PREFACE. 



In presenting this work I have no apology to 

 make. After an experience with bees dating 

 almost from childhood, and a careful study of all 

 works published on the subject of bees, and the 

 journals devoted to that particular branch of rural 

 affairs, I find theory, guess-tvork, prejudice and 

 selfish motives are so prevalent, as to confuse and 

 discourage the beginner, and finally, all who are 

 seeking after information by which they may make 

 bee keeping a source of profit, and who wish to 

 adopt a correct and scientific system of bee manage- 

 ment. 



In my early efforts at bee keeping, I met with 

 many failures and heavy losses, from being con- 

 fused by the contradictory teachings of selfish or 

 ignorant bee keepers, and from a lack of that per- 

 sonal knowledge which experience, and a close 

 study of the nature and habits of bees, has now 

 placed in my possession. After many unsuccess- 

 ful experiments, and careful investigation, and a 

 close study of the natural habits and instincts of 

 bees, I have succeeded in inventing a hive and new 

 system of bee management which completely 

 changes the whole process of bee keeping, and ren- 

 ders the business safe, pleasant and profitable. 



