FIKTY YEARS AMONG THE BEES 87 



and lower boards running in opposite directions, witli a % 

 dead-air space between them; at least it would be dead-air if it 

 were not for cracks, and I do not consider the cracks a necessary 

 part if the covers were properly made. The whole is covered 

 with tin and painted white. The lower surface is perfectly flat, 

 with no cleat projecting downward, for such cleats do not help 



Fig. 30 — Balled Queen. 



rapid and easy handling. Such a cover is light, safe from warp- 

 ing and twisting, is cooler in summer than the plain board 

 cover, and warmer in winter. The greatest objection is the cost ; 

 I think they cost 25 cents or more each. 



Two of these tin covers will be seen at Fig. 37, the one at 

 the right showing the under surface of the cover. 



