and its Economic Management. 13 
that they are a never-failing source of interest, there being 
always something new to discover, either as to their habits 
or Management. 
Modern bee-keepers are usually enthusiasts, and among 
all who study the subject there is a general understanding 
and mutual sympathy. The novice may therefore go to his 
nearest neighbour who may be following the pursuit, and 
be certain of a hearty welcome, and a free gift of all the 
knowledge about bees that he may have gathered by many 
years of practice; but nevertheless, just here, I advise the 
beginner not to go to his more expert neighbour every 
time a difficulty occurs. He must bear in mind his past 
lessons, and strive to help himself. 
It does not much matter at what time of the year you 
may begin in a small way; you have first to gain confidence 
in handling bees before you can make much out of them. 
Get some friend or other apiarist of experience, if possible, 
to overhaul the stock you wish to purchase, and be guided 
by him as to its value. In the absence of friendly advice, 
you cannot do better than buy a first swarm from some 
cottage bee-keeper. Obtain your hives from a well-known 
maker, and do not select the cheapest style, as makeshift 
hives of this class are dear at a gift, and your expected 
pleasure will be somewhat marred, and your manipulations 
sadly complicated. 
While the number who may be capable of making 
bee-keeping their main occupation will be limited, almost 
anyone can keep a few colonies at great advantage to 
health, and at the same time make them pay their own 
way. Even the scientist need not go to any great expense 
over his investigations, as with ordinary care his bees can 
be made to return all the money he may require to lay 
out for such purposes. 
The cry of “over-production” is but a false alarm, and 
