384 INVERTEBRATES. 



perform the different parts most amicably by turns. Such is their 

 diligence, that in one day they can build and complete cell? foi 

 three thousand bees. 



Observe and admire their sagacity in the formation of their 

 cells. As the compass is very limited within which their cells are 

 formed, they use the smallest possible quantity of materials, so 



Queen Bee. Working Bee. Drone. 



that there is no unnecessary thickness in the partition-walls. Theii 

 edifice too is so formed, that they have the greatest degree of ac- 

 commodation in the smallest space. And they employ the spot in 

 such a way that no room whatever is lost. The shape of thp cells 

 is hexagonal, that is, six equal sides. By this shape there is an 

 economy of wax, as the partition of one cell makes the partition 

 of the next. Thus no material is lost. Then these cells joined 

 together, there is no loss of space, as there is no void. And there 

 is, by this shape, greater capacity or room within the cell, than by 

 any other form. The mouth of each cell is made considerably 

 thicker and stronger than any other part, as it is most exposed. 



The combs lie parallel to each other. Between each of them 

 ther J is a space left, which serves as a' street, and is of sufficient 

 tjrcadth to allow two bees to pass each other without inconvenience. 

 There are also holes which go quite through the combs, and serve 

 as lanes for the bees to pass from one comb to another, without 

 being obliged to go a great way about. 



The royal cells are much larger than any others, and are of 

 an ovalshape. When a worker larva is placed, in a royal cell, and 

 fed in a royal manner, it imbibes the principles of royalty, and 

 becomes a queen accordingly. This practice is adopted if the queen 

 bee should die and there be no other queen to take her place. 



