speeds, surface formation has no value. That is
shown by Pequod's feat.

THE SPEED MANIA.--This is a type of mania
which pervades every field of activity in the building
of aeroplanes. Speed contests are of more
importance to the spectators on exhibition
grounds than stability or durability. Builders
pander to this, hence machines are built on lines
which disregard every consideration of safety
while at normal flight.

USES OF FLYING MACHINES.--The machine as
now constructed is of little use commercially.
Within certain limitations it is valuable for scouting
purposes, and attempts have been made to
use it commercially. But the unreliable character
of its performances, due to the many elements
which are necessary to its proper working, have
operated against it.

PERFECTION IN MACHINES MUST COME BEFORE
SPEED.--Contrary to every precept in the building
of a new article, the attempt is made to make
a machine with high speed, which, in the very
nature of things, operates against its improvement.
The opposite lack of speed--is of far
greater utility at this stage of its development.

THE RANGE OF ITS USE.--The subject might be