44 
On Rational Bee-Keeping. 
CHAPTER VII. 
HOW TO TEST THE TRUE VALUE OF A HIVE. 
It is of the greatest importance in establishing 
an apiary to make sure of the value of the hives 
which are going to be placed there. 
Mistaken directions are often given on this 
head in works on bees. 
A hive may be very heavy and contain a 
considerable colony of bees in February, though 
destined to perish soon afterwards. Never 
mind about the weight of the hive, therefore ; 
but make sure — 
1. That there be sufficient store of food to 
last till the flowers come out. 
2. That the colony be numerous and the bees 
lively. 
3. That the comb be in good condition ; and, 
above all contain brood in the 
midst of the cluster of bees at the end of February 
