At the most noble the MARQUIS of BLANDFORD'S,
DELABERE PARK, PANGBOURN, (near READING,)
BERKSHIRE.
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[CHAPTER X.]
APIARY AT DELABERE PARK.
Having stated (in [page 144]) that "I have well-authenticated, indisputable proofs of the abundant produce of honey having been taken from collateral-boxes, and that of very superior quality too," I could, in support of this statement refer the reader to a great number of my apiarian friends, a bare catalogue of whose names would fill several pages of this book. But as the best proofs of the merits, advantages, and practicability of anew system, are in its established success, I will select one instance, and have great pleasure in referring to that of the apiary established on my principles, at the seat of my noble patron—the Marquess of Blandford, at Delabere Park, near Reading. Situated in a part of the country most abundantly favoured by nature,—effete with every variety of Bee-herbage, and with every local advantage combined in its favour, the noble Marquess has prosecuted his apiarian pursuits with a spirit of liberality and enterprize redounding to his credit, and well meriting the success which has equalled my own as it has his most sanguine expectations. I do not consider that I can introduce this better to the notice of my readers, than by transcribing the account of a visit, that was paid to it by my intelligent friend Mr. Booth, the Lecturer on Chemistry, and which appeared in the Stamford Mercury of July 26th, 1833. It is as follows:—
"To the Editor of the Mercury.
"Sir,