This enterprising firm has, however, not reached the point yet, and the flying apparatus lined up with the motor cars and cycles is merely there for the convenience of its inventor and builder, Mr W. A. Francis Potter, of Kelso.
Experts declare that it embodies an excellent idea, and its great lifting power and light sub-structure would seem to be greatly in its favour.
The Kelso monoplane, which cost 70, represents a year's work in overtime hours.
The inventor claims it to be the largest monoplane but four in the world.
He says the frame is built of oregon braced by piano wire and wire strainers of his design.
It is spring mounted on four strong motor wheels, castor fashion.
The planes of the machine are composed of built-up ribs covered with strong air-proof and waterproof material.
To give an idea of the amount of work in the construction of the planes, which are of the double surface type, there are 375 separate pieces of wood in each plane. the control of the machine is by the easiest method known - a single steering wheel mounted on a universal joint.
In operating the machine for steering the wheel is turned right or left according to the direction required.
The same wheel is lifted up or down for operating the elevator.
Another important feature is automatic stability, which is one of the difficulties in aviation.
The main dimensions of the machine are: - Surface in main planes, 226ft; span, 37ft; length, 29ft; chord, 6ft 9in; camber, 4in; aspect ratio, 6in; weight, 400lb.
Mr Gill has inspected the plane, with a possible view of giving it a trial with his new engine.
• The white swan is a bird not easily bred in New Zealand, but eight cygnets of this variety that are now being reared at Newtown Park, Wellington, present every appearance of healthy growth, and are very likely to attain maturity.
White swans have in the past been successfully reared at Nelson, but the total number raised thus far in the Dominion is small.
• The proprietors of the Mount Cook car service purpose starting on Monday next a weekly service from Pukaki to Pembroke connecting at the latter place with a coach for Queenstown.- ODT, 2.12.1910.
