IIIVES. 
13 
and at the same time not interfere with other points 
of their nature ; but this subject will be discussed in 
the next chapter. Those peculiar traits in their na- 
ture, mentioned in this, will be more fully discussed 
in different parts of this work, as they appear to be 
called for, and where proof will be offered to sustain 
the positions here assumed, which as yet are nothing 
more than mere assertions. 
CHAPTER II. 
f HIVES. 
HIVES TO BE THOROUGHLY MADE. 
Hives should be constructed of good materials, 
boards of good thickness, free from flaws and cracks, 
well fitted and thoroughly nailed. 
The time of making them is not very particular, 
providing it is done in season. It certainly should not 
be put off till the swarming period, to be made as 
wanted, because if they are to be painted, it should be 
done as long as possible before, as the rank smell of 
oil and paint, just applied, might be offensive to 
the bees. 
But what kind of hive shall be made? 
In answer, some less than a thousand forms have 
been given. The advantages of bee-keeping depend 
as much upon the construction of hives, as any one 
thing; yet there is no subject pertaining to them on 
