226 



THB bbb-kebpbr's guidb ; 



The bottom-board (Fig, 94) has a raised rim. Thus the 

 frames are one-half inch from the bottom. Of course, the 

 bottom-board is loose. Mr. Heddon recommends single-story 

 wide-frames with separators for the sections. These are alsc 

 secured by the screws, and so any frame or the whole case can 

 be reversed at will. 



Of course, the old Heddon case without separators could be 

 used, but could not be reversed. The points of excellence 

 claimed for this hive, and I know from my experience that 

 they are real, are easy contraction of brood-chamber, quick 

 inversion of the brood-chamber or section-case, ease and quick- 



FiG. 94. 



Heddon Bottom-Board. — From James Heddon. 



ness of manipulation, and the interchangeableness of the 

 brood-chambers forming the hive, and the power we have by 

 quick and easy contraction of the brood-chamber to get all 

 light-colored honey in the sections if we so desire. 



Mr. J. M. Shuck has also patented a hive for which he 

 claims the same advantages gained in the new Heddon hive. I 

 have not worked with it enough to recommend it. I fear the 

 hives are too complex for the general bee-keeper. The fact, 

 too, that perfection of work and measurements despite our best 

 care are very rare, urges against this hive, as it must be very 

 accurate or it is a sore vexation. I advise all to go slow in 

 adopting them, as we know the old, tried ones are excellent. 1 



