Dayton, May 15, 1904
Your very interesting letter of the 7th inst. together with the newspaper clipping have been received. The fact that the first letters of the words along the edge of the column are missing, almost got Orville "up a tree" but he finally got it translated all right. The French seem to possess the virtue of hopefulness, at least for the present. If they possess perseverance in equal measure something of value may result.
We had a letter from Mr. Silberer, of Vienna, some time ago in which he sent his respects to you, and announced that Mr. Nimfuhr was no longer connected with his paper, or the aeronautical club, as secretary. We inferred that their relations were somewhat strained.
It seems to be a case of going away from home to hear the news all around. Prof. Langley, according to the Independent, announces that a Russian captain has made successful flights with an aerodrome, reaching a speed of 60 miles an hour; while from Europe comes mysterious news of great things in America. Do you think that Mr. Herring has been working Mr. Alexander, and possibly "pulled his leg"?
The "Flyer No. 2" is approaching completion;1 another day ought to see it about finished. We will probably spend a day or two making indoor machinery tests before attempting a flight, and if all goes well will resume outdoor practice before the end of this week.
1 See Plate 79.
Octave Chanute to Wilbur Wright, May 16, 1904