A 1,003,681
TREATISE ON THE AEROPLEUSTIC ART
rans
71
800
T78
NIVERSITY OF MIC

OF MICH
MICHIGAN
VERSITY
UNIVER
THE
ARTES
SERI
1817
ÎL · LIBRARIES ·
1
APPLICATIONS RESPECTING THE CHARVOLANT
Addressed to Mr. GEO. M. GILBERT, EALING, Middlesex, will be duly
attended to, and where the Kites for Travelling may be seen in operation.
ORDERS FOR THE PATENT PORTABLE JUVENILE KITES,
Addressed to G. GILBERT, 55, Parliament Street, Westminster; and
A. POCOCK, Broad Street, Bristol.
Prices, with Cordage, &c., complete, from 7s. 6d. to 12s. 6d.
THE PATENT PORTABLE GLOBES.
These Globes are extremely portable, and when inflated form a
most elegant and useful ornament for the Drawing-room or Library.
They are manufactured in three sizes, 6 feet, nine feet, and 12 feet in
circumference, of very strong tissue-paper, and if accidentally torn
they can be readily repaired by pasting a piece of thin paper over the
rent in the interior. The Globes are either inflated by hand (of
which method directions are given below), or by the means of a small
air-pump. Sections of the smallest size Globe are prepared for the
use of Schools and those who may be desirous of improving them-
selves in the Science of Geography.
MODE OF INFLATING THE GLOBE BY HAND.
Unfold the Globe, and taking it in one hand, holding by the hoop
at the southern extremity, wave it to and fro horizontally, by which
process the folds are separated; then place the Globe so that the
hoop or orifice rests on the ground, and taking hold of the little stud
at the top, raise the sphere gently from the ground and let it down
again, and after a few movements in this way the object is effected.
Prices from 10s. 6d. to Two Guineas.
HOUGHTON, 162, Bond Street, London; A. POCOCK, Broad Street,
Bristol.

60 70 80 90 80 70
60 50 40 30 20 10
NW
Angle of Kites incidence Larboard
Sw
30 10 50
Wind due South
0 10 20 30
40 50
07 of
S
0
01 02 08
SE
NE
Angle of Kites incidence Starboard
0 60
60 70 80 90 80 70
50 40
First Starboard Tack.
e
Second Tack Larboard
Patent Kite and Charvolant,
Shewing by Mariners Compafs the Points of Cars Traverse against the Wind.
POCOCKS PATENT
L
A TREATISE
ON
THE ÆROPLEUSTIC ART,
Or Navigation in the Air,
BY MEANS OF
KITES, OR BUOYANT SAILS:
WITH A DESCRIPTION OF THE
Charvolant, or Kite Carriage.
AND CONTAINING NUMEROUS MOST AMUSING AND INTERESTING
ANECDOTES CONNECTED WITH SEVERAL EXTRAORDINARY
EXCURSIONS BOTH BY SEA AND LAND.
With Characteristic Illustrations, Drawn on Stone,
BY ROSE GILBERT,
FROM DESIGNS BY DAVID COX, JUN.
LONDON:
LONGMAN, BROWN, AND CO., PATERNOSTER ROW.
M.DCCC.LI,
Transp
800
T78
Transportatio
Howes
2-12-29
-

*
DIVERSITY OF MICHIGA
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
INTRODUCTION.-THE WIND.
"Oft sighing soft among the tree-tops high,
In melody so sweet and mournful heard,
As though some angel, touched with human grief,
Soothed the sad mind. Yet oft, with wildest might,
They rive the yielding bark or battlement,
And lend the tempest wings."
As the grand moving principle of the Eropleustic science
is the WIND, we shall introduce the subject of our treatise by a
few brief remarks on that element. The wind is air in motion,
than which nothing in nature can become more terrific, nothing
more serviceable. By its impetuous rage, tower and palace.
are riven, and totter to the dust; the oak is shivered
into a limbless trunk; and the most potent works of man
crumble into ruins: while heaven, earth, and sea are filled
with devastation. Then it is that the proud eagle is dashed
from her rocky eyrie, and the wreck of the tall vessel strews the
Yet of what infinite service, and how delightful are its
suavities. Wafted by its gales, and fanned by its breezes, com-
ocean.
4
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
merce and pleasure career over the billows, and all nature is
gladdened. Of such importance are all its movements, that to
explore the laws by which it is regulated has been the pursuit.
of philosophy for many years. Its sudden and its gradual
risings its uncertain and its periodical returns-its regular and
its fluctuating courses-its repose and its fury-are phenomena
which have forced themselves upon the mind, and have led
thinking men to search for their mysterious causes. Of these
not a few have been discovered; and we may now anticipate
the scientific development of the sublime theory of the winds,
with an accurate synopsis of their universal economy. But that
which affects mankind is their appropriation of this element, of
which all nations have more or less availed themselves, in pro-
portion to their scientific acquirements, their philosophical
tendencies, or their acquaintance with the principles of me-
chanism. This mighty agent has been successfully employed in
winging navies, and all the multitudinous craft of the ocean;
and in giving revolution to machinery on land. Yet there are
territories, rarely explored, traversed by this irresistible power,
where a sail was never unfurled, where mechanism was never
introduced, and where invention never spread a successful
pinion. These are the higher regions of the atmosphere, where,
when the winds sleep below, there are powerful and steady
currents rapidly floating. These have hitherto passed almost
unnoticed, because their lofty career has placed them far above
human control. Seamen have often felt chagrined when they
have viewed the light clouds scudding swiftly aloft, while not a
single breath would stoop even to their sky-sails.
But as this
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
5
subject will come under its proper head, we shall close these
remarks by observing that, though powers cannot be confined
to earth, inechanism may ascend, and embrace their services.
THE ORIGIN AND PROGRESS OF THE INVENTION.
"DOGE. Some thirty years ago-it seems to me
As fresh as yesterday-being then a lad
No higher than my hand, idle as an heir,
And all made up of gay and truant sports,
I flew a KITE, unmatch'd in shape or size.
It soar'd aloft,
Soar'd buoyantly, 'till the diminish'd toy
Grew smaller than the falcon, when she stoops
To dart upon her prey.”
FOSCARI, a Tragedy.
WHEN a boy, the inventor of the BUOYANT SAIL amused him-
self by attaching to the string of the common paper kite a
stone, which it would rapidly draw along the ground; by
experiment, he found that if the stone was very light, the kite
would fly swiftly away with it, and thus, unduly ballasted,
would soon fall to the earth. By attaching a stone of heavier
weight, a diminished speed was obtained, and the kite con-
tinued floating at an uniform height. Greater elevation was
soon after obtained, by fastening to the back of a second kite
the end of the first kite-string, and the draught-power of the
6
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
two, combined, now carried out a great length of line. Like
the old Doge Foscari, the inventor observed:-
"I sent for cord,
Playmate on playmate hurrying, till the kite
Shrank to the size of a beetle; again I called
For cord, and sent to summon father, mother,
My little sisters, my old halting nurse-
I would have had the whole world survey
Me and my wondrous kite."
Subsequently it was found that by attaching several kites one
after another, each with its length of line, that they might be
elevated above the clouds, and their draught power almost in-
definitely increased. Hence arose several new ideas connected
with their practical application. The first test of their power
of traction was made by attaching the kite-line to the end of a
board, on which a person took his seat. So great, however,
was the velocity with which this rough sledge was hurried along,
that all attempts to overtake it were quite fruitless; it was
stopped solely by being deposited, as safely as it was swiftly, at
the bottom of a quarry, where the fortunate adventurer was
found in possession of his runaway equipage. The next practical
application of the power of the BUOYANT SAILS was made by
attaching them to a four-wheeled car, when it was found that a
full party were easily drawn along the turf. After this positive
proof of draught power, thoughts frequently occurred of getting
a carriage constructed for the express purpose of being drawn by
kites, which, after several years, was attempted. The proper
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
7
control of the vehicle was a subject of much difficulty, and
although many progressive advantages had been obtained, the
whole scheme was abandoned for a considerable time, from the
great inconvenience of carrying the kites, whose dimensions
rendered them unportable and liable to be broken; even when
laid by, they occupied much room. As, however, it had been
ascertained that with this novel draught-power, travelling might
be performed at the rate of twenty miles an hour, such advan-
tages could not be tamely abandoned. The idea now occurred
of constructing the BUOYANT SAIL with joints, which, after
many trials, perfectly succeeded, and they now became portable,
and occupied but a small space. Till this period, the covering
of the kite had been of paper; it was now made of linen, and
not subject, like the former material, to injury from rain and
rough weather, and was every way more durable. The kites
might now be taken with the car without inconvenience, and
this advantage suggested many improvements in the car itself.
Much had been now accomplished; but there were difficulties
still unsubdued, quite sufficient to render the whole scheme
abortive. It was now known how to obtain any requisite power
of traction, but the control and the direction of that power
whilst aloft in the air still remained a desideratum. To raise
these BUOYANT SAILS was easy: to stand against them-to
take them down again-laborious. Again, when travelling with
them, it often became necessary, in order to prevent the entangle-
ment of the cordage in lofty trees, to detach them from the car.
This required great strength, and occasionally much more than
the travelling party could command; the toil was necessarily
8
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
great, and all idea of making the system pleasurable was again
relinquished.
Notwithstanding, these difficulties from time to time chal-
lenged invention, which occasionally seemed to gain some little
advantage, attended by not a few defeats, until at length the
complete management of the BUOYANT SAILS was discovered,
in the reduction of their power, and the steerage of their course.
These desiderata brought with them other ideas, tending to
novel adaptations, of which the principal was its aquatic applica-
tion. The first trial of these BUOYANT SAILS was on Charleton
Pond, an extensive sheet of water belonging to the Earl of
Suffolk, the use of that nobleman's pleasure-boat being kindly
granted for the purpose. It was now proved beyond doubt
that the kites might be used for maritime purposes with certain
success, for which purpose, however, many improvements were
requisite. This first experiment by water was productive of an
occurrence as unexpected as that attendant on the first trial by
land. While scudding along under these BUOYANT SAILS, an
oar had dropped overboard, and, having no means of stopping
the progress of the boat, the party traversed to the nearest
shore, where the Kites were given in charge to some country
boys, while the boat was rowed back to pick up the oar. When
returning, loud cries were heard from the shore; the boys were
already dragged close to the edge of the water, into which they
must have been inevitably drawn but for the interposition of
some trees. It appears that a new comer, in his eagerness to
help, had hauled upon the brace-line, by which the draught kite
was brought into full action, so that the more the boy pulled,

UNIV
OF
MICH
On Stone by B. Gilbert."
A Pocock Lath Bristol.
THEY HAVE BEEN DRAGGED BY THE KITES CLOSE TO THE WATER"
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
9
the more did the kite; by letting out this line, however, (whose
use we shall shortly notice) this increase of power at once sub-
sided, and the party were placed at their ease.
EARLY USES OF THE COMMON KITE.
ANTECEDENT to the present invention, the boys' toy, the paper
kite, had suggested several experiments for its application to
valuable purposes. A Franklin was buoyed up and wafted by
it in safety over the surface of a pool; at an after period, that
ingenious electrician employed it as a vehicle for the lightnings,
by which he could draw them in safety from the sky, and con-
duct them to the depot of his batteries, charging and exploding
them at pleasure. This sublime use made of the kite, has
certainly given it a degree of immortality, being attached to
the name of that great philosopher, and mentioned in the list of
his transcendant experiments. So invariable has been its
general association with puerility, that a general impression has
been made of its uselessness; its practical and scientific charac-
ter, it is hoped, will now redeem this mechanical agent from
this unworthy stigma. That Buoyant Sails have never been
brought into actual service is most certain, or ancient history
would have preserved some record of their existence, which
would have besides been confirmed by some of the numerous
10
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
relics of art still subsisting. A sufficient cause of this silence,
both in the ancient and modern world, may be found in the
slight knowledge evinced of the principles and tendencies of
this mechanic power; or their practical application must have
encountered insurmountable difficulties.
•
THE CONSTRUCTION, MANAGEMENT, AND POWER OF
THE PATENT KITE.
THOUGH the shape may vary, the Pilot, or uppermost kite,
should be of the common, or circular-headed form. The pecu-
liarities of the invention are these:-The Kite is made to fold
up; the standard is divided into two equal lengths, or, if the
Kite be very large, into three; the wings have hinges at the
head of the standard, and, if of large size, each wing is divided
into two parts, having a second pinion-joint. For the flight-
band two lines are used; the upper stationary, the latter, termed
the brace-line reeves through an eye in the upper line, both of
which are continued down to the hand of the conductor. By
hauling on the brace-line, the Kite is brought up to the wind
in its full action, approximating more nearly than before to a
perpendicular to the earth; by slackening the brace, it floats
inactively on the wind; and thus, its power is instantly in-
creased or lessened. By the same means, the Kite is elevated
or lowered at pleasure, soaring or sinking in proportion as the
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
11
varying angles are formed by the Kite's surface. Another
branch of this system consists in the application of two side-
braces, the one attached to the right, the other to the left-hand
extremity of the Kite. These have an action similar to the
reins of a gig-horse. By straining upon the right-hand brace,
an obliquity is given to the Kite's surface, on which obliquity
the wind acting, the Kite veers instantly to the right-hand; by
hauling on the larboard brace, the action is reversed. By this
movement the traverse is performed, trees and other obstacles
avoided, and many advantages gained. By the invention of a
back-band, a tandem-equipage of indefinite power is obtained,
and these Buoyant Sails elevated to a vast height.*
*
THE POWER OF THE PATENT KITE.
THE power of a kite twelve feet high, with a wind blowing at
the rate of twenty miles an hour, is as much as a man of
average strength can stand against. With a stronger gale, such
a kite has been known to break a line capable of sustaining
200 lbs. The surface spread by this sail is forty-nine square
feet, and it should be noticed that these serve as standing
ratios, from which, by the rule of proportion, the power of
* The Kite used for travelling may be seen in action in the grounds at Good-
enough House, Ealing, Middlesex.
12
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
larger kites can be calculated. We must not, however, suppose
that a kite of thirty-six feet in length, has only three times.
the power of a kite twelve feet in length; for, in fact, it has
three times the power in length, and three times the power in
breadth, which will make the multiple nine; so that it would
lift or draw nine times as much as a kite of twelve feet. Two
kites, one fifteen feet in length, the other twelve, have power
sufficient to draw a carriage with four or five persons when
the wind is brisk.
The foregoing descriptions will furnish exercise for imagina-
tion, suggesting to the active and ingenious mind, the appliance
of the system to a variety of purposes consonant to his own
train of thinking; its adaptations, which are exceedingly nume-
rous, shall now be noticed under the following heads:-
1st. Its adaptation to novel and maritime enterprise.
2nd. Its utility in the military career.
3rd. Its advantages in crossing rivers, and various uses
which the narrative will point out.
MARITIME ADAPTATION.
1st. THEY will serve as auxiliary sails to merchantmen and
yachts. After spreading all the canvas possible in the usual

UNIV
OF
MIC
ICH
On Stone by R. Gilbert.
SHIPWRECK. CREW SAVED BY MEANS OF THE KITES.
APocock, Lith, Bristol.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
13
way, very considerable power may be added by the application
of these Buoyant Sails as auxiliaries; and this power may be so
attached as to counteract the injurious pressure which a crowd
of canvas is known to occasion, not unfrequently causing an
undue dip of the vessel on its lee; for let it be remembered that
the draught-power of these sails, while aiding progress, is also
exerted in buoying up the vessel-an advantage which the skil-
ful navigator will know how to appreciate and apply. Again,
there are seasons when common sails are of no use to a vessel;
for it frequently occurs that there is wind above, when none
stirs below, the gale dying away at sunset which during the
day was very brisk. The mariner knows by experience that it
first forsakes him upon deck, till presently, as it still continues
creeping upwards, he derives not the least benefit, except from
a light breeze in his sky-sails, and that too finally departs.
But where has it flown? This is not generally known; for on
such calm and clear evenings nothing is seen moving in the
atmosphere, and all around and above appears to be in a state
of perfect quiescence. This, however, is far from being the
case; for it is experimentally known to us that, on such an
evening, just in proportion as the wind dies away below, its
action is generally quickened above; and, from numerous prac-
tical trials, we have found that, at the height of about two hun-
dred yards in the atmosphere, there is a steady current of air
actively flowing at the rate of sixteen miles an hour, when there
is not a breath below.
This powerful stream of air flows generally from sunset to
midnight, and sometimes runs into the next day. With this
14
THE BUOYANT SAIL,
knowledge, the wary seaman will sail his pilot-kite before
sunset, to which he may add as many as may be neces-
sary. It is there, then, where the proudest mast never raised
its aspiring head, nor the loftiest pennant flew, at a height that
sea-boy never ascended, that a surface of canvas may be spread
with an effect and power hitherto not understood.
Numerous successful experiments have been made with
the Buoyant Sails attached to boats, &c.
Some few years
since the inhabitants of Portsmouth and Gosport assembled
on the beach to witness one of the trials. The barge
of the Victory having been kindly offered for the pur-
pose, Lieut. B—
with a boat's crew, accompanied by
the inventor and two of his sons, embarked at South-Sea Beach;
the Kites used on this occasion, were a 12 feet Pilot, and 20 feet
Draught Kite. A fine breeze was blowing at the time, and, amidst
the shout of the spectators, the barge proceeded on her course.
Nothing could exceed the astonishment depicted on the
countenances of the boat's crew, not a word escaped the lips of
either for some time, until the boat, having distanced not only
sailing vessels but steamers also, one old veteran gave way; and
thundered out one of those peculiar nautical phrases, the sub-
stance of which we leave to the imagination of the reader.
Steering for Ryde, in the Isle of Wight, the boat proceeded
rapidly on her course, and quickly approached the shore. The
pier was crowded with people, who had been attracted by the
novelty of the spectacle, and when the barge touched the sands,
a general rush was made towards the spot, to examine the ap-
pliances. Wonder was displayed in each countenance, and many

On Stone by R. Gilbert.
A Pocock Lith Bristol
SUCCESSFUL SAIL FROM PORTSMOUTH TO THE ISLE OF WIGHT.
UNIV
OF
CH
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
15
were the inquiries respecting the management of the Kites.
Since this period, many aquatic excursions have been made, and
a description of one at the close of this treatise cannot fail to
interest the reader; indeed, there is no doubt as to the practi-
cal utility of these Buoyant Sails. On the occasion referred to
above, many naval men, who had seen considerable service, ex-
pressed their opinion that the Kites might be rendered very
efficient on board ship, particularly for signals, and in cases of
shipwreck. It would be well to mention a circumstance here,
in illustration of statements which have been introduced con-
cerning the frequent failure of the wind below, when there is
a good breeze aloft.
The master of a fishing-smack purchased a set of the portable
Kites, and took them with him to sea. It happened that on
his return from his trip, his vessel, well laden with fish, and
being in company with several smacks similarly circumstanced,
he found the wind failing towards the close of the day; the
thought of the Kites immediately suggested itself to his mind,
and without delay he had them raised to a considerable height,
and experienced the truth of the statement which he had received
respecting them, for immediately the Kites gained the influ-
ence of the current above, the craft bore away from the fleet,
and, with her cargo, arrived in the harbour several hours before
her numerous consorts, and by this means the master realised a
considerable profit.
16
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
USES IN CASES OF SHIPWRECK,
To convey a rope on shore in cases of shipwreck is of the utmost
importance. For this purpose, a Storm-kite has been recom-
mended; but from the description given of it, its practical appli-
cation is impossible. It has been proposed to fasten a small
anchor to the Kite's tail; the surest method of preventing the
proper action of the Kite. In order to drop this anchor, when
suspended over shore, the string of the Kite was to be let out
suddenly, that the whole might drop together to the earth. In
this case, the chances of the grappling-iron taking hold are small
indeed; and if this effort is not successful, no second attempt
can be made with that Kite. Now the Patentee's Kites are un-
furled and ready instantly; great weights may be suspended at a
very considerable elevation, and they may be raised and lowered
at pleasure, till hold is taken by the grapnel. Kites of the ordi-
nary structure can only fly in the direct course of the wind; these
may be veered, and dropped to the right or left of the wind's course,
at a very considerable angle; and thus, should not the anchor hold
in one spot, it may be raised and let down in another, till a
proper hold is obtained. Should it, however, be deemed more
expedient at once to send a person on shore with a rope, he
may be borne above the bursting billows, and alight safely
upon the cliff or beach, according to the relative situation of the
wreck. Again, it might so chance that even a rope would not
render all that aid which circumstances required; for should
female passengers and children be among the shipwrecked,
what mode could be so desirable as to swing them securely in a
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
17
hammock, and thus transport them with rapidity and ease over
the spray
of the wildest sea? In the same way, every one of
the crew might be landed. Should shipwreck occur at a very
considerable distance from land, a patent kite would safely tow
several men ashore. Again, in cases where ships founder at sea,
this invention would prove of varied and important service.
These Buoyant Sails would bear up and draw a small craft,
preventing it from rolling, or turning over; serving at once for
a sail and signal of distress-a signal so elevated and con-
spicuous as to attract very distant observation. Again, with
the cord of a kite fastened beneath the arms, an individual
would not only be supported for hours, but be wafted within
reach of help, or safely reach the shore. This invention would
also be of the greatest service for ASCENSION AT SEA. By the
Buoyant Sails, a seaman might ascend to a vast height, and,
with powerful perspective, sweep the horizon for an immense
distance. Hostile fleets might be descried, or the shore dis-
cerned, long before an observer from the tallest mast-head could
gain the same advantage. The experienced mariner may
suggest their application to purposes of great importance,
totally unknown to the mere landsman.
In reading the various melancholy accounts of shipwrecks,
scarcely one is to be met with in which the application of this
system would not have been serviceable, and, in many in-
stances, would undoubtedly have been instrumental, in saving
whole crews. How many have perished in open boats and
rafts-how many on rocks, barren sands, and uninhabited islands
—for want of some elevated signal of distress! These Buoyant
B
18
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
Sails, with the requisite apparatus, should always be kept on
shore near rocky coasts; for though the wind generally blows
towards the land when accidents take place, yet, in cases of an
oblique direction, these Kites might frequently be veered, so as
to render assistance. The innumerable uses to which they may
be applied at sea, rendering multifarious assistance to the
marine department, no one can as yet point out. Sufficient,
however, has been suggested to set thinking the ingenious
mariner. The more he dwells upon the management of the
Buoyant Sails, the more discoveries will he make for their
regular and their casual application. Let him not forget that
they are portable-that they occupy small space-that they are
instantly equipped to ascend-that their power can be in-
creased, or lessened in a moment-that, while floating in the
air, they can be veered either starboard or larboard, with a des-
patch, of which, without trial, he can have no conception-that
he can elevate or lower them at pleasure—and, above all, let
him understand that they will bear him safely aloft. Let him
be acquainted with these facts, and he will discover the facilities
by which he may land himself, or others, on the summit of the
highest rock; raise or lower himself; glide over the surface of
the billows; afford to others hope where none was before; and
rescue when death rode victorious on the whirlwind. Thus,
with a clear conception of the principle, he must be convinced
that this union of buoyancy and traction will prove no small
acquisition to the sea service.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
19
SIGNAL S.
FOR the signal service, they are of immense importance. At
what a vast distance a black flag might be seen, as a signal of
distress-not only on the open sea, but ashore-is evident. To
the inland inhabitants it would convey not only the intimation.
of distress, but guide them to the very spot where their huma-
nity would be welcome. Signals of every kind, for every
purpose, might, by this mode, be made with greater distinct-
ness than by any other; an advantage ensured by their com-
plete detachment from the vessel, and their commanding eleva-
tion. The largest flags could be displayed at an immense
height, and the Admiral's signals be made in the smoke and
confusion of an engagement. Night signals of the most efficient
nature, and of the greatest variety, can be hoisted to the clouds.
Model forms, twelve feet in circumference, have been invented,
which, if required, fold up in one moment, occupying only four
inches in diameter, and weighing but six pounds. This princi-
ple established, its application is as extensive as the Admiralty
or Marine Society could desire, by whom a general regulating
code might be published for the inhabitants of the sea-board.
MILITARY USES.
THESE Buoyant Sails, possessing immense power, will, as we
have before remarked, serve for floating observatories. They
20
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
will also prove most formidable in cases of escalade. With an
efficient flight of these powerful engines, a whole battalion may
be placed in silence on the most lofty rock or mountain fortress.
In the dead stillness of the night, shrouded by its gloom, a lodg-
ment may be effected on the most impregnable battlements.
In other cases, guns may be mastered for such a time as would
enable a supporting corps to advance to the support of the
storming party, or a single spy might, by the mysterious agency
of these Kites, gain valuable information of the interior state of
fortresses. Elevated in the air, a single sentinel, with a pro-
spective, could watch and report the advance of the most power-
ful forces while yet at a great distance; he could mark their
line of march, the composition of their force, and their general
strength, long before he could be seen by the enemy. Hedges,
forests, houses, and the minor irregularities of the earth's sur-
face, would offer not the slightest obstruction to his view.
Either in pursuit or advance, from the flying observatory, could
he mark all the movements and manœuvres of an enemy. Even
though destitute of boats, a corps d'élete might be transported
across a river in safety, and with a rapidity with which no steamer
could compete. Almost every invention is susceptible of im-
provement, affording scope for ingenious experiment. To none
does this apply with greater force than to this branch of ærial
navigation. What an endless variety of experiments might be
made by military officers, especially the young and active in
that honourable profession, and by such training how skilful
would they become in the numerous manœuvres of which the
system is susceptible. Again, how instructive would be the
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
21
trial of various methods of ascertaining the very swiftest rate of
travelling, how satisfactory to ascertain the exact spread of can-
vas required for draught or traction—to calculate the additional
power required for travelling on bad roads or up hills, for com-
petition in running with or against the wind at various angles of
traverse by several equipages in simultaneous motion—to decide,
by experiments, under what circumstances Kites of a heavy or
slender construction would be most eligible for making progress
-to discover the best mode of manoeuvring, in order to over-
come difficulties, such as the passing of lofty trees, high towers,
or pinnacles, the adoption of the best plans for the effectual
prevention of accidents when ascending in the air or alighting
on the earth—to determine exactly how far larboard or star-
board these Buoyant Sails might be veered, with a given length
of cordage, and a pressure of different weights. These, and a
multiplicity of experiments, would afford military men an endless
source of exercise, qualifying them for the performance of ex-
ploits, of which, at present, they have no conception.
But the most extensive sphere of action, presents itself on the
surface of the majestic ocean. There, how frequently when
lying at anchor or when under easy sail, endless advances might
be made in the application of this æropleustic discovery. These
we leave to the practical hand of the experienced mariner. We
may, however, suggest, that were a Charvolant and suite of
Kites introduced into military and naval establishments, nothing
would afford such a zest in recreation, nothing lead to such healthy
and hardy exploits as the manœuvres of traction, draught, and
transposition, under this system. Wherever introduced, manli-
22
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
,, 1
ness would succeed effeminacy, and courage triumph over fear ;
for who will not agree with Fuller, that "amusements like these
are excellent exercises, and that manly sports are the grammar
of military performance?" The national establishments of
Chelsea and Greenwich are excellent theatres for experiment
among the sons of those seamen who have rendered "the
spangle of the wave" honoured, and the children of those
soldiers who have made the banners of their country redoubta-
ble. But not only for the aspirants for military or naval fame
is this system available; for the day may not be far distant
when, this system having been proved perfectly safe and delight-
ful, ladies themselves, "winged like those from Heaven," shall
be seen making the transit of our rivers, leaving boats and
bridges to the less ambitious inhabitants of the earth, and thus
enable us to boast that we have our fair and flying islanders.
66
TRAVELLING.
Posting upon the couriers of the air."
ONE of the most pleasurable purposes to which Kites may be
applied, is that of travelling; and, it may be added, perhaps ere
long the most useful of all, when applied practically to some
foreign countries. But, before this subject is noticed, it may be
proper to give a description of the Charvolant, which, con-
structed expressly for these Buoyant Sails, has the following
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
23
peculiarities:-First. Before the charioteer is an upright spin-
dle, surmounted by a T handle; the lower part of this handle,
which runs through the bed of the car, is square, fitting into the
socket of a small, solid, horizontal wheel, round which a strap
passing communicates with another horizontal wheel, fastened
to the pivot of the front axletree. By this apparatus, termed
the "Guide," the chariot is directed with the nicest precision.
Second. There is a regulator or drag in the hinder part of the
car, suspended by a spring. The shoe of this drag is pressed
by a lever power upon the ground, by which too great a
velocity is prevented, or the vehicle instantly stopped, if re-
quisite; this is effected without alighting. There are several
minor appendages not common to other carriages, as a reel, and
places for the chronometer, mariner's compass, &c. This car,
having moveable shafts, may be used with horses, precisely the
same as other carriages.
THE CHARVOLANT IN TRAVERSE.
MANY who give credit to the practicability of this system
cannot conceive how a car drawn by these Buoyant Sails can
travel, except the wind be exactly in the direction of the road;
nor can they fancy the possibility of making any progress with
a side-wind, nor the power of beating up against it.
How to run in these various courses shall now be shown.
Every one knows that the wheels of a car will revolve when an
adequate draught-power is applied directly in a line with it, as
24
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
in the case of a horse drawing in the shafts. If taken, however,
from the shafts, and attached to the side of the vehicle, with the
draught at right angles, it could not be moved. But no sooner
is the horse turned a trifle from that angle, with an inclination
to the line of road, than the carriage moves; not after the
horse indeed, but in the exact direction of the front wheels.
All, therefore, to be done is to guide the front wheels, when of
course the carriage progresses, though the draught-power forms
an acute angle with the line in which progress is making. But
what is to be done in the case of a right ngled wind? That
subtle power is not subject to any human training, nor can it be
inclined a hair's-breadth from its appointed course but the
Kite may, by means of the starboard and larboard traces. By
these, an obliquity may be given to the Kite's surface, right or
left; and thus the angle of incidence is formed, on which the
wind acting produces the traverse. By this method, therefore,
the power is placed to draw at an angle favourable to the
desired course. Thus, whatever road the car may travel by a
side-wind, the same road it may return by the same wind; and
where there is space for traverse, as on plains or downs, it is
possible to beat up against the wind.
But, knowing how frequently verbal descriptions fail of giving
clear ideas, especially of unusual inventions, we have given a
profile drawing of the Charvolant, with a delineation of the
various tracts of traverse, and the paces of travelling. This
car, though now possessing no complications of machinery, was
not brought to its present state of simplicity without some little
contrivance to avoid them. Its peculiar structure originated

A.Tousch Lith Bristol
UNIV
OF
CH
A
On Stone by K.Gubert.
TRAVELLING IN DIFFERENT DIRECTIONS BY THE SAME WIND.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
25
more in the nature of the accommodations required for its ma-
nagement and movements than from the general principles of
chariot building. Coach-builders and connoisseurs may con-
demn the distance between the front and hinder axles, on the
supposed principle of heavy draught; but let it be observed that
there are no horses to distress, for the winged Pegasi harnessed
to this machine are not inconvenienced either by weight, hills,
or speed; and after all the objections which have been made to
the horse's distance from his draught, these ærial steeds never
flag, while their wind holds good though the traces which con-
nect them with their work are three hundred yards long. The
reasons for the unusual length of the Charvolant are, that it is
far less liable to overturn in backing, wheeling, or travelling
swiftly; for experiment has proved that a short carriage,
moving at the rate of twenty miles an hour, cannot be kept
from an oscillation exceedingly unpleasant and dangerous. These
objections are obviated by a greater length of carriage.
We shall now briefly remark on the speed and force of the
winds :-
A gentle breeze
A pleasant gale
An active gale
A brisk gale.
A high wind....
A storm
A tempest
A hurricane.
DRAUGHT-POWER.
Crot.
PACE.
Miles per hour.
4 to
7
4
8 to 15
6
14 to 18
7/31/2
18 to 24
9$/
40 to 50
12
60 to 70
80 to 90
100 to 120
No experiments have
yet been made for
travelling, with a
wind exceeding 40
miles an hour.*
* The draught-power is calculated from experiments made with a four-wheeled
car, weighing two cwts. and drawn by two Kites, spreading a surface of one
hundred square feet. It may be satisfactory to know that it is possible to travel
up-hill as rapidly as on level ground.
26
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
The winds, which move from eighty to one hundred miles an
hour, dismantle towers and tear up trees, strew the agitated
ocean with wrecks and the sands of the shore with spoils. It is
then that the stormy petrel skims over the boiling deep, and the
white coursers of the sea chafe themselves into pale foam.
FOREIGN COUNTRIES.
As an introduction to that portion of the subject now to be
treated of, it may not be improper to mention the terms under
which the winds in different parts of the world are classified.
Erratic or variable winds are those the coming and continuance
of which cannot be depended on. Such are usual in England
and other countries of a similar latitude. In the regions of the
globe within and near the tropics, there are winds of three
particular classes, designated, Constant, Periodical, and Alter-
nating.
Constant winds are those which always move in the same
direction: such are the trade winds.
Periodical winds blow during part of the year from one point,
and at another directly the opposite way: such are the mon-
soons, which course to and fro on the Indian Ocean, and over
considerable tracts of land in Asia and Africa.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
27
Alternating winds are those which blow in the morning one
way, and return again in the evening. As these are generally
found near the coasts, they are termed sea and land breezes.
In those latitudes where any of these three last-mentioned
prevail, and in every place where winds may be calculated upon,
there a uniform dependence may be placed on the Kites, and there
they cannot fail to be extensively useful.
What incalculable service may this Eropleustic art render
to those who traverse the sandy deserts of Arabia, Africa, and
parts of South America! Some of these trackless territories
stretch on a level for thirteen hundred or two thousand miles,
and in all these places the heat is excessively oppressive, and
animal labour distressing. Parched and overcome by the torrid
blaze of the climate, and heavily laden with many a tedious day's
provision, how slow is the progress of the caravan over those
barren and burning sands!
Who knows, then, but by the aid of this system these deserts
may be navigated with a celerity never before known? Nor
tree, nor bush, nor envious rock oppose obstacles to our progress,
and many, many miles together our winged steeds may uninter-
ruptedly cleave their way.
"Tum cursibus auras,
Provocet, ac per asserta volans, seu liber habenis
Ægnora vis summa vestigia ponat arena.”
There are also periodical winds, the approach and continuance
28
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
of which may be calculated to a day, whose courses are established
by the undeviating laws of nature. What enthusiastic rapture
would it afford to the first intrepid adventurer who should cross.
Zaara, or the Great Desert, from Egypt to the Atlantic; and, if
travellers be correct, there is certainly some room for hope that
much may be effected by means of Kites in these dreary regions.
Some celebrated geographers observe that across this iminense
Desert, from the shores of the Atlantic to the confines of Egypt,
a space of two thousand five hundred miles, comprehending
a breadth of seven hundred and twenty, there are few interrup-
tions. There is but one simple thing to be ascertained, Is the
surface of this world of waste such as best to admit of wheel
carriages or sledges: carriages and sledges not drawn by horses
but by Buoyant Sails-sails which lift as much as they draw?
At certain seasons of the year, wind is sure to be granted, and
adequate power may most certainly be obtained for the purposes
of draught. Nothing can prove a serious impediment to success-
ful expeditions, but forests, and very frequent rocks and loose
stones. It is conjectured that no kind of sand, however light,
would prevent travelling by vehicles drawn by Kites. For
want of inland seas or navigable rivers, and public roads from
the shores to the centre, almost the whole of Africa remains
destitute of civilization, and neither seeks nor invites commercial
intercourse. Is it too fond a hope that, by the system of æro-
pleustics, those sands may be navigated as the sea, and thus a
most speedy and safe communication be opened between the
east and the west of the interior? Concluding that by wheels
or sledges made for the express purpose, those deserts may be
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
29
traversed; an idea is here given of what modes might be at-
tempted, and, it is propable, be effected. Let a carriage be
made that would accommodate six persons, with patent axle-
trees, the body of it boat fashion; in case of rivers and lakes an
awning might be added, as well as proper conveniences for
sleeping. In such a vehicle as this may the traveller take to
himself the words of the poet, and say:-
“O'er the desert as rapid as fast-bounding roe,
In my bark of the breezes all cheerly I go;
Not more sudden the rush of the avalanche drift,
Not arrow more fleet, not the wild horse more swift.
So forward, my steeds, wing your way through the wind,
Ye will leave the wild Arab defeated behind."
THE MANAGEMENT OF THE CAR.
CONCLUDING this boat-car made, its management is of easy
and pleasant accomplishment. Three persons are sufficient to
direct it in rapid motion; consequently, with six on board, a re-
freshed relay of hands would be always ready, and sleep be
alternately enjoyed. Should there be no material obstacles, the
periodical winds, which are very active, would take the car from
sixteen to twenty miles an hour; but as hindrances might be
expected, supposing it travelled only ten miles an hour, the
journey of 2,500 across the whole desert would then occupy ten
30
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
days and ten hours! Car Kites and equipage, complete for six
persons, would cost about £80. With what trifling expense a
formidable little troop might be equipped and travel in company!
ELECTRICITY.
SOME apprehensions have been entertained relative to exposure
from electric fluid, it being said that cordage has sometimes
proved a conductor, especially when saturated with water; how-
ever, the writer has attempted to prove it to be so, but has failed.
When raining, and when the Pilot Kite has been enveloped in
black electric cloud, and the cordage has been so fastened
below as to afford the fairest opportunity for the discovery, no
effect whatever has resulted. Wire running up the string, or
steel filings worked in with the string when manufactured is a
certain conductor; and in the latter case a line of fire will be
seen from the uppermost point of the Kite running down to the
earth: but should there exist any fear on this subject, a short
piece of silk-twist would cut off all communication. A gentle-
man of Manchester, proprietor of an extensive silk-twist manu-
factory, having once rode in the Charvolant, kindly presented
the inventor with a complete set of silk cordage of several
hundred yards in length, a non-conductor that would most as-
suredly prevent all accidents from the electric fluid.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
31
REGAL PRIVILEGES CONNECTED WITH ÆROPLEUSTICS.
THERE is a peculiar satisfaction in not being detained at the
toll-bars. The pains and the penalties which there arrest com-
mon travellers, never intercept this celestial equipage. The
Charvolant, then, has the distinguished prerogative of confer-
ring this royal privilege; and those who travel by Kites travel
as kings. They and their retinue pass the turnpikes free as the
descendants of majesty. A most delightful sensation is produced
by this proud exemption. The herald-bugle is sounded-the
gates fly open-you pass unquestioned-and on looking back,
and seeing even the thorough-bred obliged to pull up, to pur-
chase a passage and to procure a passport, it is then, "pride
playing a busy tune on your heart-strings," you almost fancy
some of the royal blood to be galloping in your veins. Besides,
the Charvolant may claim one honour as yet sacred to Majesty.
Neither peer nor prince may travel with more than three pairs
of horses; but a whole troop of these ærial steeds may be har-
nessed to the flying car. Thus, then, a private gentleman may
travel legally and regally through the whole kingdom. How-
ever, on one occasion, an old, inquisitive, lady-like turnkey
refused to open the gate to a party with the Charvolant. Hear-
ing a carriage rattle up to the bar, she ran hastily out; but, on
seeing no animals attached to the vehicle, she started and stared,
and after a short pause exclaimed :—“Why, gentlemen, what
d'ye go by? what is it that draws you?" The kites were pointed
out to her, aloft in the air; and then, and for the first time, she
32
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
noticed the lines fastened to the car. "What!" she added,
"do they draw you along?-do they indeed! Well, what must
I charge you, gentlemen? What d'ye call them?" "Kites-
kites!" "They ben't horses?" "Oh no!"-"Nor mules ?"
"No!"" And I'm sure they ben't donkeys, nor oxen!" Then,
looking up at her toll-board, she observed:-" Kites-kites?
why, there be nothing about kites on my board; so I suppose
you must go along about your business!"
Oh, how pleased would old ELWES have been, if Kites and
the Charvolant had been in existence in his day! Such an
antipathy did he bear to those hated rails, thwarting the King's
highway, that, rather than subject himself to the charge for
passing, he has been known to leap many a hedge and ditch,
and that many a time, for the satisfaction of keeping the penny
in his pocket.
These ærial coursers need neither hay nor corn for their
sustenance: they, like the camelion, feed upon the air: they do
not even require water for their refreshment, and have been
known to race sixty miles, on the afternoon of a hot and dusty
summer's day, without once moistening their mouths, or dashing
from their nostrils, like the steeds of mere earth, the foam-bells
of "heat and extreme toil."
It is urged that the invention cannot be employed without wind;
and, as that element is not under human command, therefore,
neither business nor pleasure can depend upon its services. This
certainly is an insurmountable impediment, as regards the adop-
tion of it to the exclusion of other draught or propelling powers.
Would the winds come when called for, and could we curb and

A.Peruch Jith Eristet
TOLLS
137
UNIV
OF
MICH
On Stone by Baber!
KITES! KITES! "WHY THEY BE'ANT UPON MY BOARD"
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
33
direct them at pleasure, then we might do with few horses and
very little steam. But these gifts of Providence will never be
superseded by Buoyant Sails; they will, however, occasionally
perform things which neither horses nor steam have ever done,
or can do.
As it respects the first objection, it may thus be replied to:-
Does it follow, that a thing which cannot always be used should
never be used? Surely that would be an absurd conclusion.
If we cannot do a thing just when we would, not to do it when
we could might be unwise. Ships might be objected to on this
principle-that there were sometimes calms, or contrary winds:
every argument, therefore, against the use of the Kites and
Charvolant will hold good when applied to the use of sailing
vessels. That they cannot be employed at all times, just at a
person's will and pleasure, is certainly a trifling objection as it
respects their application for recreative excursions; for surely
there will be a sufficient number of windy days in the course of
the year for the purposes of amusement. The exercise of
patience is occasionally very wholesome; and to withhold indul-
gences for a season frequently serves to give a greater zest to
enjoyment.
REMARKS ON TRAVELLING BY THE CHARVOLANT.
THE Author does not commit himself by asserting that this
mode of travelling is the most pleasurable and safe ever yet
discovered, and, with the exception of the steam-engine, the
C
34
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
most expeditious. Mile after mile, in succession, has been per-
formed at the rate of twenty miles an hour, timing it by chrono-
meter in hand. A mile has frequently been performed, over a
heavy road, in two minutes and three-quarters. Let it be
noticed, that the wind was not furious, neither were the Kites
additionally powerful for the bad state of the roads. This speed
was also effected with wheels not exceeding thirty inches in
diameter: it remains, therefore, for science to calculate, and for
experiment to determine, what may be done with wheels of
larger dimensions, in a brisker gale, and on better roads.
It may be supposed, by some, that this celerity is dangerous
-that it would prevent respiration; but let it be remembered,
however, that there is no plunging, no sudden jerks-that the
occasional dips and irregularities in the surface of the road are
scarcely perceptible. There is no jolting, for the weight is
partly supported by the Kites, and the car thus glides over the
small hollows into which other carriages sink.
That the swiftness of the movement should almost prevent
breathing, is certain, if going against the wind; but when tra-
velling at such a rate, it is with the wind, and thus a perfect
calm is enjoyed. One evil, however, it was supposed did arise
from its velocity-loss of appetite; for on one occasion, when
pulling up at a house of call seventeen miles from Bristol, some
little concern was felt by the party when not one of them was
disposed to take any refreshment. All, therefore, concluded
that the speed with which they had flown over the ground was
the cause of this stomachic indifference. However, upon further
consideration, it was imputed to another source; for, on looking
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
35
at the chronometer, they discovered that their travelling pace,
up hill and down, had been sixteen miles within the hour: of
course there could be little disposition to hunger so soon after
a plentiful repast at home. People must not, therefore, think
themselves dying, if, on arriving at London, after a morning's
ride of 120 miles, they do not even feel themselves quite ready
for dinner; for then, perhaps, it may be only about the time for
lunch.
This mode of travelling is, of all others, the most pleasant.
Privileged with harnessing the invincible winds, our celestial
tandem playfully transpierces the clouds, and our mystic-moving
car swiftly glides along the surface of the scarce-indented earth;
while beholders, snatching a glance at the rapid but noiseless
expedition, are led to regard the novel scene rather as a vision
than a reality.
In the evening, when only part of the equipage is visible, and
that but for a few moments, the effect is truly sublime. Its
unexpected appearance and sudden departure-passing like a
shadow-has often rivetted the foot-passenger to the spot,
motionless and mute, and taught him to exclaim :-
"What are these,
That look not like th' inhabitants of the air,
And yet are in 't ?”
It has happened, too, that after such flights new and strange
tales have been told of the Fiend having been abroad: that the
Prince of the Power of the Air had certainly been let loose,
and was now driving nightly up and down on the earth.
36
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
There are certain evenings in which travelling by the Char-
volant could not be better described, had DRYDEN known of
the invention, and seen it in action, when he said:-
"In a bright moonshine, when the winds whistle loud,
Tivy, Tivy, Tivy, we mount and we fly!"
But of all others, those evenings are the most delightful when
not a breath is felt below; when all is calm and silent; when
nothing of the wind is heard, but its soft play on the Kite's
cordage, from the tension of which the sound resembles the
changeful note of the Æolian harp. Those nights when LUNA
walks in beauty and brightness through cloudless skies, are
certainly to be preferred; but the novelty and astounding effect
produced are much greater on a dark night: it is necessary, then,
to travel with lamps to the car, and at least one transparency
suspended aloft on the string of the Kite; which light is to
inform the charioteer of the exact direction and angular height
of the Kite's string, that he may avoid trees, &c. This leading-
star, though serviceable to the director of the expedition, has
often caused impediments. The eyes of all on the road have
been generally fixed; and waggoners, people with carts, foot-
passengers, &c., have been standing directly in the way, and
gaping upwards. In general, their backs are towards the
Charvolant; for, as the light in the air is always a-head of the
carriage, they have turned to look at it, just before the car
approached them. This circumstance, together with the swift
and silent movement of the carriage, makes the bugle a sine quâ
non.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
37
That no inconsiderable degree of scepticism has existed on
this branch of the Eropleustic art, the following anecdote will
evince :-
A gentleman, speaking of the carriage drawn by kites, found
the commencement of his narrative excited momentary atten-
tion; but the company, as by mutual consent, very soon ne-
glected him. He then, rather warmed, asked the question,
if they did not believe him? This produced a titter and a
whispering, indicative of contempt. However, being deter-
mined that they should be convinced, he assured them that he
himself had ridden in the car at the rate of sixteen miles an hour.
This completed the wonderful story; all burst into a laugh, and
a particular friend of the narrator observed, "Well, my dear
sir, I never knew you tell fibs, and therefore must credit
your assertion; but if I had seen the thing myself, I would not
have believed my own eyes."
SPORTING.
As an accompaniment to the gun, in grouse and partridge
shooting, the Patent Kite has been found to answer admirably.
When the birds are very wild, the Kite, being elevated and
carried by an attendant, is an unfailing mode of keeping them
down until put up by the sportsman, who is generally allowed
to advance within shot before they take wing. Many gentle-
38
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
men have assured the inventor that, on many occasions, without
the aid of the Kite, they could not have succeeded in obtaining
a shot during a day's walking.
The plan is, to let the Kite fly over the field which you intend
to beat, and in no instance has the adoption of this means failed
in securing a good day's sport, should the birds be ever so wild.
SUMMER EXCURSIONS.
MANY most pleasurable expeditions have been made with the
Kites. The following, descriptive of some of the most interest-
ing, will no doubt prove interesting:-
The party, in the present instance, consisted of twelve
individuals, with three equipages complete, each with a tan-
dem of kites; in one, the pilot sail was 8 feet in height,
the draught sail 10 feet, this car was manned by two per-
sons only; a second car, of larger size, drawn by a pilot
kite 10 feet high and a draught power of 15 feet, carried a
party of four; the third Charvolant, of considerable size and
weight, was manoeuvred by a full complement of six-the
respective power of traction, a pilot sail of 12 feet and a draught
power of 20 feet. The object was to test the relative speed of
those different equipages, and to mark the advantages or disad-
vantages of weight and compactness—of light and slightly con-
structed equipments. And certainly, in the whole annals of
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
39
racing, never did such buoyancy of spirit and mental exhilara-
tion accompany a competing party. The vivacity of mind and
eye-the vigorous keenness of the animated contest—the graceful
soaring of the Buoyant Sails of each equipage-the manoeuvring
to effect the passage in advance each of the other, formed a pic-
ture not easily forgotten by any of that cheerful party.
The line of route was the great western road to London,
running over the high grounds of Marshfield Downs, through
Chippenham, Calne, and Marlborough Downs. At the foot of
Fig Hill, a steep ascent of about one mile, and distant seven
from Bristol, the keen and well-contested struggle began. A
journey of 113 miles lay before the party, to be accomplished
with no other draught power than the wind, which was now
blowing a fine gale of at least five-and-thirty miles an hour.
The signal was given: each company dashed gaily forward-
some to unfurl their Buoyant Sails, others to run out the lines
attached to their respective cars. The standard-ballast for each
kite was rapidly sent in advance, the canvas raised to the wind,
the brace-lines and mainstay instantly prepared, and at the
signal of the bugle a general rush to each equipage took place.
A fair start, and now we are under weigh. Right in our front
lies the steep ascent which has baffled the muscle and wind of
many a good steed; ours heed it not. The brace-line is hauled
tight, and each draught sail brought to give its utmost power,
and the struggle increases in animation. The air is filled with
mimic life, for six mighty birds-the soaring kites-are despe-
rately struggling to escape from the leash; but the effort is
vain, and our advance is rapid. The first Charvolant that
reached the brow of the hill was the heaviest, manned, as we
40
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
have before said, by a party of six. The two lighter cars,
Pegasus and Chimoa, lay abreast about thirty yards in the rear;
when now after gaining the summit, as we began to descend a
slight incline, both these began to press the advance, and after
running about half a mile farther, shot ahead with tremendous
velocity. This advantage they kept until the party began to
ascend a considerable rise leading out of the village of Ford,
about eight miles from the starting point. Here again the flag
of the heavier craft floated proudly over its baffled competitors,
who dropped considerably in the rear. We now cast a rapid
glance at the chronometer, and found our pace had been, up
hill and down, at the rate of twenty-five miles an hour. Chip-
penham now lay not far before us, which we were anxious to
reach in advance of our competitors, because it involved an im-
portant advantage, which our opponents would not have failed
to seize, thereby throwing us possibly in the rear by a quarter of
an hour.
The town of Chippenham lies nearly at right angles with the
general line of the great London road; a tall spire stands most
awkwardly on the left hand, at such an elevation as to require
some patience, and the nicest skill in manœuvring, to clear the
vane. It was evident, therefore, that whichever party should
succeed in reaching this point first would have gained a consi-
derable start. It was our good fortune to lead into Chippenham,
and we had no reason to regret our success, for it again gave us
the advantage in Calne, a town six miles in advance. Here the
main streets are still more unfavourable, being not only at right
angles with the general direction of the London road, but very

A.Pocock Lith Brista
UNIV
OF
CH
IC
Stone by R. Culbert
玉
​時
​THERE THE STEERAN DASHED SLY JET UPON THE TURF.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
41
narrow in the most critical part. Our brace-lines, how ever,
were in most efficient action, and, by effecting a powerful tra-
verse of the kites to the starboard, and by keeping them steadily
on that tack, we cleared every obstacle, and soon found our-
selves on the edge of the high Chevil Downs, near Marlborough,
Here we paused for a few moments, to see what had become of
our competitors in the race. We looked back, and could dis-
tinctly perceive their flags advancing rapidly, though still
evidently at the distance of two or three miles; with this warn-
ing, however, not a moment was to be lost, if we were still to
head them into Marlborough. The bugle once more sounded,
and the equipage again advanced at a rapid rate.
About four miles from the edge of the Chevil Downs, we
encountered a most unwelcome obstacle in a post-chaise and
pair, which, though prime cattle, were a mere lumber in the
road, compared with the tremendous pace we were then going
-certainly not less than five-and-twenty miles an hour. The
post-boy, however, determined to jockey us; he now traversed
to the right, now the left, of the road, just as he perceived we
were about to pass him. We were thus effectually blockaded,
at a time too when, to our great vexation, we perceived the
party in the rear gaining on us so rapidly as to threaten coming
up with us in a very few minutes. The occupant of the chaise
seemed to enjoy our dilemma, and evidently prompted the pos-
tilion in his clever manœuvres. At length, watching an oppor-
tunity, no sooner did a spot present itself where the downs
sloped smoothly into the road, than the steersman dashed boldly
out upon the turf, and, accompanied by the sound of the bugle,
42
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
in one second our carriage shot ahead, and left our disappointed
jockey in the rear. It may be mentioned here, that since the
withdrawal of the public conveyances from the turnpike roads,
a greater facility is afforded for the delightful recreation attend-
ing excursions in the Charvolant, for miles may now be passed
on many of our high roads without meeting a vehicle of any
description, consequently scarcely any interruption occurs in this
respect-indeed, in many places the grass is growing very luxu-
riantly, and the animals which formerly sweated and foamed
whilst traversing these now old-fashioned courses might obtain
a plentiful repast on that very ground which they were con-
tinually tearing up in their passage through the country.
Notwithstanding, we succeeded in shearing off from this
troublesome manoeuvrer, we had lost valuable time, which,
with the brisk equipage in chase, was not to be recovered.
In addition, the road again began to incline considerably,
a disadvantage which our carriage was not long in finding out.
Accordingly, just as we were about to enter Marlborough,
our indefatigable chase again came up with us. The whole
party now pulled up, and it was agreed, after the very splendid
run of the morning, to postpone our further progress till the
evening, when we were again to get under weigh. Meanwhile,
we spent a very cheerful afternoon with a friend in the town,
and, after waiting till the evening breeze, the whole party again
set forward; this time, however, without any rivalry, and keep-
ing each other company. As it was now getting dark, the night
signals were considered necessary; they were speedily adjusted,
and we were once more in motion. Nothing could exceed the
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
43
stillness of nature; not a breath moved amongst the leaves, and
an unusual calm reigned around. Notwithstanding this preter-
natural quiet, a steady and active breeze was flowing aloft.
The kites kept a position so uniform, as to convey the idea of
being nailed in their respective places, while, from the even ten-
sion of the cordage, sounds resembling the plaintive breathings
of the æolian harp proceeded. The pace of the equipage was
now about 18 miles an hour, and our rapid movements demanded
a vigilant look out. The bugle was in frequent requisition, and
of essential service. During this night journey, soon after the
stars began to shine out, an appearance frequently presented
itself, calculated to attract the attention of the scientific.
Meteors continued to pass in an uniform direction across the
atmosphere, traversing the cordage from right to left; very pos-
sibly the current of electric fluid was disturbed by the rapid
passage of so slender a body as the cordage. After a delightful
run, we determined to close our day's adventures by bivouacing
out till the dawn, in lieu of running into London. We, accord-
ingly, furled our Buoyant Sails, reeled the cordage, and re-
paired to a stack of fragrant clover-hay, still in process of
making. There, with our kites once more spread for an awning,
and their oval ballast tails for a nightcap, we slept peacefully
till awaked by the gay carol of the early lark.
One of the most pleasurable excursions made by the Char-
volant was in the summer of 1846, when the author's family,
numbering 16 persons, proposed to visit London. Three car-
riages, with their ærial steeds, were prepared for the purpose,
under the guidance of a skilful charioteer, the equipages having
¡
44
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
been preceded by a light waggon, containing a tent and provi-
sions for three days, it having been arranged that the party
should halt and partake of refreshment al fresco.
At five o'clock on a most beautiful morning the party started
on their trip, passing through the old city of Bristol, to the
amusement of those whose early habits had brought them
from their homes. In a very short time, the kites were
brought into full action, and after a delightful run of about
sixteen miles we arrived at the pretty village of Ford, where
it was agreed we should breakfast-for although our steeds were
as fresh as when we first started, and needed neither hay nor
water, much less a feed of oats, we felt the influence of the
morning air, and the excitement which always attends this de-
lightful mode of travelling, for our appetites were such that we
doubt if any alderman of any city could have competed with us
on this occasion. The kites having been made fast, and the
carriages drawn up at a cottage by the road-side, we solicited
the services of the good woman of the house, who shortly put
the kettle on, that we might all have tea.
Ham and beef,
chicken and eggs, were in constant request, and the anticipa-
tion of a journey gave increased energy to our exertions for
satisfying the desires of the inner man. The repast being con-
cluded, and feeling exhilarated by its effects, we entered our
respective carriages with renewed spirits, and started away for
Marlborough Forest, in which neighbourhood we intended to
bivouac for the night. We arrived at the Forest about seven
o'clock in the evening, having loitered on the road in order to
visit some friends. The evening was most beautiful, and those
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
45
only who have formed a gypsey party of this kind can esti-
mate the pleasures attending it. Our sails were soon hauled
down, and served in some respect to form a screen in connec-
tion with our tent, which, when erected, afforded all the accom-
modation the travellers desired. The calm stillness of the sum-
mer evening—the delightful position we had chosen for our
encampment, produced the most pleasurable feelings.
After a short time, supper was prepared, and all did ample
justice to the meal, for it has always been found that no exer-
cise serves to promote the appetite so powerfully as a run with
the kites. During our repast, we were enlivened by the enter-
taining drollery of the jolly landlord of a neighbouring public-
house, who had brought us some of his excellent Wiltshire beer.
Being fond of music, and having a famous voice, he sang us
some capital old English songs, which resounded through the
Forest, and the key-bugle being beautifully played by one of the
party, we had a very tolerable amateur concert, and thus the
time passed away merrily, until, through the exertions of the
day, one and the other felt the influence of the drowsy god.
Two of the young men proposed to keep guard during the
night, providing themselves with a good old Havana, the re-
mainder of the party betook themselves to rest, and they declared
the next morning that they had never slept more comfortably,
or felt more refreshed.
Early on the following day we pursued our journey. The
kites were soon attached to their respective carriages, and,
bidding farewell to the jovial host of the Castle, we made a
famous start. We encountered some few difficulties on the
46
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
road, in the shape of high trees, steeples, and chimnies; but, by
tact and perseverance, we subdued them. In passing through
large towns, it may be imagined that our novel equipage attracts
considerable attention, and as some little delay attends our
movements on these occasions, the inhabitants have ample time
to make their remarks; but on every occasion the most marked
consideration has been bestowed on the travellers. It has fre-
quently happened that, on clearing the streets and dashing once
more into the open road, our carriages have been followed
by numerous horsemen, who had hastily saddled their steeds, in
order to see a little more of our proceedings; but if the wind is
brisk these followers are very soon left in the rear, a gallop with
the hounds being much less trying than chasing the Charvolant.
Our statements have appeared ridiculous to those gentlemen,
when manoeuvring amongst the chimney-pots; but when allowed
a clear start, the correctness of the prognostications were sub-
stantiated, much to the amazement of our equestrian friends.
Of course, those who were on foot took a hasty leave, only wit-
nessing the start, and keeping their eyes and mouths very wide
open during the operation. It has happened on several occa-
sions, in the course of our excursions, that we have pulled up at
a road-side public-house in the dusk of the evening, when the
kites were hidden from the view. Hearing the sound of wheels,
the hostler very naturally rushes out (probably from the lighted
tap-room) to attend to his duties, and approaches, as he sup-
poses, the head of our horse, but finds no trace of that moving
power; his bewilderment is most laughable, and he hardly re-
gards our order for some of the best Wiltshire beer. He
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
47
scratches his head, but does not appear at all satisfied with his
calculations as to our mode of travelling. After giving rather a
doubtful glance at the occupants of the carriage he proceeds for
the beer, and addresses the landlord with, " Measter, a quart of
beer vor zummut at the dooer." He appears again, and having
recovered his first surprise awaits with a credulous smile to see
how we are going to move off. The beer being paid for, the
drag is uplifted, the power-line of the draught-kite braced up,
and dash goes the carriage, leaving the poor man to form his
own opinion on the matter, which, we understood afterwards,
resulted in the exclamation, "That if he had never zeed the
devil afore, he zeed un thic night however."
These expeditions were succeeded by an interesting aquatic
excursion, in which an opportunity was presented for making
numerous experiments.
The Bristol Channel was the scene of
this novel and most instructive marine trial. A trim yacht
conveyed the whole party to the steep Holmes, on which,
after landing, and taking with us the necessary tackle, we
proceeded to raise the kites. Meanwhile, in order to assist
the traverse which we contemplated, a bridle was placed a little
before mid-ships, with a running block, so as to enable every
advantage to be taken in wearing. Canvas buckets, also, of a
peculiar construction, were prepared to throw overboard by the
stern, should the speed be too great for the back-water; or,
should it be considered desirable to bring the yacht up, a grap-
pling iron was specially prepared for this purpose.
A fine gale was blowing, and we were soon under weigh. It
was quickly found that the yacht answered her helm admirably
48
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
under these floating sails, and that her bows, raised as they
were above the ordinary pressure of the canvas, cut the water
with unusual keenness. It was not long before an opportunity
presented itself for testing the speed of the little craft under
her new trim. Not two miles ahead of us was sailing a beau-
tiful little cutter, skimming lightly over the water. In her case,
however, a proof was given that the ordinary spread of canvas
has no chance of competing with the Buoyant Sail, if the due
power of draught be applied. The breeze now began to freshen,
and our little bark gaily careered over the waves, continuing
rapidly to draw ahead. It was not long before we were along-
side; and the cutter, not willing to be overcome by this novel
mode of navigating the sea, spread additional canvas, and for a
time succeeded in keeping us company.
This advantage, how-
ever, she did not hold long, for our party soon succeeded in
throwing aloft another sail, which was attached to the cordage
of that already flying. This addition of strength soon told
effectually. Notwithstanding every exertion of the crew of the
cutter, they began to drop quickly astern, and after a run of
two hours more there was little to be seen of our late com-
petitor. Our cruise continued for three weeks, during which
we visited the coasts of Devonshire and Wales, thoroughly con-
vinced of the practicability and superior advantages of the
invention. One of the party suggested a novel application of
the kite-line-on which, at stated distances, were fixed small
reeving blocks, through which passed fishing-lines, one end of
which was carried down to the yacht. We had thus a quantity
of tackle at work at once, and our success was most unexampled.
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
49
It would be endless to enumerate all the experiments made,
and amusing adventures run through, during the course of our
Channel cruise. At one time careering gaily over the sparkling
waters; at another, ashore amongst the romantic scenery that
adorns the Welsh coast, or the rich and verdant glades of Devon.
During our brief experiments we twice encountered heavy gales,
which, however, had little effect on the trim of the yacht, for, in
wearing on either tack there was no depression of the boat's
edge, as in the case of the ordinary sail, and the stronger the
gale blew the more benefit did the boat feel, for her bows,
instead of being plunged more deeply in the water, were now
buoyantly supported by the additional power of the wind.
The party returned, fully convinced that there could not be
so efficient and safe a mode of navigating during heavy weather,
as by means of these Buoyant Sails. In the summer of this
year the same party traversed Salisbury Plain, a great part of
Gloucestershire, Berkshire, and Oxfordshire, and the variety of
amusing adventures which gave a zest to their journey would
form a most entertaining volume. On one occasion they were
most hospitably entertained by a gentleman, with whom they
had no previous acquaintance, who was so highly delighted with
the extreme simplicity and efficiency of the equipage, that he
begged the favour of a ride, that he might thus be able to de-
clare, from his own testimony, the truth of this much-doubted
mode of travelling. While at lunch, he informed us that he
had good cause to remember Kites, for when a boy he had
lost a noble property by unfortunately fitting up one of these
toys with a title-deed, of the value of which he had then not
D
50
THE BUOTANT SAIL.
the slightest idea; and that, in consequence, when a litigation on
the property in question arose, the deed was not forthcoming,
and the estate was lost to him. We could not help remarking,
however, that his hospitality was as great as his philosophy.
After our repast, our kind host joined the party, which at once
set forward again. On this trip a singular instance of the power
of the Buoyant Sail was given. At a sharp angle in the road
stood a tall elm-tree-we were then dashing along at the rate of
twenty miles an hour-and being rather careless in manoeuvring
our cordage, the line came in contact with a stiff knotted branch
of considerable size, at the top of the tree. The struggle
between the cordage and the tree was not of long duration; the
momentum given by the rapid pace of the carriage, and the line
of flight, still maintained by the Kite, was irresistible: the
branch shook violently for a moment, and then, with a loud
crash, broke from the tree and glided down the line to the
carriage-our trophy was, of course, soon deposited at the road-
side. This rencontre would have been injurious to the brace-
lines of the kite, to which latter one of them might possibly
have given a cant right or left, had not these important lines
been safely enclosed in a tube of webbing. Thus, all irregular
action upon the Kite's surface was prevented, and the strain
borne equally by the cordage and webbing. On another occa-
sion, a small party of three were not so fortunate. The carriage
in which they were riding was light, their tackle and kites
slender. While dashing along at a similar pace, they thought-
lessly encountered a stiff and crooked branch of a tall elm.
Their capture was complete. The lightness of the carriage and
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
51
the slight strength of the Kites, in this instance, gave them no
chance. In an instant the carriage wheeled round to the road-
side, dashed up the bank, dislodged the riders, and left the
carriage ridiculously suspended in the air, with the wheels still
revolving. To add to the amusement of the party, who were
not at all hurt, a donkey, just before quietly grazing by the
road-side, trotted up to them with a most compassionate bray,
as they were still lying upon the ground. The equipage, how-
ever, was soon disengaged, and again set in motion. We would
here remark, that there is not the slightest necessity for such
Quixotic adventures; a little more patience, and a little more
skill, would have avoided such a dilemma. It is indispensable
to have the cordage of the very best material and workmanship,
with a strength considerably more than adequate for general
travelling; because it has been found that the wind occasionally
is subject to a rapid rise during a single hour, in which, if there
be not extra strength in both tackle and cordage, these ærial
steeds would soon run away, leaving both carriage and riders
far behind. An instance of this sort occurred during the pro-
gress of the invention. When travelling by night with a strong
breeze, a heavy gale suddenly came on: just at this moment, it
was necessary to check the Charvolant, as there were several
carts directly in our front. The sudden pull-up, coming just as
the rush of the wind came, was too much for the strength of
ordinary tackle, and the lines in consequence parted. In an
instant the Kites, with the signal-lights still visible, drifted
through the air, but both soon disappeared, much to the disap-
pointment of the party. Accidents, however, such as these, are.
52
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
now impossible, from the superior manufacture of the cordage,
which will set even a hurricane at defiance. Determined, how-
ever, not to be balked of their ride, if possible, the whole party
now set off on an exploring expedition after their runaway team.
A search of two hours brought them no nearer to their object,
and they were obliged to return home (distant about two miles)
kiteless, though with an appetite much sharpened. On the fol-
lowing day they once more set forward upon their voyage of
discovery, and were fortunate enough to succeed in recovering
their flighty steeds. Meanwhile, a singular adventure had been
the consequence, giving rise to most laughable results. After
soaring through the air for upwards of a mile, the Kites finally
lodged upon the roof of a house, the ballast, tail, and cordage,
hanging down to the ground. About midnight, the people
within, were awakened by strange noises-which presently
became louder and louder. Alarm soon spread throughout the
family-robbers must be about the premises. Now the noise
increases the whole house is on the alert, and swords and guns
are brought into requisition. They patrol the circuit of the
building, and one of the party falls in with a line hanging down
from the parapet; by this way, then, the robbers have entered,
and their hammering is distinctly heard on the roof of the house.
Hither then, all courageously repair, and make a grand rush
upon the leads. Here the alarming mystery is disclosed, and
nothing but a harmless Kite is seen flapping its wings against
the roof. So much valour, perhaps, has never been so lavishly
expended. This was a lesson, however, which had its advantages,
producing superior strength in the whole tackle, and increased
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
53
skill in manœuvring, so that a similar casualty never afterwards
occurred. Every excursion now reduced the system to greater
perfection, bringing the Kites and carriage under the most
perfect control. Nor was less progress made in the experimental
department, when large weights were required to be raised or
transposed. While on this subject, we must not omit to observe,
that the first person who soared aloft in the air, by this inven-
tion, was a lady, whose courage would not be denied this test
of its strength. An arm chair was brought on the ground; then,
lowering the cordage of the Kite, by slackening the lower brace,
the chair was firmly lashed to the main line, and the lady took
her seat. The main-brace being hauled taut, the huge Buoyant
Sail rose aloft with its fair burden, continuing to ascend to the
height of one hundred yards. On descending, she expressed
herself much pleased at the easy motion of the Kite, and the de-
lightful prospect she had enjoyed. Soon after this, another
experiment of a similar nature took place, when the inventor's
son successfully carried out a design not less safe than bold-
that of scaling, by this powerful ærial machine, the brow of a
cliff, two hundred feet in perpendicular height. Here, after
safely landing, he again took his seat in a chair expressly pre-
pared for the purpose, and, detaching the swivel-line which kept
it at its elevation, glided gently down the cordage to the hand
of the director. The Buoyant Sail employed on this occasion
was thirty feet in height, with a proportionate spread of
canvas. The rise of this machine was most majestic, and
nothing could surpass the steadiness with which it was ma-
nœuvred, the certainty with which it answered the action of the
54
THE BUOYANT SAIL.
braces, and the ease with which its power was lessened or in-
creased. The cordage which took the strain of this powerful
engine consisted of two lines, each about half an inch in
diameter. The ends of these were securely fastened to a large
tree, to give increased steadiness to the machinery, as well as to
do away with the necessity of many men to withstand its
enormous power. Subsequently to this, an experiment of a
very bold and novel character was made upon an extensive
down, where a large waggon with a considerable load was
drawn along, whilst this huge machine at the same time carried
an observer aloft in the air, realising almost the romance of
flying. For night escalade, this powerful engine, as already
intimated, would be most effective; in fact, the various pur-
poses to which it is applicable will be best appreciated by those
whose energy and youth open to them an honourable career by
land or sea.
To relate the numerous adventures which at-
tended the various expeditions with the Charvolant might fill
a large volume: but as it was our object solely to point out the
application, tendencies, and capabilities of the invention, we
shall for the present postpone our narrative, fully convinced
that the powers already developed will be found of paramount
importance by land and sea.
THE END.
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