sing from the call to arms. France, moreover, imperilled her aerial
strength by forbidding the use of 558 machines which were ready for
service.

Germany's aerial fleet was of similar proportions to that of her Gallic
neighbour, but curiously enough, and in strange contrast, there appeared
to be a lack of readiness in this ramification of the Teuton
war machine. The military establishment possessed about 1,000
machines--active and reserve--of which it is estimated 700 were
available for instant service. During the period of mobilisation a
further 450 machines were added to the fleet, drawn for the most
part from private owners. So far as the dirigibles were concerned 14
Zeppelins were ready for duty, while others were under construction
or undergoing overhaul and repair. A few other types were also in
commission or acquired during mobilisation, bringing the dirigible force
to 40 machines all told.

But the greatest surprise was probably offered by Russia. Very little
was known concerning Russian activities in this particular field,
although it was stated that large orders for machines had been placed
with various foreign manufactories. Certain factories also had been
established within the Empire, although the character of their work and
its results and achievements were concealed from prying eyes. In Russia,
however, an appreciable number of private aeroplanes were in operation,
and these, of course, were placed at the disposal of the authorities the
moment the crisis developed.

The British and French aeroplane manufacturers had been busy upon
Russian orders for many months previous to the outbreak of hostilities,
while heavy shipments of component parts had been made, the assembling
and completion of the machines being carried out in the country. It is
generally believed that upon the outbreak of war Russia had a fleet of
800 aeroplanes in hand, of which total 150 were contributed from private
sources. Even the dirigible had not been overlooked, there being nearly
20 of these craft attached to the Russian Army, although for the most
part they are small vessels.

In comparison with the foregoing large aerial navies, that of Great
Britain appeared to be puny. At the moment Great Britain possesses about
500 machines, of which about 200 are waterplanes. In addition, according
to the Secretary of the Admiralty, 15 dirigibles should be in service.
Private enterprise is supported by the Government, which maintains a
fa