.§xiv.] REMOVING SUPERS. 267 



In such a case, replace the glass, and 'recommence the 

 operation on a future day. It is not often that her 

 majesty is in the depriving-hive or glass; but, this cir- 

 cumstance does sometimes happen, and the removal at 

 such a time must be avoided. When the bees that are 

 prisoners run about in great confusion and restlessness, 

 the operator may conclude that the queen is absent, and 

 that all is right. The glass may be taken away a little 

 distance off, and placed in a flower-pot or other recep- 

 tacle, where it will be safe when inverted and the tin 

 taken away ; the bees will then be glad to make their 

 escape back to their hive. A little tapping at the sides 

 of the glass will render their tarriance uncomfortable, ' 

 and the glass may then be taken into a darkened room 

 or outhouse, with only a small aperture admitting light, 

 which must be open; the bees, like all insects, make 

 towards the light, and so escape (see description of 

 " Bee-Traps," Chap. IV. § xviii.). The bee-master should 

 brush them off with a feather from the comb as they can 

 be reached ; but on no account should the glass or other 

 super be left exposed and unwatched, because the bees 

 that have the opportunity will gorge themselves to their 

 full, and speedily bring a host of others from the adjacent 

 hives, who, in a very little time, would leave only the 

 empty combs. It is truly marvellous how soon they will 

 carry all the store back again, if allowed to do so. Unless 

 the honey season is over, an empty glass should be put on 

 • to the hive in place of the full one, as it will attract the 



