FORTY YEARS AMONG THE BEES. 



93 



of the upper and lower boards running; in opposite direc- 

 tions, with a ^ dead-air space between them; at least it 

 would be dead-air if it were not for cracks, and I do not 

 consider the cracks a necessary part if the covers were 

 properly made. The whole is covered with tin and 

 painted white. The lower surface is perfectly flat, with 

 no cleat projecting downward, for such cleats do not help 

 rapid and easy handling. Such a cover is light, safe from 

 warping and twisting, is cooler in summer than the plain 



Fig. 30. — Batted Queen. 



board cover, and warmer in winter. The greatest objec- 

 tion is the cost ; I think they cost 25 cents or more each. 



