ally Teutonic origin. The Taube was subsequently
tested both in France and Great Britain, but failed to raise an equal
degree of enthusiasm, owing to the manifestation of certain defects
which marred its utility. This practical experience tended to prove that
the Taube, like the Zeppelin, possessed a local reputation somewhat of
the paper type. The Germans, however, were by no means disappointed by
such adverse criticism, but promptly set to work to eliminate defects
with a view to securing an all-round improvement.

The most successful of these endeavours is represented in the
Taube-Rumpler aeroplane, which may be described as an improved edition
of Etrich's original idea. As a matter of fact the modifications were of
so slight, though important, a character that many machines generically
described as Taubes are in reality Rumplers, but the difference is
beyond detection by the ordinary and unpractised observer.

In the Rumpler machine the wings, like those of the Taube, assume
broadly the form and shape of those of the pigeon or dove in flight. The
early Rumpler machines suffered from sluggish control, but in the later
types this defect has been overcome. In the early models the wings were
flexible, but in the present craft they are rigid, although fitted with
tips or ailerons. The supporting truss beneath the wings, which was such
an outstanding feature of its prototype, has been dispensed with, the
usual I-beam longitudinals being used in its stead. The latest machines
fitted with 100-120 horse-power Mercedes motors have a fine turn of
speed, possess an enhanced ascensional effort, and are far simpler to
control.

Other German machines which are used in the military service are the
Gotha and the Albatross. The former is a monoplane, and here again
the influence of Etrich upon German aeroplane developments is strongly
manifested, the shape of the bird's wing being retained. In the Gotha
the truss which Etrich introduced is a prominent characteristic. The
Albatross is a biplane, but this craft has proved to be somewhat slow
and may be said to be confined to what might be described as the heavier
aerial military duties, where great endurance and reliability are
essential. As the war proceeds, doubtless Teuton ingenuity will
be responsible for the appearance of new types, as well as certain
modifications in the detail construction of the existing machines, but
there is every indication that the broad lines of Etrich's