The Flying Ship of 1709

In issue number 56 of the Evening Post published in the reign of Queen Anne and dated 20-22nd December 1709, we find a curious description of a Flying Ship, stated to have "lately been invented by a Brazilian priest". It was brought to the notice of the King of Portugal in a lengthy address which had been translated from the Portuguese into English, and published in its entirety in the Evening Post.
Here are the opening remarks:-

'Father Batholomew says he has found out an invention, by the Help of which one may more speedily travel through the Air than any other Way either by Sea or Land, so that one may go 200 Miles in 24 hours . . . . . '

In an explanation of the accompanying drawing, which includes reference to the sails and wings, the body of the craft is described as being constructed of iron plates covered by straw mats. The latter not only providing convenience and comfort for the captain but for his crew also, who comprised no less than 10 or 11 additional men besides!

The two globes just visible resting upon pedestals, one representing Heaven and the other Earth, are likewise composed of metal and serve as covers for two loadstones [magnetic rock] placed inside them which in turn are designed to draw the ship through the air. Upon the strange arrangement of mesh, or netting, are fixed a great many large amber beads which, according to the account, "by a Secret Operation will help to keep the Ship aloft. And by the Sun's heat the aforesaid Mats that line the Ship will be drawn towards the Amber Beads."

Other items visible in the drawing are both a compass and a telescope. At a distance of 200 miles in 24 hours, we can easily calculate that the speed of this aerial ship would amount to little more than eight miles per hour. No match for a sea going sailing ship nor indeed a healthy 20th century jogger.

The writer of this tale babbles on about the glory awaiting 'Authors of so Admirable a Machine, which so many nations have in vain attempted,' and in unabashed manner he seeks to establish his position in all this by adding: 'May it please your Majesty to grant your humble Petitioner the Priviledge that no Person shall presume to Use, or make the Ship, without the Express License of the Petitioner.'