120 BEES AND BEE-KEEPING. 



frame is also provided with metallic fastenings, to 

 hold the combs firmly in their place until properly 

 secured by the bees ; and are so adjusted as to secure 

 the proper space between the combs at all times, 

 fixing them in a perpendicular position, and retain- 

 ing them firmly and immovably in their place, yet 

 being easily removed when desired. 



The mode of ventilating this hive is new and 

 novel. In cold weather the air is admitted into the 

 graduated chamber below, from which it passes up 

 into the hive, and escapes through an opening above, 

 carrying off the* foul air. This is very essential in 

 wintering bees; cold winds are thus excluded and 

 plenty of air supplied. Another important feature 

 is the ease with which admittance can be had to 

 the interior of the hive, by the peculiar manner in 

 which the door and lid are arranged, giving free ac- 

 cess to every part of the hive ; and when closed it 

 is free from water running into and standing in the 

 joints, as often occurs where a cap is set in a rabbet 

 or groove. 



The general construction of this hive is pleasing 

 to the eye, as well as being in conformity with the 

 natural wants of the bee ; it is also cheap and easily 

 constructed. Any one or more combs can be taken 

 out with ease and dispatch, when necessary to ex- 

 amine the condition of the colony ; to make artificial 

 swarms to supply queenless colonies with embryo 

 queens, or combs which contain eggs or young larva, 

 from which they will rear queens ; and when it be- 

 comes requisite to equalize the stores of honey and 



