144 SPRING. 



once, when oees are being robbed. It requires the closest 

 scrutinizing observation to decide. 



DIFFICULTY IN DECIDING. 



There is nothing about the apiary more difficult 

 to determine, nothing more likely than to be deceived. 

 It is generally supposed, when a number are outside 

 fighting, that it is conclusive that they are also rob- 

 bing, which is seldom the case. On the contrary, a 

 show of resistance indicates a strong colony, and that 

 they are disposed to defend their treasures. I no 

 longer have any fears for a stock that has courage to 

 repel an attack. 



WEAK FAMILIES IN MOST DANSEE. , 



It is weak families, that show no resistance, where 

 we find the most danger. In seasons of scarcity, all 

 good stocks maintain or keep sentinels about the 

 entrance, whose duty it appears to be to examine 

 every bee that attempts to enter. If it is a member 

 of the community, it is allowed to pass ; if not, it is 

 examined on the spot. It would seem that a pass- 

 word was requisite for admittance, for no sooner does 

 a stranger-bee endeavor to get in, than it is known. 

 If without necessary credentials, there is evidence 

 enough against it. Each bee is a qualified jurist, 

 judge, and executioner. There is no delay ; no wait- 

 ing for witnesses for defence. The more a bee attempts 

 to escape, the more likely it will be to. receive a sting, 

 unless it succeeds. How strange bees are known, 

 would be nothing but theory, if I should attempt to 

 explain. Let it suffice that they are known. 



