PASTURES OF BEES. 103 



surrounding the shaft, and past the projecting 

 rim which almost closes the entrance to the tube 

 of the calyx, it drinks its fill, and flies off for the 

 hive, to deposit its treasure, and profit by experi- 

 ence on a future trip. Far different is the manner 

 of the bee that has been at the work before ; it 

 wastes not a moment of the time which the 

 approach of winter renders doubly valuable, but 

 at once alights on the flower, runs to its centre, 

 and plunging its tongue into the liquid sweet, 

 hurries back loaded to the hive." 



Ancient writers speak of the practice of remov- 

 ing bees to fresh pastures every autumn, as com- 

 mon in their times ; and this practice is still 

 continued in many parts of the world with great 

 advantage to bee-keepers. Towards the end of 

 August, when wild flowers have almost dis- 

 appeared, and gardens are fading, and clover is 

 no longer in blossom, it is very desirable to find 

 some fresh pasturage for the bees. The autumnal 

 transportation of bees is approved of in the east, 

 and also in many parts of the European continent ; 

 but in England it is seldom adopted. Neverthe- 



