CHAPTER XXI.
An Attempt to reach the Twine by climbing on the Car.
Section 121. IN vain did the Aironaut strive to reach the Neck of the Balloon, from the Car. Attempting to put his Feet on the opposite Sides of the lower Hoop, by grasping the upper with his Hands; he coud not in that Situation raise himself so high as before; nor let go his Hold with either Hand.
He then stepped down into the Car. The Agitation of which, brought within the Reach of his Hand, the loose End of the Twine (purposely tyed on a Bow or Slip Knot) that had stuck to one of the Side-Cords, and held the Center of the Neck rather out of the Perpendicular.
CHAPTER XXII.
BALLOON AT ITS GREATEST HEIGHT.
Mouth of the Balloon opened.
Section 122. BEing cautious how he suffered the lightest Gass to escape throu’ the Top of the Balloon, which must have happened in drawing down the String of the Valve; yet apprehending the Possibility of an immediate Rupture at its present greatest Elevation;—glancing his Eyes around to take a farewel View;—he pulled the Twine, that tyed the Neck.
Balloon shrunk to its usual Shape.