14 A Modern Bee-Farm 



though his surroundings, and space at command, will largely 

 influence his actions. 



Bee-Keeping for Recreation. 



While the greater number of amateurs endeavour to get all 

 the profit they can out of their bees, there are many who keep 

 them because of the pleasure afforded by studying their 

 habits ; though, ' of course, the delight experienced iii being 

 able to place pure honey, in its most chaste form, upon one's 

 own table, and that of friends, is by no means a secondary 

 consideration. Nothing can be more appreciated than a 

 present of beautifully white honeycomb in sections or bell- 

 glasses ; and what, moreover, can exceed the pride and 

 pleasure in thus being able to present that which is your own 

 production ; a thing of beauty, which has been gradually 

 " growing " under your own fostering care. 



The busy man who occasionally spends a few minutes 

 with his bees, finds healthful and soothing recreation for both 

 body arid mind ; and fortunate are those whose leisure gives 

 them almost unlimited time to carry but the study of these 

 remarkable insects. It can truly be said that they are a 

 never-failing source of interest, there being always something 

 new to discover, either as to their habits or management. 



Modern bee-keepers are enthusiasts, and among all who 

 study the subject there is a general understanding and mutual 

 sympathy. The novice may therefore go toils nearest neighbor 

 who may -be following the pursuit, and be certain of a hearty 

 welcome, and a free gift of all the knowledge about bees that he 

 may have gathered by many years of practice; but never- 

 theless, just here, I advise the beginner not to go to his- more 

 expert neighbor every time a difficulty occurs. He must bear 

 in mind his past lessons, and strive to help himself. 



It does not much matter at what time of the year you may 

 begin in a small way ; you have first to gain confidence in 

 handling bees before you can make much out of them. Get 



