[B33]

Sept 16 - 1858

Briefly describe Bee cell

Begin with nest of Bombus.

Intermediate nest of Melipone - small instincts make spheres too close & then build intermediate walls - perhaps from point of intersection, more likely 2 Bees can judge if intermediate line, from fixed stand-points. Slightly perfect instinct of Melipone & we shall have Bee cell - give mathematical theory.

Now let us see what evidence of theory & 2d how Bees work.

Excavate thick wax into basins shows spherical tendency - I doubt if ever hemispheres for they tend to raise spheres above level. But when work on thin wax on opposite sides of actually excavate pyramidal bases, so this not theory. May seem difficult how perceive thickness - bend walls.

[B33v]

It is simplest view to look at marginal ridge, as move built wall & the Bees work in like they did in my Vermilion Knife-edge ridge of wax but hardly true. That they build in relation to true form of cell is shown not only by adding to edge of hexagon, but by more important cases, where on Zinc-rod they have laid hexagonal outline on flat surface.

[B34]

now how do they work? Build saucers not as wall as Huber described. It wd be nothing odd if wall is made first like artificial walls - describe steps, add wall on summit? Say there are some special difficulties proof to be discussed? whether discuss straight side of arch without Bees working round.

? First cells pentagon?

Discuss ridge round old comb. This is my puzzle, study edge of comb what relation whether a built wall or pieces corresponding to middle of each plane - certainly has some relation to each plane. If built wall is related to each separate plane it must be commenced in middle & this agrees with Bees often excavating in middle.