Mr. John F. Cowan, in his article on “The Practical use of Foundation,”
published in the BEE JOURNAL of March 9, says: “It has been practically
demonstrated to my satisfaction that these results can only be obtained
by Mr. Given’s method of introducing the wires, and if by a happy
combination the Dunham foundation could be made and wired by the Given
or a similar process, the foundation controversy would be virtually
ended.”
I would like to say to Mr. Cowan and others who may be interested, that
last season I hived about 40 full sized natural colonies, on Dunham
foundation, in Quinby frames, prepared in the following manner: The
frame is wired by sewing in 2 horizontal wires, spaced off so that
there will be 3 equal spaces from the top bar down. I use a triangular
top bar and fasten the foundation by pressing it down to the bar with
the thumb and then running a stream of melted wax and rosin over it.
Then by running a wheel, made of a cent, over the wire I imbed the
wire into the foundation; this also forms a groove in the foundation
in which I run a stream of melted wax which covers the wire, and
when drawn out will be perfect and will neither sag nor break out by
extracting. There should be a good half inch of space between the
foundation and bottom bar, as it will settle enough to bulge the comb
if left full length. To give it a thorough trial I hived 2 heavy
natural colonies in one hive with the mercury at 90 in the shade and
basswood honey coming in very fast, and when drawn out every comb was
perfect. By bending a spoon so that it will pour a small stream and
with a little practice, you will find it a short task to fasten the
foundation in the frames.
Genoa, N. Y., March 14, 1881.
For the American Bee Journal.
Importing Bees from Italy.