On the Construction of Detailed Parts of Aeroplane Flying Machines

Extract

I write promptly on this very important subject, as time with me is on the wing. I have passed fourteen years beyond the three score and ten of life allotted to man. For many years I have at times brought up the subject of flying, and if I say a few words concerning myself I may, perhaps, be exempt for incurring a charge of egotism.

My training has been that of a marine engineer. I was present at the early trials of “Archimides”—the only screw steamer then afloat. I was but a small boy then, but ever since have taken a keen interest in screw propulsion. It may, therefore, be asked why I did not apply a screw propeller to my design of a flying machine in 1866, but no motive power except steam was then known, and I could not imagine the practicability of carrying a supply of water and fuel up in the air and therefore had to consider the possibility of the strength of a man being sufficient to propel the machine. For this purpose the adaptation of a screw propeller was not feasible, as the man, having other matters requiring his attention, could not be solely occupied in turning a winch-handle. I, therefore, proposed to adapt a pair of oars to be worked by treadles.