In Brünn, some weeks were spent before the necessary erlaubnitz and other preparations could be made.
At last I could find no better place than the gas-works, and although the yard was not particularly sheltered from general view, still I felt inclined to chance pecuniary success, as a great deal of interest was manifested in the visit, and I was assured that all would go prosperously if I would but make the trial.
I did so on September 22nd, and from the moment the gates were opened there was an uninterrupted stream of visitors, which left my own mind certain that I had not misplaced confidence in those who advised me to speculate with boldness.
At a quarter to six, the “colossal machine,” as the Moravians called the “Sylph,” rose towards the skies, with two gentlemen besides the “air-captain.”
The voyage terminated near the village of Babetz.
Another successful ascent was made from the same spot on October 7th, when Herr Alexander Spindler and Herr Leopold Spitzer were my companions. We let down a large parachute on this occasion, with a dog in the car.
Leaving Brünn I made straightway for Vienna, where I learnt that an exhibition would have to be made in the Prater, and that on no account could I expect to have my balloon in any other spot.
Now the Prater was an excellent park-like ground for a spring or summer gathering, but it was now getting late in October, and my only chance was a more suitable locality in the inner town.
Just opposite the Palace was situated the Volks-garten, a fashionable place of resort, well adapted for my purpose.
The lessee of this famous garden was an Italian, and I got a good introduction to him, and proposed that he should have such an interest in our exhibition, as would stimulate him to exertion, that is, to obtain from the authorities permission to proceed.