In describing, as above, the various hives and frames, some hints have been given as to the methods of handling them. This, however, will not suffice for an induction to the mysteries of practical bee-keeping, and we must refer the reader to a subsequent section, wherein the details as to manipulation will be fully explained, and the results of the experience of several distinguished apiarians will be embodied. TAYLOR'S IMPROVED COTTAGE HIVE. [Illustration] This hive is similar in principle to the cottager's. It is also similar in size, with the exception of being quite straight at the sides. A zinc rim affords protection from the weather. Under the upper straw hive a bell-glass is worked. A mahogany adapting board, with a four-inch hole in the centre, corresponding with that of the hive, supplies an even surface for the glass to rest on, and facilitates its removal when full. For particulars as to stocking and management, see directions for cottager's and improved cottage hives, pages 72 and 83. EIGHT-BAR STRAW HIVE. [Illustration] This is an ingenious contrivance of Mr. Taylor's. Hoops are worked in the straw, both at the top and bottom of the stock-hive, and in the upper hoop are openings cut to receive eight comb bars; each bar is one inch and an eighth wide, with a space of half an inch between. Since the introduction of square straw bar and frame hives, these hives have not been much in request. Considerable inconvenience is found to arise, because the bars, being of unequal lengths, cannot be interchanged one with the other. The description given of Taylor's Amateur Hive, and mode of stocking and furnishing it with guide-comb, apply to this hive. The large straw hive raised up in the engraving is an outside case; the roof is a large zinc cover. If placed in a bee-house, the outside case and zinc roof are not required. NEIGHBOUR'S UNICOMB OBSERVATORY HIVE. This hive is well adapted for those persons who are desirous of having the opportunity of closely examining the workmanship of the industrious and interesting inmates. It is particularly intended for a window recess or an indoor apiary, and will also be found an interesting addition to the green-house. Bees cease to appear disturbed when exposure to the light is continuous. This discovery enables the bee-keeper to gain a full inspection. The hive should be screened from the direct rays of the sun, which would worry the inmates, and be otherwise prejudicial. An aperture should be cut in the sash corresponding with the entrance to the hive, through which the bees may find egress and ingress, without being able to gain access to the apartment, as described for the ladies' observatory hive (page 78). [Illustration]