57 



water previously measured, and mix thoroughly ; then place in it the 

 No. 2 hydrometer, note the number to which it sinks, and multiply 

 by 10 ; place the decimal point before the result, and add i. Thus, if 

 it registers 43, 43 X 10 = 430 ; place the decimal point before the 

 430 = -430 ; to this add i, which is the specific gravity of water, the 

 result being 1-430. 



The instrument is made with various scales, according to the density 

 of the liquid to test which it is required. Each degree is equal to 

 5 degrees specific gravity ; for example, 80 degrees Twaddel is equal to 

 1-400 sp. gr., as 80 X 5 = 400 + 1,000 = 1-400 sp. gr. 



The cost of the appUances is a mere nothing compared with the 

 importance of making tests, as every beekeeper should assist in arriving 

 at a reliable standard for ripe honey. A Twaddel's hydrometer as 



Fig. 42. — Twaddel's Hydrometer: Method of Testing. 



shown in the figure, or two instruments with a range from 1-350 to 

 1-400 in one and 1-400 to 1-450 in the other, with a suitable test-glass 

 and thermometer, cost about 12s. or 14s. 



Ripening Honey inside and outside the Hive. 



The practice of ripening honey outside the hive has been much 

 discussed of late years, and apiarists who have carried out experi- 

 ments report varied successes. Generally speaking, this method cannot 

 be recommended. The beginner should be careful to extract none but 

 well-sealed combs. By extracting unripe honey, fermentation will 

 often result, much to the detriment of the producer. Too much care 

 cannot be exercised over this important matter. A better flavoured 

 and better keeping honey is produced by allowing it to age in the hive, 

 extracting only perfectly sealed combs. 



