It is the duty of every intelligent bee-keeper to know the exact condition of his stocks at all times, and if from any cause he has a weak stock, be sure to ascertain the cause of their weakness, and if they are healthy stocks, contract the entrances, in accordance with the number of bees to pass. But if they are found to be diseased, remove them. The bee, like the human race, is much better able to defend itself against the attacks of an enemy when there is but one avenue of approach, than if there are several. No refuse honey should be placed in the open air, accessible to all the bees alike, as this would be very likely to create a desire for plunder, and incite robbing. Never, when a stock is being robbed, change it from one stand to another a few rods distant, to prevent robbing; for this is a very great injury to the stock, as all the bees that have marked the location (at the season when robbing will most likely occur,) will return to the old stand, and be lost. The best remedy, or rather preventative against robbing, is to contract the entrances to the hive. After bees have once commenced robbing, and have been successful in capturing and plundering one stock, they will, as soon as they have secured the honey from that one, attack some other with great impetuosity. Success in plundering renders them very courageous; but if you have contracted the entrances as directed, they will be very likely to meet their match, and learn a good lesson. A little punishment is necessary to teach them their proper place.