1937 Abrams P1 Explorer surveillance aircraft - photo

[Floradawg]

Rear engine, with airborne version of Kort Nozzle (ducted propellor), seems logical approach to reducing prop noise. Fits right in era these gained traction for nautical applications.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ducted_propellor
and/ or
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ducted_fan

Ducted fans are used on IC engine powered model jets to make them look authentic.