INTRODUCTION. V 



may find in observing the habits of these wonderful little 

 creatures. How remarkably does their entire economy 

 illustrate the wisdom and skill of the Great Author of 

 all things. 



I cannot but believe that many of the Ministers of the 

 Gospel, residing in rural districts, will accept of Mr. 

 Langsfcroth's most generous offer to give them the free 

 use of his Invention. With very little labor or expense, 

 they can derive from bee-keeping considerable profit, as 

 well as much pleasure. No industrial or material em- 

 ployment could be more innocent or less inconsistent with 

 their proper work. 



There are few portions of our country which are not 

 admirably adapted to the culture of the honey-bee. The 

 wealth of the nation might be increased by millions of 

 dollars, if every family 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. Langstroth's labors will contribute 

 greatly to promote a department of rural economy, which 

 in this country has hitherto received so Httle scientific 

 attention. He well deserves the name of Benefactor ; 

 infinitely more so than many who have in all countries 

 1* 



