When we are examining a frame, we generally cover the others over with a cloth, for the bees do not like the light to penetrate their city. The frame having been replaced and the second chamber put on, we cover all over with thick pieces of felt to keep the hive warm, and on top is placed the roof. The hive stands on four legs, a few inches above the level of the ground, and the door is generally sheltered by a kind of porch. In front of the door there is a board which projects a few inches, and this is called the alighting-board. On it the bees settle when returning from the fields, and from it they commence their flight when leaving the hive. CHAPTER XXI A VISIT TO A HIVE Let us now imagine that we are to pay a visit to a hive. If we are afraid of stings we may put on thick leather gloves and tie our sleeves around the wrists, to prevent any curious bee from investigating our arms. Then over our hats we may place a veil, to keep the bees from our face, for a sting in the eye would be a serious matter. The bee-man in Plate XVII. is wearing a veil, as you will see, and the brim of his straw hat is useful to keep it at a little distance from his face, so that the bees are not able to sting through it. Before we approach the hive I must tell you one thing; if a bee flies around you and comes rather closer to your face than you care about, do not on any account hit it away. Bees, like some human beings, are very curious by nature, and they like to investigate anything strange that comes under their notice. Never mind if one of them comes crawling over your hand, or even if it steps inside your ear! It will not hurt you if you keep still, but should you knock it away with your hand, it will become angry, and probably you will be stung there and then. [Illustration: PLATE XVII From a photograph by] [E. Hawks Examining a Comb]