INTEODUCTION. V 



No indnstrial or material employment can be more inno- 

 cent, or less inconsistent ivith their proper Wbrk. 



There are few portions of our country which are not 

 admirahly adapted to the culture of the Honey-Bee. The 

 wealth of the nation might be increased by millions of 

 dollars, if every femily favorably situated for bee-keeping 

 would keep a few hives. No other branch, of industry 

 can be named, in which there need be so little loss on 

 the material that is employed, or which so completely 

 derives its profits from the vast and exhaustless domains 

 of Nature. 



I trust that Mr. Laitgsteoth's labors will contribute 

 greatly to promote a department of Rural Economy, which 

 in this country has hitherto received so little scientific 

 attention. He well deserves the name of Bene&ctor ; 

 infinitely more /So than many who in aU countries and in 

 all ages have received that honorable title. Not many 

 years will pass away without seeing his important inven- 

 tion brought into extensive use, both in the Old and New 

 World, Its great merits need only to be known; and 

 this, 'Kme will certsdnly bring about. 



ROBERT BAIRD. 



