INTRODUCTION 
Ir is only in comparatively recent years that 
attention has been given to bee-keeping on a 
scientific basis. Aforetime there were certain 
traditional methods to be followed to secure 
the honey harvest, but those who practised them 
knew neither the why nor wherefore. To-day, 
however, thanks to the observations of our great 
scientists on the life and habits of the bee, to 
their patience and diligence in noting the in- 
sect’s manner of working, we are in possession 
of knowledge which has enabled the practical 
bee-keeper to reduce the old haphazard ways to 
method, orderliness, and definite purpose. 
The budding bee-keeper, as he reads one or 
other of these great works on the bee and its 
ways, may begin to wonder if it is not all too 
wonderful for him to deal with, and if he may 
ever hope to become proficient in the art and 
practice of bee-keeping. Let me say, here and 
now, that, given patience, perseverance, and 
diligence, a measure of success is open to anyone 
who brings intelligence into his work. Al- 
B 
