July 30th.
Sir,—We have read your letters in The Times with the greatest interest, partly because we have been for some years bee-keepers on the more sensible plan of saving the little creatures' lives, and partly because we are anxious to induce our neighbours (poor cottage folks) to follow our example, and give up the disgusting smothering process. We have taken off a glass of honey weighing full twenty pounds, and have another equally well filled to remove; but should be very grateful for your advice as to the means of getting rid of the bees from the super when it is withdrawn, a part of the process not described in your letters, and one which we cannot manage without much trouble, and the murder of many insects. We use, for stock, common straw hives, with flat tops, and a hole in the centre, which we cover with a piece of zinc or slate, easily removed when we wish to put on the super. But the bees always continue the comb up through this hole into the glass; then, when the latter is removed, there is always broken comb and running honey, to which the bees cling, and to which they return again and again, and we find the greatest difficulty in dislodging them.
You likewise recommend covering the stock-hives in winter with paper, for warmth. Will you kindly tell us whether you consider it best to close the entrance also?
My only apology for thus intruding on you must rest on our ignorance, and on your benevolent and enlightened zeal for the good of the poor, and for the lives of the much ill-treated insects.
I am, Sir, yours obediently,
H. C.
I enclose a stamped envelope, in case you prefer writing to me rather than again to The Times.
Press a zinc plate between hive and super, and on removal substitute a very small empty bell bee-glass, and cover it with woollen cap. On no account close the entrance to the hive.
August 1st.
My dear Sir,—I have read with much interest your letters in The Times respecting our little friends the bees, and as one of your many readers, I beg to thank you for your valuable hints. Will you, however, complete the matter by giving us one hint more, and that is, as to how you manage with the bees which may remain in the compartment which you remove? I have used the lateral wooden hive, but have always found a difficulty in getting rid of the bees which remained in the box which I have taken away. One year I took a lateral box full of honey, but lost it in consequence of the bees having taken it all away again. I, by the advice of a neighbouring bee-master, had it placed in a cool part of the garden. If you will kindly tell us how you manage in this respect, you will greatly oblige.