Abstract: A supply tank 11 from which adhesive will be dispensed by an applicator wheel 12 to the flap of a carton incorporates a valve assembly 16 connected through an inlet 20 to a pressurized supply of molten adhesive. The adhesive will enter pockets 19 in a rotating feed member 14 carried by a shaft 13 and mounted in a housing 15. If the level of adhesive in the supply tank 11 falls below the top of an outlet 21 from the housing 15 then any charge of adhesive within a pocket 19 passing the opening 21 will be dispensed into the supply tank 11 by gravitation. There is no direct connection between the pressurized supply to the inlet 20 and the outlet 21.