking this hive is as follows:&mdash;procure a strong
-swarm if practicable, and let it be first hived into a common straw
-hive in the usual way. Take care to make the necessary preparations
-previous to the operation of stocking; for this purpose first unscrew
-the top and take out the bar intended for the foundation of the
-comb. A sort of wooden trough, contrived to act as a funnel, is
-provided with this hive. It is in separate pieces, so as to be packed
-conveniently, and requires screwing together. The funnel must now
-be attached to the hive, and care be taken that it is quite firmly
-fixed&mdash;the metal plates are attached for this purpose. Having
-made these preparations at dusk, dash the bees out on to a cloth
-or sheet spread on the ground, place four pieces of wood so as to
-raise the hive a little from the cloth; then invert the hive so
-as to have the funnel downwards, placing it over the bees, and
-letting it rest on the four pieces of wood just named. In a short
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_45">- 45 -</span>
-time (say half an hour or an hour) the bees will ascend into the
-hive; they will go up more quickly if occasionally stirred with the
-feather of a goose quill.</p>
-
-<p>When the bees have ascended into the hive, take off the funnel,
-replace the bar, screw on the top board, take it to the place intended
-for it permanently to occupy, and which has been prepared for it.
-It will be as well to screen the hive from view for a few days until the
-bees become settled in their new domicile. Although this hive is constructed
-of double glass to keep up a more uniform degree of warmth,
-still from the cold nature of glass and the close contact into which
-the bees are brought with it, it is advisable to place flannel between
-the outer shutters and the glass of the hive on both sides; this is found
-essential in winter, and very much adds to the comfort of the bees if
-placed so every cold night during most of the year. In the day time
-in summer months with the hive being of double glass the whole may be
-fully exposed to view. If the temperature of the apartment in which
-the hive stands be kept at 60 degrees, this extra attention will not
-be so needful. Bees cease to appear disturbed when the exposure
-to light is continuous. As soon as the bees are settled, comb
-building will immediately commence, and in about two weeks'
-time there will be one comb spreading over the whole hive. The
-queen may be viewed depositing her eggs, and all the usual
-operations of the rearing of brood, storing of honey, and the
-building of combs, will be open to full inspection, with perfect ease
-to the spectator. As an object of lively and permanent interest for the
-breakfast parlour or conservatory, the "Unicomb Observatory Hive"
-may be regarded as infinitely superior to an Aquarium or Fernery.</p>
-
-<p>At the Exposition Universelle of 1855 in Paris, we exhibited a hive
-of this description in full working order. The bees left London on the
-5th of July of that year, and were placed in the Exposition on the
-following morning. An entrance was made for them through the
-side of the building, as before explained. Our bees had no national
-antipathies, and they immediately sallied forth to their "fresh fields
-and pastures new" in the Champs Elys&eacute;es, the gardens of the
-Tuileries, the Luxembourg, &amp;c., whence they soon returned laden
-with luscious store from French flowers.</p>
-
-<p>The Jurors of the Exposition awarded us a Prize Medal for
-bee-hives.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_46">- 46 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="Woodbury_Uni_Hive">WOODBURY UNICOMB HIVE.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page46" style="width: 354px;">
- <img src="images/page46.png" width="354" height="275" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>The "Woodbury Unicomb Hive" has many advantages over
-hives of this kind as previously constructed. The engraving shows
-the interior compartment divided into six; these are six Woodbury
-frames. The inner sash opens to admit of hanging up the frames
-on the notches prepared for them. 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 repass,
-the same as in Neighbour's Unicomb. There is, however, a great
-advantage in the use of this hive; with it, any one possessing a
-Woodbury box or straw bar and frame hive can readily commence
-a Unicomb, and as readily put the combs and bees back into the
-square hive again. The outside shutters on either side are composed
-of Venetian blinds admitting daylight, but obscuring the rays of
-the sun. We had the entrance made at one end, as represented
-in our drawing; this alteration was made after the pattern of
-the hive from which Mr. Woodbury allowed us to copy. His own
-was intended to stand wholly out of doors, and had two central
-entrances, one on either side at the bottom, the hive itself turning
-on a pivot.</p>
-
-<p>When the hive was being examined on one side, the entrance
-was closed by a piece of wood inserted in it, and when the other
-side was brought round to be inspected, the piece of wood withdrawn
-and placed in the opposite entrance. This was a most ingenious
-contrivance; but it did not answer our purpose for indoors. When
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_47">- 47 -</span>
-Mr. Woodbury sent us his hive, we were preparing for the
-International Exhibition of 1862, and in placing it against the
-sides of the building, we followed our old plan for ingress by
-having the entrance at the end. Since that time we have made
-a considerable improvement by adapting Mr. Woodbury's cleverly
-contrived turn-table to suit our own hive. Like Mr. Woodbury's
-hive, ours has two iron wheels, the one fixed to the bottom of the
-hive, the other fixed to a stout board running the full length of the
-hive; on these two wheels the whole hive turns. In the centre
-there is an opening into the hive, with a passage-way running
-underneath, so that the bees' entrance is in no way affected by the
-position of the hive, which revolves to suit the convenience of
-visitors inspecting it. Should the queen with her attendants not be
-visible on one side, the other side of the comb can be brought into
-full view, and examined with the same facility as a picture, or as
-articles are inspected in a shop window. Thus, in the Unicomb
-Observatory Hive, the sovereign mother, her train of servitors, the
-drones with their aimless movements, and the crowd of ever busy
-workers&mdash;either building their combs or storing honey&mdash;may be
-always seen as presenting a veritable "Tableau vivant."</p>
-
-<p>Another improvement that we have made upon Mr. Woodbury's
-pattern is that of accommodating the frames; his was constructed
-before frame hives were in use, consequently it is only suitable for
-combs on bars. Our adaptation has necessitated an increase in
-size. The dimensions are nearly 3 feet square and 7 inches deep
-from back to front. Provision is made at top for feeding and for
-working two small flat top glasses for deprivation, which are
-protected by the weather board.</p>
-
-<p>An alighting board is placed at the centre, close under the
-entrance, when the hive is located out of doors. When the hive
-is placed indoors, a passage-way about 18 inches long, covered with
-glass, is fixed to the entrance, the other end communicating with
-an opening in the wall or sash; through this the bees find access,
-an alighting board being fixed outside the building. It is requisite
-that the passage-way be about this length, in order to allow of the
-hive turning round clear of the side of the building.</p>
-
-<p>In the summer of 1863 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 Exeter. We selected six
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_48">- 48 -</span>
-combs, and packed them in one of the square box "Woodbury
-bar and frame" hives, and on arrival at Exeter, Mr. Woodbury
-assisted us in taking out the frames and placing them in the
-Unicomb. That being fixed against the boarded side of a shed,
-we found the covered way a great convenience, and it answered
-remarkably well; the bees did not seem to be inconvenienced by
-having to travel through so long a passage. A glass covering admitted
-a full view of the little labourers as they crowded in, and the
-sight of them very much enhanced the interest of visitors examining
-the hive.<a id="FNanchor_4" href="#Footnote_4" class="fnanchor">[4]</a></p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_4" href="#FNanchor_4" class="label">[4]</a> It may require explanation how it was that we took bees to Exeter, which
-sounds something like "carrying coals to Newcastle." The reason was this&mdash;the
-garden of our friend, Mr. Woodbury, at Mount Radford, from which we
-could have been supplied, was so near to the show yard that he was apprehensive
-a large number of the bees would return to their old hives. Our bees
-from a distance would, according to their nature, return to their own hive, for
-bees although they may be moved miles away, take care to mark their new
-position, and are careful to return to it. Mr. Woodbury lent us a small stock
-of his Ligurian bees, and between it and our own hive the crowd of visitors
-divided their attention.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>Since the time before mentioned, we have exhibited bees at the
-meetings of the Bath and West of England Agricultural Society at
-Bristol, and of the Royal Agricultural Society at Newcastle in 1864.
-On both occasions further proof was given that this hive admirably
-answers the purpose intended, and it afforded pleasure and interest
-to many thousands of visitors.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Mode of Stocking.</span>&mdash;The Unicomb hive may be stocked in
-two ways, which have been previously referred to. The bee-keeper
-may either select the comb upon which the queen is found and put
-it into the hive, and so form an artificial swarm; or he may take
-six brood-combs from a hive, and so stock the "Unicomb" at once,
-which we did for the show at Exeter.</p>
-
-<p>The former plan is, perhaps, the most advisable, because new
-comb has to be built within the five frames; for, be it remembered,
-in this case five empty frames must be put in. 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 therein. The
-combs are sure to be dark in colour when taken from a stock hive;
-and new combs being whiter have a better appearance in the hive.
-The comb upon which the queen was introduced may be taken away
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_49">- 49 -</span>
-after the artificial swarm has made combs within some of the other
-five frames; when the queen is on one of the new combs, opportunity
-may easily be taken for opening the hive and removing the
-old dark comb. The bees can easily be shaken or brushed off the
-comb, and will return to the hive. The comb with the unhatched
-brood may be deposited in any square hive that needs strengthening.
-We mention this to show how to obtain a hive with entirely fine
-white comb.</p>
-
-<p>If the possessor of a square Woodbury frame-hive wishes to
-start a strong Unicomb hive, and does not object to appropriate
-the stock, he must take out of the Woodbury hive any six combs
-on the frames, and put the Unicomb in its place so as to receive
-all the returning bees that happen to be abroad; the remaining
-four combs, supposing there are ten, may be inserted in any other
-frame hives in the garden in which are vacancies for them.</p>
-
-<p>We have had this hive in operation, in the manner last described,
-during the summer of 1863, and found it to answer remarkably well.
-On a lawn, placed on a suitable ornamental stand, it formed a
-pleasing object, besides affording great interest and instruction.</p>
-
-<p>In Unicomb hives stocked with a natural swarm (as is generally
-the plan), there is considerable difficulty in keeping the bees alive
-through the winter. In a hive where the combs are removeable, no
-loss of bees need be occasioned. We do not recommend the hive
-we are now describing as a winter residence for bees. For four
-months in the year, when bees are most active and when their
-operations are most interesting, this hive may be brought into use,
-either of the two plans before described being adopted. An artificial
-swarm should be put in during May or June, and taken out, in
-the method before mentioned, and then placed in the square box
-during the month of September; sometimes it may do for a stock
-to be put in a month or so earlier, but should never be retained
-later in this hive. In October we often have cold nights; the bees
-and brood being in such close contact with the glass, and not able
-to cluster as is their natural wont, suffer from exposure to the
-variations of temperature. In some degree to moderate this. Me
-have used treble glass with a space between each square; greater
-warmth is thus attained, and the view is not intercepted. Opportunity
-should be taken for cleaning the Unicomb hive when empty,
-so as to be ready for re-stocking as a new hive in the following
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_50">- 50 -</span>
-summer. The "Unicomb Observatory" hive is one which might
-have been suggested by the lines of Evans:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">By this blest art our ravished eyes behold</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The singing masons build their roofs of gold.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And mingling multitudes perplex the view,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Yet all in order apt their tasks pursue;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Still happier they whose favoured ken hath seen</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Pace slow and silent round, the state's fair queen.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="HUBERS_HIVE" class="caption3">HUBER'S HIVE. No. 19.</p>
-
-<p>To <span class="smcap">Francis Huber</span>&mdash;not improperly styled the "Prince of
-Apiarians,"&mdash;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 <span class="smcap">Aristotle</span>.</p>
-
-<p>During the early period of Huber's investigations, he prosecuted
-them by means of single comb hives which allow of each side of the
-comb being examined. He found, however, that these had one
-important defect. The bees could not in these hives cluster
-together, which is their natural method of withstanding the effects
-of a reduced temperature. Huber hit upon the ingenious expedient
-of combining a number of single comb frames so as to form one
-complete hive, which could be opened in order to expose any particular
-comb, without disturbing the rest. From the manner of the
-opening and closing of this hive, it has generally been called the
-"Leaf or Book Hive." The division separating each comb is
-joined both back and front with "butt hinges," fastened with a
-moveable pin, on withdrawing which, at either side, each comb and
-the bees on it may be inspected as easily as if in a single comb hive.
-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 together. The floorboard on which the hive stands is larger
-than the hive when closed, so as to allow of its being opened freely
-at any particular "volume." An entrance way for the bees is
-hollowed out of the floorboard as in other hives. There is a
-glass window in each end of the hive, which is provided with a
-shutter.</p>
-
-<p>There is, however, one serious objection to Huber's hive, which,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_51">- 51 -</span>
-though not noticed by him or his careful assistant, has prevented its
-general use. That is, the difficulty there is in closing it without
-crushing some of the bees, a catastrophe which, by exasperating
-their comrades, is certain to interfere with any experiments. There
-is no such risk in the Bar and Frame Hive, whilst in it every
-facility possessed by Huber's is retained; so that we strongly
-recommend scientific apiarians, in preference to Huber's, that they
-should use some kind of Bar and Frame Hive. We have here
-introduced a description of Huber's Leaf Hive (and should be glad
-to exhibit one) for the sake of its historic interest in connection
-with apiarian science. The invention was invaluable for Huber
-himself, and it suggested to other apiarians the adoption of the
-present plan of vertical bars and frames.</p>
-
-<p>The character of Huber, and the circumstances under which he
-pursued his observations, are so remarkable, that we need scarcely
-apologize for stating a few particulars respecting him here. He
-was born at Geneva in July, 1750, his family being in honourable
-station and noted for talent. Just as he attained to manhood he
-lost his sight, and remained blind to the end of his days. This
-apparently insuperable obstacle in the way of scientific observation,
-was overcome by the remarkable fidelity with which Burnens, his
-assistant, watched the bees, and reported their movements to Huber,
-Madame Huber also who, although betrothed to him before his
-calamity, had remained constant in her affection, assisted in the
-investigations with great assiduity during their long and happy
-wedded life. We quote the following from "Memoirs of Huber,"
-by Professor de Candolle:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>"We have seen the blind shine as poets, and distinguish themselves
-as philosophers, musicians, and calculators; but it was
-reserved for Huber to give a lustre to his class in the sciences of
-observation, and on objects so minute that the most clear-sighted
-observer can scarcely perceive them. The reading of the works of
-Reaumur and Bonnet, and the conversation of the latter, directed
-his curiosity to the history of bees. His habitual residence in the
-country inspired him with the desire, first of verifying some
-facts, then of filling some blanks in their history; but this kind of
-observation required not only the use of such an instrument as the
-optician must furnish, but an intelligent assistant, who alone could
-adjust it to its use. He had then a servant named Francis Burnens,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_52">- 52 -</span>
-remarkable for his sagacity and for the devotion he bore for his
-master. Huber practiced him in the art of observation, directed
-him to his researches by questions adroitly combined, and aided by
-the recollections of his youth, and by the testimonies of his wife
-and friends, he rectified the assertions of his assistant, and became
-enabled to form in his own mind a true and perfect image of the
-manifest facts. 'I am much more certain,' said he, smiling, to a
-scientific friend, 'of what I state than you are, for you publish
-what your own eyes only have seen, while I take the mean among
-many witnesses.' This is, doubtless, very plausible reasoning, but
-very few persons will by it be rendered distrustful of their own
-eyesight."</p>
-
-<p>The results of Huber's observations were published in 1792, in
-the form of letters to Ch. Bonnet, under the title of "Nouvelles
-Observation sur les Abeilles." This work made a strong impression
-upon many naturalists, not only because of the novelty of the facts
-stated, and the excellent inductive reasoning employed, but also on
-account of the rigorous accuracy of the observations recorded, when
-it was considered with what an extraordinary difficulty the author
-had to struggle.</p>
-
-<p>Huber retained the clear faculties of his observant mind until
-his death, which took place on the 22nd of December, 1831. Most
-of the facts relating to the impregnation of the queen, the formation
-of cells, and the whole economy of the bee-community as discovered
-and described by Huber, have received full confirmation from the
-investigations of succeeding naturalists.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page52" style="width: 126px;">
- <img src="images/page52.png" width="126" height="53" alt="" />
-</div>
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_53">- 53 -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="III_EXTERIOR_ARRANGEMENTS_AND_APPARATUS">III. EXTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS AND APPARATUS.</h2>
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="BEE-HOUSE_TWO_HIVES" class="caption3">BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN TWO HIVES. No. 39.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page53a" style="width: 283px;">
- <img src="images/page53a.png" width="283" height="196" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption"><p>Front View of Bee-House.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p>There is no contrivance
-for protecting hives from
-the weather so complete as
-a bee-house one, which also
-admits of an easy inspection
-of the hives ranged
-therein. This arrangement
-is especially convenient for
-lady bee-keepers.</p>
-
-<p>The folding doors behind
-the bee-house have
-only to be opened, and the
-hives are at once exposed to full view. If the cover of the bee-hive
-be lifted as well as the shutters opened, the hives and the
-glasses may be deliberately inspected, without any danger of
-molestation from the bees. Thus the progress made by the busy
-multitude in building and filling their combs may be watched by
-the bee-keeper, from day to day with great and increasing interest.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page53b" style="width: 341px;">
- <img src="images/page53b.png" width="341" height="257" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption"><p>Back View of the Interior.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p>Here our engraving
-shows the
-back view of the
-bee-house, the interior
-being furnished
-with two of
-our 'No. 5 cottage
-hives. Two suspended
-weights
-will be noticed;
-these are to balance
-the top hives
-which cover the
-glasses; the cord
-for each, runs on pulleys, so that the covers can be easily raised and as
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_54">- 54 -</span>
-easily shut down again when the inspection is finished. We may here
-remark, that it is not well to keep the glasses long exposed to full
-light and view.</p>
-
-<p>The front of the bee-house being closely boarded, a passage way
-is contrived for the bees by which they have egress and ingress,
-without being able to gain access to the house. The hives must be
-kept close to the front boarding of the house, so as to prevent
-the opening of any crevices which the bees might mistake for the
-entrance to their hives, and so find their way into the house. The
-front view of this bee-house shows the ordinary contrivance for
-entrance; the sliding zinc entrances may also be advantageously
-fixed as shown in the engraving of a "Bee-house to contain twelve
-hives." In many parts of the country, hives and honey are sometimes
-stolen from the garden; the bee-houses we furnish have a
-lock and key to prevent depredations of this kind.</p>
-
-<p>Care must be taken to keep the bee-houses free from spiders
-and other insects. In some districts ants are numerous and troublesome.
-The plan we recommend for excluding them is to put some
-pitch round the four supports of the bee-house; or, better still, strips
-of loose flannel or other woollen material that is absorbent, which have
-previously been soaked in lamp-oil. We use sperm oil, being the
-slowest drying oil we know of. A piece of string will keep the flannel
-close to the wood, and then neither ant or any other insect will
-pass up; so that by this simple means the hives may, so to speak,
-be insulated and placed beyond their reach. As the oil dries up it
-can easily be renewed. We have found this an effectual remedy
-against these insidious enemies of bees.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page54" style="width: 113px;">
- <img src="images/page54.png" width="113" height="44" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_55">- 55 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="BEE-HOUSE_TWELVE_HIVES" class="caption3">BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN TWELVE HIVES. No. 40.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page55" style="width: 438px;">
- <img src="images/page55.png" width="438" height="487" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption"><p>Back View of the above, showing the Interior.</p></div>
-</div>
-
-<p>Where economy of room is a consideration, we fit up bee-houses
-with a double row of hives, one above the other. Our engravings
-show the back and front of a house of this kind, having an
-ornamental zinc gutter to prevent the wet from dripping on to the
-alighting board.</p>
-
-<p>When a number of hives are thus together, we colour the
-alighting boards differently, so that bees may have a distinctive
-mark by which each may know its own home, and not wander
-into its neighbour's house. Bees readily enough receive a honey
-laden labourer into a hive; but if the wanderer be poor and empty,
-he will be promptly repulsed, and may have to forfeit his life for
-his mistake. Queens returning from their wedding trip, are liable
-to mistake their hive if all the entrances are so much alike that a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_56">- 56 -</span>
-noticeable difference is not easily apparent. A queen entering a hive
-already supplied with a fruitful sovereign would be certain to be
-killed. The loss to the hive to which the queen belonged is a
-most serious one. Hives are often made queenless from this cause,
-and thereby reduced to utter ruin; the bee-master perhaps
-attributing his loss to something altogether different.</p>
-
-
-<p id="BEE-HOUSE_NINE_HIVES" class="caption3">BEE-HOUSE TO CONTAIN NINE HIVES. No. 41.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page56" style="width: 281px;">
- <img src="images/page56.png" width="281" height="224" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This engraving represents
-a bee-house adapted
-for having a number of
-hives in a limited space.
-Three rows of hives, one
-above the other.</p>
-
-<p>We do not recommend
-a bee-house of this construction;
-it is difficult to
-erect one to afford space
-for super hives, without it
-being so inconveniently high as to be liable to be blown over by
-strong winds.</p>
-
-<p>Hives thus located in a bee-house are not exposed to so much
-change of temperature and the stocks generally pass the winter well.
-Here we may introduce the meditations of a German apiarian,
-as he describes the advantages of a bee-house for the bees, and his
-own pleasure in watching over his pets in the winter, as they dwell
-so comfortably and safely. It is true that Heer Braun associates
-still choicer delights with the simple pleasures of bee-keeping, but
-as Mr. Woodbury has not excluded the higher theme from his
-translation, we need not hesitate to quote the whole:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p id="EVENING_THOUGHTS_IN_JANUARY" class="caption3">EVENING THOUGHTS IN JANUARY.</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">(<i>Translated from the German of</i> <span class="smcap">Adalbert Braun</span>.)</p>
-
-<p class="tdc"><span class="smcap">By "A Devonshire Bee-keeper."</span></p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Within my little garden</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Stands also a bee-house,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And bees therein protected</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">From sly tomtit or mouse.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">How quietly they're sitting!</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">And little trouble give,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Beyond the needful watching,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">How undisturb'd they live;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_57">- 57 -</span>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">That all, indeed, are living</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">In strong unbroken health,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And, in the brood-nest hanging,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Consume their hoarded wealth&mdash;</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">That in the dwindling store-room</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Sufficient stores remain,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Until the rape-plant donneth</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Its blossom dress again.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Thus daily do I visit</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">My garden and my bees,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Neglecting thereby often</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">My dinner and my ease.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Thank God! they all were humming</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Within their hives to-day;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Nor could I find a symptom</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Of hunger or decay.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">And yet what ardent longing</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">I feel, O Spring, for thee!</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">My darlings' gleesome frolics</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Are happiness to me!</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">How would this anxious longing</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Consume my very breast,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">But for a little being</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">So full of love and jest.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">In heat or cold who prattles</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Around me ev'ry day,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And stills the throes of longing</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">By commune blithe and gay.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Ye bee-keepers can value</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">A joy that is complete;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">It is my wife&mdash;the darling&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Whose lips are honey-sweet.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">With e'en the richest bee-stand</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Were joy and pleasure gone,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">If my heart's queen were wanting</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">And I left here alone.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Thus her I love and honour.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">No difference have we,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">But oft-times go together,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Our little pets to see.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Her kisses sweet removing</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">All sorrow from my breast,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And honied joys surrounding</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Proclaim us highly blest.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class="tdc"><span class="smcap">T. W. Woodbury</span>, <i>Mount Radford, Exeter</i>.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page57" style="width: 107px;">
- <img src="images/page57.png" width="107" height="109" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_58">- 58 -</span></p>
-
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page58a" style="width: 480px;">
- <img src="images/page58a.png" width="480" height="353" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption"><span class="smcap">Exterior of an Apiary.</span><br />
- As originally erected in the Zoological Gardens, Regents Park.</div>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page58b" style="width: 488px;">
- <img src="images/page58b.png" width="488" height="383" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption"><span class="smcap">Interior of the above.</span><br/>
- May be taken as suggestive for the construction or appropriation of rooms
- for larger Apiaries in summer houses or other outbuildings.</div>
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_59">- 59 -</span></p>
-
-<div class="figright" id="page59a" style="width: 162px;">
- <img src="images/page59a.png" width="162" height="274" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="ZINC_COVER" class="pmt4 caption3">ZINC COVER. No. 37.</p>
-
-<p>This is a simple and inexpensive covering
-for a No. 5, or other cottage straw hive
-when exposed in the garden. It fits close
-on to the upper hive, coming sufficiently
-low to protect from the sun and rain,
-without obscuring the whole hive.</p>
-
-<p class="pmb4">These covers are painted green, that
-colour being generally preferred.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page59b" style="width: 195px;">
- <img src="images/page59b.png" width="195" height="392" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="ORN_ZINC_COVER" class="caption3">ORNAMENTAL ZINC COVER. No. 38.</p>
-
-<p>The annexed engraving of the
-Ornamental Zinc Cover renders but
-little description necessary. The illustration
-shows one of our No. 5
-improved cottage hives on a stand.
-Three clumps of wood must be driven
-into the ground, and the three iron
-rods supporting the covering made
-fast to them with screws. There are
-screw holes in the feet of the iron rods
-for the purpose; when thus secured,
-but little fear need be entertained of
-its being blown over by high winds.</p>
-
-<p>In the roof two pulleys are fixed,
-so that by attaching a cord, the upper
-hive covering the bell glass supers
-may be raised with facility for the
-purpose of observing the progress
-made by the bees.</p>
-
-<p class="pmb2">The Ornamental Zinc Cover will form a pleasing object in the
-flower garden when placed in a suitable position on the grass plot.
-It is painted green; the iron rods are of such a length as to
-support the roof at a convenient height from the ground.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_60">- 60 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="COVER_OF_ZINC" class="caption3">COVER OF ZINC. No. 29.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page60a" style="width: 160px;">
- <img src="images/page60a.png" width="160" height="71" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p class="pmb2">This zinc cover introduced by H. Taylor,
-Esq., for his cottage hive (No. 14) will also
-be found useful as a protection from wet for
-many other descriptions of round straw hives.</p>
-
-
-<p id="BELL_GLASSES" class="caption3">BELL GLASSES.</p>
-
-<table summary="Glasses">
-<tr>
- <td>
-<div class="figcenter" id="page60b" style="width: 101px;">
- <img src="images/page60b.png" width="101" height="126" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption">25.</div>
-</div>
- </td><td>
-<div class="figcenter" id="page60c" style="width: 84px;">
- <img src="images/page60c.png" width="84" height="102" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption">26.</div>
-</div>
- </td><td>
-<div class="figcenter" id="page60d" style="width: 90px;">
- <img src="images/page60d.png" width="90" height="89" alt="" />
- <div class="figcaption">27.</div>
-</div>
- </td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p>25. To contain 10 lbs., 10 inches high, 7 inches wide.</p>
-
-<p>26. To contain 6 lbs., 7 inches high, 5&frac12; inches wide.</p>
-
-<p>27. To contain 3 lbs., 5 inches high, 4 inches wide.</p>
-
-<p>These bell glasses are used in the hives before described.
-No. 25 is for Nutt's Hive (No. 1); No. 26 is for our Improved
-Cottage Hive (No. 5); No. 27 is a very small glass, one that is
-not often used, and which we do not recommend. Bees will
-generally fill a middle sized glass quite as soon as one so small
-as this.</p>
-
-
-<p id="TAYLORS_GLASS" class="caption3">BELL GLASSES. No. 24.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page60e" style="width: 247px;">
- <img src="images/page60e.png" width="247" height="110" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>These glasses have been
-introduced by Mr. Taylor,
-and are recommended as preferable
-to deep narrow glasses.</p>
-
-<p>The drawings will show
-that they are straight at the
-sides, flat at the top inside, with a knob outside to take hold by,
-through which is an &frac12; inch opening to admit a ventilating tube.</p>
-
-<p>The larger is 6 inches deep, 12 inches wide; smaller 5 inches
-deep, 9&frac12; inches wide.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_61">- 61 -</span></p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page61a" style="width: 99px;">
- <img src="images/page61a.png" width="99" height="89" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p id="PAYNES_GLASS">The late Mr. J. H. Payne, of Bury, author of the
-"Bee-keeper's Guide," introduced another glass. It
-has a 3 inch hole in the centre, the purpose of which is
-to tempt bees to produce additional and larger stores
-of honey. It is to be used as follows:&mdash;when a bell
-glass is half or quite filled, raise it, and place the
-Payne's glass over the hole of the stock hive, with the filled glass
-on it over the 3 inch hole. The bees will bring their combs
-through, and thus Mr. Payne found that they would store more
-honey than if the bell glass were removed and another empty one
-put in its place. Of course the first glass must be smaller in
-diameter than the Payne's glass, so as to rest upon it.</p>
-
-
-<p id="BELL_GLASS_W_LID" class="caption3">BELL GLASS. No. 28.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page61b" style="width: 99px;">
- <img src="images/page61b.png" width="99" height="118" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This is a glass super to be placed on the hive in
-a similar way to the bell glasses already alluded to.
-It has the advantages of being straight at the sides,
-flat at top, and without a knob; so that when filled
-it may be brought on to the breakfast table, inverted,
-on a plate. The glass lid shown in the engraving
-forms a cover, and fits over outside, so as not to interfere with the
-combs within. These flat top glasses, like those with a knob, have
-a hole through which a zinc ventilating tube is inserted.</p>
-
-
-<p id="GUIDE_COMB_FOR_GLASSES" class="caption3">GUIDE COMB FOR GLASSES.</p>
-
-<p>In some of our previous allusions to the best mode of inducing
-bees to commence working in glasses, we have recommended
-attaching guide comb. We will now more particularly explain
-how this attraction can be best applied. We have already shown
-how bees may be induced to make use of guide combs fixed to bars,
-and the same principle is applicable to glasses. These may be
-filled with great regularity by adopting the following directions,
-which we believe have never before appeared in print:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>Procure a piece of clean new empty worker honey-comb
-which has not had honey in it (because honey will prevent
-adhesion to the glass); cut it up into pieces of about three
-quarters of an inch square. Gently warm the exterior of the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_62">- 62 -</span>
-glass; this we find is best done by holding the glass horizontally for a short
-time over the flame of a candle; then apply one of the pieces
-of empty comb inside at the part warmed, taking care in fixing
-it that the pitch or inclination of the cells is upwards&mdash;in fact, place
-the guide comb in the same relative position that it occupied in the
-hive or glass from which it was taken. There is some danger of
-making the glass too warm, which will cause the comb to melt, and
-the wax to run down the side, leaving an unsightly appearance on
-the glass; this should be carefully avoided, 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 melted.
-It is hardly necessary to state that only the very whitest combs
-ought to be used. A short time should be allowed before changing
-the position of the glass, so that it may cool sufficiently to hold the
-comb in its place. Six or eight pieces may thus be fixed, so that
-when the glass is filled, it will present a star shape, all
-the combs radiating from the centre. The annexed
-engraving shows the appearance of a glass as worked
-by the bees, in which guide combs were fixed in the
-manner described above. The drawing was taken from
-a glass of our own filled after being thus furnished.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page62" style="width: 82px;">
- <img src="images/page62.png" width="82" height="90" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>In the Old Museum at the Royal Gardens, Kew, may be seen
-a Taylor's glass presented by us, some of the combs in which are
-elongated on the outside to the breadth of six inches. We believe
-that not only does a glass present a much handsomer appearance
-when thus worked&mdash;and will, on that account, most fully reward
-the trouble of fixing guide comb&mdash;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
-devices.</p>
-
-<p>This mode of fixing guide comb does not solely apply to this
-shaped glass, but is equally useful for all kinds of glasses. It is
-introduced in connection with No. 28, because that glass having a
-flat top and no knob, the regularity is more clearly apparent.</p>
-
-<p>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 instinct. They have no secrets in their
-economy, and they do not shrink from our constant observation as
-they daily pursue their simple policy of continuous thrift and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_63">- 63 -</span>
-persevering accumulation. 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-commonwealth:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"Long from the eye of man and face of day,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Involved in darkness all their customs lay,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Until a sage well versed in Nature's lore,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">A genius formed all science to explore;</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Hives well contrived, in crystal frames disposed.</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">And there the busy citizens disclosed."&mdash;<span class="smcap">Murphy's</span> <i>Vaniere</i>.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="NEW_BOTTLE_FEEDER" class="caption3">THE NEW BOTTLE FEEDER. No. 44.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page63" style="width: 60px;">
- <img src="images/page63.png" width="60" height="85" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>It has long been acknowledged that the best mode of
-feeding bees is through an opening at the top of the stock
-hive. The "new bottle feeder" is a simple and good means
-of administering food when a stock requires help in that
-way. Any kind of hive that has an opening at the top may
-thus be fed; bees can take the food from it without leaving the hive.
-Another important feature is the cleanliness with which liberal feeding
-can be accomplished; and few operations require more care than does
-feeding. If liquid sweet is left hanging about the hive, it tempts
-robber bees, and when once the bees of an apiary have had a taste,
-there is no knowing where their depredations will stop; they
-resolutely attack and endeavour to rob other hives, fighting and
-killing one another to a considerable extent. Even if no hives be
-completely destroyed, weakness from loss of numbers will be the
-portion of most, if not all, the hives in the garden.</p>
-
-<p>The morals of our favorites are here a good deal at fault, for the
-strongest hives, when their inordinate passion is thus stirred up by
-the carelessness or want of knowledge of the bee-keeper, attack and
-prey upon the weak. To be "forewarned is to be forearmed"&mdash;and
-"prevention is better than cure." We strongly recommend
-closely covering up the feeder; one of the middle size bell glasses
-put over it makes a close fitting cover, should the regular cover to
-the hive not be sufficiently tight: when bees are not kept in a
-bee-house&mdash;and are on that account more accessible&mdash;this extra care is
-more particularly needed. The right time for feeding is in the
-autumn or spring. A stock of bees at Michaelmas ought to weigh
-20 lbs. exclusive of the hive, and if then it weigh less, the deficiency
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_64">- 64 -</span>
-should be made up by artificial food. It is not wise to defer doing
-this until later in the season, because it is important that when the
-food is placed in the cells, the bees should seal it up, and a tolerably
-warm temperature is required to enable them to secrete the wax for
-the delicately formed lids of the cells. If the food remain unsealed,
-there is danger of its turning sour and thereby causing disease
-among the bees. It is not well to feed in mid-winter or when the
-weather is very cold. Bees at such times consume but little food,
-being in a state of torpor, from which it is better not to arouse them.</p>
-
-<p>A little food in the spring stimulates the queen to lay more
-abundantly, for bees are provident, and do not rear the young so
-rapidly when the supplies are short. In this particular the intelligence
-of bees is very striking; they have needed no Malthus to
-teach them that the means of subsistence must regulate the increase
-of a prosperous population:</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"The prescient female rears the tender brood</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">In strict proportion to the hoarded food."&mdash;Evans.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>[** no indent]Judgment has, however, to be exercised by the apiarian in giving
-food, for it is quite possible to do <i>mischief by over feeding</i>. 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 eggs, and by this means the progress of the hive is much
-retarded, a result that should be guarded against.</p>
-
-<p>The following directions will show how the bottle feeder is to
-be used:&mdash;Fill the bottle with liquid food, place the net fixed on
-with an India-rubber band over the mouth, place the block over the
-hole of the stock hive, invert the bottle, the neck resting within the
-hole in the block; the bees will put their proboscises through the
-perforations and imbibe the food, thus causing the bottle to act on
-the principle of a fountain. The bottle being glass, it is easy to
-see when the food is consumed. The piece of perforated zinc is
-for the purpose of preventing the bees from clinging to the net,
-or escaping from the hive when the bottle is taken away for the
-purpose of refilling. A very good syrup for bees may be made by
-boiling 6 lbs. of honey with 2 lbs. of water for a few minutes; or
-loaf sugar, in the proportion of 3 lbs. to 2 lbs. of water, answers
-very well when honey is not to be obtained.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_65">- 65 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="ROUND_BEE_FEEDER" class="caption3">ROUND BEE FEEDER. No. 10.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page65a" style="width: 129px;">
- <img src="images/page65a.png" width="129" height="79" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Round bee-feeders are made of zinc and
-earthenware; 8 inches across, 3 inches deep.
-The projection outside is a receptacle for
-pouring in the food; the bees gain access to
-the feeder through a round hole, which is placed either at the centre
-or nearer one side, whichever may best suit the openings on the top
-of the stock hive. The feeder occupies a similar position to that of
-the glasses or cap hives in the gathering season. A circular piece
-of glass, cut so as to fit into a groove, prevents the bees escaping
-and retains the warmth within the hive, whilst it affords opportunity
-for inspecting the bees whilst feeding.</p>
-
-<p>The feeders were originally only made of zinc; but some bee-keepers
-advised the use of earthenware, and a few have been made
-to meet the wishes of those who give the preference to that material.</p>
-
-<p>When the bees are fed from above in this manner, the feeder is
-kept at a warm temperature by the heat of the hive. In common
-hives cottagers feed the bees by pushing under the hive thin slips
-of wood scooped out, into which the food is poured. This plan of
-feeding can only be had recourse to at night, and the pieces of wood
-must be removed in the morning. By feeding at the top of the
-stock hive any interruption of the bees is avoided. For further
-instructions on this head see the directions given for using the
-bottle feeder.</p>
-
-
-<p id="ZINC_FOUNT_FEEDER" class="caption3">A ZINC FOUNTAIN BEE FEEDER. No. 15.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page65b" style="width: 123px;">
- <img src="images/page65b.png" width="123" height="85" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>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 No. 10 round feeder.</p>
-
-<p>The liquid honey is poured in at the
-opening, which unscrews; whilst being filled, the
-inside slide closing the opening through which the food passes into
-the feeding pan, should be shut down. When the reservoir is
-filled, the screw is made fast, and the slide being withdrawn, a
-wooden float pierced with small holes, through which the bees take
-the food, forms a false bottom, and rises and falls with the liquid.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_66">- 66 -</span>
-This feeder being on the syphon principle, like a poultry or bird
-water-fountain, is supplied from the reservoir until that is empty. A
-piece of glass is fixed in the side of the reservoir, in order that the
-bee-keeper may see when it is emptied. A flat piece of glass on the
-top prevents the bees from escaping, and through it they may be
-inspected whilst feeding. The bees find access to the feeder on
-to the perforated float through the central round hole, which is
-placed over a corresponding hole in the stock hive.</p>
-
-
-<p id="NUTTS_DRAWER_FEEDER" class="caption3">NUTT'S DRAWER FEEDER. No. 9.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page66a" style="width: 137px;">
- <img src="images/page66a.png" width="137" height="80" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This is the feeding drawer, alluded to in the
-explanation of the management of the No. 1
-Nutt's Collateral Hive, for feeding at the
-bottom of the middle or stock box. The
-feeder is made of tin, and of a square form, so as to fit the
-drawer (see <a href="#Page_19">page 19</a>).</p>
-
-<p id="HONEY_CUTTERS" class="caption3">HONEY CUTTERS. No. 13.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page66b" style="width: 145px;">
- <img src="images/page66b.png" width="145" height="77" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>Honey Cutters are used for removing comb
-from boxes and glasses without damaging it.
-The flat bladed knife is for disconnecting the
-combs from the sides; the hook shaped one is
-for the same purpose, to be applied to the top or horizontal part of
-the box or glass.</p>
-
-
-<p id="FUMIGATOR11" class="caption3">FUMIGATOR. No. 11.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page66c" style="width: 50px;">
- <img src="images/page66c.png" width="50" height="99" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This Fumigator is a tin box, somewhat like a pepper
-box upon a foot. It is a simple adaptation of the fumigating
-apparatus described by Mr. Nutt, and is used in
-the following manner. Have a straw hive or other vessel
-ready, that will match in circumference the hive intended
-to be fumigated. If the empty hive have a conical top, it will not
-remain crown downwards without a rest; in this case, it will be
-convenient to invert it on a pail. Having ascertained that the hive to
-be operated upon and the empty one in its reversed position nearly
-match in size, take half a packet of the prepared fungus, fire
-it well, and place it in the box or fumigator; placing this in the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_67">- 67 -</span>
-centre of the empty hive, then bring the occupied hive directly over,
-so as to receive the fumes of smoke. To keep all close, put a wet
-cloth round the place where the two hives meet. In a minute or two
-the bees may be heard dropping heavily into the lower empty hive,
-where they lie stupefied. After a little while, the old hive may be tapped
-upon to make the bees fall more quickly. On removing the upper
-hive, the bees from it will be found lying quiet at the bottom of the
-lower one. Place a sheet on the ground, and spread the bees on it,
-then with a feather sort them over, in order to pick out the queen-bee.
-As soon as the queen is found, then pour the rest of the lethargic
-swarm from off the sheet back into the inverted hive again.
-The stupefied bees must now be sprinkled freely with a syrup made
-of honey and water, or sugar and ale boiled together. Some
-apiarians recommend a few drops of peppermint to be mixed with
-the syrup, in order to drown the peculiar odour which is special to
-each hive of bees,&mdash;this is more necessary when two hives of bees are
-fumigated and whilst under the influence of smoke are well mixed
-together. The hive containing the bees with which it is intended
-to unite the stupefied bees, must now be placed on the top of that
-containing the latter, just as the hive was from which they have come.
-A wet cloth must be fastened round the two hives, so as to prevent
-any of the bees from escaping. The hives in this position must be
-placed where they are not likely to be knocked down or meddled
-with. The fresh bees in the upper hive, attracted by the scent of the
-bees besmeared with honey, go down and commence to lick off the
-sweets from the sprinkled sleepy ones. The latter gradually revive,
-when all get mingled together, and ascend in company to the upper
-hive, where they live as if they had not been separate families.</p>
-
-<p>The two hives should be left undisturbed for twenty-four hours,
-then the upper hive may be removed and placed immediately on
-the spot from whence it was brought. The reason the queen is
-recommended to be taken is to prevent any fighting.</p>
-
-<p>The queen should be kept alive and fed as long as she will
-live, in case any harm should befall the sovereign of the other
-community.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_68">- 68 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="FUMIGATOR12" class="caption3">THE FUMIGATOR. No. 12.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page68a" style="width: 115px;">
- <img src="images/page68a.png" width="115" height="49" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>The Fumigator is useful for several purposes.
-When a frame hive has to be disturbed it is
-requisite to raise the lid and blow a little smoke
-into the hive, so as to check the angry passions of the bees.
-If it be desirable to stupefy the bees, ignited fungus must be
-placed in the box, and the flattened end applied to the entrance of
-the hive; the smoke is then blown in&mdash;either with bellows or by
-applying the mouth of the operator,&mdash;taking care to close all
-openings through which the smoke can escape. The bees fall
-down stupefied, generally in about ten minutes, but the effect varies
-according to the populousness of the hive and the quantity of comb
-in it. The projected operations must now be performed speedily,
-as activity will soon be regained. See preceding directions.</p>
-
-
-
-<p id="BEE_DRESS" class="caption3">THE BEE DRESS OR PROTECTOR. No. 31.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page68b" style="width: 85px;">
- <img src="images/page68b.png" width="85" height="193" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>All operations connected with the removal or the
-hiving of bees should be conducted with calmness
-and circumspection. Bees, although the busiest of
-creatures, have great dislike to fussiness in their
-masters, and become irritable at once if the apiarian
-lets them see that he is in a hurry. Hence, there
-is great advantage in having the face and hands
-covered whilst at work amongst the bees; for when
-the operator knows he cannot possibly be stung, he
-can then open his hives, take out the combs, gather
-in his swarms, or take the honey, with all the deliberation of a
-philosopher. Various kinds of bee dresses have been contrived;
-one that we keep ready in stock is of very simple construction. It
-is made of strong <i>black net</i>, in shape like an inverted bag, large
-enough to allow of a gentleman's wide-awake or a lady's hat being
-worn underneath. The projection of the hat or cap causes the
-dress to stand off from the face; and the meshes of the net, though
-much too small for a bee to penetrate, are wide enough to allow of
-clear vision for the operator. An elastic band secures the dress
-round the waist; the sleeves also&mdash;made of durable black calico&mdash;are
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_69">- 69 -</span>
-secured at the wrists by a similar method. The hands of the
-bee-master may be effectually protected with a pair of India-rubber
-gloves, which should be put on before the dress is fastened round
-the wrists. This kind of glove is regularly used by photographers,
-and allows of perfect ease in manipulation.</p>
-
-<p>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 security. Still he
-need not be careless as to the feelings of his bees; his success and
-their comfort will be promoted by his "handling them gently, and
-as if he loved them." "Familiarity" between bees and their
-master "breed" not "contempt," but affection.</p>
-
-<p>Any sudden or clumsy movement which jars the combs or
-frames will excite the bees, and if but one should be crushed, the
-odour of their slaughtered comrade rouses them to a pitch of
-exasperation. Their powers of smell are very acute. The best
-time for most operations is in the middle of a fine day.</p>
-
-
-<p id="ENGRAVED_PRESSING_ROLLER" class="caption3">ENGRAVED PRESSING ROLLER. No. 46.</p>
-
-<p>FOR THE GUIDANCE OF BEES IN THE CONSTRUCTION OF HONEY-COMB ON THE BARS.</p>
-
-<div class="figleft" id="page69" style="width: 244px;">
- <img src="images/page69.png" width="244" height="179" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p>This is an engraved metal
-roller, which when applied to
-the coated underside of a comb-bar
-leaves an impression like the
-diagram shown. The wax having
-been spread on the flat bar, the
-roller, heated by being put into
-hot water, is then heavily pressed
-over it. The roller has two wood
-handles, so that considerable pressure may be given to it. The
-roller is a little less than 2 inches in diameter, &#8542; of an inch wide,
-and the length from handle to handle is 6 inches. 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
-described. It is a contrivance invented in Switzerland, and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_70">- 70 -</span>
-exhibited in the International Exhibition of 1862, when the
-pattern roller was purchased by ourselves.</p>
-
-<p>The bars of a hive prepared with these markings in wax afford
-ready made foundations for regular combs, which very much
-facilitate the operations of the bees.</p>
-
-
-<p id="IMPRESSED_WAX_SHEETS" class="caption3">IMPRESSED WAX SHEETS FOR ARTIFICIAL COMB.</p>
-
-<p>These artificial partition walls for combs are sheets of genuine
-wax, about the substance of thin cardboard. They receive
-rhomboidal impressions by being pressed between two metal
-plates, carefully and mathematically prepared and cast so that
-the impressions are exactly the same size as the base of the cells of
-a honey-comb. 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 both; now the substance of this is said to be only the
-one hundred and eightieth part of an inch, whilst the artificial ones
-we are recommending are between the thirtieth and fortieth part of
-an inch, more than four times the thickness of the handy-work of the
-bees themselves. It would, indeed, be vain to attempt to furnish
-sheets of wax at all approaching their own delicate fabric; the
-impressed sheets are quite as thin as they can be to bear the
-handling which is requisite for fixing them in the hives. We
-find, however, that the thickness is no disadvantage; the bees
-speedily excavate and <i>pare the artificial sheet</i> so as to suit their
-<i>own</i> notions of the substance required; then, with admirable
-economy, they use the surplus thus obtained for the construction of
-the cells. After a sheet has been partly worked at by the bees,
-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 upon.</p>
-
-<p>When it is considered, as writers tell us, that more than fourteen
-pounds of honey are required for the secretion and elaboration of
-a single pound of comb, it will not be difficult to form a just estimate
-of the value of this invention, which thus furnishes cheap and excellent
-assistance to our industrious favorites. It also shows the bee-keeper
-that all clean empty combs should be carefully preserved,
-and considered as valuable stock. Another great advantage that it
-affords us is, that it renders us independent of <i>guide comb</i>, which is
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_71">- 71 -</span>
-not always obtainable. When a sheet or a strip of this impressed
-wax is properly fixed to the comb bar, it is <i>certain</i> to be the guide
-and foundation of a straight comb. This invention has been derived
-from Germany, where it has been adopted many years with success.
-At the International Exhibition of 1862, we purchased the metal
-plates or castings, so as to manufacture the impressed sheets with
-which we are now able to supply our customers; and, after the
-careful trials we have made, we have great confidence in recommending
-them.</p>
-
-<p>In the season of 1863 we furnished a Woodbury glass super
-with the wax sheets fixed to the bars, in the manner hereafter to
-be explained, and it was truly astonishing to see the rapidity with
-which these sheets of wax were worked into comb. Receptacles were
-quickly made ready for the storing of honey, and the new combs soon
-became beautifully white; for although the artificial wax has a yellow
-tinge, yet after being worked at and made thinner, it is as good in
-colour as ordinary combs. For supers we cut the wax plates in half,
-making one serve for two bars.</p>
-
-<p>We have received from Germany the following directions for the
-fastening of the artificial plates to the comb bars. Hereafter will
-be described a plan which we have adopted, and to which preference
-is given.</p>
-
-<p>(Translation) "The unstamped edge of the plate receives incisions
-half an inch distant from one another made with a sharp knife, the
-plate having been a little warmed. Then it is pinched between two
-equally strong ledges which have been well moistened; the projecting
-edge of the plate which received the incisions is alternately bent to
-the right and to the left. The comb bars are well besmeared with
-artificial sticking wax (a mixture of two parts of wax and one part
-of American resin), and is well warmed at a fire. Afterwards the
-besmeared side is laid upon the bent end of the plate, and pressed
-to it as firmly as possible. A small wooden ledge, besmeared with
-sticking wax and fastened by means of pressure to the lower edge of
-the plate, prevents it from bending, which sometimes happens when
-the bees work it."</p>
-
-<p>To carry out the directions here given, it is necessary to warm
-the besmeared comb-bar at a fire; the wax plate has also to be
-warmed. Having tried this plan, and found inconvenience attending
-it, especially from the wax curling with the heat and the difficulty
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_72">- 72 -</span>
-of making it stick firm,&mdash;to say nothing of the uncomfortableness
-of performing the operation before a fire on a hot day in July,&mdash;we
-began to consider if a little carpentering might not do the work
-better and more pleasantly, and adopted the following plan:&mdash;We
-split or cut the comb bars of the Woodbury super in
-half lengthways, and taking the unstamped edge between the two
-strips, join them together again by small screws at the side,
-confining the wax plate tightly in the centre, with no possibility of
-its falling down. Where frames are used, of course, the bar could
-not be cut in two (except with the "compound bar and frame,"
-where the bar being loose, it might be as easily managed). The
-plan we adopt with an ordinary frame is to saw out an opening
-about an inch, or an inch and a half from either end where the
-sides are morticed in; this opening we make with a keyhole saw.
-Through it the wax plate is easily put, and with a heated iron
-passed over the upper side of the bar, is made sufficiently firm.
-If the wax plates are too large, a portion may easily be cut off; an
-opening of full 11 inches long can be made without materially
-weakening the bar and frame.</p>
-
-<p>The wax plates must not extend to the bottom of the frame; a
-space of at least one inch should be left for expansion, because the
-bees in working the plate stretch it down lower. We also use a few
-pins firmly pressed into the frames, and long enough to reach the
-edge of the plate, for by fixing three or four pins on either side,
-both at the sides and at the bottom, the plate may be held in an
-exactly central position within the frame. As before mentioned,
-when these directions are carried out, there is no fear of being
-troubled with crooked combs on bars.</p>
-
-<p>The secretion of wax, and the method of its adaptation by the
-bees, is thus admirably described by Evans:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Thus filtered through yon flatterer's folded mail</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Clings the cooled wax, and hardens to a scale.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Swift at the well-known call, the ready train</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">(For not a buzz boon Nature breathes in vain,)</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Spring to each falling flake, and bear along</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Their glossy burdens to the builder throng.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">These, with sharp sickle, or with sharper tooth,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Pare each excrescence, and each angle smooth,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Till now, in finish'd pride, two radiant rows</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Of snow-white cells one mutual base disclose;</div><span class="pagenum" id="Page_73">- 73 -</span>
- <div class="verse indent0">Six shining panels gird each polish'd round,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">The door's fine rim, with waxen fillet bound,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0"><i>While walls so thin, with sister walls combined,</i></div>
- <div class="verse indent0"><i>Weak in themselves, a sure dependance find.</i></div>
- <div class="verse indent0">
-
-<hr class="tb" /></div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Others in firm phalanx ply their twinkling feet,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Stretch out the ductile mass, and form the street,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">With many a cross-way, path, and postern gate,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">That shorten to their range the spreading state.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="IV_MANIPULATION_AND_USES_OF_BAR_AND_FRAME_HIVES">IV. MANIPULATION AND USES OF BAR AND FRAME HIVES.</h2>
-</div>
-
-
-<p>Having at <a href="#Page_36">page 36</a>, given a description of the mechanical
-arrangements of bar and frame hives, the next thing is to
-describe the mode of introducing the bees, and of thus bringing
-the humane and scientific hives into operation. The swarm
-should be first hived into a common straw hive from the bough
-or shrub upon which they may have alighted; place this hive,&mdash;into
-which we will suppose the bees have been shaken,&mdash;on the
-ground, propped up on one side with a brick or a flower pot, or
-anything of the sort that may be handy, in order that straggler bees
-may join the swarm. The spot selected for this should be as shady
-an one as can be found, near to the place where the swarm settled;
-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 hive; spread a
-sheet or cloth on the ground where an even surface can be obtained;
-stake this sheet down at the four corners, to prevent ruts and
-inequalities, which are great hindrances to the bees going into the
-bar and frame hive; place the latter upon the sheet without its
-floorboard, having its front raised on blocks or sticks rather more
-than an inch,&mdash;not more, otherwise the bees will cluster and attach
-themselves to the lower part of the frames instead of going up
-between. These preparations will perhaps occupy ten minutes, by
-which time the swarm will have become settled and tolerably quiet.
-Then with a sharp rap precipitate the bees out of the straw hive
-on to the sheet immediately in front of the frame hive; give the
-straw hive another knock so as to dislodge all the bees, and then
-take it quite away, otherwise they may, if it be left near, perversely
-choose to go into that instead of the one desired. In some cases, as
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_74">- 74 -</span>
-when the swarm has to be brought from a distance, and procured from
-a cottager about whose skill in carrying out these directions there may
-be misgivings, it is best to give instructions that the swarm be brought
-home after sunset, and then the foregoing directions for inducing
-the bees to tenant the frame-hive may be better carried out; for ourselves,
-we much prefer the evening for the purpose. 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 quickly.</p>
-
-<p>Mr. Langstroth, in his admirable book "The Hive and Honey
-Bee," writes "If they are too dilatory in entering the new hive, they
-may be gently separated with a spoon or leafy twig, where they
-gather in bunches on the sheets or they may be carefully 'spooned
-up' and shaken out close to the front of the hive. As these go
-in with fanning wings, they will raise a peculiar note, which communicates
-to their companions that they have found a home, and in
-a short time the whole swarm will enter, without injury to a single
-bee." In the <i>Journal of Horticulture</i>, Mr. Woodbury says "If
-combs be fixed in the frames, the crown board may be removed, and
-the cluster knocked out of the straw hive on to the top of the
-exposed frames. The bees will disappear between them with the
-utmost alacrity, delighted to have met with a ready furnished
-dwelling, and the top or crown board having been replaced, the
-hive should at once be removed to the position it is intended
-permanently to occupy."</p>
-
-<p>No one should attempt these operations without being protected
-by a <i>bee dress</i>, and a pair of India-rubber gloves,&mdash;such as those used
-by photographers,&mdash;which are sting proof. Some persons also take the
-precaution of tying strings round the ankles of the trowsers, lest some
-straggler should determine to attack the outposts of the enemy, which,
-to say the least, might perplex the operator in the midst of his task.
-Elastic India-rubber bands are good for this purpose, or a pair of
-"knickerbockers" would be useful. If Wellington boots are worn,
-the trowsers may be tucked within the leather, in which case no bee
-can molest the operator, and no string or band will be needed.
-Practice makes perfect in bee tending as in other matters, and when
-a light hand is gained, there is little danger of the apiarian being
-stung.</p>
-
-<p>If the weather be wet the next day or so after hiving, it will be
-well to give a little assistance to the new colony in the shape of food,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_75">- 75 -</span>
-for although when a swarm leaves a hive almost every bee composing
-it fills itself with honey, we have known not a few instances in case of
-very wet weather, in which the whole swarm has been starved for
-the want of this little timely help. Of course, the first work of the
-bees is to build themselves combs, and these combs being produced
-by the secretion of wax from honey, a great drain upon their resources
-immediately begins, and any little outlay at this juncture is abundantly
-compensated by its enabling these industrious emigrants the more
-quickly to push, forward the furnishing of their new home. Clean
-combs from hives that may have lost their bees are readily accepted,
-and cause a great saving in time and material to the bees; these
-combs may easily be fixed by cutting them the proper size to fit
-within the frames, and making them firm by tying with tape or
-fixing them with pliable wire. Artificial comb (see <a href="#Page_70">page 70</a>) is often
-used, and has this advantage, that the combs are certain to be
-straight and regular, besides the saving in material to the bees.</p>
-
-<p>These preparations must be made prior to the bees being hived,
-so that when a hive is so prepared, a swarm may begin to adapt
-whatever advantages they find ready for them; and it is truly
-marvellous what a swarm will do when thus furnished with combs in
-their new habitation. In these the queen can immediately begin to
-deposit her eggs, and the workers to store their honey, without
-having to wait for the construction of combs, which is a laborious
-occupation for the bees.</p>
-
-<p>In some cases, fine white combs may be taken from the stock
-hive; the end frames are always the most free from brood. Care
-must be exercised not to rob this part of the hive too much; one
-comb may perhaps be removed in the course of the season without
-impoverishing the bees, but it is not wise to take more.</p>
-
-<p id="Putting_ON"><span class="smcap">Putting on Super Hive.</span>&mdash;A colony established a year or
-more is called a "stock," by way of distinction from a swarm of the
-present year. Supposing the hive to be a stock, the super should be
-given them at the early part of the season, say, if fine and warm, at
-the latter end of April or beginning of May; if the weather be then
-unfavourable, it is better to delay doing so until a more genial
-temperature. If the colony be a swarm of the present year, two
-weeks should be allowed to elapse from the time of tenanting a hive,
-before putting on the super; this delay is necessary to give the bees
-the opportunity of building combs in their new domicile, and of
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_76">- 76 -</span>
-getting a store of honey for themselves before working for their
-master.</p>
-
-<p>When it is wished to use a super, the crown board or roof of
-the stock hive must be taken away, the thin adapting or honey
-board taking its place; the two long slits at the sides are to give
-admission to the super. The bees will begin sooner and work
-faster if the eight bars are each furnished with artificial comb (as
-described <a href="#Page_71">page 71</a>). We have had depriving hives very quickly
-filled when the bees were thus assisted. Combs that have been left
-unfilled may be fixed to the bars as before described; these must be
-white and clean, as dark comb should not be used for super hives.
-The combs when filled may be taken out singly, if desired for
-consumption, substituting an empty bar or comb; or should the
-bee-keeper desire to see a handsome super, he must wait until the
-bees have filled and sealed up all the combs, and then he may
-proceed to deprive them of it as before described.</p>
-
-<p id="Taking_Out"><span class="smcap">Taking out Frames with Combs.</span>&mdash;It is well for a beginner to
-practice the directions for opening and shutting up hives by using an
-empty hive, until he becomes familiar with the handling of the frames.</p>
-
-<p>The first thing to do is to loosen the crown board or lid with a
-knife, drawing a piece of string underneath it to divide the wax or
-cement with which the bees make all secure. This string should
-be drawn through very slowly, so as not to irritate the bees.
-In hot weather, the crown board may be loosened by a lateral
-movement; but sometimes, for want of care, this loosening of the
-lid disturbs the bees, and as soon as it is removed, a number of
-them, enraged thereby, pour out and attack the operator. This and
-all other operations ought be done very carefully and gently;
-especial care should be taken not to prise the lid upwards, by way
-of wrenching it off, for the frames and combs are generally secured
-thereto, and there is a liability of rending the combs with it; this
-will greatly irritate the bees, and be otherwise injurious. When a
-hive of bees is enraged, there is little chance of pacifying them; it
-is best, under such circumstances to 'give in' at once, and not
-attempt to perform any operation, but to shut the hive up and beat
-a retreat, benefiting by the experience so as to do better in a day
-or so afterwards. There are various devices for intimidating or
-conciliating the bees, and one of these already spoken of is&mdash;smoke.
-So next time the experimenter makes his attempt let
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_77">- 77 -</span>
-bill! raise the lid an inch or so, and blow a few puffs of smoke
-into the hive, which will cause the bees to retreat. This
-is best done by using our No. 12 fumigator, with a little of the
-prepared fungus lighted. Pipes or cigars are not convenient to use
-for this purpose when the head is enveloped in the dress. As soon
-as the lid is removed, a few bees will fly out to learn the cause of
-such an interference. Conciliation should then be introduced by
-having at hand a little sweetened water, which may be sprinkled,
-or rather let drop from a feather or brush. The sudden motion of
-the hand required in the act of sprinkling irritates the bees, so that
-instead of making them our friends, they may become our foes.
-Mr. Langstroth recommends that a fine watering pot filled with
-sweetened water, be used for the purpose. Care must be taken not
-to drench the bees; only just sufficient should be given to run down
-the sides of the combs as well as sprinkling the top. As soon as
-the bees really understand that syrup is being given them, they
-feast upon it instead of angrily attacking the operator. Thus
-pacified, and with gentle treatment, but little difficulty will be
-found in proceeding with the work required. But the unskilled
-operator should on no account neglect to put on a bee-dress and
-gloves as described above. We would err on the side of caution,
-although there is an old saying that "a cat in gloves catches no
-mice," and the apiarian will find that his fingers are not so free to
-work as he would like, for gloves make them rather clumsy in
-drawing up the frames.</p>
-
-<p>The frames must now be gently prised from front to rear; this may
-be done with a small screw-driver or other stout instrument with a
-wedged end to go into the notches. The frames fit loosely so as to
-allow of a little movement from back to front; a lateral or side-way
-movement might kill the queen; or if not so fatal as that, might crush
-some of the bees and injure the brood combs, and must be carefully
-avoided. It, of course, depends upon what the operation is that has
-to be performed whether or no all the frames should be thus loosened.
-If it be for making artificial swarms, or for any purpose requiring an
-interview with her majesty, the whole of them must be loosened,
-because it often happens that all the combs have to be examined,
-sometimes twice over, before she can be discovered. Bees are very
-apt to build their combs in a slightly waving form, and in extracting
-one it will be needful to make room both for the comb and bees
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_78">- 78 -</span>
-upon it to pass without scraping the next comb, and there will be
-a difficulty if the apiarian attempts to draw out one comb whilst the
-other frames are located in their appropriate notches. Let the
-operator gently proceed to lift say the third frame (allowing it to
-lodge on the little block that divides the notches) a little nearer to
-the fourth frame, and the second nearer the third, so as to admit of
-sufficient space to lift out the end one. Very carefully and slowly
-he should lift the frame by taking hold with thumb and finger of
-the projecting shoulders that rest in the notch; 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 bees.</p>
-
-<p>After the end comb is thus removed, it will be easy to extract
-the others, as there will now be plenty of room for drawing them out.
-A hive of exactly the same size should be at hand; and in case it be
-desired to remove the combs and bees into another hive, care should
-be taken that each comb occupies the same relative position that it
-did in the old hive.</p>
-
-<p>In handling the frames, bear in mind that they are to be held
-perpendicularly. To gain a view of both sides of the comb when
-searching for the queen, or for any purpose requiring full inspection,
-with a little dexterity in twirling the frame round, the reverse side may
-be brought to face the operator, without letting the comb break away
-by its own weight and so fall out of the frame, which it will do if
-allowed to deviate from its upright or downright position. If the
-operator could see an experienced person perform the operation, he
-would quickly understand how combs may thus be handled without
-any risk of a smash.</p>
-
-<p>When placing frames in the hive, care must be taken not to
-crush a bee between the projecting shoulders of the frame and the
-rabbets or notches on which they rest, and on no account must the
-frame be let down with a jerk, or the bees will become exceedingly
-fierce: 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 thereby. The crown board should be replaced by
-first resting its front edge in its place, and then slowly lowering the
-after part, looking carefully under, and momentarily raising it when
-necessary to avoid crushing a bee. Should the hive have its super
-on, the same directions may be followed. The super with its honey
-board may be bodily taken away, and so placed and confined for a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_79">- 79 -</span>
-time that robber bees cannot find an entrance, and also be far
-enough from the apiarian to be out of danger of being broken or
-overturned by him.</p>
-
-<p id="Adv_Bar_Frame"><span class="smcap">Advantages of Bar and Frame Hives.</span>&mdash;It will be asked
-why all this trouble about bar and frames with straight combs built
-upon them? We have shown the full command which the bee-keeper
-has over a hive so constituted, and we now proceed to show
-how in skilful hands these advantages may be used successfully;
-though, in the hands of the unpractised and unskilful the contrary
-may be the result.</p>
-
-<p>All the bars and frames in an apiary ought to be of precisely the
-same dimensions, so as to fit every hive. This is essential for the
-strengthening of weak hives. A hive that is weakly may often be
-advantageously strengthened by having put into it a comb of
-brood from a populous stock, to which an empty frame from
-the weak one may be given; no bees must be on the brood-comb&mdash;these
-should be shaken off or gently dislodged with a
-feather into the hive from which the comb is taken. The frames
-of the hive from which the comb has been taken, should be, one
-by one, placed so as to fill in the vacancy, leaving the empty frame
-nearest the side. When a hive has been in use many years, the
-combs become very black, and every bee that is bred in a cell leaves
-a film behind. It may be understood how in this way the cells
-become contracted, so that the bees that are bred in them are
-correspondingly reduced in size. After the lapse of say five years, it
-may be necessary to begin to remove the old combs. This may be
-done by cutting away the comb or by substituting an empty frame
-for one with old black comb, gradually moving the frames towards
-each other. By taking two away in this manner in the spring or
-summer of every season, the combs in course of five years may all
-be reconstructed and fresh clean ones be secured for breeding in,
-instead of the old black ones that otherwise would remain as long as
-the stock could live in the hive.</p>
-
-<p id="art_swarming"><span class="smcap">Artificial Swarming.</span>&mdash;Every bee-keeper knows the anxiety
-there is in watching and expecting a swarm to come forth, fearful
-lest his favorites should, "like riches, take wing and fly away," a mischance
-that it is desirable to prevent. In our description of natural
-swarming this will be found fully treated of; we propose here merely
-to point out how, with the moveable frames, this work of nature
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_80">- 80 -</span>
-may be assisted&mdash;we say assisted, because artificial swarming should,
-as nearly as possible, resemble natural swarming, that is, it should
-be performed at the same time of the year, and when the populous
-state of the hive makes a division desirable. This is easily known
-to be the case when bees hang out in clusters at the entrance,
-wasting their time in enforced idleness instead of being abroad
-gathering honey. It is also necessary that the hive contain drones.</p>
-
-<p>An empty hive should be placed on the stand when the living hive is
-removed, for the purpose of amusing returning bees. If the hive is
-kept in a bee-house, the entrance should be shut down unto the hive is
-restored, when the clustered bees may be at once admitted.</p>
-
-<p>When such is the state of the hive, the facility of forming an artificial
-swarm with a moveable frame hive is a decided advantage. The
-best time for performing the operation is about ten o'clock in the
-morning of a fine summer's day. The following directions should be
-carried out:&mdash;place ready a counter or bench that is firm and strong,
-and which has space on it for the inhabited&mdash;or rather the over-inhabited&mdash;frame
-hive and the empty one, which is about to be
-made the receptacle of a separate stock. The operator having on
-bee-dress and the other appliances ready, may now open the hive as
-before described, and proceed to take out the frames, carefully
-examining both sides of each comb to find the queen: she is
-generally in the centre of the hive, so that it is not always needful
-to take out all the ten frames. As they are examined, the frames
-may be put into the empty hive, and when the object of the bee-master's
-search is found, he must carefully remove the frame
-containing her majesty, and may place it temporarily in the empty
-hive at one end by itself. Next he must proceed to put the frames
-back into the old hive, closing up the vacancy caused by the removal
-of the comb with the queen on it, and leave the empty frame at the
-end. Then he may place the frame containing the queen&mdash;with the
-few bees that may be upon it&mdash;in the centre of the empty hive;
-then putting all the other frames in, and replacing the lid, the bee-master
-will place this hive in the exact position occupied by the old
-stock. The bees that are on the wing will go to the old spot, and
-finding the queen there, they will rally round her and very soon form
-a sufficient number to constitute a swarm; comb building will at
-once begin, the frames will in a week or so be filled, and a satisfactory
-stock will thus be established. By doing this at the right
-time, just before the bees are about to swarm, or when there are
-many drones, all the trouble of watching and waiting for them is
-saved. Mr. Woodbury claims the honour of having originated this
-mode of artificial swarming; subsequently Mr. Langstroth and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_81">- 81 -</span>
-others have described a similar process, no doubt originally, as far
-as they knew, therefore still more useful to us as a confirmation of
-the value of Mr. Woodbury's discovery.</p>
-
-<p>This operation we performed, exactly as described above, with
-one of our improved cottage hives one afternoon at the latter end
-of May, 1862. Whilst inspecting our bees, we caught sight of the
-queen on the comb in one of the bell glasses. This was a chance
-not to be missed, and we immediately resolved to form an artificial
-swarm, for the hive was very full of bees. Besides, being obliged to
-be away from the apiary most of the week, we were glad of the
-opportunity of so easily establishing a colony without the uncertainty
-and trouble of hiving a natural swarm. In the first place we slid
-a tin under the bell glass, and removing the stock hive from underneath
-we took it a few feet away; then we placed an empty improved
-cottage hive where the old stock had stood, 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 hive. The bees that were left abroad,
-belonging to the old stock returned as usual to their old entrance
-as they supposed; soon a sufficient number formed a large cluster
-in the hive and began comb building, the queen remaining in the
-glass until the cells below were sufficiently numerous for her to
-deposit her eggs in them. The division answered exceedingly well,
-both hives prospered; the old hive either had some princesses
-coming forward to supply the loss of the queen, or the bees used a
-power that they possess of raising a queen from worker brood in
-the manner we have previously described.<a id="FNanchor_5" href="#Footnote_5" class="fnanchor">[5]</a></p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_5" href="#FNanchor_5" class="label">[5]</a> See <a href="#Page_5">Section 1, page 5</a>.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>The foregoing account illustrates the successful formation of an
-artificial swarm; but with a cottage hive it was quite a matter of
-accident to have been able to get possession of the queen. With a
-moveable frame hive she can at any suitable time be found.</p>
-
-<p>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 hive,
-that is to remove it some few paces off: when the hives are in a
-bee-house, 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 stock, and the old stock may be removed to an
-approximate entrance. Some apiarians recommend that a space be
-left between the two hives, by placing the hives on the right and
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_82">- 82 -</span>
-left of the old entrance, in order that too large a proportion of
-bees should not enter the new hive at the old position to the
-impoverishment of the other. But we have found the mode
-adopted with the cottage hive answer so well, that we see no reason
-for recommending any different plan.</p>
-
-<p>It is the office of the bee-master to assist, not to go in the least
-degree contrary to nature. We know that when a natural swarm
-issues forth it has its impregnated queen, and when located in a
-new abode commences building worker combs, and leaves the
-building of the few drone combs to a later period; but if a division
-of the hive should be made by putting half the combs in one hive
-and half in another, the hive containing the queenless or embryo
-queen will busy itself with building only drone comb, thus a number
-of receptacles for useless bees is provided, which tends to weakness,
-and eventually to loss of the hive.</p>
-
-<p>In the plan we have recommended for forming two separate
-families, we nearly follow the natural state of things; the comb that
-the queen is upon is the only one that is taken from the hive, and
-this vacancy should be filled in by moving the frames together
-so as to leave the empty frame at the end. The bees, under the
-government of the impregnated queen, construct the combs and furnish
-their new abode, which, as before stated, they will do with worker cells.</p>
-
-<p>By adopting the plan above described, the moveable bar and
-frame hive will prove far superior to any of the dividing hives,
-which provide for equal division of the combs.</p>
-
-<p>Perhaps the greatest advantage the moveable frame hive
-possesses is, that a full knowledge can be attained of its exact
-state as regards the queen, the population and the quantity of food
-in stock. During weather of a genial temperature, the combs may
-on any fine day be inspected, and thus a knowledge being gained
-of the deficiency existing in a hive, the necessary means may be
-adopted for supplying the want. Sometimes such an examination
-will verify the fears of the bee-keeper, when, having observed that
-his bees have ceased to carry in pollen, he has thereby received
-warning that the queen has been lost at some juncture when no
-successor to the throne could be provided. Such a hive has entered
-on a downward course, and will dwindle away entirely unless a
-queen should be given to it, or else, some combs containing
-young brood not more than three days old. By the latter method
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_83">- 83 -</span>
-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 them.</p>
-
-<p>When a bee-keeper has become skilful in his calling, he may be
-desirous to encourage the breeding of queens, or rather of preventing
-their destruction. 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 brood.</p>
-
-<p>Hives found to be queenless may be supplied either with
-matured queens or with queen cells. If the latter are sufficiently
-numerous, their introduction may easily be effected by exchanging
-a comb in each hive; if they have to be cut out and placed loosely
-in the new hive, a triangular piece of comb should then be removed
-with them, to be used as a block in preventing any pressure coming
-on them. A space must be cut out of the middle in the centre
-combs of the hive into which they are to be introduced. Special
-care must be taken not to bruise the royal embryos, as they are
-particularly sensitive to pressure.</p>
-
-<p>A very great advantage that the Woodbury bar and frame-hive
-possesses, is the safety and convenience with which a stock of bees
-can in it be transported to any part of the kingdom; and, by a
-few additional arrangements, stocks have been sent in it to distant
-countries. In many districts hives are removed to moors and
-heaths in autumn, for the purpose of gathering heather honey.
-In this operation the frames are a great support to the combs, very
-much lessening the risk of a break down and consequent loss.</p>
-
-<p>From a hive that has been inhabited all the winter, we have not
-unfrequently lifted out the frames and removed the stock to a clean
-hive, and we believe that the change has always been useful. The
-bees find a clean floorboard and a clean hive to breed in, free from
-insects that may have harboured in crevices about the hive. When
-the change has been made, the old hive can be thoroughly cleaned,
-and used in the same way for making the exchange with another
-stock. The process for handling will, of course, be the same as
-before described. We have found that where this plan has been
-carried out, that the bees seem to progress faster. Perhaps a little
-stirring up may be useful in arousing them from the winter doze;
-the time we recommend for doing this is the beginning of April,
-but a fine warm day should be chosen.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_84">- 84 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="DRIVING" class="caption3">DRIVING.</p>
-
-<p>Driving is an operation by which bees are induced to vacate an
-old settled hive and to enter an empty one. Many apiarians prefer
-this mode of effecting an exchange of hives to the plan of fumigating
-the bees.</p>
-
-<p>The greatest success attending such a transfer will be in the
-case of hives well filled with combs that are worked nearly to the
-floorboard; and it may be remarked that bees are generally so far
-provident, that they leave an open space in which to pass underneath
-their combs over all the floor of the hive. When the old hive is
-inverted, the bees crawl up the combs, and thus more easily pass up
-into the new hive, which the operator places over the old one with
-the intent that they should enter it.</p>
-
-<p>The best time for performing this operation is about the middle
-of the day, and when the weather is warm. It is essential that the
-operator be protected with a bee-dress and gloves, as before
-described; and previous to commencing his task, he must provide
-all necessary implements. These are:&mdash;a couple of hives, one of
-which should correspond in shape and size with the hive from which
-the bees are to be driven; a cloth to tie round at the junction when
-the new hive is placed on the old one; some string to keep the
-cloth in its place; an empty pail to receive the top of the old hive,
-if one of the old conical shape, but if the stock of bees is in a
-square box hive with a flat top, a firm stool will be the best; and a
-No. 12 fumigator with some fungus, which will complete the material
-of war. The bucket or stool must be placed securely on the ground
-about a yard from the place where the full hive stands; then a few puff's
-of smoke being blown in amongst the bees, will cause them to retreat
-up amongst the combs. The bee-master will now turn the hive<a id="FNanchor_6" href="#Footnote_6" class="fnanchor">[6]</a>
-upside down very gently, letting it rest in the pail or on the stool;
-he then quickly places the empty hive over the full one, and ties
-the cloth round it to prevent any escape of the bees. If the cloth
-be damped, it will cling the closer to the hives. The third hive is
-intended to be placed on the stand formerly occupied by the stock,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_85">- 85 -</span>so as to retain the few returning bees which had been absent in the
-fields. Care must be taken that all crevices through which it is
-possible for the bees to escape from the united hives should be
-effectually closed. When the two are fairly united, the operator
-will proceed by rapping the full hive gently with the hands or a
-couple of sticks, more particularly on that side where the combs
-are the most thickly placed&mdash;that is, if the hive be not equally
-filled.</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_6" href="#FNanchor_6" class="label">[6]</a> Care should be exercised in turning the hives over to keep the combs
-vertical, or they are likely to break from their foundations.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>It generally happens that in about fifteen minutes the bees
-regularly commence the ascent; their exodus will be known by
-the distinct rushing sound which is always noticed when a colony
-of bees is on the move. The first thing bees do when disturbed is
-to till their honey bags, as they invariably do at swarming time,
-consequently after the first rush into the new hive is over, as in the
-case of a swarm, the "flitting" bees are not much disposed to take
-wing. When the noise made by the ascending bees has been heard,
-and has in good degree subsided, the cloth may be removed, and
-the old hive, now deserted, may be taken indoors, and if a few bees
-yet remain, they may be brushed off with a feather. An experienced
-apiarian on first hearing the rushing noise before mentioned, will not
-hesitate to tilt the top hive over a little on one side, so that he
-may watch the bees during the ascent; the queen may be seen
-passing up, and if the operator desires to take her away, he can
-secure her by placing a wine glass over her. This expedient is often
-resorted to in the autumn when stocks are to be united, for in such
-a case the removal of the queen prevents some fighting.</p>
-
-<p>If the taking of the honey be the object of the bee-master, then
-"driving" is manifestly a better plan than to resort to the fumes
-of sulphur for the purpose; for the bees from whom their store is
-taken, can be joined to stocks that are weak in numbers, with
-considerable advantage to the future prosperity of the apiary.</p>
-
-<p>When the removed bees are to be joined to another stock, the
-operator will proceed as follows:&mdash;At dusk, dislodge the bees on to
-a cloth, sprinkle them with sweet syrup, and place the hive to
-which it is intended to join them, over the mass; they will
-gradually ascend into the hive placed for them, and early next
-morning the hive, with its slender stock thus augmented, may be
-removed to its stand. Should the operator not have been successful,
-or not sufficiently skilful to gain possession of the queen, he may
-leave it to the bees themselves to decide which queen they will have.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_86">- 86 -</span>
-By this plan of "driving," artificial swarms may be secured by
-an "expert" even in common hives, though those do not afford the
-facilities for such a purpose as do the bar, or bar-and-frame, hives.</p>
-
-
-<p id="CHANGING_OLD_STOCKS" class="caption3">CHANGING OLD STOCKS TO NEW HIVES.</p>
-
-<p>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 hives,
-in which the honey may be obtained without the destruction
-of the bees. We mostly discourage such a transfer, attended
-as it is with much labour, and requiring a considerable amount
-of apiarian skill. An old fashioned hive may very readily be
-rendered a humane one, simply by cutting out with a sharp pointed
-knife the middle of the top of the hive; a piece may thus easily be
-taken out, so as to leave a round hole two or three inches in diameter,
-but care must be taken that the knife does not penetrate much below
-the straw, lest it reach the comb or the bees&mdash;and it will be safer for
-the operator to have a bee-dress on. There should be ready a round
-adapting board, with a corresponding hole, which may be secured
-on the top by putting four long nails through the same number of
-holes in the board; then a cap hive or a glass may be placed on
-the top, for the purpose of admitting the bees, who will soon crowd
-therein to work.</p>
-
-<p>This hive or glass will form a super or depriving hive, and
-can be worked as profitably as most of the improved hives. Per
-the sake of an improved appearance, an outside case, either of
-zinc, straw, or wood, may be dropped over all, and then, if well
-painted, the whole will form no disfigurement to any flower garden.</p>
-
-<p>This is beyond doubt the easiest way of overcoming the difficulty,
-but as it may not satisfy all, we now proceed to describe how a
-complete transfer may be made. No hive offers such facilities for
-the correct placing of the combs in a perfectly upright position as
-does the bar and frame hive. As before remarked, 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 habits; but by carefully carrying out the
-following directions any one may successfully perform the feat.
-The first thing is to get the bees away from the combs; there
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_87">- 87 -</span>
-are two ways of doing this, one is by fumigation (see <a href="#Page_60">page 60</a>),
-the other by driving (see <a href="#Page_84">page 84</a>). Whichever plan may be
-resorted to, have the bees confined in the old hive on their stand
-until you are quite ready to admit them into the bar and frame hive.
-Have in readiness all the necessary appliances: these consist of a
-large knife for cutting the hive, a good sized table on which to lay
-the brood combs, a basin of water&mdash;for washing off honey which
-may besmear the hands,&mdash;tape or cotton string to fasten the combs
-in their frames, a pair of honey cutters for cutting out the combs,
-jars to hold the honey that runs out, and a feather for brushing
-off any bees that may remain. It is necessary that the operator
-should have on his bee-dress, and India-rubber gloves. Then begin
-by slicing off a piece of the hive with a sharp table knife; carefully
-cut out the working combs&mdash;cut them large, so that they will squeeze
-into the frames; and to be more secure, wind some of the tape
-round to keep them in position until made fast by the bees. After
-a few days, these fastenings may be removed. Care should be taken
-that the combs occupy the same position in the frames as in the
-hive from which they were extracted. Having thus prepared the
-hive, the bees may be let into it. It may be as well to keep them
-confined a few hours, giving them water at the top, until they make
-the combs secure; the new hive will then be less likely to offer an
-attraction to bees from other hives who, if feloniously inclined,
-might come to rob. This transfer should be made when the
-weather is such that the bees can fly about; when not warm enough,
-it should be done in a room at a temperature of about 70 degrees.
-An expert apiarian could perform the operation in less than three
-quarters of an hour, and with little loss. A week or so after a
-swarm has left the old stock is perhaps the very best time for such
-a removal. Should the operation be performed in the open air, the
-bees from surrounding hives will be sure to come in great numbers
-to obtain a share of the honey necessarily exposed, for they delight
-in plunder. In order, therefore, to avoid annoyance to the operator,
-and the excitement which is certain to be induced in surrounding
-hives, it is better to conduct the dissection in some building with
-closed doors. In some instances a routing of this kind has a
-beneficial effect; old stocks of hives that have previously appeared
-to be dwindling, are often aroused to activity by their removal into
-a fresh domicile.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_88">- 88 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="WEIGHING_HIVES" class="caption3">WEIGHING HIVES, &amp;c.</p>
-
-<p>One of the most effectual modes of ascertaining the condition of
-a hive is by weighing it. Such knowledge is most important at
-the close of the gathering season, 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 winter. A knowledge of the
-numerical strength of the colony is also useful, in enabling the
-bee-keeper to decide which hives will be benefited by being joined
-together, which may be done on the plan explained in the articles
-on "Fumigation" and "Driving."</p>
-
-<p>A hive can very easily be weighed, if a Salter's Spring Balance
-be suspended near the apiary. The hive, having a strap or cord
-passed under and over it, and crossing at right angles on the top,
-may be hooked on to the balance, so that the weight will be indicated
-on the dial. The weight of the hive should be marked on it when
-empty, so that the exact amount of its contents may at any time be
-ascertained. A colony of bees at Michaelmas ought to weigh from
-20 to 24 pounds, that is, exclusive of the hive; if falling short
-of that weight, the hive should be made up to it by the artificial
-means before recommended.</p>
-
-<p>Experienced apiarians are able to judge of the weight of a hive
-by lifting it a few inches from the stand; or by looking in at the
-windows of a stock hive, a conclusive opinion may be formed as to
-the state of the colony. If the combs within view be well filled
-and sealed, it will be safe to consider that the hive contains
-sufficient stores to carry the bees through the winter.</p>
-
-
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="V_MISCELLANEOUS_INFORMATION">V. MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION.</h2>
-</div>
-
-
-<p id="STINGS" class="caption3">STINGS: THEIR PREVENTION AND CURE.</p>
-
-<p>Some of our readers may deem us neglectful in having, as it were,
-left them to struggle through their bee-keeping novitiate without informing
-them how to avoid being stung by their docile but well armed
-flock. Of course, having described the bee-dress, we have supposed
-that the apiarian was clad, if not "in complete steel," at least,
-in the head-gear and gloves, which will render him invulnerable.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_89">- 89 -</span>
-The best safeguard from the anger of bees&mdash;as indeed from the malice
-of men&mdash;is a quiet and peaceable spirit. The apiarian will learn to
-handle his bees not only as "if he loved them,"&mdash;as the quaint
-angler says&mdash;but as if he fully believes that the bees love him.
-This they will do whenever he approaches and treats them gently.
-There are some cases of exception to this generally peaceable disposition
-of the bee; sometimes a few bees are dyspeptic, and
-refuse to be pacified&mdash;let their master seek to bribe them never so
-wisely. Then, too, sometimes the bee-master himself may be
-dyspeptic, which the unerring olfactory sense of the bees speedily
-detects, and their anger is immediately aroused. Some few persons,
-owing to constitutional peculiarities in their breath or insensible
-perspiration, are objects of constant animosity with bees, who by
-driving them from the apiary, are giving a physician's advice without
-charge for a fee. Some of the choicest perfumes used by ladies are
-offensive to bees: and one may feel very certain that the "fine puss
-gentleman," who disgusted the brave Hotspur with his "pouncet
-box" and praise of "'parmaceti for an inward bruise," would
-have been speedily driven from an apiary in ignominious flight.
-Occasionally, even a skilful apiarian may inadvertently crush a single
-bee; such a mischance is detected by the community with much
-more facility than by any "crowner's quest," and their prompt
-verdict decrees the summary punishment of the offender. There
-would be much less fear of stings if it were always remembered
-that bees are never aggressive. "Defence, not defiance," is their
-motto. They scarcely ever attempt to sting when away from the
-hive, and very seldom indeed at the time of swarming, for then they
-are gorged with honey. When molested by angry bees, the safest
-and best retreat is a green bush. Thrust your head into this, and
-the bees will soon leave you.</p>
-
-<p>Yet some people appear to think they must inevitably be stung
-if they meddle with bees; and for their sakes it is needful to
-explain why it is that a sting is painful, and how the wound
-inflicted by the bee may be cured. Those familiar with the usual
-microscopic objects will know how marvellously delicate, and yet
-effective, is the mechanical structure of a bee's sting. This weapon
-as we see it with our naked eye&mdash;finer than a needle's point&mdash;is
-only the sheath, which lengthens or contracts like the tubes of
-a telescope. From the sheath is projected the dart, which is double,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_90">- 90 -</span>
-each half of it piercing alternately deeper into the wound made by
-the sheath. The dart is barbed on each side, so that the bee when
-very angry is scarcely ever able to withdraw it:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"Deems life itself to vengeance well resigned;</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Dies on the wound, and leaves the sting behind."</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>If the patient who receives the sting could only take it patiently,
-it would not prove half the inconvenience to him that often is the
-case. There are indeed some happy mortals whose "blood such an
-even tenour keeps," that a bee-sting is to them simply a puncture,
-and nothing more. Dr. Bevan has suggested that lovers should
-subject themselves to the ordeal of a bee-sting, in order to prove,
-we suppose, that their temper is proof against "the <i>stings</i> and
-arrows of any outrageous fortune" that matrimony can bring.</p>
-
-<p>It is the hom&#339;pathically minute tincture of poison injected by the
-bee which causes inflammation. The first thing to do is to remove the
-sting, which, even when detached from the bee, will continue to penetrate
-still further into the wound. Next, press the hollow point of a
-watch-key exactly over the place stung; this will express a considerable
-portion of the virus. Then dip the hand or bathe the part with
-cold or tepid water, for the poison is volatile, and will thereby be
-dissipated to a great extent. On no account whatever should the part
-affected be rubbed; to do that will diffuse the poison, and increase the
-inflammation. The specific remedy for a bee-sting is taught us by
-chemistry: the venom is an acid, which an alkali will immediately
-neutralize when brought into contact with it. Spirits of hartshorn
-will generally be found effectual for the purpose, and should
-always be kept in an apiary. There are also several other remedies,
-more or less effectual, according to the special constitution of the
-patient. A strong infusion of tobacco water applied to the wound
-after the sting has been extracted, is a specific for many persons;
-others find relief from the application of a sliced onion.</p>
-
-<p>We have heard the remark from several who have kept bees for
-years, that the poison from a sting has little or no effect on them;
-after receiving many inflictions, their flesh appears to become
-so little affected that the swelling and pain at one time experienced
-no longer trouble them.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_91">- 91 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="POLLEN" class="caption3">POLLEN; OR, FOOD FOR INFANT BEES.</p>
-
-<p>Bees, when fully grown, feed almost wholly on honey; but the
-larv&aelig; require for their development a more substantial kind of
-nourishment. Such solid fare is found by the bees in the pollen of
-flowers, a farina which contains some of those nitrogenous elements
-in which honey is deficient. The body of a worker-bee is covered
-with hairs, to which the pollen adheres when, by contact with the
-bee, it is rubbed from the anthers and stamens of flowers. The bee
-with its fore legs then brushes it off, and moulds it into the pellet
-shape suitable for carrying it in the "baskets" or grooves on its
-thighs. Dewy mornings or humid bowers suit the bees for the
-gathering of the pollen. If the atmosphere be too dry for
-kneading it into pellets, they roll themselves in the blossoms,
-and trust to the good offices of the bees at home, who, on their
-return, brush off the farina into the cells intended for it, A
-portion of this "bee bread" is taken at once by the "nursing
-bees," which are supposed to subject it to some change before
-offering it to the larv&aelig;; but the greater part of the pollen is stored
-away, and sealed over in the cells for future use. In April and
-May the bees are frequently busy "all the day" in gathering
-pollen, and often one community of bees will collect about twenty
-pounds weight of "bee bread" in one season.</p>
-
-<p>One of the objects of the apiarian is to assist the bees in
-providing for the nurselings of the hive. A German pastor, <span class="smcap">Heer
-Dzierzon</span>, first suggested the plan of providing the bees with
-"unbolted rye meal" as a substitute for the farina of flowers.
-He had observed that, in early spring before the flowers were open,
-his bees had entered a neighbouring corn mill, from whence they
-returned laden with rye flour. Since his discovery, most bee-keepers
-in early spring place either rye or wheat meal near the
-apiaries; to this artificial store the bees repair by thousands, and
-seem to rollick in the enjoyment of so much plenty, many of them
-returning to the hive as dusty as millers. The object in thus
-supplying them is, that the brood may be rapidly brought forward
-and early swarming induced. In this way, 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 price.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_92">- 92 -</span></p>
-
-<p>In gathering pollen from flowers, bees are doing more than
-merely providing for their own community. Whilst humming
-through our gardens they are assisting to propagate our flowers,
-and their merry buzz in our orchards indicates that the blossoms of
-spring will in autumn fulfil their promise by abundance of fruit.
-In Mr. Darwin's remarkable work, "The Fertilization of Orchids,"
-the mystery of the fructification of flowers is scientifically explained;
-but before the subject was so fully understood, it was quite believed
-that bees in passing from flower to flower performed some important
-service. Owners of fruit trees have noticed, in a season generally
-unfavourable for the orchard, that if during only one fine forenoon
-the bees had spread freely amongst the blossoms of a particular
-tree, that it would prove more fruitful than its fellows. On this
-account the orchard is a good place for an apiary, for it seems&mdash;more
-abundant the honey, more plentiful will be the fruit. Bees
-bear the fructifying matter from one sex of flowers to the other,
-but they confine their attention to one kind of flower during each
-excursion: 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
-brown, according to the kind of flowers from which it has been
-gathered. The gathering of pollen, its use by the nursing bees,
-and the storing of it in the cells, afford to the bee-keeper opportunity
-for observations of exceeding interest.</p>
-
-
-<p id="PROPOLIS" class="caption3">PROPOLIS; OR, BEES' CEMENT.</p>
-
-<p>The old notion that wax is gathered by bees from flowers as
-they gather honey, has long since been set aside by the discoveries
-of Hornbostel and Huber. Wax is an oily substance secreted from
-the honey in the bodies of the bees, on which it forms in thin
-flakes. But there is "a resinous substance, very tenacious and
-semi-transparent," which is indispensable for the bees as a cement
-wherewith to fix their combs and fortify their hives against intruders,
-and this is "propolis." The bees, in working the propolis, often soften
-it by blending it with a portion of wax; but they have to extract
-it in its natural state directly from the bark and buds of certain
-trees. The bark of the willow, the leaf buds of the poplar and
-alder, and the unopened blossoms of the hollyhock, are very usual
-sources of propolis. In the case of a new swarm, as bees must
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_93">- 93 -</span>
-have this glue before they can begin to build their combs, they
-will resort to most unlikely places to obtain it. Sometimes they
-will enter a paint shop and attack the varnish, and it is said they
-have been seen to obtain propolis from the pitch and rigging of a
-ship. These circumstances afford intelligible hints to the apiarian,
-who, if his bees have not easy access to firs, poplars, or willows,
-will provide some glutinous or resinous matter which may serve for
-a substitute. The extracting of the propolis costs the bees very
-considerable labour, which they should be relieved of as much as
-possible, in order to facilitate their great work of honey gathering.
-Bees choose the warmer part of the day during which to gather
-propolis, as then it does not so rapidly stiffen. Frequently when
-they arrive at the hive it has become so hard that the other bees
-are scarcely able to gnaw it from their thighs.</p>
-
-<p>With propolis bees fasten down their hives, stop up crevices to
-exclude moths and ants, and sometimes use it to narrow the
-entrance of their hive against the invasion of wasps. Extraordinary
-anecdotes are told of the prompt and ingenious use they make of
-this substance. Reaumur relates that a snail having been observed
-by the bees on the window of the hive, they proceeded to glue the
-shell to the glass, and there sealed down the intruder in hopeless
-durance. In another case, that of a slug, or snail without a shell,
-the bees having slain it with their stings, were quite unable to
-remove it from the hive. With wonderful foresight, they then
-proceeded to secure their community from the noxious effects likely
-to arise from the decay of the carcase; and this they did by
-completely enveloping it with a coating of impervious varnish.
-Huish relates a similar occurrence in the case of a mouse caught
-in a hive by bees. Propolis yields benzoic acid, and contains
-some aromatic properties.</p>
-
-
-
-<p id="PASTURAGE" class="caption3">PASTURAGE FOR BEES.</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"Bees work for man; and yet they never bruise</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Their master's flower, but leave it, having done,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">As fair as ever, and as fit for use"</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>Apiarians generally agree in the opinion that very little can be
-done in the way of providing any special forage for bees. Yet bee-fanciers
-are always interested in observing which the flowers are<span class="pagenum" id="Page_94">- 94 -</span>
-that the bees prefer; and there are certain well established conclusions
-as to the kind of district and season which are the likeliest to
-produce a good honey harvest. There is an old saying that a
-country which produces the finest wool also yields the best honey;
-and a pastoral district is decidedly better than one under tillage.
-The principle of the matter is, that the bees are best suited with a
-long dry season&mdash;an early spring, a hot summer, and a late autumn.
-As not one of these blessings can be commanded by the apiarian,
-his art must be applied to provide some mitigation of the injury
-suffered by the bees when the season is short or wet. For early
-spring, the crocus, the blue hepatica, and the violet, all afford good
-supplies of honey, and if cultivated near the apiary, will be of great
-service when the wild flowers are backward. All varieties of the
-willow and poplar furnish early supplies of honey, as well as of the
-propolis of which we have spoken; the blossoms of the gooseberry
-and currant are very useful for the bees in May. Wet, when it
-enters flowers of any kind, prevents the proboscis of the bee from
-reaching the secret source of honey. On this account, it is well
-to know, as does the bee, that the drooping blossoms of the raspberry
-escape the effect of the showers, and honey is gathered from
-them when other flowers are drenched within as well as without.
-For a similar reason, the borage (<i>borago officinalis</i>) is valuable for
-bees; and, also, because that plant continues to flower until the frosts
-set in. The honey both from raspberry blossoms and borage is very
-superior. Mr. Langstroth says that "the precipitous and rocky
-lands of New England, which abound with the wild red raspberry,
-might be made almost as valuable as some of the vine-clad terraces
-of the mountain districts of Europe." The "golden rod," and also
-asters, afford superior honey for autumn gathering. Dzierzon
-strongly recommends buck-wheat being sown in the winter stubbles
-on behalf of the bees, and he tries hard to persuade farmers that it
-is to their interest to cultivate it. It should be named that all the
-ordinary fruit blossoms, especially those of the apple, supply
-abundant store for bees.</p>
-
-<p>It is, however, to wild or field flowers that the bee-master must
-chiefly look for the raw material on which his myriad artisans shall
-exert their skill. The white clover of the pasture&mdash;the wild thyme on
-the hill&mdash;the heather on the moors&mdash;the furze and the broom on the
-sandy waste&mdash;offer exhaustless stores for a greater number of bees
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_95">- 95 -</span>
-than can ever be located near them. There are also two or three
-peculiar sources of honey which one would not have suspected, as, for
-instance the blossoms of the onion plant, of turnips, and in still
-greater degree, the flower of the mustard plant. In those districts of
-England where mustard seed is cultivated so extensively, it would
-be well worth while for the farmers to keep large colonies of bees.
-Another, but a very uncertain source of honey, is the "honey-dew,"
-which in some seasons appears in large quantities on the leaves of
-the oak, the lime, and some other trees.</p>
-
-<p>It is important to mention that bees in the principal breeding
-season require a plentiful supply of water. Owing either to their
-carelessness or eagerness, they are frequently drowned when
-drinking from any large quantity of water; the bee-keeper should,
-therefore, place near the hives shallow vessels of water containing
-pebbles, on which the bees may alight to take frequent but
-temperate draughts.</p>
-
-
-<p id="LIGURIAN" class="caption3">THE LIGURIAN OR ITALIAN ALP-BEE.</p>
-
-<p>A new, or rather a re-discovered, variety of bee has recently
-been brought into practical use amongst apiarians in Germany and
-America, as well as in this country. The ordinary bee is the <i>Apis
-Mellifica</i> of naturalists; the new kind is the <i>Apis Ligustica</i>. It
-was also named "The Ligurian Bee" by the Marquis de Spinola,
-who found it in Piedmont in 1805; and he considered it to be the
-principal species known to the Greeks, who speak of the "best
-kind" of bee as being of a red colour. Leading apiarians agree in
-pronouncing these bees to be justly entitled to the high character
-given to them. Their special advantages are&mdash;greater fecundity of
-the queens, less irascibility, and a more handsome appearance,
-for being of a golden colour, they are prettier than our black bees.</p>
-
-<p>Our own experience with the Italian Alp-bee enables us to
-corroborate the statements which have been made in favour of this
-new variety. We find the queens more prolific than those of the
-common kind, and the quantity of honey produced is greater.
-These two facts stand as cause and effect; the bees being multiplied
-more quickly, the store of honey is accumulated more rapidly, and
-the Italian bees consume, if anything, less food than the common
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_96">- 96 -</span>
-kind. When of pure Italian blood, these bees are by some apiarians
-thought to be hardier than our own. That they forage for stores with
-greater eagerness, and have little hesitation in paying visits to other
-hives, we can testify from our own observation. The following
-anecdote will illustrate their intrusive propensities. Another bee-keeper
-living in the neighbourhood of our apiary, when inspecting
-our hives, observed the yellow bees; he exclaimed, "Now I have
-found out where those strange-looking bees come from; for," said
-he, "these yellow-jackets are incessant visitors to my hives. I
-thought they were a species of wasps that had come to rob, and
-until now I have been unable to account for their appearance at
-the entrance of my hive, so that I have killed them by hundreds."
-This was not at all pleasing intelligence for us, and we trust that
-our neighbour has been more lenient to "the yellow-jackets" since
-his visit. We are inclined to believe that more visiting takes
-place amongst bees of different hives than bee-keepers have been
-accustomed to suppose; where the Italian and black bees are kept
-near each other, the foreigners being conspicuous by their lighter
-colour, there is less difficulty in identifying them when at the
-entrances of other hives.</p>
-
-<p>This season (1864) we have had more honey from a Ligurian
-stock than from any one of our colonies of black bees. From this
-Ligurian hive we have taken a glass super containing 40 lbs. nett
-of honey, besides having drawn from it an artificial swarm; and,
-after all, it remains the strongest hive in our apiary.</p>
-
-<p>The Baron Von Berlepsch and Pastor Dzierzon, who are probably
-the two most intelligent and skilful bee-keepers of Germany, award
-to the Italian a very decided preference over the common bees. The
-Baron says that he has found:&mdash;1. That the Italian bees are less
-sensitive to cold than the common kind. 2. That their queens
-are more prolific. 3. That the colonies swarm earlier and more
-frequently. 4. That they are less apt to sting. 5. They are more
-industrious. 6. That they are more disposed to rob than common
-bees, and more courageous and active in self defence. They strive,
-whenever opportunity offers, to force their way into colonies of
-common bees; but when strange bees attack their hives, they fight
-with great fierceness, and with incredible adroitness.</p>
-
-<p>It is said, that the Italian bee can extract honey from some
-flowers which the common bee is unable to penetrate. For instance,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_97">- 97 -</span>
-the blossom tubes of the red clover being too deep for the proboscis
-of the common bee, that flower is useless to them, although so
-plentiful; but, says Mr. Langstroth, the American apiarian, the
-Italian bee visits the red clover assiduously, and draws large
-quantities of honey from it.<a id="FNanchor_7" href="#Footnote_7" class="fnanchor">[7]</a></p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_7" href="#FNanchor_7" class="label">[7]</a> This opinion is not held by the closest observer of Italian bees in
-England.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>The introduction of this new variety of bee into England
-was through our agency. M. Hermann, a bee cultivator at
-Tamins-by-Chur, Canton Grison, Switzerland, wrote to us on the
-5th July, 1859, offering to supply us with Italian Alp queen bees.
-This letter, or an extract from it, appeared in the current number
-of the <i>Journal of Horticulture</i>, (then called the <i>Cottage Gardener</i>,)
-a periodical that regularly opens its columns to apiarian subjects.
-Prior to this the <i>Italian Alp</i>, or as it has been named the
-"Ligurian" bee, was <span class="smcap">unknown in this country</span>, except to a few
-naturalists. The letter referred to attracted the attention of that
-intelligent apiarian T. W. Woodbury, Esq., now so well known as
-the "Devonshire Bee-keeper." On the 19th of July, that is a
-fortnight after Mr. Hermann's offer, we received a consignment of
-Italian Alp bees, being the first imported into England, with these,
-Mr. Woodbury also received one queen-bee and a few workers, which
-he introduced into a hive of English bees from which the queen had
-been taken. His efforts were very successful, and "the spring of
-1860 found him in possession of four Ligurianized stocks." His
-subsequent experience with the Italian Alp bee he has fully
-described in a communication to <i>The Bath and West of England
-Agricultural Journal</i>.</p>
-
-<p>Subsequently Mr. Hermann sent us a copy of his pamphlet
-entitled "The Italian Alp Bee; or, the <i>Gold Mine of Husbandry</i>,"
-with the request that we should have it translated from the German,
-and that copies of it should be printed in the English language.
-The pamphlet was speedily published by us, and although singular
-as a literary production, it may be useful for the advanced apiarian.</p>
-
-<p>Certainly the bees are partially of an orange or golden colour,
-and if one could believe the golden anticipations indulged in by
-Mr. Hermann respecting them, it would be sufficient to identify
-the Italian Alp bee as the species described by Hood in Miss
-Kilmansegg;&mdash;those which dwelt in</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_98">- 98 -</span></p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"A golden hive, on a golden bank,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Where golden bees, by alchemical prank,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Gather gold instead of honey."</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>Poor Hermann himself did not profit by the discovery of the mine.
-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 prison. By the latest accounts we learn that&mdash;his
-ardent spirit chafing against his incarceration,&mdash;he had made an
-attempt to escape, and in doing so, fell from the prison walls and
-broke both legs. We understand that he has since died.</p>
-
-<p>In the pamphlet referred to, Mr. Hermann gives the following
-description of what he insists on designating as <i>Apis Helvetica</i>:&mdash;
-"The yellow Italian Alp-bee is a mountain insect; it is found
-between two mountain chains to the right and left of Lombardy
-and the Rhetian Alps, and comprises the whole territory of Tessins,
-Veltlin, and South-Graubunden. It thrives up to the height of
-4,500 feet above the level of the sea, and appears to prefer the
-northern clime to the warmer, for in the south of Italy it is not
-found. The Alps are their native country, therefore they are called
-<i>Yellow Alp-bee</i>, or tame house bees, in contra distinction to the
-black European bees, whom we might call common forest bees,
-and who, on the slightest touch, fly like lightning into your
-face.(?)</p>
-
-<p>"As all good and noble things in the world are more scarce
-than common ones, so there are more common black bees than of
-the noble yellow race, which latter inhabit only a very small piece
-of country, while the black ones are at home everywhere in Europe,
-and even in America."</p>
-
-<p>Notwithstanding the death of M. Hermann, we shall in future
-be able to supply all bee-keepers, who may wish to possess stocks
-of the genuine yellow Alpine bees.</p>
-
-<p>The Italian varies but little from the common bees in its
-physical characteristics. The difference in appearance consists in
-the first rings of the abdomen, except the posterior edge, and
-the base of the third&mdash;being of an orange colour instead of a
-deep brown. These orange coloured parts are transparent when
-closely examined with the sun shining on them. The Italian bees
-are more active than common bees when on the wing.</p>
-
-<p>During the summers of 1859 and 1860 we had over from the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_99">- 99 -</span>
-Continent a great number of Ligurian queens; these were sent to
-all parts of the kingdom. We regret to say that but few were
-successfully united to English stocks. It requires a considerable
-amount of apiarian skill to accomplish the union, so that we find
-by experience it is best to send out complete Ligurian stocks. This
-is particularly desirable now that the packing of whole hives is so
-easily accomplished by us with the aid of bars and frames. We
-have sent a great number of stocks to all parts by rail.</p>
-
-<p>Mr. Woodbury, owing to his knowledge and skill in bee-keeping,
-was eminently successful in propagating the Ligurian
-bees first imported into this country; and we would recommend all
-who may be interested in the subject, to peruse the interesting
-articles written by him in the <i>Journal of Horticulture</i>. He has
-shown great patience and energy by his labours in the rearing of
-queens and the multiplication of stocks, for which he merits all
-praise. On the other hand, Mr. Woodbury has to thank the
-Ligurian bees for the development of his own skill, for although
-prior to this he was a valued correspondent to the before named
-Journal, his commencement of scientific bee-keeping must be dated
-from the time of their introduction.</p>
-
-<p>We now add to the other testimonies already cited, that of Mr.
-Woodbury as to the superior qualities of the Ligurian bees. The
-following is extracted from a paper contributed by him to the <i>Bath
-and West of England Agricultural Journal</i>:&mdash;"From my strongest
-Ligurian stock I took eight artificial swarms in the spring, besides
-depriving it of numerous brood-combs. 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 egg, I was reluctantly compelled to
-put on a super. When this had been filled with. 88 lbs. of the
-finest honey-comb,<a id="FNanchor_8" href="#Footnote_8" class="fnanchor">[8]</a> I removed it, and as the stock-hive (a very
-large one) could not contain the multitude of bees which issued
-from it, I formed them into another very large artificial swarm.
-The foregoing facts speak for themselves; but as information on
-this point has been very generally asked, 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 with."</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_8" href="#FNanchor_8" class="label">[8]</a> This super was exhibited at our stand in the International Exhibition
-of 1862.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_100">- 100 -</span></p>
-
-<p>After such decided testimony as this, corroborated, as it is, by
-many other observers, there seems every reason to expect that the
-Ligurian bee will gradually supersede the common kind throughout
-the United Kingdom.</p>
-
-<p id="LIVING_BEES" class="caption3">LIVING BEES AT THE INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION
-OF 1862, SENDING BEES TO AUSTRALIA, &amp;c.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page100" style="width: 478px;">
- <img src="images/page100.png" width="478" height="663" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_101">- 101 -</span></p>
-
-<p>The engraving represents our stand in the Agricultural
-Department of the International Exhibition of 1862. The space
-granted us in the World's great Fair was somewhat limited; but
-we were able to exhibit a tolerably complete stock of apiarian
-apparatus and all the more important bee-hives. Amongst these
-was a Unicomb Hive stocked with the Yellow Alpine or "Ligurian"
-bee. This was an object of great attention, and daily hundreds of
-visitors flocked round our stand in order to watch the movements
-of the Italian queen with her gay and busy subjects. The entrance
-way for the bees being in the "Open Court," to which all visitors
-had access, it was necessary to place the hive in an elevated position,
-so as for it to be beyond the reach of incautious passers by, and to
-obviate any chance of annoyance to the vast crowds of people continually
-around.</p>
-
-<p>Among others who took a deep interest in our exhibition, was
-Mr. Edward Wilson, President of the Acclimatisation Society of
-Victoria. This gentleman requested us to pack four stocks of the
-Ligurian bees for conveyance to Melbourne. With the assistance
-of Mr. Woodbury&mdash;whose aid was, indeed, essential&mdash;these stocks
-were sent off on the 25th of September, 1862, by the steam
-ship Alhambra, so as to arrive at the colony during the Austral
-summer. The hives were Woodbury-frame hives, having ample
-space and ventilation, as well as the means of supplying water to
-their inmates during the voyage; there was, also, a sufficient store
-of honey to last until the following March. The bees arrived at
-Melbourne, where they were released after an imprisonment of
-seventy nine days, and have since rapidly multiplied, the climate
-and pasturage of Australia greatly favouring the increase of this
-superior variety of the bee.</p>
-
-<p>Mr. Wilson was so well pleased with the careful manner in
-which these stocks were fitted out for their voyage across the seas,
-that he subsequently instructed us to prepare him three more hives,
-which were sent out in a sailing vessel. Owing to the mismanagement
-of the water supply during the voyage, only one stock
-survived in this instance.</p>
-
-<p>Upwards of twenty years ago, we sent a Nutt's Hive stocked
-with bees to New Zealand. We then adopted the plan of fixing
-the hive in a meat safe, so that the bees could fly about a little, and
-also cleanse the hive of their dead, for bees are very attentive to
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_102">- 102 -</span>
-sanitary arrangements; they always remove the dead ones from
-their midst, and do not void excrement within the hive.</p>
-
-<p>When bees are shut up in their hives too long, they are apt to
-be attacked by a disease called by apiarians&mdash;dysentery. Sometimes
-when confined by the unfavourableness of the weather in winter
-or the lateness of spring, this disease produces serious mischief
-amongst the bees. Various remedies have been recommended;
-but we believe the best is to see that there is wholesome food
-within the hive, and plenty of it, and when fine weather returns,
-the health of the bees will return with it. Dampness of the hives,
-and too late feeding in the autumn, are also frequent causes of
-this disease.</p>
-
-
-<p id="BEE_KEEPING" class="caption3">BEE-KEEPING IN LONDON.</p>
-
-<p>There are many persons now in this noisy city pent, who frequently
-remember the days of childhood when, among pastures of clover or
-amidst flowery heath and woodlands, they listened to the cheerful hum
-of bees. Partly from a desire to revive those old associations, and
-also from a natural liking for the tendance of living creatures, 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 success. We do not wonder
-that many should doubt even the possibility of bees feeding themselves
-amidst such an "endless meal of brick;" but we can easily
-prove that bees, if not placed too near to smoky chimneys, are able
-to produce honey, both for themselves and for their masters. To
-make this plain, we will mention some special instances of metropolitan
-bee-keeping.</p>
-
-<p>About ninety years ago, a Mr. Wildman kept a bee-house and
-honey warehouse near to Middle Row, Holborn. He was not only
-a tradesman, but was also the apiarian of his day. He kept hives
-of thriving bees on the roof of his house in Holborn, and many of
-the nobility and gentry used to mount thither in order to inspect
-the apiary. At that period, St. Pancras was a "village two miles
-north-west of London," and what is now the Regent's Park was
-open country. It was then much easier for London bees to find
-their favourite forage, but Mr. Wildman believed that his hives
-were filled with stores from a considerable distance. Whilst
-enjoying his country rambles on Hampstead Heath, he had a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_103">- 103 -</span>
-shrewd suspicion that many of the bees he there observed gathering
-honey were Labourers from his own apiary. In order to identify
-his own flock amongst the rest, he hit upon a homely but very
-effective expedient. Having borrowed Mrs. Wildman's "dredging
-box," he stationed himself near the entrance of his hives, and
-gently dusted his bees with flour as they issued forth. He then
-betook himself to Hampstead, where he found his previous surmise
-confirmed, for there were numbers of his bees in their livery of
-white.</p>
-
-<p>Wildman became noted for the remarkable control he obtained
-over his bees, many instances of which he exhibited before the
-public. Many of his operations with them were regarded as feats
-of legerdemain by the uninitiated, as when he appeared before
-the king George III. with a swarm of bees hanging in festoons
-from his chin, or suspended in a cluster at arm's length. The
-Journal of Horticulture recently, in alluding to Wildman, gives the
-following particulars as to his performances:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>Near the "Three Hats," Islington, was a place of popular entertainment
-called "Dobney's Tea Gardens," kept by Mrs. Ann Dobney. These gardens
-occupied the ground between White Lion Street and Winchester Place, and
-were established as far back as 1728. In 1771 the house was taken for a
-short time as a boarding school; but it was soon changed to its original
-purpose as a place of amusement, for in 1772 Daniel Wildman exhibited bees
-here. This is a copy of the advertisement:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p>"June 20, 1772. Exhibition of bees on horseback! at the Jubilee
-Gardens, Islington, (late Dobney's), this and every evening until further
-notice (wet evenings excepted.)</p>
-
-<p>"The celebrated Daniel Wildman will exhibit several new and amazing
-experiments, never attempted by any man in this or any other kingdom before.
-The rider standing upright, one foot on the saddle and one on the neck, with
-a mask of bees on his head and face. He also rides standing upright on the
-saddle with the bridle in his mouth, and by firing a pistol, makes one part of
-the bees march over the table, and the other swarm in the air and return to
-their hive again, with other performances too tedious to insert. The doors
-open at six; to begin at a quarter before seven. Admittance:&mdash;Box and
-gallery, 2s.; the other seats. 1s."</p>
-</div>
-
-<p>The secret of Wildman's skilful manipulation is well understood
-now; it consisted in a careful holding and disposal of the queen,
-together with confidence in the generally inoffensive disposition of
-bees. Dr. Evans, whom we have often quoted for his correct
-information in apiarian matters, thus speaks of his feats:&mdash;</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_104">- 104 -</span></p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"Such was the spell which, round a Wildman's arm.</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Twined in dark wreaths the fascinated swarm;</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Bright o'er his breast the glittering legions led.</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Or with a living garland bound his head.</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">His dextrous hand, with firm yet hurtless hold,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Could seize the chief, known by her scales of gold,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Prune, 'mid the wondering train, her filmy wing.</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">Or o'er her folds the silken fetter fling."</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>To recur to our subject. After the days of Wildman, our own
-establishment in Holborn became widely known for bee hives and
-honey. Although we never attempted to start a London apiary
-at all approaching in extent that of our predecessor, we have
-occasionally kept bees on the house top both in Holborn and
-Regent Street. At both those situations, we have noticed that the
-bees bring "pollen" as well as honey into their hives. Last summer
-there was brought under our notice an illustration of the acuteness
-of the scent of bees, and of their diligent search for food, proving
-too that if sweets can be obtained even from unusual sources, the
-bees will find them out. A poor woman who, at the corner of an
-adjacent street vends "brandy balls," "toffee," "rock," and other
-saccharine compounds&mdash;all well known to and appreciated by most
-juveniles,&mdash;used to receive frequent visits from our bees. Their
-visits to the old dame's domain were at first rather interesting, and
-if the few pioneers who had the sagacity to find such a store had
-kept the secret only to themselves, their company would not have
-been objected to. Such selfish policy does not, however, accord
-with the social instinct of bees, and these soon informed their
-companions of the good fortune provided for them in an archipelago
-of sugar islands. Day by day the swarms of these uninvited visitors
-increased, until all legitimate customers were beaten off; and the
-old dame had to see, not only her hope of gain destroyed, but her
-stock of "goodies" sensibly diminishing by the thefts of these
-brigands of the air. She could not, or dare not attempt to, drive
-the intruders away, so made diligent enquiry as to where the
-robbers were harboured. Having traced them to our establishment
-in Regent Street, she came to implore of us to move the bees if
-possible, or she would have to move her stall, and so lose her
-"connection" in the "toffee" and "rock" trade. Wishing not
-to hinder the poor woman in gaining her livelihood, we decided on
-removing our bees into the country.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_105">- 105 -</span></p>
-
-<p>It is difficult to assign an exact limit to the distance that bees
-will go in search of honey yielding blossoms. It has been proved
-by various experiments that they will fly say five or six miles, if the
-supplies are scanty within a shorter radius; but bees well understand
-that first of all economies,&mdash;the saving of time, and if they can
-find forage near at hand, they prefer it. Hence, other things being
-equal, the quantity of honey stored will be in proportion to the
-contiguity of good pasturage. In this way it is that the systematic
-removal of hives, as practiced in many districts, has such a notable
-effect on the honey harvest.</p>
-
-<p>During several years we kept bees in the Zoological Gardens,
-Regent's Park, and have there frequently taken full and handsome
-glasses of honey. The position of our apiary was on the site now
-occupied by the "New Monkey House." The Society promise to
-erect a new building for an apiary in the course of the ensuing
-summer. The visitors to the Gardens found considerable interest
-in watching the bees in our glass hives, and are now much
-disappointed at the absence of so entertaining an exhibition.</p>
-
-<p>A gentleman residing in St. James's Place, has for some
-considerable time past kept bees in his garden there. He uses
-our improved cottage hives, and his bee-keeping is decidedly
-successful as he generally takes some fine glasses of honey each
-season, besides leaving sufficient as winter store for the bees. For
-a London situation, St. James's Place is a very favourable one;
-the gardens behind the houses pleasantly face the Green Park, so
-that the bees have an uninterrupted flight to start with. 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 Parks. To those gardens the bees of St. James's Place resort,
-without waiting for any license or certificate from the royal and
-noble owners of the honey yielding preserves. Being within a
-short distance of our establishment, when this gentleman's bees
-swarm he generally sends to us for assistance in hiving them.</p>
-
-<p>The neighbourhood of St. John's Wood, and indeed almost all
-the suburbs of London, are favourable for the production of honey.
-We mention St. John's Wood because, from the fact of having
-kept bees there ourselves, we are able to prove by our experience
-that they do well in that locality. We have several customers on
-nearly all sides of the town, who have each had this year a
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_106">- 106 -</span>
-considerable surplus of honey in their "supers," after leaving
-sufficient for the bees themselves in the lower or stock hives.</p>
-
-<p>We exhibited in our window last autumn a super of fine
-honey from the apiary of Shirley Hibberd, Esq., the proprietor and
-editor of the <i>Gardiner's Weekly Magazine</i>. It is a box containing
-20 lbs. nett weight of honey, and was produced at Stoke Newington,
-only 3&frac14; miles from the General Post Office.</p>
-
-<p>The <i>Times</i> "Bee-Master," whose letters from Tunbridge Wells
-have awakened so much interest in this pleasing pursuit, also
-commissioned us to exhibit a "super," produced under his own
-management in that locality. A friend of ours at Exeter had
-upwards of 400 lbs. of honey, of excellent quality, though one
-of his apiaries is quite within the city.</p>
-
-<p>The last has been an excellent honey yielding season; our own
-bees, at Dorking, in Surrey, have produced us large quantities, and
-the accounts from nearly all parts of the country coincide in stating
-that the bees have in the year, 1864, enjoyed unusual opportunities
-for accumulation. In not a few localities, the season of 1863 was
-even more abundant.</p>
-
-<p id="WASP_MOTHS" class="caption3">WASPS AND MOTHS.</p>
-
-<p>Bees have few enemies more formidable than wasps. The most
-effectual method of checking their invasion of hives, is to have as
-narrow an entrance as the bees can do with. If a stock be not
-very weak in numbers, the bees will be well able to guard a small
-aperture, and can repel the attacks of those insidious and merciless
-robbers. On this account, the entrance to our No. 5 hive as
-described at <a href="#Page_31">page 31</a>, may be used.</p>
-
-<p>The bee-keeper is interested in preventing the increase of
-wasps; it is, therefore, a good practice for him to set a price on
-queen wasps in the spring, the death of one of them at that time
-being equivalent to the destruction of a whole nest.</p>
-
-<p>Should nests be found in the neighbourhood of an apiary, their
-annihilation must be accomplished either by blowing them up with
-gunpowder, an operation well understood by most country lads;
-or any other effectual method. The late Mr. Payne recommended
-that a small quantity of gas tar should be put into the mouth of a
-wasp's nest, and if then covered with earth, the total destruction of
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_107">- 107 -</span>
-the wasps will be accomplished without further trouble. But to
-use blazing straw for the purpose is always dangerous in country
-districts. We have lately heard of a very ingenious and successful
-mode of entrapping and killing wasps. Place some sugar or
-strongly sweetened compound on the ground in a garden, and
-place over it a square hand glass, wedged up an inch or so all
-round. On this glass, which should have an opening at the
-apex, lodge another, but a sound one. The wasps, attracted by
-the sweets, will soon crowd under the lower glass, and when they
-have well feasted, will ascend into the upper one; there, between
-the two, they soon become scorched and perish by the heat of the
-sun shining on the outer glass.</p>
-
-<p>The season of 1864 was most productive for the increase of
-these prime pests of the apiary, and many hives have severely
-suffered by their depredations. When once wasps in any number
-have gained an entrance into a hive, the bees can seldom eject them,
-and the invaders generally remain until they have freely regaled
-themselves from the luscious store. They not only consume the
-honey, but cause a good deal of worry to the legitimate inhabitants
-of the hive, as well as killing the foremost defenders of it. Wasps
-being of so much superior strength, it requires, at least, three bees
-to master one of them.</p>
-
-<p>Having suffered loss in our own apiary from the attacks of
-wasps, we feel it desirable to give a detailed account of our own
-troubles from that cause. One of our Ligurian stocks was besieged
-and worried by wasps to such an extent, that the bees deserted it
-on the 5th of September, (1864). Fortunately, the bees chose a
-time for their departure just as we visited the apiary. An unusual
-turmoil was heard in the hive, such as is experienced at the time of
-swarming, and on immediately examining the entrance, we observed
-that the bees were quitting in tumultuous haste. The usual
-methods that induce bees to settle were tried&mdash;amongst others,
-that of throwing sand up into the air, so as it should fall down
-amongst the bees on the wing; but they were dispersed in disorder,
-and their flight extended over three adjacent gardens. We only
-discovered the clustered bees by diligent search, as the sequel will
-show. Permission being asked of our next door neighbour, we
-searched his garden to see if our bees had alighted there; but
-found that they had passed over. Making a similar application to
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_108">- 108 -</span>
-the owner of the garden adjoining, we entered, having a straw hive
-in hand, but no bees were there. After looking diligently all
-round, and climbing the wall, thereby gaining a view of the third
-garden, we perceived in it unmistakable signs of an unwonted
-commotion. The occupiers of the house were intently looking at a
-particular part of the garden, and there was a dustpan and a key,
-with which the master had been "tanging the bees" to induce them
-to settle. We quickly made for the proper entrance to the garden,
-and soon discovered our little wanderers clustered to a large flower
-vase. Our neighbours, however, were sadly disappointed of their
-prize, for the gardener had hastily been dispatched into the town
-to purchase a hive for the welcome colonists. In depriving our
-neighbours of so unexpected and cheaply acquired a treasure, we
-could sympathise with their regret, having been much disheartened
-half-an-hour before at our own loss; but, of course, we could do
-no other than claim our own bees. We gladly agreed to defray
-the expense of the straw hive that had been purchased for the sake
-of our truant swarm. After brushing the bees into the hive, and
-leaving it propped up with a stick, in order that the stray ones
-might join, we returned home for an hour or so, to give them time
-to settle. Judge of our vexation when on returning to fetch the
-hive home, we found that the refractory creatures had again
-taken flight, and that all the work was to do over again. The
-wasps were not to blame for this second flight of the Ligurians;
-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 house. Although much disheartened
-and perplexed, we at once renewed our search, and, upon enquiry,
-found that the missing bees had taken a southerly course across the
-turnpike road, and it was therefore necessary to ask permission to
-search the gardens of the houses opposite. From one of these we
-observed, on looking through the hedge, that the inhabitants of the
-next house were on the <i>qui vive</i>. On enquiring whether they had
-seen a colony of bees, the wary old dame replied that she "had no
-bees but her own," and added that "they were very much excited."
-Having asked permission to go through the hedge to look at her
-bees, we soon discovered our Ligurians on the top of the old lady's
-bee-house. There was no difficulty in identifying our own bees;
-their yellow rings were as good as a private mark. Quickly hiving
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_109">- 109 -</span>
-the swarm, we took them home, and replaced them in the hive they
-had quitted. It was almost destitute of honey; but by liberal
-feeding, and lessening the entrance so that only one bee at a time
-could find ingress or egress, we succeeded in inducing them to rest
-in their old home. Thus nearly half a day's exertion was needed
-to save a fine colony, which would otherwise have been utterly lost
-by the power of the relentless wasps.</p>
-
-<p>Much watchfulness is needed to prevent the loss of swarms, and
-the foregoing incident may serve to suggest the necessity of
-having hives so located as to be constantly within view, either from
-the dining room, or of those whose duties oblige them to be near
-the apiary. If we had not happened to be at hand at the moment
-this colony started, it would have been irretrievably lost to us.
-Many swarms and colonies are lost simply because the departure
-takes place without any one witnessing it. 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 described.</p>
-
-<p>Another formidable enemy of bees are the moths. These insects
-are creatures of the night, as the bees of the day, and they make
-their way into the hives under cover of darkness, in spite of the bee-sentinels.
-They deposit their eggs in any crevices in or near the
-hive that they can find. There the warmth of the hive or of the
-sheltered situation, causes the eggs speedily to hatch, and then the
-maggots soon work their way to the comb and larv&aelig; food, which
-they greedily devour, thereby often bringing about the gradual but
-certain destruction of the whole community of bees. The best way
-of keeping moths outside the hives is to lessen the entrance, as
-before alluded to. Also, in the early spring, the hives should be lifted
-from their floorboards, which must then be made thoroughly clean,
-and all crevices and corners about the hive and stand should be
-scraped, so as to get rid of all eggs of moths and other insects
-before the warm weather hatches them or enables them to do
-mischief. The bee-moth is not so troublesome in England as it is
-in America and some parts of Germany; but still its encroachments
-should be carefully guarded against in this country, for if not, it
-may easily increase to a very serious extent.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_110">- 110 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p id="DRAINING" class="caption3">DRAINING HONEY FROM THE COMBS.</p>
-
-<p>Those of our readers who prefer eating "run honey" to honey
-in the comb, may be glad of some instruction as to the best way of
-separating the two. For this purpose, it is better to let the honey
-run without squeezing, in order to preserve both its transparency
-and flavour.</p>
-
-<p>Take a sharp knife, and slice the combs on both sides, keeping
-the knife parallel with the partition wall, so that every cell may be
-laid open. Place these broken combs in a sieve, or on a piece of
-muslin stretched across and tied round the opening of a pan or
-large mouthed jar. Allow the honey to flow out of the combs
-spontaneously, and reserve the squeezing process for a separate jar,
-so that the honey of the first drained jar may be perfectly pure,
-both in appearance and flavour. That which has pressure put on it
-will be waxy in flavour and thick. Some persons recommend that
-the opened combs be placed in the sun, as the heat will cause the
-honey to run more freely. The great disadvantage of this is, the
-temptation the honey will offer to bees, who will be eager to gain a
-share. Honey whilst in the combs keeps remarkably well when left
-in the supers; if cut out, the combs should be folded in writing
-paper and sealed up, so as effectually to prevent free entrance of
-air; they should then be placed in a warm dry closet.</p>
-
-<p>Honey, like most vegetable products, should be fresh every
-year. It may easily be kept from one season to another; but
-when kept beyond that time, unless very carefully stored in a
-warm temperature, it will crystallize in the comb, and it is liable to
-ferment when in jars separated from the comb.</p>
-
-
-<p id="GEN_REMARKS" class="caption3">GENERAL REMARKS.</p>
-
-<p>Every bee-keeper should be a book-keeper; that is, so far
-as to have a permanent record of the events of the apiary
-and the fortunes of his bees. A book similar to a tradesman's
-journal would be very suitable for the purpose. In it he should
-note down the date of the first swarm of the season especially, and
-those of the other swarms also; and in autumn, the quantity of
-honey taken from each hive should be entered, with remarks on the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_111">- 111 -</span>
-probable size of the various stocks. These particulars will not only
-be interesting for the bee-keeper to turn to in winter, but will be of
-practical service in enabling him to know the exact age and
-probable strength of each stock. The bee-book may also be contrived
-to show the total amount of honey that the bees have produced for
-their owner, and the net money profit of the apiary. A simple
-and clear account Like this&mdash;provided, by the bye, that it does
-show a satisfactory balance&mdash;will be very useful for inducing
-cottagers and farm labourers to start bee-keeping. Nothing like
-ocular demonstration for this class. The "humane" apiarian will
-reason with them in vain until he shows them a monster "skep" of
-honey, and mentions the price that it will fetch in the market.
-When convinced that the depriving system will pay, the cottager
-will gladly adopt it.</p>
-
-<p>A writer in the <i>Quarterly Review</i> gives the following good
-advice:&mdash;"Don't bore the cottager with long lectures; don't heap
-upon him many little books; but give him a hive of the best
-construction, show him the management, and then <i>buy his honey;</i>
-<i>buy</i> all he brings, even though you should have to give the surplus
-to some gardenless widow. But only buy such as comes from an
-improved hive&mdash;and you cannot easily be deceived in this,&mdash;one
-which preserves the bees and betters the honey. Then, <i>when you
-pay him</i>, you may read to him, if you will, the wise rules of old
-Butler," <i>exempli gratia</i>:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="blockquot">
-
-<p>"If thou wilt have the favour of thy bees that they sting thee not, thou
-must not be unchaste or uncleanly; thou must not come among them with a
-stinking breath, caused either through eating of leeks, onions, or garlic, or by
-any other means, the noisomeness whereof is corrected by a cup of beer; thou
-must not be given to surfeiting or drunkenness; thou must not come puffing
-or blowing unto them, neither hastily stir among them, nor violently defend
-thyself when they seem to threaten thee; but, softly moving by, thy hand
-before thy face, gently put them by; and, lastly, thou must be no stranger to
-them. In a word, (or rather, in five words,) be chaste, sweet, sober, quiet,
-familiar; so they will love thee and know thee from all others."</p>
-</div>
-
-<p>Allusion having been made to the profit that may be gained by
-the judicious management of bees, we will illustrate that point by
-relating an anecdote of a certain French <i>cur&eacute;</i>.<a id="FNanchor_9" href="#Footnote_9" class="fnanchor">[9]</a> It is one which<span class="pagenum" id="Page_112">- 112 -</span>
-may be suggestive to some of the rural clergy in this country, who
-might almost as easily keep an apiary as they do a garden or an
-orchard.</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_9" href="#FNanchor_9" class="label">[9]</a> This story, in a disguised form, or&mdash;as the writer would say&mdash;an improved
-form, was quoted in the Cornhill Magazine some time ago. In transforming
-the bee-keeping cure into an English clergyman the effect was cleverly</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p>A good French bishop, in paying his annual visit to his clergy,
-was very much afflicted by the representations they made to him of their
-extreme poverty, which indeed the appearance of their houses and
-families corroborated. Deploring the sad state of things which had
-reduced them to such a condition, he arrived at the house of a
-curate who, living amongst a poorer set of parishioners than any he
-had yet visited, would, he feared, be in a still more woful plight
-than the rest. Contrary, however, to his expectations, he found
-the appearance of this remote parsonage to be superior to those he
-had already visited. Everything about the house wore the aspect
-of comfort and plenty. The good bishop was amazed. "How is
-this, my friend," said he, "you are the first pastor I have met
-with having a cheerful face and a plentiful board! Have you any
-income independent of your cure?" "Yes, Sire," said the pastor,
-"I have: my family would starve on the pittance I receive from
-the poor people that I instruct. If you will walk into the garden,
-I will show you the stock that yields me such excellent interest."
-On going into the garden, he showed the bishop a long range of
-bee-hives. "There," said he, "is the bank from which I draw an
-annual dividend, and it is one that never stops payment." His
-harvest of honey enabled him almost to dispense with the use of
-sugar, leaving him a considerable quantity of it for disposal in the
-market; of the coarser portions he made a tolerable substitute for
-wine, and the sale of his wax nearly paid his shoemaker's bill.
-Ever afterwards, when any of the clergy complained to the bishop
-of poverty, he would say to them "Keep bees! keep bees!"
-In this succinct advice, extending it to laity as well as clergy in
-rural districts, we heartily join, believing that in this country a ten
-times greater number of hives might be successfully kept than are
-now established. In a very practical sense, the oft repeated lines
-of Gray are strictly true:&mdash;</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">"Full many a flower is born to blush unseen,</div>
- <div class="verse indent1">And waste its fragrance on the desert air."</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>enhanced, especially as to the dismay of the decorous English prelate in
-hearing that his poor brother in the Church had turned "manufacturer;" but
-then the <i>vraisemblance</i> of the story, as we have it, was destroyed.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_113">- 113 -</span>
-An apiary in the garden of every village clergyman would afford the
-means of economising this unclaimed bounty of Providence.</p>
-
-<p>Bees may be very inexpensively and profitably kept in the
-Cottager's hive (see <a href="#Page_34">page 34</a>), which will be found a very productive
-one. It is true that it has not the appliances of windows and bell
-glasses; for the cottager is not supposed so much to care for his
-hives as a source of amusement; his object in bee-keeping is simply
-the profit it may bring. For those of our readers who wish to have
-united the facility of observing the bees with that of the plentiful
-production of honey, we would especially recommend the "Improved
-Cottage" hive, described at <a href="#Page_28">page 28</a>. If inclined to go to a little
-further expense, the hives numbered 1, 2, 3, and 7, all afford
-constant opportunity for inspection of the bees, and allow of their
-working freely in the most natural manner.</p>
-
-<p>There are few hobbies which cost so little outlay as the keeping
-of bees. Once the "plant" of hives is purchased, there is little,
-if any, additional expense, and always a probability of a fair return.
-If honey be obtainable, the bees will find it; they work for nothing,
-and provide themselves with sustenance, requiring only a very
-little labour from their keepers, and that labour is of a pleasing and
-instructive kind.</p>
-
-<p>To the advanced and skilful apiarian we would especially
-commend the use of the Bar-and-frame hives. With these, as we
-have attempted to show, the bee-keeper has a full command over
-his hives and bees. Many mistakes, it is true, have been made by
-uninitiated bee-keepers in using the more elaborate hives. Being
-struck with the remarkable facilities afforded by these superior hives
-for the extraction of any one comb, and, perhaps, fascinated with their
-easy sway over so highly organized a community, these new-fangled
-bee-keepers have acquired a habit of perpetually and incautiously meddling
-with the bees. The inevitable results in such cases are distress
-to the bees, impoverishment of the stocks, and loss and vexation to
-the over zealous apiarian. All these things may be avoided, if it
-be remembered that there are first steps in bee-keeping, as well as in
-croquet, chemistry, or cricket. In bee-keeping, as in floriculture
-it is a great point to know when to "let well alone." There is no
-florist, however anxious for a prize, who would be continually
-pulling up his plants to see how their roots were growing. Doubtless,
-the full control which the bars and frames afford over the inmost
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_114">- 114 -</span>
-recesses of the hives, is a great temptation to the bee-keeper; but,
-if he yields too readily to it, he will imperil his chance of profit,
-and deprive himself of that continuous source of interest, which a
-judicious apiarian always enjoys.</p>
-
-<p>Many persons who are well informed on most subjects, are
-extraordinarily ignorant of the natural history of bees, and the
-economy of the bee-hive. Perhaps we might venture to suggest
-that, more pains should be taken at schools or by parents to inform
-young persons on this, in connection with kindred subjects. As an
-amusing illustration of the ignorance referred to, we transcribe an
-order we received a short time since from a seminary in the north
-of England. The young gentleman thus writes:&mdash;"Master &mdash;&mdash;
-presents his compliments to Messrs. Neighbour, and begs they will
-send him a swarm of bees; he encloses <i>six postage stamps</i>, and
-hopes they will send him a <i>good</i> swarm." This embryo naturalist
-was evidently of a mercantile turn, and had a mind to buy in
-the cheapest market, for in a postscript he adds:&mdash;"Please let it
-be fourpence, if you can!" We need scarcely say that in reply we
-endeavoured to enlighten our juvenile correspondent as to what
-constituted a swarm of bees, and returned the stamps, with our thanks.</p>
-
-<p>The culture of bees would be greatly promoted, if a knowledge
-of it were considered necessary as one of the regular qualifications
-of a gardener. So little time is needed to gain the skill requisite
-for the tendance of an apiary, that it seems only reasonable to
-expect it of a well taught gardener, and he should feel a pleasure in
-the circumstance of its forming a part of his duties. In Germany,
-where a country gentleman's table is kept constantly supplied with
-fresh honey, the gardeners are expected to understand the management
-of hives; and in Bavaria, modern bee culture is taught in the
-colleges to all the horticultural students. Travellers in Switzerland
-will call to mind the almost invariable practice of placing new honey
-on the breakfast tables at hotels in that country.</p>
-
-<p>Some writers on bee-culture attach much importance to the
-particular position in which an apiary stands, and the aspect
-towards which it faces. A southern, or rather a south-eastern
-aspect is the one which we have already recommended. Our reason
-for this preference is, that we deem it very important for the bees
-to have the first of the morning sun. Bees are early risers, and
-should have every inducement given them for the maintenance
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_115">- 115 -</span>
-of so excellent a practice. A few years since, many strong opinions
-were expressed in favour of a northern aspect for hives. The chief
-reason given for those opinions, though very plausible, appears to
-us to be a very partial and inadequate one. It was said that, when
-the hives face the south, the bees may, like the incautious
-swallow in the fable, be tempted to fly abroad in the transient
-winter sunshine, and then perish in the freezing atmosphere when a
-passing cloud intervenes. But it is a very easy matter, if considered
-needful, to screen the entrance by fixing up matting so as to intercept
-the rays of the sun. At our own apiary we make no alteration
-in winter, under the belief that the bees will take care of themselves,
-and they seldom venture out when the weather is unsuitable.</p>
-
-<p>With hives exposed in the open garden, it is a good practice to
-wind hay-bands round them in frosty weather, as such a protection
-enables the bees to resist the cold.</p>
-
-<p>When a thaw occurs, everything, both in and out of doors, has
-a great deal of dampness about it. The combs of a hive are not
-exempt from this, so that it is advisable to have slight upward
-ventilation in winter. Holes the size of a pin's head allow of the
-escape of a good deal of bad air, which is generated by the
-exhalations of the bees, as well as by the dampness before referred
-to. These holes being small, do not create sufficient draft through
-the hives to be pernicious; if closed up by propolis, are readily
-reopened with a pin. With wooden hives in winter, a bell glass is
-often found to be useful; it should be placed over the hole in the
-crown-board, with a zinc trough to receive the condensed moisture.</p>
-
-<p>In summer bees do much towards ventilating their own stock-hives.
-The observant apiarian will not fail to remark how, on a
-warm day, several of the little creatures will stand at the entrance
-with their abdomens slightly raised, and their twinkling wings in
-rapid motion, producing a current of air inwards; while another
-set are engaged in like manner, driving the bad air out, so that a
-supply of pure oxygen is conveyed to the crowded inmates. In
-this fanning operation their wings vibrate with such rapidity, that
-their shape is as indistinct as are the spokes of a wheel when
-revolving in rapid centrifugal motion.</p>
-
-<p>This important office entails great physical exertion on the
-part of the bees, and they relieve each other in detachments.</p>
-
-<p>Some bee-keepers find an adapting board convenient for placing
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_116">- 116 -</span>
-underneath straw supers, as it facilitates their removal. These
-boards are made of mahogany half an inch thick, with a hole in the
-centre corresponding with that in the stock hive. We do not
-consider it necessary to fix cross sticks in the straw stock hives,
-as is frequently done; but if the apiarian prefers to have his
-hives so furnished, there is no serious objection to it. These
-observations refer to our Cottager's hive (<a href="#Page_34">page 34</a>).</p>
-
-<p>There is another little matter of detail that should be named
-here; that is, the necessity of the bee-keeper always having a
-common hive in readiness near the bees, so as to be able to
-secure any swarm which may unexpectedly start.</p>
-
-<p>Here our pleasant task must close. We trust that all information
-has been given that is needful to enable the practical bee-keeper
-to begin business, and the scientific apiarian to commence
-his observations. By way of illustrating the two characters combined,
-we will conclude by quoting another simple idyl by the
-German bee-keeper, Herr Braun, whose winter musings we have
-already presented to the reader.</p>
-
-<p id="ON_THE_FIRST" class="tdc">[<i>From "The Journal of Horticulture."</i>]</p>
-
-<p class="caption3">ON THE FIRST FLIGHT OF BEES IN SPRING.</p>
-
-<p class="tdc"><i>By</i> <span class="smcap">Adalbert Braun</span>, <i>Translated by</i> "<span class="smcap">A Devonshire Bee-keeper.</span>"</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Hark! what is so gaily humming</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">In the little garden there?</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Hark! what is so briskly whizzing</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Through the still and silent air?</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Friend, it is our bees&mdash;the darlings&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Now enliven'd by the Spring;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Yes, the winter is departed.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">And once more they're on the wing.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Happy he, who winter's perils</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">All his stocks brings safely through;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Thank Him, of all good the Giver&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Faithful Watchman He, and true.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Of my own are none departed.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">All as yet unhurt remain;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Though no longer rich in honey.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Yet is Spring returned again!</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Come, and let us view them nearer&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Enter by the garden gate;&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">So&mdash;stand still, and watch their doings&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Light your pipe, and patient wait.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_117">- 117 -</span></p>
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">See how busily they traverse</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">To their pasturage and back,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">That they may by toil unwearied</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Save the commonwealth from wrack.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Look, O look! what loads of pollen,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Bring they in with heedful care.</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Nurslings, fear not; for your cravings</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Here's sufficient and to spare.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">How they dart and how they hurtle</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Through the genial balmy air!</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">To the mountains&mdash;to the meadows&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">'Tis the scent attracts them there!</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">There they dexterously rifle</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Nectar from each flow'r in bloom;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Toil they for our honey harvest,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">For us fill the honey-room.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Yes, our bees, our precious darlings.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">We salute you all to-day;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">For your life is our enjoyment&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Winter's sleep has pass'd away.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Grant prosperity, Heaven!</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">To the new-born honey-year&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Give thy favour&mdash;give thy blessing&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">To these objects of our care.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Now let each attentive guardian</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">In devoted service strive</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">For the proud, the Matron-monarch&mdash;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Sov'reign of the honey-hive.</div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">So that we may learn by watching</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Who that in the noon-tide glance,</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Or in midnight's darkest moments.</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Summons her to Hymen's dance.<a id="FNanchor_10" href="#Footnote_10" class="fnanchor">[10]</a></div>
- </div>
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">Ev'ry bee-hive calls for patience,</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">Whilst great Haller's lessons teach</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">Without patience Nature's secrets</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">None successfully can reach.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p class="tdr"><span class="smcap">T. W. Woodbury</span>, <i>Mount Radford, Exeter</i>.</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_10" href="#FNanchor_10" class="label">[10]</a> This point cannot now be considered doubtful, but it must be remembered that Herr
-Braun's verses were written eighteen years ago.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_118">- 118 -</span></p>
-
-<p>In conclusion, we would remind all bee-keepers who earnestly
-desire success, and who hope to draw pecuniary profit from their
-pursuit, of the golden rule in bee-keeping:&mdash;"Keep your stocks
-strong." In exercising the assiduous attention and persevering
-effort, which that maxim enjoins, they will not only be regarded
-as <i>bee-keepers</i>, but, as Mr. Langstroth says, will acquire a right to
-the title of <i>bee-masters</i>.</p>
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_119">- 119 -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="APPENDIX">APPENDIX.</h2>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 101px;">
- <img src="images/bar_ball.png" width="101" height="20" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-
-<p>TESTIMONIALS OF THE PRESS.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" style="width: 68px;">
- <img src="images/bar_diamond2.png" width="68" height="17" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<p id="Great_Exhibition" class="caption3">GREAT EXHIBITION 1851.</p>
-
-<p>The "Working Apiary" in the Great Exhibition of 1851, will long live in
-remembrance of the many thousand visitors who witnessed with much interest
-the matchless industry of its busy occupants.</p>
-
-<p>We extract the following from many notices that appeared in the public
-journals relative thereto.</p>
-
-<p>In noticing the hives exhibited in the Crystal Palace, I would say, first and
-foremost in my opinion stands <span class="smcap">Mr. Taylor's</span> Eight-bar Hive, and Messrs.
-<span class="smcap">Neighbour and Son's</span> Improved Cottage Hive, both exhibited by Messrs.
-<span class="smcap">Neighbour</span>.&mdash;<i>J. H. Payne, see Cottage Gardener, Nos. 169, 170.</i></p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Illustrated London News."</i></p>
-
-<p>Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Apiary consists of a large glass case, with parts of
-the sides covered with perforated zinc, for the sake of ventilation. This apiary
-contains three hives; first <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Ventilating Box-Hive, containing
-from 15,000 to 20,000 bees, which were hived on the 30th of April of the
-present year, the day before that of the opening of the Great Exhibition;
-<span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Observatory Glass Hive, containing about the same number as
-the box-hive; and a two storied square box-hive, with sloping roof. From
-this latter, however, the bees decamped within a week after they had been
-hived, owing to some disturbance, or perhaps, to the dislike taken by the bees
-to their new habitation. The Ventilating Box-Hive is, in shape, square,
-having windows and shutters. The entrance is at the back, enabling the bees
-to go to Kensington Gardens, or other resorts, when they please. Above the
-wooden box is placed a bell glass, into which the bees ascend to work
-through circular opening in, the top of the square box. In the top of the
-bell-glass is an aperture through which is inserted a tubular trunk of perforated
-zinc, to take off the moisture from within. The Observatory Hive is of glass,
-with a superior crystal compartment, an opening being formed between the
-two; the bees are at present forming a comb in this upper glass, which affords
-a very interesting sight, as generally speaking, the bees are in such a cluster
-when at work that one can scarcely view their mathematically formed cells.
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_120">- 120 -</span>
-A straw cover is suspended over the upper compartment by a rope over a
-pulley, which cover is raised up by the attendant at pleasure. The larger or
-bottom compartment rests on a wooden floor, which has a circular groove sinking
-therein to receive the bell glass. A landing-place projecting, as usual, with
-sunken way, to enable the bees to pass in and out of their habitation, completes
-this contrivance.</p>
-
-<p>In addition to Mr. <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Crystal Apiary, he also exhibits a
-Cottager's Straw Hive, Taylor's Amateur Bee-Hive, a Glass Hive, <span class="smcap">Nutt's</span>
-Patent Collateral Hive, the Ladies' Observatory Hive, <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Improved
-Cottage Hive, and <span class="smcap">Payne's</span> Cottage Hive.</p>
-
-<p>The Cottager's Hive is simply that of the form we find in use in most
-parts of the country, where the industrious cottagers or their wives, by a little
-attention to their interesting little labourers, are enabled to add something to
-their usually scanty earnings. This kind of hive is usually made of straw,
-resting on a circular wooden board, with part of the board or floor projecting
-in front as a lauding place for the bees, which enter under the edge of the
-straw by means of a sinking in the floor.</p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Taylor's</span> Amateur's Bee-Hive consists of three small square boxes, one
-above another, with a roof over the top story; the ventilation being effected
-by perforations under the eaves; each side of every story has a window and
-shutter. The landing place is in front of the bottom story, and the entrance
-to the hive is a long slit about &frac34; inch high.</p>
-
-<p>The Glass Hive or Ladies' Observatory Hive, is similar to that in which
-the bees are at work in Mr. <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Apiary already mentioned, but
-on account of the number of bees at work therein, and the extent of comb
-already effected, the interior perches cannot be seen. These wooden perches
-are arranged in parallel lines, leaving a space next the glass all round, the
-whole being framed together with a bar at right angles, and resting on an
-upright support in the middle.</p>
-
-<p>The Improved Cottage Hive of the same exhibitor consists of a straw
-circular lower compartment, having windows and outside shutters. A thermometer
-is placed just inside one of the windows. The floor is of wood, with
-a landing place and sunken way, as already mentioned in some of the other
-hives. In the top, which is also of wood, are three circular perforations, each
-of about two inches in diameter; above which are placed as many bell-glasses.
-There is a small hole in the top of each of the glasses, through which a perforated
-tubular trunk is inserted, for the sake of taking off the moisture from
-the interior of the hive. Within the glass is a feeding-trough of zinc, circular
-in shape, with a floating perforated floor, on which the bees alight, and in the
-111
-winter season regale themselves with the honey which is found in the
-various perforations, as it floats up to the level of the honey, contained in the
-small filling-trough, through which the honey, or beer and sugar, is poured.
-The glasses are covered with a straw cap, removable at pleasure.</p>
-
-<p>Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> contributions are completed with, tin perforated
-fumigators, by the use of which the bees are stupefied for a while, when
-required to be moved from one hive to another; and specimens of honey and
-honey-comb of the season 1850.</p>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_121">- 121 -</span></p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Express."</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Bees and Bee-Hives.</span>&mdash;In the North-East Gallery directly under the
-Transept are arranged by Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span>, of Holborn, several descriptions
-of bee-hives, which it will be interesting to many of our readers to
-examine, as this branch of rural economy is claiming much general and
-deserved attention throughout the country. 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
-bees, thus humanely superseding the barbarous and hateful system of murdering
-these interesting insects, to obtain the produce of their industry.</p>
-
-<p>Immediately adjoining the group of untenanted bee-hives may be observed
-living hives with the bees most industriously at work. These useful little
-creatures have been highly honoured by the Executive Committee, 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 skill. By
-a simple contrivance the bees are allowed egress and ingress without in the
-least degree molesting the visitors, thus enabling the admirers of the works
-of nature to view the whole process of forming the cells and depositing the
-honey therein.</p>
-
-<p>Within these few days Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> have added to the Apiary, a
-bee-hive constructed entirely of glass, protected by a cover neatly made of
-straw, but so contrived, that on application to the attendant can be removed
-instantly, thus illustrating more particularly the curious workmanship of these
-amusing insects.</p>
-
-<p>Her Majesty the Queen, and the Prince Consort, with the Royal Children,
-were some time engaged in watching with deep interest the busy scene before
-them, and putting many questions relating to the habits and economy of the
-honey bee.</p>
-
-
-<p id="International" class="caption3">INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITION 1861.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Illustrated London News," August 16, 1862.</i></p>
-
-<p>One of the most interesting and instructive objects in the Exhibition, is a
-transparent hive, in which the bees may be seen at full work. Among the
-collection of bee-hives exhibited by Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour and Son</span>, is one
-of glass, stocked with a colony of Italian Alp bees. Here the queen bee
-may be seen surrounded by her subjects, which pay the most deferential
-attention to their sovereign. Through an aperture cut in the wall, the busy
-throng of bees are continually passing and repassing. They go out at their
-pleasure into the open court, fly over the annexe into the grounds of the
-Horticultural Society and other adjacent gardens, and return laden with
-sweets.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Journal of Horticulture" October 21, 1862.</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Neighbour, G. &amp; Sons</span>, 149, Regent Street, and 127, Holborn, No. 2157,
-have a very handsome and complete stall, on ascending the steps of which we
-found a flourishing stock of Ligurians, apparently not at all ashamed of the
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_122">- 122 -</span>
-public position which they occupied, and working vigorously in the full light
-of day. The queen, one of the largest and finest-coloured we have met with,
-was perambulating the combs and receiving the homage of her subjects, stopping
-frequently to deposit an egg in every empty cell. The hive itself was a
-"Woodbury Unicomb," handsomely got up in mahogany, invented as its
-name implies, by our valued correspondent. "<span class="smcap">A Devonshire Bee-keeper</span>,"
-the construction of which will be most readily understood by an inspection of
-the engraving at <a href="#Page_46">page 46</a>. Its distinctive features are, the adaptation of the
-moveable-bar system to unicomb-hives, by which any colony in an apiary of
-"Woodbury-hives" can be placed in the unicomb-hive in a few minutes, and the
-use of "outside Venetians," or "sun blinds." as they are called, instead of
-the usual impervious shutters. By this contrivance light is never excluded, so
-that when the hive is open for inspection, all its inmates continue their avocation
-with their accustomed regularity, and a quiet and orderly scene is presented
-to the spectator, instead of the hubbub and confusion which ensues in
-ordinary unicomb-hives. On the left-hand side of the unicomb hangs a
-beautifully executed drawing of a Ligurian queen bee magnified, together with
-the queen worker and drone of <i>Apis Ligustica</i>, of the natural size. Immediately
-under the drawing is placed a square glass super containing nearly 40 lbs.
-of the finest honey-comb. On the right of the unicomb-hive is another super of
-the same description, containing nearly 30 lbs. of the purest honey. These
-supers are, undoubtedly, by far the finest in the Exhibition, and are the first
-worked in England by Ligurian bees, being from the apiary of "<span class="smcap">A Devonshire
-Bee-keeper</span>." In addition to these the most striking objects, are shown
-Neighbour's Improved Single Box and Cottage Hives, Taylor's Bar-Hives,
-Woodbury Frame and Bar-hives, the new Bottle-feeder, and bee apparatus of
-every description. It will be apparent from the foregoing, that Messrs. Neighbour's
-stall is well worth inspection, although the various novelties it contains
-appear to have met with but scant appreciation by the Jury, who merely awarded
-to them that "honourable mention" so lavishly accorded to the far less
-deserving objects.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Illustrated News of the World" September 6, 1862.</i></p>
-
-<p>One of the most interesting and instructive objects is the honey bee at
-full work in transparent hives. In the International Exhibition, Class 9,
-Eastern Annexe, Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> and Son, of Holborn and Regent-street,
-exhibit, amongst a collection of the most approved bee-hives and apparatus, a
-glass hive, stocked with a colony of Italian Alp bees; the hive is so constructed
-as to admit of easily seeing the queen, surrounded by the working bees.
-Contrary to the long established notion that the bees work only in the dark
-this hive is completely open to broad daylight. The bees do not manifest the
-least dislike to the exposure, and they are not discomfited when light is
-occasionally admitted for inspecting them. 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 case. The queen may
-be seen depositing the eggs in the cells; in this manner she goes on multiplying
-the species, the working bees surrounding her, and paying the most deferential
-attention, with their heads always towards her. Not the least interesting part
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_123">- 123 -</span>
-is to watch the entrance; facility is afforded for doing so, the sunken way
-communicating with the hive being covered with a flat piece of glass; the
-busy throng, pass and repass through the aperture cut in the wall, so that
-the bees go out at their pleasure into the open court, fly over the Annexe into
-the Horticultural and other adjacent gardens, and return laden with crystal
-sweets gathered from the flowers. The novelty of being able to inspect living
-bees, and those of a new variety, as easily as goods in a shop window, will well
-repay the trouble of finding Messrs. Neighbour's stand. These gentlemen will
-no doubt cheerfully give any information that may be required.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Gardener's Weekly Magazine" September 1, 1862. Conducted by
-Shirley Hibberd, Esq., F.R.H.S.</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Neighbour and Son</span>, 149, Regent Street, London, (2157).&mdash;This is the
-most important of the exhibitions in this department. The "Bees at work"
-are in hives open to the inspection of visitors, the bees passing out through
-tubes to the open air, and not being visible within the building except through
-the glass of the hives. The collection of hives of all kinds is complete and interesting,
-and we subjoin a figure of the stand (see <a href="#Page_100">page 100</a>) to show how bees as
-well as hives may be exhibited conveniently. Amongst the various contrivances
-exhibited by Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span>, Nutt's Collateral Hive has an
-important place, and though very fancifully got up, and therefore very
-attractive to amateur bee-keepers, we must make the same objection to it
-as we have above to other forms of the same from different makers. The
-Single-box Hive, the Taylor's Shallow Eight-bar Hive, are the best bee-boxes
-in this collection, and every way admirable. Here are no fancy ventilators
-which the bees will close up, nor provoking side boxes which they will
-hesitate to enter, and from which it will be hard to dislodge them in order
-to get them to winter in the "pavilion." Whoever begins bee-keeping with
-either of these will have a fair chance of success. The most popular of the
-hives is that called the "Improved Cottage." Its popularity no doubt is due
-to the compromise between wood and straw which it accomplishes. People
-cannot get rid of the idea that a bee-hive <i>must</i> be made of straw, though it is
-a material so ill adapted for union of swarms, supering and other operations of
-advanced bee culture. 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 system." It consists of stock hive, small
-super-hive, and straw cover, and is on the principle of Payne's, which has
-been most successful among country people who have got so far as to prefer
-keeping, to killing their bees. The "Woodbury Bar and Frame Hive" is
-a novel construction, combining all the best features of the best bar boxes,
-and adding some new ones of great value and importance. We recommend
-every bee-keeper to become possessed of this admirable contrivance, with
-which Mr. Woodbury has accomplished wonderful things in the multiplication
-of the new race of Ligurian bees. In general form and proportions it
-resembles Taylor's and Tegetmeier's boxes, but in the arrangement of the
-bars it is unique. The stock box is furnished with ten moveable bars and
-frames, after the German plan. Each bar has a projection running along
-the under side; this ridge is chosen by the bees for the foundation of combs,
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_124">- 124 -</span>
-rendering guide combs unnecessary. The supers have glass sides and eight
-bars, so that the operator need never be in doubt when to add another box
-above or take away the harvest.</p>
-
-<p>The "Unicomb," or one-comb observatory-hive, is intended solely for
-purposes of observation, and though furnished with doors, to keep up a
-uniform degree of heat, Messrs. Neighbour have found in their experience
-at the Regent's Park Gardens and elsewhere, that the bees manifest no
-dislike to a continual exposure to light. As this elegant contrivance can be
-placed in the window of a drawing-room, it is adapted to the amusement and
-instruction of the family circle, as well as to the more serious objects of the
-etomologist and scientific apiarian. All that is necessary is to connect the
-outlet with the open air by means of a length of tubing or wooden tunnel,
-and the bees pass in and out without obtaining access to the room, and all
-the mysteries of the hive are open to daily observation. There are numerous
-other hives, bee-feeders, bee armour, &amp;c., &amp;c., which we have not space to
-notice, but which we advise our apiarian friends to inspect, as the collection
-of Messrs. Neighbour illustrates fully every department of this interesting
-subject.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Bath_and_West" class="caption3">BATH AND WEST OF ENGLAND AGRICULTURAL SHOW AT EXETER, IN JUNE, 1863.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Journal of Horticulture," June 23, 1863.</i></p>
-
-<p>A novel feature in the Exhibition of the Bath and West of England
-Agricultural Society which took place at Exeter last week, was the stall of
-Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour &amp; Sons</span>, in which were exhibited bees at work in glass
-hives, and apiarian appliances of every description. There were two Ligurian
-stocks of bees at full work, one in a full sized Woodbury Unicomb Hive,
-having been brought from London for the occasion, and the other in a smaller
-hive of the same description being from the neighbouring apiary of our valued
-correspondent, "<span class="smcap">A Devonshire Bee-Keeper</span>." Amongst the hives exhibited,
-the Woodbury Frame Hive in straw appeared both novel and good, whilst
-amongst the apparatus, artificial combs and the stereotyped plates for making
-them, seemed to us the most worthy of attention.</p>
-
-<p>There was a remarkably curious specimen of artificial combs or partition
-wall partially fabricated into complete comb by the bees, which struck us as being
-well worth examination, showing, as it did, the various stages by which this
-transformation is effected, and being calculated to throw light on the problem
-as to the mode in which bees construct their combs. It is almost unnecessary
-to state, that this unique and instructive stall was crowded throughout the
-week, and we hope its financial results were such as will lead Messrs.
-<span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> to continue their attendance at the Society's meetings.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Western Times" Exeter, June 12, 1863.</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">For the Little Busy Bee.</span>&mdash;Next to the poultry tents, and set back
-against the yard fencing, is the exhibition of Mr. <span class="smcap">George Neighbour &amp; Sons</span>,
-127, High Holborn, and 149, Regent Street, London, inventors and manufacturers
-of improved bee-hives for taking honey without the destruction of
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_125">- 125 -</span>
-the bees. The savage knows where to find the nest of the wild bee, and how
-to get at his honey; but all the improvement upon the covetousness of the
-savage made by the long after ages of the world to modern times, was to find
-means of luring the pattern of industry to a convenient atelier where he might
-be more easily, first murdered and then robbed. Their habits early attracted
-the attention of some of the best observers of ancient as well as modern times;
-Cicero and Pliny tell of the philosopher Hyliscus quitting human society and
-retiring to the desert to contemplate their peaceful industry. The ancient
-poet in his <i>Sic vos non vobis</i> plaintively sings over bee and beast, living, or
-rather dying, not for themselves, but the lord of creation, yet was it left to
-modern times&mdash;very modern times&mdash;to join the sentiment of humanity to the
-rapacity of the barbarian. Mr. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> 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 bee; and
-also, subsidiarily of promoting its comfort during its busy and useful life.
-We are not allowed to forget here, that we have residing in our city one of the
-first apiarians in the kingdom&mdash;Mr. <span class="smcap">Thomas Woodbury</span>, of Mount Radford.
-If the bee philosophy be his hobby, 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 object. One proof of his
-genius in this his favourite department of action, is seen among this collection
-of Mr. <span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> in the "Woodbury Unicomb Hive." It might be when
-closed up, for ought that appears, a neat case of books; but on opening two
-doors of the Venetian blind pattern, back and front, we see between the glass
-walls, the insect city exposed to view with all the population in action. There
-it may be seen</p>
-
-<div class="poetry-container">
-<div class="poetry">
- <div class="stanza">
- <div class="verse indent0">How skilfully she builds her cell;</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">How neat she spreads her wax;</div>
- <div class="verse indent0">And labours hard to store it well</div>
- <div class="verse indent2">With the sweet food she makes.</div>
- </div>
-</div>
-</div>
-
-<p>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 work. "<span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Unicomb Observatory Hive" is a great
-novelty, being constructed with glass sides, the hidden mysteries of the hive
-being exposed to the full light of day. "<span class="smcap">Huber's</span> Book or Leaf Hive" is
-constructed to facilitate the object of the scientific apiarian. But the class of
-hives which will most interest those desirous of promoting bee-keeping among
-the many will be those for the cottage. There can be no doubt that many a
-poor cottager in the country, if he could be made to see the advantage it
-would be to him, and were taught the most economical and successful way of
-managing this species of "live stock," would add thereby something considerable
-to his small earnings in the course of a summer. Members of Cottage
-Garden Societies have turned their attention to it very generally; but to get
-the thing well afloat, requires in every district the devotion of some earnest
-enthusiast who will take up the apostolic rule of action "This one thing I do."
-There is the No. 5, "Improved Cottage Hive," in which three bell glasses are
-employed, enabling you to take a glass of the purest honey from the hive in
-the most vigorous period of the season. Then there are other hives of simpler
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_126">- 126 -</span>
-construction and less expensive, but all illustrative of the sentiment of humanity
-which seeks to preserve from wanton destruction those useful and interesting
-auxiliaries to our luxury and comfort. This comparatively unimportant stand,
-in point of size, cannot but attract the attention of a large number of visitors,
-especially of the ladies and the clergy, who are desirous of promoting the
-cultivation of the bee among the poor. To heighten the interest for the
-curious, in one of Mr. <span class="smcap">Woodbury's</span> hives the bees are all alive and at it, and
-for those who are disposed to go further into the subject, information is
-available touching this fashionable, profitable, and domesticated member of the
-Apiarian family, the Ligurian and Italian Alp-bee. Our old dark-coated delver
-is threatened with supercession, just as the black rat was driven off by the
-Norwegian invader, now in possession, and as the old races of cattle are being
-metamorphosed into the sleek, shapely, beef-bearing, small-boned animals of
-the present time.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Devon Weekly Times" June 8, 1863.</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Bees.</span>&mdash;Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour &amp; Sons</span>, of London, are exhibitors of two
-<span class="smcap">Woodbury</span> Unicomb Hives, showing the royal and common bees in full work.
-These hives are very ingeniously constructed, and were invented by Mr. <span class="smcap">T.
-Woodbury</span>, of Mount Radford. Among other apiarian attractions, we may
-mention the improved Cottage and Cottager's Hives, which are well worthy
-the notice of those for whom they are designed, and the Ladies' Observatory
-Hive. The Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> also exhibit Ligurian bees.</p>
-
-<p><i>From "Woolmer's Exeter Gazette" June 12, 1863.</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">Improved Bee-Hives.</span>&mdash;At a stand near the poultry tents, are exhibited
-<span class="smcap">Neighbour's</span> Improved Bee-hives for the taking of honey without the destruction
-of bees. The hives are stocked with the famous Ligurian bee. The Unicomb
-Observatory Hive is constructed with glass sides, so that the whole of the
-movements of the Apiarian colony are visible, including the proceedings of the
-queen and her court. This and some of the other descriptions of hives manufactured
-by Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span> are invented by <span class="smcap">T. W. Woodbury</span>, Esq. They
-are furnished with moveable bars, after the German fashion. Each bar has a
-projection along the underside; this ridge being waxed, induces the bees to
-build parallel combs&mdash;thus obviating the necessity for a guide comb. This
-description of hive is best suited for the Ligurian or Italian Alp-bee. Stocks
-of this species, now so much in repute, may be obtained of Messrs. <span class="smcap">Neighbour</span>
-149, Regent Street, London.</p>
-
-
-<p id="Royal_Agr" class="caption3">ROYAL AGRICULTURAL SHOW, NEWCASTLE, 1864.</p>
-
-<p><i>From the "Northern Daily Express" July 22,&mdash;(Published at Newcastle.)</i></p>
-
-<p><span class="smcap">A Model Factory.</span>&mdash;Stand 191&mdash;<span class="smcap">G. Neighbour &amp; Sons.</span> Regent Street,
-and High Holborn, London. We have heard of model farms and model
-lodging houses for the working classes, but it was reserved for the Royal
-Agricultural Society's Meeting in 1864 to introduce to our notice a model
-factory, where we may see representatives of the working classes busily engaged
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_127">- 127 -</span>
-in their daily avocations. The stand which we have quoted above, may afford
-fruitful study to such philanthropists as the Earl of Shaftesbury, who make
-it their benevolent aim to elevate the masses, and the lesson here given from
-actual life will not be lost upon working men themselves. There are several
-striking features worthy of notice in the "model factory." We can clearly
-perceive that it has been established on a principle which is essential to the
-success of any great concern&mdash;namely: the principle of a good understanding
-amongst the operatives themselves, and between them and the head of the
-establishment. What strikes us in this model factory is the unity of action
-which reigns throughout. There is no jostling of rival interests, and no
-misunderstandings, or cross purposes. The operatives in this establishment are
-so numerous that we question if any one has as yet been able to count their
-number, and yet all seem to be working in perfect harmony, their joint
-labour continually leading to one beautiful and sublime result. Another
-feature specially noticeable in the establishment, in question is the principle
-of subordination. Singular to say, that while the operatives are males<a id="FNanchor_11" href="#Footnote_11" class="fnanchor">[11]</a>
-the foreman of this model factory is a female; but that circumstance
-need not shock the sensibilities of our fair friends any more than it ought to
-offend the prejudices of the sterner sex, inasmuch as the mighty empire of
-Great Britain is ruled by the gentle hand of a female; and moreover, in the
-one case as in the other, the presiding genius, amids all her official cares and
-duties, takes care to preserve the modesty of her sex. She never in the
-slightest degree obtrudes herself needlessly on public observation, and probably
-on that very account the respect shown to her by her subjects is the more
-profound and devoted. There is, however, one particular in which we would
-take leave to demur to the idea of this factory being in every respect regarded
-as a "model." We have not been able to discover that there is any particular
-period of the day in which the operatives are allowed to take refreshments.
-We, in England, have been accustomed to regard the dinner hour somewhat
-in the light of a sacred institution. And if the council of the Royal Agricultural
-Society mean to set this up as a model institution, we are of opinion
-that some explanation on this point is desirable. Indeed we have not been
-able to discover that the operatives in this establishment take any refreshment
-whatever. If they do, it must be "on the sly," vulgarly speaking. There
-is one peculiarity, however, which must tend to popularize this institution,
-and which has served to make it one of the most attractive objects on the
-show ground. 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 extent, and perhaps wisely so. As
-you approach the door you see an intimation in legible characters, "No
-admission except on business." This may be very proper, but it is rather
-tantalising. In the model factory which we are now describing all the operations
-are open to inspection. Every action is patent to the eye of the
-spectator. This has been effected by a skilful contrivance, and it is this
-contrivance in fact, which has entitled the inventor to obtain a place in the
-show ground for his model factory, which he describes by the somewhat ambiguous
-term of "a new implement." But our readers may wish to learn what
-<span class="pagenum" id="Page_128">- 128 -</span>
-is the staple manufacture of this wonderful workshop. We reply&mdash;"honey."
-The factory we speak of is nothing more nor less than a bee-hive; or, to quote
-from the catalogue, "An Unicomb Observatory Bee-hive," with living Italian
-Alpine bees at full work; it was invented by <span class="smcap">T. W. Woodbury</span>, of Exeter;
-and is improved and manufactured by the exhibitors. As implied by its
-name this hive has one comb, so that both sides are fully exposed to the light
-of day, thus allowing of an easy inspection of the queen-bee, surrounded
-by her retinue.</p>
-
-<div class="footnote">
-
-<p><a id="Footnote_11" href="#FNanchor_11" class="label">[11]</a> The reporter was in error as to the sex of the workers.</p>
-
-</div>
-<hr class="chap x-ebookmaker-drop" />
-
-<div class="chapter">
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_129">- 129 -</span></p>
-
-<h2 class="nobreak" id="INDEX">INDEX.</h2>
-</div>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page129" style="width: 53px;">
- <img src="images/page129.png" width="53" height="18" alt="" />
-</div>
-
-<div class="tdc">
-[ <a href="#A">A</a> ][ <a href="#B">B</a> ][ <a href="#C">C</a> ][ <a href="#D">D</a> ][ <a href="#E">E</a> ][ <a href="#F">F</a> ][ <a href="#G">G</a> ]<br />
-[ <a href="#H">H</a> ][ <a href="#I">I</a> ][ <a href="#J">J</a> ][ <a href="#K">K</a> ][ <a href="#L">L</a> ][ <a href="#M">M</a> ][ <a href="#N">N</a> ]<br />
-[ <a href="#P">P</a> ][ <a href="#Q">Q</a> ][ <a href="#R">R</a> ][ <a href="#S">S</a> ][ <a href="#T">T</a> ][ <a href="#V">V</a> ][ <a href="#W">W</a> ]
-</div>
-
-
-<table summary="index">
-<tr>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr smaller" style="width: 15em;">PAGE.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="A" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">A.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Adapting board</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_76">76</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a>, <a href="#Page_116">116</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Age of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_6">6</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Anger of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_76">76</a>, <a href="#Page_89">89</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Apiary, best time to set up</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Exterior and interior of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_58">58</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Artificial Swarming</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_79">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Right time for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_80">80</a>, <a href="#Page_81">81</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Directions for performing the operation of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_80">80</a>, <a href="#Page_81">81</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Artificial Swarms, how should be placed</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_83">83</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Aspect</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_114">114</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Australia, sending bees to</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_100">100</a>, <a href="#Page_101">101</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="B" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">B.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Baby bee, cradle of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; emerging from the cell</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bath and West of England Journal</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_97">97</a>, <a href="#Page_99">99</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; "&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Agricultural Shows</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_47">47</a>, <a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_124">124</a>, <a href="#Page_125">125</a>, <a href="#Page_126">126</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee dress</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_68">68</a>, <a href="#Page_74">74</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Necessity for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_69">69</a>, <a href="#Page_77">77</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bees, reduced size of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_79">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Human breath obnoxious to</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_89">89</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Artificial scent objectionable</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_89">89</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="Bee_Hives" class="caption3nb" colspan="2"><span class="smcap">Bee Hives (Modern).</span></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Neighbour's Cottager's:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Putting on super</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time for removal of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Depositing eggs in super</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Cottage (No. 5):&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_28">28</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Directions for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_29">29</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Weight</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Cottage (No. 6)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_31">31</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Neighbour's Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Hive:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_32">32</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Feeding</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Light not to be admitted at first</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mode of fixing</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_32">32</a>, <a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;stocking</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Protection from cold</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Use of frame work</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Weight</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_32">32</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Neighbour's Unicomb Observatory:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Construction and application</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_44">44</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mode of stocking</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_44">44</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How kept warm</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_46">46</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How exhibited at Paris</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_45">45</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Prize Medal for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_45">45</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Neighbour's Single Box:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of and directions for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_24">24</a>, <a href="#Page_25">25</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Nutt's Collateral:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_17">17</a>, <a href="#Page_18">18</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Means of ventilation</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_21">21</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mode of stocking</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a>, <a href="#Page_20">20</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;taking surplus honey</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_21">21</a>, <a href="#Page_22">22</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Feeding</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Shed necessary</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;The late Thomas Nutt</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_23">23</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Taylor's Improved Cottage:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_43">43</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Taylor's Eight-bar Straw Hive:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_43">43</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Amateur Eight-bar</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_26">26</a>, <a href="#Page_29">29</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seven-bar</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury Bar and Frame:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Glass Bar and Frame</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_38">38</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Straw Bar and Frame, description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special advantage of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Origin of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Directions for stocking</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_73">73</a>, <a href="#Page_74">74</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury Unicomb:&mdash;<span class="pagenum" id="Page_130">- 130 -</span>
- Construction of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_46">46</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Inspection of queen</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_47">47</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How fixed</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_48">48</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Answering</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_49">49</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mode of stocking</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_49">49</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bees removed before Winter</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_4">4</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Huber's Book or Leaf, description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_50">50</a>, <a href="#Page_51">51</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Bee Houses.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Advantage of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_53">53</a>, <a href="#Page_54">54</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of, to contain two hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_53">53</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Furnished with lock and key</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_54">54</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How hives are placed in</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_54">54</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Plan for excluding insects</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_54">54</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of, to contain twelve hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_55">55</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Object of colouring alighting board</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_55">55</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bees mistaking entrance</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_55">55</a>, <a href="#Page_56">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loss of queens</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_56">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee-house to contain nine hives, why not recommended</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_56">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee-keeping, inexpensive and profitable</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_113">113</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee-keeping in London</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_102">102</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;St. James's Place</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_105">105</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Zoological Gardens, Regent's Park</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_105">105</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;St. John's Wood and suburbs of London</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_105">105</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;G. Neighbour and Sons' London Apiary</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_104">104</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Seasons, 1863, 1864, favorable for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_106">106</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Bee-keeper should be a book-keeper</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="C" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">C.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cells, contracted size of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_79">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Changing old stocks into new hives:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Not to be attempted by the inexperienced</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_86">86</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Adaptation of old hive to the depriving system</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_86">86</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Directions for transferring stocks into frame hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_87">87</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Classes for whom bee-keeping is suited</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Combs, artificial</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_70">70</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Value of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_70">70</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mode of applying</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_71">71</a>, <a href="#Page_72">72</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Must not be jarred</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_69">69</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Taken from bar and frame hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_75">75</a>, <a href="#Page_79">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fixing in frames</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_75">75</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ensuring regularity of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Compound Bar and Frame</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_40">40</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cottagers, way to convince of the humane system</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cottagers' hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Cover for bar and frame hive, description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_41">41</a>, <a href="#Page_42">42</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Zinc</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_59">59</a>, <a href="#Page_60">60</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ornamental zinc</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_59">59</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Straw hackle</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Crown board</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_74">74</a>, <a href="#Page_76">76</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="D" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">D.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Dampness in hives in winter injurious</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_33">33</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Depriving System:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Special advantages of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_10">10</a>, <a href="#Page_35">35</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Practiced in ancient Greece and Italy</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_10">10</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Profit to be derived from</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a>, <a href="#Page_112">112</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Dividing hives, reason why they do not answer</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_82">82</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Dressing hives inside with sweet not needful</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Driving bees, directions for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_84">84</a>, <a href="#Page_85">85</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Drones, sex of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_6">6</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Purpose of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_7">7</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Reason for numbers in hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_7">7</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;General massacre of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_7">7</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;All die before winter</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="E" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">E.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Eggs of bees:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In supers</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#page36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Entrance to hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_18">18</a>, <a href="#Page_31">31</a>, <a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Epitaph on murdered bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Evans, note on page, extract from</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_3">3</a>, <a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_5">5</a>, <a href="#Page_12">12</a>, <a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Evening thoughts in January, a poem</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_56">56</a>, <a href="#Page_57">57</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="F" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">F.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Feeding</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_19">19</a>, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_31">31</a>, <a href="#Page_33">33</a>, <a href="#Page_63">63</a>, <a href="#Page_64">64</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Feeder (Bottle)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_63">63</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Nutt's)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_66">66</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Round)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_65">65</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;(Fountain)</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_65">65</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Frame:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">39</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mr. "Woodbury's improvement</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_40">40</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How kept perpendicular</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">39</a>, <a href="#Page_40">40</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Taking out with combs</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_76">76</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Direction for handling frames</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_77">77</a>, <a href="#Page_78">78</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Placing frames in hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_78">78</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">French Bishop visiting a Cure (anecdote)<span class="pagenum" id="Page_131">- 131 -</span></td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_111">111</a>, <a href="#Page_112">112</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Fructifying flowers, bees useful for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Fumigation, directions for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_66">66</a>, <a href="#Page_67">67</a>, <a href="#Page_68">68</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Fumigators</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_66">66</a>, <a href="#Page_67">67</a>, <a href="#Page_68">68</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="G" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">G.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">General remarks</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_110">110</a> to <a href="#Page_116">116</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="Glasses" class="tdl">Glasses, bell</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_60">60</a>, <a href="#Page_61">61</a>, <a href="#Page_62">62</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Great Exhibition of 1851, Testimonials of the press</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_119">119</a>, <a href="#Page_120">120</a>, <a href="#Page_121">121</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Guide comb</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_27">27</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;for glasses</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_61">61</a>, <a href="#Page_62">62</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="H" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">H.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Hives&mdash;see Bee-hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_106">106</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Large number may be kept</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_112">112</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Hive should be ready for swarm</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_15">15</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Honey cutters</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_66">66</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Honey Dew</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_94">94</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Honey, directions for draining from combs</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_110">110</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Keeping honey in the comb at a warm temperature</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_110">110</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Huber (Francis), extract from Memoirs of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_51">51</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="I" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">I.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Improved cottage hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_31">31</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Improved comb bar</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_39">39</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Increase of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_9">9</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">India-rubber gloves</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_74">74</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Impregnation of queen</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Insects that are injurious</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_83">83</a>, <a href="#Page_107">107</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Insects, cleansing hives from</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_83">83</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Interchange of combs for strengthening weak hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_79">79</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="Italian_Bee" class="tdl">Italian honey bee</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a>, <a href="#Page_95">95</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_96">96</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Great honey collecting powers</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_96">96</a>, <a href="#Page_97">97</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Opinions of German bee-masters</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_96">96</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Introduction into England</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_97">97</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Hermann's book on</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_97">97</a>, <a href="#Page_98">98</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Physical characteristics of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_98">98</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Importation of queens in many instances unsuccessful</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Transporting stocks to Australia</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_100">100</a>, <a href="#Page_101">101</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;At the International Exhibition</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_70">70</a>, <a href="#Page_100">100</a>, <a href="#Page_101">101</a>, <a href="#Page_121">121</a>, <a href="#Page_122">122</a>, <a href="#Page_123">123</a>, <a href="#Page_124">124</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="J" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">J.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Journal of Horticulture</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_99">99</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="K" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">K.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Keeping bell glasses warm</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_25">25</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="L" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">L.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Ligurian honey bee (see <a href="#Italian_Bee">Italian bee</a>)</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Loyalty of bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_4">4</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="M" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">M.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Mortar, not necessary for closing crevices</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Moths, how entrance is effected</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_109">109</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How to destroy eggs of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_109">109</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="N" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">N.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Neglect of bee-keeping</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_1">1</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Neighbour's hives (see Bee-hives).</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Number of eggs in the season</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Nutt's hives (see <a href="#Bee_Hives">Bee-hives</a>)</td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="P" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">P.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Pasturage for bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Honey yielding flowers</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a>, <a href="#Page_94">94</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Wild flowers best</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_94">94</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Pollen, food for infant bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How collected</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Rye meal a substitute for farina from flowers</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_91">91</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Propolis, or bees' cement</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_92">92</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How obtained</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_92">92</a>, <a href="#Page_93">93</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Application of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Anecdote illustrating use of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_93">93</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Putting on super hive or bell glasses</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_20">20</a>, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_29">29</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a>, <a href="#Page_75">75</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="Q" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">Q.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Queen:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_2">2</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Movements of, laying eggs and marriage day</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_3">3</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Honor to when fertile</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_4">4</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Combats with her rivals</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_4">4</a>, <a href="#Page_5">5</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Dismay of bees on loss of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_5">5</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Raised from worker embryo</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_5">5</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Longevity of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_6">6</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Old one goes with first swarm</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_12">12</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Leaves hive only in fine weather</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_12">12</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;In super hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_22">22</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Loss of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_5">5</a>,<a href="#Page_56">56</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;View of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_44">44</a>,<a href="#Page_47">47</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Supplying queenless hives with</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_5">5</a>,<a href="#Page_83">83</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="R" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">R.
- <span class="pagenum" id="Page_132">- 132 -</span></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Roller, engraved pressing:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_69">69</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Application of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_69">69</a>, <a href="#Page_70">70</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Royal Agricultural Society's Show</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_48">48</a>, <a href="#Page_126">126</a>, <a href="#Page_127">127</a>, <a href="#Page_128">128</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="S" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">S.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Spring, time to begin bee-keeping</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Spring, First flight of bees in, a poem</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_116">116</a>, <a href="#Page_117">117</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Sprinkling bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_77">77</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Stand for hives, engraving</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_24">24</a>, <a href="#Page_28">28</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a>, <a href="#Page_42">42</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Sticks in hives not necessary</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_115">115</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Super for bar and frame hives</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_41">41</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bell glass (see <a href="#Glasses">Glasses</a>)</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Straw</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_35">35</a>, <a href="#Page_36">36</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Straw hives:</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Advantage of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Preference for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_34">34</a>, <a href="#Page_37">37</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Swarming:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Usual time of year for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Cause of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Agitation before</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_12">12</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Provisioning for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Usual time of day for</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Poetical description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ringing on occasion of, needless</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Desirable to prevent</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Swarms:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Devices for inducing settlement of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_13">13</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Consequences of a second flight</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_14">14</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Means of preventing ditto</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_14">14</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Two sometimes depart at same time and mingle</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_14">14</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Necessity of having hives in readiness</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_14">14</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bee dress essential</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_15">15</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Time for removing</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_15">15</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Care to be exercised when confined</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_18">18</a>, <a href="#Page_24">24</a>, <a href="#Page_25">25</a>, <a href="#Page_29">29</a>, <a href="#Page_30">30</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;First swarms most valuable</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Second, cause of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Premonitory symptoms</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Royal wailing indicative of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Numerical composition of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Third, name of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Fourth, name of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_16">16</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Care required to prevent loss of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_14">14</a>, <a href="#Page_109">109</a></td>
-</tr>
-
-
-<tr>
- <td id="T" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">T.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Taking honey, mode of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_21">21</a>, <a href="#Page_22">22</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Thomson's "Seasons," extract from, on murdered bees</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_11">11</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="V" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">V.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Ventilation</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_17">17</a>, <a href="#Page_18">18</a>, <a href="#Page_20">20</a>, <a href="#Page_21">21</a>, <a href="#Page_115">115</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td id="W" class="tdc caption3nb" colspan="2">W.</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Wasps, how to prevent the increase of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_106">106</a>, <a href="#Page_107">107</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Season 1864 productive of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_107">107</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Water essential</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_94">94</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Mismanagement of, during voyage</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_101">101</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Weighing hives, importance of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_88">88</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Salter's spring balance best</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_88">88</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;How to judge of quantity without</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_88">88</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Windows, objections to</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_38">38</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">Wildman</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_102">102</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Marvellous feats of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_103">103</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Secret of success</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_103">103</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl" colspan="2">Worker bee:&mdash;</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Description of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Sex of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Number in hive</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Young ones, employment of</td>
- <td class="tdr"><a href="#Page_8">8</a></td>
-
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<p><span class="pagenum" id="Page_133">- 133 -</span></p>
-
-
-<p class="caption3nb">NEIGHBOUR'S</p>
-
-<p class="caption2">IMPROVED BEE-HIVES,</p>
-
-<p class="tdc">FOR</p>
-
-<p class="tdc larger">TAKING HONEY WITHOUT THE DESTRUCTION OF THE BEES.</p>
-
-<div class="figcenter" id="page133" style="width: 450px;">
- <img src="images/page133.png" width="365" height="197" alt="" /><br />
- <span class="figcaption">DRAWINGS AND DETAILED LISTS FORWARDED<br />
- ON RECEIPT OF TWO POSTAGE STAMPS.</span>
-</div>
-
-<table summary="data">
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">1.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Nutt's Collateral Bee-Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td class="tdr">15</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 16s.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">2.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Single-box Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">3.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Shallow-box or Eight-bar Hive, complete with cover</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">10</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">4.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Amateur Bar Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">5</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">5.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Neighbour's Improved Cottage Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">15</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">6.</td>
- <td class="tdl">An Improved Cottage Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">8</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">7.</td>
- <td class="tdl">The Ladies' Observatory or Crystal Hive. Price complete</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">5</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">8.</td>
- <td class="tdl">The Cottager's Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">10</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">9&nbsp;</td>
- <td class="tdl">&amp; 10. Bee Feeders</td>
- <td class="tdr">each&nbsp;<sup>5</sup>/<sub>.</sub>&nbsp;and</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">4</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">11&nbsp;</td>
- <td class="tdl">&amp; 12. Fumigators</td>
- <td class="tdr">each&nbsp;<sup>2</sup>/<sub>.</sub>&nbsp;and</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">13.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Honey Cutters<span class="pagenum" id="Page_134">- 134 -</span></td>
- <td class="tdr">per pair</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">5</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">14.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Improved Cottage Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">With Stand, &pound;1. 10s.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">15.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Fountain Bee Feeder</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">18.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Eight-bar Straw Hive, complete</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">12</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stock Hive only, 15s.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">19.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Huber's Book or Leaf Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">5</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">20.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Unicomb Observatory Hive</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">24.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Taylor's Glasses</td>
- <td class="tdr"><sup>7</sup>/<sub>.</sub></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">4</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdl">Payne's ditto</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">25.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Bell Glass</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">4</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">26.</td>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">27.</td>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">28.</td>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<span class="smaller">without knob and flat top to put on the table
- inverted, price with lid</span></td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">4</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">29.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Zinc Cover</td>
- <td class="tdr">each <sup>7</sup>/<sub>6</sub> and</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">10</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">30.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Shallow Glasses (new shape)</td>
- <td class="tdr">each&nbsp;<sup>5</sup>/<sub>6</sub>&nbsp;and</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">31.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Bee Dress and Protector</td>
- <td class="tdr"><sup>5</sup>/<sub>.</sub>, by post</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">37.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Zinc Cover</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">16</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">38.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Ornamental ditto</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">5</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">39.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Bee House to contain Two Hives</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">10</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">40.</td>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Twelve Hives</td>
- <td class="tdr">&pound;15. and</td>
- <td class="tdr">19</td>
- <td class="tdr">10</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr"></td>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury Unicomb Hive</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr vtop">42.</td>
- <td class="tdl">&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;"&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Bar and Frame Hive, complete with outside<br />
- &nbsp;&nbsp;cover and super</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">3</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdc smaller" colspan="2">Stand for ditto, 10s. 6d.</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">44.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Bottle Feeder</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">2</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">45.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Woodbury Straw Bar and Frame Hive (Stock Hive)</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">1</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">46.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Engraved Pressing Roller</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">7</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td colspan="3"></td>
-</tr>
-<tr>
- <td class="tdr">47.</td>
- <td class="tdl">Impressed Wax Sheets or Artificial Combs per dozen</td>
- <td></td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
- <td class="tdr">6</td>
- <td class="tdr">0</td>
-</tr>
-</table>
-
-<hr class="chap" />
-
-<hr class="tb" />
-
-<div class="transnote">
-
-<p class="caption3nb">Transcriber Note</p>
-
-<p>Minor typos corrected. The words floor-board and floorboard were both
-retained.</p>
-
-</div>
-
-
-
-<div style='display:block; margin-top:4em'>*** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE APIARY; OR, BEES, BEE-HIVES, AND BEE CULTURE (1865) ***</div>
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