Charles Hudson to Faraday   23 April 1839¹

April 23, 1839

Sir

I have considered it not impossible for to construct a machine by which we might be transported through the air with great velocity. The plan which I propose to construct this machine is to have a hollow sphere (with paddles fixed to it) of light material sufficiently strong for it when exhausted of its air to support the pressure of the atmosphere, it must have an axle and from that a semicircular band to drop downwards to which the carriage and wheel to set the globe in motion is attached, it must also have a dome to prevent it neutralising its own motion, all this machine together must be made light enough to rise into the air, it must then be made to revolve by means of the handle attached to the wheel, pullies and ropes must be fixed to each end of the axle to suspend weights to throw the axle out of the level of the horizon the machine will roll upon that side which has the greatest weight and by that means cause it to turn. In Balloons they have attempted to navigate with paddles attached to the car which cause them to rock. I now propose that the globe should be the support and motion. I am no mathematician so must leave the experiment to others if it is thought worth experimenting upon for difficulties arise with the learned which others over look or cannot see till explained[.]

I am aware of the imperfection of this description but if you feel yourself interested in it I should feel it an honour in waiting upon you[.]

I am your Obedient Servant | Charles Hudson

18 Edmunds Pl. Aldersgate St

Address: M. Faraday Esq | Royal Institution | 21 Albemarle St