299, THE BEE-KEEPER’S MANUAL. 
a smaller portion of the ale, in the hive where they 
are. After this is done, before they have recovered, 
sweep the smoked bees uniformly among the combs 
of the hive destined to receive them. Clean and 
scrape its floor-board, and as soon as symptoms of 
returning animation begin to appear, replace it, 
turning the whole again into the right position. All 
that remains is to station it at once in its allotted 
place or stand. Before the hive is left, clear away 
from the entrance any bees that may have fallen 
down, so that the passage for alr may not be 
obstructed. In the absence of fumigators like those 
described, it is very practicable to make use of a 
common pipe and tobacco; but the latter should be 
of a mild kind, and not too freely used, or many 
deaths might ensue. 
Some apiculturists are expressing strong objec- 
tions to the entire practice of stupefying bees— 
maintaining that it is most injurious in itself, by 
weakening the powers of the workers, and, through 
the queen, affecting future generations. It may 
readily be conceded that to get into a state of 
helpless unconsciousness is not a salutary pro- 
ceeding, either for bees or their masters; but in 
reference to the former we use the term “anes- 
thetic”’ instead of ‘ intoxicant’—indeed, the anes- 
thetic chloroform has been used in the process by 
some—and whether there is any radical difference 
between the physical effects of the two agencies or 
not, the change of words gets rid at least of an ugly 
association. Still, it may be taken as advisable that 
the operation should not be needlessly prolonged, 
