12 THE BUSINESS OF BEE-KEEPING 



The fact, perhaps, that so many in poor health or otherwise 

 unfortunate have taken to bee-keeping may be in part responsible 

 for the general impression that, as a business, it amounts to little. 

 The writer knows many men of perfect health, good business 

 ability, and other qualities that contribute to success in any call- 

 ing, who are devoting their time and energies to this business, 



Fig. 7. — House built from one honey crop from less than 300 liives. 



and it is from the inspiration of their success that he hopes to 

 draw for whatever of merit this book may possess. 



The Returns. — A most important consideration is the finan- 

 cial return, for expenses must be met, families are to be sup- 

 ported, and most of us must have a care to make ends meet. 

 While there are those who keep bees in a very large way, with a 



