Punch,  4 (1843), 220–21.

Narrative of an Experimental Trip in an Aerial Courier

Professor Gullphlatt

Genre:

Diary, Spoof

Subjects:

Aeronautics, Invention, Transport, Accidents


    Gullphlatt describes his construction and attempt to launch an 'Aerial Courier'. Some of the 'first working chemists in London' gave his machine 'extra volatility' by supplying highly compressed 'jokes' in 'strong cast-iron cylinders'. Wanted to put the statesman Henry P Brougham (1st Baron Brougham and Vaux) in charge of the engine-room because, in addition to his 'scientific knowledge', he had been 'so long in hot water'. Decided against him because he would cause the engines to work 'all ways at once' (a reference to the description of Brougham as the Mr Facing-Both-Ways of William M Thackeray's Vanity Fair). Gullphlatt finally manages to launch the invention from Primrose Hill but mishaps begin when the machine is turned around on colliding with the steeple of St Giles' Church. He attempts to steady the machine by letting out 'spare jokes' and accordingly considers the 'whole accident a glorious piece of fun'. (220)



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