i;6 LIFE WITH THE HAMRAN ARABS. 



work in turn to make another about four feet higher up ; 

 and very hard work it was, for they had only brought 

 with them a little native hatchet, and the moon not 

 as yet having risen, with only the light of a small fire 

 to guide them. When this feat was accomplished, the 

 lower hole was opened and some burning wood pushed 

 into it, and immediately the bees came pouring out of 

 the upper one. After allowing them a little time to dis- 

 perse, an Arab thrust his hand into the newly-made hole, 

 which was situated directly above the hive, and brought 

 out piece after piece of well-filled comb in excellent 

 condition, until no more could be reached, and then we 

 returned home with the spoil. 



