WALKING ON THE WATER.

New Zealand Times, Volume XXXIII, Issue 5416, 6 August 1878, Page 3

WALKING ON THE WATER.

It is reported by the New York Herald that in the early part of February, Captain Stratton, the “aquanaut,” accomplished his long-matured plan of walking on the water, and demonstrated its practicability by crossing the East River on foot, from Brooklyn to New York. But few persons knew of the daring feat that was to be accomplished, and consequently the captain was not troubled with many hangers-on. The suit which he wore was of rubber, and very similar to that used by Captain Boyton, with this difference, however, that it was arranged - in such a way that its heaviest portions were around the pedestrian's feet, so that his body'shonkl be kept upright in the water. Captain Stratton proceeded to the wharf at Jewell’s dock, and there ensconced himself in his atrango-looking suit. Then jumping iu the water ho started for New York shore. His body was perfectly upright, and he could use his legs to propel himself through the water, although it rose above his knees. He had intended to land at at Peck slip, directly opposite Jewell’s wharf, and would thus have had to cross the track of the Pulton ferry-boats, but the tide proved too strong for him, and he drifted down to a point near pier 10. He had been noticed as soon as he had got a few yards from the shore, and the passengers -on the different ferry-boats loudly cheered him. As he neared the shore a great crowd gathered on the pier aud met him as he landed. The crossing was commenced •about half-past 1, and Captain Stratton lauded on the New York side about 2 o’clock. He had intended to return on foot to. Brooklyn, •but owing to the strength of the tide he was obliged to. abandon this project, aud wont back byjtho way of Fulton ferry.