Ever and again in the history of aëronautical development during the last century there occurred a movement in favour of the hélicoptère or vertical screw machine, and now when flying machines have advanced to a practical stage the question again appears. Many will have doubtless followed with interest the series of letters which has been appearing in “Engineering” since early in the year, in the course of which several engineers of repute have advocated the hélicoptère in no uncertain manner.

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.

I have been requested to write a short paper on the flight of the flying fish and the lessons which this act may afford in the steering and management of an aëroplane in flight.

As yet we are still striving to attain success in aërial flight by means of a machine heavier than air. Many remarkable flights have been recorded quite recently, and the art of aviation has advanced during the past few months by leaps and bounds. It now appears clear that under favourable conditions, still air, or with but a moderate wind and an open course, an aëroplane may be constructed, or soon will be, which can remain in the air as long as the motive power which drives the propeller is maintained, or practically as long as the supply of petrol capable of being carried holds out.