II.— ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY OF THE 

 BEE. 



^LTHOUGH the principal object in compiling the 

 present work has been the endeavour to induct 

 our readers into the way of keeping bees according to 

 the most recent and approved methods, it requires but 

 little apology for thus apparentiy deviating from our 

 prescribed course, by devoting a small portion of our 

 space to a description of the anatomy of the wonderful 

 litde creatures whose labours all our contrivances are 

 intended to assist, and since it will at once be admitted 

 that a knowledge of their habits is not only interesting to 

 the bee-keeper, but enables him to conduct his apiary in 

 accordance therewith. 



Of the insect tribe, the bee is certainly the most dis- 

 tinguished ; with the exception of the silkworm, none can 

 approach her in ministering to the wants, or rather to 

 the luxuries, of the human family. The instinct bees 

 possess for feeding on flowers, bringing home honey and 



