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155

THE WRIGHT BROTHERS

On arrival at Dayton, Ohio I called at the West Third Street office and shop of the Wright Brothers. I was introduced to Mr. Frank Russell who was the manager of the Wright Company in charge of production. I also met Lorin Wright, a brother I had not previously met and Charles Taylor in charge of the machine shop.

We discussed the possibilities of exhibiting the Wright Brothers aeroplane. Due to my personal experience exhibiting at the state fairs I finally convinced these men that the possibilities were enormous and that we would make a much better profit than I was able to make even when my business was at its height.

Wilbur was of the opinion that I was too optimistic and that instead of a profit we could possibly have a deficit. He was very careful to point out the conditions that later could cause a suit for damages against the Wright Company. He was a very smart and careful man in his dealings with others.

A contract was entered into wherein I was to be the general manager of the exhibition department of the Wright Company. A clause was inserted providing for no flying on Sunday. This was a decided detriment as far as making contracts for the Wright aeroplane was concerned. The laboring classes could not get off from their jobs without loss of pay and their only free day would be Sunday.

No argument on my part had any effect. Wilbur explained that their father had made the request. That ended the matter.

My business was to promote the interests of the Wright Company, to promote and hold aviation meets wherever possible, to contract for and give exhibitions at state fairs and other public gatherings.

The work I had before me made it necessary to have an office where there would be no excitement or confusion. I found there

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