ARTIFICIAL SWARMS. 
259 
four bom's; and then is not alwaj T s safe. After it has 
had time to hatch, (which is about eight days after 
being sealed), cut it out, and examine it: if the lower 
end is open, it indicates that a perfect queen has left 
it, and all is safe ; but if it is mutilated or open at the 
side, it is probable that the queen was destroyed be- 
fore matunty, in which case, another cell will have to 
be given mem. 
ARTIFICIAL SWARMS ONLY SAFE NEAR THE SWARMING SEASON. 
By what I have said about artificial swarms, it 
would appear that it is unsafe at any time but the 
swarming season ; that is my opinion. It may do a 
little in advance or a little after, providing royal cells 
can be had. By feeding as directed, (in Chapter IX.) 
you may induce a stock to send out a swarm some 
days in advance of the regular season, thereby giving 
you a chance for these cells somewhat early. 
SOMETIMES HAZARDOUS. 
To make such swarms at any time. when the bees 
are destroying drones, would be extremely hazardous, 
not only on account of the young queen being im- 
pregnated, but their massacre denotes a scarcity of 
honey. Therefore I would advise never to make 
swarms, or drive out bees at such periods, when it can 
be avoided, without spare honey is on hand to feed 
them. 
SOME OBJECTIONS. 
It has been argued by some, and with much reason, 
that “ nature is the best guide, and it is better to let 
