aviators, as is shown by the persistency in adhering
to the old methods, are believed to be mechanically
correct, and worthy of consideration.

THE LOW CENTER OF GRAVITY.--But we have still
to examine another feature which shows the wrong
principle in the fixed planes. The question is
often asked, why do the builders of aeroplanes
place most of the weight up close to the planes?
It must be obvious to the novice that the lower
the weight the less liability of overturning.

FORE AND AFT OSCILLATIONS.--The answer is,
that when the weight is placed below the planes it
acts like a pendulum. When the machine is traveling
forward, and the propeller ceases its motion,
as it usually does instantaneously, the weight, being
below, and having a certain momentum, continues
to move on, and the plane surface meeting
the resistance just the same, and having no means
to push it forward, a greater angle of resistance is
formed.

In Fig. 19 this action of the two forces is illustrated. The
plane at the speed of 30 miles is at
an angle of 15 degrees, the body B of the machine
being horizontal, and the weight C suspended directly
below the supporting surfaces.

The moment the power ceases the weight continues