The Eagle Cliff, by R.M. Ballantyne

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Title: The Eagle Cliff

Author: R.M. Ballantyne

Release Date: November 6, 2007 [EBook #23373]

Language: English

Character set encoding: ASCII

*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE EAGLE CLIFF ***

Produced by Nick Hodson of London, England

The Eagle Cliff, by R.M. Ballantyne.

CHAPTER ONE.

BEGINS THE TALE--NATURALLY.

From the earliest records of history we learn that man has ever been envious of the birds, and of all other winged creatures. He has longed and striven to fly. He has also signally failed to do so.

We say "failed" advisedly, because his various attempts in that direction have usually resulted in disappointment and broken bones. As to balloons, we do not admit that they fly any more than do ships; balloons merely float and glide, when not otherwise engaged in tumbling, collapsing, and bursting.

This being so, we draw attention to the fact that the nearest approach we have yet made to the sensation of flying is that achieved by rushing down a long, smooth, steep hill-road on a well-oiled and perfect ball-bearings bicycle! Skating cannot compare with this, for that requires exertion; bicycling down hill requires none. Hunting cannot, no matter how splendid the mount,

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