namely, one in the direction of the uppermost slip marked g, g, and the other through the central part of the bow: then two similar holes must be perforated through the lath where the lowermost slip is denoted at g, that is, at a little distance from each other; and, after properly drawing out the string, so as to form an obtuse angle over the body of the kite, it ought to be well secured behind, and afterwards tied with a knot, exactly in the middle, to make both parts of equal length. Another difficulty might arise from the uncertainty of determining the exact point of the cord last mentioned, at which the main string governing the kite should be applied. Hence the following general rule requires attention: namely, that, according to the impetuosity of the wind, the principal string must be fastened higher towards the head of the kite, with a view to facilitate its rising; and, on the contrary, lower towards the middle, in less blowing weather. The most advisable method will be, to tie the leading cord at a few inches only from the upper hole, and to ascertain its exact situation by experience.
The tail of the kite, k, k, now remains to be fixed, and is perhaps the most critical part of the whole machine. If it be too short, the latter instantly descends; and, if it be too long, its weight prevents the kite from rising. The most effectual way to avoid both extremes, will be to make the tail seven times the length of the frame: fine packthread should be chosen for this purpose, and double or triple folded slips of paper, two or three inches long, ought to be tied into the pendent string, at short intervals; when the latter is to be affixed to the body of the kite at b.
With respect to the flying of this machine, an open place and a fine day should be selected, when a gentle breeze agitates the air: after launching it against the wind, the person who holds the string ought to advance speedily to the distance of thirty or forty yards; and gradually to relax the whole clue, accordingly as the rising is more or less rapid. In order to adapt kites to the attraction of lightning from the clouds, a thin metallic point is to be affixed to the highest end a, and connected with the string of the machine by means of a thin wire: In this application, however, the greatest caution is necessary; and those, who amuse themselves with experiments of such precarious nature, ought by no means to make the first attempt during thunder-storms, but only when the sky is serene: nor should any person affix a metallic point, or wind the wire round the string, or even moisten it, unless he be perfectly acquainted with the principles on which their joint action depends. Hence, smaller kites which do not ascend too high, must be first employed, till we become better acquainted with the rules of flying, and of fastening the machinery: thus, every danger may be obviated, and this apparently puerile contrivance, be rendered subservient to a very useful purpose.—The necessary directions for managing electrical kites, as well as the most proper conduct at the approach of, and during a thunder-storm, the reader will find under the articles Lightning and Thunder.
Knapweed. See CommonBlue-botlle.
KNAWELL, or Scleranthus, L.
