254 bee-keeper's manual. 



the bee, it being barbed like the shaft of an arrow, and 

 it meets with so much resistance, when the bee attempts 

 to withdraw it, that she is forced to leave it behind. 



I would observe in regard to exciting bees to the use 

 of their stings, that the apiarian should never repulse an 

 attack ; no matter how many nor how furious they may 

 dash at you, when performing some operation that ex- 

 cites them, always keep calm, and pay not the least re- 

 gard to their anger. If you find that they are coming 

 rather too hot, discretion may dictate a retreat, even 

 when fully protected with a bee-dress and gloves ; and 

 let your retreat be slow and cautious ; and if any dense 

 shrubbery be at hand, run your head into it for a minute 

 or two. I have been exposed to their attacks, when 

 their excitement was so great, that they would dash 

 against the wire-cloth with the violence and sound of 

 hail against the windows, in a storm ; at which time the 

 odor from their venom-bags was very strong. It is best 

 to retreat, when such a crisis exists, for a fewjpinutes, 

 and let them cool down a little. 



When you have a pair of thick woollen mittens or 

 gloves on, you need not fear in the least, that you will 

 be stung. Let as many bees attempt it as may please, 

 do not withdraw your hand suddenly from any position, 

 when covered js^ith them, even if they try their best to 

 sting you ; as I have already observed, that any sudden 

 motion tends to arouse their anger. 



