being afraid of them." Whether this internal armor would be sufficient in all cases, I am not ready to aver. If their irascible properties were in action, I should choose to keep at a respectful distance. Equally skeptical am I with regard to the creed that they will not sting the members of the family where they abide. An old lady, distinguished for kindness to all the inferior creation, especially to her own retainers, used to say it was well to go out frequently and speak pleasantly to the bees. She thought them susceptible of pleasure from the attention, and cultivated by it. Acting upon her own suggestion, and regarding their marked characteristic of neatness, she arrayed herself in a clean cap and collar for the especial benefit of her apiary, and flattered herself that her visits were manifestly acceptable. How far this was an amiable illusion I do not pretend to say, but think the peculiar lineaments of this remarkable insect have never been fully and philosophically deduced.
I always participate in their resentment when their lawful property, the treasures of their labor, are reft away, and give continual charge that my portion be not made exorbitant. Yet there is always enough for us both; and the fragrant, streaming comb, is grateful to neighbors and invalids. Indulge me, kind friend, in reciting that fine passage from Shakspeare's Henry V., which first inspired me with the desire to be an owner of bees. But the wonderful poet, who understood so
