HIVES. is 



and at the same time not interfere with other points 

 of their nature ; but this subject will be discussed in 

 the next chapter. Those peculiar traits in their na- 

 ture, mentioned in this, will be more fully discussed 

 in different parts of this work, as they appear to be 

 called for, and where proof will be offered to sustain 

 the positions here assumed, which as yet are nothing 

 more than mere assertions. 



CHAPTER II. 



BIVES. 



ETTES TO BE THOBO0GHLT MADE. 



Hives should be constructed of good materials, 

 boards of good thickness, free from flaws and cracks, 

 well fitted and thoroughly nailed. 



The time of making them is not very particular, 

 providing it is done in season. It certainly should not 

 be put off till the swarming period, to be made as 

 wanted, because if they are to be painted, it should be 

 done as long as possible before, as the rank smell of 

 oil and paint, just applied, might be offensive to 

 the bees. 



But what kind of hive shall be made ? 



In answer, some less than a thousand forms have 

 l3een given. The advantages of bee-keeping depend 

 as much upon the coostruction of hives, as any one 

 thing ; yet there is no subject pertaining to them on 



