CERTAIN IMPROVEMENTS IN TELEGRAPHIC APPARATUS, AND IN THE MEANS OF COMMUNICATING INTELLIGENCE BY SIGNALS
Year: 1837

page_text: TO ALL TO WHOM THESE PRESENTS SHALL COME, I, WILLIAM
HENRY JAMES, late of Birmingham, in the County of Warwick, but now
of Vauxhall, in the County of Surrey, Civil Engineer, send greeting.
WHEREAS Her most Excellent Majesty Queen Victoria, by Her Letters
Patent under the Great Seal of Great Britain, bearing date at Westminster,
the Twenty-second day of December, in the first year of Her reign, did, for
Herself, Her heirs and successors, give and grant unto me, the said William
Henry James, Her special licence that I, the said William Henry James, my
exors, admors, and assigns, or such others as I, the said Willim Henry James,
my exors, admiors, and assigns, should at any time agree with, and no others,
from time to time and at all times during the term of years therein expressed,
should and lawfully might make, use, exercise, and vend, within England,
Wales, and the Town of Berwick-upon-Tweed, and also within all Her
Majesty's Colonies and Plantations abroad, my Invention of "CERTAIN
IMPROVEMENTS IN TELEGRAPHIC APPARATUS, AND IN THE MEANS OF COMMUNICATING
INTELLIGENCE BY SIGNALS;" in which said Letters Patent there is contained a
proviso, obliging me, the said William Henry James, by an instrument in
writing under my hand and seal, particularly to describe and ascertain the
nature of my said Invention, and in what manner the same is to be performed,
and to cause the same to be enrolled in Her Majesty's High Court of
Chancery within six calendar months next and immediately after the date
of the said recited Letters Patent, as in and by the same, reference being
thereunto had, will more fully and at large appear.
NOW KNOW YE, that, in compliance with the said proviso, I, the said
William Henry James, do hereby declare that the nature of my said Invention,

page_text: and the manner in which the same is to be performed, is described and
ascertained as follows (that is to say):-
The nature of my "Improvements in Telegraphic Apparatus, and in the
Means of Communicating Intelligence by Signals," consists in the general
combination of parts which constitute the machinery thereof, and of several
new and improved methods of effecting the communication of intelligence, as
hereafter described in connection with the Drawings hereunto annexed and
referred to.
Having thus declared the nature of my improvements, I proceed, in accord-
ance with the aforesaid proviso, to ascertain and describe in what manner the
same are to be performed.
The Drawing marked No. 1 represents a telegraph to be used in the day,
the signals of which are denoted and are distinguished from each other by
change of color in the arms thereof, used singly or in combination, as herein-
after described.
Figure 1: A represents the telegraph station-house; B, a hollow pillar,
mast, or stein, composed of wood or other suitable materials, and supporting
four fixed arms or indicators (C, D, E, F,) which are also made hollow, of wood
or other suitable materials, and are painted white, and made sufficiently strong
to resist the force of the wind. These arms, both back and front, are bounded
by frames or raised edges a, a, a, a, which frames or raised edges each contain
a series of laths or vanes, or other pieces, moving on centres therein in manner
of Venetian blinds. These laths, vanes, or pieces are each painted black
on one side and red upon the other, and white upon their outward edges.
Figure 2 represents an outline section of the centro part of the arms or
indicators (C, D, E, F). c, d, are two vertical rods, to which the laths or
vanes of the arms C and F are attached by a series of joints, shewn at the
centre of Figure 3; e, f, are two horizontal rods, to which the laths of the
arms D and E are similarly attached; g, h, are two bell cranks, connecting
the horizontal rods e, f, with tho vertical rods j, k.
Figure 8 represents a vertical section of the arms C and F. B is a section
of the hollow pillar or stem; b, b, b, b, are laths or vanes turned edgewise.
Figure 4 represents a perspective outline, showing the continuation of the
stem B as within the station house (A), and also the continuation of the rods
j,c,d, k, as connected with the levers or handles 1, 1, 1, 2, which levers turn upon
centres m, m, m, m, and are provided with springs n, n, n, n, by which they
are kept in an horizontal position, which is made to correspond with the
horizontal position of the laths or vanes in the arms above, ordinarily exposing
their white edges only to view, and by means of which springs such levers and

page_text: vanes are brought back into the horizontal position when released, after having
been forced either upwards or downwards by the person working the telegraph.
Having thus described the various parts of this telegraph, I proceed to shew.
how the same are put into operation, and the colours of the several arms-
or indicators (C; D, E, F,) changed at pleasure, viz, it will be readily perceived
by the previous description that when all the levers ;;,, are in an horizontal'
position, as held by the springs n, n, n, n, the laths or vanes in the arms 'above
will also be in an horizontal position, presenting their white edges' only to
view, together with the white surface of the arms or indicators beneath them,
thus giving a white appearance to the whole of such arms, as is shown in the
single arm F; but when any of the levers 1, 1, 1, 1, are pressed upwards-or
downwards they will, by their action upon the rods j, c, d, k, produce a cor-
responding effect upon the laths or vanes above to which they are jointed,
as before described, thereby causing them to present either one side or the
other, and so exposing either their red or black surfaces to view, as shewn in
the single vertical arm C, or in the two horizontal arms D and E, by which
action upon the laths or vanes it will be easily understood that any of the arms.
(C, D, E, F,) can have their surfaces changed to white, red, or black at.
pleasure, so as to denote singly and by their varied combinations numerous.
signals or symbols, to which meanings or significations may be attached,'
previously understood or agreed upon between the parties who are communi-
cating with each other thereby. I do not, however, confine myself to the use
of these colours only, as other colours would answer the purpose; neither do I
confine myself to the use of any particular number or shape of arms or
indicators, or to any particular surface or surfaces upon or to which such laths,
vanes, or pieces moving in centres are attached; but limit my claim of
Invention to the method of changing the colours of any given surfaces for
telegraphic purposes, by means of coloured vanes, laths, or pieces connected.
together in manner of Venetian blinds, and acted upon by levers or handles, as
before described.
Drawing No. 2 exhibits another form of telegraph, the signals of which are
denoted by large numerical figures, letters, or other symbols attached to net-
work stretched in frames, as herein-after described.
Figure 1: A represents the telegraph station-house; B, B, B, B, four strong
posts of timber or other suitable materials, painted white, fixed upon-the-station
house (A), and extending downwards within it. In the sides of each of these
posts there are formed ten longitudinal grooves, to allow of three sets of frames
containing figures, letters, or symbols, to slide freely up and down the same.
In each set of these frames there are ten numerical figures or other symbols

page_text: formed of canvass or other suitable materials, fixed upon and supported by net-
work, or by cordage or wire stretched across the same, and painted white. In
this Drawing, Figure 1, three of these frames are exhibited, showing the
numerical figures 8, 2, 5. Figure 2 represents two of these posts (B, B,)
containing one of the frames, with the figure 4 shewn separately, which is
drawn up and down its corresponding grooves by means of the cord a. To the
upper part of this frame are attached lines or cords (6, b,) on each side thereof,
working over pullies (c, c,) with balancing weights (d, d,) suspended thereto,
and which weights rise and fall within the tubes (e, e,) which keep them
separate from each other. The frame C has friction rollers in its sides (not
seen in the Drawing). Figure 3 represents a side view of one of the posts B,
showing the cords (b, b, b, &c.), the weights (d, d, d, &c.), the pullies (c, c, c, &c.),
and tubes (e, e, e, &c.) of a series of ten frames working behind each other in
their corresponding grooves. In this telegraph (as shewn in the Drawing,
there will be required three such sets of frames between the vertical posts
(B, B, B, B,) before described, with similar cords, pullies, weights, and tubes.
The action of this telegraph consists simply in raising into view by cords
(a, a, &c.) any required frame or frames, with the required figure or figures,
letters, or symbols thereon, and in the lowering, and consequently obscuring the
same within the station-house (A). My claim of Invention in respect of this
telegraph consists simply in the employment of large numerical figures or
other symbols, supported as before described, but without limiting myself to
the number thereof employed at each station, or to the mode of exhibiting
them, as the figures supported by cordage or notwork may be either raised and
lowered in rigid frames in grooves, as before described, or rolled and unrolled
upon rollers in manner of roller blinds, with rigid rods only at top and bottom.
Drawing No. 3 exhibits another form of telegraph, the signals of which are
denoted by skeleton numerical figures, alphabetical letters, or other symbols
raised from within the station-house in an isolated state by peculiar machinery
for producing what may be termed "double-action," that is to say, as one
set of symbols are raised into view, another set become obscured, and vice
versa, as hereafter described.
Figure 1 (letter A) represents the telegraph station house; 7, 5, 2, 9, 6,
isolated figures, formed of iron tubing or other suitable materials, and mounted
on rods (c, c, c, c, c,) and exposed as signals above the parapet (B) of the
station-house, behind which parapet they are lowered, and consequently
obscured, when not in use. Figure 2 represents a plan of the machinery of
this "double-action" telegraph. D, D, are two rectangular frames, having cross
bars (E, E, E, E, &c.) through series of holes, in which the vertical rods

page_text: (F, F, F, &c.) can freely move. H, H, H, H, are two beams turning on
centres at I, I, and jointed to the frames D, D, and also connected by the
rods J, J, and by which the frames D, D, are moved alternately upwards and
downwards. Figure 3 represents an end view of the machinery. D, D, the
two rectangular frames, and H, one of the beams before described; K, a pillar
or stem supporting the beam H; L, a treadle for giving motion to the beams,
and suspended thereto by rods (M, M); N, O, are radius and parallel rods for
giving true and perpendicular motion to the frames D, D, a similar set of
which rods are also jointed in similar manner to the other end of frames D, D,
and beam H; F, F, F, F, F, F, &c., are two out of ten series of vertical rods,
moving through guides (with friction rollers, not shewn in the Drawing).
These rods support on each side the signal figures at P, P, and rest on
spiral springs (Q, Q, Q, Q, &c.), that work within tubes, as shewn in the
section, Figure 3; R, R, R, R, Figure 2, are a series of horizontal shafts fixed
in bearings on collars, upon the outward extremities of which are fixed a series
of ratchets or catches (S, S, S, S, &c.), which are acted upon by springs, which
force them, when at liberty, into a series of notches or angular cavities formed
in the vertical rods (F, F, F, &c.) These horizontal shafts (R, R, R, R,)
have cranks at their other extremities hanging downwards, which are con-
nected with a series of rods a, a, x, x, x, at right angles thereto, with handles
w, w, w, w, &c., as shewn in section, Figure 8. These rods and cranks and
horizontal shafts are for the purpose of enabling the person working the
telegraph at the centre of the building to act upon any of the spring catches at
pleasure, by merely pulling forward any of the handles w, w, w, w, so as to
release any of the vertical rods (F, F, F, F, &c.) All of these rods
(F, F, F, F,) except one, are shewn in the section, Figure 8, as held down by
the catches S, S, S, S; the one that has been liberated displaying the
figure 7 above it at T, which will be returned by the depression of the frame
D, which carries it downwards with it by pressing on the stop or projection
v, v, u, v, &c. Figure 4 represents an enlarged view of one of the catches
(S, S, S, &c.), shewing the spring Y, at the back thereof, pressing the catch
into a notch in the vertical rod F. R represents the end of one of the
horizontal shafts, with its crank (y) at its other end, together with the rod X
and handle W. The action of the telegraph is as follows:-Supposing all the
vertical rods (F, F,) secured in their places by the spring catches (S, S, S, S,)
and the spiral springs (Q, Q, Q, &c.), compressed, as shewn on the left side of
section, Figure 8, and the frame D and beams brought downwards by the
treadle L, as also shewn in this section, when any one or more of the
handles W, W, W, being drawn forwards, will liberate the corresponding'

page_text: catches, by which the corresponding rods will rise by means of the spiral
springs, and butt against the frame D, in consequence of the projections, there-
on (v, v, v, v,) the frame D then being raised, the spiral springs will further
expand, and force up the vertical rods which rest upon them, which will cause
the figures to be brought into view above the parapet B. In consequence of
this operation, the opposite frame D, by means of the beams H, H, will be
depressed, carrying with it any figures that might have been raised in a
similar manner on its side of the building, and so on alternately. By means,
therefore, of this double-action telegraph, while one set of figures or symbols
are being exhibited, another set are prepared for action, so as to cause a con-
siderable saving of time in making the signals.
Having thus described the machinery and mode of its action, I proceed to
state my claim of Invention in respect to this description of telegraph, which
consists of the general arrangement and application of such machinery, as
before described, for raising into view one set, consisting of any desired number
of skeleton isolated figures or other symbols, while at the same time and with
the same movement another set are depressed and obscured, without limiting
myself to the number of such figures, letters, or symbols that may be so
exhibited at each station.
Drawing No. 4 represents a night telegraph, the symbols or signals of
which are denoted by vivid rays or beams of light issuing from a lantern
through tubes or orifices into the atmosphere, which rays may be rondered
visible or obscured at pleasure by the means herein-after described.
Figure 1: A represents the telegraph station-house; B, a hollow pillar, mast,
or stem, composed of wood or other suitable materials, and supporting C, the
lantern, in which is produced an exceedingly intense light by the combustion
of hydrogen with lime and oxygen, commonly known by the name of Drum-
mond's light, or any other light may be used of sufficient intensity. There
are six tubes or orifices (a, a, a, a, a, a,) around this lantern, as shown in the
Drawing, with or without cylindrical glasses inserted therein, and through
these tubes the rays or beams of light are projected from the burner within
the lantern into the atmosphere, as shewn in the Drawing. c, c, represents
the chimney of the lantern, and (b) a large coloured lens fixed in the lantern,
and there is a similar lens on the opposite side, shown in the section, Figure 8.
These lenses are rendered visible or otherwise by means hereafter described.
Figure 2 shews the manner of denoting the ten digits by rays of light exhibited
singly or in combination; Figures 3 and 4 are side and front sections of the
lantern and of the pillar or stem B. c, c, is the chimney; c, d, e, f, g, h, are
valves or stops fixed in the tubes of the lantern, which being opened or closed

page_text: admit or shut off the rays of light; i, j, k, l, m, n, are rods jointed to the backs
of valves or stops c, d; e, f, g, h, and connected with six corresponding keys
8, 8, 8, 8, 8, 8, each of which keys have springs underneath (not shown in
Drawing), to bring them back to an .horizontal position after being pressed
downwards, and then released. 0, 0, are circular slides or valves connected
by rod (r) to key (w). The action of this telegraph is as follows:-The lamp
or light being raised within the lantern (C), which may be drawn up or lowered
at pleasure from below, through the: hollow. pillar or 'stem (B), by means of
pullies and ropes, (not shewn in the Drawing), any one or more of the keys
(8, 8, 8, 8, 8, 8,) being pressed downwards by the person working the telegraph, will
have the effect of drawing down the rod or rods connected therewith, and of
opening their corresponding stops or valves in the tubes or orifices (a,a,a,a,a,a,)
through each of which so opened a' ray or beam of light will issue into the
atmosphere, and which 'valves will, by means of the springs underneath them,
close again, so as to shut of the rays or beams the moment the pressure is
removed from the keys. In like manner, by pressing down the key (w), (which
has also a spring underneath it), and. thereby drawing away the valves ór
slides o, o, by means of the rod (r), the coloured lenses may at any time be
rendered visible, or by the reaction of the key be obscured.
Having thus described the apparatus of this telegrap, and its mode of action,
I'proceed to 'state, my claim of Invention, which consists in the application
and employment of rays of beams of artificial light projected into the atmo-
sphere, either singly or in combination; for denoting telegraphic symbols or
signals, without limiting myself to the number or position of the rays or beams
so employed; and also I claim the construction of the lantern, with orifices
or tubes and other apparatus connected therewith, for producing, emitting,
and shutting off-such rays at pleasure by means of keys and their adjuncts, as
before described, without limiting' myself to the number or position of such
tubes, valves, rods, and keys.
Drawing No. 5 exhibits another form of night telegraph, similar in principle
to the one last described in Drawing No. 4, except that the rays of light,
instead of being projected into the atmosphere, are directed into hollow arms or
indicators glazed back and front, which are fixed upon the lantern, as herein-
after described."*"
Figure 1: letter A represents the telegraph -station-house; B, the hollow
pillar, mast, or stem, composed of wood or other suitable materials, upon which
is fixed the lantern C containing Drummond's light, or any other intense light.
D, E, F, G, are four hollow arms or indicators, fixed upon the lantern C, and
fitted with glass or other transparent substance, back and front, into which

page_text: arms the rays of light issue from the burner within the lantern. Z is a
coloured lens on the centre of the lantern, there being a similar one on its
opposite side (but not shewn in the Drawing).
Figure 2 represents the method of denoting the ten digits by rendering any
one or more of the four arms or indicators luminous. Figure 3 exhibits a
section of the valves (H, I, II, II,) as closed; these are jointed to the rods
K, K, K, K, connected with spring keys L, L, L, L, and the valve levers
(M, M, M, M,) on each side of the lantern. The lenses are provided with
valves, a rod, and spring key, not shown in this Drawing, being similar in every
respect to those in the last Drawing No. 4, as is also the mode of action upon
the valves for admitting or shutting off the rays of light at pleasure; or these
hollow glazed arms may be illuminated by a series of gas burners, or other
lights provided within them, at convenient distances, having proper apertures
in the arms for admitting the air and allowing the smoke to escape. If gas-
lights be used, they may be enlarged and rendered luminous, or brought low
and nearly extinguished behind screens when required to be obscured, by four
sets of stop-cocks fitted in the gas pipes, and attached by means of bell cranks
(instead of the valves H, H, H, H,) to the rods K, K, K, K, and operated
upon, as before described, by the spring keys L, L, L, L, or such gaslights, or any
other lights which may be used; the said arms may be rendered luminous or
obscured by series of Venetian blinds, or by shutters fixed upon the arms, and
operated upon by keys, as shewn and described for telegraph in Drawing No. 1.
My claim of Invention in respect to this telegraph consists in the employment
of hollow arms or indicators, fitted back and front, or front only, with glass or
other transparent substances, any one or more of which may be easily rendered
luminous or obscured for telegraphic purposes by the machinery which I have
described, without limiting myself to the number, position, or form of such
arms, or to the nature or kind of artificial light or of transparent substance to
be made use of therein.
Drawing No. 6: Figure 1 represents a portable telegraph, which, however,
may be fixed and used permanently, and which may be employed advanta-
geously on the topmasts of vessels at sea; the symbols or signals being of a
very simple nature, easily exhibited, and readily understood, and not materially
affected by wind. In Figure 1, A is the pole or mast of the telegraph;
B, B, B, B, are cords attached to the mast A, to keep it steady, and
which, for field purposes, may be made fast to pegs driven into the ground,
and for other more permanent purposes may be made fast to rings or other
convenient fastenings on the tops of buildings, &c.; C, D, is one of the cross
pieces of the telegraph; E is the half of another cross piece, the other half

page_text: of the secondly-mentioned cross piece being obscured by the pole or mast A;
F is a pulley fixed to the centre of the cross piece C, D, a similar pulley'
being fixed at G, to the other cross piece E; and H, J, are two large pulley
wheels turned by levers or handles K, L, a very small movement of which
will cause an entire revolution of the small pulley wheels E and G. These
small and large pulley wheels are connected by cords, straps, or chains M, N,
and O, P, which cords, straps, or chains, are attached in the following
manner:-The upper end of cords M and N are fixed to the lowest point of
the periphery of the pulley F, and then passed over it, side by side, in contrary
directions, the other ends are then passed, side by side, in contrary directions
over the large pulley wheel H, and fixed on the upper part of its periphery;
O and P are similarly attached to the pulley at G, and large pulley wheel at J.
Figure 2 exhibits ten different signals made with the cross pieces C, D, and E,
by which the digits or other signs may be indicated or signified, and several
other changes may be made by means of such cross pieces being drawn into or
disposed in other positions. The simple action of the telegraph is as follows :-
The person who works it takes hold of the levers K and L, one in each
hand, by the motion of which levers and multiplying pulley wheels II and J.
he can cause the cross pieces C, D, and E, to make complete revolutions
upon their centres independent of each other, and can fix them in the planes
of their respective circles in various positions in respect to each other, and can
change their positions very readily without ever having occasion to take his
bands from off the levers K, L, till his communication is complete.
My claim of Invention in respect to this telegraph consists in the employ-
ment of two equal cross pieces of wood or other materials moving upon centres
connected with pulley wheels, and two levers, as shown in the Drawing No. 6,
but without limiting myself only to the use of such pulleys, wheels, cords, &c.,
for making the connection between the cross pieces and levers, as other inter-
mediate machinery would answer the purpose.
:
Drawing No. 7: Figure 1 represents another form of night telegraph, the
symbols or signals from which are made by two rays of light projected into the.
atmosphere from lanterns, in which are placed two exceedingly intense lights
(which may be of the description mentioned in relation to Figure 1, in the
Drawing No. 4). The rays or beams from which lanterns may be caused to.
move in different directions. Figure 1: A is the telegraph station-house; B is
a solid pillar or stem, as described in previous Drawings, supporting C, one of
the lanterns or lamb casings fixed in front of pillar B, which lantern has a
tube or aperture K, on one side thereof, for emitting a ray of light in one.
direction. J is a similar tube or aperture fixed or made in another similar:

page_text: lantern or lamp case behind the pillar B, for emitting a ray or beam of light
in an opposite direction. Figuro 2 represents the side view of the lanterns
enlarged; B, the pillar to which the two arms a, b, are attached; upon
these the hollow axles c, d, with the lanterns or lamp casings C and D, are
made partially to revolve by the cords, straps, or chains E, F, fixed to the
pullies g, h, &, extending into the building A, to large pullies, and to two levers
fixed to the pillar B, in the same manner as shown in the Drawing No. 6
(as attached to mast A), the pullies g, h, being fixed to the hollow axles c, d,
of the lanterns or lamp casings C, D; j is one of the tubes for emitting a ray
of light, the other tube belongs to the lantern C, and is hidden, being on the
other side thereof; k, l, the chimneys, the mode of supporting which and the
lamps q, r, will be seen in section, Figure 3 ; m, n, are curved plates to obscure
the rays when the tubes j, k, are brought behind them. Figure 3 is a section
of the lanterns C, D, containing the lamps; q, r, o, p, are rods attached to
the arms (a, b,) of the pillar B, to the tops of which rods the chimneys K, L,
(with curved covering plates to prevent the light escaping (at slits cut in the
lanterns for passing the lamp chimneys), are fixed, the lower ends of these
rods supporting the lamps q, r. The action of this telegraph is as follows:-
The lights being placed within the lanterns or lamp casings C and D, and the
tubes, j, for emitting the rays, being brought round behind the obscuring
plates m and n, which position is made to correspond with the upward position
of the levers within the building (not shewn, but similar to those in the last
Drawing), then by the person who works the telegraph moving either of the
levers downwards, he brings up the tubes from behind the obscuring plates m
and n, by which the two rays are projected or emitted from the lamps into the
atmosphere, and any required position given to them by means of the levers
and pullies before described.
My claim of Invention for this description of telegraph consists "in the
machinery and apparatus which I have described for producing and giving
motion to and varying the positions of two, or either of two rays of light for
telegraphic purposes.
Drawing No 8 exhibits two telegraphs of another description, the signals of
which are denoted by symbols indicating numerical figures fixed on horizontal
rods turning on centres, so as to expose their surfaces, or present their edges
only to view. These telegraphs are placed at each station, at suitable distances
from each other, in pairs, for the purpose (if required) of transmitting signals
constantly in both directions, so that a line of telegraphs on one side may
convey the communications in one direction only, and the communications in
the contrary direction be made by the line of telegraphs on the other side.

page_text: This Drawing also exhibits the apparatus or machinery by which I propose
making one building available for the two telegraphs at each station, and to
bring the working of the same within the power of one attendant, so as to
enable one person to make, pass,. or forward signals in either direction.
Figure 1 represents a section of the telegraph station-house, consisting of a
centre part and two elevated ends or wings. On the left half the apparatus
is exhibited in section; on the right, the external casing of the other half is
shewn. On the left, A, B, C, D, are four hollow masts, stems, or posts of wood
or other suitable materials, rising a convenient height above, the roof of the
station-house; the posts A and B (shown in section, for the sake of distinction)
are to be considered as of a line of telegraphs for making signals in one direc-
tion, and the posts C, D, as of a line of telegraphs for making signals in the
opposite direction. Each of these posts has four fixed hollow arms or tubes
projecting horizontally from each side. These arms.contain rods or shafts
(a, b, c, d,) to the outer ends of which rings or discs or other symbols (of metal
or other suitable materials), of convenient thinness, are. attached, painted
black or any other suitable colour. These rings or discs. or other symbols
are capable of being turned from an horizontal to a vertical position, so as to
present to view the surfaces of the rings or discs or other symbols attached to
them, while at other times their edges only are presented, which are nearly or
quite invisible at a distance. By these rings, discs, or other symbols the
signals are denoted, or indicated in the following manner, videlicet, each of the
top symbols (lettered E) denotes the numerical figure 1; the next (F), tho
figure 2;..the next (G), the figure 8; and the lower ones (H) denote the
figure 4. The higher digits.5, 6, 7, 8, and 9 are expressed or indicated by
the exhibition at one and the same time of some two or more of the symbols,
thus; on the left of the stem A, the exhibition of rings or symbols 1 and 4
signify the number 5, because 4 being added to 1 are equal to. 5, so in like
manner, on the right of the same..stem, 2. and 4 express 6. On both sides
the post B, the symbols 2, 3, and 4 being exposed, represent 9, 9. In a
similar manner the remaining digits are expressed. by. combinations and
addition, for instance, the symbols indicating the figures 4 and 3 being
exposed, represents 7; the symbols 4, 3, and 1, the number 8; and all the
symbols being exhibited would represent 10; by the use of these double posts
or stems, we thus obtain from sets of the digits 1, 2, 3, and 4, and upon
the same principle, that as shewn in this example of A and B, the compound
number 5699 is represented, any other number, varying from 1 to,,10,999,
may be exhibited. It will be obvious that by the addition of another similar
mast with corresponding machinery, that the numbers capable of being

page_text: exhibited would extend to 1,099,999. The rods a, b, c, d, which are attached
to the symbols, have small cranks, e, f, g, h, attached to them, which cranks
are provided with springs (not shewn in the Drawing), to return the symbols
into an horizontal position, and retain them in that position until again acted
upon, and which cranks are jointed to the vertical rods shewn in section,
which vertical rods are also jointed at their lower ends by similar cranks
j, k, l, m, attached to horizontal rods or shafts, each set of which is numbered
1, 2, 3, 4, in the section Drawing, corresponding with the respective rings or
other symbols they are intended to act upon. These horizontal rods or shafts
1, 2, 3, 4, have attached to them, in a similar direction, other cranks, like the
former, but bent at the ends, in manner of hooks, as shewn in that part of
the section lettered K. By pulling any of these hooked cranks downwards,
the horizontal rods 1, 2, 3, 4, are partly turned round in their bearings (not
shown in the Drawing), together with the cranks j, k, l, m, thereby giving a
downward motion to the vertical rods (extending up the posts or stems A, B,)
to which they are connected, and to the cranks e, f, g, h, and thus the cranks
e,f,gh, give a corresponding motion to the rods a, b, c, d, whereby the rings
or symbols E, F, G, H, attached to those rods, are turned from their horizontal
positions (shewn at G, F, on the left side of post A,) to their vertical positions,
as shewn at E, H, of the same. The depression of the hooked cranks (shewn
at K, in section), attached to the sets of horizontal shafts 1, 2, 3, 4, is effected
by means of four sets of vertical rods running through guides, in which rods
there are formed narrow slits or long eyes, the upper parts of which bear upon
the upper portions of the hooked cranks, and which vertical rods are jointed
at their lower ends to forty keys, divided into four sets, which sets are, in the
sectional Drawing, distinguished from each other by the numbers 1 to 10 on
the vertical rods above. The four sets of keys operate upon the symbols, which
indicate units, ten, hundreds, and thousands, and are shewn under their
distinctive heads in the right-hand half of the Drawing. These keys work
similarly to the keys of a pianoforte, and have springs underneath (not shewu
in tho Drawing) for returning them and the vertical rods above into their
original positions. Any number of these keys being pressed downwards by the
person working the telegraph, will cause the vertical rods connected to them
to slide downwards through their guides, and so, by means of their narrow slits
or long eyes, pull downwards the corresponding booked cranks, which,
operating upon their respective horizontal shafts 1, 2, 3, 4, cause their corre-
sponding symbols to assume the vertical position (as previously described). For
example, the rod 5 being depressed (by its two narrow slits or long eyes bearing
upon the hooked cranks of the horizontal shafts 1 and 4), acts upon both these

page_text: shafts simultaneously, and thereby exhibits the symbols E and H, which
represent the number 5, but nevertheless allows either of these shafts to be
turned by its own proper crank and vertical rod (1 or 4) independently,
without producing any reaction upon the rod No. 5, because, although by
their downward motion the vertical rods by means of their slits or long eyes
act upon the cranks, yet the downward motion of the cranks have no cor-
responding action upon the rods, in consequence of their having nothing
to bear upon, but merely sinking through the open narrow slits or long
eye before described; therefore, by having a sufficient number of hooked
cranks attached to the sets of horizontal shafts (1, 2, 3, 4,) and also rods with
slits or eyes to correspond with the several keys below, so that by their single
or combined netion they may give corresponding movement to the symbols
above, to indicate any one or more of the numerals correspondent with their
respective keys below; any required number, whether simple or compound, may
at pleasure bo exhibited by the operator pressing down the proper or particular
key or keys. But in addition to this machinery, I have also invented a method
of operating on any number of the keys needful to exhibit any required number
of the symbols by one rapid movement, and of returning or discharging them
in the like instantaneous manner in readiness for another operation. This will
be better understood by the partial view in Figure 2, where the parts are much
enlarged. n, n, are the keys; p, p, two of the rods, shewing the narrow slits
or long eyes; and r, r, two of the hooked cranks just described. The ends of
the keys (n, n,) are made hollow, and within them work small rods or sliders
(8, s,) having handles q, q, attached thereto; these rods or sliders have hooks
o, o, fixed below, and stops or projections t, t, above thein. u is a long hori-
zontal bar and double lever (shewn (u) in the section), which double lever
moves in centres at u, v, and is drawn down by the extended lever and handle
w (Figure 1); x is a similar bar or lever placed in a vertical position, with a
bandle y, and turning on its centres at z, z. The operation of expressing a
signal is as follows:-The handles 9, 9. Figure 2, corresponding to the
numbers or symbols to be exhibited, being drawn forward by sliding them
out of the hollow keys n, n, the hooks o, o, catch underneath the bar u, u,
(which is kept up by a spring not shewn in the Drawing), at the same time
that the pins or projections t, t, bring forward the other bar x, x, then by
depressing the extended lever and handle w, shewn in section, Figure 1, the
key or keys so drawn out are carried down simultaneously, and by means
of the cranks and vertical and horizontal rods before described, produce at
one and the same moment the movement of the required rings or other
symbols above. After these have been exhibited the proper time the lever and

page_text: handle (u) is allowed to spring upwards, and carry with it the keys that have
been used, and the bar x, x, is then to be pushed back by its handle y, thereby
discharging the hooks o, o, from the bar u, u, and the whole is made to resume
its original position ready for the next operation. Precisely the same arrange-
ment of parts is attached to each of the four sets of ten keys shewn on the
right-hand side of the station-house, with the difference that there the keys
denoting thousands are made to work the rings or symbols on the right-hand
side of the post D, those denoting hundreds work the symbols on the left of D,
and the tens are worked on the right of C, and units on its left, so that the
person at the next station downwards may read the figures in their proper
order; for enample, the symbols exhibited in the Drawing from the posts C
and D, will be read by a person at the next station (to which the arrow points,)
as 8, 3, 5, 6.
My claims of Invention in respect to this double telegraph are as follows,
videlicet:-First, the construction and general arrangements of the arms and
symbols, as shewn upon the posts A, B, C, D, and the machinery connected
therewith, as shewn in section of two posts A and B, as far as the letters
m, l, j, k, j, k, l, m, whether such posts, arms, and symbols and their machinery
bo used separately or in combination one with another, or with others of them,
as before described, or acted upon by any other machinery for telegraph
purposes; secondly, the construction and general arrangement of the remaining
machinery, as shown in that part of the section marked K, consisting of hori-
zontal rods or shafts, with cranks and vertical rods with slits or narrow eyes,
and keys or levers, and double levers with horizontal bars, as before described.
Such machinery may be employed for effecting the combinations of any other
number or description of symbols to which its movements are applicable; I do
not, therefore, limit myself to the number of parts or the position of the hooked
cranks and their adjuncts; and, thirdly, I claim the employment of doublo
telegraphs at one station, when the working parts thereof, such as I have
herein-before described, are brought so together by rods or other suitable con-
nexions as to allow of one person freely and conveniently operating upon both.
Drawing No. 9 represents a telegraph of a totally different description to those
already described, and it is constructed and carried into operation as follows:-
A, A, is a pipe, formed of metal or other suitable materials, filled with water,
and extending from one station to another; the terminations of which pipe are
formed into the shape of inverted syphons (B, B,) containing mercury for
balancing the pressure of water at each end when rendered unequal by any
intermediate irregularities or by any difference in the levels of the stations.
When the stations are upon the same level the mercury may be dispensed

page_text: with. C, C, are two small cylinders with open ends, which are fixed upon the
extremities of the pipe A, A, and are fitted with plungers or pistons (a, a,)
moving freely therein. These pistons rest upon the mercury (or upon water
when mercury is not applied), and have piston rods fixed upon them, jointed at
their upper ends by radius and parallel rods (for keeping them in vertical
position) to the levers D, D, turning on fulcrums at b, b, which levers carry
pencils or markers at their other ends (c, c). E, E, are two large cylinders of
precisely similar size, made of wood or other suitable materials, to be covered
with paper, to be replaced as need may require, which cylinders are made to
revolve vertically in centres (j, j,) by bands or straps running over pullics
fixed upon their axles, and extending to other pullies moved by clock work
contained in the boxes F, F. These cylinders are so placed in respect to the
levers D, D, that the pencils or markers fixed therein (at c, c,) should impinge
with their points against the papers with which the cylinders are covered with
sufficient force or pressure to leave tracings of their movements thercon. A
proper degree of pressure upon the pencils is produced and kept up by spiral
springs enclosed in small tubes attached to the ends (c, c,) of levers D, D; upon
the lower end of the one and upon the upper end of the other of the cylinders
E, E, are fixed cogged or ratchet wheels (e, e,) and upon the levers D, D, are
jointed rods with clicks or catches (d, d,) having a parallel motion with the
pistons (a, a,) and piston rods by means of the connecting rods f, f. h, h, are
spiral springs connected to the fixed beams i, i, and levers D, 'D, to return the
clicks or catches into the ratchets so as to stop the revolutions of cylinders
E, E, when the telegraph is not in use. These cylinders, together with their
pullies and clockwork, are fixed in frames (G, G,) so as to be moved higher or
lower at pleasure, to accommodate the motions of the pencils at c, c, to any
given lines marked thereon, in case any expansion or contraction of the fluids
should at any time occur in the pipe A, A. A series of horizontal lines aro
ruled or marked upon the paper to be used, each line being appropriated to
some particular numeral or letter of the alphabet, or other agreed signification,
and papers of precisely similar size, ruled precisely alike with the same
number of lines, and at equal distances, are to be fixed upon both the cylinders.
These horizontal lines 1, 2, 3, &c., may express the numerals from 1 to 9, and
a cypher or the letters of the alphabet, A, B, C, &c. The numerals or letters
or other significations assigned to the horizontal lines on the paper used upon
one cylinder must be reversed in order upon the horizontal lines of the other,
and then by marking with a zig-zag or cross any of the lines (by the pencil
at c) on one of the cylinders, the like numerals or letters or other significations
will be simultaneously marked, and so denoted upon the other cylinder

page_text: The action of the telegraph is as follows:-The pencil at c on the left-hand
cylinder E being moved upwards by means of the lever D, carries with it, and
consequently detaches the click or catch (d) from the ratchet wheel (e) below,
and at the same time causes the piston a in the cylindor c to rise, producing
thereby precisely the reverse action on the right-hand cylinder E, by means of
the spiral spring (h), and lever D, and click d, and ratchet wheel (e), by which
both the cylinders E, E, are set in motion by the clockwork at F, F, as before
explained; and so the operator on one cylinder, with the pencil or marker at c,
marking with a cross or zig-zag first one horizontal line and then another
upon his cylinder, a reversed fac simile of such tracings will be at the same
time copied on the paper encircling the other cylinder.
My claim of Invention in respect to this telegraph consists in the adaptation
and general arrangement of the machinery above described in connection with
a tube of water laid underground from station to station, for the purpose of
transmitting, indicating, and registering telegraphic symbols or signals.
Drawing No. 10 exhibits another species of telegraphic apparatus, the com-
munications by which are effected by means of a tube or pipe of water under-
ground. In the Drawing, A, A, A, A, A, A, represents the tube or pipe of
water laid a sufficient depth underground to protect it from frost, and extend-
ing from one principal station B, where the parts are shewn in section, to
another principal distant station C, but having two intermediate stations D, E.
F is a large forcing and exhausting pump or cylinder (shewn in section), which
is fixed upon the termination of the main pipe A, A, A, A, A, A, with which
it communicates, and which cylinder is partly filled with water (as shewn in
section at station B), to be pressed upon by a piston (a), working freely in said
cylinder; 6 is its piston rod, running through a fixed guide (c), to give such
rod a vertical motion; (d) is a lever extending and working through a slit in
the piston rod upon a fulcrum (e) upon the beam (f); G is a similar pump
or cylinder to F', similarly affixed upon and communicating with the other end
of pipe (A, A, A, A, A, A,) at station C, with similar adjuncts thereto, against
the water in which (from the tube or pipe A, A, A, A, A, A,) the piston of G
in like manner presses; H, H, H, H, are four small cylinders fixed upon and
connected with the tube or pipo A, A, A, A, A, A, at the several stations
B, C, D, E, into each of which small cylinders the water from that pipe rises.
The higher or lower level of such water in the small cylinders II, H, H, II, is
produced and regulated and varied by the downward and upward motions of
the pistons in either of the forcing and exhausting pumps or cylinders F and G.
Upon the surface of the water in these small cylinders H, H, H, H, there are
four floats or pistons moving very freely therein, with float or piston rods to

page_text: each, running through guides not shewn in the Drawing. Upon these floats
or piston rods are fixed four cogged racks working into four small cogged
pinions, which, by means of their axles, communicate a circular motion to four
indicators or pointers fixed on the extremities thereof, for working around
circular dials or faces (I, I, I, I,) with the numerals, letters of the alphabet,
or other symbols painted thereon (in manner of clock faces) at equal distances
from each other. The dials or faces at all the stations, and as well the numerals,
letters, or other symbols upon them, are precisely alike, that is to say, fac-
similies one of another, and the indicators or pointers are so fixed (on the
axles of the cogged pinions) that when the floats or pistons rest upon the water
in the tubes H, H, H, H, at one level, such indicators or pointers respectively
point to the like number, letter, or other symbol upon all the other dials or faces.
A single float or piston, and piston rod and rack, and pinion and pointer are
shewn in section of the single cylinder H at principal station B. The action
of this apparatus is as follows:-The tube or pipe A, A, A, A, A, A, is to be
filled with water so as to rise into and nearly fill the forcing and exhausting
pumps or cylinders F and G, so that their water-tight pistons shall rest upon
the water therein, either of such pistons being rendered stationary by its lever
or handle (d) being fixed (which may be by a click or detent, or any other
convenient means), and the other piston in the pump or cylinder at the other
station being put in downward or upward motion by its lever or handle (d),
such motion will simultaneously raise or lower the level of the water equally
in the several small cylinders H, H, H, H, before mentioned, and consequently
give a similar and correspondent motion to all the indicators or pointers at the
several stations by means of the floats or pistons, rods, racks, and pinions before
described.
My claim of Invention in respect of these means of communicating in-
telligence by signals consists in the general arrangement of the machinery and
apparatus shewn in the Drawing (No. 10), in connexion with the method of
producing variations of level in tubes or cylinders of water fixed at various
stations of the line or lines of pipe laid underground from one station to
another, or others, by means of large forcing and exhausting pumps or cylinders
so placed as to operate from any principal station upon a series of indicators
or pointers moving upon a series of dials or faces similar to those of clocks, so
as to refer to and denote figures, letters, and symbols, painted on such dials
in any required order, at any number of distant stations, for telegraphic
purposes.
Drawing No. 11 represents another description of telegraphic apparatus for
making signals. This apparatus operates by means of air, or of water, or of

page_text: gas, forced or caused to flow through tubes or pipes laid underground from
station to station. A, B, C, D, represents four lengths of tubes or pipes
extending from principal station E to another principal station at F, having
two intermediate stations at G and II; K and I are two vessels into which
the extremities of the pipes A, B, C, D, are tightly fitted; I and J are two
air forcers, made similar to gasometers (but any other description of air forcer
of sufficient power will answer the purpose), which are made to communicate
with the vessels K and L, by means of the two pipes M and N, and con-
tiguous to which vessels (K and L) are fixed, in the tubes or pipes A, B, C, D,
stop-cocks or valves (e, f, g, h, p, q, r, s.) These stop cocks or valves are
operated upon so as to be respectively opened or closed by keys, rods, and
levers, such as described particularly in Drawing No. 12; and that part of
my Specification which refers to that Drawing, i, i, i, i, represents four vertical
tubes with their upper ends open, fixed upen, and communicating with the
several tubes A, B, C, D; contiguous to and above which tubes are suspended
from bell-mouthed vessels (j.j.j.j.) by means of rods (k, k, k, k,) jointed to
scale beams or levers, and working upon and supported by uprights (1, 1, 1, 1)
nearly upon the balance, but so that such bell-mouthed vessels shall have a
slight preponderance over small weights suspended at the opposite ends of
the beams. Upon the rods k, k, k, k, which are made to extend upwards,
above the said beams, are fixed balls m, m, m, m, or other symbols, as, for
example, the numerals 1, 2, 3, 4, as before described in this Specification, for
representing those numbers, and for representing by their combination the
bigher digits and the cypher. Similar sets of apparatus, consisting of vertical
open-mouthed tubes, bell-mouthed vessels, and balls, representing symbols or
figures, are shewn also at stations G, H, F, as connected in a similar manner
with the tubes A, B, C, D. The action of this apparatus is as follows:-
Supposing the two air forcers I and J to be charged with air, and the cocks or
valves e, f, g, h, p, q, r, s, in the tubes or pipes A, B, C, D, closed by their
corresponding spring keys, and the bell-mouthed vessels j. j. j. j, suspended so
as to almost to rest upon the open vertical tubes i, i, i, i, then if the two
central cocks or valves f, g, at station E, are opened by the operator pressing
upon the spring keys corresponding therewith, the air will rush from the
vessel I, through the pipe M into the vessel K, and into the central horizontal
pipes B, C, and also through the two central and vertical open-mouthed pipes
i, i, at each of the similar sets of apparatus connected therewith at the several
stations E, G, H, F, which currents of air blowing underneath the two
central bell-mouthed vessels in each set, will cause them immediately to rise,
lifting with them the rods, with their balls or other symbols above, as shewn

page_text: in Drawing, in which situations they will be retained as long as the currents
of air from below are allowed to continue, but immediately such currents of air
are stopped by suffering the keys to spring back into their places, and thereby
closing the cocks above, the bell-mouthed vessels will resume their former
positions by their slight preponderance before mentioned. In like manner may
the series of bell-mouthed vessels suspended over the vertical open-mouthed
tubes i, i, i, i, connected with. the horizontal tube A, or those suspended over
the tubes i, i, i, i, connected with the tube D, be raised or lowered at pleasure
by opening or closing the cocks or valves e and h, as before mentioned; and
at station F a similar action may be produced upon the bell-mouthed vessels
at the several stations E, G, H, F, by opening or closing any of the stop-
cocks p, q, r, s, by the keys connected with them.
Another mode by which I propose to exhibit signals at any required number
of stations by the same apparatus slightly varied, is means of inflammable gas.
For example, supposing I, J, to be two gasometers, filled with gas instead of
air, and the bell-mouthed vessels j, j, j, j, and their adjuncts entirely taken away
from the four series of vertical open-mouthed pipes i, i, i, i, and that instead
thereof an equal number of gas burners fitted thereon (shewn in the Drawing
at n,n, n, n, in dotted lines), and the cocks or valves e, f, g, h, and p, q, r, s, so
made or adjusted as not to close entirely by the action of the keys below, but to
allow sufficient gas always to pass through them and the burners, that when
ignited they shall exhibit very small flames, it is obvious that pressing down the
keys, and thereby enlarging the openings in one or more of the said cocks or
valves, so as to admit of an increased current of gas, any one or more of such
flames can be enlarged at pleasure, and again at pleasure diminished to their
previous limit by allowing such key or keys to return to its or their original
position, and thereby reducing the supply of gas. The production of full and
large flames it will be seen will correspond with the elevation of balls or
symbols, expressive of figures, as before described, by the action of air, so as
singly to indicate the numbers 1 to 4, and by their combinations the higher
digits and the cypher.
Another method of applying this machinery is by causing water to flow
through pipes from tanks of water (substituted in place of the air holders
or gasometers I and J); but which tanks are to be placed sufficiently
above the level of pipes A, B, C, D, to produce jets or fountains through.
the vertical and open-mouthed pipes i, i, ii, (shewn in the Drawing at
0, 0, 0, 0, in dotted lines), when any of the cocks or valves e, f, g, h, or
P, q, r, s, are opened, and which jets or fountains are caused to cease-playing by
the cocks or valves being closed. The mode of operating is precisely similar

page_text: to the methods by air or gas before mentioned, and the jets or fountains singly
indicate the numerals 1, 2, 3, 4, and by their combinations the higher digits
and the cypher.
My claim of Invention in respect of these several means of making signals
consists in the general arrangement of the machinery and apparatus shewn in
the Drawing No. 11, in connection with the methods of producing and
exhibiting symbols or signals by the use of air, and of inflammable gas, and of
water, as I have described. I do not, however, limit myself to the number
I may employ of such underground tubes or pipes and their adjuncts, for the
purpose of exhibiting a greater or less number of symbols at one operation.
Drawing No. 12 represents a mode of making and communicating signals
by means of sounds made to pass through the tubes underground with the
assistance of currents of air. Figure 1: A, A, represents a tube or pipe,
composed of metal or other suitablo materials; B represents an enlarged part
thereof, or other air-tight vessel of convenient shape connected therewith;
C represents a pair of double bellows (any other air forcer may be used), from
which is extended a pipe or tube (D), made to pass air-tight through the
lower to the upper part of the vessel B, and to have the end of it closed there.
a, b, c, d, are four horns or other suitable wind instruments for producing
sound, the smaller open ends of which pass into and are fixed to the pipe or
tube D; e, f, g, h, are four stop-cocks or valves, fixed in the smaller ends of
these horns or other wind instruments, to the moveable parts of which cocks
or valves are affixed levers (i, i, i, i,) for opening and closing their passages
by the downward and upward motion thereof. To these levers vertical rods
are jointed and suspended, and made to run or pass through air-tight stuffing
boxes, fixed in the lower part of B, and extending to four keys (j,j, j.j.)
below (which keys are provided underneath with springs, not shewn in the
Drawing), acting against their under surfaces for the purpose of bringing
them back into their original position, and thereby closing such cocks or
valves by the said rods and levers after they have been compressed and
opened. E represents another air forcer, which may be formed similar to a
gasometer, or double bellows, or other description of air-forcing machine,
connected to the hind part of the vessel B by the pipe k, in which pipe k
there is a stop-cock or valve at l, for admitting a copious and independent
current of air from the vessel E, through the pipe k and the vessel B, and the
tube or pipe A, A, for the purpose of assisting the conveyance of any sounds
produced within the vessel B, from said vessel B at one place or station,
through the tubes A, A, to some other place or station at a distance.
Figure 2 (Drawing No. 12) represents a similar description of apparatus

page_text: for the same purposes. The parts of this apparatus that are similar or of
similar use are lettered the same as in Figure 1. In this apparatus there is
in vessel B, in place of the horns or other instruments and their adjuncts
(described in and in relation to Figure 1), a substitution of four bells or gongs
(m, m, m, m) with four clappers or strikers (n, n, n, n) suspended and fixed
to four horizontal rods or axles, passing through air-tight stuffing boxes at
0, 0, 0, 0, in the side of the vessel B. To the outer end of these rods or axles
are fixed small levers i, i, i, i, to which are jointed and suspended vertical rods,'
attached and jointed to the spring keys (j,j, j,j,) below. This apparatus is
merely another means of producing sounds for the purposes of signals. The
action of both contrivances is as follows:-Any one or more of the keys
(.j.j.j.) being depressed, causes, upon the method adopted, shewn in Figure 1,
one or more of the cocks or valves to be opened, allowing the air or wind
produced from the bellows or other air forcer C, to be driven through the
tube D to the horn or horns or other wind instruments (a, b, c, d,) corre-
spondent to the key or keys depressed, producing thereby certain sounds,
which, with the assistance of the independent current of air from the air
forcer E, admitted by opening the stop-cock 2, will be carried along the pipe
A, A. In like manner, upon the method adopted, shewn in Figure 2, the
stop-cock or valve in the pipe k being opened, there will be a similar rush
and flow of air through the vessel B and the pipe A, A, and any one or moro
of the bells or gongs (m, m, m, m,) being struck by the clappers (n, n, n, n,)
by the depression of the appropriate key or keys (j, j, j, j,) and the consequent
action of their adjuncts, will cause the sound of them respectively to be carried
along the pipe A, A, by which sounds numbers may be denoted by counting
any and every distinct blast or sound produced by the largest sized horn or
other wind instrument, and any and every distinct sound of the largest bell
or gong may, for example, denote so many thousands, and of the second sizes"
hundreds, third sizes tens, and of the fourth sizes units. It will be obvious
that a fifth horn or other suitable wind instrument, or a fifth bell or gong of
larger size, with corresponding similar machinery, would serve to indicate in a
similar manner tens of thousands, and so of any further additions.
My claim of Invention in respect to these means of producing signals consists
in the arrangement of the apparatus described, and in the methods also described
of producing sounds or noises within an enclosed part of the apparatus, so as
that such sounds or noises may, by artificial and independent currents of air,
produced by any description of air-forcing apparatus, as before described, be
by such currents of air carried forward through underground tubes from
station to station for telegraphic purposes.
:

page_text: Drawing No. 13 represents a cheap method of forming tubes or pipes of
wood for telegraphic purposes by means of a series of rectangular lengths or
pieces, each hollowed out with a semicircular cavity lengthwise on one of the
flat sides thereof, so that one piece being placed upon another a circular cavity
from one end to the other is left within them. These pieces are made
perfectly smooth, and to slide accurately upon and fit tightly one to the other
or others of them by dovetailing them together, as shown in section, Figure 2,
and they are jointed together, as shown at c, c, Figure 1. Upon the ex-
tremities of the flat sides of each length, opposite to the semicircular cavities,
iron studs or projections (a, a,) are fixed, which are to be drawn together
tightly by screws (one of which is shewn at 6), so as to bring the ends of such
lengths or pieces into close contact; previously, however, to any of the pieces
being fitted permanently together, their entire inner surfaces and ends are to
be well coated with a solution of caoutchouc or other suitable luting or cement,
for the purpose of rendering them, when put together, perfectly air and water-
tight. Figure 2 represents a cross section of a single tube or pipe so formed.
Figure 3 represents a cross section of a double pipe formed of three pieces, the
centre piece having two such semicircular cavities, and the others one semi-
circular cavity each, the whole being dovetailed together and fitted as before
described. Figure 4 exhibits a cross section of another double pipe, but which
is formed of two pieces, having each two such semicircular cavities side by side,
and being fitted together in the same way, but with three dovetails. Figure 5
shews a cross section of a quadruple pipe, formed of three pieces, on the
principles of Figures 3 and 4 combined, and fitted together in a similar manner.
My claim of Invention in respect to wooden tubes or pipes, as above
constructed, is limited to their application for telegraphic purposes.
Having herein described my improvements in telegraphic apparatus, and in
the means of communicating intelligence by signals, I would have it understood
that I do not limit myself to the use of apparatus and machinery and symbols
of any particular sizes or dimensions, as it is obvious that these must be varied
according to to circumstances and the distance the stations may be placed
apart from each other; I would also observe, that I do not limit myself to the
use or employment of any particular materials for forming the various parts of
these telegraphic apparatus. The machinery and apparatus generally may be
of iron, or of iron and wood, and the bearings of brass or gun metal, or any
other suitable materials. I likewise would have it understood, that I lay no
claim to the Invention or use of any one of the various parts named in this my
Specification separately. I have thought it not necessary to state in what
manner the symbols indicating simple or compound numbers are to be rendered

page_text: into letters, syllables, words, or sentences, as the use of numerals signified by
flags and otherwise for telegraphic purposes is well known, and there have
been many vocabularies and telegraphic dictionaries compiled and published,
shewn how a series of numbers indicated by signals may be appropriated.
My great object has been the production and exhibition of symbols expressive
of numbers, single or compound, in a more simple, ready, and intelligible
imanner than hitherto, and of symbols for night operations as well as for day.
The mode of using simple symbols or simple numerals, and of producing by
them higher numbers, has hitherto been almost exclusively limited to the
system of mutation, which is tedious and more or less complicated. The system
I have adopted, on the contrary, is that of combining such symbols so as that
with little practice any compound number may be read off at one view in most
cases by simple addition. In conclusion, I would add that I do not confine
myself to the precise and exact arrangement or construction of the several
parts named in this my Specification, so that the main principles and methods
of action be adhered to.
In witness whereof, I, the said William Henry James, have hereunto set
my hand and seal, this Twenty-second day of June, in the year of our
W. H. JAMES. (LS.)
AND BE IT REMEMBERED, that on the Twenty-second day of June,
in the year of our Lord 1838, the aforesaid William Henry James came
before our said Lady the Queen in Her Chancery, and acknowledged the
Specification aforesaid, and all and every thing therein contained and specified,
in form above written. And also the Specification aforesaid was stamped
according to the tenor of the Statute made for that
purpose.
Inrolled the Twenty-second day of June, in the year of our Lord One
thousand eight hundred and thirty-eight.