6 CONSTRUCTIVE BEEKEEPING 



They generally know what they want and fight to do it in their 

 own way. 



The bee is an economical "fellow." Efficiency is his last 

 name. For ages before our time he has been working at the 

 same task that he has brought to such perfection. The bees that 

 have excited the amazement and wonder of the world as build- 

 ers of geometric comb, with all its economy and strength, the 

 bees that make from the nectar of the flowers the honey, that is 

 the superlative of all things sweet and good; have not stopped 

 with these two achievements, but have maintained a marvel with- 

 in their home, which, when understood, will amaze us more 

 than ever. 



The bees collect propolis (despised by the beekeeper) and 

 with infinite work and a knowledge of the laws of condensation 

 cf moisture, have varnished the inside, sealed all openings that 

 v/ould give upper ventilation, making out of their home a perfect 

 condenser for the water vapor that has filled the hive air by 

 evaporation from the nectar. This moisture they collect from the 

 inside surface of the hive, works right in with their idea of econ- 

 omy, saving the carrying of water from the stream or spring. 



CO-OPERATION 



One great discovery in beekeeping was the beespace. When 

 this space was within the limits that conform to what instinct 

 told them was best, peace between the beekeeper and his bees 

 was established along this line. 



A similar misunderstanding is on at the present time about 

 the best way to get rid of the moisture in the hive. The bees, 

 from the habits and customs, carried down for ages, contending 

 that condensation is the system best adapted to their mode of life, 

 while the beekeeper is trying to force them to use the ventilating 

 system. I think that the beekeepr, being a most sensible person, 

 will see the error of his way and eventually follow where the bee 

 leads. The bees but show their contempt for ventilation when 

 it is at its best. 



