iv PREFACE. 



its,) is capable of exciting the delight and enthusiasm of 



all intelligent observers. The Creator may be seen in all 



the works of his hands ; but in few more directly than in 



the wise economy of the Honey-Bee. 



" What well appointed commonwealths! where each 

 Adds to the stock of happiness for all ; 

 Wisdom's own forums ! whose professors teach 

 Eloquent lessons in their vaulted halll 

 Galleries of art ! and schools of industry ! 

 Stores of rich fragrance ! Orchesti'as of song ! 

 What marvelous seats of hidden alchemy ! 

 How oft, when wandering far and erring long, 

 Man might learn truth and virtue from the BEE !" 



Borvnng. 



The attention of Clergymen is particularly solicited to 

 the study of this branch of Natural History. An inti- 

 mate acquaintance with the wonders of the Bee-Hive, 

 while it would benefit them in various ways, might lead 

 them to draw their illustrations, more from natural objects 

 and the world around them, and in this way to adapt 

 them better to the comprehension and sympathies of 

 their hearers. It was, we know, the constant practice of 

 our Lord and Master, to illustrate his teachings from the 

 birds of the air, the lilies of the field, and the common 

 walks of life and pursuits of men. Common Sense, Ex- 

 perience and Religion alike dictate that we should fol- 

 low his example. 



L. L. LANGSTROTH. 



Gnenjkli, Mass,, M<iy 25, 1853, 



