CHAPTER XI 



WAX. 



Wax is the substance of which the bees construct 

 their combs. This is not an elementary or natural sub-' 

 stance ; but it is produced by elaboration. The most 

 universally-acknowledged theory of the production of 

 wax is, that it is an exudation from the abdomen of the 

 bee, through the openings of the scaly rings which com- 

 pose that portion of the honey-bee, and that honey is 

 the only original substance from which it emanates. 

 This is Iruly a wonderful theory, and without a perfect 

 knowledge of the economy of the bee, relative to comb- 

 making in particular, one might be justified in casting 

 ridicule upon it ; but when we take into consideration 

 all the circumstances attending their labors, in this de- 

 partment of their duties, we find abundant evidence that 

 honey is the original substance from which wax is pro- 

 duced, and that its elaboration takes place within the 

 bee, coming forth in strings of pearly whiteness. 



HONEY AND POLLEN THE ONLY SUBSTANCE THAT BEES 

 GATHEE. 



The only material that bees are known to gather is 



