THE APIAKY. 103 



them, but it is seldom, unless a large number enters. 

 AVhen bees are taken beyond their knowledge of coun- 

 try, some two miles or more, the result is somewhat 

 different, but not always without loss,, especially if many 

 hives are set too closely together. They leave the hive, 

 of course, without knowing that the situation has been 

 changed ; and perhaps get a few feet from it, before strange 

 objects inform them of the fact. When they return, the 

 immediate vicinity is strange, and they often enter their 

 neighbor's domiciles. Experience has satisfied me that 

 stocks should occupy their situation for the summer, as 

 early as possible in the spring, at least before they mark 

 the location ; or, if they must be moved after that, let it 

 be not less than a mile and a half, with plenty of room 

 between the stands. 



SPACE BETWEEX STAKDS. 



Regarding the distance between hives generally, I 

 would say, let it be as great as convenience will allow. 

 Want of room sometimes makes it necessary to set them 

 closer. Where such necessity exists, if the hives were 

 dissimilar in color, some dark, others light, alternately, it 

 would greatly assist the bees in recognizing their own 

 hive. But it should be borne in mind, that whenever 

 economy of space dictates less than two feet, there are of- 

 ten bees enough lost by entering the wrong hives, to pay 

 the rent of a small addition to a bee-yard. I have several 

 other reasons for recommending plenty of room between 

 hives, which will be mentioned hereafter. 



SMAIL MATTBBS. 



The reader who is accustomed to do things on a large 

 scale, will consider so much attention to such a small matter, 

 rather unnecessary, but attention to little things insures 

 success. A grain of wheat is insignificant in itself — ^it is 



