30 SOUTHERN BEE CULTURE 



plements") over the wire pressing down just enough to imbed them well into 

 the foundation; but be sure, before this is done, that the wires rest tightly 

 across the foundation, which can be done by pressing the frame down over the 

 fitting piece under the foundation. As the frames are finished, set them in 

 the hives and wedge the division-boards up against them, and they are ready 

 for the bees. 



As previously stated, there are other styles of modern hives and supers, 

 and some of them are used in the South ; but I have given the construction 

 of the three most commonly in use here. Some of our Southern bee-keepers 

 use what is called a ten-frame hive, which is constructed the same as I have 

 described, only they are just a little wider. There is no doubt that these ten- 

 frame hives are the best for extracted honey in locations where they some- 

 times have overwhelming crops of honey; but generally the eight- frame hive 

 will answer all purposes. There are also many bee-keepers who use shallow 

 frames and shallow supers for extracted honey. The hive I have described 

 for chunk honey can also be operated for extracted honey and the frames 

 wired if desired. 



The close observer, as he puts his hives together, will notice a small 

 space all around and through the fixtures of the hive. This space is called 

 a "bee-space," allowing them a passage all through and around in the hive, 

 making the hive as convenient and suitable for them as possible; and notice, 

 too, how quickly and easily all the fixtures can be removed from the hive 

 and set back, giving the bee-keeper a "quick and easy access to the bees and 

 all parts of the hive. 



The writer will never forget the first modern hive he constructed, and 

 the length of time he was at it; but he soon learned the "kinks," and hive- 

 construction has always been a pleasure to him. 



SUBDUING BEES. 



Bees are irascible insects ; but they can be so completely conquered or 

 subdued with smoke that they vnU not offer resistance, even to an intruder 

 upon them removing their young or their only source of living (honey) 

 With proper precautions and protection (using vests and gloves), and a good 

 smoker, any one can be safe and feel comfortable among bees. But he must 

 let them know on approaching them that he is to be master of the situation. 

 Never go out into the apiary to molest the bees without having the smoker 

 full of good fuel and well burning. 



On approaching a colony of bees to do certain work in it, send in a few 

 whiffs of smoke at the entrance ; then with the hive-tool pry the cover loose 

 and send in smoke along the crack a few moments before you raise it high 

 enough to let the bees escape; for if you let any out at the opening of the 

 hive they will be sure to -g^ive you trouble. As soon as they have been 



