Various engine trials were carried out, but no
attempt was made to fly, as owing to various reasons the ship was
short of lift. Valuable information was, however, gained in
handling the ship, and much was learnt of her behaviour at the
mast. More trouble was experienced in getting her back into the
shed, but she was eventually housed without sustaining any damage
of importance.
Owing to the lack of disposable lift, the bags were deflated and
various modifications were carried out to lighten the ship, of
which the principal were the removal of the keel and cabin
entirely, and the removal of the water-trimming services. Other
minor alterations were made which gave the ship, on completion, a
disposable lift of 3.21 tons. The transverse frames between the
gasbags were strengthened, and a number of broken wires were
replaced.
On September 22nd the ship was again completed, and on the 24th
she was again to be taken out and tested at the mooring post.
Unfortunately, while being hauled across the dock, the framework
of the ship collapsed, and she was got back into the shed the
same day.
Examination showed that it was hopeless to attempt to reconstruct
her, and she was broken up at a later date. The failure of this
ship was a most regrettable incident, and increased the prejudice
against the rigid airship to such an extent that for some time
the Navy refused to entertain any idea of attempting a second
experiment.
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