124 WAX. 



cells join, there -will be some cells of irregular shape ; 

 some -with, four or five angles ; the distance from one 

 angle to the other is also varied. Even where two 

 combs of cells the same size join, making a straight 

 •comb, they are not always perfect. 



SOME WAX WASTED. 



When constructing comb, they are constantly wast- 

 ing wax, either accidentally or voluntarily. The next 

 morning after a swarm is located, the scales may be 

 found, and will continue to increase as long as they 

 are working it ; the quantity often amounts to a hand- 

 ful or more. It is the best test of comb-making that I 

 can give. Clean off the board and look the next morn- 

 ing,, you will find the scales in proportion to their 

 progress. Some will be nearly round as at first ; oth- 

 ers more or less worked up, and a part will be like 

 fine saw-dust. 



Huber and some others have divided the working 

 bees into different classes, denominating some wax- 

 workers, others nurses, and pollen gatherers, &c. It 

 may be partially true, but how it was found out is the 

 mystery. 



The angles in the cells used for brood, are gradual- 

 ly filled, and after a time become round, both at the 

 ends and sides. 



WATER NECBSSART TO COMB-MAKING. 



"Whenever bees are engaged making comb, a supply 

 of water is absolutely necessary. Some think it re- 

 quisite in rearing brood. It may be needed for that, 



