“We” · Chapter
III: London explained
Lindbergh flies from Brussels to Croyden, England, where he is met by a massive crowd.
What happens
Lindbergh flies from Brussels to Croyden, England, where he is met by a massive crowd. He meets with British officials, including King George V, who awards him the Royal Air Force Cross, and the Prince of Wales. He attends various ceremonies and dinners, including a Memorial Day service at Westminster Abbey. After a delay due to weather, he flies to Paris and then to Cherbourg, where he boards the U.S.S. Memphis for his return to America.
Themes in this chapter
International Friendship and Diplomacy
Lindbergh's reception in London underscores the diplomatic goodwill and friendship between the United States and Britain, with officials and royalty celebrating his achievement.
Technological Progress and the Future
Sir Samuel Hoare's speech emphasizes the technical value of long-distance flights in stimulating progress and testing reliability, pointing toward future air communications.
Youth and Idealism
Lindbergh is celebrated as a young man embodying the spirit of adventure, courage, and daring, representing the new generation determined to subdue nature.
Characters to notice
- Charles Lindbergh
The central figure, received by royalty and British officials, awarded the Royal Air Force Cross.
- Sir Samuel Hoare
Secretary for Air; gives speeches at luncheons and banquets, praising Lindbergh's flight.
- Ambassador Houghton
American Ambassador to Britain; hosts Lindbergh and lays a wreath at Westminster Abbey.
- King Albert
Not directly mentioned in this chapter; referenced only in the context of earlier reception.
- Admiral Burrage
Vice Admiral who commands the U.S.S. Memphis, which carries Lindbergh home.
Key passages
“Is it not of value to the technical progress of aviation that a single air-cooled engine of 220 hp, consuming only 10 gallons of petrol an hour, should have travelled over 3,600 miles and been fit for another lap at the end of this?”
Sir Samuel Hoare argues that the flight demonstrates the engine's reliability and efficiency, proving the value of long-distance flights for aviation technology.
Hoare's speech at the Air Council luncheon defends the practical benefits of Lindbergh's feat.
“I am going to keep on flying.”
When asked by the Prince of Wales about his future plans, Lindbergh simply states his intention to continue his aviation career.
Lindbergh's response to the Prince of Wales at York House.
“It was a triumph of man over machinery, of man over the brute forces of nature.”
Sir Samuel Hoare describes Lindbergh's flight as a victory of human skill and courage over mechanical and natural challenges.
Hoare's parting thought at the banquet hosted by the combined American societies of London.