If it is found that the bees are in want of aliment, it will be a good plan to place at the entrance of the hive raisins or dried figs beaten up,2127 as also carded wool soaked in raisin wine, boiled2128 must, or hydromel, and sometimes even the raw2129 flesh of poultry. In certain summers, too, when long-continued drought has deprived them of the nutriment which they usually derive from flowers, similar food must be provided for them.
When the honey is taken, the outlets of the hive should be well rubbed with melissophyllum or broom,2130 beaten up, or else the middle of it should be encircled with bands of white vine, to prevent the bees from taking to flight. It is recommended, too, that the honey-pots and combs should be washed with water: this water, boiled, it is said, will make an extremely wholesome vinegar.2131