carrying a 1-pounder gun, and used also as an observation
station. It is thought that L1 was also provided with four
machine-guns in her cars.

Later types of Zeppelins were fitted with a "wireless"
installation of sufficient range to transmit and receive messages
up to 350 miles. L1 could rise to the height of a mile in
favourable weather, and carry about 7 tons over and above her own
weight.

Even when on ground the unwieldy craft cause many anxious moments
to the officers and mechanics who handle them. Two of the line
have broken loose from their anchorage in a storm and have been
totally destroyed. Great difficulty is also experienced in
getting them in and out of their sheds. Here, indeed, is a
contrast with the ease and rapidity with which an aeroplane is
removed from its hangar.

It was maintained by the inventor that, as the vessel is rigid,
and therefore no pressure is required in the gas-chamber to
maintain its shape, it will not be readily vulnerable to
projectiles. But the Count did not foresee that the very
"frightfulness" of his engine of war would engender
counter-destructives. In a later chapter an account will be
given of the manner in which Zeppelin attacks upon these
islands were gradually beaten off by the combined efforts of
anti-aircraft guns and aeroplanes. To the latter, and the
intrepid pilots and fighters, is due the chief credit for the
final overthrow of the Zeppelin as a weapon of offence. Both the
British and French airmen in various brilliant sallies succeeded