One of the spectators accosted Franklin.
"What does Dr.Franklin conceive to be the use of this new invention ?" "What is the use of a new-born child ?" was the retort.
A new-born child, a new-born republic, a new invention: alike dim beginnings of development which none could foretell.

The year that saw the world acknowledge a new nation, freed of its ancient political bonds, saw also the first successful attempt to break the supposed bonds that held men down to the ground.

Though the invention of the balloon was only five months old, there were already two types on exhibition: the original Montgolfier, or fireballoon, inflated with hot air, and a modification by Charles, inflated with hydrogen gas.

The mass of the French people did not regard these balloons with Franklin's serenity.
Some weeks earlier the danger of attack had necessitated a balloon's removal from the place of its first moorings to the Champ de Mars at dead of night.

Preceded by flaming torches, with soldiers marching on either side and guards in front and rear, the great ball was borne through the darkened streets.