62 PROFITABLE BEE-KEEPING 



quantity of British wax thrown upon the market, 

 owing to the fact that much of it is converted 

 into foundation by the bee-keeper for his own use. 



Wax in bulk sells for about 1/8 per pound, or 

 2/- if it be melted into one-ounce cakes for re- 

 tailing over the counter. 



The utilization of honey and wax in the manu- 

 facture of articles for domestic use or for food is 

 becoming an increasingly large industry, and I 

 know at least one extensive bee-keeper who has 

 built up a large trade. This line is very useful 

 where, owing to the district, a crop of dark honey 

 is secured. Dark honey makes but a low price 

 on the market, but answers admirably for the 

 making up of confectionery; better, in fact, than 

 the light honey of more delicate flavour. 



This class of trade has of course to be created 

 and built up by canvassing shopkeepers and by 

 advertisement, but when once the trade has been 

 secured it is very remunerative. Recipes for 

 various articles may easily be obtained, but I give 

 two excellent ones for mead and honey vinegar. 



In selling swarms the motto should be to get 

 them as early as possible, and for this reason it is 

 well not to give the bees too much room. Eight 

 frames will be ample, and every incitement should 

 • be given them to swarm in May. Swarms should 

 be sold by weight, which is the fairest ,way for 

 both buyer and seller. If it be a May swarm, 

 charge 3/- per pound; if the month of June or 

 early July, 2/6 is the usual price. 



