OVERSTOCKING. 239 



Mr. Quinby continues to say: "I would advise a 

 little caution in this matter. First, the ability of 

 your district to support its hundreds, gradually and 

 safely, or some unfavorable season may bring about 

 very disastrous results. Now, if by expressing these 

 views I should discourage any from attempting bee- 

 culture, I can only regret it ; it is my experience, 

 and may be of service to some that are disposed to 

 rashness. All the experience and knowledge that 

 can be had, ought to be clearly set forth for the benefit 

 of the new beginner. 



"If we in this country cannot keep one hundred 

 and forty stocks to the square mile, we can keep a 

 less number ; enough, at least, in most places, to pay 

 better for money invested and labor bestowed, than 

 with any other kind of stock. I say this after an 

 experience of over thirty years. ' The half-loaf is 

 better than no^read.' Do not refuse one thousand 

 dollars because it is not two. Obtain the requisite 

 instruction for the proper management of bees, and 

 success will follow as a matter of course." 



To this I would add, when you find your bees are 

 not advancing and thriving as they should do, take 

 it for granted that it is for want of suitable pasturage 

 or food. Proceed at once to supply them, either by 

 feeding in the manner I have directed, or by flowers 

 raised for their especial benefit. It is much easier to 

 cultivate and produce enough pasturage in addition 

 to that from natural sources, to supply one hundred 

 hives of bees, than it is to provide pasturage for one 

 hundred head of sheep, and the profit on bees will 

 more than double that of sheep. 



