may, on the principle of the parachute, effect its own
salvation.

In the meanwhile, the rival balloon of hydrogen gas--the
Charliere, as it has been called--had had its first innings.
Before the close of the year MM. Roberts and Charles
constructed and inflated a hydrogen balloon, this time fitted
with a practicable valve, and in partnership accomplished an
ascent beating all previous records. The day, December 17, was
one of winter temperature; yet the aeronauts quickly reached
6,000 feet, and when, after remaining aloft for one and a half
hours, they descended, Roberts got out, leaving Charles in sole
possession. Left to himself, this young recruit seems to have
met with experiences which are certainly unusual, and which
must be attributed largely to the novelty of his situation. He
declared that at 9,000 feet, or less than two miles, all
objects on the earth had disappeared from view, a statement
which can only be taken to mean that he had entered cloud.
Further, at this moderate elevation he not only became benumbed
with cold, but felt severe pain in his right ear and jaw. He
held on, however, ascending till 10,500 feet were reached, when
he descended, having made a journey of thirty miles from the
start.

Ascents, all on the Continent, now followed one another in rapid
succession, and shortly the MM. Roberts essayed a venture on new
lines. They attempted the guidance of a balloon by means of
oars, and though they failed in this they were fortunate in
making a fresh record. They also encountered a thunderstorm,
and by adopting a perfectly scientific method--of which more