THE COTTAGE AND FA1?M BEE KEEPER. 19 



entrance might, and I think with greater advantage, be grooved out 

 of the floor board itself, having a gradual ascent into the middle of the 

 hive. The wooden hoop recommended above " gives greater stability 

 to the hive, (says Mr. Taylor,) preserves the lower edge from decay, 

 and affords facility in removing it" — all weighty reasons in its favor. 



Some persons will probably object to the larger hive on account of 

 its size. I am, however, perfectly convinced* that large hives are fa- 

 vorable to the production of large swarms, without the securing of 

 which no apiary can be reputed as well conducted, neither certainly 

 can it be profitable. To all who are disposed to dispute it, I say, give 

 large hives a fair trial, and they will fully agree with me. 



* See Appendix, Note B. 



