18 Bee-Keeping Simplified for the 
VII._THE ESTABLISHMENT AND MANAGEMENT OF 
A STOCK. 
A swarm, as already described, consists of only the bees 
and their queen. When they have built combs and are estab- 
lished upon them, the term colony is applied. A stock consists 
of bees and combs, together with their home. 
The best time to commence bee-keeping is in the Spring, 
with « swarm obtained as early as possible. The hive should 
Fic, 21. 
be purchased in February so that it may be painted and the 
internal fittings got ready without undue haste. A position 
should be chosen facing as near §.E. as possible; the entrance 
must not be facing a road or path, or there will be the danger 
of living creatures passing in front being stung by the out- 
