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In short, Harry had been detailed to carry out pioneer work with the Amphibian type of aircraft, the initial development of which is popularly, but erroneously, supposed to have been the outcome of the prizes offered by the Air Ministry in 1919 for machines of this type.

Extracts from Royal Aero Club notices to members, under date June 21st, 1913:

“Mortimer Singer £500 Prize.

“Intending competitors are again reminded that this competition is now open.

“Mr. H. G. Hawker on a Sopwith biplane has already made one or two attempts, and will be going again as soon as some minor alterations to the aircraft have been completed. In giving the specification of the aircraft used by Mr. Hawker, an error was made in regard to the motor. The aircraft is fitted with a 100 h.p. Green.”

“Height Records.

“Mr. H. G. Hawker has been keeping the officials of the Club fairly busy of late. On Sunday last, with the Sopwith biplane, he made an attempt on the British Height Record with two passengers. The record of 8,400 feet stands to the credit of Major E. L. Gerrard, R.M.L.I. Mr. Hawker, however, managed to top the 8,000 feet but did not surpass the existing record. The following day, Monday, with another Sopwith biplane, he set out for the record with one passenger. The present official record is 10,560 feet, standing to the credit of Lieut. G. de Havilland. Mr. Hawker, according to the sealed barograph, attained a height of about 12,000 feet. After about half an hour’s rest he decided to make another attempt on the two-passenger record, and on this occasion his barograph recorded about 10,000 ft.