[38]. A scientific friend observed to the author, that, as the globe possesses less surface than any other figure of equal capacity, it is of all forms that which is best calculated to allow the closest approximation of the particles of soap and water; and as there must exist amongst such particles a strong cohesive tendency, after having been forcibly stretched out, as it were, by the air blown into the bubble, it follows that, did no other cause operate, the bubble would assume the spherical form.
[39]. Not exceeding the two millionth part of an inch.
[40]. Line 171.
CHAPTER XIII.
The Kite.--Its construction.--The Tail.--An Author’s meditations among the catacombs of Paternoster Row.--Works in their winding sheets.--How Mr. Seymour strung puns as he strung the Kite’s tail.--The Vicar’s dismay.--The Weather, with the hopes and fears which it alternately inspired.--Kites constructed in various shapes.--The figure usually adopted to be preferred.--The flight of the Kite.--A philosophical disquisition upon the forces by which its ascent is accomplished.--The Tail.--A Discourse on the theory of flying.--The structure and action of the wings of birds.--A series of kites on one string.--A Kite Carriage.--The Messenger.--The causes and velocity of wind explained.
The children were summoned into the library, and informed by their father that he was at leisure to explain the philosophy of the kite; a subject with which Tom had repeatedly expressed some impatience to become acquainted.
“It is a beautiful day,” exclaimed the boy joyously; “and there is such a delightful breeze, that I should really call it a complete kite-day.”