LECTU RES
ON TIIE
EI IECTTRO-M IAGNETIC TELECGlAPH,
WVITH AN
IIISTORICAL ACCOUNT OF ITS RISE AND PROGRESS,
(T).NIMNN, A LiST OF THE NUMBER ()F
TELEGIRAPI{IC LINES OF TIE WORLID).
ILLUSTRATED BY
FIF'TY-SIX WOOD CUTS AND TWVO COPPER-PLATE ENGRAVINGS.
[~itl) aa11  1ppenbix,
C(,ONTIAININ G THEi DECISIONS OF JUDGES WOODBURY ANI)
ICANE, IN THE CELEBRATED TELEGRAPHIC TRIALS.
BY LAURENCE TURNBULL, M. D.,
LEC TURER ON TECHNICAL CHEMISTRY AT THE FRANKLIN INSTITUTE
O)F THE STATE OF PENNSYLVAANIA.
P H I L A D E L P H I A:
R. W. BARNARD, PRINTER.
1852.




Entered, according to the Act of Congress, in the year 1852, by LAURENCE TURNBULL, in the Clerk's Office
of the District Court of the United States, for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.




INTROD UCTIO  N.
The Electric Telegraph is now, and has been, exciting a great deal of
interest over all the enlightened parts not only of this country, but over
the world; no one can view the extensive lines, and hear of and see its
wonderful, nay, magical effects, without a strong desire to become better
informed of its history and mode of operation. Like every other science,
it has a history, a beginning, and a gradual advancing to its present perfect state. It has required a long series of years to develope and perfect
it; it is not the invention of one man or any set of men, nor of one nation,
but of Iany nations, each adding their mite to the noble structure.
Its history is based upon two of the most interesting of the physical
sciences, that of electricity and magnetism; had not these sciences been
fully investigated, and thousands of laborers spent centuries upon them,
we should never have seen an electric telegraph; had not such men as
(Ersted, Ampere, Arago, Faraday, and our own Franklin, spent'their
days in experimenting, and nights in studying, we should have never
reaped the rich reward of their labors.
In this country it becomes us to be proud of the electro-magnetic telegraph, having in operation a greater number of miles than all the known
world; and yet many of our people are as little acquainted with it, as if
they never knew of the name of the electro-magnetic telegraph, although
its lines of iron wire pass before their very doors, and extend even into
the most distant wilds of our country.
It was this knowledge, coupled with a strong love for its kindred branches
of science, that induced me to select it as the subject of a course of lectures
before the Franklin Institute of this city, for the Session of 1850 and
1851, and it received the approbation of the Committee of Instruction of
that useful Institution.
The interest and attention with which the subject was there received,
induced me, after the conclusion of my coufse, to continue the investigation of the subject, and finding there was no work at that time in the
English language on the electro-magnetic telegraph, with the exception
of Mr. Vail's, which is now out of print and not to be had in this city,
I concluded either to translate the work of Dr. Schelling, published in
September, 1850, from the German, or the work of Abbe Moigno, published in French; but as there had been many new and important matters




scattered throughout the many Journals devoted to the physical sciences,
and as in the United States, the subject has been brought to its most
perfect state, I considered it better to edit a work, and not translate one.
I have received from the operators and proprietors of our telegraphic
lines, every assistance, by the use of drawings, apparatus, and advice,
and am, therefore, under many obligations to them; I have also the pleasure of being able to give a correct list of the number of telegraphic
lines of the world, for which I am in part indebted to the work of Dr.
Schelling; and the second edition of the work of Abbe Moigno, 1852, for
telegraphic lines in Europe; and to E. Cornell, Esq., President of the Erie
Telegraph Company, New York, for the principal information in regard
to the extent of the telegraphic lines in the United States; I have also received valuable assistance in the materials of the work, from the interesting trials which have taken place between Messrs. Morse and House, and
also between Messrs. Morse and Bain, which trials have caused the historical part of the electric telegraph to be very completely investigated, and
every work upon the subject of electricity and magnetism, or that treated.of telegraphing, has been obtained from the libraries of our own country,
and many of the important works found in Europe.
The French works contain the original productions of Ampere, Arago,
also those of the distinguished Germans, Schweigger, Ohm, Steinheil, Fechner, and of Gauss and WNeber, with the masterly productions of the lamented CErsted. of Copenhagen, the discoverer of the first link of that
beautiful chain of the reciprocal action of electric and magnetic phenomena. Nor can I omit the great English physicists, Wheatstone, Cook,
Daniel, Grove, Davy, and Faraday, whose writings and experiments have
added much that is new and important to our knowledge of the subject
of electricity and magnetism.
But it is to an American experimenter, Prof. Henry, that we are indebted
for the corner stone by which the electro-magnetic telegraph received the
most important and completing part, namely: the use of a long circuit of
wvire, the proper form of wire, battery, and magnet to be employed, and those
masterly experiments of his which surprised the scientific world, and
made his name known throughout Europe and his native land, as one
worthy of being honored; it is to the joint labors of Prof. Henry, and Profs.
Morse and Gale, that we are'indebted for one of the best forms of telegraph
the world has ever produced.
And still more recent is the most interesting of all the forms of telegraph, that of Mr. House, which, so far as I am aware, has never been
described before so much in detail, which will add a new laurel to the
brow of the American people, and which for beauty of design and utility,
will strike at once even those uninitiated in the mysteries of electric tele



graphing, by placing in their hands communications from their friends,
thousands of miles off, in the course of a few minutes; a message printed
in Roman letters, which requires no translation. This wonderful piece
of mechanism is worthy of the study of those interested in the physical sciences, as it combines principles of mechanics, as well as the reciprocal
action of electric and magnetic currents.
I have in the succeeding pages, arranged my subject under three heads,
namely: Common, or statical electricity applied to telegraphing; second,
Galvanic or chemical electricity; and, third, Electro-magnetism applied
to telegraphing.
In an Appendix I have given an outline of the trial in the case of French
vs. Rogers, with the decision of Judge Kane; also the decision of Judge
Woodbury, in the case of Smith vs. Downing, tried at Boston, 1851.
In regard to rival claims of the first discovery of the electro-magnetic
telegraph, I have endeavored to follow the rule of its first publication, as
for instance, although Steinheil's telegraph is stated to have been in operation in the early part of the year 1837, still there was no published account of it until July, 1837, so that I have placed Prof. Morse's as the
first electro-magnetic telegraph, his uli     ng in April, 1837.  I1
1851, during the publication of my articles in the Journal of the Franklin
Institute, I received a work styled "Bo ftp      h,"  a popularJ
account of it, published byMir. Daniel Davis, of Boston; but although in
the English, it does not contain all the important points connected with electric telegraphing.  I have also received the wvork of Brocknan, published
in lrcany, and the original papers of ~Sieens, of Berlin, presented
to the Academy of Science of ~aris, from all of which I have culled whatever I thoughbt would be useful in a work devoted to the subject of the
telegraph. To show how much the telegraph is employed, I quote the folowing short article from one of our public Journals:
"Telegraphing, in this country, has reached that point, by its great stretch
of wires and great facilities for transmission of communications, as to
almost rival the mail in the quantity of matter sent over it. It has become
indispensable to many business transactions, and an interruption of the
communication between cities is severely felt by the business community.
Nearly seven hundred messages, exclusive of those for the press, were
sent in one day over the Morse Albany line. The Bain line at Boston,
a few days after, sent and received five hundred communications, exclusive of reports for the press. These facts show how important an agent
the magnetic telegraph has become in the transmission of business communications. It is every day coming more and more into use, and every
day adding to its power to be useful."
September, 1852.








CONTENTS.
PAGE.
LECTURE I.
On the definition of the term Telegraph; conveying intelligence by signals; description of a Telegraph universally applicable; Amonton's experiments; Chappe's first
Telegraph; Lord George Murray's plan; French Semaphores; Captain Pasley's
Polygrammatic Telegraph; Chateau's Telegraph; defects of ordinary Telegraphs;
definition of an Electric Telegraph; list of experiments on the transmission of electricity through iron and copper wire, water, and soil; number of Telegraphs from
1820 to 1850; Telegraphs of Lesage, Lomond, Reusser, and Salva; Cavello's experiments; Telegraph of Ronalds, Dyer, and Haighton; most important phenomena
and laws of Galvanism; also, the principal forms of Voltaic apparatus; Ohm's law
and experiments on the velocity of the electric current,...
LECTURE II.
Application of Galvanism to Telegraphing; Telegraph of Scemmering; Cox, Schweigger's modification; Electro-Chemical of R. Smith; Alexander Bain; S. F. B. Morse;
A. Bain and Robert Smith; Moigno's notice of Bain's Electro-Chemical Telegraph,  14
LECTURE III.
A brief account of Electro-Magnetism; important discovery of (Ersted; facts discovered by Ampere and Arago, of France, Davy, Sturgeon, and Faraday, in England;
Professor Henry, then of Albany, New York; Professor Moll, of Germany; MagnetoElectricity; Faraday's researches; form of Helix; Ampere's theory; experiments of
Dr. Hope; Nobili and Antinori apparatus of Pixii; Sexton's (of Philadelphia) improvements in Magneto-Electric Machines; modifications by Clark, of London, and
Professor Page, of the United States; Sinstedem suggestions, use by Dugardin for
Telegraphic purposes; Leuz's account of the re-action of induced currents,  26
LECTURE IV.
Electro-Magnetic Telegraphs; Telegraph of Ampere, Barlow, Triboaillet, de Saint
Ameand, Fechner, Ritchie, Schelling; Henry's experiments; Gauss and Weber's
Telegraph; experiments of Messrs. Taquin and Ettieyhausen; Morse; historical
account of his first Telegraph; list of Morse Patents,...      37
LECTURE V.
Morse continued: form of magnet used; battery and number of cups; local circuit; telegraphic characters; daily performance; errors committed; mode of insulation; wire
employed; method of ascertaining a break; methods to obviate the disastrous consequences that result from violent electrical action during thunder storms; Wheatstone's experiments on the velocity of electricity; Wheatstone and Cooke's Telegraph; first Telegraph; form of battery, local circuit, and alarum; second patent;
Nleedle Telegraph; expenses of constructing; cost per mile; American patent,  52




viii.
PAGE.
LECTURE VI.
Whl1eatstone's third patent, called by him his Electro-Magnetic Telegraph; on the
construction of Telegraphs used in England; form of posts; lightning conductors;
batteries; number of wires and number of miles; cost of Telegraph for railway companies; statement of receipts and disbursements; interesting trial in connexion with
Wheatstone's Telegraph; Steinheil's Telegraph; his experiments, demonstrating
the conducting power of the earth; form of inductor or excitor; form of magnets
einployed; number of wires employed by various Telegraphs,.             62
LECTURE VII.'Steinheil's Telegraph, continued; connecting wire; apparatus for generating the galvanic current; Telegraphic alphabet; the application of this apparatus to Telegraphic
communication; Printing Telegraph of Alfred Vail, and Alexander's Telegraph,    74
LECTURE VIII.
Davy's N\eedle and Lamp Telegraph; Masson's Magneto-Electric Telegraph; Amyot's
proposed Telegraph; Edward Davy's Telegraph, employing the decomposing action
Of the galvanic current; local battery; local circuit; and the use of electro-magneti:un; Bain's Printing Electro-Magnetic Telegraph; Sturgeon's Electro-Magnetic'Telegraph,.....                                87
LECTURE IX.
IRo)yal E. House's, Printing Telegraph; notice of the life of the inventor; use of one
wire; mode of insulation; size of posts; composing machine; printing machine; mode
()f transmitting a message; number of miles of lines, and specimen of printing; notice of the Submarine Telegraph, and the modification of the House machine, by.Jacob Brett, called Brett's Printing Telegraph, with the improvements of \Nott,
itatcher, Reid, Mapple, and Brown, in Electric Telegraphs,..         96
LECTURE X.
Ilmprovenlents in Electric Telegraphs by Barlow & Foster, C. F. Johnson, Jolln
I,ewis Recardo, Edward R. Roe; improvements in machine for operating or matipulating Morse's Electro-Magnetic Telegraph; Shepherd's improvements; C urtis's
Ildicating Telegraph; Dugardin's method of insulating the metallic wires, intend-,(Il for Subterranean or Submarine Telegraphs; Hull's improvements in posts for
Telegraphs; Henley and Foster's Electro-Telegraphic Apparatus and Machinery,
with a notice of Henley's Magneto-Electric Telegraph; Highton's improvements;
13Brown and Williams on protecting the conducting wires of Telegraphs; Thomas's,
Pulvermacker's, Mitchell's, Park's, Buckley's improvements; Siemens' Electric
Telegraph; Horn's Igniting Telegraph; Brett & Little's, Bakewell & McGregor's
improvements in Telegraphs,....                    108
TELEGRAPHIC LINES OF THE WORLD.
Unllited States: Telegraph to California; names and number of Companies in the
IUnited States; greatest distance known lines to work in one circuit; House's
Printing Telegraph; Bain's Telegraph; Morse, number of lines and number of miles;
Abstract of the Annual Report of the Magnetic Telegraph Company from Wash



iX.
PAGE.
ington to New York; number of messages and receipts; the Law of the Telegraph;
total length of Telegraphic wire in Ohio; Companies and number of miles of Telegraph in Canada, England, Scotland, and Ireland; Submarine Telegraph between
England and Ireland, and England and Belgium; Prussian Telegraph; mode of
construction; instruments and batteries used; Telegraphic lines of Austria, Saxony,
Bavaria, and Tuscany, Germany, France, Holland, Italy, Spain, Mexico, Cuba,
Valparaiso, and India,.......      121
APPENDIX.
Notice of the modification of the Bain Telegraph used between New York and
Washington; Report of the Trial of the case of B. B. French against Henry J.
Rogers and others, in the U. S. Circuit Court, in Philadelphia; Mr. Harding's
explanations of the several kinds of Telegraph suggested, invented, and used, anterior to the Patent granted to Professor Morse; Answer and Defence, by Peter
M'Call, Esq.; Argument for Complainants, by Hon. Amos Kendall, continued
and concluded by St. George T. Campbell, Esq.; Argument by Hon. R. H. Gillette, for Respondents, continued by Hon. William M. Meredith; Summing up for
Complainants, by William Gifford, Esq., of New York; Opinion of the Court,
delivered by Judge Kane; Notice of the Trial of F. O. J. Smith vs. Hugh Downing, with the Opinion of the Court, by Hon. Judge Woodbury, delivered in the
IT. S. District Court, District of Massachusetts,...             1








LECTURES
ON THE
ELECTRO-MAGNETIC TELEGRAPH.
FROM TIE JOURNAL OF THE FPANKLIN INSTITUTE
The term Telegraph is derived front the two Greek words TtXs (Tele)
and reg-  (Grapho), meaning "I write afar off."  It is the name given to
any mechanical contrivance for the rapid communication of intelligence
by signals. Of late years the term semaphore (from Sema, (:niuc,) a sign,
and Phero, (%erg,) I bear,) has been introduced by the French, and frequently adopted by English writers.
Although the art of conveying intelligence by signals was practised in
the earliest ages, and was known even to the rudest savages; and though
its importance is not only obvious, but continually felt, wherever government is established, it has been allowed to remain in its original state of
imperfection down almost to the present day. The first notice of any
method of this kind of communication is to be found in the 6th chapter
and 1st verse of the prophet Jeremiah. He says,'"O, ye children of Benjamin, gather yourselves to flee out of the midst of Jerusalem; blow the
trumpet in Tekoa, and set a sign offire in Beth-heccerem.
The proposed object of the telegraphic art is to obtain a figurative language, the characters of which may be distinguished at a distance. Barbarous nations employed torches, fires on the tops of distant hills, hoisting
of flags, carrier pigeons, drums, speaking trumpets, &c. More recently,
since the invention of gunpowder, cannons anrd sky-rockets have beent
applied to the same use.
The first description 6f a telegraph universally applicable, was given
by Dr. Hooke, in the Philosophical Transactions for 1684. The method
which he proposed, (for it was not carried into effect,) consisted in preparing as many different shaped figures, formed of deal, as, for example,
squares, triangles, circles, &c., as there are letters in the alphabet. He
exhibited them successively, in the required order, from behind a screen,
and proposed that torches or other lights, combined in different arrangements, should supply their place by night.
1




About twenty years later, Amontons, of Paris, exhibited some experiments before the royal family of France and the members of the Academy
of Sciences, by which the practicability of the art was demonstrated. It
was not until 1794 that these experiments were applied to any usefil purpose, when the plan was adopted for conveying intelligence to the French
armies.
The first telegraph actually used was the invention of Chappe. It consistedl of a beam, which turned on a pivot in the top of an upright post,
having a movable arm at each of its extremities; and each different position
in which the beam and its two arms could be placed at angles of 45~,
afforded a separate signal which might represent a letter of the alphabet,
or have some other signification that might be agreed upon.
In the following year, 1795, several plans were submitted to the English
Admiralty, of which, one proposed by Lord George Mulrray was adopted,
and continued to be made use of down to the year 1816. It consisted of
six shutters arranged in two frames, which ~being opened and shut according to all the different combinations which can be formed, afforded the
means of giving sixty-three separate and distinct signals.
In 1803, the French erected semaphores along their whole line of coast,
formed of upright posts, bearing two, or sometimes three, beams of wood,
each turning on its own pivot, one above the other.
In 1807, Captain Pasley, of the Royal Engineers, published his Polygrammatic Telegraph, differing from the French semaphore by having
beams turning on the same pivot; and, in order to obtain a sufficient number of different signals, he proposed to erect two or three posts at each
station.
In 1816, Sir Home Popham considerably simplified this
construction.  1I-is telegraph consists of merely two arms,
movable on different pivots, on the saine mast, as seen in
the annexed figure.
Lastly, in 1822 General Pasley still farther simplified
its construction, by placing the two arms on the same axis.
For (lay signals, the telegraph consists of an upright pcst
of sufficient height, with the two arms movable on the
same pivot on the top of it, and a short arm called the indicator, on one side; as seen in the annexed figure. Each arm can exhibit the seven positions 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, besides the position called the stop, which points vertically downwards, and
5x A't@    is hid by the post. The use of the indicator is to show the
order or direction in which the signals are to be reckoned.
In order to alapt the telegraph to the purpose of making
night signals, a lantern, called the central light, is fixed to
the pivot on which the arms move, and one is also attached
to the extremity of each arm. A fourth lantern is also placed
on the extremity of the indicator. Motion is communicated
to these arms by means of an endless chain passing over
two pullies; one fixed to the arm itself, and turning on the same pivot,
and the other on a pivot fixed to the lower part of the post, within the
reach of the signal-man. The required positions are pointed out by a dial
plate, the index of which is moved by a lever attached to the lower pulley.




v
In the Report on Telegraphs for the United States, made at the requesti
of the Hon. Levi Woodbury, Secretary of the Treasury, by the Committee
on Science and the Arts of the Franklin Institute, the Committee say:"We are disposed to recommend a much more simple instrument,
nearly similar to one lately introduced by M. Chateau, in a line of telegraphs which the Russian Government is erecting between Petersburgh
and Warsaw, and which is described in a late number of the Petersburgh
Transactions, by M. Parrot, together with a scheme of his own, almost
identical with it, on which he had made successful experiments many
years before.
"This proposed telegraph consists of a single arm, or indicator, which
should be about nine feet long and one foot wide, with a cross piece at
one end, about three feet long and one wide; the whole arm being movable about an axis at its centre.  The arms are formed like Venitian shutters, and are painted a dead black; the apparatus and fixtures about it
being white.
"The movements may be communicated with ease and certainty, either
by an endless chain passing over a wheel on the axis, and a wheel in the
building; or by bevel wheels on the axis, and on a vertical bar passing
from the building; or by a cog wheel on,the axis, and an endless screw
on the vertical bar.
t'For night signals, three lamps are used; one swinging beyond the end
of the arm, the other two beyond the ends of the cross piece."
Every system of telegraphic signals, according to this plan. is of necessity accompanied with a telegraphic dictionary, containing the meaning of the different combinations of signs.  They were defective, froui
inability to communicate all kinds of information, uncertainty in practice,
a want of simplicity in operation, were too slow in conveying intelligence,
and atltrdled no means for secresy in correspondence. The rapidity with
which electricity traverses great lengths of conducting matter, coupled
with the power which it possesses of deflecting electrometers, had at art
early period led to the idea of employing it as a means of conveying signals from place to place; and this system has, within the last few years,
been brought to such a degree of perfection, as to render it more than
probable, that ere long it will supersede all other modes of conveying intelligencc-, not merely for telegraphic purposes, but also for many other
similar and not less important uses. Solley's Lec. on Tel.) The peculiar
properties of electricity upon which the action of the telegraph depends,
are its passage along conducting bodies, the power to render iron a teinporary magnet, its capability to decompose chemical combinations, andl
cause deflection of the galvanometer needle.  An electric telegraph is
an instrument or apparatus which; by means of conductors of iron, copper,
soil, or water, conveys intelligence to any given distance with the velocity
of lightning.
Previous to the publication of any inventions for this purpose, a number of experiments had been made as to the transmission of electricity
through considerable length of iron wire, water, and even soil.
In 1729, Mr. Grey and Mr. Wheeler observed the instantaneous discharge or electricity through some hundreds of feet of wire.
In 1746, Winckler, at Leipsig, and Nollet Lemonnier, at Paris,




made numerous experiments on the transmission of electricity through
water, earth, &c.; in one case, wires of more than two miles in length
were employed, (Philosophical Transactions, 1746.)
In July, 1747, Dr. Watson, Bishop of Llandaff, together with several
other electricians, ascertained the passage of electricity through water,
by sending shocks across the Thames; experiments which they subsequently repeated on a still larger scale through the New River, at Newington; and in August, 1747, they transmitted shocks through two miles
of wire, and two miles of earth at shooter's Hill.  The passage of electricity through water excited a great deal of interest, and these experiments were repeated in 1748, by Franklin, across the Schuylkill, at Philadelphia; and in 1749, by De Luc, across the Lake of Geneva.
Though electricity is the agent used in common by all telegraph operators, its mode of application has been as manifold as the number of
laborers in this most interesting combination of science and art. Those
now in use, and before described by historians, can be included in three
divisions;-taking them in the order of discovery and application, we have
first the electric, in which simple frictional electricity was alone used;
next the galvanic, where voltaic electricity was employed; and last, the
electro-magnetic, combining the agencies of electricity and magnetism.
The first was used during the period from 1745 to 1800; the second from
1800 to 1825, the third from 1825 to the present time. From 1820 to
1850, there have been no less than sixty-three claimants for different varieties of telegraph.
The first electric telegraph appears to have been made about the year
1786; though long before that time the vague idea of a magical magnetic
telegraph appears to have been entertained, for the Roman Jesuit Strada,
who lived from 1572 to 1649, in a curious book, dated 1617, entitled
Prolusions, describes a fabled contrivance of two magnetic needles, attached to dials, bearing a circle of letters, and which possessed the property of always indicating the same letter, so that when one needle was
mnade to point to any particular letter, the other needle, however distant
at the time, placed itself so as to point to the same letter. An account of
this curious idea will be found in the Spectator, 241, and Guardian, 119.
The first real attempt which seems to have been made to render elee-'tricity available for the transmission of signals, is described by Moigno, in
his Traite de Telegraphie Electrique. It is that of Lesage, a scientific
Frenchman, who in 1774 established an electric telegraph at Geneva,
composed of 24 metallic wires, separated from each other, and immersed
in a non-conducting matter. Every wire corresponded with a particular
electrometer, formed of a small ball of elder, suspended by a wire. By
placing an electrical machine in communication with either of these wires,
the ball of the electrometer which corresponded to it was repulsed, and the
movement designated the letter of the alphabet, or whatever conventional
signal it was wished to transmit.
In the 1st volume, page 42, of Arthur Young's Travels in France during the year 1757, will be found the following description of an electric
telegraph:
"Mr. Lomond has made a remarkable discovery in electricity. You
write two or three words upon paper; he takes them with him  into a




chamber, and turns a machine in a cylinder case, on the top of which is
an electrometer, having a pretty little ball of pith of a quill suspended by a
silk thread; a brass wire connects it to a similar cylinder and electrometer in
a distant apartment, and his wife, on observing the movements of the corresponding ball, wrote the words which it indicated. From this it appears
that he had made an alphabet of movements; and as the length of the brass
wire made no difference, you could correspond at a great distance, as for
example, with a besieged city, or for purposes of more importance."
Electricity was generated and retained by the common machine and a
Leyden phial. Having but one movement, and using an apparatus extremely delicate, we must suppose this mode of communication to be
limited and dilatory.
In Voigt's JMagazine for 1794, Vol. Ix., p. 183, there is a letter from Reusser, of Geneva, in which he describes an electric telegraph. In this copntrivance, a number of strips of tin foil were fastened on a glass plate, each
strip having a different letter marked on it, and connected by carefully insulated wires inclosed in glass tubes, with a corresponding glass plate at a
distance.  Thus there was a separate wire for each letter, and one return
wire for the whole series.  Signals were transmitted by sending electric
shocks through the different wires, and noting down the letters attachld
to the strips of tin-foil, where the sparks were observed.  The attention
of the observer at a distant station was drawn by firing an inflammable
air pistol attached to the apparatus, by means of an electric spark..,
"A similar and yet more practical proposition was soon after made by
Professor Boeckman.  He proposed to choose as the signals the sparks
passing at the distant station, using only two wires, by which first one and
then, after certain intervals, more sparks being combinedly grouped,"'in
(licating the particular letter, so as to get rid of the large number of
wires used by Reiszer, and also the twenty-six glass plates; in the same
manner as the alarms of fire are indicated by our State House clock.(Dr. H. Schellen's Electro-.l1agnetic Telegracph, p. 46, 1850.)
The M.ladrid Gazette of November 25th, 1796, states, that the Prince
de la Paix, having heard that AM. D. F. Salva had read to the Academy
of Sciences, a memoir upon the application of electricity to telegraphing,
and presented at the same time an electric telegraph of his own invention,
diesired to examine it; when, being delighted with the promptness and
facility with which it worked, presented it before the king an(d court,
operating it himself.  After these experiments, the Infanta Don Antonio
desired another more complete telegraph, andl occupied himself in testing
the quantity of electricity that would be required by the telegraph at diffterent distances, whether on land or water.
Some useful trials were made and published in Vaigt's Jllagazine. Two
years after, the hIfanta Don Antonlio constructed a telegraph of great extent
on a large scale, by which the young prince was informed at night of news
in which he was much interested.  He also invited and entertained
Salva at court.  According to Humboldt, a telegraph of this description
was established in 1798, from Madrid to Aranjuez, a distance of 26 miles.
Other writers affirm, that M. Betancourt established a line of telegraph
between the same places in 1787, and worked it with firictional electricity.
M. Cavallo pu'blished some experimlentsebhich he lhadh made on the
1..t.




transmission of signals in 1795. (4th edition, Traite de Electricitie, published 1798, vol. III., page 285.) The most important of these consisted
in firing gunpowder, phosphorus, and hydrogen, by electric sparks, at a
distance of a few hundred feet. He adds, that the same might be done at
the distance of many miles.
The next electric telegraph in order of dates, was that of Mr. Francis
Ronalds,, who in 1816 constructed one, by means of which he was enabled to send signals with considerable facility and rapidity, through a distance of eight miles, using frictional electricity. He published a work in
1823, describing his telegraph, and illustrating it with plates; also, several
other electrical instruments of his invention. This plan was very simple;
at either end of the wires was a clock, carrying a light paper disk, on
which were marked the letters of the alphabet, and certain words and
numbers. By means of a perforated cover, only one letter and figure
were visible at a time, and, as the clock continued to go, every letter in
turn was presented at the aperture to the view. As the clocks kept accurate time, it is evident that the same letter would always be visible at
both clocks., and therefore that if an electric discharge were sent from one
station to another, when a particular letter was exhibited on the dial, the
observer at the other station would readily know the signal intended.
The wires were buried under ground, in dry and well insulated glass
tubes. The attention of the observer was, at the outset, drawn to the instrument by an inflammable air gun fired by an electric spark, and the
subsequent signals indicated by the divergence of two small pith balls
suspended in front of the revolving disks, a distance of eight miles along
a wire.
f..., XtXx
Fig. 1.                            Fig. 2.
Fig. 1 shows the form of the apparatus used at either end of the telegraph.  A, the air pistol; B, the dial, exhibiting one letter only through
a slit; C, pith ball electrometer; D, conducting wire. Fig. 2, the dial
without the slit, showing the letters and numbers upon it.
Harrison Grey Dyer, an American, constructed a telegraph in 1827-8
at the race course on Long Isl'and, and supported his wires by glass insuh:-tors fixed on trees and poles.  By means of common electricity, acting
upon litmus paper, he produced a red mark, and then passed the current
through the ground as a return circuit.  The difference of time between




the sparks'indicated different letters arranged in an arbitrary alphabet, and
the paper was moved by the hand.-(Bell's Evidence in House's Case.)
Like many preceding it, this instrument appears to have been little more
than a philosophical toy,-frictional electricity being too easily dissipated,
rapid and incontinuous in action, confined with great difficulty to conductors, andl devoid of that dense, energetic, yet almost imperceptible, force
which renders galvanic electricity so available in this art. His instrument
is far inferior to that of Scemmering, invented twenty years before, and
indicates a want of proper regard fobr, or information of, the discoveries
of Galvani, (ECrstead, Ampere, and a host of others.
Henry Haighton, of England, secured a patent in September, 1844, for
certain improvements in electric telegraphs.
"The object of this invention being to adapt a system of telegraphing
to common or frictional electricity, the inventor uses for this purpose a
Leyden battery charged with Armstrong's hydro-electric, or other powerful electric machine.  For the purpose of regulating the number of dis-c
charges sent, the nature of the charges as to positive and negative, and
the times at which the discharges are transmitted, an instrument is employed which admits of various modifications according to circumstances.
By this invention, it can be shown that, in ten discharges, any signal oAt
of a number of sixteen thousand may be made; and by thirty discharges,
any one of more than a thousand millions.
"'rhe method of reading the signals at the terminal point is by means
of two wires, one communicating with the pornt of transmission, and the
other with the earth; they are placed at right angles to a sheet of paper
which is moved along by machinery, so that each discharge may traverse
the surface, and penetrate the substance of the paper close to the wire
giving out the negative fluid.  The paper- is colored with chromate of
lead, and moistened with sulphuric acid, to expedite the passage of the
spark; and by this means the sparks leave upon the paper a register of
the signals that have been made."- Lond. Mech. JJiag., Vol. XLII., p. 122.
Betfore eonsitlering the individual galvanic telegraphs, it will be proper
to state the most important phenomena and laws of galvanism; also, the
principal forns of voltaic apparatus.'The first instrument of importance, was the voltaic pile of Professor
Volta, of Pavia, a description of which is published in the Philosophical
Transactions of 1800; although the discovery of galvanism is due to Galvani, Professor of Anatomy at Bologna, who found that by forming a
chain of conducting substances, between the outside of the muscles of
the leg and the crural nerve of a frog, convulsions might be produced.
Galvani previously entertained the idea, that the contractions of the muscles of animals were dependent on electricity.
The invention of the pile by Volta, was the result of profound thcug}ht
on the development of electricity at the surface of contact of different
metals.
The galvanic pile of Volta consisted of an equal number of silver coins
and pieces of zinc of the same form, with circular disks of card soaked
in salt water; of these he formed a pile or column by placing them alternately. If the uppermost disk of metal, either copper or silver, be touched
with the finger, previously wetted, while a finger of the other hand is ap0                              Z:W  ~~~~-1 —-~~- -




plied to the lowest disk, a distinct shock is felt, which is increased with
the number of plates.  Instead of the moist conductor, we now  use
liqui(ls of various kinds, and electricians have devised various forms of
batteries, but all based on the important principle discovered by Volta.
"By the voltaic pile, I mean such apparatus, or arrangement of metals,
as contain water, brine, acid, or other aqueous solutions or decomposable
substances between their plates; decomposition is an essential chemical
part of every voltaic battery."-(Faraday's Researches.)
It was Volta who removed our doubtful knowledge. "Such knowledge
is the early morning light of every advancing science, and is essential to
its development; but the man who is engaged in dispelling that which is
deceptive in it, and revealing more clearly that which is true, is as useful
in his place, and as necessary to the general progress of science, as he
who first broke through the intellectual darkness, and opened a path into
knowledge before unknown." —(Ibid.)
According to Professor Faraday, the supply of electricity is due to chemical power in the voltaic pile, metallic contact not being necessary for
the production of the voltaic current; and further, that electricity is only
another mode of the exertion of pure unmixed chemical forces. It is proportional in its intensities to the intensities of the affinities concerned in
its production, and its quantity to the quantity of matter which has been
chemically active during its evolution. It is the union of oxygen of the
water which determines the current; and though the acid is essential to
the removal of the oxide so formed, in order that another portion of zinc
may act on another portion of water, it does not by combination with that
oxide produce any sensible portion of' the circulating electrical current;
for the quantity of electricity is dependent on the quantity of zinc oxidized,
-and is scarcely, if at all, affected by the use of either strong or weak acid.
Galvanic differs from frictional electricity in its low degree of intensity,
the larger amount set in motion, the greater constancy, more perpetual
reproduction, less tendency to escape, and better conduction along me-'tallic substances without being dissipated.  The unequal character of all
the batteries previous to the one introduced by the late Prof. Daniell, of
King's College, London, was a serionus obstacle to telegraphic operations; they are familiar to most persons who have taken any interest in this
important matter, and I will therefore omit them.
Prof. Daniell was the first to invent a battery capable of constant and
steady actlaon, and thus overcame the detfets of those previously in use.'I'he defect-s which cause the electromotive action to subside rapidly, and
soon to cease altogether, are: 1st, The sulphuric acid becomes saturated
with the oxide of zinc. 2d, The hydrogen adheres to the surface of the.
metals, and thus prevents their perfect contact with the water.  3d, By
the chemical action of the battery, the zinc, contained in the sulphate of
zinc which is formed, is reduced to the metallic state at the surface of the
copper, and deposited upon it in the form of a crust, where it acts locally
and impairs the conducting power. 4th, Electricity is carried off and dissipated by the escaping hydrogen.  5th, Impurities on the surface of the
zinc form small circuits, by which the electricity is condlucted back into
it, without going through the fluid to the copper, and then returning by
metallic connexion.




The adhesion of hydrogen to the zinc plate, does not take place when
that metal is pure or amalgamated with mercury. Prof. Daniell, therefore,
employs a cylindrical rod of zinc, amalgamated with mercury, instead of
a plate of the common and impure metal.  The amalgamation has also
the effect of preventing the small local electric circuits, by covering up the
impurities which exist on its surface. This was first introduced by Sturgeon. But the peculiar and most vauable feature of this battery is the
use of a porous partition, which may be formed of animal membrane,
earthenware, plaster of Paris, paper, or any similar substance.  This
divides the vessels containing the metals into two cells, one of which,
the zinc cell, is filled with dilute sulphuric acid, in the proportion of
ten parts water to one of acid, and the other with an acid solution of
sulphate of copper.  The partition freely transmits the electrical current,
but prevents the passage of the sulphate of zinc to the copper plate,
and thus remedies the third of the above mentioned defects.  The sulphate of copper is decomposed into sulphuric acid and protoxide of copper.
The sulphuric acid passes through the partition into the zinc cell, there
to act upon the oxide of zinc, while the oxide of copper is again decomposed into oxygen and metallic copper. The oxygen unites with the
nascent hydrogen formed in the oxidation of the zinc to form water, an d
the metallic copper is deposited on the copper plate, keeping the plate
constantly bright, and thus making it a better conductor. The hydrogen
being consumed in the formation of water, it cannot interfere with the
action of the conducting plate, nor convey away electricity. A little frame
is fitted to the top of the cell, in which crystals of sulphate of copper
are placed, in order that the strength of the solution may remain unimapaired.
Another form of battery, proposed by Prof. Grovp, of London, is an
improvement upon Prof. Daniell's, in respect to amount of force generated in a small space, and has been adopted in most of the telegraphic
offices of this country. A platinum plate is substituted for the copper
one of Prof. Daniell, and instead of sulphate of copper, strong nitric
acid is used, which furnishes oxygen to unite with the hydrogen. The
oxygen in nitric acid is held by very slight affinity, and many chemical
substances reduce the nitric acid to hypo-nitrous and nitrous acid, which
contains one and two equivalents less.  The increase of power in
Grove's battery over Daniell's battery, for the same amount of zinc dissolved, is equal to the difference of affinity between oxygen for nitrous acid
and oxygen for zinc. The force of Grove's battery is, therefore, equal to
the affinity of oxygen for zinc, minus the affinity of oxygen for nitrous acid.
The energyofa galvanic arrangement depen(ls to some extent upon the difference in the affinity for oxygen of the metals employed, which in the case
of platinum and zinc, is at a maximum, zinc being most readily oxydized,
and platinum least so. The zinc plate, as in Daniell's, is amalgamated
and surrounded by sulphuric acid, diluted with eight parts of water,
while the nitric acid is placed in the platinum cell. A Grove battery
exposing a surface of zinc equal to twenty square inches, was found by
its magnetizing power, to afford a current of greater quantity than a Danjell battery exposing 210 inches of zinc.  The intensity of the current
is also considered three times as great as Daniell's, and is remarkable for




10
its constancy. The escape of nitrous acid, red fumes from this battery,
render it disagreeable and unsafe to a careless experimenter. They are
irrespirable, and injurious to nice apparatus which may be exposed to them.
By placing a metallic covering (protected from the acid fumes) over the
battery, and allowing the gases to escape through an orifice stuffed with
cotton, wet with a little alcohol, these may be to some extent neutralized.
The intensity of the current depends on the chemical affinities which are
concerned, and on this account there is a gain in Grove's battery over
Daniell's.  Prof. Callan, of Maynooth College, Ireland, has invented a
galvanic battery, cheap in its construction and use, yet powerful. He
substitutes cast iron for the outer copper cell, and a flat piece of zinc for
the inner one, with equal parts of nitric and sulphuric acids for the outer
cell, and a mixture of two parts of nitric acid, five of sulphuric acid, and
forty-five of water for the inner one.
The effect of the galvanic current on the nerves and muscles of animals, are essentially the same as those produced by frictional electricity,
modified, however, in some degree, by the continuous action of it. They
are also characterized by the presence of some chemical influence, which
excites-the organs of taste and sight in a remarkable manner. Very small
batteries are adequate to excite the organs of taste and sight, but a large
apparatus is needed to produce any perceptible influence on the sense of
touch, so as to cause the muscles of the human body to contract, when it
forms part of the circuit. Galvani, in his fundamental experiment, touched the nerves of a dead frog's spine and the muscles of one of his thighs
with two different metals, and then forming a circuit by a wire between
them, the leg became violently contracted. When the nerves of vision
are made to form part of the voltaic connexion, peculiar luminous flashes
will appear beforothe eyes. The excitement of the organ of hearing
under similar circumstances is not less interesting, a roaring sound being
heard as long as the wires are kept in place. On closely observing the
effect of galvanic electricity upon the muscular and nervous system, three
distinct stages in the process are readily seen. First, when the circuit
is completed, an electric shock is experienced; next, the continued
action of the current causes a series of contractions rapidly succeeding
each other; and lastly, when the connexion is broken. a less violent shock
than before is felt.  The shock of the voltaic battery differs from common
electricity, as the latter is felt far less deeply, affecting only the outer
part of our organs, and being exhausted in a momont. The voltaic shock,
on the contrary, penetrates farther into the system, passing along the entire course of the nerves.  The influence of the galvanic current on the
nervous system, has been successfully applied to the restoration of persons in whom animation was suspended. By means of it, Aldini set in
motion the feet of a corpse, caused the eyes to open and shut, and distorted the mouth, cheeks, and the whole countenance. Ure, by completing the circuit through the body of a man recently hung, caused the
muscles of the face to acquire a frightful activity, so that rage, despair,
and anguish, with horrid smiles, were successively depicted on the
countenance.-( Peschell's Elements of Physics.)
The chemical effects of galvanism are perhaps the most important of
all that come uuder our observation.  Prof. Faraday's investigations




11
have recently added most materially to oiir knowledge on this subject,
and it is to him that we are indebted for detecting most of its laws.  To
produce these affects, the electrical current must be conducted completely
through the substance which is to be decomposed; as soon as the circuit is completed, the elements are set in operation, and so continue
until the connexion is broken. The bedies to be resolved must be conductors of electricity, and also be in a liquid condition, that their particles
may move freely among each other.  The circuit may be completed
through the fluid, by dipping into it the metallic wires which connect with
the poles of the battery.  These extremities of the wire are commonly
termed poles, from an idea that they exert attractive and repulsive energies towards the elements of the decomposing liquid, just as the poles of
a magnet act towards iron; and each is farther distingruished by the term
positive, and negative, according as it affects an electrometer with positive
or negative electricity. Now Prof. Faraday contends, and has proved
by experiment, that these poles have not any attractive or repulsive energy,
and act simply as a path, or door, to the current; he hence calls them
electrodes, from electron, Oxrpov, electricity, and odos, oaos, a way.  The
electrodes are the surfaces, whether of air, water, metal, or any other
substance, which serve to convey an electric current into and from'the
liquid to be decomposed.  The surfaces of this liquid which are in immediate contact with the electrodes, and where the elements make their
appearance, are termed anode, and cathode, from ana, ava, upwards, and
odos, 0obo, the way in which the sun rises, and kata, xata, downwards, the
way in which the sun sets. The anode is where the positive current is
supposed to enter, and the cathode where it quits, the decomposing
liquid; its direction, when the electrodes are placed east and west, corresponding with that of the positive current, which is thought to circulate
on the surface of the earth.  To eleotrolyze a compound is to decompose
it by the direct action of galvanism, its name being formed from electron,
~xsepov, and luo,.vJo, to unloose or set free. An electrolyte is a compound
which may be electrolyzed. The elements of an electrolyte are called
ions from ion, bov, going, neuter participle of the verb to go. Anions, are
the ions, which appear at the anode, and are usually termed the electronegative ingredients of a compound, such as oxygen, chlorine, and acids;
while the electro-positive substances, as hydrogen, metals, alkalies, &c.
which appear at the cathode, are cations. Whatever may be thought of
the necessity of some of these terms, the words electrode, electrolyze,
and electrolyte, are peculiarly appropriate.-(Faraday's Experimental
Researches.)
Water, the first agent decomposed in this way, was electrolyzed by
Messrs. Nicholson and Carlisle, soon after the discovery of the voltaic
pile. From its low conducting power, water requires a powerful current
for its decomposition, unless it be slightly acidulated.  In 1803, Berzelius and Hisinger ascertained the power of the galvanic battery to resolve
many other substances into their elements; that these elements observed
regular laws in their resolution into more simple form, as oxygen and acids
accumulated about the positive pole; while hydrogen, alkaline earths, and
metals appeared at the negative one.  Sir H. Davy communicated to the
Royal Society, his celebrated Lecture on some chemical agencies of




12
Electricity in 1806; and in 1807, he announced the grand discovery of the
decomposition of the fixed alkalies. Faraday's masterly productions on
this subject were elicited in the period from 1831 to 1840, some of which
important results have been mentioned.
It is an interesting matter to obtain a fixed rule or law, by which we
can estimate the amount of projectile force needed by a galvanic current
to pass over a certain length of telegraphic wire; though all such rules
must be more or less inconclusive, from the number of contingent circumstances on which they depend; still, from experiment and observation, we
can obtain those which may be useful in making what are termed rough
calculations. To make such a computation, we must on one hand find
all the sources which give motive power, and on the other seek those
agencies which offer resistance to that power, obtain the sum of each, and
then institute a comparison.  The power is that electricity of intensity
which a single galvanic cell is capable of generating.  This multiplied
by the number of c'ells gives us the whole amount of electrical power.
The resistance is that obstruction the electricity meets in the conducting
metal and the liquid of the cells.  Find the amount of obstruction in a
single cell; this multiplied by the number of cells affords the total sum of
a battery. Then divide the whole sum of power by the total amount of
resistance in the conducting wire and liquid of the battery cells, and the
quotient will be the effective power of the battery.
The electromotive force of an electric current may be ascertained by the
following importantlaw of Ohm, which was discovered in the year 1827,
being applicable under all circumstances, referring to all the causes which
tend to impede the action of the battery.  "It is, that the intensity of an
electric current where a battery is in action, is directly as the whole electromotive force in operation, and inversely as the sum of all the impediments to conduction.  It may therefore be expressed by a fraction whose
numerator is the electromotive force, and its denominator the sum of the
resistance of all its parts. Let I be the intensity of the current; E the
effective electromotive force in the battery; R its constant retarding influence, and r the variable retardin influence in the connecting wires; then
R -? r
If, according to Ohm's formula, we put the intensity of the current in a
simple voltaic arrangement whose excited surface is I,
E
1. IR+r
Then the intensity of a current from a battery of n pairs of plates or cups
will be,
nE
2.  I'=
n R + r'
and in a single voltaic arrangement whose surface is n times greater than
I, the resistance to conduction being diminished inversely as the area of
its transverse section, the intensity becomes
3. I" E   nE,,
~R-trR+nr
n
12




The resistance to an electric current in a conducting wire is in proportion to the length of the wire, and inversely as its sectional area. That is,
the longer the wire the greater the resistance, and the larger the wire the
less the resistance. If the wire be many miles long, the resistance to the
electrical current varies arithmetically as the wire increases in length
geometrically. Arithmetical progression is constant addition, while geometrical progression is constant multiplication, and the ratio would stand
thus:
Resistance,  1:3:5:7:9: 11  13:  15,&c.
Length,    1: 2: 4: 8:  16:   32:  64:  128, &c.
The resistance of the liquid in the cells is in direct proportion to the
amount and thickness of that fluid, and in the inverse proportion to its
conductibility. Or the greater the thickness of the fluid, the more resistance it will oppose to the galvanic current; while, on the other hand, the
greater the conducting power of the fluid, the less obstruction is presented.
Thus it will be seen that the data for such an estimate are numerous,
and require much scrutinizing experiment to afford a system for practical
deduction.
Professors Wheatstone, of London, Steinheil, of Munich, and Jacobi,
of St. Petersburgh, appear to have been foremost among those who have
endeavored to ascertain the velocity of the electrical current. Its rapidity previous to their labors was supposed incalculable; simple observation had impressed experimenters with the opinion that it was instantaneous; but, like the other imponderable agents, it has not only been shown
to be progressive, but also, under peculiar circumstances, of much less
celerity than light. It is greatly modified by the incidents connected with
different trials. Not only the kind of electricity employed, but the nature.
and size of the conductor, temperature and electrical tension of the atmosphere, dissimilar means and instruments used by different operators for
arriving at results, may perhaps account for the very discordant opinions
of practical physicists on this topic. Prof. Wheatstone, making a current of frictional electricity pass along copper wire, and noting the intervals of reflected sparks from a revolving mirror, estimated the speed at
228,000 miles in a second. Our ingenious and distinguished townsman,
Mr. Saxton, devised the instrument with which Prof. W. determined these
facts. Some truly practical and indefatigable trials have been recently
made under the direction of Prof. S. C. Walker, of the United States Coast
Survey, which, like the rest, present a heterogeneous mass of probable
velocity; taking the whole of them, he deduces the "resultant as 15,890
miles per second, as the most probable value."-(Silliman's Journal,.March, 1851.)-He used galvanic electricity, and conductors of wire
known in trade as No. 9.
Professor Mitchell, of the Cincinnati Observatory, experimented with
a sidereal clock on the common telegraphic line, and inferred the velocity at 30,000 miles per second. And again, Messrs. Fizeau and Gounelle,
in a paper published in the Comptes Rendus of April last, make their result
as 111,886 miles per second in copper wire, and 62,159 in iron.-(Jour.
Frank. Ins., Vol. xx. p. 62.)
Here are very many discrepancies, that may be perhaps ascribed to the
variable contingencies attending the experiments. Matteucci, Baumgart2




14
ner, Kirchoff, Ridolphi, and Smauren, are and have been prominent investigators of this subject.
Many trials were made at an early period, on the transmission of galvanism through water and soil. In 1803, experiments were made by F.
H. Basse on the Weser, a distance of 4000 feet being included in the
circuit, (Gilbert's J./nnalen, xiv. p. 26,) by Erman in the Havel, near
Potsdam, (Gilbert, xiv. p. 385,) and by Aldini at Calais, across about
200 feet of sea water.
Prof. Steinheil, in 1837, first employed the earth as a return portion of
the circuit between telegraphic stations, aud nearly all the telegraph lines
are now arranged on this principle. Much speculation has arisen, as to
the mode in which the electrical impulse is conveyed through the earth
between the termini; though it is as much under our control as when
transmitted through wire conductors, it is difficult to conceive the passage
of the fluid in these cases as similar. In all our experiments we find the
earth a vast receptacle and source of electricity, and from this fact modern
physicists suppose no impulse communicated, but that electricity given
to the earth at one end of the line increases the whole amount of it and
the equilibrium is restored by the escape of the redundant fluid into the
other extremity of the wire. Baumgartner inferred from experiment, that
the geological structure of the intervening earth had some effect upon the
time required for the appearance of the electrical impulse at the termini;
this, if correct, is strong evidence in favor of conduction of electricity by
the earth.
4Jpplication of Galvanism to Telegraphing.-"Mr. S. T. SOmmering,
of Munich, first applied galvanism to telegraphing; in 1809, he constructed
an apparatus, which by decomposing water enabled him to give signals.
At the station where the news was to arrive, were arranged thirty-five small
glass test tubes, filled with water, and reversed in a reservoir also containing that fluid. Into each one of these test tubes, projected through the
bottom of the reservoir the gilt end of one of thirty-five wires, that came
from the transmitting station. Each wire at the termini of the line was
connected to its own distinct brass plate or cylinder. These plates were
arranged in a row and perforated at one extremity; by introducing two
conical metallic pins connected with the poles of a voltaic battery into these
perforations, a circuit was established. Each glass tube was marked with
one of the 25 letters of the German alphabet, and 10 numerals, and the plate
connected to it by wire at the other station, was stamped with the same.
The circuit being established, the water in two of the tubes was decomposed, the gaseous constituents of which rising gave two signs, whose succession was determined by considering the letter over the evolvedhydrogen
as first.  Decomposition of water gives twice the volume of hydrogen
that it does of oxygen, and thus no mistake could well be made in distinguishing themni.  The conducting wires, well insulated, after passing
some distance from the apparatus, were wound into a rope to go on to their
destination. Fig. 3 represents Sommering's telegraph; A A water receiver.
The points protruding into it are shown, the glass tubes are removed.
B'B the apparatus to close the circuit; C the voltaic battery; single wires
coming from the wire rope D have connexion with the plates or cylinders. Into the perforations of these plates the metal pencils connected




15
with the closing wires X y fit exactly; they are kept clean and free from
oxidation in order that they may do so.
If the rod or pencil of the positive pole is put into the plate L, and that
Fig. 3.
of the negative one into the plate S, the circuit is closed. Coming from
X, the current goes into the wire in connexion with L, then to 1, at the
other station, through the receiver to S, thence into the conducting wire,
-to S at the first station, through y, to the negative pole of the battery.




16
~Oxygen rises from the positive pole in the glass i, and hydrogen from the
negative one in the glass s, and thus a signal is given which reads s 1.
The mode of completing the connexion is exhibited in the small fig. 4,
by a lateral view of the instrument; B standard to
Fig. 4.      support the frame of cylinders; C a single cylinder;.P        a orifice in it where the rod P is introduced; x wire
connecting with the positive pole of the battery; D
wire leading to the opposite station.
Especial signals are used to denominate the same
X  letter used twice in succession, or to designate the
-  end of a word. Summering connected with his
instrument a curiously constructed alarm, to call the
attention of the operator.  It consisted of a two
armed lever, the longer arm having the shape of a
spoon, while the shorter supported a rolling brass
ball. The arrangement was easily moved, and it was necessary to poise
it after each telegraphic operation. The hollow end of the long arm stood
over the end of one of the wire points, and at the commencement of an
operation received the hydrogen that was evolved at this point.  After
one half a minute, sufficient gas was evolved to carry upward in its ascent
the long arm of the lever, depress the shorter one, and by this depression permit the ball to fall through a tube on a lever connected to an
alarm stop, set it loose, and thus put the alarm in active operation.
Though very ingenious, the expense of so many wires, and their insulation, precluded the use of this instrument' on a large scale; likewise, the
necessity of constant attention on the part of the attendant to watch the
evolution of gas in two of the thirty-five tubes, was a strong objection to it.
On the publication of this apparatus in his Journal, Schweigger proposed the use of two wires, which he considered sufficient, if two voltaic
batteries, one strong and another weak, were used, and the time being
taken into consideration partly during the evolution of the gas, and partly
that which elapsed between the two evolutions following each other.(Schellen's Elec. JMag., p. 53.)
We find the following in T      h        or 1816, from the pen
of Dr. J. R. Coxe, then Professor of Chemistry in the Univesity of Pennsylvania. This hoary headed veteran in the cause of knowledge, is still
living in our midst. Though long since withdrawn from the active duties
of teacher in the oldest medical school of this country, the mementoes of
his labors remain emblazoned among the records of science. Speaking of
galvanism, he says, "I have contemplated this important agent, as a probable means of establishing telegraphic communications with as much rapidity, and perhaps less expense, than any hitherto employed. I do not
know how far experiment has determined galvanic action to be communicated by means of wires; but there is no reason to suppose it confined as
to limits, certainly not as to time. Now, by means of apparatus fixed at
certain distances, as telegraphic stations, by tubes for the decomposition
of water, metallic salts, &c., regularly arranged, such a key might be
adopted as would be requisite to communicate words, sentences or figures,
from one station to another, and so on to the end of the line. As it takes
up little room, and may be fixed in private, it might in many cases of be



17
sieged towns, &e., convey useful intelligence with scarcely a chahce of
detection by the enemy. However fanciful in speculation, I have zo
doubt, that sooner or later, it will be rendered useful in practice. I have
thus, my dear sir, ventured to encroach on your time with some crude
ideas that serve perhaps to elicit some useful experiments in the hands of
others. When we consider what wonderful results have arisen from the
first trifling experiments of the junction of a small piece of silver and zinc
in so short a period, what may not be expected from the further extension
of galvanic electricity! I have no doubt otf its being the chief agent in the
hands of nature in the mighty changes that occur around us."
Next in order of those depending on the galvanic principle solely, is
the physiological telegraph of Vorzleman De Haer. He proposed the
instruirent on a small scale in 1839, basing it on the property of galvanism
to produce physiological effects on the nerves and muscles, andmnakinig
sensation the means of receiving the signals. He employed ten wires
after Messrs. Steinheil and Morse had succeeded with only one, and experience has also taught us that many repeated shocks render the operator insensible; the workmen inthe gutta percha manufactory of Fonropert
and Pruckner, at Berlin, engaged in proving insulated tubes, lose sensibi ity in their hands and forearms after a day's work. One constructed tby
a skilful organ builder, was exhibited in January, 1839, at a sitting of
the Physical Society of Deventer. The keys have a similar arrangement to those of the piano forte, and connexion is established by depressing them into a cup of mercurial; no extensive use has been made
this instrument.-(Schellen's Elec. Mag., page 66.)
Mr. R. Smith, Lecturer on Chemistry, Blackford, Scotland, invented
an Electro-Chemical Telegraph.  A paper containing an account of
which was read before the Royal Scottish Society of Arts, on the 27th of
March, 1843, reported on by a committee, and approved the 12th June
following. Since that time, many trials have been made, and various
improvements in its construction have also been introduced by the inventor.  The following is a description of it in its present improved form,
In the annexed wood-cut, A represents the indicating portion of the
telegraphic apparatus, a is a leaden cylinder fixed upon a spindle, which
is supported so as to revolve freely, by two standards attached to the bottom plate of the apparatus, b b is a piece of calico in the form of a riband coiled upon the roller c, placed in the trough d, its contrary extremity being attached to the second roller e, revolving loosely in standars attached to the opposite end of the bottom plate, B is the communi,
cator, or that portion of the apparatus through which any given signal is
communicated to the indicator A; f is a block of wood having a brass
plate g attached to it, h is a slip of wood hinged to the block, and slightly
raised above the surface of the brass plate g by means of a spring placed
beneath it. The brass plate g is connected by the wire k with the posi.
tive end of the voltaic battery C, the negative end of which is connected
with the wire 1, which passes along to the indicator A, where it is attached to the leaden cylinder a. The other wire m is attached to the finger.
board h, through which it passes, projecting slightly on the lower surface,
its contrary end being attached to the impress wire n, which is supported:
loosely by a cross-beam on the top of the centre-standards of the indica



18
tor, its lower end resting upon the calico riband on the leaden cylinder
beneath.
To put this apparatus in action, the cells of the battery C are filled with
water, and the trough d with a solution of ferro-cyanate of potass, to
which have been added a few drops of nitric acid. The roller e to which
the indicator cloth is attached is next put in motion by clock-work, and
thus the cloth wet with the solution contained in trough d is caused to pass
uniformly over the leaden cylinder a below the point of the impress wire.
The apparatus is now ready for signaling, which is done by pressing
down the finger board h, so as to bring the end of the wire n in contact
with the brass platef, thus completing the electric circuit.  The impress
wire n now becomes the positive electrode, and the cylinder a the negative one, and a blue mark is printed upon the cloth, by the electric fluid
decomposing the ferro-cyanate of potass, thus forming cyanate of iron.
If the circuit is formed and broken rapidly, a succession of dots will be
printed upon the cloth; if formed and broken at long intervals, the result will be a series of marks.  In this manner long and short spaces and
corresponding lines will be formed according to the duration of the opening or closing of the circuit, and the speed with which the cloth is caused
to pass beneath the metallic pen. An arrangement of these various marks
thus forms the telegraphic alphabet, from which sentences may be composecd, embracing any information which it may be necessary to transmit.
For instance, a single dot may be taken as the index for A, two for B,
three for C, and a dot and line for D, &c.'I'he species of battery which is the best adapted for producing the
electro-chemical indications, consists of 40 repetitions of charcoal and.
zinc plates; the charcoal plates being composed of three parts pulverized
charcoal, two of pulverized coke, and one of wheaten flour, mixed together with water; when formed, the plates are allowed to dry, and are
then placed in an earthen crucible, in the lid of which is an aperture for
tee escape of the gases; in this they are heated to redness.  This battery
will keep up a uniform and energetic current for a considerable time, the
cells being merely filled with water; the only attention which it requires
subsequently, being to wash off any oxide which may be deposited upon
the plates, and supply fresh water.  The battery employed for making
the electro-magnetic telegraph is a calorimeter or single circle, the electricity generated by this battery has a tendency to weaken in its progress,




19
so that the defect must necessarily be provided for by placing batteries at different distances, according to the desired amount of power, this
objection is completely removed in the voltaic apparatus. Experiment
has proved that the electric energy from the intensity battery, in producing
the electro chemical effects, increases instead of diminishing in regard to
distance. Faraday ascertained that the quantity of electricity required to
decompose a single drop of water, is equal to that of a powerful flash of
lightning, while from the largest single circuit ever constructed, not the
slighest chemical effect can be exhibited.   On the other hand, a small
single circle composed only of a few square inches of copper and zinc,
will temporarily magnetize a large bar of iron, while a powerful voltaic
trough will not magnetize a lady's sewing needle. Throughout the whole
of the practical details of the electro-magnetic apparatus, a far greater
amount of carefulness of workmanship is required than in those of the
voltaic one. Thus, the whole of the joinings of the conducting wires,
require to be in perfect metallic contact, and carefully isolated, whilst
the electro-chemical communications may be transmitted through the medium of a wire fence. The inventor lately exhibited an experiment which
proves the practicability of this application.
In this case the communicator and indicator were attached to the contrary extremities of an iron wire fence of a length of 1868 yards, when a
number of signals were despatched with the greatest facility. This economical adaptation will doubtless render it worthy of the attention of railway proprietors, as a metallic fence may in this manner be rendered
doubly useful.-(Prac. JMech. and Eng. JMag., Glasgow, Vol. i., 2d series,
pp. 36, 239.)
Succeeding this in our chronological series, comes the instrument of
Alexander Bain, a native of the northern part of Scotland.  Mr. Bain's
instrument, dated December 12, 1846, in patent specifications, depends
for its efficiency on electro-chemical action, and consists of a transmitting apparatus at one end of the line, with a recipient one at the other
terminus. Figure 5 is an elevation, and fig. 6 is a plan of so much of a
transmitting apparatus as is necessary to show its mode of action.  A A
is a thin roller of wood upon which is wound a long strip of paper, previously perforated with holes a a a, in the manner represented in fig. 7.
Each group of holes as divided by cross lines, represent letters, numerals, words, or sentences, as may have before been fixed upon. From
this roller A, the end of this slip of paper is passed between another
roller B, and two metallic springs C' C2. The roller B is composed
of metal pieces a' a2, mounted upon wood inside, so that their contiguous edges shall be some distance apart; and the roller is moved by clock
work, whose velocity is regulated by a ball governor.  The receiving
apparatus at the other end of the line is the same as the transmitting
one, except, that instead of the strip of perforated paper, there is wound
on the roller A A, a strip of colored paper. This is first soaked in diJlted sulphuric acid, and afterwards in a'solution of prussiate of potassa;
while wet it is wound on the first roller A, where it forms part of the galvanic circuit, and must be kept damp while the message is being sent.
When the machines at both ends of the line are thus arranged, and connected together by wire, with the metallic springs C' C2, attached to a




alvainic battery, the operator at the transmitting end sets it in motion,
like the lock which governs the striking of a clock; this lifts a detent in
the receiving apparatus. at the other end of the line, and puts that in operation. Thus, the two machines unroll their strips of paper at the same
time, and as long as the contact between the springs C' C2, and the second roller B, of the transmitting machine, is prevented by the paper
which has no holes in it passing between them, the circuit is broken. As
-soon as the spring C 1, -comnes over one of the holes in the paper, the cir.
cuit is re-established, and the electric current flowing through these holes,
passes along the connecting wire to the wet roll of paper at the receiving
end of the line.  The electricity passing through the wet paper destroys
its color by chemical action in those parts which it enters, and thereby
makes as many legible spots on the wet roll of paper, as there are holes
in the dry roll at the other end of the wire.  Thus, by alternately renewing and breaking contact by means of the holes in the transmitting roll, as
many corresponding letters, numerals, &c., are made on the receiving roll.
An exemplification of the alphabetical characters employed by Mr. Bain,
is given in fig. 7, which represents at once the perforations which would be
made in the transmitting paper, and the corresponding marks which would
be made in the colored or recipient paper to express the word LONDON,
When it is desired that the attendant at the receiving station should not
know the contents of the message sent, the receiving roll is wet in diluted
acid, passed through the machine, and afterwards immersed in the solu;
tion of prussiate of potassa, which makes the words plain.'The holes are




21
made in the paper by means of a separate machine worked by hand; the
paper passes between two rollers, one of which is a small punch, which
cuts the holes in the paper, and works by the slightest touch. After the
holes are made in the paper, it then has to be wound on the transmitting
roller. The rapidity of this mode of communication depends on the number of holes which a clever hand can punch in a given time, which is
about 100 per minute; after the holes are made, the machine will transmit
from 500 to 1000 impressions in a minute.  Mr. Bain has lately remodeled this machine, by changing the rollers of the receiving apparatus into a revolving disk, in the periphery of which, there are a number
of metallic rods or wires of equal length, which may be made to slidle
towards one side of the disk, or the other, at pleasure.
Fig. 8 is a plan of this modification. A is the edge of the disk; b b the
wires; and C1 C2 springs, similar to those marked with the same letters
in other figures. It will be obvious, that when the disk A is made to
rotate, the springs C' C2 will successively be brought in contact with
the wires b b, on one side or on the other; and that as they are made the
means of establishing the metallic connexion between the two ends of the
line of communication, the effects produced upon the chemical substance
will be the same as before described. In this case, the wires b b serve the
purpose of the holes in the strip of paper, fig. 7.-(London JMechanics'
JMagazine, Vol. xLvI. p. 591.)
"In this form of telegraph," he remarks, "1 have rejected magnetism
altogether, and caused the pulsations of the electric current to be transmitted through groups of perforations, forming signs, which are recorded
at the receiving station by pulsations of the electric current acting on
chemically prepared paper, in the manner described and shown; so that
the circuit is completed, and interrupted, by the operation of the composed
communication itself, without the electric current having to produce any
mechanical motion, and without any manipulation of the operator, in
forming the intermittent pulsations of the electric current; thereby effecting the transmission of a communication to one or a plurality of distant
receiving stations, with far greater rapidity than by any other mode."
This may be true in theory, but it will require more time than the simple passage of the current in practice. For in every case decomposition
of the fluid will take place, and time is required for the operator to see
the mark. If the paper should become dry, as it is known to do, the mark
then becomes very indistinct from the want of proper conducting material;
and as the wire is not of platinum, by becoming oxidized it prevents that
proper metallic contact, so that it will require an intense and constant
current, which cannot be produced and kept up in the form of battery de-.
scribed by Mr. Bain, namely, zinc and copper battery.  There is also the
inconvenience arising from the fumes from the chemicals employed in
preparing the paper.
S. F. B. 3Morse's Electro- Chemical Telegraph, Patented in.May, 1 849.
-"The nature of my invention consists: First: In the application of the
decomposing effects of electricity produced from any known generator of
electricity, to the marking of the signs for numerals, or letters, or words,
or sentences, invented and arranged by me, and secured by patent, bearing date June 20th, 1840; re-issued January 15th, 1846, and again rev




22
issued, June 13th, 1848, or their equivalents, through a single circuit of
electrical conductors.
Second. In the mode of applying this decomposition, and the machinery for that purpose.
Third. In the application of the bleaching qualities of electricity to the
printing of any desired characters.
In applying the decomposing effects of electricity upon any known
salts that leave a mark, as the result of the said decomposition, I use,
Class./. A class of salts that produce a colored mark upon cloth, paper,
thread or other material, under the action of electricity.
First. Iodide of tin in solution.
Second. Extract of nutgalls, and sulphate of iron in solution, making
an ink which colors white cambric cloth a uniform grey.
Third.  Acetate of lead, and nitrate of potash in solution.
Fourth. Iodide of potassium in solution.
Into either of these I dip a strip of cloth or thread, which is kept properly moistened. All these give a black mark upon the cloth, thread, or
other material under the action of electricity.
Class B. A class of salts which color the cloth, paper, thread, or other
material, and are bleached by the action of electricity.
First. Iodide of tin in solution.
Second. Iodine dissolved in alcohol.
Into either of these I dip a strip of cloth, paper, thread, or other material; and if in solution second, I also dip them into a solution of sulphate
of soda, the cloth or other material, in these cases, becomes of a purple
color more or less dark. The electricity in these cases, when a metallic
point or type is pressed upon, or comes in contact with, the moist cloth
or other material, bleaches it, and leaves the point or the type impressed
in white characters upon the material.
Class C. A class of salts that produce a mark upon metal, through the
intervening cloth or other material, and not upon the material, under the
action of electricity.
First. Sulphate of copper in solution.
Second. Chloride of zinc diluted with water.
Third. Sulphate of iron in solution.
Into either of these solutions I dip the cloth, thread, or other material,
and if into the third, I afterwards dip it into muriate of lime in solution.
The electricity in these cases causes a dark mark upon a bright metal
plate beneath the moistened material, but not on the material itself.
The mode of applying this decomposition by electricity, is by the use
of so much of my machinery previously described in the schedule referred
to in the Letters Patent, granted to me and bearing date June 13, 1848,
being the re-issue of the original patent of April 12, 1846, as is employed
in regulating the motion of the paper, substituting, however, for the common paper therein used, the cloth, thread, metal, or other material, chemically prepared.
Operation.-I consider the discoloring process better than the bleaching
process, and for the discoloring process I consider the iodide of potassium
in solution, as the best of the substances I have mentioned for the preparation of the cloth, paper, or other material. I wish it to be understood that




23
I do not confine myself to the use of the substances I have mentioned, but
mean to comprehend the use of any known substance already proved to be
easily decomposed by the electric current.
Claims. What I claim as my own invention and improvement, and
desire to secure by letters patent, is, 1st, the use of the single circuit of conductors for the marking of my telegraphic signs already patented, for numerals, letters, words, or sentences, by means of the decomposing, coloring or bleaching effects of electricity, acting upon any known salts that
leave a mark as the result of the said decomposition, upon paper, cloth,
metals, or other convenient and known markable material.
2d, I also claim the combination of machinery as herein substantially
described, by which any two metallic points or other known conducting
substances, broken parts of an electric or galvanic circuit, having the chemically prepared material in contact with and between them, may be used
for the purpose of marking my telegraphic characters already patented in
Letters Patent, dated 20th of June, 1840; in the first issue, 25th January,
1846; and second re-issue, 13th June, 1848."
The marking instrument of Morse is a platina disk, and is described
fully in the patent, As this apparatus has not been used practically, I have
noticed it here more to keep up the chain of Galvanic Telegraphs, and I
am surprised that Mr. Morse should have taken out a patent for a telegraph so far inferior to the one he has in operation since 1840, as there
cannot be a doubt that the Chemical Telegraph, according to the opinion
of the best operators, is far inferior to the Electro-Magnetic in regard to
trouble, expense, and uncertainty in operation.
"The last patent of Mr. A. Bain, is one taken out in connexion with
Robert Smith, Lecturer on Chemistry, Perthshire, Scotland, October,
1849.
"These improvements consistFirstly. In the peculiar mode of arranging the several parts herein described of our marking instruments of Electro-Chemical Telegraphs.
Secondly. In a mode of constructing a style or point holder, so as to
affobrd a ready and convenient mode of regulating the pressure of the
style or point on the surface of the chemically prepared paper or other
suitable fabric.
Thirdly. In a mode of applying a weight for regulating the pressure of
an upper on a lower revolving wheel, or roller, in motion, so as to grasp
the strip of chemically prepared paper, or other suitable fabric, and ensure it being drawn continually forward,
Fourthly. In a mode of arranging the marking instruments, keys, wires,
and batteries, in a single circuit, and in branch circuits, connected therewith, so that a copy of a message sent from any station may be marked
upon the chemically prepared paper, or other fabric, at any desired number of stations in communication therewith, and also, if required, at the
transmitting station.
We would here state, that the paper, linen, or other suitable fabric,
may be prepared by being equally and thoroughly moistened by the following chemical compound, vlz.: Ten parts, by measure, of a saturated




24
molation of prussiate of potash, which will be best made in distilled water,
and we prefer to use the yellow prussiate for this purpose; two parts by
measure of nitric acid, of the strength of about 40~ by Baume's scale; two
parts by measure of muriatic acid, of the strength of about 20~ by Baum6's
scale.
To keep the paper, or other fabric, in a sufficiently moist state, favorable for the action of an electric current, we add about one part by measure of chloride of lime; this mixture is to be kept stirred about with a
glass rod until the chloride of lime is in complete solution. In connexion
with this compound, it is proper to observe that we have found that
prussiate of potash, combined with almost any acids, will give mark under the decomposing action of an electric current, but no other mixtures
act so quickly, or give such permanent marks with feeble currents of
electricity, as that herein described. The principal use of the chloride of
lime is, that it absorbs moisture from the atmosphere, and thereby keeps
the prepared fabric in a proper state to be acted upon by an electric current in all states of the weather."
"The system of correspondence made use of consists of dots and lines,
the number, dimensions and relative positions of which form an intelligible
code of signals, as is well understood.
We do not claim as our invention the train of wheels constituting the
motive part of the marking instruments; neither do we claim or confine
ourselves to anp particular form of battery or other generator of electricity,
which may be of any suitable form, several of which are well known and
in common use.
We desire it to be understood that what we claim as new and of our
invention, isFirstly. The modes of arranging the several parts of our marking instruments for Electro-Chemical Telegraphs, substantially as herein before
described.
Secondly. We claim the mode of adjusting a style or point holder, as
herein before described and shown, so as to afford a ready and convenient
mode of regulating the pressure of the style or point upon the surface of
chemically prepared fabric.
Thirdly. We claim the mode of applying the weight Q, for the purpose of regulating the pressure, as herein described and shown.
Fourthly. We claim the mode of arranging the marking and transmitting instruments, wires and batteries, in a single circuit, and in branch
circuits connected therewith, so that a copy of a message sent from any
one station may be marked upon chemically prepared paper, or other
fabric, at one or any desired number of stations in communication therewith, and also, if required, at the transmitting station, without requiring
the use of any secondary current."
On the 28th of May, 1850, Messrs. Westbrook and Rogers, the former
of Washington, the latter of Baltimore, secured a patent for the "Electric
Metallic Telegraph." In their specification they state that; —The nature
of our invention consists in recording telegraphic signs on a metallic surface, connected with the earth by a wire conductor at one end, and to a
gals anic battery and the earth at the other end of the circuit, by the use
of the acidulated water or other fluid interposed between the point of




the usual wire conductoir leading from the operating apparatus, connected
wi:h the galvanic battery of the ordinary construction and the metallic
surface, by which the use of paper is dispensed with; titme also being saved
in not having to moisten the chemically prepared paper, when it becres
too dry for use, arlr in having the telegraphic signs more clear and distinct on the metallic surface than on the paper; in avoiding the inconvenience arising from the fuimes from the chemicals employed in preparing
the p iper, and evils arisin, firom the corrosion ofinstrucntnts, and  inlnoyance to operators in preparing and using chemical paper, and other incon veniences.'I'he me allic recording surface, after being filled an(l transferred, is simply cleaned by the application of a sponge or other soft substance saturatedl \Nith acidulated water. The wire conductor has the form of a tulbular pen, of which the fluid flows by means of a barrel valve or sponge
and porous substances, such as glass or ivory, open at bo.b en(ls, through
which the acidulated water or other fluid passes to the metallic surfiacei
on which the telegraphic signs are to be made.
3efbre concludling the subject of electro-chemical telegraphs, 1 would
bring  before  my  readers a communication firoin the  distinguished
French philosopher, the Abbe Moigno, author of' the "Traite de'lf'el
graphie-Electrique, "although not agreeing with the sentiments expresed(l
in my former communication; but I have introduced it in justice to AMr.
Bain, and from respect to the opinion of M. Moigno.
Comtmunication oni the Electric  Telegraph. —T'he President of the
Society for the Encouragement of National Industry, (Session, May 8Rh,
1850,) announced that Mr. Bain had arranged in the hall his ingenious
syslemof elec ric telegraphing, of which M. Sequier bhad duringr a previols
session given a description, which greatly interested the members of' the
society.
The Abbe Moigno was invited to give an explanation of this apparatus,
to which invitation he quickly responded.
In this consists the ingenious mechanism of this apparatus, to which,
the author has given the name of electro-chemical telegraph, to distingui:sth
it from the electro-magnetic telegraphs nowin use, pro{vided it be deprived
of the magnet.
The message wished to be transmitted, is written on a piece of
long narrow paper by cutting with the aid of a punch, the letters of a
very simple alphabet composed of points and horizontal lines.  This
band is rolled on a wooden cylinder, and then unrolls itself with the aid
of a crank, so as to pass on a second metallic cylinder, which supports
four little springs which communicate with the conducting wire of' the
telegraphic line; the metallic cylinder is connected with the pole of a
battery of small volume and very simple construction.
The band of paper presents in turn, a covered part and a vacant space;
this last represents the letters of the alphabet, whilst the covered parts
are of paper, that is to say, an insulating substance.  When the small
springs rest on the cove"rd parts, the circuit is not formed and the current does not pass, but Bssoon as the springs touch an empty place, they
are in contact with the cylinder; from  that time the cotnmunication is
established, the current circulating, and arriving instantaneously at the
3




26
station.  There a small style is attached to the conducting wire of the line;
below this style turns a metallic plate, which is covered with a disk of
paper, chemically prepared by dipping it at first in a solution of sulphuric
acid, and afterwards in a solution of prussiate of potash.  The plate and
the damp disk with which it is covered, communicate with one of the
poles of the battery at the station of arrival.  The current is afterwards
coIImp)leted through the earth.
The despatch is transmitted in the following manner: at a given signal the style is applied to the chemical paper; at every empty space on
the band of paper, which is unrolled by the crank, the current passes,
and under its influence the point of the style, by the chemical action
which it exercises, traces a point or a little line of a very dark color,
which is the faithful representation of the letter which must be reproduced at a distance.
The band on which an entire page is written unrolls itself with
extreme rapidity, the plate, drawn by a clock-like movement, turns also
with great quickness.  After 45 seconds the 1200 letters composing this
page appear very neatly drawn on the disks of the chemical paper, and
were thus fai lithlly reproduced, and would have gone two or three
hundred leaoues further without any difficulty.  The movement printe(t
on the plate is a spiral one, so that the successive lines do not supersede
each other, but remain entirely distinct.
These are the adlvantages which the author attributes to his system of
electro-chemical telegraph: 1st, more economy and simiplicity in the
primitive construction: 2d, more rapidity in the transmission of the
despatches; a single wire with a good insulator can transmit 1200
letters a minute, or 20 letters a second, that is, ten times more than
is customary: 3d, an electric current more feeble than is ordinary, suffices to cause the apparatus to work, and is consequently less exposed to
the chances of interruption by the imperfection of the insulation, which
results sometimes from the vicissitudes of the weather and other circumstances: 4th, more simplicity and economy in the correspondence, and
superintendence: 5th, fewer chances of error in the despatches sent.
Bain's telegraph is in operation in England, from London to Manchester,
and from  Manchester to Liverpool, over an extent of 300 kilornetres,
(1861 miles,) and in America on a line of 2000 kilometres, (1242k
miles.)
The President begs Mr. Bain to receive the congratulations of the
society, on his system of electric telegraphing, and he renders to M.
Abbe Moigno the thanks of the society for the complaisance with which
he has given clear and precise explanations on the mechanism and play
of this system.- Bulletin de la Societe d'Encouragement pour l'lrdustrie JVationale, MJIay 8, 1850, p. 236.
Before giving an account of the various forms of electro-magnetic
telegraphs, it will be proper to give a brief account of the science which
investigates the relations subsisting between the electric, galvanic and
magnetic fluids, as all the forms of telegraph I am about to describe depends
on the power of the electric current to deflect a magnetic needle, or the
power of the current to impart temporary magnetism to iron, or to produce electric currents by magnetic induction.




27
Elsctro-JMagnetissm.-The power of lightning to destroy, and reverse
the poles of a inagnet, and to convey magnetic properties to iron, which
did not previously possess themn, was noticed at a very early periodl of
electrical science, a:,d  led to the supposition, that common el etricity
and galvanismi would produce the same effect.  Attempts were made to
prove this fact, but no important results were obtained, until the late
Prof. CE sted, of Copenhagen, published in'hompson's./Jnnals of Philosophy, for October, 1820, the important discovery he had made in the
winter of 1819, which laid the foundation of the science of electroiagnetism.  He ascertained that whren a wire conducting ele ricity is
placed parallel to a magnetic needle properly siuspended, the needle will
dleviate Ir,;ma its natural prosilion, wlich is t!us expressed in Ampere's
brief and universal terms: "that the north pole of a magnet is invariably
deflcted to the left of the current uwhich pas.;es beuwevn  the needle an] the
observe,', who is to have his face tovar-ds the needle, the elect,ic current
being suppose] to enter near his feet, anc:  to pass out near his head."
Likewise, that this deviation follow, a regular law, which can be stated
in four general rules: 1st. If the need(ll is above the -conducting wvire, and
the electricity passes from right to lef, the north pole of the needle will
be movedf fom  the operator.  2nd. If the needle is below the wire, and
the electricity passes as before, the north plde of the needle will be turned
towards the observer.  3rd. If the ne. die is put in the same horizontal
plane with the wire, and is between the observer antd the wire, the north
pole of it will be eleva'ed. 4th. If the needle is in like manner Ilaced
on the opposite side, the north pole will be (lepressed.  To exhibit this
effect well, the needle must be very near the wire.  Olh r new  and
important fac!s were soon after' liscovered( by Ampbere and Arago, in
France; Davy and Faraday in England, andi our own illustrious Prof.
Henry,.then of Albany, New York.  Ampere satisfactorily referred all
the observed phenomena to the laws which govern the mutual actions of
electrical currents, by means of a very ingenious hypothesis-that magnetism consists in electrical currents, revolving around the minute particles
of a magnet, in planes pierperidicllar to its axis.  This branch o' science
is also name(l electro-dynamics, whi.ch simply means electricity in motion,
while electricity at rest, is called statical electricity.  The laws of electrodynamical attraction anti repulion, experimentally established  by M.
Amphre, anra  which serve to explain all the known phenomena, may be
plaitraly stated in a few general propositions.
Proposition 1st. Parallel currents, (Fig. 9) flowing in the same direction
attract each other, where a b c d are the currents, whose directions are
Fig. 9.                                  Fig. 11.
a. 
4,                   — ____a______6   a
Fig. 10.                       Attractiorn          Repd, ts,^fz       z,d  c i
indicated by arrows.  They mutually repel when their directions are
opposite, as in Fig. 10, a b c d.




28
Proposition 2d. Two currents attract each other when they both flow
towar(ds or from a certain point, if they are not in the same plane, as in
Fig. 11.  And they repel each other, if one approaches and the other
recedes from that point, as in Fig  11.
If two rectilinear currents, a b and c d, Fig. 12, cross each other, then
1by the preceding case they will attract each other between the vertical
Vngles x and y, and repel between z and w.  The resu't will be that
b1)th conductors will endeavor to take up a position in which the currents that flow through them may have a similar direction.
P oposition 3d. These attractive forces vary in their intensity in
Fig. 12.     the inverse ratio of the square of the dis-   Fig. 13.
a    tHTqlcOIn j    tancc-or, as the distance increases, so    A 
/ v'    their force diminishes.... /?      Proposition 4.  The attraction or repulsion exerted by a current passing through
CtuldLoa 7,1?ig   Aalio,   a tortuous conductor, no matter how  nu-    I
merous its windings may be, is exactly
/7}  }!./:  > equal to that which is producel by tlhe
same current when it follows in a straiiht
xradcLOrn 5  line between the points as in shown fig. 13.
I             b   A magnetic needle is a galvanasc(epe, by which the
existence and direction of an electric current may be detected. It was early
employed wx-ith this intention, by Ampere, but, as the  eleflexion took place
only when the opposite ends of the battery were in connexion, and ceased
wvhen the circuit was broken, he inferred that electricity passes uninterruptedly through the battery itself when the circuit is closed, and that there
is no action in the interrupted circuit.
A mainnetic needle will not only indicate the existence and direction of
an electric, current, but may serve by the degree of deflexion as an exact
Fig. 14.           measure of its force.  When used for this
purpose it is called a galvanometer, the
first example of which was invented by
Professor Schweiggrer, of IHalle, in 1820,!'I_- _ —'' _- i? --  -soon after the discovery of electro-mangnetism, and was called by him an electromagnetic multiplier; an example of this
form of instrument is seen in Fig. 14.
Various forms have been given to this instrument, as it is the basis of
a11 the needle tt legraphs.
A current of galvanic electricity not only determines the position. of a
nmaognet, but renders steel permanently magnetic.  This was observed
rearly at the same time, by NM. Arago and Sir H. Davy, who found,
that when needles are placed at right angles to the conducting wire,
permanent magnetism is communicated to them. Sir H. Davy succeeded
in producingt this effect, even with a shock of electricity from a Leyden
jar.  M. Arago, at the suggestion of M. Ampere, made a galvanic conPig. 15.          ductor in the form of a helix, or coil, into
the axis of which he placed a needle, as seen
+ ~,-s;: ~Wx/   in Fig. 15.  This helix was simply a spiral
—' —      C               coil of wire, the extremities of it being connected to the opposite poles of a battery,




29
thus permitting an electrical circuit to pass through it. By this arrangement the current is almost at right angles to the needle, and as each
coil adds its effect to that of the others, the entire action of the spiral
helix is extremely powerful. In this way a needle can be completely
magnetized in an instant, and this is the method now principally employed
by artisans in the manufacture of compass needles.
When the conductors of a galvanic battery are brought near, or in
contact with a quantity of iron filings, the filings will be attracted towards
the conductors, and place themselves in the form of a ring around it.
This action takes place while a current of galvanism  is sent through the
conductor, but as soon as that current is broken they fall off.  By observation of this fact, M. Arago was led to the important discovery of what
is termned magnetic induction by electrical currents.  Namely, that a
current of electricity passing through a conductor will induce, or make
sensible, magnetic action in those bodies near it, which are capable of
being mawgnetizedl.  AraTgo was then the first to forin a temporary magnet.
That this property is mInlnetic, and not simply electrical, is shown by
the fact, that the filings of o.her metals are no;t attracted in the same way.
It li'kewise rentlers s:eel needles permanently magnetic when placed in
the axis of the spiral helix or coil.
The wortl indluction is here used to express that power which electricity has to mike magnetic action apparent to our senses.  Th'at the
effect of the galvanic current upon the iron filings and needles is one of
magnetic indluction, is proved by the reality, that they acquire this property
without contact with, and even  at a lmistan-e from, the cond(ucting wire.
Sfome philosophers have ascribed the frmiltion  of iron filings into a
circle around the conducting wire, to the influence of a magnetic current
revolving  about it perpendicular to its axis, and not to any action induced
in the filin:ts themnselves.  Dr. Bache, the eminent Professor of Chemistry,
in the Jefferson Medical Col!ege of this city, many years ago publicly
advocatedt the idea, that the filingis were not inert agents in this movemnent.  To prove it, he instanced the evidence that when their ring
around  the wire is broken, they immediately fall off, even when a current
of galvanism is progresssing alon(r the conducting wire; he maintained the
opinion that they assumed the ring-like formn, because of the magnetism
induced in them, and the argument he has adduced in its favor is certainly quite conclusive.
Mr. Winm. Sturgeon, a native of London, about the year 1825, discovered that when wires of soft iron were placed within the coil of a
conducting wire, they were rendered in,.nsely magnetic.  (A./nnals of
Philos. Vol. xiI, paage 359.)
Our knowledge of this subject was afterwards greatly extended during
the period from  1828  to 1831, by the researches of Professor Henry,
Secretary of the Smnithsonian Institute, at WT;ashington.
Though soft iron does not retain magnetism, its magnetic properties,
while under the influence of a galvanic current, are very surprising. A
piece of soft iron, about a foot long and an inch in diameter, is bent in
the form of a horse shoe; an insulated copper wire is twisted round the
bar at right angles to the axis, and an armature or keeper of soft iron, to
3.




30
which a weight may be attached, is fitted to its extremities. As may
be seen in this instrument, Fig. 16. On connecting the ends of the wire
with a simple galvanic circle, the soft iron instantly
Fig. 16.     becomes a powerful magnet, and will support a
weight of 50, 60, or even 70 pounds.  As soon as
the galvanic circuit is broken, the iron immediately
loses its magnetism, and the weight drops.  When
the number of coils is increased they give great additional power.  The wire used for making the helix
must be wound with waxed or silk thread, to in~  S        E iliiii  sulate it, so as to prevent the current from skipping
__  -along the contiguous parts of the coil, and thus
taking a shorter route for its circuit, instead of traversing around the bar.
The instrument first used by Prof: Henry, in 1828, to illustrate electromagnetic action, consisted of an iron bar, two inches square, twenty inches
long, bent in a horse-shoe form, and weighing 21 pounds. The keeper
weighed 7 pounds, and 540 feet of insulated copper wire, were wound in
nine coils of 60 feet each around the horse-shoe shaped bar of soft iron.
From the experiments which he made with it, he proved that a small battery
is capable of producing great magnetic effects, if the spirals of the coil
are numerous, and the resistance to the passage of electricity is not very
great. He also showed the effect of varying the lengths of the conducting
wires and the intensity of the current, anti found that six short wires were
more powerful than three of double the length. When the current was
made to pass through?ll of the nine coils, the magnet raised 750 pounds.
After all his investigations, he concluded that we can use long or short
Wires as the case may require.  Where we use long wires, the galvanic
battery must have a number of plates, in order to give projectile force;
on the contrary, a single pair of plates will answer for short wires.
"May it not also be a fact, that the galvanic fluid, in order to produce
the greatest magnetic effects should move with a small velocity, and that
in passing through one-fifth of a mile, its velocity is so retarded as to
produce a greater magnetic action.
"But be this as it may, the fact that the magnetic action of a current
from a trough is, at least, not sensibly diminished by passing through a
long wire, is directly applicable to Win. Barlow's project of forming an
electro-magnetic telegraph, and also of material consequence in the
construction of the galvanic coil.  From these experiments it is evident,
that in forming the coil we may either use one very long wire or several
shorter ones, as the circumstances may require: in the first case, our
galvanic combination must consist of a number of plates so as to give
projectile force: in the second, it must be formed of a single pair.
"The wire used was 1060 feet (a little more than one-fifth of a mile) of
copper wire, of the kind called bell wire, -045 (T40   ) of an inch in diameter, were stretched several times across the large room of the Academy."'(Silliman's Journal, Vol. xrx. January, 1831.)
He afterwards endeavored to ascertain the best form of iron to receive
magnetism, but did not succeed satisfactorily.  However, he found that




31
magnetic power resided wholly on the surface of iron bodies, though a
certain thickness of metal is necessary for Its complete development.Hence the larger amount of iron surface we have, the more powerful will
the magnet be, when all other things are alike. This is the reason that
a bundle of wires will exhibit greater magnetic effects than a solid bar,
containing much more iron.  Bachhoffner of Germany, and Sturgeon
of London, were the first who noticed this fact.
In 1830 Prof. Moll, of Utrecht, made some experiments of the same
nature, and noticed particularly the sudden destruction and reproduction
of magnetism when the current is reversed.-(Bibliotheque Universelle,
1830, p. 19.)
Subsequently, Prof. Henry constructed two of the largest and most
powerful instruments of this kind at present known.  One now in the
cabinet of Yale College, weighing 591- pounds, which sustained a weight
of 2063 pounds; another, belonging to the cabinet of Princeton College,
N. J., of 100 pounds weight, which could support 3500 pounds, or one
and a half tons.
According to our present knowledge of the matter, the power of
an electro-magnet depends on five important conditions, viz. 1st, The
intensity and tension of the electric current. 2d, The number of coils
around the magnet. 3d, The quantity of iron composing the magnet.
4th, The structure of the iron, the purest, softest, and most homogeneous
receiving the most magnetism.  5Lh, The form of the magnet, as cylinders were found to support greater weights than solid bars, and bundles
of wires more than cylinders..Mahgneto-Electricity.-The power which electricity of tension possesses
of causing an opposite electrical state in its vicinity, has been expressed
by the general term induction, which, as it has been received into
scientific language, may also, with propriety, be used in the same general
sense to express the power which electrical currents may possess of inducing any particular state upon matter in their immediate neighborhood, otherwise indifferent; this is the meaning given to it by Professor
Faraday, in his Experimental Researches.  Previous to the experiments
of this distinguished philosopher, certain results of importance had been
obtained by Amper&, showing the induction of electrical currents by his
experiment of bringing a copper disc near to a flat spiral; also his repetition of Arago's experiment, and the wonderful effects produced by
Sturgeon Moll and Henry. Still, Faraday remarks, it appeared unlikely that
these could be all the effects which induction by currents could produce.
These considerations, with their consequences, stimulated him to investigate experimentally, with the hope of obtaining electricity from
ordinary magnetism.
Though baffled in his early attempts, he at last succeeded.in laying
open a new branch of electro-dynamics, which vies in interest and
importance with the fundamental discovery of (Ersted.  "A  copper
wire 203 feet long, was passed in the form  of a helix, around a large
block of wood, and an equal length of a similar wire was wound on
the same block, and in the same direction, so that the coils of each




32
helix should be interposed, but without m'       )ntact, between the
coils of the other.  The two ends of
one of the helices, a and b, as in Fig.           Fig. 17
17, were connected with a galvanometer, and those of the other, at c and d,
with a strong galvanic battery, with
a view  (f ascertaining whether the
passage of an electric current through
one helix, would create or induce a
current in the adjoining helix.  It was                      a
found that the galvanometer needle
indicated a current to have been elicited in the under wire, at the moment
of completing and breaking the circuit but that, in the interval, no deflexion
took place.  And likewise, the induced currents readily magnetized a
sewing needle, while the electric current along the inducing coil was in
the act of beginning or ceasing to flow, but at no other period.  An electric current transmitted from a galvanic battery through a conducting
coil, does not induce a current in an adjoining coil, except at the moment
of making or breaking the circuit.  When the circuit is closed, the
direction of the induced current is opposite to that of the inducing one, but
when it is broken, the direction of both is the same."  To this phenomenon, Professor Faraday gave the name of volta electric induction.
The power of magnetism, to induce or create an electric current in an
adjoining body, is greater than that of electricity itself.  One of the
most convenient of' Professor Faraday's arrangements to represent this
action, consisted of a hollow  cylinder of pasteboard, around which two
compound coils were adjusted. On connecting one of these coils with
a galvanic battery, the other coil moved the needle of the galvanometer,
and magnetized steel needles, as in the experiment just described. But
when a cylinder of soft iron was introduced into the pasteboard case,
and a galvanic current transmitted as before, the effect on the gal-.
vanometer was much greater.  This effect results from the induction of
magnetism  in the bar of iron, which magnetism causes the increased
amount of electricity in the coil connected with the galvanometer.  To
the phenomena in the last experiment, Professor Faraday gave the name
of magneto-electricity.  With such an instrument, he caused convulsions
in the leg of a frog, and when the ends of the induced wire were armed
with charcoal points, sparks of electric-light were obtained at the moment
the galvanic circuit was broken, and closed through the inducing wire.
When a permanent magnet is placed in a coil of wire, a current of
electricity is set up in the wire. While the magnet remains in the coil
at rest, no action is perceptible; but on removing it, another current is
perceived. The currents move in opposite directions. These singular
phenomena, which establish such new and intimate relations between
galvanic and magnetic action, and supply additional evidence in favor of
Ampere's beautiful theory of magnetism, have led to an experiment; by
which, at first view, an electric spark appeared to be derived from the
magnet itself.-Faraday's Researches, d'ov. 1831.
Ampere's theory was, that all magnetic properties of bodies can be re



33
ferredl to currents of electricity circulating around(l each particle of those
bodies.
After Professor Faraday had anntlinced his experiment of obtaining
sparks from  the induced  wire, other at-enlpts were na(le to effect the
same object wirh a magnet, witlhlolt the aid,,f galvanism.  The first
person  who succeeded in Great Britain, was Proftessor Forbes, of Edin-'burgh, who operated with a Inadstonle, which hlad been presented to the'University of Edilnburgh by Dr. Hope.   A  helix of' copper wire was
formed around the middle of a cylindter nf soft ir-on, which was of such
length that its extremities reached lirom  one pole of' the loadstone to the
other.  On applyin,,g anJl withidaraviv.,'   t1h  s{,r iroa cylinder to and
from  the poles of the loadstone, mignelti-In ws,llt-, rnately created and
destroyed within it.  At these periodts of irausitiion, electric currents
were induce(l in the helix surrounding the, sft iron  andl when, at these
instants, metallic contact between the codiclti;ilrg wires of the helix was
broken, an electric spark was vis;ble.'I'he a r;ultcleerit of the apparatus
is shown in Fig. 18, A is the magnret, a b a cylin Irical collector of soft
iron passing through the axis of the helix c, atnd c.)nlnccting the poles of
Fi,. 18.
the magnet.  The one termination d e of the wire passed into the bottom
of a glass tube h, half filled with merctry, in which the wire terminated.
The other extremityf, of the helical wire, communicated by means of
the cup of mercury i with the iron wire g, the fin e point of which may
be brought by the hand into contact wits: the sulrfce of lhe mercury in
h, and separated from it at the instant when the con:act of the connector
a b with the poles of the magnet is effected.  The spark is produced in
the tube h.
In this experment, therefore, the electricity was obtained from the
helix, anti was induced in it by the soft iron, while in the act of acquiring or losinmnagnelism. (Ptl. Trans. cf Ed., 1832.)  The same experiment was performed by Professor Faraday, with a loadstone belonging to Professor Danriel; anti shortly before the experiment of Mr.
Forbes, Nobili and Antinori succeeded with an ordiinary steel magnet.
M. Pixii, of Paris, performed this experiment in 1832, with great effect.
He caused a strong horse-shoe magnet to revolve horizontally upon anl
axis, so that its poles should pass in rapidl succession, in front of a soft
iron armature or keeper of the sat:e form. ( in. de Ch. et de Ph.)  Mr.
Saxton, a native of Philatelphia, bitt at that time residling in London,
made an important improvement upon the apparatus of Pixii.




34
At the meeting of the British Association, at Cambridge, in June,
1833, Mr. Saxton exhibited his ilnprovemellt, which consists in making
he keeper the lighter body revolve, while the magnets remain at rest;
and, secondly, the interruptions, instead of being produced by the revolution of points, were made by bringing one of the ends of the wire over
a cup of imercury, and depending on the jerks given to the instrument by
its rotation for making and breakingr the contact with the mercury. Fig.
19 represents the complete machine.  A is a compound horse-shoe
magntt, composed of six or more bars, and sipported on the rests, b e,
which are screwed firmly on the board, B D, into the rest; e is screwed
on the brass piller c, carrying the large wheel f, having a groove in its
circumference, and a handle by which it can readily be revolved on its
axis; a spindle passes from one endl of the magnet to the other between
the pole, and projects beyond them about three inches, where it terminates
in a screw at h, to which the armatures, to be described immediately, are
attached; at the further extremity is a small pulley, over which a catgut
band passes, by means of whic'h, and the multiplying wheel f, the armatures can be revolved with great velocity.  The armatures as seen at
F, are nothing more than electro-magnets; two pieces of round iron are
attached to a cross piece, into the centre of which the spindle h screws;
round each of these bars is wound in a continuous circuit a quan'ity of
insulated copper wire, one end being soldered to the round disc, i, the
other connctctedl with the copper wire passing through, but insulated from
it by an ivory ring.  By means of the wheel and spindle, each pole of
the armature is brought in rapid succession opposite each pole of the
magnet, and that as near as possible, without absolutely touching.  The
two armatures differ from one another.  The one termed the qiiantityarmature is constructed of stout iron, and covered with thick insulated
wire. The other, the intensity-armature, is constructed of slighter iron,
an(l covered with from 1000 to 2000 yards, according to the size of
the instrument, of fine insulated wire.-(Lond.,5 Ed. Phil. JMag. Vol. Ix,
page 360.)
Fig. 19.
A 




35
The quantity-armature is for exhibiting the magnetic spark, inducing
mnagnerism in soft iron.
The intensity-armature, is employed for medical purposes, and for effecting chemical decomposition.  This arrangement of armatures was an
improvement by`Wm. Clark of London, and was based upon the discoveries
of Prof. Henry of this country, who fobund that an electrical current of
quantity would induce a current of intensity, and on the other hand, that
a current of intensity would make sensible a current of quantity.
According to Faraday, in the wire of the helix of magneto-electric
machines, (as, for instance, in Mr. Saxton's beautiful arrangement,) an
important influence of the principles of' these actions of induced currents,
is evidently shown. From the construction of the apparatus, tlhe current
is permitted to move in a complete metallic circuit of great length,
during the first instants of its formation: it gradually rises in streng,h
and is then suddenly stopped by the breaking of the metallic circuit; and
thus great intensity is given by induction to the eTectricity, which at
that moment passes.  This intensity is not only shown by the brilliancy of
the spark and the strength of the shock, but also by the necessity which
has been experienced of well insulating the convolutions of the helix,
in which the current is formed; and it gives to the current a force at
these moments very far above that which the apparatus could produce,
if the principle of the inductive action of a current were not called into
play.-( Experimental Researches, Dec. 8, 1834, vol. i, page 343.)
Another important improvement, or modification of the magnetoelectrical machine, was made in 1838, by Prof. Page, of the U. S. Patent
Office, According to Dr. Page's plan, two straight keepers, surrounded
by coils of insulated copper wire, revolve between two powerful horse-shoe
magnets, though much shorter keepers are used now than those he introduced.'The steel magnets are fixed, with the south pole of one above the
north pole of the other, at such a distance as just to allow the armatures
to pass between them. The keepers are mounted on each side of a vertical
shaft, in such a manner, that both keepers shall be passing between the
opposite poles at the same time.  They revolve in a horizontal direction
around this shaft, while those before in use, revolved vertically around a
horizontal axis. A little instrument, called a pole changer, was invented
by Dr. Page, of Washington. It is composed of two semi-cylindrical pieces
of silver, fixed on the axis upon which the keeper revolves, but insulated
from that axis, andl from each other. To each of the segments is soldered one end of the wire composing the coil. Two silver springs
press upon these segments, and convey the electricity to the screw cups
or point desired, by means of wires attached to them. The pole changer
on the shaft, conveys the alternating currents in a constant direction to the
screw cups, with which some metallic handles can be put in connexion
for the purpose of giving shocks, &c. His improved form of the machine
is represented in Fig. 20, made by Mr. D. Davis, Jr., of Boston, for
Prof. Franklin Bache, of this city.
"Respecting the efficacy of this machine, the following is the substance of a statement in a letter from Dr. W. F. Channing, of Boston,
to Prof. Hare, of this city.  The unmitigated shocks from this machine
are insupportable. When the wires which break the shocks are removed,




36
the current becomes suiciently uniform to be competent for electrolysis,
or imparting ma.netism  to iion, incdll(led in a long helix of fine wire,
comprised  in tlhe circuit of ihe helices of the machine.  When sent
through a circuit of a miile, the cur'lreint from  this mlachine was found
abundantly colnpelent to woorktile te legraph of Prof. Morse."-(tIare on
Elect, o-Mllagnetissm, i). 131.)
Fig. 20.
In liebig's Annulal report, (Vol it, part 1, page 146,) it is stated
that considerable improvements have recently been made in the magnetoelectric machine.
Sinstedem, (Pogg. Ann, LXxvI, 29, 195, 524,) and Stbh rer, (Ibid, Lxxvit,
467,) have published instructive sugaestions for rendering them more perfect. S',Shrer has employed tlhese ma'hintes, as it appears,with a satisfachory
result, for the purposes of the electric telegraph. (Ibid, 485.) Dujardin,
of France, has also used this instrument before the Committee on Electric
Telegraphs, appointed  by the legislative assembly: the circuit he
employed being 140 leagues, by uniting two telegraphic wires at Paris
and Lille, and employing a singie magneto-electro machine, he caused
his telegraphic machine to work with complete success, transmitting and
printing under the eyes of the commitlee eighty-two letters a minute.
Many observers who have availed themselves of the  magneticelectro apparatus  for the production of electric currents, have observed that the excitaiion of the current (lees not keep pace, as
might have been supposed, with the velocity of rotation.  In numerous
cases, indeed, a maximum of the current-force has been observed to attend a certain velocity of rotation.  This deportment has been explained
by assuming that the product'on and disappearance of the magnetism in
the iron cores requires a certain time.  This explanation has, however,
been proved by Lenz (Petersb..icad. Bull. vii, 257.) to be sufficient for
those cases only, in which the induction-currents set up are of a very low
intensity, when, for instance, they have to pass through a great length of
wire in addition to the coils in which they are developed. On the other
hand, in the case of currents, which have only to surmount comparatively
slight external resistances, their force increases, for equal velocity of




37
rotation the more slowly, and, as this velocity increases, attains a maximum the sooner, the smaller the external resistance.
Lenz accounts for this phenomenon by the reaction of the induced
currents upon the iron cores, by which magnetism  is reproduced in the
latter; the maximum of this magnetism coincides with the maximum  of
the current-force; not, however, for that very reason, coinciding with the
maximum of the primary magnetism of the iron cores induced by the
magnet, it consequently causes a deviation of those points of the rotation
in which the induced current-force is at zero, or a maximum.  The
amount of deviation increases with the force of the current, and consequently with  the velocity of rotation.  It is therefore clear, why,
in the commutators of the machine, which are empirically adjusted
for the  developement of the greatest current-force, (always in the
same direction.) the change does not take place at the moment when the
iron cores are opposite to the poles of the magnet; if the matter be only
superficially examined; this is the instant at which the iron cores might
be supposed to have attained the greatest possible degree of magnetism,
and at which the induction in the copper wires would be at zero.
ELECTRO-MIAGNETIC TELEGRAPHS.
When (Ersted's splendid discovery was announced) and it was seen
that feeble electric currents would produce a variety of magnetic actions,
electrical telegraphing received a new impulse, and numerous forms of
telegraphic apparatus were proposed, of which I will now endeavor to
give an account, describing each step in the progress of discovery, and
commencing with.nmpere' s Telgraplh.
In 180O, Ampere, in consequence of a suggestion of La Place, was
led to (devise the first telegraph, employing the deflexion of the magnetic
needle, by the agency of the galvanic fluid, which, however, it appears
that he (lid not carry out practically.  Ilis plan was to have as many
magnetic needles as there are letters of the alphabet, which might be
put in action by the passage of currents through metallic conductors, made
to communicate successively with the battery, by means of keys, which
could be pressed down at pleasure, and might give place to a telegraphic
correspondence that would surmount all distance, and be as prompt as
writing speech to transmit thought. —72nn. de Chem. et de Phys. xv. 73.
The second telegraph was suggested by Peter Barlow, F. R. S., in
1825, that an instantaneous telegraph might be established by means of
conducting wires and compasses.-Edinburg Philos. Joiur. Vol. xii. p. 105.
In 1828, Victor Triboaillet de Saint Amand proposed to establish a telegraphic line from Paris to Brussels, by a metallic wire, about a line or a
line and a half in diameter.  He recommended to cover the wire with
shellac, upon which was to be wound silk, very dry, which should be
covered with a coating of resin. The whole was then to be put into
glass tubes, carefully luted up with a resinous sustance, and secured by a
last envelope, then varnished over and hermetically sealed; then, by
means of a powerful galvanic battery, he would communicate the elec4




38
tricity to the conducting wire, which would transmit the current to the
opposite station, to an electroscope, destined to render sensible the slightest
influence, and left to each one to adopt at pleasure, the number of motions
to express the words or letters which they might need.-Report of
Ilcademy of Industry, Paris, from Vail's E..M. Tlegraph, p. 138.
Fechner's Telegraph.
Fechner, of Leipsic, in 1829, in his hand book of galvanism, remarks, that there is no doubt that if the insulated wires of twenty-four
multipliers, corresponding to the several letters of the alphabet, andl
situated at Leipsic, were conducted under ground to Dresden, at
which place the battery were situated, we could thus obtain a means,
probably not very expensive, comparatively speaking, of transmitting
intelligence from one place to the other, by means of signals properly
agreed on before hand.
I confess it is a very seductive idea, to imagine that by future development of a system of such connexions at some time, a communication
between the central point and the parts of a country can be established,
which shall consume no time like communication between the central
point of our organism and its members, by means of the nerves by what
appears to me a very analogous arrangement.-Lehrbuc/ des Galvanismus p. 269.
"Dr. Ritchie, in a lecture at the Royal Institution, London, in 1830,
endeavored to illustrate the suggestion of Ampere, and exhibited a model
of a telegraph constructed after his description; the arrangement was,
however, very complex from the number of wires employed, &c., and
Dr. Ritchie was not sanguine as to the ultimate practicability of the
scheme."-Journal of the Royal inslitution, p. 183.
Schilling's Telegraph.
In 1832 and 3, Baron Schilling, of Caunstadte, a Russian Counsellor
of State, had occupied himself with an electro-magnetic telegraph.'The
Baron, who was attached to the Russian embassy, at Munich, at the time
when Svmmering was engaged with his galvanic telegraph, already described, was much interested in the experiments of the latter, and shortly
after Egrsted's discovery of the deflexion of the magnetic needle, Schilling was led to devise a needle telegraph, which consisted in a certain
number of platinum wires, insulated, and united in a cord of silk, which
put in action, by the aid of a species of key, 36 magnetic needles, each
of which were placed vertically in the centre of a multiplier. Schilling
was the first who adapted to this kind of apparatus, an ingenious mechanism, suitable for sounding an alarm, which when the needle turned
at the beginning of the correspondence, was set in play by the fall of a
little ball of lead.  An improved form of his instrument was exhibited at
the Bonn meeting of naturalists, by Dr. Munke, in 1835, (Isis. XNog. 1836,)
and is described in detail, in Gehler's Physikalisches Wiorterbuch, 1838,
vol. Ix, iii. In this improved instrument, light discs of card board, attached to magnetic needles enclosed in galvanometer coils, are moved
by the galvanic or magneto-electric current. Five similarly prepared




39
magnets, arranged so that the round disks of card-board were only seen
edgeways, were connected by wires with the distant source of electricity;
according to the direction in which the current was sent, the magnet was
deflected to the right or left, in the one case showing to the observer, the
one side, in the other case, the reverse of the card-board disc; thus ten
separate signals were obtained, which by reference to a telegraphic dictionary, gave any required number of signals."
"Professor Henry, Secretary of the Smithsonian Institution, Washington, says, that in 1832, nothing remained to be discovered in order to
reduce the proposition of the electro-magnetic telegraph to practice.
I had shown that the attraction of an armature, could be produced at any
distance, and had designed the kind of a battery and coil ardund the
magnet to be used for this purpose. I had also pointed out the fact of
the applicability of my experiments to the electro-magnetic telegraph.
I make a distinction between the terms discovery and invention.  The
first relates to the development of new facts; the second to the application
of these or other facts to practical purposes."-Ho use Case, p. 93.
Gauss and WTeber Electro-.Magnetic JNeedle Telegraph.
Counsellor Gauss and Professor Weber, two of the most illustrious
philosophers of Germany, to whom the science of magnetism is deeply
indebted, entered nobly into the list in establishing, by means of electricity, telegraphic communication between the Astronomical Observatory,
Physical Cabinet, and Magnetic Observatory, at Gottingen, the first notice
of which is found in GUt. Gel. Anz., 1834, 1273, and in 1836, Schumacher Jahrback, p. 38-39. It consisted of a double line of wire carried
over the houses and steeples at Gottingen. It was constructed chiefly for
the purpose of being able to make investigations respecting the laws of
the force of galvanic currents on a large scale, under different circumstances. The circuit employed in 1833 was about nine thousand feet; and
in 1834 or 1835, at least fifteen thousand, but part of this wire was
reeled.  The form of wire employed was mostly copper, of the size
known in commerce as No. 3, of which a length of one metre weighs
eight grammes; the wire of the multiplier in the Magnetic Observatory
was of silvered copper, No. 14, of 2'6 metres to the gramme.
They first employed galvanic electricity by employing small sized
plates, and found that the action was much increased by adding to
their number.  They repeated and perfected their first form of telegraph,
by applying the phenomenon of magnetic induction, discovered
by Prof. Faraday.  The divers movements or the slow oscillations of
magnetic bars, caused by the passage of the currents, and observed by
the aid of a glass, furnished to Gauss and Weber all the signals which
they wished in corresponding, but the number of signals which could be
transmitted was few, and the time occupied by each considerable.
The main apparatus was a magneto-electric machine, and to this,
Counsellor Gauss adapted a peculiar arrangement, by which the direction of the current can be reversed by a single pressure of the finger.
Professor Weber had a delicate apparatus for setting off an alarm of a
clock, placed at the side of the magnet in the physical cabinet, by means
of the current conducted from the observatory.




40
The telegraphing apparatus consisted of the following parts:
1. The apparatus for generating the galvanic current.
2. The apparatus for observing the given signal.
3. The apparatus for the sudden reversing of the current, or the commultator (pole changer).
In the column A, fig. 20, are two or three strong magnet bars
Fig. 20.           (each of 25 pounds) united in one strong
magnet-their poles of the same name
ii B!AL                    (like poles) are visible at B. Over these
fi:  _ bars the reel E is placed (of course having
-2711     a hole for the bars to pass through),
and around its external surface a copper
wire  (insulated  by silk winding) is
wound.
At the first arrangement. Gauss gave
the reel 1050 coils; by a fate arrangeI  I I I           ment, he increases the number of coils
to 3537, with a length of wire of about
3600 feet; and still later, he used a reel
with 7000 coils with a length of wire of more than 7000 feet.
The two ends, g gt, of this reel, E,'which on account of their inductive
action are called inductors) are in connexion with a commutator (pole
changer), and through that with the two principal conducting wires of the
telegraph. If the inductor is taken by the two handles F F', and suddenly drawn off the magnet bars on which it rests, and immediately,
without turning it round, replaced in its former resting place, there results
two induction currents, one immediately after the other, in opposite
directions, passing through the conducting wire; the duration of these
currents is very short.  Their intensity depends upon the strength of the
united magnets in A, upon the number of coils in the inductor E, and
upon the distance these coils are from the magnets.
Fig. 21 represents the abserving apparatus.
Fig. 21.
In~~\II ~ ~ ~ ~  ~     ~    ~    n
liil P11&-~~- m-.




Whilst the inductor is set up at the station whence the signal is to be
telegraphed, the observing apparatus is placed at the station where the
communication is to be received.
It consists of a strong nzldtiplicalor, H H, that is to say, of a copper
frame, around which an insulated wire is coiled.  The two ends of' the
wire gg are connected with the two chief conductingc wires coming from
the o her station, so that the multiplicator wire forms with the wire coiled
on the inductor E, fig. 20, a single closed wire circuit.
At first, the nmultiplicator had 270 coils of wire, 2700 feet long; in later
trials, it had 610 coils of wire, more than 6000 feet long.
In the coils of this multiplicator, there hangs for a magnetic needle a
magnetic bar, MI  I, of at most 4 pounds in weight (later, 251b. magnetic bars were used), which is suspended by a thread easily movable in
the little ship L. This thread consists of 200 parallel cocoon threads, and
is fastered to a wooden screw, P Q P, at the ceiling of the room, by
which it can be raised or loxwered.
On the brass rod K, which passes through the copper frame H H, there
is a vertical Inirror, N, which turns with the magnet, and is directed in
such a manner towards the cyp/her scale, m m, fastened at the foot of the
stand of the spy-glass, R, that the image of the parts of the scale can be
seen in the mirror through the spy-glass.
3. The apparatus contrived by Gauss for the rapid change of the direction. of the current was somewhat complicated-but any other simple
commutator can be used for the same purpose.
The following is the mode of using this telegraph: At the station from
which a communication is to be sent, the inductor E, fig. 20, is suddenly
dIrawn off; and again, without turning it round, thrust down upon the
mnagnet pole B, by which means two induction currents of opposite
directions are passed through the conducting wire.
By means of the first current, the magnet in the observing apparatus,
fig. 21, at the other station, throlgh the action of the multiplicator's coils,
is made to diverge in a determined direction, for example, to the right.
By means of the second current in the opposite direction, it is immediately
s-opped, so that the magnet can make no further excursions, but only, in
consequence of the two opposite currents, makes a little lively vibration
to one side, and then immediately remains quite still.
These small motions of the magnet are observed through the spy-glass
R, fig. 21, in the mirror N.
In a state of rest, the image of the null point of the scale, m m, is
visible through the spy-glass; by the motion of' the magnet, the mirror is
also moved, and reflects to the spy-glass another part of the scale.  In
this manner, the smallest motion of the magnet is perceptible by the
spy-glass.
Accordingly as the commutator (which is directly attached to the
inductor) is fixed, thefirst induction current passes in one or the opposite
direction through the conducting wire-and  therefore, by a sudden
drawing off and thrusting down of the reel E, fig. 21, a magnetic vibration to the right or left at the other station can be produced at pleasure.
By an ingenious combination of several magnetic motions, to form a
sigTnal, Giuss and Weber were able to make all requisite signs (letters
and cyphers) with these two amotions (first blows).         4*




42
The following are the alphabetical signs, as arranged:r   =  a rrr-ck   rl -=m  rr r=w  11r  = 4
1   =  e rrl -  d rll = n rrll = z Illr  -- 5
r r     i rlr r   fv rrrr = p r l r 1=0 1 rl = 6
rl  -  o Irr-? g rrrl = r rllr = 1 Irll = 7
1 = -    u 111 -  h rrlr = s Irrl =- 2 r 1  1 -= 8
11  -- b llr =  1 rlrr - t Irlr - 3 1111 = 9
The variations of the magnetic needle signify a letter; I denotes a variation to the left, and r to the right, and by the combined deflexion of the
needle, words and sentences may be transmitted.
Experiments of Jessrs. Taquin and Ettieyhausen.
Messrs. Taquin and Ettieyhausen made experiments with a telegraphic
line over two streets in Vienna, 1836. The wires passed through the
air and under the ground of the Botanic Garden. —Polytechnic Centra.
Journal, 1830, Vail Electro-JIagnetic Telegraph, p. 189.
MORSE'S ELECTRO-MAGNETIC TELEGRAPH.
In the latter part of the year 1832, Samuel F. B. Morse, an ingenious
American artist, while on a voyage homeward from Europe, conceived
the idea of an electric or electro-chemical telegraph, and devised a system of signs for letters, to be marked by the breaking and closing of the
electric or galvanic current.
Dr. C. T. Jackson, of Boston, a fellow passenger, well versed in the
science of chemistry and electricity, and having witnessed numerous
experiments during a recent visit to Paris, afforded him considerable
assistance.
The following is a brief account of the methods proposed:1st. That electricity might be made visible in any part of the circuit,
by dividing the wire, when a spark would be seen at the intersection.
2d. That it could be made to perforate paper if interposed between
the disconnected wires.
3d. Saline compounds might be decomposed, so as to produce colors
on paper.
The 2d and 3d projects were adopted for future trial, since they
would furnish permanent records; the saline substances mentioned, were
the acetate and carbonate of lead, which when decomposed by the galvanic current, left black marks on the prepared paper; again, tumeric
paper, moistened in a solution of sulphate of soda, left brown marks on
the passage of the current, produced by the disengaged alkalie. Platina
points were also proposed to effect the changes in color.
Mr. Morse experimented for some time after arriving in New York,
independent, however, of Dr. Jackson.  While on board the Sully, Dr
Jackson doubtless materially aided Mr. Morse in his conception of the
electric telegraph, though they do not appear to have had any subsequent
connexion, nor was the instrument they devised brought into practical
use.
From a careful examination of all the evidence given by the passengers
on board of the packet ship Sully, the telegraph devised by Morse
and Jackson was not an electro-magnetic telegraph, but an electric or




43
electro-chemical telegraph (see letters of Dr. Jackson to Mr. Morse,
and Morse's pamphlet, and letters of J. Francis Fisher, Esq., of
Philadelphia). Mr. Morse cast some type in 1833, but from limited circumstances, was compelled to desist from farther experiment, until his
appointment to a professorship in the University of New York, in 1835,
when he formed the annexed mechanical arrangement, which is interesting from the fact, that it is the basis on which a long series of improvements have been made to bring the instrument to its present unique
construction. He exhibited it in January, 18/6, to Mr. L. D. Gale, a colleague professor in the University, of high scientific attainment, who
afterwards joined Mr. Morse in his enterprise, and made some useful
suggestions for its improvement. But becoming satisfied that the electromagnetic power was more available for telegraphic purposes, as exemplified by the experiments of Prof. Henry and his own trials, he directed
his attention to that agent. Mr. Gale gives the following description of
the instrument, in his evidence in the case of F. O. J. Smith versus Hugh
Downing:Fig. 22.
A,_                                       1 7 9
I
---,q' i:' P'R T  RULE Xt
5  6           2 3   o          4



44
"A train of clock wheels were used to move a strip of paper, one half
an inch in breadth. A, B, and C, are cylinders; the paper is unrolled
from passing over the cylinder B to C, where it is connected to the clock
work D, moved by the weight E. F is a wooden triangular shaped
pendulum, suspended from the pivot f, over the centre of the cylinder
B; its vibrations were across the paper, or at right angles to the motion
of the latter. Through two cross-pieces in its lower part was fixed a
pencil case, containing a pencil moving readily up and down, but kept
in contact with the paper by a light weight, g.
An electro-magnet was fixed on the shelf h, which projected from the
frame XX; this magnet attracted an armature affixed to the pendulum.
One of the conductors of the magnet helix, passed to the single plate
galvanic battery I, while the other joined the cup of mercury at the port
rule K.  The other pole of the battery was connected by a wire to the
other cup of mercury J.  The lower table represents a port rule; it consists of a rude frame containing two cylinders L L, two inches in diameter
and two inches long, one turned by a crank, and that turning the other
by a band one and half inch in width.
M1, is a rule or composing stick, made of two small thin rules, two feet
long, placed side by side, separated sufficiently far to form a trough for
the type; the tops or cogs of the latter, are seen rising above the top of
the rule M. A lever 0 0, is suspended from the united top of two standards that rise from the sides of the long frame of the post rule, on one
end of which is a fork of copper wires that plunges when the lever is
depressed into the two mercury cups K and J. A weight is attached to the
other extremity to keep it down, and beneath this is a tooth, similar to
the keys of a hand organ.  There were eleven types one-eighth of an inch
thick, having from one to five projections called cogs, save one that was
used for a space. The first five numbers consisted from one to five cogs
respectively, followed by a space, while the second five were the same,
only having a long space double that of the first.
If, as an example, it was desired to send the number 456, the types
4, 5 and 6, with a space to separate them from the successive ones, were
set up in the port rule M, which was placed on the bands of the port rule
and sent forward by turning the crank; the cogs of the type operating
the lever O 0, broke and closed the circuit at the battery I; this being
done, the magnet h, attracted the pendulum F, and moved the pencil g,
about one-fourth of an inch; the pencil being in contact with the paper
while it was movi-ng, a continuous straight line was marked on it if the
pendulum was stationary either at one or the other limit of its motion;
but when attracted by the magnetic force, it marked a V shaped point as
seen in the drawing; the points were marked on the moving paper as
there shown by the successive breakings and closings of the circuits
through the cogs of the type; the extremities of the V shaped marks were
recognised for the figures by their number."
A dictionary was prepared, in which words were arranged in a manner
that the numbers would represent them.
Mr. Morse found himself unable to make use of his instrument for
great distances, from the resistance to, and dissipation of, the electrical
current along the conductors. To overcome the difficulty, he adopted in the
spring of 1837, a receiving magnet and a relay or repeating circuit. We




45
do not know by whom this was suggested, but its principle is based on the
discoveries made by Prof. Henrys relative to the intensity magnet.
Prof. Gale, Dr. Fisher, and Mr. Chilton, had referred Prof. M. to these
investigations of Prof. Henry. Prof. Wheatstone, of London, exhibited
to Profs. Henry, of Washington, and Bache, of the U. S. Coast Survey, in
February, 1837, a repeating circuit which was closed by the deflexion of
a galvanometer needle.
Fig. 23.
20 miles.                   20 miles.
U1                             1
The one used by Mr. Morse is represented in the accompanying diagram. By means of the receiving magnet, the current of one battery
was used to set off that of a second, the second a third, and so on, the
last circuit being as strong as the first.  1 is a battery at one terminus of
one line of conductors representing twenty miles in length; from one
pole of which the conductor proceeds to the helix of an electro-magnet
at the other terminus, (the helix forming part of the conductor;) from
thence it returns to the battery and terminating in a mercury cup O.
From the contiguous mercury cup, p, a wire proceeds to the other pole
of the battery.
When the fork of the lever O, unites the two cups of mercury, the
circuit is complete, and the magnet f is charged, and attracts the armature of the lever d, which connects the circuit of the battery 2 in the
same manner, which again in turn operates the lever e, twenty miles
further, and so on.
Publicity was given to it through the columns of the New York Observer, on the 15th of April, 1837, in consequence of all announcement
that MIessrs Gour and Serveil had produced an instrument of miraculous capacity, to transmit information, which was, however, only an
example of the visual telegraph; it was likewise noticed in the New
York Journal of Commerce of April 27, 1837.
In September of the same year, an exhibition of the instrument working through 1700 feet of wire, was given at the New York University,
to numerous visiters, among whom were some eminent scientific gentlemen. An account of this was given in the New York Journal of Commerce,
of that date.
The ability of the instrument was so skilfully displayed, that Messrs.
George and Alfred Vail were induced to "interest themselves in the
invention, and furnish Prof. Morse with the means, material, and labor
for all experiment on a larger scale;" at this time operations were cominenced at the Speedwell Iron Works, near Morristown, New Jersey.
On the 10th of March, 1837, the Hon. Levi Woodbury, then Secretary
of the Treasury, issued a circular, requesting information in regard to the
propriety of establishing a system of Telegraphs for the United States.
Prof. Morse sent three replies to this circular, containing an account of




46
his invention, its proposed advantages, and probable expense, with a description of the kind of conductors required; two of these letters dated
respectively, September 27th, 1837, and November 28th, 1837, were
included in a report of the Secretary to the House of Representatives,
on the 6th of December, 1837.  In this report, Mr. Woodbury gave a
favorable view to the subject of telegraphing.
Some extracts from Prof. Morse's letters, will show how far real progress has exceeded his expectations at that time, and the modifications
that have since been made.
September 27th, 1837. —"The principal expense will be the first cost
of the wire, or metallic conductors, (consisting of four lengths,) and the
securing them against injury.  The cost of single copper wire lg of an
inch in diameter, (and it should not be of less dimensions) for 400 miles
was recently estimated in Scotland, to be ~1000 sterling, including the
solderings of the wires together, that is, $6 per mile for one wire."
"Iron tubes enclosing thewires, and filled in with pitch and resin, would
probably be the most eligible mode of securing the conductors from
injury, while at the same time it would be the most costly."  "Iron
tubes of 14 inch diameter, I learn, can be obtained at Baltimore, at
28 cents per foot. The trenching will not be more than three cents
for two feet, or about $75 per mile."  "If the circuit is laid through
the air, the first cost will doubtless be much lessened."   " Stout
spars of some thirty feet in height, well planted in the ground, and
placed about 350 feet apart, would in this case be required, along the
tops of which the circuit might be stretched. Fifteen such spars would
be wanted to a mile.  This mode would be as cheap, probably, as any
other, unless the laying of the circuit in the water should be found the
most eligible." "I presume that five words can be transmitted in a
minute; for, with the imperfect machine I now use, I have recorded at
that rate, at the distance of half a mile."
VNovember 28th, 1837.-"We have procured several miles of wire, and
I am happy to announce to you that our success has, thus far, been complete.
At the distance of five miles, with a common Cruikshank's battery of 87
plates, (4 by 31 inches each plate,) the marking was as perfect on the
register as in the first instance of half a mile. We have recently added
five miles more, making in all ten miles, with the same result, and we have
no doubt of its effecting a similar result at any distance."
The instrument was partially described in Prof. Silliman's Journal of
October, 1837, which was afterwards copied in the November number of
the Journal of the Franklin Institute of the same year, and the London
Mechanics' Magazine of February, 1838.
A mo(lel enclosing a circuit of ten miles of insulated wire wound upon
two reels, was finished in the latter part of the year 1837, and intended
for an exhibition before Congress. This was soon after shown in the
Hall of the Franklin Institute of this city, where it was subjected to the
inspection of a committee appointed to examine it; its operation was
eminently satisfactory to them, and they did it the honor to give the
subjoined favorable report:
"The Committee on Science and the Arts constituted by the Franklin
Institute of the State of Pennsylvania, for the promotion of the Mechanic




47
Arts, to whom was referred for an examination, an electro-magnetic telegraph, invented by Prof. F. B. Morse, of the city of New York, reportThat this instrument was exhibited to them in the Hall of this Institute,
and every opportunity given by Mr. Morse and his associate, Mr. Alfred
Vail, to examine it carefully, and to judge of its operation. *  *  *  *
"As exhibited to us, it was very satisfactory.  The power given to the
magnet at the register, through a length of wire of ten miles, was abundantly sufficient for the movements required to make the signals.  The
communication of this power was instantaneous. The time required to
make the signals was as short at least as that necessary in the ordinary
telegraphs. It appears to the committee, therefore, that the possibility of
using telegraphs on this plan, in actual practice, is not to be doubted,
though difficulties may be anticipated which could not be tested with the
trial made with the model.
"One of these relates to the insulation and protection of the wires,
which are to pass over many miles of distance, to form the circuits
between the stations. Mr. Morse has proposed several plans; the last
being to cover the wires with cotton thread, then varnish them thickly
with gum elastic, and enclose the whole in leaden tubes. More practical,and economical means will probably be devised; but the fact is not to be
concealed, that any effectual plan must be very expensive. Doubts have
been raised as to the distance to which the current of an ordinary battery
can be made efficient; but the committee think no serious difficulty is to
be anticipated on this point. * * * *
"An experiment is said to have been made on the Birmingham  and
Manchester railroad, through a circuit of thirty miles in length.
"It may be proper to state, that the idea of using electro-magne ism for
telegraphic purposes has presented itself to several different individuals,
and that it may be difficult to settle among them the question of originality.
"The celebrated Gauss has a telegraph of this kind in actual operation,
for communicating signals between the University of Gottingen and his
magnetic observatory in its vicinity.  Mr. Wheatstone, of London, has
been for some time also engaged in experiments on an electro-magnetic
telegraph.  But the plan of Prof. Morse is, so far as the committee are
informed, entirely different from those devised by other individuals, all
of which act by giving different directions to magnetic needles, and would
therefore require several circuits of wires between all the stations.
"In conclusion, the committee beg to state their higfh appreciation of
Prof. Morse's telegraph, and the hope that means may be given him to
subject it to the test of an actual experiment made between stations at a
considerable distance from each other. The advantages which this
telegraph would present, if successful, over every kind heretofore used,
make it worthy of the patronage of the government.  These are, that
the stations may be at a distance asunder far exceeding that to which
other telegraphs are limited, and that the signals may be given at night,
and in rains, snow, and fogs, when other telegraphs fail.
"By order of the Committee.
"WILLIAM HAMILTON, Actuary.
"Philadelphia, February 8, 1838."




48
It was subsequently taken to Washington, and, kept in successful operation for several months in the room of the House Committee of Commerce,
where it was visited by multitudes of people.
The examining committee were propitious to it, and in a warm and
ardent report made on the 6th of April, 1838, urgently advised that it
should be subjected to an adequate trial.
Prof. Morse sent in a caveat to secure his invention in October, 1837,
filed his specifications, and made application for a patent in April, 1838,
but withdrew them afterward, that he might be enabled to obtain patents
in the European countries. Hon. F. O. J. Smith, a member of Congress,
from Maine, was so interested in it, and sure of success, that he left his
seat there, and joined Prof. Morse in a trip to Europe, in May, 1838.
From the peculiar construction of the English patent laws (which require
that the instrument should not have been published), he was unable to
obtain a patent there, and though he secured one in France, it afforded
him no profit, as his funds were too limited to bring it into operation
within two years-the time specified in their patent regulations.
Though he failed at that time to remunerate himself as a momentary
speculator, the instrument attracted the attention of scientific men in
both countries, who accorded him much merit for the skilfulness of the
invention.
It was put in operation at a meeting of the French Academy of Sciences,
September 10th, 1838, and a description of it published in their weekly
journal, the " Comptes Rendus."  On account of the disordered financial
condition of the country, and his own restricted means, no farther advancement was made after his return, until June, 1840, when he secured
his first patent, which was given on the specifications of April, 1838, for
the rude instrument already described, including a second electro-magnet
used to give an alarm, without the improvement up to the former date.
Unable to proceed further on a more extensive scale of experiment, he
procured the support of prominent scientific men in a petition to Congress during the December Session of 1842.  Prof. J. Henry, in a deposition made in March, 1850, states of Mr. Morse as follows:'"Shortly after my return from Europe, in the autumn of 1837, I learned
that Mr. Morse was about to petition Congress for assistance in constructing the electro-magnetic telegraph; some of my friends in Princeton,
knowing what I had done in developing the principles of the telegraph,
urged me to make the representation to Congress, which I had expressed
some thoughts of doing, namely, that the principles of the, electro-magnetic telegraph belong to the science of the world, and that any appropriation which might be made by Congress, should be as a premium for
the best plan, and the means of testing the same, which the ingenuity of
the country might offer. Shortly after this, I visited New York, and there
accidentally made the personal acquaintance of Mr. Morse. He appeared
to be an unassuming and prepossessing gentleman, with very little knowledlge of the general principles of electricity, magnetism, or electro-magnetism. He made no claims, in conversation with me, to any scientific
discoveries, or to anything beyond his particular machine and process of
applying known principles to telegraphic purposes.  He explained to
me his plan of a telegraph, with which he had recently made a successful




49
experiment. I thought this plan better than any with which I had been
made acquainted in Europe. I became interested in him, and instead of
interfering with his application to Congress, I gave him a certificate in
the form of a letter, stating my confidence in the practicability of the
electro-magnetic telegraph, and my belief that the form proposed by
himself was the best that had been published.
"Mr. Morse subsequently visited Princeton several times, to confer
with me on the principles of electricity and magnetism, which might be
applicable to the telegraph. I freely gave him any information which I
possessed."
In respondence to his petition, Congress appropriated $30,000 for the
purpose of testing its practical application.  Thus enabled to prosecute
his favorite theme with a freer element and more liberal spirit of investigation, he had the great gratification to exhibit to the American people
his invention, working in an eminently successful manner, for a distance
of forty miles, between the cities of Baltimore and Washington, in the
month of June, 1844.
Prof. Morse has obtained for his instrument several distinct patents;
the first was dated June 20, 1840; there were many important modifications introduced, such as a signal lever key substituted for the port rule,
and a lever in the register in place of the pendulum, when it was exhibited
before Congress, in 1838; this was re-issued January 15, 1846. A second
patent was taken out on the 11th of April, 1846, containing the above
alterations, with the addition of a local circuit and register, receiving
magnet and adjuster, self-regulating break, the metal pen points, and
grooved rollers for them to work in.
The device of the local circuit in the Morse Telegraph -was founded in
part upon the experiments of Prof. Henry, who had previous to this,
"opened the circuit of a large quantity magnet at Princeton, when loaded
with several hundred pounds, by attracting upwards a small piece cf
movable wire, by means of a small intensity magnet, connected with a
long wire circuit and an intensity battery."
The re-issued patent of January 15th, 1846, and the patent of 11th of
April, 1846, were both re-issued on the 13th of June 1848, and another
patent containing improvements in the electric Telegraph was taken out
on the 1st of May, 1849.
The line between Baltimore and Washington, is the only one constructed under governmental patronage, the remainder having been
projected by private enterprise; the patentee being allowed one half the
stock for the use of the patent, as his share of the investment; the capital
invested in them up to January 1st, 1850, was nearly $400,000, exclusive
of the patent right, upon which Prof. Morse up to that time had receiv ed
some $30,000.  The machine at present in use, consists of three main
portions, the transmitting and receiving apparatuses with the connecting
circuit.
The spring lever key as at present used in the Morse Office, was suggested by Mr. Thomas C. Avery, of New York, but has received various
5




50
modifications; in Fig. 24, we have a view of its present improved form:
Fig. 24.           it consists of a nicely balanced lever,
supported on standards raised from a
small block of mahogany; thumb
screws are fixed to each extremity
of it, that on the longer arm being used
for the operator to play upon, and the
shorter one to adjust the distance of
the connecting surfaces; on the short
arm is attached a spring to keep those surfaces apart when not pressed
together by the operator; the connecting surfaces called the hammer and
the anvil, the former on the lower surface of the long arm of the lever,
the latter on the mahogany support, are faced with platinum; they are
respectively connected with the opposite poles of the galvanic circuit,
and by their contact or separation, the circuit is united or broken.
If this key is at an intermediate station, by means of the screw on the
short arm the surfaces are kept together; the circuit may be closed
when not in use; this permits communications to be sent through the
office between stations on each side of it, or rather it keeps the main
circuit continuous; when operating, if they are merely touched, a point
is made at the receiving station, if kept together any time a line is produced whose length is governed by the period of contact; the circuit connexions are beneath, one below the anvil, the other under the screw.
The receiving magnet is an intensity one, surrounded by a helix of
Fig. 25.               very fine wire, 3000 feet or
more in length, having the
horse shoe form, and fixed in
a horizontal position.  The
main circuit passes through
this helix unbroken to the
next station; an armature is
fixed to a vertical movable
standard, opposite the poles
of this magnet, in such a manner that by means of a spring and adjusting screws, it cannot come in
actual contact with the magnet, nor yet is it so far removed as to be beyond its influence; the object of this delicate suspension, is that the armature may be approached to or withdrawn from the magnet's influence
according to the intensity of the current; much of the operator's skill
depends on the management of this adjuster, as the varying electrical
agencies of the atmosphere and generating forces of the batteries are
constantly operating to increase or diminish its intensity.
The support of this armature forms part of the local circuit, the horizontal rod above another part, and that circuit is closed, by the attraction
of this armature to the poles of the magnet, through the horizontal rod
above, terminating in a platinum face, opposite another one fixed on the
horizontal support above the magnet; the connexions of the local circuit
are through screws seen on the right; when the current flows through
the main circuit the- receiving magnet attracts the armature, and thus




51
closes the local circuit, the only place where it is open being above the
horizontal bar over the helix: the local circuit is confined entirely to the
office where it belongs, passing through the local battery and the helix
of the register magnet, being distinct from the main; the registering
apparatus has or should have, a quantity magnet of a horse shoe form,
fixed vertically, the open extremity upward; the object being to indent
impressions upon paper; force, rather than delicacy, is requisite. The
figure from Davis' Manual of Magnetism, represents the mechanical
Fig. 26.
action of the instrument; above the poles of the magnet, is an armature
attached to one end of a movable lever, which has on the upper surface
of the other end, a metal point which fits into a groove of a roller above
it; the passage of the galvanic current making the magnet attract and
depress the armature, raises the points at the other extremity, and makes
an impression on the paper in dots or lines, according to the duration of
the current; a spring is used here to withdraw the armature from the
magnet after the cessation of the current, which must be so arranged, as
not to carry the armature too far from the magnet, or let the points too
deep into the groove; a lead pencil was first used, afterwards a pen with
an ink reservoir, which was laid aside for the hard steel points; the impressions on the paper resemble the raised printing for the blind; the
connexion with the local battery is made through the screw caps on the
right hand.
Fig. 27.
_    M6
"Fig. 27 represents the arrangement and relations of the magnets, batteries, and circuits: R M  representing the small magnet, m c the main
circuit of indefinite extent, M B the distant battery, K the key which
breaks and closes this extended circuit; 1 c and LB represent the local
circuit and battery, M the helices of 9t register magnet included in the
circuit, which, as the standards, S S, are metallic, is broken only at the
points ab. Now, the least possible space between these points effectually
interrupts the current, and as they are covered with platinum, a very
slight contact is sufficient to establish the connexion. The little instrument




52
is so delicately adjustable, that often, when the breath would stop the
vibrations of the lever, the circuit is broken and closed with certainty and
regularity; this is also shown on a larger scale in figc. 28."
Many forms of this instrument have been devised, some with the
levers vertical; in others, the magnet was attached at one end, and the
style at the other end of a shaft working through a horizontal tube.
The figure (28) slightly amended, from one in the Phrenological Journal, March, 1851, represents the whole combination of the registering
apparatus and its connexions with the main and local circuits, together
with the distant and local operating keys.  The register occupies the
centre of the picture, being supported on two standards: T is a spool
carrying a roll of paper; this paper is prepared by manufacturers
fbr this especial use, by winding it into large rolls, and dividing it
into smaller rolls of one inch or more in width by a knife, while it is
revolving in a lathe; from this spool the paper is drawn between the two
rollers x and y, which are turned by means of the weight U, moving the
clock work above it; D is the register magnet, E the lever, having the
armature at L, and its axis or fulcrum to the left of it, also at the extreme
left, the style playing in a groove of the lower surface of the wheel y;
S on the right, is a screw to limit the motion of the style, a distance of
one-eighth of an inch being usually allowed; it also contains a spiral
spring below, to separate the armature and magnet; the paper is dealt
off steadily from the spool, and a momentum is prevented by springs fixed
on the axis of the spool between the latter and its standards; formerly a
break was suspended from the lower surftce of the lever upon some of the
clock wheels below, to permit and arrest their motion, but this is now
supplied by the small jack V setting into the cogs of the w'heel W, the
swiftest one in the train; this the operator pushes down immediately on
the reception of a signal and the weight U sets the whole in motion,
drawing the paper off the spool between the rollers x and y, the style
impressing on it the required characters, and it rolls finally into the vessel
on the left, ready to be read at the convenience of the receiver.
In the earlier forms an alarm was appended to call the attendant's attention, but this is thrown aside, as the click of the register answers the purpose; some experienced operators become so accustomed to this click that
they can declare the message without referring to the character made by
the style; thus it becomes phonetic, and operators conversing at vast
distances, can make the little instrument by its varied action, slow, rapid,
or impetuous, give expression to the different feelings of the mind; each
office has its own peculiar signal, known to all the rest on the line, and
an answer is expected as soon as it is given.
The machine is wound up by a key fixed to the axis of the largest
wheel on the left; some guides are used to conduct the paper beneath
the style with such regularity that several communications may be print-.ed parallel to each other on the same strip.




B           ~~~~~~Fig. 28.
r~~~~~iT~~~~~~~~~~    T~~I 
ii               a                                                    F~~~b~~'o
cr3  ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~c




The peculiar form of magnet used in the registering department, is
seen in the diagram No. 2, to the right of the register. A, A, the circuit
connexions; C C, lower extremities of the soft iron bars, which are joined
together; H H, reels of the helices around the iron; F F, the upper ends
of the soft iron, having opposite polarities; P, the point of connexion
between the wires of the two helices; E, the armature; B, above represents the operating key of a distant office, situated on the main line, with
the attendant in the act of transmitting a communication; 0, the main
line coming from the distance; A, the battery on that line; Groves'
battery is mostly in use, 30 cups of which are necessary in a space of
150 miles; they may be kept in one body, but it is better to distribute
them at intervals along the line; they require cleansing and replenishing
about once a fortnight. After passing through the key, the main circuit
follows the course of the arrow to the receiving magnet C on the right,
traverses the helix of that, and issues again from it, continuing its course
to the right, to the next station, and so it might go on indefinitely, or
around the world; N, is the local operating key through which the line
passes in the same manner as at B; this is the entire relation of the main
circuit to an office; it makes the receiving magnet close the local circuit,
and it will do it not only at one station, but at all on the same line, and
at the same time; so that an operator in Philadelphia, can transmit his
message to St. Louis, and drop it at all the intermediate stations at one
and the same moment; this has actually been performed.
Only one wire is now used on the main line, the earth affording the
return circuit; No. 3, shows it very well; one end of the line may be
supposed at Philadelphia, the other at New York; M M, receiving magnets of the two stations; K K, the operating keys respectively, P and N,
the positive and negative poles of a battery on the line: C C, plates
where the wires terminate in the ground: the connexion of the wires to a
gas pipe, will answer every purpose; the arrows represent the direction
of the current; G, that portion of the ground forming the circuit. By
having two wires, one connected respectively to the keys and magnets
of the different offices, communications may be sent both ways at the
same time, but only one current can traverse the same line at once.
The local circuit Z is short, simple, and effective, being closed by the
receiving magnet; C the current starts firom the local battery R, consisting
usually of from two to three cups, that must be cleansed every morning for
efficient operation, runs through the helix D, back to the receiving magnAt in the course of the arrow to the local battery; this causes the style
to raise and make an impression on the paper; the whole operation then
is very simple; the key depressed at a distant city or station, B causes
the receiving magnet C, at Philadelphia, to close the local circuit: the
i.ron of the helix IJ is made instantly magnetic, and the style goes against
the paper, and stays there as long as the key is kept down at B. A simple contact makes a dot ('), a longer time a line (-). Considerable experience is requisite to make a good operator, either to transmit or read
messages; some, however, become quite proficient after three months
tuition; the interval between the times of contact, is regarded as well
as the letter, for by its length, letters, words and sentences, are distin



55
guished from each other; the adjoined table contains the Morse Telegraphic characters.
A  -         J   -        S ---         Numerals. 9
B ---        K    -       T-           1        
C —-         L            U —         2
D    --      M            V —-         3
E -         N             W -- W      4
F ---        0            X —--        5
G    --     P —           Y    --      6H ----      Q -z-         Z ---        7 
I --        R - --        &... 8
If an operator at Philadelphia, wishes to send a communication to
Baltimore, he first breaks the main circuit by opening the operating key
at his station. All the receiving magnets in that circuit cease to attract
their armatures, the spring draws them away from the magnets, and thus
breaks all the short office circuits.  The Philadelphia operator then
makes the signal for Baltimore, by tapping on his key, the proper number of times; this produces a clicking of the registers, which is heard and
understood in all the offices on the line, though none but the Baltimore
operator pays any regard to it.
Then the Baltimore operator opens his transmitting or operating key,
and breaks the main circuit in another place, so that the Philadelphia
operator cannot operate his main circuit, which the latter discovers by
the silence of his own receiving magnet when he operates his key; he
then closes his key to permit the operator at Baltimore to return an
answer.
The Baltimore operator closes his key, sets his clock work in motion, and returns word that his Philadelphia correspondent may send his
communication, which the latter hears, and goes to work accordingly.
If the Philadelphia operator wishes to telegraph his message to several
or all the stations on the line, he makes in succession, all the signals of
those offices, and awaits their replies; after receiving them all, he commences to operate, and the communication is received by every one of
them at the same moment.
The daily performance of this machine is to transmit from 8000 to 9000
letters per hour; there are a number of attendants needed about an
oflice transacting much business, each one of whom has his respective
department: they are divided into "copyists, book keepers, battery keepers, messengers, line inspectors and repairers"; the usual charge of
transmission is 25 cts. for ten words sent one hundred miles; the messages vary in value from 10 cts. to $100; the amount of business which a
well conducted office can perform, and the nett proceeds arising therefrom, may well excite our surprise; a single office in this country with
two wires, one 500, the other 200 miles in length, after spending three
hours in the transmission of public news, telegraphed in a single day, 450
private messages averagitlfg 25 words each, besides the address, sixty of
which were sent in rotation, without a word of repetition.'The public journals, however, often contain notices of errors committed
by the operators on these lines, which, from their importance, have
been the cause of considerable complaint amongbusiness and newsmen.
This is variously attributed to careless attendants, disarrangement of the




56
circuits, or the alphabetic combination, which renders the best receivers
and copyists liable to mistake; this is not all, for instances can be cited
where messages sent immediately, as the clerks promised to do, would
have answered the desired end, but being delayed three hours, were
utterly valueless.
Several important things are necessary to the successful operation of
the instrument; skilful manipulators, good batteries and machines, and
more than all, thorough insulation of the conductors; the latter can never
be completely accomplished, as the best non-conductors will conduct in
a slight degree. Copper wire first employed, has, on account of expense, been laid aside for iron, of which 300 lbs. are required to a mile:
the method of insulation consists in winding them around glass knobs,
passing them through caps of the same material, or enclosing them
throughout with gutta percha.
"The figure shows the methods of attaching them to glass caps, by.Fig. 28.            supporting the wire from their side
(1,) or resting them in a groove on
the top (2,) these  caps fit over
I::": I!wooden or iron pins, which  are
fastened on the top of horizontal
cross bars, or driven into the side of
the post; two blocks of glass in the
X3     form of a parallelopiped, and dovetailed together in such a manner,
4iii/i  [ ]a                 as to let a wire, without any other
fastening, slide through a central
opening; the glass being surround]i'          lr    ed anrid protected by wood; the!: i?. 11l         most recent method consists of glass
A ~   i;.!!i!  blocks, fitted in cast iron caps and
~Bi~                 supported on the peg by a heavy
glass tube (3.)   The caps, of
whatever form, are either upon crossbars, or supported by iron staples
driven into the post."'
Notwithstanding these precautions, by the contact of wires blown
about by winds, moisture, &c., connexions are made through the ground
or otherwise, and a short circuit is formed, instead of going the entire
route of the line, or part of the current of greatly diminished intensity,
pursues the latter course.
The following method of ascertaining the existence of a break, or
forming connexions with different offices at will, is well described by
Mr. Chas. T. Chester of New York, in Silliman's Journal, Vol. v. 2d,
series. It has been found that the intermediate offices on a main line.
are of great utility in determining the situation of the breech.
If the circuit is broken on one- side, a current is at once obtained from
the battery of the unbroken side, and the accident found is repaired.
The diagram shows how to apply this test, and the method of dividing
the long line into sections. The black dots, A B C D, in Fig. 31, represent
brass terminations of conductors, sunk on a level with the surface of the




57
operator's table; a metallic button, fig. 30, plays over their surface. This
Fig. 30.    button connects each brass stud with its opposite, and a
Ad_- ~      change in its position changes the direction and channel of
the current at pleasure.'rhus, the intermediate operator
wishes to break anti close the "through circuit, (this is synonymous with Inain circuit,) he turns his button, bringing B
in contact with D; the course of the current can be easily
trace(l. But again, cutting off his left hand neighbor, he wishes to converse with his right, the button changed so as to connect A with C, the
current passes directly to the ground through his instruments.  Supposing
a binding screw at S, the left or right hand wire may thus be brought in
connexion with the ground.  The buttons 1, 2, and 3, are simply used as
convenient duplicate keys, or circuit closers, when the operator is re
ceiving."
Fig. 31.
A, 
When the line is found deranged at an intermediate office, by the evidence of a current unnaturally strong or weak, the impression is that the
wire is broken at one or both sides of the office. Supposing the wire
continuous from one end of the line to the other, and a battery at each,
the current passes through the intermediate magnet without interruption,
and the circuit established is termed a "through circuit."  When a derangement is perceived, the intermediate operator alters the through
circuit, and by connecting with the ground, makes two short circuits.
Several methods have been devised to obviate the disastrous consequences that sometimes result from violent electrical action during thun(ler storms, such as the melting or breaking of wires, total destruction of
long distances of the circuit, injury to office furniture or the operators
connected with it; among the most important of which are those that
combine the readiest communication with the ground to convey away the
superabundant fluid; one is to have the circuit closer of a receiving magnet, employed for this sole purpose, pass into the earth; another is the
metallic connexion with the surface of a brass ball, surrounded by a ring
situated in and forming part of the circuit, from the inner circumference
of which minute metallic points project towards, but do not quite touch
the ball; both of these, however, are inefficient at times.
Professor Morse, has (leservedly received the highest approbations of
the American people for the invention that not only calls forth wonder at
its accomplishments, but has proved itself an invaluable agent in political
economy.  Excepting efficient and economical batteries, most of the
discoveries in this department of science had been made, which were
essential to a proper foundation of his invention; some hand was necessary to elicit the remaining facts, combine and give them  a mechanical




68
arrangement and application, and then to thrust it before a distrustful
public, to solicit the attention and patronage of the government for the
proper attestation of its merits.
It was novel to the American people; no one had projected the thing
here successfully, though many had thought of, and some tried it; through
Professor Morse's indefatigable perseverance, the adjuvant resources of
science were united in the form of utility; though dependant for most of
his information upon others, he had the confidence in its final success, to
master opposing obstacles, and bring to his aid, those who had labored
honorably and prosperously in the progress of knowledge.
Wheatstone and Cooke's NV'eedle Telegraph.
In 1834, Professor Wheatstone published a beautiful series of experiments on the velocity of electricity, which I noticed in the first of these lectures on the Telegraph.  This seems to have had an influence in directing his attention to the subject of the Electric Telegraph. During the
month of June, 1836, in a course of lectures delivered at King's College,
London, he repeated his experiments on the velocity of electricity, but
with an insulated circuit of copper wire, the length of which was now increased to nearly four miles; the thickness of the wire was Q1~  of an inch.
When machine electricity was employed, an electrometer placed on
any point of the circuit diverged, and wherever the continuity of the circuit was broken, very bright sparks were visible. With a voltaic battery,
or with a magneto-electric machine, water was decomposed, and the
needle of a galvanometer deflected in the middle of the circuit. Prof.
Wheatstone gave a sketch of the means by which he proposed converting
his apparatus into an electrical telegraph, so that, by the aid of a few finger
stops, it would instantaneously and distinctly convey communications between the most distant points. The apparatus, as it is at present constructed, is capable of conveying thirty simple signals, which, combined
in various manners, will be fully sufficient for the purposes of telegraphic
communication.-Jioag. Pop. Sci., 1836.
This was Prof. Wheatstone's first telegraph, and having matured his
plans, he took out a patent on the 12th of December, 1837, which was
sealed on the previous 12th of June, 1837, in conjunction with M/Ir. W.
F. Cook, who had devoted much of his time and attention to the practical application of the Electric Telegraph.
The principle on which this telegraph depended, was that of combining several peculiarly constructed galvanometer needles. It was an
application of the famous discovery of Professor (Ersted of the deflecting
influence of an electric current upon a magnetic needle, which I have
already explained in a previous lecture.
"A signal board was employed, having five vertical galvanometers
with double needles, the lower ends of each being slightly the heaviest,
so as to ensure at all times a vertical position, except when deflected by
the current. From the ends of these needles lines were drawn, both above




59
and below, as in fig. 32, and at the points where these lines intersected,
Fig. 32.         letters and numbers were placed.  When
an electric current was transmitted so as to
deflect at the same time two of the needles,
they indicate, by their convergence, one or
other of the letters marked on the signal
board.  Thus, if the first and fifth needles
converged above, they pointed to A, if below, to Y; or if the first and fourth converged above, they indicated B, and so on.
The signal boards were placed at either
-- (~ =;, > end of the line of telegraph, having a bat\, \  /aM / tery and keys so arranged as to render it
/X    Oc\'/ \          easy to deflect at pleasure any of the five
T /      \ W/   1 galvanometer needles at the distant station:',4 /'/   ~x\~/,75(   / the two sets of galvanometers being connected by six wires, one for each separate
needle, and one as a return common to
them all.  The keys used to connect these
wires with the battery were very simple,
and at the same time perfectly efficient.
The arrangement consisted of five copper bars, thin enough to be elastic,
fastened to a cross-piece of wood, as at A, fig. 33, an(l connected with
ZFit 33.         the five wires of the telegraph, whilst
_._, _ —_ _ A                    their other ends pressed slightly,
8| } *'r'Xr'.: _                (but so as to be in good metallic
-/';lvcontact,) against a cross-piece of
-f j    copper, B. The terminal wires of
the voltaic battery were attached to
two small bars of metal, C D, and in the five longer bars, just where
they crossed the battery bars, C D, there was a row of small metal pins,
terminated with little ivory knobs.  When it was desired to deflect any
of the needles in the signal boards, all that was necessary was to press
the ivory knobs above those bars, in connexion with the needles to be
deflected; the slight pressure, by bending down the bars, insulated them
for the time by breaking the contact at B; and the metal pins, by coming
in contact with the cross bars C and D, became connected at once with
the battery. By this simple arrangement the keys, though always ready for
immediate use in sending a signal, were not any obstacle to receiving
one, as the bar B, always completed the circuit of all the wires, except
at the moment of using the telegraph, and then by the contrivance just
described, it was thrown out of connexion.  The wires of this first telegraph were insulated in tubes by means of a mixture of cotton and India rubber; then the prepared wires are all passed with certain precaution through iron pipes, which on some parts of the line were buried beneath the ground, and in others raised above it. It was afterwards elevated on wooden posts, as the moisture affected the wires, and destroyed
the instlation.  The battery employed by them was that of a vessel of
copper, with plates of zinc, and acidulated water.
In order that the telegraph could be practically used, it was essential




60
that some simple means should be employed to call the attention of the
operator when a message was about to be sent, as the movement of the
needles made no sound.
In order to overcome the difficulty presented by the very small
amount of power which would be transmitted to a long distance, and
which was not sufficient to make an electromagnet of any power, and
thus discharge an alarum, he placed a second battery at the distant station, having wires connected with a powerful electro-magnet attached to
an alarum, or arranged so as to strike a bell as soon as the battery was
brought into operation. But, as the circuit was broken, the battery,
though charged with acid, and therefore ready to act, could not exert its
magnetising power on the electro-magnet unless the circuit was completed.  The current of electricity from the distant station from whence
the intelligence was to be transmitted, though not powerful enough to
make an electro-magnet, was abundantly powerful enough to complete
the circuit of the second battery, thus waiting to be called into action.
This was effected by a small piece of copper wire attached to a cross
piece fastened to a delicately suspended vertical galvanometer; when
the latter was deflected by even a feeble electric current, the copper
wire, by having its ends plunged into two cups of mercury, completed
the circuit of the secondary battery, causing the electro-magnet to attract
its keeper, and thus let off the alarum  to ring the bell. The general
form of the arrangement is represented in Fig 34, which I have taken
from a published lecture by Professor E. Solly of London, on the telegraph, which drawirg proves correct on comparing it with the original
in the patent.
Fig. 34.
A
E F are the wires conveying the electric current from the distant station; D, the vertical galvanometer deflected by its influence; A, the
secondary battery thus brought into action, and B, the electro-magnet
which is made to act on the bell, C.
The line of telegraph upon the Great Western Railroad was finished
in July, 1839, and had been in operation about seven or eight months.
Thirty signals may be conveniently made in a minute. According to
Professor Wheatstone, on his examination before a Parliamentary Committee on Railways in 1840, he states, "I have been confining the attention of the Committee to the telegraph now working on the Great
Western Railway, but having lately occupied myself in carrying into
effect numerous improvements which have suggested themselves to me,




61
I have, conjointly with Wm. Cooke, who has turned his attention greatly
to the same subject, obtained a new patent for a telegraphic arrangement, which I think will present very great advantages over that which
at present exists. This new apparatus requires only a single pair of
wires to effect all which the present one does with five, so that three
independent telegraphs may be immediately placed on the line of the
Great Western; it presents in the same place all the letters of the alphabet according to any order of succession, and the apparatus is so extremely simple, that any person without any previous acquaintance
with it can send a communication and read the answer."
Mr. Saunders, the secretary of the Great Western Railway, states the
expenses of constructing the electrical telegraph on the line of that railway to have been from ~250 to ~300 a mile; whereas, the old form of telegraph in use between London and Portsmouth, independent of the original outlay, costs about ~3300 a year; and the lines of telegraphic communication to Plymouth, to Yarmouth, and to Deal, were abandoned in the
year 1816, on account of the expenditure for their maintenance.-Civ.
Eng. and IArch. Jour.
According to the Tyne Mercury, the electric telegraph on the South
Western Railway, from London to Gosport, cost about ~24,000.
Professor Wheatstone specified a second patent for improvements, in
the name of Mr. Cook, Oct. 18, 1838, still making use of the deflexion
of needles as the signals em-              Fig. 35.
ployed, and using only two
wires instead of five, and a
combination of the two ele-               /ZZ
mentary instruments. It has,                             8
two pointers, each worked by                       OL <      MU,
its distinct handle, and gave         cc           H       kN
eight single signals, and a suf-      JJJ 
ficient number of compound
ones to admit of the twentysix letters of the alphabet
being used. By further conventional signs those letters
are made to represent figures;
and by blending both systems, a mixed sentence, con-        9
sisting of passages from a                           sY
code, spelling and figures,)  \
could be telegraphed together. The general form of
the dial is shown in Fig. 35.
Behind this dial a magnet is
fixed on the same axis as the needle, so that both move together. A portion
of the conducting wire is coiled many times longitudinally round a frame
in which the magnet moves; by this contrivance, the magnet is subjected
to: the multiplied deflecting force of the voltaic current. The motion of this
magnet is limited by fixed slops placed at both sides. The simple signals
are given by the movement of the needles, either singly or combined.
6




62
Thus the left hand needle moved to the left gives E, to the right I: the
right hand needle moving to left gives 0, and to right gives U. If both
converge upward at the same time, their combined indication is A, and
if they converge downwards it is +. If the pointers are made to rest
parallel to each other in one direction, W is meant, and in the other direction they indicate Y. The consonants most in use are given by two
movements of the needle, and those rarely required, such as J Q X Z,
by three movements. C and U are generally used for K and V, but
not necessarily.
Wheatstone's telegraph cost per mile ~100.  (.Mech..Mag., 1838.)
This telegraph, which is the useful and scientific invention of Mr. Cook
and Professor Wheatstone, has now been in operation for nearly twelve
months; all the wires are enclosed in hollow tubes, not more than about
an inch in diameter.-London JMining Journal for 1840.
The American patent for Electro-magnetic Telegraph, Charles Wheatstone and Wm. Fothergill Cook. Patent for fourteen years from 12th
June, 1837, that being the date of the English patent.-Franklin Inst.
Jour., Third Series, Vol. i. p. 120, AHugust, 1840.
The'American patent was of no benefit to the patentees, as it was
never practically employed in the United States, Prof. Morse's instrument being the chief one in use from 1844 to 1846.
The defects in the practical working of his first and second telegraph
led Prof. Wheatstone to devise a new form of telegraph, called by him
an electro-magnetic telegraph, in January, 1840. The principles employed in this new instrument are well exhibited in Fig. 36 (Daniells'
Elements). "It consisted essentially of an electro-magnet surrounded
Fig. 36.         with a long and fine wire, A, and a keeper of soft iron, B, prevented from coming
i7_~.         in complete contact with poles of the
magnet, but so near as to be within reach
of the attractive power of the magnet
"1z TE: -4`S _         when the latter is under the influence of
$  the current.
I    The motion of the keeper was made
use of in various ways to communicate
-''O ~ signals.  In Fig. 36 it is represented as
acting by a species of clock escapement
>-_____ _ g-___!d      on a small ratchet wheel, and thus causing the rotation of a light disk of paper or
-_ _  ___    mica, E, on the circumference of which
E__-: — ---— the letters of the alphabet, or other signals,
___-__    __  are marked. In the diagram, part of this.... m       a disk is represented, which resembles very
=__________-____   =much the signal dial of Mr. Ronalds, and
is on the same plan. It is in part cut
away to show the position of the ratchet
wheel behind. The ratchet wheel resembles one invented by Burgengeiger, a,=          Cc  German, to which he had attached an
electric clock, as described in the JMorgan Blatter, of September 23,




1815, and quoted by Mr. Ronalds in his work on electricity, published
in 1825. Every time that an electric current is transmitted from a distance by the wires C D, and they may be made to succeed each other
with great rapidity, the disk is advanced one tooth of the wheel, and
consequently another letter; and when the electric current is interrupted,
the keeper being no longer attracted, is drawn up again to its original
position by a spring, and the disk advanced another letter. The whole
instrument is inclosed in a case, having an aperture in front, which only
permits one letter at a time to be seen. In using this telegraph, the
instrument is always placed at the commencement with the sign of a
cross only visible, which is before the letter A, on the round disk; if
it is then wished to indicate the letter H, it is necessary to transmit four
separate electric currents, in order to attract the keeper four times, and
so cause the disk to move round eight divisions, the letter H will be
exhibited.  The transmission of the currents is managed by a little
instrument represented in Fig. 37. It consists of a horizontal brass wheel,
divided and marked on its upper surface like the disk of the telegraph,
with which it perfectly corresponds; the circumference of this wheel is
Fig. 37.
//4
cut away in twelve places, and filled with small pieces of ivory. A
metallic spring, b, pressing against the circumference of the wheel, is
alternately in contact with the metal of the brass wheel and the ivory
pieces when the wheel is turned round. When the instrument is not in
use, the cross at the commencement of the alphabet is always placed
opposite to the stop d, as in this position alone the metallic spring, c, by
pressing on a small piece of metal connected with the stand a, cuts off
the connexidn with the battery, and therefore leaves the telegraph in a
fit state to receive signals from the distant station.  As soon as the
wheel is moved from this position, the battery is brought into connexion,
and as it is gradually turned round, the required number of interrupted
currents is transmitted to the magnet. In the circumference of the brass
wheel a number of iron pins are inserted, one corresponding to each
letter, and, therefore, by taking hold of the pin corresponding to the
letter we wish to indicate at the distant station, and rapidly turning the
wheel till stopped by the cross piece at d, we cause the letter disk of the
telegraph to revolve the required amount.
The preceding is one of the simplest forms of this telegraph, but the
power is applied in many ways; thus, in place of moving the letter disk




64
it may remain stationary, whilst a light hand or index only, is caused to
revolve; or in place of an electro-magnet being used, the mere deflexion
of a vertical galvanometer may be employed for the same purpose. But
as it was found that a telegraph of this kind, though excellent for short
distances, was not so suitable for long ones, a modification was adopted,
in which the power required was greatly diminished, and the delicacy
of the telegraph much increased. In this form a powerful clock movement, acted on by a strong spring, was employed to rotate the disk or
index, the attraction of the keeper being only used to regulate the
escapement, every current releasing a single tooth, and so allowing the
clock movement to advance the disk one letter.  He employed a
magneto-electric machine instead of the battery, also doing away with
the "communicator."  Fig. 38 shows a vertical representation of one
of the machines used for this purpose, consisting of a permanent magnet,
A, an armature of soft iron, B, surrounded with coils of copper wire,
and connected with the binding screws, E F. The armature can be
made to revolve by the action of the larger wheel C, on the pinion D,
which is thus caused to revolve just so many times by one revolution of
the wheel C, as will give rise to the number of currents requisite to turn
Fig. 38..13
the telegraph disk once round. The whole of this instrument is inclosed
in a box, and the axis of C, which rises through the top of the box, carries a solid brass wheel, G, having handles corresponding to the letters
of the alphabet, and signals of the telegraph disk. I extract from the
London.frtisan, Vol. iii. p. 247,for oVbv., 1849, an account of the present condition of this telegraph in England, by Francis Whishaw, Esq.
The construction of the telegraphs, chiefly used in England, may be
thus described:-Along the sides of the various railways (for by this system it is wise to have the telegraph wires protected, as far as possible, by
a constant supervision) wooden vertical posts of fir timber are ranged
at convenient distances. Each post is furnished with an insulator of
earthenware, through which the wires are drawn, to prevent their connexion with the wooden posts. The wires are of stout galvanized iron,
which are carried from one end of the railway to the other, except in
passing through tunnels, or under bridges. In such cases, the insulators
are attached to the brickwork; and thus the wires are prevented from
being in contact with the brickwork.  Each post is furnished with a
lightning conductor, and is also capped with a wooden roof, with dripping eaves to throw the rain water from the wires.  At each end of the




65
telegraphs, the line wire is connected with an earth battery, consisting of
a large plate of zinc or copper, buried in the earth-the object of which
is to avoid the necessity of a return wire, which in the first telegraphs in
England was made use of.  At the various stations, one or more of
Cooke and Wheatsone's needle instruments are set up, being connected
with the line wires and batteries by wires of smaller size, generally
covered with silk or cotton, which is easily destroyed by the alterations
of weather, and, therefore, is objectionable.  Each telegraph on this
plan has two wires. The batteries used are of the most simple form,
consisting of a trough, divided into any number of cells, according to
the power required. Alternate plates of zinc and copper are connected
throughout the pile, which dip into sand, saturated with dilute sulphuric
acid-the use of the sand being to prevent waste of the acid in the battery, when required to be sent from one station to another ready charged.
The signals are given by means of the needles, placed in front of a dial,
on which are written or engraved, the letters of the alphabet, being
moved either to the right or to the left. Each needle in front of the
dial is placed on the same axis as a magnetic needle behind the dial,
which latter is suspended freely in a space, surrounded by a coil of wire,
through which coil, when the current is transmitted either in one direction or the other, the needle is deflected either to the right hand or to the
left, as may be desired; so that, by a certain number of movements of
each needle, and by the combination of the movements of both, every
letter of the alphabet, or any numeral, is given.  As many as thirty letters, under ordinary circumstances, are thus transmitted in a minute; but
by expert manipulators many mnore. Although the requisite movements
are easily learned, yet it requires many weeks for a telegraphist to work
the needle instrument sufficiently well to be entrusted with a communication of any value, whether for railway or commercial purposes; moreover,
it is requisite that the two persons communicating with each other should
be equally advanced in the required manipulations. Some of the boys emp1oyed by the Electric Telegraph Company, have acquired wonderful rapidity in the transmission of messages; while I have known many persons
give up the occupation altogether, although having no other employment
to resort to. In case of a telegraphist attending the needle instrument being
suddenly disabled by illness or otherwise, great inconvenience must be
experienced, by reason of no one being at hand to take his place; whereas
by other instruments, as that of Siemen's, &c., which can be worked by
man, woman, or child, at five minutes' notice, this inconvenience is done
away with.  The exposure of the wires to atmospheric influence-to
storms of snow, as lately experienced on the South Eastern Railway —to
the destructive effects of trains running off the way, and to the dlestruction of the wires by malicious persons (rewards for whose apprehension
have frequently been offered), are all fatal objections to the present English system ever becoming universal.  Moreover, the expeuse to railway
companies and others is a sad drawback to the further extension of this
system in Great Britain and Ireland-for the railways of which alone an
extension of at least 2000 miles is still required.  The average charge
for an electric telegraph, with two wires, as hitherto furnished to the
various railway companies in England, may be stated at not less than 150t.
6*




66
per mile; added to which an annual sum must be calculated on for keeping
it in order, and reinstating, when necessary, the wooden posts, &c. The
charge for transmission of communications by the Electric Telegraph
Company's telegraphs in England, is at the rate of one penny per mile
for the first fifty miles, and one farthing per mile for any distance beyond
one hundred miles.  The South Eastern Railway Company's charges for
telegraphic communications are even much higher than those of the
Electric Telegraph Company.  Thus twenty words, transmitted eightyeight miles, is charged the large sum of 11s.; whereas the same length of
communication for the distance of 100 miles is only charged 6s. 3d. by
the Electric Telegraph Company.
If we judge by the following remarks, some of the English journals
appreciate the advantages of this form of telegraph.
"We have heard of things being done'in less than no time,' and
always looked on the phrase as a figure of speech signifying great despatch.  The paradox seems, however, to have been actually realized
in the invention of Wheatstone's Great Western Telegraph, a message
having been sent in the year 1845, and received in the year 1844! It
appears that directly after the clock had struck twelve, on the night of the
31st of Dec. last, the superintendent at Paddington, signalled to his brother at Slough, that he wished him a happy New Year; an answer was
immediately returned, suggesting that the wish was premature, as the
New Year had not yet arrived at Slough.  Such, indeed, was the fact,
for'panting' Time was matched against the telegraph, and beaten by
half a minute."
On the London and Portsmouth Electric Telegraph, (88 miles,) "Her
Majesty's speech, on the opening of Parliament, was transmitted by the
telegraph to Portsmouth, and published there almost as soon as in London.  The speech contained 3600 letters, and was printed off as it arrived.  It occupied about two hours in the transmission, being at the
rate of about 300 letters per minute. —Jlech. iliag. Feb. 1, 1845.
By the following decision of the Judicial Committee of the Privy
Council, it will be seen that Messrs. Cook and Wheatstone were refused
an extension of their patent, on the ground bf their having been. suffi.
ciently remunerated, and that the Electric Telegraph had not been so
poor an investment as we have been led to believe by the English Press,"
as the share-holders have received a bonus of ~15 per share, besides
the usual dividend of 4 per cent. on ~300,000.
"The Electric Telegraph Company sought to obtain the prolongation
of letters patent which had been granted to William Fothergill Cooke
and Charles Wheatstone on the 12th of June, 1837.  The books of the
petitioners were made up, it appeared, and balanced to the 31st December, 1850, and the subjoined statement will show the receipts and disbursements of the petitioners since the introduction of the electric telegraph.
Receipts from the railway companies for their
use of the company's patents,      ~122,285 13 2
Receipts from maintenance and sundries,  7,301 13 1
~129,587 6 a
In addition to the foregoing, the company have received gross
profits on the erecticn of telegraphs for railway companies
amounting to                                        40,747 4 2
~170,334 10 5




67
Carried over,                            ~170,334 10 5
Less charges, including part of the law and parliamentary expenses,                                                 34,319  6  7
Making the total receipts,                ~136,015  3 10
Total amount paid for patents,           ~167,688  9  0
Showing that, after crediting the patent account with the above
mentioned amount of ~40,747 4s. 2d. received for erections,
the total payments have exceeded the total receipts by  31,673  5  2
The Company have in their books charged the capital account of
their commercial telegraph with ~33,603 10s. 8d. as the estimated value of the patent employed therein. If this nominal
charge be added to the amount of actual receipts, as above
stated, the patent account will then show an apparent surplus for
all patents of                                           1,930  5 6
The commercial telegraphs have yielded during
the three years which have elapsed since the
commencement of their working a total gross
return of                              ~ 103,444  7 11
At charges amounting to        83,265  6 11:8howing a surplus of                         20,179  1 0
Which surplus of 20,1791. Is. is the total nett return upon a capital
of 104,2291. 17s. 8d.-the actual cost, but much more than the present
value of the patent-the amount actually expended in the erection of
the commercial telegraphs; or upon a capital of 137,8331. 8s. 4d. if the
patent account is to have the benefit of the above nominal charge of
33,6031. 10s. 8d.
The evidence which was adduced in support of the petitioners' case
was chiefly directed to show the reasonable charges made by the company,
and the accuracy of the accounts.
Their Lordships decided that, as the patentees themselves had been
sufficiently rewarded, the company-who derived their right from themhad no locus standi, and therefore refused the application.
The following is an extract from  "Newton's Patent Journal," giving
the result of an interesting trial in connexion with the Telegraph above
described. I understand from good authority that the Electric Telegraph
Company have compromised and paid Brett & Little for their improvements, and intend employing them in addition to their Telegraph.
Opinion of JUSTiCE CRESSWELL, in the Case of  The Electric Telegraph.
Company vs. Brett and Little.
Judgment delivered by Mr. Justice Cresswell as follows:-This was
an action brought by the plaintiffs against the defendants for the infringement of a patent.  The patent was granted in 1837 to Messrs.
Cooke and Wheatstone, for "improvements in giving signals and sounding alarms in distant places, by means of electric currents transmitted
through metallic circuits," and was afterwards assigned to the plaintiffs.
The action was tried at the sittings after Hilary term, 1850, before Lord
Chief Justice Wilde, and a verdict was then found for the plaintiffs; and
in answer to certain questions put to the jury by the learned judge, certain special matters were found, on which the defendants had leave to
move to enter the verdict for the defendants. A rule nisi was accordingly




68
obtained, to which cause was shown; and in the argument the chief
question raised was, what was the proper verdict to be entered in respect
of the special matters found by the jury in answer to the questions of the
Lord Chief Justice. To the third question, which was material, the jury
found that the magnetic ring and indicator of the defendants was a different instrument from the needle claimed in the specification of the plaintiff's patent; and they also found, in answer to the fourth question, that
"the sending of signals to the intermediate stations was new to the plaintiffs," by which expression was to be understood that it was a new invention of the patentees. The jury also found, in answer to the fifth
question, "that the angular motions of the needles in vertical planes or
horizontal axles, conjointly with the stops, was new to the plaintiffs,"
meaning that it was a new invention of the patentees. In answer to the
sixth question, they found, "that as a whole the defendants' system of
communicating with one wire and two needles was not thg same as the
plaintiffs'." It was insisted by the plaintiffs on showing cause, that on
these findings they were entitled to retain the verdict in respect to the
answers on the fourth and fifth questions.  It appeared that the defendants, by means of duplicate coils and apparatus at the intermediate stations, had sent signals to all the intermediate stations, as well as between the terminal stations, and that they used an instrument moving in
a vertical plane, called "'a magnetic ring and indicator," producing nearly
the same result as the needle described in the plaintiffs' specification.
The jury, however, having found that the magnetic ring and indicator
was a different instrument from the needle used by the plaintiffs, the defendants insisted that their use of it was no infringement of the plaintiffs'
patent.  The objection, however, mainly relied upon, was, that the
plaintiffs' specification protected only the patentees' improvements as
applied to metallic circuits, and that if the electric current was transmitted by improved machinery, not by a circuit wholly metallic, the improvements might be used without an infringement of the patent.  The
defendants using the earth to complete the circuit of the electric current,
did not use a metallic circuit, and, therefore, they denied that the use of
the plaintiffs' other improvements was an infringement of the patent.
This was a grave objection, but the Court was of opinion, after full
consideration, that it ought not to prevail.  At the time of the grant of
the patent the transmission of electric currents through metallic circuits
was known, and also that the power of the current might be increased
by coils in the wire.  The discovery that the earth would complete the
circuit of the current between the two ends of the wire struck into the
ground, was made after the grant of the patent. The patentees did not,
therefore, claim the invention of metallic circuits, but only improvements
in the method of using electric currents-the currents being transmitted
by a means open to the public.  The circuit used by the defendants, so
far as it operated in giving signals, and in all the parts to which the
plaintiffs' improvements applied, was metallic: and it was not a necessary condition that the residue of the circuit should be metallic. The
specification which claimed and described the invention was to be more
strictly construed than the title of the patent, and the Court thought that
the specification sufficiently comprehended all circuits that were metallic}




69
as far as it was material to the improvements claimed that they should
be so. And with regard to the use of the term, "metallic currents," in
the title of the patent, the Court thought the title gave sufficient notice to
any person acquainted with the discovery, or who had invented similar
improvements to the patentees', to put him on his guard as to the nature
of the plaintiffs' patent, and lead him to enquire how far any contemplated
improvements would infringe it. The Court thought it but reasonable
to hold that a claim for a patent for improvements in the mode of doing
something by a known process, was sufficient to entitle the claimant to a
patent for his improvements, where applied either to the process as known
at the time of the claim, or to the same process altered and improved by
subsequent discoveries. The next objection was, that the plaintiffs' patent was for a system of giving signals by means of several wires and
converging needles pointed to certain letters, whereas the defendants used
one wire, and made signals by counting the deflexions of the needle,
which was found by the jury to be a different system.  The Court thought
this objection founded on a wrong discussion of the specification, which
showed the patent to be not for a system of giving signals, but for certain distinct and specified improvements comprehending those now in
question. The Court, therefore, thought the objections ought not to prevail to the grounds on which the plaintiffs claimed the verdict in respect
to vertical needles and of the use of duplicates at intermediate stations.
It might be doubtful whether the plaintiffs could claim the verdict with
regard to the use of vertical needles by the defendants, considering the
finding of the jury; but the Court thought that the use of duplicate apparatus at the intermediate stations, which the jury found to be a new
invention, and which undoubtedly the defendants had used, entitled the
plaintiffs in this respect to keep their verdict. If, however, the defendants' discovery enabled intermediate stations to send as well as receive
signals, that was a very important improvement, for which the inventor
might probably be entitled to a patent, though he might not be entitled to
use it except by the license of the patentee of the less perfect invention
on which the latter invention was grounded. For these reasons the Court
thought the plaintiffs entitled to retain their verdict, and the rule must be
discharged.-Rule discharged.
Steinheil's Electro-Mlagnetic.Needle Printing Telegraph.
The next telegraph in order of date of publication is that of Professor
Steinheil, the first published notice of which I find in a letter from Munich, dated December 23d, 1836, published in the third volume of the
Jllagazine of Popular Science.
"Prof. Steinheil has fitted up a telegraph here according to the plan of
Prof. Gauss, and similar in principle to that, which connects the Observatory and Cabinet of Natural Philosophy at Gottingen." This telegraph
was in operation previous to July, 1837, but was not published and described until August, 1838.  "His Memoir was communicated for the
Comptes Rerdu3, July 19, and published in September, 1838. According
to the authority of Prof. Morse, Steinheil's telegraph was adopted by the
Bavarian Government, and was in actual operation during his visit to
Europe in 1838. According to the same authority, in 1838, "Professor




70
Steinheil's telegraph was the only European telegraph that professed to
write the intelligence.  See Letter of Professor Morse to the Hon. C. G.
Ferres, Vail's Electro-JMag. Telegraph, pp. 95, 97.
In the work of Dr. Schellen, published in Germany in 1850, it is stated
that Steinheil's telegraph was in operation in 1837.
This is the first telegraph which I find on record, in which the earth
was employed as half of the circuit-a most useful application of knowledge, gained at great labor, and not patented, but published freely to
the world. His experiments are thus described by Dr. Schellen, in his
work on the telegraph:
"Gauss had already conceived it possible to make conductors of the
rails of a railroad, when Steinheil, in 1838, made the experiment, insulating the chairs of the rails by tarred felt; this was, however, imperfect
insulation, as the circuit would not extend beyond thirty rails.  To test the
matter more thoroughly, he had some new rails constructed; but the points
of contact were so numerous, and the establishment of a metallic connexion
between the two rails by the wheels and axles of the cars passing over them
so complete, that the current lost its force, and all idea of the measure was
given up. This experiment demonstrating the conducting power of the
earth, induced Steinheil to think of that as a means of return circuit, and
thus dispense with one-half the wire. The fact by experiment he found
verified, and immediately arranged his apparatus on this plan. This was
a discovery of vast utility, and has contributed much to the extension of
telegraphing. Steinheil says, you can make conductors of earth and
water, as well as of wire, if you increase their size in proportion to the nonconductibility of the substance. Water was 100,000 times worse as a
conductor than copper, and therefore the conducting surface should be
made 100,000 times greater; in order to obtain this large conducting medium, it is necessary that the wires should terminate in submerged plates
of the re-quired dimensions to include that medium between them. The
same idea was afterwards brought forward by Dr. Cox, of this city, in
regard to the use of railroads for telegraphic purposes, in September, 1845.
Steinhiel's alphabet is one of great beauty and simplicity, displaying
the man of learning and refinement; as, for example, his musical bells,
producing sounds which, striking upon a cultivated ear, conveyed a telegraphic language in imitation of the human voice. But he did not confine himself to the production of evanescent sound, he also employed
the simple dot, so as to fix them permanently upon paper, that they could
be recalled again.  This form of telegraph is a combination of the successive findamental discoveries of Professors CErsted and Faraday, with
the multiplicator of Schwigger.
I extract from the original paper of Steinheil, published in the London
Annals of Electricity, March and April, 1839, an account of his telegraph,
being the most complete which I can find on record:To Gauss and Weber* is due the merit of having in 1833, actually
constructed the first simplified galvano-magnetic telegraph.   It was
Gauss who first employed the excitement of induction, and who demonstrated that the appropriate combination of a limited number of signs is
all that is required for the transmission of communications. Weber's
*Gott. gel. Anz. 1834, p. 1273, and Schumacher's Jahrbuch, 1837, p. 38.




71
discovery that a copper wire 7460 feet long which he had led across the
houses and steeples at Gottingen from the observatory to the cabinet of
Natural Philosophy required no especial insulation was one of great iimn
portance. - The principle was thereby at once established of bringing the
galvanic telegraph to the most convenient form.  All that was required
was an appropriate method of inducing or exciting the current with the
power of changing its direction without having recourse to any special
contrivances for that purpose.  In accordance with the principles we
have laid down, all that was required in addition to this was to render
the signals audible, a task that apparently presented no very particular
difficulty, inasmuch as in the very scheme itself a mechanical motion,
namely, the deflexion of a magnetic bar, was given. All that we had to
do therefore was to contrive that this motion should be made available
for striking bells or for making indelible dots. This falls within the province of mechanics, and there are therefore more ways than one of solving
the problem. Hence the alterations that I have made in the telegraph of
Gauss and by which it has assumed its present form may be said to be
founded on my perception and improvement of its imperfections, in harmony with what I had previously laid down as necessary for perfect telegraphic communication. I by no means however look on the arrangement I have selected as complete; but as it answers the purpose I had in
view, and it may be well to abide by it till some simpler arrangement is
contrived.
As an inductor or exciter I employ a rotating apparatus whose construction, speaking in a general way, is similar to those of Clarke, of
London.  The multipliers of which my inductor is composed, consist of a vast number of turns of fine insulated copper wire; and this
arrangement is necessary in order that the resistance offered by the thicker
wire completing the circuit, even should it be many miles long, may
be but little increased. Of the galvanic influence excited during the
entire half-turn of the rotating double multiplier, only a small portion is
employed, and that when it is at the maximum  of its energy.  By this
means the duration of the current is but very short, an arrangement which
therefore, in a manner, can cause merely a momentary deflexion of the
little magnetic bars employed for giving the signals. In order to heighten
the action of these indicators as much as possible, they are surrounded
by powerful multipliers. Small detached magnets are so placed near
these indicators, that they are thereby brought back to their original position immediately that the induced current ceases, or in other words, as
soon as the deflexion has taken place: I thus am enabled to repeat signals in very rapid succession.  The same indicator can be brought with
ease to make five deflexions in a second, succeeding each other as fast
as the sounds of a repeater when striking.  Hence if bells are placed at
the proper striking distance from these indicators, they will ring at every
deflexion produced, and as it is quite immaterial at what part of the wire,
completing the circuit, the multiplier containing the indicator is inserted,
we have it in our power to produce the sign excited by induction at any
part of the course the wire takes.  Should it be desired that the indicator instead of produciug sounds should write, it is merely required to
adapt to one end of the little magnetic bar a small vessel filled with a




72
black color, and terminating in a capillary tube. This tube, instead of
striking on a bell, thus makes a black spot upon some flat surface held
in front of it.  If these spots are to compose writing, the surface upon
which they are printed must keep moving on in front of the indicator
with a uniform velocity, and this is easily brought about by means of an
endless strip of paper which is rolled off one cylinder on to another by
clockwork. This is in a general way the construction followed in the telegraph erected here, a fuller account of which now would be out of place,
as it may be found on referring to the appendix.  As far as the employment of this telegraph is concerned, it may be fairly said to perform all
that can be reasonably required of it.  The excitation of the current is
produced by half a turn of the indicator, and is equally available at all
times.  The sounds of the bells close to the person making the signals,
and which being produced at the other station too are also audible there,
become, by practice, intelligible as a language. Should they, however,
be overheard or misunderstood, the communication presents itself simultaneously written down. This can be done with closed doors, without
any but the parties concerned being aware of it: the communications may
be made at any distance, and either by day or night, without any appreciable loss of time. There is, therefore, every reason to be content with
the performance of the instrument.
It is not, however, to be denied, that the establishment of certain conditions indispensable to its action is, nevertheless, a matter of some difficulty. We allude to the connecting wire joining the stations.
It has been stated above that Ampere required more than sixty such
wires, whereas thirty or so were sufficient for Sommering. Wheatstone
and Cooke* reduced their number to five; Gauss, and, probably in imitation of him, Schilling, as likewise Morset in New York, made use of
but a single wire running to the distant station and back. One might
imagine that this part of the arrangement could not be further simplified,
such, however, is by no means the case.  I have found that even the
half of this length of wire may be dispensed with, and that with certain
precautions its place is supplied by the ground itself.  We know in
theory that the conducting powers of the ground and of water are very
small, compared with that of the metals, especially copper.  It seems
however to have been previously overlooked, that we have it within our
reach to make a perfectly good conductor out of water or any other of
the so called semi-conductors.  All that is required is, that the surface
that its section presents should be as much greater than that of the metal
as its conducting power is less.  In that case the resistance offered by
the semi-conductor will equal that of the perfect conductor; and as we
can make conductors of the ground of any size we please, simply by
adapting to the ends of the wires, plates presenting a sufficient surface
of contact, it is evident that we can diminish the resistance offered by
the ground or by water to any extent we like.  We can, indeed, so reduce this resistance as to make it quite insensible when compared to that
offered by the metallic circuit, so that not only is half the wire spared,
La France Industrielle, 1838, April 5, p. 3.
t Mechanics' Magazine, No.  57, p. 332. Silliman's Journal for October, 1837. Annals of Electricity, &c., Vol. II. p. 116.




73
but even the resistance that such a circuit would present is diminished
by one-half. This fact, the importance of which in the erection of galvanic telegraphs speaks for itself, furnishes us with another additional
feature in which galvanism resembles electricity.  The experiments of
Winckler, at Leipsig, had already shown us that with frictional electricity
the ground may replace a portion of the discharging wire. The same is
now known to hold good with respect to galvanic currents.
The inquiry into the laws of dispersion, according to which the ground,
whose mass is unlimited, is acted upon by the passage of the galvanic
current, appeared to be a subject replete with interest. The galvanic
excitation cannot be confined to the portions of earth situated between
the two ends of the wire; on the contrary, it cannot but extend itself indefinitely, and it became, therefore, now only dependant on the law that
obtained the excitation of the ground and the distance of the exciting
terminations of the wire, whether it was necessary or not to have any
metallic communication at all for carrying on telegraphic intercourse.
I can here only state in a general way that I have succeeded in deducing this law experimentally from the phenomena it presents: and that
the result of the investigation is, that the excitation diminishes rapidly as
the distance between the terminal wires increases.
An apparatus can, it is true, be constructed in which the inductor,
having no metallic connexion whatever with the multiplier, by nothing
more than the excitation transmitted through the ground, will produce
galvanic currents in that multiplier sufficient to cause a visible deflexion
of the bar. This is a hitherto unobserved fact, and may be classed among
the most extraordinary phenomena that science has revealed to us. It
only holds good, however, for small distances.  It must be left to the
future to decide whether we shall ever succeed in telegraphing at great
distances without any metallic communication at all. My experiments
prove that such a thing is possible up to distances of 50 feet. For distant stations we can only conceive it feasible by augmenting the power
of the galvanic induction, or by appropriate multipliers constructed for
the purpose, or, in conclusion, by increasing the surface of contact presented by the ends of the multiplier. At all events the phenomenon
merits our best attention, and its influence will not perhaps be altogether
overlooked in the theoretic views we may form with regard to galvanism
itself.
To sum up in a few words what are the results of what we have here
brought forward respecting telegraphic communications, we see that,
with the present arrangement of the apparatus, no principle can be brought
into competition with the galvanic telegraph, but that the establishing
the metallic connexion indispensable to its action, although now materially
simplified, still presents great difficulties in practice.  Indeed, such a
connexion is only practicable where it can be constantly watched, as, for
instance, in the vicinity of railroads.
For very considerable distances without intermediate stations, galvanic
or electric excitation must, on account of their rapidity, be always the
best power to have recourse to. For less distances it yet remains open
to inquiry whether, with proper modifications, some of the other methods
7




74
we have pointed out would not be preferable, as they dispense with a
metallic connexion.
Dr. Steinheil's Magnetic Telegraph.
This telegraph is composed of three principal parts. 1, A metallic connexion between the stations. 2, The apparatus for exciting the galvanic
current. 3, The indicator.
1. Connecting Wire. —The so called connecting wire may be looked
on as the wire completing the circuit of a voltaic battery extended to a
very great length. What applies to the one holds good of the other. With
equal thicknesses of the same metal, the resistance offered to the passage
of the galvanic current is proportional to the length of the wire. With
equal lengths of the same metal, however, the resistance diminishes inversely with the section; but the conducting power of metals is very different. According to Fechner, copper conducts six times better than iron,
and four times better than brass. The conducting power of lead is even
lower, so that the only metals which can well vie with each other in their
technical use are copper and iron. But now, though iron is about six
times as cheap as copper, it will be requisite to give the iron wire six
times the weight of a copper one, to gain the same conducting power
with equal lengths. We thus see, that as far as the expense is concerned,
it comes to the same thing whichever of these metals is chosen. The preference will, however, be given to copper, as this metal is less liable to
oxidization from exposure to the atmosphere. This latter difficulty may
nevertheless be surmounted by simple means, namely, by galvanising it.
It would even appear that the simple transmission of the galvanic current
when the telegraph is in use, is sufficient to preserve the iron from rust;
such at least is observed to be the case with the iron portion of the wire
used for the telegraph here, and which has already been exposed in all
weathers.
If the galvanic current is to traverse the entire metallic circuit without
any diminution of intensity, the wire during its whole course must not be
allowed to come into contact with itself; neither should it be in frequent
contact with semi-conductors, inasmuch as a portion of the power called
into action takes its course by the shortest way in consequence thereof,
whereby the remotest parts are deprived of a portion of the power.
Numerous trials to insulate wires, and to conduct them below the surface of the ground, have led me to the conviction that such attempts can
never answer at great distances, inasmuch as our most perfect insulators
are at best but very bad conductors. And since in a wire of very great
length, the surface in contact with the so-called insulator is uncommonly
large, when compared with the section of the metallic conductor, there
necessarily arises a gradual diminution of the force, inasmuch as the out
and the home wire, although but slightly, yet do communicate in intermediate points. It would be wrong to think that this difficulty would be got
over by placing the out an dthe home wire very far apart. The distance
between them is, as we shall see in the sequel, almost a matter of indifference. And as we shall never succeed in laying down conductors that
are sufficiently insulated beneath the surface of the ground, which is
always damp, there is but one other course open to us, namely, leading
the wire through the air. Upon this plan, it is true, the conductor must




75
be supported from time to time; it is liable to be injured by the evil disposed, and is apt to suffer from violent storms, or from ice which forms
upon it. As we, however, have no other methodi that we can avail ourselves of, we must endeavor by suitable arrangements to get the better of
these, not immaterial, faults in the best way that we can.
The conducting chain of the telegraph erected here, consists of three
parts: one leads from the Royal Academy to the Royal Observatory, at
Bogenhausen, and back, and the total length of its wire is 32,506 feet.
The weight of the copper wire employed amounts to 260 pounds. Both
wires (there and back) are stretched across the steeples of the town, at a
distance of four feet one inch. The greatest distance from support to support is 1279 feet: this is undoubtedly far too great for a single wire, inasmuch as the ice that forms upon it materially increases the weight of the
wire itself, and considerably augments its diameter, so that it thus becomes liable to be torn asunder by high winds. Over those places where
there are no high buildings, the connecting wire is supported upon tall
poles forty or fifty feet long, which are let five feet into the ground, and to
the top of which the wire is fastened to a cross bar. At the point where
the metal rests there is simply a piece of felt laid, and the wire is made
fast by twisting it round the wooden bar. The distance from pole to pole
ranges between 640 and 650 feet; but this is far too great, for experience
has shown that the wires become considerably stretched by high winds
and other causes, and have, in consequence, had to be taken up more
than once. All these evils would be overcome by making the connexion
by at least a triple strand of metal, and not by a single wire, supporting
it at intervals of 300 feet, and giving it a tension not exceeding one-third
of what it will bear without giving way.  This, however, in the experimental telegraph erected here, was not practicable, for reasons into which
we cannot enter.
The conducting wire thus mounted, is by no means completely insulated. When, for example, the circuit is broken at Bogenhausen, an induction shock given in Munich ought to produce no galvanic excitation
whatever in the parts of the chain then disconnected. Gauss's galvanometer, however, even then gives indication of a weak current; measureirments indeed go to show that this current goes on increasing as the point
at which the interruption of the stream is made recedes from the inductor. The absolute amount of this current is not constant. Generally it is
strongest when the weather is damp. When there are heavy showers of
rain, it may be fairly said to be five times as strong as when the weather
is settled dry. At moderate distances of a few miles, this small loss of
power is of almost no importance, and that the more as the construction
of the inductor places currents of almost any strength we choose at our
command. When the distance, however, amounted to upwards of 200
miles, the greatest part of the effect would be dissipated. In such cases
much greater precaution must be taken with regard to the points of support of the metallic circuit.
When thunder storms occur, atmospheric electricity collects on this
semi-insulated chain as upon a conductor, but the passage of the galvanic
current is not at all affected thereby. An occurrence may be mentioned
here as a warning for the future. During a severe thunder storm on the




76
7th July, 1838, a very strong electric spark darted at the same instant
through the entire conducting chain, and there was simultaneously produced at the indicator, that is fitted up in my room, a sound like the
cracking of a whip. At the same time the lower toned bell of the indicator emitted a sound owing to the deflexion of the needle, and the blow
was so hard that the points on which the magnetic bar plays were injured.
The same phenomenon was observed also at one of the other stations.
As the deflecting power of frictional electricity is very inconsiderable
with respect to magnets, the above occurrence indicates the presence of a
vast quantity of electricity. It can only have arisen from the electricity
of the earth having at that moment made its way to that collected in the
wire. Whether this was brought about through the lightning conductors
in the neighborhood, or the imperfect insulation of the points of support,
cannot be well made out.
Quite recently I made the discovery, that the ground may be employed
as one-half of the connecting chain. As in the case of frictional electricity,
water or the ground may with the galvanic current form a portion of the
connecting wire. Owing to the low conducting power of these bodies, compared with metals, it is necessary that at the two places where the metal
conductor is in connexion with the semi-conductor, the former should
present very large surfaces of contact. Taking water, for instance, to conduct two million times worse than copper, a surface of water proportional
to this must be brought in contact with the copper, to enable the galvanic
current to meet with equal resistance, in equal distances of water and of
metal. For instance, if the section of a copper wire is 0'5 of a square line,
it will require a copper plate of 61 square feet surface in order to conduct
the galvanic current through the ground, as the wire in question would
conduct it. But as the thickness of the metal is quite immaterial in this
case, it will be always within our reach to get the requisite surfaces of
contact at no great expense. Not only do we by this means save half the
conducting wire, but we can even reduce the resistance of the ground
below what that of the wire would be, as have been fully established by
experiments made here with the experimental telegraph.
A second portion of the conducting chain leads from the Royal Academy
to my house and observatory in the Lerchenstrasse. This conductor is of
iron wire; its length, there and back, is 5745 feet, and it is stretched over
steeples and other high buildings, as has already been described. Lastly,
a third portion of the chain, running through the interior of the buildings
connected with the Royal Academy, leads to the mechanical workshop
attached to the cabinet of Natural Philosophy.  It is composed of a fine
copper wire, 958 feet long, let into the joinings of the floor, and in part
imbedded in the walls. These three portions together compose a line,
returning into itself, and into which the apparatus for generating the galvanic current, and also the indicator, are inserted.
2. Aipparatusfor Generating the Galvanic Current.-Hydro-galvanism,
or the galvanic current generated by the action of the voltaic pile, is by no
means fitted for traversing very long connecting wires, because the resistance in the pile, even when many hundred pairs of plates are employed,
would be always inconsiderable compared with the resistance offered by
the wire itself,




77
The principal disadvantage, however, attendant on the use of the pile
or trough apparatus, is the fluctuations of their current, joined to the circumstance of their becoming very soon quite powerless, and requiring to
be taken to pieces and put together again. The extremely ingenious arrangement of Morse is likewise subject to this inconvenience. (All these
inconveniences have been obviated by Morse's local circuit and the improved form of battery employed since Steinheil's experiments.-T.) All
this, however, is got over when one, to generate the current, has recourse to
Faraday's important discovery of induction, that is to say, by moving
magnets placed in the neighborhood of conducting wires.  The better
way, however, is, not to move the magnets as Pixii does in his electromagnetic apparatus, but rather to give motion to the multipliers placed
close to a fixed magnet. The arrangement that Clarke has given to the
multiplier is the one which, with some modifications, has been adopted.
Assuming on the part of our readers a general knowledge of the principles of the apparatus, we here confine ourselves to explaining how it has
been adapted to purposes of telegraphic intercourse.
The magnet is composed of 17 horse-shoe bars of hardened steel. With
its iron armature its weight is about 74 lbs., and it is capable of supporting about 370 lbs. Between the arms of the magnet there is fastened a
piece of metal, supporting in its centre a cup provided with adjusting
screws, and which serves as a support for the axis of the coils of the multiplier. The coils of the multiplier have in all 15,000 turns of wire. A
metre (3 feet 3'3708 inches English) of this wire weighs 151 grains, and
it is twice bespun with silk. Its two ends, which are insulated, are passed
up through the interior of the vertical axis of the multiplier, and then terminate in two hook-shaped pieces, as may be seen in Plate I. figs. 8 and
9. In order to secure perfect insulation, the vertical axis, fig. 8, was bored
out hollow. Into this hole there are let in from above two semicircular
rods of copper, which are prevented touching by a strip of taffeta fastened between them with glue; and these again are kept from touching the
metallic axis by winding taffeta round them. In each of these little strips
of metal there is, above and below, a female screw cut. In the lower
holes small metal pins are screwed in, to which the ends of the multiplier
are soldered securely on. While in the upper holes, as may be seen distinctly in figs. 9 and 10, there are iron hooks screwed in. These hooks
therefore form the terminations of the multiplier wires of the coils of the
inductor.  They here turn down, fig. 15, into two semicircular cups of
quicksilver, that are separated by a wooden partition. From these cups
of quicksilver there proceed connexions, J J, figs. 8 and 13, towards the
wires, and they therefore may be considered as forming part of the chain.
The quicksilver, owing to its capillarity, stands at a higher level in these
semicircular cups than are the partitions, so that the terminal hooks of the
wires of the multiplier pass over these partitions without touching them
when the multiplier is made to turn on its axis. One sees that the hooks
thus are brought into other cups of quicksilver at every half turn of the
multiplier, in consequence of which the galvanic current preserves its
sign as long as the multiplier is turned in one direction, but it changes its
sign on the motion being reversed. This commutation, which it may be
remarked may be established without the use of mercury, by the contact
7*




78
of strips of copper that act like springs, is found to answer completely.
There are besides two other arrangements which we must not allow to
pass unnoticed.
The galvanic current, as we shall see in the sequel when treating of
the indicator, should only be permitted to be in action during as short a
period as possible, but during that interval should have the greatest intensity we can command. The terminal hooks of the wires dip into the
quicksilver only at the place where it forms pools that advance towards
each other at the centre, and where the current is at its greatest intensity,
see figs. 13, 14, and 15. Fig. 15 shows the position that the inductor has
when the terminal hooks first dip into the cups. In all other positions of
the inductor it should however form no part of the chain, otherwise the
signals made at the other stations will be repeated by its own multiplying
wire; and this becomes of the more moment the greater the resistance in
the inductor is.  In order therefore to cutt off the inductor when in any
other position than shown at fig. 15, there is a wooden ring adapted to
the axis of rotation of the inductor, see figs. 11 and 12. This ring is encircled with a copper hoop, and into this latter two iron hooks are screwed. T'hese hooks dip down into the semicircular cups of quicksilver, as
shown at fig. 14. At the moment, however, that they are passing across
the wooden partition, the hooks of the inductor, which are at right angles
to them, dip into the cups. When the hooks of the multiplier are in contact with the quicksilver, the connexion with the hooks for diverting the
current is broken.  In every other position the connexion through the
hooks of the multiplier is interrupted, while it is established through the
others; whence it naturally follows that the current, on being transmitted
ifrom any other station, passes directly through the latter hooks, or, in other
words, crosses directly from one quicksilver cup to the other, and is not
forced to traverse the wire of the inductor for that purpose.  In order to
put the inductor in motion without trouble, there is a fly bar terminating
in two metal balls fastened horizontally on to its vertical axis, (annexed
cuts,) figs. 39 and 40.  T'o prevent the quicksilver being scattered about,
owing to the motion of the hooks as they dip into it when the multiplier
is turning rapidly, a glass cylinder is itted on to this part of the apparatus,
fig. 1. At every half turn is seen the passage of the spark, as the hooks
of the multiplier leave their cups of quicksilver.
If we choose to give up the phenomena of these sparks, a thing noways
necessary to the employment of the instrument as a telegraph, the inductor will admit of a far more simple construction.  It will then merely be
necessary to place the commutator directly above the anker, and to let
the axis of rotation pass farther up in the neck, in the direction of the fly
bar. It then becomes unnecessary to bore the axis out, but the ends of the
multiplier are at once fastened by twisting on to two plates of copper, and
these copper plates are let into a wooden ring directly opposite each other.
iThe wooden ring is placed upon the vertical axis, and made fast to it by
clamps. Externally this ring is, in addition to the above-mentioned plates,
provided  with an arc of copper let into it, which acts as a contact-breaker,
and two ends of the chain that the current has to traverse have the form
of permanent springs, that keep pressing against the wooden rings directly
opposite each other. By this means, with this arrangement also, the ends
of the inductor are in metallic communication with the chain only during




79
a small portion of each revolution, while during the rest of the time the
connecting are brings the ends of the chain into direct contact. This construction, in which quicksilver is entirely dispensed with, is, on account
of its greater simplicity and durability, preferable to the arrangement first
described. The apparatus of the stations at Bogenhausen and in the Lerchenstrasse are thus constructed.
Fig. 39.                     Fig. 40.        Lines.................
/1.
A BI DE F GHI CH SCHIKtI(M N O P R
STVV Z  0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8  9..''.'........  ~,..../ -.
3. The Indicator.-We have shown in the preceding paper, that our
ainn is so to employ the current developed by the inductor and led through
the conducting chain, that when passed across magnetic bars that are deiicately suspended, it may cause them to be deflected, as was discovered
by (Ersted.  These deflexions, if we wish to give the signals in quick
succession, must follow each other with the greatest rapidity, and should
therefore be powerful. This points out to us the size we should give the
magnetic bars we wish to deflect. They must not however be made too
small, as in that case the mechanical force arising finom their deflexion is
not strong enough to be directly applied to striking upon bells, or any
other similar purpose. The deflexions are, as is well known, taking the
force of the current to be the same, the stronger, the greater the number
of turns in the multiplier, or, in other words, the oftener the wire is led
along the magnetic bar.  The size of the diameter of the separate turns,
as we know, only exerts an influence inasmuch as it adds to the entire
length of the connecting wire.  The indicator therefore is a multiplier,
whose two ends connect it with the conducting chain, and within which
the bar to be deflected is placed. It must be borne in mind, that the thinner the wire of the multiplier is, the larger its coils are; and the more turns
they make, the greater is the resistance to the current throughout the entire chain.




80
Figs. 16 and 17, Plate I., represent the vertical and horizontal sections of an indicator containing two magnets, movable on their vertical
axis, and which from their construction are applicable both to striking
bells and also to noting down a type composed of dots. Into the frames
of the multiplier, which are made of soldered sheet brass, fig. 16, there
are soldered two smaller cases for the reception of the magnets, and which
allow of the free motion of their axes. Above and below they have threads
cut in them for the reception of four screws in holes, on the ends of which
the pivots of the axes turn. By means of these screws the position of the
bars may be so regulated that their motion is perfectly easy and free. In
the frames of the multiplier there are 600 turns of the same insulated copper wire as was employed for the inductor. The commencement and the
end of this wire are shown at Mh M, fig. 16.  The magnetic bars are, as
the figure shows, so situated in the frame of the multiplier, that the north
pole of the one is presented to the south pole of the other.  To the ends
which are thus presented to each other, but which, owing to the influence
they mutually exert, cannot well be brought nearer, there are screwed on
two slight brass arms supporting little cups, figs. 17 and 18. These little
cups, which are meant to be filled with printing ink, are provided with
extremely fine perforated beaks that are rounded off in front. When printing ink is put into these clps, it insinuates itself into the tube of these
beaks, owing to capillary attraction; and without running out forms at their
apertures a projection of a setmi-globular shape. The slightest contact suffices therefore for noting down a black dot. When the galvanic influence
is transmitted through the multiplying wire of this indicator, both magnetic bars make an effort to turn in a similar direction upon their vertical
axes. One of the cups of ink would therefore advance from within the
frame of the multiplier, while the other would retire within it. To prevent this, two plates are fastened at the opposite ends of the free space
that is allowed for the play of the bars, and against which the other ends
of these bars press. Only the end of one bar can therefore start out from
within the multiplier at a time, the other being retained in its place. In
order to bring the magnetic bars back to their original position as soon
as the deflexion is completed, recourse is had to small movable magnets,
whose distance and position is to be varied till they produce the desired
effect. This position must be determined by experiment, inasmuch as it
depends upon the intensity of the current called into play.
If this apparatus be employed for producing two sounds easily distinguishable to the ear by striking on bells, it will be right to select clock
bells or bells of glass, both of which easily emit a sound, and whose
notes differ about a sixth.  This interval is by no means a matter of
indifference. The sixth is more easily distinguished than any other interval; fifths and octaves would be frequently confounded by those not versed
in such matters. The bells are to be supported on little pillars with feet,
and their position with respect to the bars, and likewise their distance
from them, is to be determined by experiment. The knobs let into the
bar that strike on the bells must give the blow at the place which most
easily emits a sound. These hammers, however, are not to be too close to
the bells, as in that case a repetition of the signal can easily ensue. A few
trials will soon get over this difficulty. If the indicator is to write down




Plate, 1 -
6                               5
1 7
M,(~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~7~~7
IVUTI  L 
4'LIL1,pLSERE4
3       7                     STEINHAEL'S  GALVANIC TELEGRAPH~








81
the signals, a flat surface of paper must be kept moving with a uniform
velocity in front of the little beaks above mentioned. The best way of'
doing this is to employ very long strips of the so-called endless paper,
which is to be wound round a cylinder of wood, and then cut upon the
lathe into bands of the suitable width. One of these strips of paper must
be made to unwind itself from a cylinder, pass close in front of the cups,
run along a certain distance in a horizontal position, so that the dots noted
down may be read off, and lastly, wind itself up again on to a second cylinder. This second cylinder is put in motion by clock work, the regularity
of whose action is insured by a centrifugal fly-wheel. A longitudinal section
of the entire arrangement is shown at fig. 39, (p. 79.)  Fig. 40 represents
it as seen from above. At the corners of the frame over which the ribbon of
paper is led, there are placed two movable rollers, to diminish the friction.
This frame moreover admits of being advanced towards the cups or withdrawn from them, so that the most proper position to give it can be aseertaineAl by experiment.  It is evident that the same magnetic bars cannot be
at once employed for striking bells and for writing, the little power they
exert being already exhausted by either of these operations. But to combine them both, all we have to do is to introduce a second indicator into
the chain. By thus increasing the number of the indicators, the loudness
of the sounds of the bells can be augmented at pleasure; this can, however, only be done at the cost of an increased resistance in the chain. In
order that this may be increased by the indicator as little as possible, it
would in future be better that its coils should be made of very thick copper wire, or of strips of copper plate.
The above description will enable those who are familiar with such
subjects to construct the apparatus for themselves. We have yet to add a
few words upon
The Way of putting the Apparatus together. —Fig. 39, (p. 79,) represents
the longitudinal section of a pyramidal table, standing on the floor of the
room, and containing the whole apparatus. Figc. 40 shows the same as
seen from above. The wires from Bogenhausen, those from the Lerchenstrasse, the ends of the indicator, and the wires from the quicksilver cups
of the inductor, or, in other words, the two ends of its multiplier, all meet
together at the centre of the table, as seen at fig. 40. They are here
brought into connexion with eight holes filled with quicksilver, made in a
disk of wood, as shown at fig. 3, Plate I. The course that the current we
call forth will take depends upon the respective connexion of these eight
holes with each other. For instance, supposing them to be connected
together by four pieces of bent copper wire, as shown at fig. 3, the current would pass through the whole apparatus, and also the entire chain.
Establishing, however, the connexion as shown at fig. 6, would cut off
the Bogenhausen station, and would at once transmit the current direct
from the inductor, through the multiplier of the indicator and through the
Lerchenstrasse station. Supposing this figure turned round 180 degrees,
we should have the Lerchenstrasse station cut off, and the current would
pass through Bogenhausen. A third system of connexions is shown by
the copper wires represented in fig. 7. In this position of the sketch, the
inductor and the multiplier would be in direct communication, while the
two stations at Bogenhausen and in the Lerchenstrasse would be cut off.




82
But by turning this figure 90 degrees, we should connect these two stations, while we broke off the station in the Academy.  Copper wires,
serving to establish these three systems of connexion and the combinations, are laid down upon the under surface of the wooden cover of the
commutator, as seen at fig. 4. There are 24 wires projecting downwards from this lid. Only eight of them, however, ever come into use at
once, so that there must be sixteen other holes made in the lower disk of
wood, for the reception of the wires not in use, and having no quicksilver
poured into them. It is thus in our power to direct the course of the current as we choose, and the systems concerned are indicated upon the
tipper surface of the cover of the commutator by engraved letters, see fig.
2, Plate I.; this cover containing the different modifications of the systems of connexion, as shown at fig. 4. Changing the position of this cover
round the central pin springing from the table, enables us to vary the direction of the current in any manner we like. The use of quicksilver cups
in the commutator may of course be replaced by conically turned copper
pins. This has indeed been done at the Lerchenstrasse and the 1ogenihausen stations.
We shall conclude by a few remarks upon
Thie.pplication of this d.pparatus to Telegraphic Communicattion. —We
know from what has preceded, that at every half turn of the fly-bar friom
right to left, one of the bars is deflected. I have so connected the terminations of the wires, that every time this movement is repeated the high
toned bell should be struck at all the stations. Standing at the side B B,
and turned towards the indicator, one immediately perceives the beak
imprint a dot upon the ribbon of paper as it moves along. The intervals
of time between the successive repetitions of this sign, are represented by
the respective distances between the dots that follow in a line upon the
paper. On turning the fly-bar from left to right towards the operator, the
deep toned bells ring, and the second ink cup marks down a dot upon
the paper as before; not, however, upon the same line with the former
dots, but upon a lower one. High tones are therefore represented by the
upper dots, and low tones by the dots of the lower line, as in writing music.
As long as the intervals between the separate signs remain equal, they
are to be taken together as a connected group, whether they be pauses
between the tones, or intervals between the dots marked down. A longer
pause separates these groups distinctly from each other. We are thus
enabled, by appropriately selected groups thus combined, to form systems representing the letters of the alphabet or stenographic characters,
and thereby to repeat and render permanent at all parts of the chain,
where an apparatus like that above described is inserted, any information
that we transmit. The alphabet that I have chosen represents the letters
that occur the oftenest in German by the simplest signs. By the similarity
of shape between these signs and that of the Roman letters, they become
impressed upon the memory without difficulty.  The distribution of the
letters and numbers into groups consisting of not more than four dots, is
shown at fig. 39, (page 79.)
Printing Telegraph of yfred Vail.
The printing telegraph of Alfred Vail was proposed in September, 1837.




83
It consists of a type wheel having on its surface the twenty-four letters
of the alphabet. On the side of the wheel are twenty-four holes. The
type wheel is moved circularly by means of a spring that the electromagnetic key causes to advance at each interruption and return of the
current. The paper advances under the type wheel by means of an independent clock movement.
The precision of the operation depends on the exact correspondence
of the machinery, situated at the two extremities of the telegraphic lines.
It is necessary that the type wheel presents the same letter at both stations,
and that the clock moves at the same rate. But I believe that this system has never been put in execution. I copy from p. 169 of his work
on the telegraph, the conclusions he comes to in regard to this form of
telegraph:
"All electro-magnetic telegraphs require as their basis, the adoption of
the electro-magnet, when recording the intelligence is an object, and it
would seem, must be applied in a manner equivalent to the mode adopted by Prof. Morse; that is, the application of the armature to a lever, and
its single movement produced by closing and breaking the circuit. It is,
therefore, safe to assume that, whatever improvement in one plan may be
made to increase the rapidity of the movements of those parts of the telegraph which belong to the electro-magnet, is equally applicable to any
other plan, provided too much complication, already existing, does not
counteract and defeat the improvement.
"Some plans, however, use an extra agent besides the electro-magnet,
which is employed for measuring the time of the revolution of the type
wheel, and the electro-magnet is only called in, occasionally, to make the
impression. In such plans the rapidity of communication demands the
combined action, alternately, of both magnets.  This, of course, increases
the complication, and must certainly be considered a departure from other
more simple arrangements. Whatever will reduce the inertia of mechanical movements and bring them to act with an approximate velocity, at
least of the fluid itself, will increase the rapidity of transmission. The
more the instrument is encumbered with the sluggish movements of material bodies, the less rapid, inevitably, must be its operation, even where
several co-operating agents are assisting, in their respective spheres, to
increase the rapidity of the motion.  Such is the case with the several
kinds of letter printing telegraphs: very weighty bodies, comparatively
speaking, are set in motion, stopped, again set in motion, and along with
this irregular motion, other parts perform their functions. There must be
a courtesy observed among themselves, or matters do not move on as harmoniously as could be desired. This is not always the case, especially
where time is the great question at issue.
"All printing telegraphs which use type, arranged upon the periphery
of a wheel, must have, of necessity, these several movements, viz: the
irregular revolution of the type wheel, stopping and starting at every
division or letter; the movement of the machinery, called the printer;
the irregular movement of the paper, at intervals, to accommodate itself
to the letter to be printed; the movement of the inking apparatus, or
what is not an improvement in cleanliness, paper of the character used
by the manifold letter writer. So many moving parts, are so many irma



84
peding causes to increased rapidity, and are, to all intents and purposes,
a complication.
"The requirements of a perfect instrument are: economy of construction, simplicity of arrangement, and mechanical movements, and rapidity
of transmission. To use one wire is to reduce it to the lowest possible
economy. If there is but one movement, and that has all the advantages
which accuracy of construction, simplicity of arrangement, and lightness,
can bestow upon it, we might justly infer that it appeared reduced to its
simplest form.
"The instrument employed by Prof. Morse has but a single movement,
and that motion of a vibratory character; is light and susceptible of the
most delicate structure, by which rapidity is insured; the paper is continuous in its movement, and requires no aid from the magnet to carry it.
"The only object that can be obtained by using the English letters,
instead of the telegraphic letters, is, that the one is in common use, the
other is not.  The one is as easily read as the other; the advantage then
is fanciful, and is only to be indulged i'n at the expense of time, and complication of machinery, increasing the expense, and producing their inevititable accompaniments, liability of derangement, care of attendance, and
loss of time."
Alexander's Electric Telegraph.
I copy this account of Alexander's telegraph from the London JMechanics' JMagazine, of November, 1837, but it was copied originally from
the Scotsman, a paper published in Edinburgh, perhaps a month before,
and a model to illustrate the nature and the operation of the telegraphic
machine, was exhibited at a meeting of the Society of Arts in Edinburgh,
in October, 1837.
The model consists of a wooden chest, about five feet long, three feet
wide, three feet deep at the one end, and one foot at the other. The
width and depth in this model are, those which would probably be found
suitable in a working machine; but it will be understood that the length
in the machine may be a hundred or a thousand miles, and is limited to
five feet in the model, merely for convenience. Thirty copper wires extend from end to end of the chest, and are kept apart from each other.
At one end, (which for distinction's sake, we shall call the south end,)
they are fastened to a horizontal line of wooden keys, precisely similar to
those of a piano forte; at the other, or north end, they terminate close to thirty
small apertures equally distributed in six rows of five each, over a screen
of three feet square, which forms the end of the chest. Under these
apertures on the outside, are painted in black paint upon a white ground,
the twenty-six letters of the alphabet, with the necessary points, the colon,
semicolon, and full point, and an asterisk to denote the termination
of a word.  The letters occupy spaces about an inch square.  The wooden keys at the other end have also the letters of the alphabet painted on
them in the usual order. The wires serve merely for communication,
and we shall now describe the apparatus by which they work.  This
consists, at the south end, of a pair of plates, zinc and copper, forming
a galvanic trough, placed under the keys; and at the north end of thirty
steel magnets, about four inches long, placed close behind the letters paint



85
ed on the screen. The magnets move horizontally on axes, and are
poised within a flat ring of copper wire, formed of the ends of the communicating wires. On their north ends they carry small square bits of
black paper, which project in front of the screen, and serve as opercula
or covers to conceal the letters. When any wire is put in coimmunication with the trough at the south end, the galvanic influence is instantly
transmitted to the north end; and in accordance with a well known law
discovered by (Ersted, the magnet at the end of that wire instantly turns
round to the right or left, bearing with it the operculum of black paper,
and unveiling a letter. When the key A, for instance, is pressed down
with the finger at the south end, the wire attached to it is immediately put
in communication with the trough; and the same instant the letter A at
the north end is unveiled by the magnet turning to the right, and withdirawing the operculum. When the finger is removed from the key, it
springs back to its place, the communication with the trough ceases, the
magnet resumes its position, and the letter is again covered.
Thus, by pressing down with the finger, in succession, the keys corresponding to any word or name, we have the letters forming that word
or name exhibited at the other end; the name, Victoria for instance,
which was the maiden effort of the telegraph on Wednesday evening.
In the same way we may transmit a communication of any length, using
an asterisk or cross, to mark the division of one word from another, and
the comma, semicolon, or full point, to make a break in a sentence, or
its close.  No proper experiment was made while we were present to
determine the time necessary for this species of communication, but we
have reason to believe, that the letters might be exhibited almost as rapidly
as a compositor could set them up in type. Even one-half or one-third
of this speed, however, would answer perfectly well.
Galvanism, it is well known, requires a complete circuitfor its operation.
You must not only carry a wire to the place you mean to communicate
with, but you must bring it back again to the trough.  (The writer of this
communication, and even Mr. Alexander, was not aware of the discovery
of Steinheil, that the earth would conduct so a's to return the current
without the use of the second wire.-L. T.) Aware of this, our first
impression was, that each letter and mark would require two:wires, and
the machine in these circumstances having sixty wires instead of thirty,
its bulk and the complication of its parts would have been much increased.  This difficulty has been obviated, however, by asimple and
happy contrivance.  Instead of the return wires, extending from the magnet back to the keys, they are cut short at the distance of three inches
from the magnet, and all form a transverse copper rod, from, which a
single wire passes back to the trough, and serves for the whole letters.
The telegraph, in this way, requires only thirty-one wires.  We may
also mention, that the communication between the keys and the trough
is made by a long narrow basin filled with mercury, into which the end
of the wire is plunged when the key is pressed down with the finger.
The telegraph, thus constructed, operates with ease and accuracy, as
many gentlemen can witness.  The term model, which we have employed, is, in some respects, a misnomer. It is the actual machine, with all
its essential parts, and merely circumscribed as to length by the neces8




sity of keeping it in a room of limited dimensions. While many are
laying claim to the invention, to Mr. Alexander belongs the honor of
first following out the principle into all its details, meeting every difficulty, completing a definite plan, and showing it in operation. About
twenty gentlemen, including some of the most eminent men of science
in Edinburgh, have subscribed a memorial, stating their high opinion of
the merits of the invention, and expressing their readiness to act as a
committee for conducting experiments upon a greater scale, in order fully
to test its practicability. This ought to be a public concern; a machine
which would repeat in Edinburgh, words spoken in London, three or four
minutes after they were uttered, and continue the communication for any
length of time, by night or by day, and with the rapidity which has been
described; such a machine reveals a new power, whose stupendous effects upon society no effort of the most vigorous imagination can anticipate.
The principle of Alexander's telegraph is represented in the following
illustration from the work of Alexander Bain, Esq., fig 41. It consists
of but one circuit, so as to make the operation intelligible.
Fig. 41.
-7J -D -LI I
Ais 1a voltaic 3 battery 1 B, atroghflledithercur;,a ky
A is a voltaic battery; B, a trough filled with mercury; C, a key to be
pressed down by the finger of the operator; E, is the end of a conducting
wire, which dips into the mercury when the key is depressed, and completes the electric circuit; D D, is the distant dial upon which the
signals are to be shown; F F, are screens, thirty in number, each being
fixed to a needle, corresponding to the finger keys before described.
When no electricity is passing, these screens remain stationary over the
several letters, &c., and conceal them from view; but when a current is
made to flow, by the depression of a key, the corresponding needle, in
the distant instrument, is deflected, carrying the screen with it, and uncovering the letter, which becomes exposed to view, as at 0.
In the same Magazine, there is an improvement suggested by a correspondent, which is obviously a good one namely, the use of fifteen wires to
represent the whole number of letters, thus: let each of the letter screens
affixed to the movable magnets be wide enough to cover two letters. Then
the positive end of the galvanic battery being connected with the inducing




87
wire, by a touch of the keys, the magnet and screen will move in one
direction and discover one letter.  The negative end of the battery being
thus connected with the same wire, the magnet will move in the contrary
direction, and discover the other letter. There must, of course, be something fixed to prevent the magnet going so far in'either direction as to
discover both letters. The returning wire connected with all the other
thirty, must of course have its connexion with the battery poles reversed,
at the same time as the lettered wire. To prevent oscillation, let each
wire act upon two magnets and screens, one magnet and screen moving
in one direction, but prevented from moving in the other as now. The
current of electricity if reversed, would, on account of this prevention,
not move this magnet and screen in the opposite direction, but it might
the other magnet and screen having a similar stop or prevention, but placed
on the other side of the pole.
Davy's JEeedle and Lamp Telegraph.
This telegraph is called the needle and lamp telegraph, to distinguish
it from the telegraph of Edward Davy, which I will describe in a future
lecture.
"There is a case, which may serve as a desk to use in writing down
the intelligence conveyed; and in this, there is an aperture about sixteen
inches long, and three or four wide, facing the eyes, perfectly dark.  On
this the signals appear as luminous letters, or combinations of letters, with
a neatness and rapidity almost magical. The field of view is so confined,
that the signals can be easily caught and copied down without the necessity even of turning the head.  Attention, in the first instance, is called
by three strokes on a little bell; the termination of each word is indicated by a single stroke.  There is not the slightest difficulty in decipherinf what is intended to be communicated.
"In front of the oblong trough, or box, described by your correspondent, a lamp is placed, and that side of the box next the lamp is of ground
glass, through which the light is transmitted for the purpose of illuminating the letters.  The oblong box is open at the top, but a plate of glass
is interposed between the letters and the spectator, through which the
latter reads off the letters as they are successively exposed to his view.
At the opposite side of the room, a small key board is placed, (similar to
that of a piano forte, but smaller,) furnished with twelve keys; eight or
these have each three letters of the alphabet on their upper surfaces,
marked A, B, C; D, E, F; and so on. By depressing these keys in various
ways, the signals or letters are produced at the opposite desk, as previously
described; how this is effected is not described by the'inventor, as he intimated that the construction of certain parts of the apparatus must remain SECRET.
By the side of the key board, there is placed a small galvanic battery,
from which proceeds the wire, 25 yards in length, passing round the room.
Along this wire the shock is passed, and operates upon that part of the
apparatus which discloses the letters or signal.  The shock is distributed
as follows: The underside of the signal keys are each furnished with a
small projecting piece of wire, which; on depressing the keys, is made to
enter a small vessel, filled with mercury, placed under the outer ends of
the row of keys; a shock is instantly communicated along the wire, and




88
a letter, or signal, is as instantly disclosed in the oblong box. By attentively looking at the effect produced, it appeared as if a dark slide were
withdrawn, thereby disclosing the illuminated letter.  A slight vibration
of the (apparent) slide, occasionally obscuring the letter, indicated a
great delicacy of action in this part of the contrivance, and although not
distinctly pointed out by the inventor, is to be accounted for in the following manner: when the two ends of the wire of the galvanic apparatus
are brought together, over a compass needle, the position of the needle
is immediately turned, at right angles, to its former position; and again,
if the needle is placed with the north point southward, and the ends of
the wire again brought over it, the needle is again forced round to a position at right angles to its original one. Thus, it would appear, that the
slide or cover over the letters, is poised similarly to the common needle,
and that by the depression of the keys, a shock is given in such a way
as to cause a motion from right to left, and vice versa, disclosing those letters, immediately, under the needle so operated upon."-London Jlech.
JVIag. Vol. xxviii., 1837.
JMasson's JMlagneto-Electric Telegraph.
In 1837, Prof. Masson, of Caen, addressed a letter to the French Academy, in which he announced that he had made several trials with a magneto-electric telegraph, for the distance of 1800 feet.  He employed for
the development of the current, the magneto-electric machine of Pixti,
to produce the deflexion of magnetic needles placed at the extremities
of the circuits.  These trials were repeated in October, 1838, with
Brequet, who was at that time one of the members of the Commission
on the Telegraph from Paris to Rouen, but the results obtained were not
as satisfactory as those of Steinheil, Morse, and others; afterwards Masson and Brequet associated themselves together, and invented a new formn
of telegraph, a description of which is not given.-.Moigno TraitW de
Telegraphie, p. 30.
Anmyot's Telegraph.
In a letter addressed to the Academy of Science of Paris, in July, 1838,
Amyot proposed the construction of a needle telegraph. It was to consist
of a single circuit, which would move a single needle, which needle was to
write on paper, with mathematical precision, the correspondence which.was to be transmitted to the other extremity, by a simple wheel, on which
it should be written by means of points differently spaced, the same as
they are on the barrels of portable organs, the wheels to be regulated by
clock work. —.Moigno, p. 31.
Edward Davy's Telegraph.
The next telegraph in, chronological order is that of Mr. Edward Davy,
of London.  The patent for this telegraph was sealed July, 1838, and
published in the Repertory of Patent Inventions, London, July, 1839.
The specifications are very voluminous, and not very intelligible. I have
therefore studied it carefully, and have given the important points, and
a drawing, which fully illustrates the improvements which Davy proposed,
being careful not to omit any vital part of his machine.  In this method
of treating it, I have followed the examples of Moigno and Shellen, two
of the latest writers upon the subject of the history of the telegraph.




In the telegraph of Edward Davy, the decomposing action of the galvanic current is employed to produce marks upon chemically prepared
cloth, or other material; the cloth preferred by the inventor was calico,
and the chemical substance employed by him to prepare the cloth was a
salution of the iodide of potassium and muriate of lime.
He employed a local battery to produce the telegraphic signs by chemical decomposition.  This battery also operated an electro-magnet,
whose armature regulated the movement of the registering instrument.
This battery is also connected with a short independent circuit, which is
closed and opened by the movement of a magnetic needle, surrounded
by a coil of copper wire, which forms part of the main circuit. He employed finger-keys to open and close the circuit; his receiving instrument
being similar in principle to Cook and Wheatston-e's, only closing his
circuit like Mr. Morse, by the contact of solid metals, instead of mercury.
When the main circuit is closed by the finger-keys, the needle is deflected which closes the short circuit; but when the main current is interrupted, the needle opens the short circuit by returning to its original position.
The cloth or other chemically prepared material is drawn between a
metallic cylinder and a series of platinum rings surrounding a wooden
cylinder; by these rings the current from a local battery is passed through
the cemicalliy prepared cloth to tke.net!alle ~ylker at etxeath-p o U xing
signs consisting of simple dashes arranged in six rows. The calico is
moved by clock-work, and this clock-work is regulated by a U electromagnet, with an armature and lever, which at each motion withdraws the
stop from a fly-wheel for the space of a semi-revolution, during which a
single sign is made upon the calico, the clock-work moving always in
proportion to the number of signs transmitted. The platinum rings were
so arranged as to be connected separately or together, at will, with the
other poles of the battery, but insulated from each other.
In his patent three telegraphic wires are represented, which are made
by means of his commutator to connect a local circuit with either of the
six platinum rings, so as to simplify the system of marking necessary to
form the signs for the different letters of the alphabet.
There cannot be a doubt that Davy was informed of the telegraphs of
Morse and Steinheil, by the following remarks at page 12 of his Specifi-.
cations:
"I am aware that it has been proposed to use a marking instrument
with lead or ink, by the aid; of an eleetro-magnet, to make a number of
dots or marks in immediate succession, to indicate the signification of,
such communication; I do: not, therefore, claim the use of marking instruments generally, but only when, they are adapted to make communi —
cations by marks across and! lengthwise of'the fabrie which receives them,
as above described."
The most ingenious portion is the escapement. The figure. represents
the principle of the escapement, and the electro-magnet. A is the voltaic
battery; B lever; N metallic button, to which is fixed the, wire conductor
of the battery; C an electro-magnet; DI the' armature; I is a, clock-weight;
H the band of the wheel that carries the revolving cylinder of the signs, K;,
G is a van or regulator of motion; E a pair of pallets fixed to the armature D. On the side; opposite the axis of motion, is fixed a spring, F, to,
8*




90
separate the armature from the electro-magnet, by which the electric current is broken, and magnetism destroyed. The arrangement is such that
for every revolution of the van G, the cylinder K advances one division, and a letter is impressed. If the lever B rests against the metallic
button N, the metallic circuit of the voltaic battery is immediately established, the electric current passes along the conducting wires of the
electro-magnet C, which instantly attracts the armature D, forces the
superior pallet E to abandon the lever 0, and permits the van to turn.
As soon as it turns half a revolution, it is arrested by the inferior pallet,
Fig. 42.
gainst which the lever touches.  The contact of this lever, being abandonedI the voltaic circuit is instantly broken, magnetism  destroyed, and
th.e spring F leaves the armature in its first position.  This movement
lowers the inferior pallet, sets at liberty the lever 0, and the second half
of a revolution is performed, bringing it into a new position, and arrests
it against lever 0, or superior pallet. For each complete revolution, a
character successively appears.  The operation of successively elevating
and depressing the key, gives the cylinder of signs a circular motion, in
the same manner that the hand of a clock is made to revolve by means
of balancing and escapement. On some cotton fabric are some longitudinal lines, intersected by transverse ones, dividing the surface into little
squares. It is impregnated with iodide of potassium and chloride of lime,
and wound on a cylinder that turns by a weight at each magnetic pulsation.  The current traverses this prepared material, and leaves a well
marked trace in the square indicated by the touch of the director. The
position of the square in the net-work marked on the stuff, determines
the letter or signal.  This mode requires seven or eight lines, an.d has
never been put in practical operation, though patented in January, 1839.
The following are the claims in full, as given in the original publication:
"First, The mode of obtaining suitable metallic circuits for transmitting communications or signals by electric currents, by means of two or
more wires, which I have called signal-wires, communicating with a
common communicating-wire, and each of the signal-wires having a separate battery, and; if desired, additional batteries, for giving a preponder.
ance of electric currents. through the common communicating-wire, as
above described.
"Secondly, I claim the employment of suitably prepared fabrics for
receiving marks. by the action of electric currents for recording telegraphic




91
signals, signs, or communications, whether the same be used with the
apparatus above described or otherwise.
"Thirdly, I claim the mode of receiving signs or marks in rows across
and lengthwise of the fabric, as herein described.
"Fourthly, I claim the mode of making telegraphic signals or communications from one distant place to another, by the employment of relays
of metallic circuits, brought into operation by electric currents.
"Fifthly, The adapting and arranging of metallic circuits in making
telegraphic communications or signals, by electric currents, in such manner, that the person making the communication shall by electric currents
and suitable apparatus, regulate or determine the place to which the signals or communications shall be conveyed.
"Sixthly, I claim the mode of constructing the apparatus which I have
called the escapement, whether it be applied in the manner shown, or for
other purposes, where electric currents are used for communicating from
one place to another.
"Seventhly, I claim the mode of constructing the galvanometer herein
described.
"And lastly, I claim such parts as I have herein pointed out, as being
useful for other purposes, as above described.'"-[Repertory of Patert
Inventions, July? 1839.
Bain's Printing Telegraph.
The following extract of a letter is taken from a work, entitled "An
Account of some, remarkable applications of the Electric Fluid to the
Useful Arts: by Alexander Bain: edited by John Finlaison, Esq. London,
1843," which gives us the date of Mr. Baia's first telegraph:
"Percival Streel, Clerkenwell,; dJug. 28, 1842..
"Dear Sir: —I recollect visiting you early in June, 1840, when you
showed me a model of your electro-magnetic telegraph.
"ROBERT C. PINKERTON."
In July, 1841, it was exhibited and lectured on at the Polytechnic Institution, London. It consists of three principal parts.
1st, The rotary motion given, to the type wheel, step by step motion, like
the second-hand of a clock, until the required letter arrives opposite the
paper.
2d, The means of inking the types, or otherwise making permanent
the imprint of the types upon the paper.
3d, The motion communicated to the paper, so as to bring a fresh surface under the types, and receive the printed intelligence in a continuous
spiral line, until the book is filled.
He uses wire coils freely, suspended on centres, for electro-magnets.
These coils, within and in the vicinity of which are fixed powerful permanent magnets, are deflected as long as the electrical current is passing
through them; but when the electric current is broken, they are drawn
upwards by the force of the spiral springs, the levers are released, and
the machinery of the telegraph, worked by main springs, are left free to
rotate.  The only battery proposed by Mr. Bain is a pair of copper and
zinc plates, one of which is to be buried in the earth at one station, and




92
the other at the distant station, where there is to be a telegraph the exact
counterpart of the first.
I have considered it entirely unnecessary to give a drawing of this telegraph, as it never could be of very great service; and as to the form of
battery, it was entirely out of the question.  The best evidence of this
was, that an entire change was made in it by Mr. Bain in 1846, a description and drawing of which will be found in my article on Galvanic or
Electro-Chemical Telegraphs.
E I find in the same work the following account of some interesting experiments on the earth as a source of permanent voltaic electricity:
"In prosecuting some experiments with an electro-magnetic sounding
apparatus, in the year 1841, it was found that if the conducting wires
were not perfectly insulated from the water in which they were immersed,
the attractive power of the electro-magnet did not entirely cease where
the circuit was broken. For the purpose of investigating the nature of
this phenomenon, a series of experiments took place, with great lengths
of wire, in the reservoir of water at the Polytechnic Institution, when
similar results were obtained. While reflecting upon these experiments,
some few months after they had been performed, Mr. Bain was led to
infer, that if a surface of positive metal was attached to one end of a conducting wire, and an equal surface of negative metal to the other end,
and the two metallic surfaces put into water, or into the i&oist earth, (the
wire being properly insulated,) an electric current would be established
in the wire."
This proposition was soon tested by experiment. A surface of zinc was
buried in the moist earth, in Hyde Park, and at rather more than a mile
distance a copper surface was similarly deposited; the two metals were
connected by a wire suspended on the railing, and on placing a galvanometer in the circuit, an electric current was produced, which passed
through the intervening mass of earth from one plate to the other, and
returned by the wire. In the first experiment, the metallic surfaces being,
small, the electric current produced was feeble; but on using a large surface of metal, a corresponding increase in the energy of the current was
obtained, with which an electrotype process was conducted, and various
electro-magnetic experiments performed with universal success.
It is essential to success, that the earth wherein the plates of metal are
deposited should be of a moist nature.  A current has indeed been obtained in dry soil, but of such small energy as to be of no practical utility.
A patent was solicited for the application of this mode of producing
electric currents to his printing telegraph, and obtained in April, 1841.
This form of battery could never have been of any useful application
to great distances, without an increase of the number of plates and of
the exciting fluid'.
Sturgeon's Electro-Jfagnetic Telegraph.
In the. Alnnals of Electricity for October, 1840, is published a description and drawings of a form of' electro-magnetic telegraph, proposed by
William, Sturgeon, of London, a man who has by his numerous expeIiments and researches into the subject of electricity and magnetism, conferred signal benefits on these. important sciences, and has not received4




the full award of merit even from his own countrymen. The publication
of the.ennals of Electricity alone deserves the thanks of all interested in,
these important subjects, containing as they do a mass of valuable information not to be found elsewhere in our language.
"In describing a new electro-magnetic telegraph, I am necessarily impelled by a similar feeling to that which urged my predecessors to bring
their respective inventions before the public; and I cannot resist the idea
that there will be found a peculiar simplicity both in the structure and
management of the telegraph I am about to describe. Indeed, I shall
point out the structure of two distinct telegraphs, having the sign common to both. Also, a third, differing very materially from the other two.,
"In one of these telegraphs I use six soft iron bars, bent into the form
of horse-shoe magnets, and covered with copper wire spirals, in the usual
way, for converting them  into occasional magnets by electric currents.
To each magnet is a short bar of soft iron for a keeper or cross-piece,
which is attached to the shorter arm of a lever, of the first order; and toe
the extremity of the longer arm of the lever is attached a circular card.
The arrangement of one of these pieces of apparatus is shown by fics..
44 and 45, the former being a side view, and the latter an end view of it:
m, in both figures, represents the magnet, i the cross-piece, a b the lever,.
andf the fulcrum.  The cards at the longer extremities of the six levers
are numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, which, individually, and by a series of
simple combinations, form all the signals that are required.
Fig. 43.
0  ( O 0 0
I = a 12 — h 23     n  34 -- r 45 -= u  56== x
2 =b 13 -- i 24 -- o 35   s 46 = w
3 -  d 14 -k 25 =p  36 -  t
4   e 15   1 26 = q
5   f  16-  m
6   g
Fig. 44.                              Fig. 45.
When the levers are in the position shown in figs. 44 and 45, the
"When the levers are in the position shown in figs. 44 and 45, the
magnet is out of action, in consequence of the battery circuit being interrupted. If, now, the battery circuit were to be closed, the magnet m
would immediately be brought into action, and its attractive force would
bring down the cross-piece i; which, being attached to the shorter arm of
the lever, would raise the longer arm with its card and sign, into the
position of the upper dotted circle, where it becomes visible through a
circular opening in the face of the instrument, as at (5) in fig. 43. When
that particular sign has appeared the required time to be observed, the bat



94
tery circuit is opened, the magnet m loses its power, and the longer arm
of the lever preponderating, again falls down to its first position, and the
card with its sign disappears.
"The face or dial of the telegraph is represented by fig. 43, which may
be either of painted wood or metal, silvered in the manner of clock faces,
or barometer scales. On the upper part of the dial there are six circular
openings, for the occasional appearance of the cards, with their figures,
which are attached to the longer arms of the six levers. (See fig. 44.)
Below the circular openings in the dials plate there are arranged the signals which are to represent all the alphabetical letters that are necessary
for the spelling of words. The signals are thus continually before the
eyes of the operator, and are too simple to miss being understood. These
levers, with their magnets, &c., figs. 44 and 45, are placed behind the
dial in a suitable case, and in such a manner that the figures on the cards
may appear at the circular openings whenever their levers move upwards
by the attractions of their respective magnets at the other, or shorter
arms; and to disappear below those circular openings, whein the magnets
are out of action. To accomplish this latter effect, the face of the crosspiece of iron, which is attached to the short arm of each lever, must be
covered by a card, or a film of some non-ferruginous matter, which will
prevent close contact of the iron and magnet. By this arrangement of the
apparatus, it is a matter of no consequence in what way the magnetic
poles are arranged, because the attraction of the cross-pieces, attached to
the shorter arms of the levers, will take place as well with one arrangement as with another. But for uniformity, we will suppose that the coils
on the magnets are all of the same kind, and that the north poles are to
be in one and the same direction, towards the left hand for instance, to a
person facing them, then those extremities of all the coil wires which were
situated in one direction, might be collected together in one bundle, and
either continued to the station where the battery is situated, or soldered
to one stout copper conductor, at some short distance from the magnets,
which conductor would become a general fixed channel between all the
magnets at this station, and the battery at the other station.  The other
six ends of coil wires must be insulated by silk covering, and continued
to the battery without metallic contact with each other. At the battery
station these six insulated wires are to be attached to six wooden or ivory
keys with springs, like the keys and springs of a piano forte; by the downward motion of which, the extremities of the wires become immersed in a
long trough of mercury, connected with the opposite pole of the battery
to that which the other conductor is attached to. On the top of each key
is to be a conspicuous figure, corresponding to the figure which is to
appear in the dial plate at the other station, so that when one finger is
placed on key 2, and another finger on key 5, the magnets 2 and 5 at the
other station are brought into play,and by attracting their respective
pieces of iron, the figures 2 5 make their appearance on the dial as
seen in fig. 43, and the letter p is understood. By these means, twentyone of the letters of the alphabet can easily be represented without a possibility of error, either in the manipulation at the one station, or in the
reading at the other; unless, indeed, there be a deficiency of attention
which would incapacitate the attendants for employment at any telegraph
whatever.




95
"The keys of this telegraph are sufficiently near to each other to permit
the fingers to press on any number of them at one time, and, if necessary,
the whole of the magnets may be brought into play at once, by the application of three fingers of each hand to the keys. By these means, the
numerals may be grouped into combinations of three, four, five, and six,
and thus, without the slightest confusion, a considerable number of signals would be obtained, which might represent words, or whole sentences,
which would greatly expedite the transmission of intelligence from one
end of the line to the other.
"There is a very great advantage in employing the numerals for signals. Not only because they are not so liable to lead to confusion as by
the employment of the alphabetical letters, when used in combinations or
groups; but because the subject of communication may be kept a perfect
secret from one end of the line to the other; which is a most essential consideration in government expresses, and very often in those of mercantile
affairs also.
"In this telegraph a seventh magnet is employed to ring a warning
bell, as first proposed by Professor Steinheil.
"Although in the telegraph already described I employ soft iron magnets and levers to bring the signals into view, I am of opinion that magnetic needles in coiled conductors, or electro-magnetic multipliers, will
be somewhat more prompt in their motions than the lever, at great distances from the battery. I therefore propose to make the necessary signals by means of magnetic needles, which can be moved with the same
arrangement of conductors as that already described. And although I
have only used six numerals for the signals, I am very far from supposing
that the working of an electro-magnetic telegraph is facilitated or simplified by using a small number of original signals, or by having a small
number of conductors. The simplest method of spelling words would be
to have a needle for each letter of the alphabet, and the telegraph could
be made and worked as easily by 24 needles as by a smaller number.
And the words and sentences, which could be signified by combining
them in pairs, or in groups of two each, would afford great facilities for
the rapid transmission of ideas from one end of the line to the other. The
needles could be placed in three horizontal rows, one above another, on
a vertical dial plate.
Fig. 46.
22    t               t6      7    o     9      ~   ]O
"I have shown a dial plate in fig. 46, on which are placed 10 needles,
with their respective figures or signs. As the needles can be deflected
in only one direction, viz., with the north end towards the figure which
belongs to it, there can be no mistake in understanding what sign is to
be understood. I believe that any of these telegraphs will be found much




96
simpler than those already before the public. They are capable of producing many more signs than any other known, and may be made at a
less expense."
The House Printing Telegraph.
This instrument has been appropriately termed one of the wonders of:the age; its apparent intricacy of construction arises not so much from
the use of electricity and magnetism, as from the number of minute,physical contrivances, and the various methods by which they are brought
into action.
Of' the origin and life of the inventor, 1MVr. Royal E. House, it seems
difficult to obtain any definite or conclusive information; while the results
of his labors are spread before the public, form a prominent object of its
curiosity, and are made subservient in a high degree to its utility, the man
himself seems almost a recluse, and veiled, as it were, from the sight of
the world.  If soame tell us that he originated in New York, more
authentic sources affirm that he was born in Pennsylvania, and reared
among the Green Mountains of Vermont.  To the old Keystone, then,
may we ascribe the honor of having given birth to one who has achieved
so much in the progress of American artizanship.
To converse and carry on intelligent discourse at the distance of many
hundreds of miles, is not new; nay, it has become common; but to impress
with the subtile electric spark through vast space, solid material, with the
symbols of our language in the fulness of their proportionate beauty; to
make the cold, dull, inanimate steel speak to us in our own tongue, surpasses the mythological narratives of ancient Greece and Rome, throws
into the shade the fabulous myths of superstitious Arabia, and sinks into
insignificance the time honored traditions of the Oriental World.
A letter dated Boston, Dec. 23, 1850, received in reply to some inquiries, relative to Mr. House, affords the following interesting information: "Mr. House is a self-educated man, and was engaged nearly six
years in perfecting his instrument; he is decidedly scientific, but not learned,
having devoted much attention to electricity and its kindred sciences; observing the property of a helix or coil of wire to attract an iron bar to its
centre, he proceeded to make some practical application of the fact, and
succeeded in constructing what is termed an axial magnet; his principal
object then, was the construction of a machine adapted for its use, which
he fabricated after many attempts and much perseverance.
Su-ch is the cast of his intellect, that he could form the entire object in
his mind, and retain it there until he had completed its whole arrangement,
without committing any thing to paper; somewhat abstract in disposition,
he is careless about money, little communicative concerning himself, capable of long protracted thought, and completely absorbed in his hobby,
the telegraph; to such an extent is this abstraction carried, that he often
forgets his most faithful and puctilious business promises, and when
sought after to comply with them; is found investigating some interesting
object of science, or deeply engrossed in thought; even with particular
friends he is very reserved about himself.
From some affection of the eyes he was confined to his dwelling




during most of the time spent in contriving his instrument; he resides at
present in New York. An application was made for a patent in 1845 or'46, but it was refused on the ground that some of the specifications
clashed with those of Mr. Morse; one, however, was granted in October
or November of 1848, to date from April 18, 1846.
The stations between which communications are conveyed, are connected by means of a circuit composed of one conducting wire, (see J, fig.
47,) and the ground; the wire is insulated to prevent escape of the electric
fluid by enclosing it throughout its whole length in tubes of guttapercha; the
heat of the sun melts this covering, or renders it so soft as to destroy its
form, and it has been abandoned by all the lines except one; most of them
employ, now as at first, the naked wire, supported on glass knobs fixed
with bits of muslin to iron spikes driven into the post; they were formerly
made of twisted wire and wound around glass knobs; thus exposed to
the atmosphere, they soon became oxidized, requiring frequent repairs,
or the lightning by striking them often played many pranks with the machines and their operators; the action of the current was also very unequal,
owing to the varying electrical conditions of the atmosphere.
Notwithstanding all their precautions, a severe accident of the above
nature, occurred to the House Telegraph in this City, on the 29th of Mray
last; during a severe thunder storm in the afternoon of that day, the
lightning, as was supposed, struck the line about six miles from the city;
it destroyed nearly three miles of wire, melted off the helix of the magnet
here, and terminated with a loud explosion at the battery; several gentlemen were sensibly and severely affected, and one of the operators,
MVIr. Alexander, received a heavy shock, causing vertigo, ringing in the
ears, nausea, and temporary insensibility.
The posts to sustain the wire, are from 20 to 30 feet in height, set 5
feet deep, nine inches in diameter at the base, four and a half at the top,
and about 15 rods distant from each other, that being the medium length
which the kind of wire cited will support of itself and be durable; the
Grove battery is employed to generate the current, of which about thirty
cups are necessary for a distance of 100 miles.
The main constituents of his telegraph, are the composing machine,
the printing machine, a compound axial magnet, a manual power which
sets the two machines in motion, and a letter wheel or tell-tale, from which
messages can be read when the printing machine is out of order.
A composing and printing machine are both required at every station;
the printing apparatus is entirely distinct from the circuit, but all the
composing machines are included in and form part of it; the circuit commences in the galvanic battery of one station, passes along the conductor
to another station, through the coil of the axial magnet to an insulated
iron frame of the composing machine, thence to a circuit wheel revolving
in this frame; it then enters a spring that rubs on the edge of this circuit
wheel, and has a connexion with the return wire, along which the electricity goes through another battery back to the station from whence it
started, to pursue the same course through the composing machine and
magnet there, and all others upon the line; thus the circuit is confined to
the composing machines, axial magnets, conducting wires, and batteries.
9




.98
The composing machine Fig. 47, is arranged within a mahogany frame H,
three feet in length, two in width, and six or ten inches deep; the various
parts of the printing machine are seen on the top of the same case; both are
propelled by the same manual power, which is distinct from the electric
current; it is simply a crank with a pulley carrying a band to drive the
machine, and a balance wheel to give stable motion; one of the spokes
of the balance wheel has fixed to it, an axis for the end of a vertical
shaft to revolve on, that moves the piston of an air condenser G, fastened
to the floor; the air is compressed in the chamber I, fourteen inches long,
and six in diameter, lying beneath the mahogany case H; it is furnished
with a safety-valve, to permit the escape of redundant air not needed in
the economy of the machine.
Fig. 47.
II1ll II111IIIIIl llr ii   I     mll I   IIIIIIII   i
In~Fig. 48.
K.., 
The composing system has an insulated iron frame A, Fig. 48, placed immediately below the keys, parallel with the long diameter of the case; this
has within it a revolving shaft C; the shaft is enclosed for the greater
part of its length by the iron or brass cylinder B; it is made to revolve




99
by a band playing over the pulley D, fixed to the left extremity of it.
The cylinder is detached from the shaft, but made to revolve with it by
Fig. 49.  a friction contrivance, consisting of a spiral spring arising from
the shaft and pressing against the interior of the cylinder; the
I  spring runs the whole length of the shaft: Fig. 49, shows a
transverse section of it; the object of this is to allow the shaft
to revolve, while the cylinder can be arrested.
On the right end of the cylinder, is fixed the brass wheel E, Fig. 48, four
or five inches in diameter, called the circuit wheel, or break; the outer edge
of it is divided into 28 equal spaces, each alternate space being cut away
to the depth of one-fourth of an inch, leaving fourteen teeth or segments,
and fourteen spaces, Fig. 48, E; the revolving shaft and cylinder form
part of the electric circuit; one point of connexion being where the shaft
rests on the frame, the other through a spring F, having connexion with
the other end of the circuit, pressing on the periphery of the break-wheel
E, fig. 48; G, the other part of the circuit coming from the axial magnet to the
frame A; when the shaft, cylinder, and circuit wheel revolve, the spring will
alternately strike a tooth and pass into an open space; in the former case,
the circuit is closed, in the latter it is broken.
For the purpose of arresting the motion of the circuit wheel and cylinder,
the latter has two spiral lines of teeth H, fig. 48, extending along its opposite sides, having fourteen in each line, making 28, one for each tooth, and
one for each space on the circuit wheel; the cylinder extends the whole
width of the key board above it; the latter is like that of a piano-forte,
containing twenty-eight keys that correspond with the twenty-eight projections on the cylinder, and have marked on them in order, the alphabet,
a dot, and dash, Fig. 47; they are kept in a horizontal position by springs;
there is a cam or stop fixed to the under surface of each key directly over one
of the projections on the cylinder; these stops do not meet the teeth unless
the key is pressed down, which being done, the motion of the cylinder
is stopped by their contact; by making the circuit wheel revolve, the
circuit is rapidly broken and closed, which continues until a key is depressed; that key being released, the revolution continues until the depression of another key, and so on; the depression of a key either keeps the
circuit broken or closed, as it may happen to be at the time, so that the
operator does not break and close the circuit, but merely keeps it stationary for a moment; from one to twenty-eight openings and closings of the
circuit take place between the depression of two different keys, or the
repetition of the depression of the same one; the object of the composing
machine is to rapidly break and close the circuit as many times as there
are spaces from any given letter to the next one which it is desired to
transmit, counting in alphabetical order.
The rapid electrical pulsations are transmitted by the circuit of conductors to the magnet and printing machine at another station, through the
wire J, fig. 47. The helix of this magnet is an intensity coil contained
in the steel cylinder A, fig. 47, on the upper surface of the mahogany case;
its axis is vertical.




100
Fig. 50.               Fig. 50, A is a brass tube, eight
or ten inches long, placed within
the helix, and fastened at the botw > ~ ~ o  ~  -    tom by the screw D. To the inner
surface of this tube are soldered six
or eight soft iron tubes, separated
L    B    e  W   from each other at regular intervals.
Above the steel cylinder is an ellipJ 0  2O~B   32,  0 SM    tical ring, F, through the axis of
_ _ _ _ H. e-       which is extended an elastic wire,
G; two screws are attached to the
wire, by which it is made lax or
tense, to suit the intensity of the
electric current. From this is suspended the brass rod, C, that passes
down within the small iron tubes
before mentioned, and has strung
on it six or eight small iron tubes,
L; these are fastened at equal intervals and have their lower extremity
expanded into a bell-like flanch; the
surrounding fixed ones have their
upper ends enlarged inwardly in
the same manner.  The tubes, L,
and the wire to which they are fastened, are movable, so as to come
NW\\U!I             in contact with the small exterior
iron tubes K, fig. 50, but are kept
D                  separate by the elastic spring above.
At E is the brass covering.  On the'transmission of an electric current
through the helix, the tubes become magnetic. Such is the arrangement
of their polarities, that they act by attraction and repulsion, overcome the
elasticity of the spring, and bring the movable magnets down to the fixed
ones;-the current being broken, the spring separates them.  The two
flanches do not come in direct contact, though the movable one acts responsive to magnetic influence. Most of the magnetism exists at the
flanches, and the order is such that the lower end of the inner tube has
south polarity, the surrounding one above, the same, which repels it,
while the top of the surrounding one below has north' polarity, and attracts it;-this movement is through a space of only one-sixty-fourth part
of an inch.
On the same rod, above the movable magnets, is fixed a hollow cylindrical valve, having on its outer circumference the grooves 1, 2, 3, fig. 50.
The plate represents a longitudinal half-section of the valve, magnets, and
helix. The valve slides in an air chamber, H, which has two grooves,
1, 2, on its inner surface. Air is admitted through the orifice I, by means
of a pipe from the air chamber beneath the case, into the middle groove
of the valve. The grooves of the chamber open into the side passages
J and M, which connect at right angles with a second chamber, in which
a piston moves. The movement of the magnets changes the apposition




101
of the grooves in the first chamber, by which air enters from the supply
pipe, through one of the side passages, into the second chamber, at the
same time that air on the other side of the piston in the second chamber
escapes back into the grooves 1 and 2 of the'valve, through the other
side passage, and from them into the atmosphere. This causes the piston
to slide backward and forward with every upward and downward motion
of the valve.
Fig. 51.
This piston moves horizontally, and is connected with the lever, 8, Fig.
This piston moves horizontally, and is connected with the lever, 8, Fig.
51, of an escapement, the pallets of which alternately rest on the teeth of an
escapement wheel of the printing machine A, Fig. 51. This part of the apparatus is arranged on a circular steel plate, twelve or fourteen inches in
diameter, supported by standards on the mahogany frame, H, Fig. 47.
The escapement wheel revolves on a vertical shaft that passes through
the steel plate, and has fixed on it there a hollow pulley. This pulley contains within it a friction apparatus, precisely similar to that in the
cylinder of the composing machine, and is driven by a band running around
another pulley, (M, fig. 47.) The pulley can be made to revolve constantly, while the shaft and escapement wheel may be stopped. The escapement wheel has fourteen teeth, each one of which causes two motions
of the escapement, which will make twenty-eight for a single revolution
of the wheel, which is shown in fig. 52.
Fig. 52.      When in operation, the piston to which the escapement arm 8, fig. 51, is attached, is subjected, on one
side or the other, to a pressure of condensed air; therefore the piston and escapement will only be moved by
the escapement wheel when the air is removed from
one side or the other of the piston. The position ofthe
valve, fig. 50, attached to the magnetregulates the pressure of air on either
side of the piston, by opening one or the other of the side passages into the
second chamber. By breaking and closing the circuit, therefore, the
piston and escapement move backward and forward; thus a single revolution of the circuit wheel at one station opens and closes the circuit
twenty-eight times, causing an equal number of movements of the magnets in another station; they carry the valve which alternately changes
the air on either side of the piston. This permits the escapement wheel
9*




102
to move the escapement and piston twenty-eight times, and allows one
revolution of the escapement wheel for one of the circuit wheel at the
transmitting station.
A steel type wheel, fig. 51, A, B, C, D, two inches in diameter, is fixed
above, and revolves on the same shaft with the escapement wheel; it has on
its circumference twenty-eight equi-distant projections, on which are engraved in order the alphabet, a dot, and a dash. The fourteen notches of
the escapement wheel cause twenty-eight vibrations of the escapement in a
revolution, that correspond to the characters on the type wheel. Every
vibration of the escapement, therefore, makes the type wheel advance one
letter; these letters correspond to those on the keys of the composing
machine. If any desired letter on the type wheel is placed in a certain
position, and a corresponding key in the composing machine is depressed,
by raising that key, and again depressing it, the circuit wheel at one station, and the escapement and type wheel at the other station, all make a
single revolution, which brings that letter to its former position. Any
other letter is brought to this position by pressing down its key in the
composing machine, the circuit being broken and closed as many times
as there are letters from the last one taken to the letter desired.
To form the letters into words, it is necessary that the printing and composing machines should correspond, and for this purpose a small break
and thumb screw, 9. and 10, fig. 51, can be made to stop the type wheel at
any letter. In sending messages, they usually commence at the dot; if, by:accident, the type wheel ceases to coincide with the distant composing machine, the printing becomes confused, the operator stops the type wheel,
sets it at the das, and the printing goes on as before.
Above the type wheel, on the same shaft, is the letter wheel, E, fig. 51,,on the circumference of which the letters are painted in the same order with
those on the type wheel below. It is encased in a steel hood, having an
aperture in it directly over where the letters are printed, so that when the
type wheel stops to print a letter, the same letter is made stationary for a
moment at the aperture, and is readily distinguished; hence messages can
be read, thus making it a visual telegraph.
The type wheel has twenty-eight teeth arranged on the outer edge of
its upper surface; near it, on the opposite side from where the printing is
done, is the shaft T, fig. 51, revolving in an opposite direction. A steel cap,
X, fig. 51, two inches in diameter, is so attached to the top of this shaft that
friction carries it along with it, but it-can be moved in the opposite direction;
it has a small steel arm, three-fourths of an inch long, projecting from its
side, and playing against the teeth on the type wheel; while the latter is
revolving, its teeth strike this arm, and give the cap a contrary motion to
its shaft. There is a pulley on this shaft, below the plate, connected by
a band to M, fig. 47; its speed is less than that of the type wheel. When
the type wheel comes to rest, the arm falls between the teeth, but it has
not time to do so when they are in motion. On the opposite side of the
cap to where the arm is attached are two raised edges, called detent pins,
against which the detent arm, U, fig. 51, alternately rests, as the position
of the cap is altered by the small arm that plays on the teeth of the type
wheel.
Between the type wheel -and.cap, is a small lever and thumb screw, 9,
fig. 51, which acts as a break on the cap; its motion can be stopped by it,




103
while the type wheel revolves; it is used merely to arrest the printing,
though the message may be read from the letter wheel.
The detent arm revolves in a horizontal direction about the vertical
shaft, which is also driven by a pulley beneath the steel plate; when
the type wheel is at rest, the detent arm rests on one of the detent pins,
b ut when it moves, the teeth on its upper surface give the arm and cap a reverse direction to its shaft, which altersthe position of the detent points, so
that the detent arm is liberated from this first pin, and falls upon the second,
where it remains until the escapement and type wheels again come to rest;
when this happens, the arm falls between two of the teeth, the cap resumes
its first position, the detent is let loose, makes a revolution, and stops again
on the first pin.
The shaft that carries the detent arm has an eccentric wheel R, fig. 51,
on it, above the arm; an eccentric wheel is one that has its axis of motion
nearer one side than the other, and while revolving, operates like a crank;
from this eccentric is a connecting rod S, which draws a toothed wheel
against the type; this toothed wheel is supported in an elastic steel arm,
(shut out of view by the coloring band,) on the opposite side of the
type wheel from that of the eccentric, and revolves in a vertical direction;
the band E; fig. 47, carrying the coloring matter to print with, passes between this and the type; the dots seen represent small teeth that catch the
paper and draw it along, as the wheel revolves, between itself and a steel
clasp, operated by a spring that presses the paper against the teeth and keeps
it smooth; the clasp is perforated in such a manner that the type print
through it; there are two rows of teeth, one. above, the other below the,
orifice.
The vertical wheel, fig. 51, is embraced in a ring by the connecting shaft
S, and a rotary motion is imparted to it by a ratchet fixed to its lower
surface, moving with it and catching against two poles fastened to the steel
plate below it; the poles are pressed against the ratchet by springs as
Fig. 53.    shown in fig. 53; the wheel is octagonal, and every
revolution of the eccentric, turns it through one-eighth
of a revolution, and therefore presents a firm, flat surEface to push the paper against the type, and advances
sufficient for every letter, one being printed each time
the detent arm revolves.
When the type wheel stops, the detent arm revolves, that carries with
it the eccentric, which through the connecting rod draws the toothed
wheel having the paper and coloring band before it against the type, and
an impression is made on the paper; a letter is printed if the circuit remains broken or closed longer than one-tenth of a second; about one
hundred and sixty letters in the form of Roman Capitals, can be accurately printed per minute; the roll of paper L, fig. 51, is supported on a
loose revolving wire frame work; on the same standard is a small pulley
W, around which one end of the coloring band runs.
In transmitting a message, the machine is set in motion, a signal is
given, (which is simply the movement of the magnet,) and then with the
communication before him, the operator commences to play like a pianist
on his key board, touching in rapid succession, those keys which are
marked with the consecutive letters of the information to be transmitted;
on hearing the signal, the operator at the receiving station tells his assist



104
ant to turn the crank, setting the machine in motion; then setting his
type at the dash, sends back signal that he is ready, and the communication is transmitted; he can leave his machine, and it will print in his absence; when the printing is finished, he tears off the strip which contains
it, folds it in an envelope ready to send to any place desired. The Governor's Message has been transmitted by this instrument, and published
entire in New York, two hours after its delivery in Albany.
The function of the electric current in this machine, together with the
condensed air, is to preserve equal time in the printing and composing
machine, that the letters in one may correspond with the other; the electrical pulsations determine the number of spaces or letters which the type
wheel is permitted to advance: they must be at least twenty-five per second to prevent the printing machine from acting; the intervals of time
the electric currents are allowed to flow unbroken are equal, and the
number of magnetic pulsations necessary to indicate a different succession
of letters are exceedingly unequal; from A to B, will require one-twentyeighth of a revolution of the type wheel, and one magnetic pulsation;
from A to A, will require an entire revolution of the type wheel and
twenty-eight magnetic pulsations.
The first line operating with this instrument was completed in August,
1850, by the Boston and New York Telegraph Company, between those
cities, passing through Providence, Norwich, Hartford, and New Haven;
they were incorporated with a capital stock of $27,000 by the Legislature of Massachusetts, April 20, 1849; it has also been patented in
England, by Jacob Brett, who is extending the lines through that Kingdoin.
In reply to an inquiry of mine in regard to the number of lines employing this form ot telegraph, I received the following dispatch:-'"The Boston and New York Telegraph Company using House's Printing Telegraph; about six hundred miles of wire; two wires. Stations at
Boston, Mass., Providence, R. I., Springfield, Mass., Hartford, Conn.,
New Haven, Conn., and New York. A line being constructed to connect with the Boston line, running from Springfield, Mass., to Albany, N.
York, there intersect the New York and Buffalo line, using the same
instruments, extending from New York to Buffaloy a distance of five hundred and seventy miles. One wire now in operation, connecting with
Poughkeepsie, Troy, Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Lyons, Rochester, Albion,
Lockport, and Buffalo; and another wire nearly completed, same distance.
The same line to continue to St. Louis, Mo., connecting with Cleveland,
Cincinnati, Louisville, and St. Louis; will be completed the entire distance by January, 1852, forming the longest line in the world under the
direction of one company; whole length being fifteen hundred miles.
The New Jersey Magnetic Telegraph Company, using House's instruments, and the first line ever put in operation, extends from Philadelphia
to New York; one wire, CXXXII miles; another now being put up.
Respectfully, J. W. PHILIPS."
Subjoined is a specimen of the form of printing executed by this machine, kindly offered by the principal operator at this station, Mr. J. W.
Philips, to whom, and the records of the House trial, I am indebted for
most of my information.
HOUSES-PRINTING.TELEGRAPH




105'The Electric Telegraph between England and France.  Extension to Ireland
and Belgium.
The first wires for the Submarine Telegraph were sunk in the British
channel on the 27th of August, 1850. The wire was thirty miles long,
with a covering of gutta percha half an inch in diameter, the wire imbedded by leaden clamps of twenty and twenty-five pounds, to the bottom
of the sea; the clamps were streamed out at every sixteenth of a mile, and
the wire was safely sunk to a depth which was hoped would place it out
of the reach of anchors or monsters of the deep; and the other end of the
wire was run up the cliff at Cape Grinez, to its terminal station on the
French side of the channel, and messages were passed between the two
countries.
But unfortunately for the first effort, in the course of a month, the
wire received so much injury on a rock off Cape Grinez,, as to make
it entirely useless, and upon a careful consideration, the Directors of the
Company determined to lay, instead of one, " four permanent wires."
Upon an examination by divers, it has been found that where the
rupture of the coil occurred, it had rested on a very sharp ridge of rocks,
about a mile out from Cape Grinez, so that the leaden weights, hanging
pannier-like on either side, in conjunction with the swaying of the water,
caused it to part at that point; while at another place, in shore, the
shingle from the beach had the effect of detaching the coil from the
leaden conductor that carried it up the Cape.
The wire, in its gutta percha coating, was consequently cut in two
plkces, representing a remnant of wire of about four hundred yards,
which was allowed to drift away, till it came into the possession of a
fisherman of Boulogne; and it was no wonder that it was cut, being
represented as not thicker than a lady's stay-lace, while it ought to have
been as thick as the cable of those placed in the Britannia tubes in position, say eight or ten inch cable, and to be submerged below five fathoms,
by the aid of enormous weights, so as to avoid all currents.
In the London.Jining Journal for November, 1850, Mr. J. J. Lake,
of the Ordnance Office, Plymouth, proposes, in order to prevent injury
to the telegraphic wires, from the nature of the bottom, to suspend them
by corks placed at intervals, and to secure them to the bottom by anchors
or a dead weight, at certain greater distances, and at each anchor, or
weight, a small buoy, with a flag, could be secured, which would indicate their locality; and in the event of accident, they could readily be
found.
I will now state the present condition of this communication, and the
means taken to secure it from accident; and I will then describe the form
of telegraph which is employed by Mr. Brett. In L'illustration Journal
Universel, for October, 1851, it is stated that in this, the last effort, they
had not calculated for the proper amount of cable, when first taken across
the channel, it requiring a mile more cable, but the accident was soon repaired. The engraving is one taken from that Journal, and they remark
that it is indeed a wonderful work. The cable of wire in which is
enclosed the electrical conductor, was manufactured in the short space
of three weeks, by means of a machine, the invention of Mr. Fenwick,




106
an ingenious English engineer.  It is hoped, that to preserve the conducting wire free from accidents which caused the first experiment to fail,
by the present arrangement four wires are enveloped in a double cover of
gutta percha, and each re-covered with cable lying at the bottom of the
sea.  The covers forming, together, a length of ninety-six miles, over
which is placed a linen covering prepared in a composition of tar, tallow,
&c., and crossing its length the centre of the cable.
Fig. 54.
No. 1, fig. 54, is the first covering of gutta percha; No. 2, is the second
covering, re-covering the first; No. 3, section of the covering No. 2; No.
4, is the wire in the covering of tarred linen; No. 5, is the simple wire of
galvanized iron; the covering is that of zinc; No. 6, is a view of the arrangement of the cable, showing the galvanized iron wire, &c.
To recapitulate:-The rope is 24 miles long, and consists of four copper wires, through which the electric current will pass, insulated by
coverings of gutta percha.  These are formed into a strand, and bound
round with spun yarn, forming a core or centre, round which are laid
ten iron galvanized wires of 5-16ths of an inch diameter, each welded
into one length of 24- miles, and weighing about fifteen tons. The rope
weighs, altogether, about 180 tons; it forms a coil of 30 feet in diameter
outside, 15 feet inside, and five feet high, and was in good working order
in September, 1851. English papers received by the arrival of the
Niagara, on Friday, December 12th, 1851, state that the Submarine
Telegraph is working well. Messages on the same day have been transimitted from London and Liverpool to Paris, Havre, Vienna, Trieste,
Hamburg and Ostend; and in one instance, a communication was forwarded to Cracow, to be despatched thence by. mail to Odessa.
The rates are, for a message of twenty words:From Paris to Calais.                            7f. 56c.
"          Dover,.....   19f. 56c.
"    "    London,....           32f. 81c.
"    "    Birmingham,
From  Paris to Brighton, Cheltenham, Coventry, Gloucester, New
Market, Norwich, Oxford, Portsmouth, Southampton, &c., 26f. 03c.




107
From Paris to Chester, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Holyhead, Liverpool,
Manchester, New Castle, Nottingham, Sheffield, York, 29f. 31c.
Now that the English channel has been crossed in so substantial a manner, and with such perfect success, the crossing of the Irish channel must
follow; for the same Company will perform this important work.
By their act of incorporation they are styled "The Submarine Telegraph
Company between England and France, between England and Ireland,
and the European and American Printing Telegraph," all proposed by Mr.
Jacob Brett, in 1851.
Messrs. Carmichael & Brett have contracted with the Belgian Government for the formation of a submarine telegraph between Belgium and
England. They are to have a monopoly of ten years, and the governments are to have priority of all messages.
Description of Brett's Printing Telegraph, Plate II.
Suppose at one extremity of a single line of telegraphic wire, a small
key board, containing a row of ivory keys, marked with the letters of
the alphabet, and other characters or words; and that it be connected by
the said wire to the printing machine at the other extremity. This machine contains a type wheel, having on its circumference corresponding
letters, words, or signs; a slight electric power is sufficient to regulate
the motion of the whole, so that the instant a key representing any word,
letter, or sign, is pressed down by the person at the key board at one end
of the line, the corresponding word, letter, or sign of the type wheel
prints, and the signal bells ring at the other end of the line of telegraph,
without limit as to distance. The communications are printed on paper
supplied from a scroll of unlimited length, from which any portion of
the correspondence may be cut off at pleasure.
The motive power is simple; it being that of a weight, which sets in
motion the key shaft and governor of the key board; and the circuit
wheel in connexion with the shaft being put in contact with the wire of
the galvanic battery, or other generator of electricity, according to the
velocity of motion and manipulation at the key board, so will the motion
be fast or slow at the printing end of the telegraph; the type wheel of the
telegraph is set at liberty by means of an escapement, and weights in
connexion with it, so as to print with a like velocity, in combination with
an hydraulic or pneumatic regulator, which admits of the desired letter
only being printed, by checking and releasing an eccentric arrangement;
a rod from thence unites with the cylinder on which the paper is printed,
in various modes, as may be desired, either in paragraphs-on a sheet
of paper-upon a long strip of ribbon or paper-or, if for government
despatches and the like, it can be printed line by line, like the column of
a newspaper, of an unlimited length.
Fig. 2 represents a separate key board, of a circular form, from which
communications can be forwarded to any or every station in connexion
with it, the letters, words, or characters being arranged round it on the
keys; and these, if depressed by the fingers, will check the motion of a
pin, or shaft, and also of the circuit wheel fixed to the same axis, at such
given point or key, by which means the operator may make or break the
circuit of conductors at such letter or point..




108
The distance actually proved to act by this telegraph in one continuous
line has been 230 miles, and 340 miles apart, at the rate of 100 letters
per minute. This is a modification of the House Printing Telegraph.
From the year 1847 to that of 1852 there have been so many fancied
improvements made in electro-telegraphs, that it is unnecessary to consume time in describing them. The most important I have noticed in
fill; but in the majority, I have only described a new claim, or a good
modification of an old arrangement.
The three most interesting telegraphs which have been devised in that
time, are those of Henley & Foster, of England; Siemens, of Berlin, and
Allen, of Edinburgh. I have arranged them chronologically, and have
given a list of the publications where they may be found, especially in
the instances where the description given here is limited.
J.Vott's Improvement in Electric' Telegraph, January 20, 1846.-Novel
arrangement of apparatus, by which audible and visible signals can be
given, through the agency of electro-magnetism.-Rep. Pat. Inventions,
1847, p. 97.-(Irish.)
Hatcher's Improvements.-First, consisting in arranging and disposing
of magnets in such a way that when an electric current is transmitted
through them, gives a step by step motion. The second relates to the
means of forming the metallic connexions. Third, in regulating a number of clocks.-Patent, dated March 23, 1847.-(English.)
Reid's Electro-Telegraphic Improvements.-Better insulation of the
wires, by laying them in channels under ground, and covering them
with gutta percha, marine glue, or'tar; using a modified galvanometer
to sound an alarm, and earthenware insulators. —Patent, dated Nov. 23,
1847.-(English.)
Henry Mapple, Wm. Brown, and James Lodge Mialpple, Telegraphic.Machine, June, 1847.-They magnetized a steel dial by electricity, and
thereby made a steel pointer to move over it.-Rept. Patents, Feb., 1848.
Barlow and Foster's Improvements in Electric Telegraphs, Alpril 27,
1848.-First, coating the telegraphic wires with a compound, consisting
of one part by weight of New Zealand gum, and one part of milk of sulphur, added to eight parts of gutta percha, by little and little, while in a
kneading trough, at a temperature of 1200 Fahr. The coating is effected
as follows:-T wo pairs of rollers are made to revolve by means of suitable gearing, at one uniform speed, and each pair is provided with a pipe,
fitted steam-tight, to one end of their axis, through which pipe steam is
admitted at pleasure, which serves to bring the rollers to a temperature
sufficient to soften partially two bands of gutta percha, passed between
them. Then, there is another pair of rollers, which have their surfaces
cut with semi-circular grooves; the grooves of the one roller corresponding or falling right over those of the other. The wires to be covered are
wound upon reels, from which they pass between the second pair of
rollers. The bands or fillets of gutta percha are passed between the first
pair of rollers, (and are so brought into an adhesive state,) and the two
bands of gutta percha, with the wires between them, are in this state
passed between the second pair of rollers, by which the fillets of gutta
percha are made to adhere together, and consequently to envelope the
wires.




Platel..
Electric Primfing Telegraep&I 
-P,.
m-,]Sf~$    JfS     > - k-SEXY2
~te V                     _0  








109
2d, The governing the currents of electricity, so as to cause each
pulsation thereof, separately or conjoined, to indicate different signs or
symbols.
3d, The patentees describe an electric telegraph apparatus for indicating the passing and time of passing of a railway train.
A dial is pierced with fifty holes at regular distances, in which holes
small plugs are placed. This dial is made to revolve once every hour. A
metal spring presses against the face of the dial, and has the effect of
thrusting back any plug that may have been protruded. Above the dial
is an electro-magnet, which attracts, on the passing of an electric current
from the station which the train has just passed, one end of a lever, the
other end of which protrudes the plug immediately underneath beyond
the face of the dial, so that the attendant is enabled, by looking at the
dial, to see whether the train has passed the station, and what time has
elapsed since it passed.-London JIMech. JMag. JVo. 1319,.Nov. 18, 1848.
C. F. Johnson, Oswego, Tioga County, J~Vew York. —Improvement in
Electric Telegraphs, JMay 16, 1848.-Claim.-First, forming signs for
telegraphic purposes, by the dropping of balls upon an endless belt
moving with an uniform velocity. Second, I claim the taking off impressions on paper, from balls as dropped substantially in the manner
described.-Franklin Institute Journal, Vol. xvii, 3d series, p. 310.
John Lewis, Recardo, Lownds Square, JMiddlesex, England, Sept. 18,
1848.-Ist, "Improvement" to a mode of insulating wire for electrotelegraph purposes; and'2d, to an apparatus for suspending them.-.Mechanics' Jkagazine,.March, 1849.
Edward R. Roe, Improvements in the fMachine for Operating or JManipulating JMorse's Electro-.Magnetic Telegraph, JlIay, 1849. —"The invention consists, 1st, of movable metallic types as conductors of electricity
or galvanism; 2d, a metallic type bed upon which they are to rest,
(which is also movable to and fro, somewhat in the manner of a common
printing press;) and 3d, a movable board, which is also a conductor,
and is made to traverse the face of the types, thereby making, continuing,
or breaking the galvanic circuit, according to the form of the types.
Claim.-"-LWhat I claim as my invention is, 1st, The combination of
the body, the socket, the spiral ring, and the wand, with its conducting
point and its non-conducting inclined planes, the.-hole constituting the
traverser.
"2d, I claim the manner of giving the proper motion to the traverser,
by the combination and action of the traverse wheel, the pully, and the
cord which plays in it, the teeth upon the traverse wheel and the brakes
operated by the type bed, in the manner set forth.
"3d, I claim the combination, for telegraphic purposes, of the types,
arranged in the manner described, with the traverse and its wand, and
its conducting point guarded by non-conducting inclined planes."Franklin Institute Journal, Vol. xvii, 3d series, p. 320.
Charles Shepherd, London.-Improvements, s.pril 16, 1849. —lst, The
employment in chronometers, of apparatus actuated by electro-magnetism,
for winding up the remontoir escapement, which is retained by a detent.
2d, Giving audible signals in chronometers by means of a locking
plate, and apparatus connected therewith, worked by electro-magnetism.
10




110
3d, An arrangement of apparatus for making and breaking the circuit.
4th, A peculiar arrangement and adaptation of apparatus, worked by
electro-magnetism to chronometers.
5th, The combination in chronometers and telegraphs, of two pallets
and detents for giving the step by step motion.-Lond. Jllech. JMagaine,
Oct. 20, 1849.
L. G. Curtis, Ohio. —Improvement in Indicating Telegraph, January 16,
1849.-"The basis of the American Indicating Telegraph invented by
me, is upon these principles, viz: Electro-Magnetism, machinery, figures
and signs, and their combinations.
"This end is obtained by means of a revolving disk or dial plate,
marked with successive series of numerals, 0 1 2 3 4, arranged in a
circle or otherwise, said dial plate being revolved by degrees, as the galvanic current is completed and broken by the alternate vibration of the
lever, to which the pallets, armature and springs are attached."-Franlclin Institute Journal, Vol. xviii., 3d series, p. 280.
Caleb Winegar, Jew  York.-Improvement in.Magnetic Telegraphs,
jMarch 20, 1849.-Claim' "~Moving the paper on which telegraphic marks
are made, into and out of contact with a stationary pen, by which means
I avoid the danger of dispersing the ink, which happens when the pen
is rapidly agitated.
"I also claim operating the magnet which effects the movement of the
paper.
"I also claim the arrangement for conveying ink to the stationary pen,"
&c., &c.-Franklin Institute Journal, Vol. xviii., 3d series, p. 361.
M. Dugardin —Method of Insulating the JMetallic Wires intended for
Subterranean or Submarine Telegraph. —"This process consists of two
operations.  The first is the wrapping of ribbon of caoutchouc -4ths of
an inch wxide, and.    of an inch thick, around a metallic Mwire, so that
each turn of the wrapping shall cover about one-half of the preceding
one.  The second consists in wrapping spirally, and T4oths thick, so
that the edge of each turn shall touch the former, but without lapping
over it. The leaden envelope serves to protect the caoutchouc from
blows. (Comptes de l'Academie des Sciences, for January 2d, 1849.)Franklin Institute Journal, Vol. xvii., 3d series, p. 284.
Henry G. Hall, Ohio.-Improvement in Posts for Telegraphs, e-c., Sept.
19, 1848.-Preventing the posts from rolling, by combining the cast iron
or artificial stone shoes with the posts.-Franlclin Institute Journal, Vol.
xxiii., 3d series, p. 102.
Improvements in Electro-Telegraphic Apparatus and JMachinery.  Win.
Thomas Henley, and David George Foster, of Clerklenwell, London, January 10th, 1849.-The invention consists, Firstly, in certain improve(l
arrangements of electric apparatus, whereby a visible index hand or
pointer is directly acted upon by-a single magnet suspended within the
sphere of influence of an electro or other magnet, having each of its extremities converted or resolved into two or more poles.
Secondly, Our invention consists in keeping the magnetic bar, needle,
or pointer in one position for any length of time, or imparting to such bar,
needle, or pointer, any number of distinct deflexions or movements, by




111
means of the current or currents derived from  magneto-electricity, and
also in making use of the residual magnetism to act upon the needle on
its return to its stationary position, instead of the force of gravity; that is
to say, in moving the needle in one direction by the induced current, and
bringing it back to its stationary position by the action of the reversed
inductive current, whereby the motions of the needles are increased in
rapidity, and rendered much more marked and distinct than heretofore.
Thirdly, Our invention consists in certain improved arrangements of
the magneto-electro apparatus used in electric telegraphs, whereby two
distinct currents may be derived from the same magnet, and the reversed
current can be made of equal intensity with the primary induced current, and single or double currents may be sent, as required, through any
required number of instruments at different stations.
Fourthly, Our invention consists in the improved apportionment of
the signs or symbols used in electric telegraphs.  [The object of this new
apportionment is to reduce the number of movements requisite, and it
seems very successfully carried out.  We pass over the details, which
would occupy more space than we can afford to them.]
Fifcthly, Our invention consists of an improved compound of gutta
pe:-cha, suitable for the insulation, covering, and exterior protection of
wire and other metallic substances employed to transmit currents of electricity. We mix the gutta percha nearly in equal portions, by weight,
with sand which has been ground or pounded to a degree of fineness exceeding that of the finest natural sand, or with the siftings of glass paper
manufactories, or glass fragments and particles of any sort, reduced to a
similar degree of fineness, and this either by mixing the pulverized sand
or glass with the gutta percha in a state of solution, or while in a plastic
state.
Sixthly, Our invention consists in the employment of a current reverser
of a peculiar construction, whereby we are enabled to dispense with the
use of magneto apparatuses for the purpose of deriving currents of electricity in the manner before described, and to substitute in lieu thereof,
voltaic batteries, such as are commonly in use for the purpose of transmitting currents of electricity along metallic conductors, such reverser
completing the circuit twice during its motion, by the transmission of a
reversed current, in the manner of the magneto machines.
Seventhly, Our invention consists in the employment, in manner following, of currents of electricity to regulate and govern the motions of
time-keepers, whether the same be influenced by a current from a distant
station or otherwise. We make use for this purpose of the currents of
either magneto or voltaic electricity; but obtained in the latter case without the aid of soft iron from two hollow coils of insulated wire affixed to
the pendulum of the regulator, and surrounding the poles of two permanent horse-shoe magnets, which coils vibrate in the direction of their
length alternately, off one pole on to the other, a current being induced
at each vibration, but in opposite directions.
Claims.- 1. We claim in respect to electric telegraphs, and to all machines or machinery, to the moving of which electricity is or may be applied, the difflerent arrangements of apparatus described under the first
head of this specification, in so far as respects the division of each pole




112
of the magnet into two or more poles, and the direct action on the index
hand or pointer, or other recipient of the magnetic influence.
2. We claim the mode of causing the index hand or pointer to be permanently deflected (that is, for any length of time required) in one direction, and bringing it back by the reversed current to its original stationary
position, and keeping it there, as before described.
3. We claim the three several magneto-electric apparatuses described
under the third head of this specification, in so far as regards the peculiar
arrangements and combinations, whereby two distinct currents are obtained
from the same magnet, the reversed current is obtained of equal intensity
with the primarily induced current, and either single or double currents
may be sent as required through any number of instruments at different
stations.
4. We claim the improved system of visible symbols suitable for electric telegraphs, before described and exemplified.
5. We claim the employment in electric telegraphs, and in all other
machines and machinery to the moving of which electricity is applied, of
the peculiar compound of gutta percha, before described, for purposes of
insulation and protection.
6. We claim the improved current reverser, before described, in so far
as respects the effecting by a single depression of the lever or key, the
completing, reversing, and breaking of the electric current.
7. We claim the application of currents of magneto-electricity to regulate the motion of time-keepers in the peculiar manner described under
the seventh head of this specification; that is to say, in so far as regards
the obtaining of the currents from the inductive action of permanent
magnets and coils of insulated wire without the aid of soft iron.  And,
8. We claim the application to the regulating of time-keepers of
currents of electricity (whether magneto or voltaic) transmitted from a
primary or standard clock by the improved apparatuses and instruments,
and by the peculiar modes before described, that is to say, in so far as
regards the alternate transmission of the current in opposite directions,
and the different mechanical arrangements whereby that is effected.London MJech. JMag., Vol. Ii, p. 148.
Henley's MJagneto-Electric Telegraph. —An experiment has been made
under the direction of the French Government, to test the efficacy
of Mr. Henley's Magneto-Electric Telegraph, which is worked without
batteries of any kind, and at a fraction of the cost of the voltaic system.
The line of railway assumed for the trial was that from Paris to Valenciennes.  The persons present at the two stations were, the Director of the
French telegraph, a Commissioner appointed by the Belgian Government,
and a few others.  The distance is 180 miles, being the longest telegraph
line in France. After a most satisfactory series of trials on the single
distance, first with full power, and afterwards with one-twentieth of the
power, the wires were connected so as to treble the total length of wire,
making 540 miles to and from Paris and back; the magnetic message
being communicated through the first wire, back by the second, through
the third, and back again by the earth. It was not anticipated that the
magnet could possibly work through this resistance; but in fact, it is
alleged it was worked as directly and rapidly as when only made to




113
traverse the 180 miles with full power.  The ordinary telegraph, with
battery power, used by the French Government, was then put in requisition, but not the slightest effect was produced.  On the single distance
even, a signal was not obtained for several minutes, owing, it is said, to
some fault in the batteries.  The Government officers and others inspecting the working operation, expressed themselves thoroughly satisfied
with the series of trial.-London Mining Journal, 1850.
Highton's Improvements in Electric Telegrap.4s.-On February 7, 1850,
Mr. Edward Highton, Engineer, Middlesex, England, patented the following arrangement of telegraphic circuits:. "Two or more signalizing
instruments, and to each instrument two batteries are eonaee~ed, so placed
in regard to their poles as to work in opposite directions. A method of
working electric telegraphs by the inductive influence of electro-magnets,
making the dials, which carry the letters or characters, movable, instead
of the pointers.  As many of his claims are old, I only notice such as are
important. He incloses his wires in flexible materials., such as lead:; this
was done in 1844, by Prof. Morse.  The protecting the telegraphic wires
by enveloping them in masonry; also, enameling the exterior surfaee of
gutta percha coating of electric wires by rubbing the surface over with
naphtha, or other solvents, and then sm.oothing it down by a eushion or
brush.
A method of constructing the supporting posts out of a number of
planks firmly united together, instead of out of one piece of timber, cut
taperingly, as has hitherto been the custom.
Removing the atmospheric electricity which is collected during storms
or other atmospheric disturbances, by atausing the line wire, or a bar of
iron connected thereto. previously enclosed in bhiulous paper, or other
fabric, to pass through a mass of iron filings.-London dMlech. Jlag., JNo.
1413, Sept. 1, 1850.
Brown and Williams's fImprovements in Electric and JMagnetic Telegraphs, Mliarch 17, 1850. —The only new claim- is a method of protecting
the conducting wires of electric telegraphs by strands of hemp put on by
a braiding engine, and then coating the whole by gutta percha. Anti a
method of connecting the transmitting wires by screwing one end of a
wire into a nut formed on the e-orresponding end of the next wire.Lond. 1lech. MJag., MIarch 7, 1850.
W. S. Thomas's Improvements in Electric Telegraphs, patented Feb. 12,
1850. Claim. —What I claim as          the making of signals or marks
for telegraphic purposes, by the ageney of heat, generated, induced, or
controlled by a current of electricity passed along attenuated conductors,
wires, or points; the signals being the flashes, of light emitted by the
heated conductor or points, are manifest to the eye of the operator; the
marks being produced on the paper by the heated point or conductor are
the record of the message. —Journ. Fanklc. Inst., Sept. 1850.
JIlr. J. L. Palvermacher,. C. E., of Vienna. Improvement in Galvanic
Batteries, in Electric Telegraphs, and Electro-JMagnetic and Magneto-Eectric JMachines.-I only notice his improvements in electric telegraphs,
that is to say, in so far as regards, 1st, A method of varying the intensity of the current, either by increasing or diminishing the number of
elements employed, or by interposing more or less powerful resistance to
10*




114
the current.  2d, The imprintinig letters or signs by one completion of
the current. 3d, The substitution of a letter cylinder for the letter wheel
ordinarily employed, and a method of arranging the letters and signs on
each cylinder. 4th, The application of a double escapement, each capable of assuming four directions, and each producing effects different from
those produced by the others.  5th, The employment of four electro-magnets, to act on two soft iron bars, and thereby render a weak galvanic
current available in two directions, and productive of two separate and
distinct effects. Anrd, 6th, The method of' gradually detaching the keeper
from  the electro-magnet, by causing the springs which act upon the
keeper magnet, to come only successively into operation.-Lond. Jllin.
Journ. Vol. XX, p. 323, July, 1850.
JMitchell's Electric Telegraph.-At a recent meeting of the Philosophical
Society of Glasgow, Alexander Mitchell, in a lecture on the electric telegraph,.introduced some improvements stated to have been made by him
in the general arrangement of the instrument, in the use of only one wire,
and in the great facility by which the instruments can be worked. As
given in a Glasgow paper, it appears that letters are arranged in a segment in front of the operator, and corresponding ones inscribing on keys
similar to those of a piano-forte.  On pressing down a key, the corresponding letter is immediately pointed to by a needle, a similar movement
taking place at every station throughout the circuit.  We know not if
Mr. Mitchell was the first constructor of this kind of telegraph, but we
do know that a similar one was exhibited Iwo years since at the Society
of Arts; and we also know that several iniventors of telegraphs have been
content to use only one wire, employing the earth for the return circuit.Lond..Mining Journ. Vol. XX, 21pril 13th, 1850.
J.ustin F. Parkc's Improvements in Electric Telegraph MJlanipulators,
Troy, AJ\ew York, August 27, 1850. —"The nature of my invention consists in arranging machinery for closing and breaking an electric telegraph
circuit in transmitting intelligence, whereby the operator, by giving a
finger key one instantaneous touch, as distinguished from the prolonged
touch applied to the key in ordinary machines, closes and breaks the
electric circuit, at and during such time as is required to signal or record
a telegraphic sign for a letter, 4igure, or other character." —Journ. Frank.
Inst., Vol. XX, p. 245.
The machine is stated to be ingenious, but unfortunately it is too complicated; the advantages of its use are to prevent mistakes from being
nade by telegraphic operators.  I have not given the claims, as it could
not be understood without a drawing.
Charles S. Bulkley's Improvements in Repeaters for Electro-JMagnetic
Telegraphs, MJacon, Bibb Co., Georgia, J'A"v. 12, 1850. Claim.- "What
I claim as my invention is, the manner of connecting two galvanic circuits
with the two electro-magnets, (a a, and d d, in the said repeater,) each
of the said galvanic circuits, as It passes through my said telegraphic
repeater, embracing in its course the armature of the opposite electromagnet, in the said instrument, previous to its passing through the helices
in the eleetro-magnet, embraced in its o'wn respective circuit.
"In combination with the above, I also claim the connecting the points,with the galvanic battery (or batteries), when the said points are placed




115
in such positions in relation to the armatures of the electro-magnets in
my said telegraphic repeater that when either one of the said electro-magnets is charged, it will, by attracting its armature against one of the points
I or i, close the poles of the galvanic current in which the opposite electro-magnet (in the instrument) is in connexion, and thereby throw the
battery into said circuit."-Journ. Frankcl. Inst., Vol. XXI, 3d series.
The object of this repeater is for the purpose of repeating or recording
a communication in several places at once along a line, and at the same
time allowing the galvanic circuit to remain open when the line is not in
use.
Siemens' Improvements in Electric Telegraphs.-Ernst Werner Siemens,
of Berlin, patented in England, April 23, 1850, the following improvements: Claims.-"lst, The constructing electro-magnets for telegraphic
purposes, of longitudinally divi(led tubes of iron or other magnetic metal,
or of bundles of wire of iron or other magnetic metal.
"2d, The construction of instruments, for obtaining motion for telegraphic purposes, by means of one or two-electro magnets revolving on
their axes within the fixed coils, by which they are rendered magnetic,
or mounted on a transverse axis, and( vibrating from side to side within
the coils, by which they are magnetized.
"'3d, The construction of instruments for producing motion for telegraphic purposes by means of metallic spiral coils or bands traversed by
electric currents, and attracting or repelling each other; also producing
motion in such spirals by the proximity of permanent magnets, which at
the same time serve to produce electric currents by induction for working
telegraphic apparatus.
"4th, The construction of the conducting contact pieces of alloys of
platinum, iridium, or palladium with gold or silver, whether such alloys
be further alloyed by the admixture of other metals or not.
"5th, The construction of electric telegraphic printing apparatus in
such manner that the magnet which works the step by step motion, breaks
and restores the circuit by the oscillation of the armature, or of the moving
magnet itself.
"6th, The combining of electric telegraphic printing apparatus in the
same circuit with indicating apparatus, when the magnets which work
the step by step motion of either or both instruments break and restore
the circuit by the oscillation of the armatures, or of the magnets themselves.
"7th, The impression of the types on the paper at the irsistant that the
type-wheel stops, by arranging the electro-magnet which acts on the hamner, so that the short intermittent currents which work the electro-magnet
of the type-wheel traverses the coils of this inagnet without producing
motion of the armature, which, however, is set in motion when the current is rendered continuous by the stoppage of the type-wheel.
"8th, The arrangement of the magnet which acts on the hammer in
electro-telegraphic printing apparatus, so that its own circuit is broken by
the magnet itself towards the end of its stroke.
"9th,'The arrangement of apparatus in electric printing apparatus in
such manner that the printing is effected by pressing the type against
paper, in contact with an inked roller.




116
"'Il~th, An arrangement for retaining the moving piece which breaks
and restores the electric circuit in its respective positions.
"lath;, The application of a small pin for preventing the overrunning
of the ratchet-wheel in electric telegraphic apparatus, with the step by
step motion.
"'12th, The arrangement of a transmitting apparatus with an indicating
or printing electric apparatus worked by step by step motion, or with both
together, in such manner that the transmitting apparatus breaks and restores the circuit of the telegraphic apparatus, which reciprocally breaks
and restores the circuit of the transmitting instrument.
"13th, The combination of a self-acting.alarum, with a transmitting
apparatus.
"14th, The combination of a self-acting alarum with a transmitting
instrument, which breaks and restores the circuit of the alarum  magnet,
which in its turn reciprocally breaks and restores the circuit of the transmitting instrument.
"15th, The combination of one or two cylinders carrying pins, with a
series of springs and keys, for mnaking contacts fortransmitting a distinct
determinate succession of electric currents in one or both directions by
the depression of each key.
"16th, The employment of an implement of the nature of a plough,
and revolving cutters for making trenches or channels to receive underground line wires.
"17th, The application of the propelling power of a locomotive engine
to giving motion to such implements.
"'18th, Conducting under-ground line wires into the ground, by means
of suitable guides, which either form part of, or inamediately follow, the
cutting instruments.
"'19th,'ihe followimg improvement in the manufacture of coated wire
faor electric telegraphic purposes: first, an arrangement of machinery for
coating the wire, with two cylinders and pistons, by which the pressure
of the semni-fluid mass against the wire is equalized; 2d', arranging these
eylinders, (or cylinder when only one is used,) so that they may be removed and replaced by others, while the former are being discharged;
and, 3d, the consolidating of gutta percha or its compounds within these
cylinders in vacuo.':20th, The testing of coated wire for telegraphic purposes, by passing
it through water, with which is conneeted an apparatus capable of producing electric shocks, so that the rircuit may include the person of the
operator, and may be completed by the passage of the electricity through
the defects in the coating in the wires.
i21st, The covering of insulated under-ground line wires with strips
of sheet lead.:"22d, Establishing a direct communication between under-ground
Iine wires and the earth, by means of a thin wire of German silver, or
some other imperfectly conducting substance, so that the resistance to the
passage of the electricity may be capable of being regulated at pleasure.
London JMechanics' Mlagazine, NJVo. 1421, J3Vov. 2, 1850.'An interesting report of M. Siemens' telegraph to the Academy of Sci



117
ence, Paris, wvil[l e fouund in VOL. XXI, Third Series, of this Journal, p. 209
and 255-15, 1850.
The commission conclude their report of M. Siemens' apparatus in the
following words: "The commission have examined M. Siemens' appara —
tus with great interest, and remarked throughout, an evidence of a perfect intelligence of the theory, as M. Siemens appears to have taken into,
account all the complicated phenomena which are manifested in the conductors and electro-magnets, especially when the actions are of short duration.
"M. Siemens' system, if worked with care and attention, appears to
possess incontestible superiority over all other apparatus of the like nature, that is to say, the ordinary arrangement of alphabetic apparatus; as
the latter do not work with the same degree of precision and accuracy.
With regard to speed, the commission are led to believe that M. Siemens'
apparatus surpasses all other alphabetic apparatus; their opinion is, also,
that M. Siemens' improvements in the construction of electro-magnets
will prove advantageous."
Horn's Igniting Telegraph, patented June 25, 1850.-The register invente(d by G. H. Horn, of Boston, employs a principle, namely, the heating or'
igniting effect of electricity. When an electrical current flows through a
fine platinum wire it ignites it, or brings it to a red heat.  If this wire is
bent, as at A, in figure 55, so as to be in contact, for a short distance, with a moving fillet of paper, it will burn a hole through the paperwhen the current passes.  This can be done with great rapidity, so as
to represent probably a hundred linear letters per minute.
Fig. 55.
This instrument, the greater part of which consists of the clock-work,
spool, &c., required for moving the paper. Above the clock-work are
two pillars, supporting an axis, upon which is the adjustable wire-holder,
the lower extremity of which is seen touching the fillet of paper.  By
means of the connexions and insulations of the pillars, axis, and wire



118
holder, the platinum wire, which passes over a little slip of porcelain at
the end of the wire-holder, becomes part of the circuit, with which the
two screw-cups on the right of the base-board are connected. When
the wire needs adjustment, the wire-holder can be turned up on its axis.
The bed supporting the fillet of paper is also adjustable, so as to regulate
the contact between the wire and the paper.
This register requires a quantity current to produce the effect of ignition, and therefore needs a receiving instrument and local battery, to be
operated by the telegraphic circuit.-Book of the Telegraph, p. 37.
This telegraph is the same in principle with that patented by Wm. S.
Thomas, Feb. 13, 1850.
Before concluding these lectures I will here notice two telegraphs
which I have omitted in their regular order, and first of
The Telegraph of Brett and Little of London.-The magnet employed
in this telegraph is in the form of a ring or horse-shoe, and is suspended
in the centre of helices of copper wire, which are double and of a circular form. This magnet is deflected either to the right hand or to the
left, according to the direction of the current.  The indicators are not
magnets, but are moved by the agency of the magnets, by which a distinct and certain indication is insured.
Another modification of this instrument has been made by Mr. Little,
which is as follows: the patent instrument is of the form of a disk of mahogany, about 1 foot high by 8 inches broad, standing in a vertical position
on a pedestal; the only appliances at the back being the metallic buttons,
or binding screws, necessary to convey the galvanic fluid from the battery to the indicators.  Two tubes of glass about one-fourth of an inch
in diameter, and 3 inches high, are placed in front of the disk, with the
alphabet engraved on a metallic plate placed between them, with the
number of deflexions required to express each letter, stated in plain
figures. On the top of each of these tubes, which contain spirits of
wine, is a small but powerful cylindrical magnet about one-fourth of an
inch in diameter, from the bottom of which are suspended by magnetic
attraction, two needles with the points upwards.
On completing the galvanic circuit, these needles are deflected with
equal rapidity with one on an axis; and on breaking connexion, the needle
is instantly arrested in its fall to the perpendicular by the density of the
fluid, with almost as dead a stop as the seconds hand of a watch, avoiding the vibration so annoying in the old system, which tends so much to
puzzle and mislead. —Lond. JMining Journ., Vol. XXI, p. 183.
Bakewell's Electric Telegraph. —'Iis is a modification of the instrunent of Alex. Bain, Esq., noticed underthe head of Electro-chemical Telegraphs, employing the same chemical agent, but instead of holes cut in
paper, the message to be sent is written on a sheet of tin foil with
sealing wax varnish; this is placed on the transmitting cylinder; all the
lines of the non-conducting varnish serving to break the connexion. On
the receiving cylinder, a sheet of paper moistened with acidulated ferro
prussiate of potash is placed. When the connexion is completed, electrochemical decomposition is effected; and where any interruption occurs,
no change takes place.
Improvements in Electric Telegraphs, by John.McGregor.-In No. 1409




119
of the London JMechanics'.Magazine, for 1850, there is a notice of a patent
for some improvements in Electric Telegraphs, and amongst the abstract
of claims is the following: —
"8. An arrangement for sounding one out of a number of alarums."
It is impossible, of course, to infer from this brief notice what are the
particulars of the invention, and I am not aware of the mode at present
adopted. If there be none, by which one only out of a number of stations may be signalled, then I would propose for consideration a plan for
effecting this desirable object which occurred to my mind some time ago.
Let the accompanying figure represent a             F  13  Fig. 56.
wheel, with marks 1, 2, 3, and 4, at equal               ID
distances on the circumference, and corresponding in number to the whole number of
stations, say 60, connected by telegraph.
Let the axle of this wheel be made to turn
once in a minute by clock-work, -and the
wheel be so placed on the axle that so long as
a detent D rests on a projection P (opposite
to the mark 0), the wheel shall be at rest; but
when D is lifted (by electricity), the wheel
shall have sufficient friction-hold on the axle
to cause it to turn round in the same time-that is, once in a minute.
Now let R be a radial arm, capable of being placed at any of the marks
1, 2, 3, &c., and furnished with a projection T, which shall always pass
free of D, but be caught by a catch C, provided that catch descends when
Tr is within a certain distance on either side of the line C M. The catch C
is supposed to be moved by electricity, and if it falls so as to strike T,
the wheel will be stopped, a certain circuit completed, and a bell rung;
but if C does not fall on T, it will be wholly inoperative on the machine.
A wheel similar to that described should be at every station, and in
general the radial arm R, at each station, should be left opposite to the
particular number denoting that station.
Thus the arm R, at No. 2 or No. 27, will be at angles at the line D M,
particularly representing such stations respectively.
Supposing magnets, circuits, and bells to be so arranged that the bell of
each station shall be set ringing only when a current is completed through
C and T, we may describe the action of the instrument as follows:
If station N\Vo. 20 requires to correspond with ]V'o. 35, then1. Put the arm R opposite the mark 35 on the rim.
2. Send a current along the wire which will release the detents D at
all the stations, and all the wheels will commence moving (at nearly the
same rate.)
3. When the point T comes under C, (that is, in 35 seconds,) the similar point at station No. 35 will then be beneath its catch; therefore send
another current along the line, which will affect only wheels No. 35 and
No. 20, and will ring the bell of 35.
4. After the communication of the message, return the wheels 20 and
35 to their original position. All the other wheels will have gone round
for one minute, and will themselves have come into the exact position they
were in at first.




120
By this means, the average time (in the above supposed circumstances)
required to signal one station would be half a minute; but if that should
be thought too long(!) the wheels might move at double the proposed
rate, and the convenience of this plan will depend on the time of revolution of the wheels, and the amount of margin which can be permitted on
either side of a perfect agreement of their motions.
We shall see that a comparatively inaccurate adjustment would not
impair the usefulness of this simple apparatus; for if the catch C were
made of such a breadth as to operate on'i', when it is at the distance from
the line M C represented by nearly half an interval on either side of that
line, an error of nearly half a second in a minute may be allowed without
deranging the instrument.




ON THE
TELEGRAPHIC LINES OF THE WORLD.
UNITED STATES.
In giving an account of the number of telegraphic lines, it will
be proper to place the United States as first on the list, from the
number and extent' of the lines, and from the extensive use made of
them in every department, both for business and pleasure. Still, it will
be but an approximation to the number, for they are like the spider's
web, forming a complete network over the length and breadth of the
land, from the extreme north-eastern point to the western boundary of
Missouri, adjoining the Indian territory. A continuous line of telegraph
now extends from the verge of civilization on the western frontier (east
of the Rocky Mountains) to the north-eastern extremity of the United
States; and the time is not far distant when we shall have a telegraph
from the Mississippi river to San Francisco. This is no fancy sketch, as
the route is already selected for the California line, and a most interesting Report was presented to the Senate of the United States in the session
of 1851, by the Committee on Post Offices and Post Roads.
"The route selected by the Committee is, according to the survey of
Captain W. W. Chapman, U. S. Army, one of the best that could be
adopted, possessing as it does great local advantages. It will commence
at the City of Natchez, in the State of Mississippi, running through a well
settled portion of Northern Texas, to the town of El Paso, on the Rio
Grande, in latitude 32~0; thence to the junction of the Gila and Colorado
rivers, crossing at the head of the Gulf of California, to San Diego, on
the Pacific; thence along the Coast to Monterey and San Francisco. By
this route, the whole line between the Mississippi River and Pacific
Ocean will be south of latitude 330; consequently, almost entirely free
from the great difficulties to be encountered, owing to the snow and ice
on the Northern route, by the way of the South Pass, crossing the Sierra
Nevada Mountains in latitude 39~. The whole distance from the Mississippi to San Francisco will be about 2400 miles."
The great benefits to be derived, the, Report fully and ably sets forth,
whether in a military, commercial, or social point of view.
"In a commercial point of view, the line in question assumes a gigantic
importance, and presents itself not only in the attitude of a means of communication between the opposite extremes of a single country, however
great, but as a channel for imparting knowledge between distant parts of
the earth. With the existing facilities, it requires months to convey information from the sunny climes of the East to the less favored, in point
11




122
of climate, but not less important regions of the West, teeming as they
do, with the products of art and enterprise.  Let this line of wires be
established, and the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans become as one, and intelligence will be conveyed from London to India in a shorter time than
was required ten years since to transmit a letter from New York to Liverpool."
"Nor does the importance of the undertaking claim less interest, when
regarded in a social point of view. California is being peopled daily and
hourly by our friends, our kindred, and our political brethren. The little
bands that a few centuries since landed on the Western shores of the
Atlantic, have now become a mighty nation.  The tide of population
has been rolling onward, increasing as it approached the setting sun,
until at length our people look abroad upon the Pacific, and have their
homes almost within sight of the spice groves of Japan. Although separated from us by thousands of miles of distance, they will be again restored to us in feeling, and still present to our affections, through the help
of this noiseless tenant of the wilderness."
In the Congressional Globe of April 6, 1852, Mr. Douglass presented the
memorial of Henry O'Reilly, proposing a system of intercommunication
by mail and telegraph, between the Atlantic and Pacific States.  All he
asks is permission to establish a telegraphic line from the Mississippi Valley, where the wires now terminate, to the Pacific Ocean, and to be
protected by a line of military posts, so that he can keep up the communication for the benefit both of the Government and of the public. Mr.
O'Reilly states in this memorial, that within two years from this time,
with this line completed, he would be able to deliver the European news
on the shores of the Pacific within one week from the time it left the
European Continent. The motion was referred to the Committee on Territories.
These are but a part of the advantages set forth in the bill, with a
strong recommendation from the Committee for its passage.
The autJorities of Newfoundland have granted to Mr. H. B. Tibbatts
and associates, of New York, the exclusive right to construct and use the
magnetic telegraph across that island, for the period of thirty years. The
grant is designed to facilitate Mr. Tibbatts in his scheme for the establishment of steam and telegraphic communication between New York and
Liverpool or London, in.five days. The telegraph is to extend from New
York to St. Johns, from whence a line of steamers is to run to Galway,
where another line of telegraph is to commence, extending to London.
This latter line will, it is said, be completed during the current year. The
distance from St. Johns to Galway is 1647 miles, or about five days' sail.
There are numerous lines in actual and successfuloperation under the title
of Morse, HIouse, and Bain, each giving every facility to the business man.
A recent letter from Charles T. Chester, Esq., Telegraphic Engineer,
who is connected with the Morse Line, the first and most extensive one
in the United States, gives the following statistics of the facilities for the
transmission of intelligence along their lines in the chief cities of this
country.
"Three Morse wires run to Boston, three to Buffalo, five to Philadelphia,
four to Washington, and two on to New Orleans; on the Western and
Canada routes there is generally but one."




123
New York and Boston Magnetic Telegraph Company, from N. York
to Boston, about 250 miles; three wires, one passing through Providence,
R. Island, the other through Springfield, Mass., using the Morse patent.
AMerchant's Telegraph Company, from New York to Boston, about 250
miles; two wires passing through Providence, using Bain's patent.
Boston and Portland Telegraph Company, fiom Boston to Portland,
100 miles; one wire, using Morse's patent.
The Merchant's Telegraph Company have one wire from Boston to
Portland, 100 miles; Bain's patent.
The New York and Boston Telegraph Conlpany, and Merchant's Telegraph Company, between New York and Boston, have consolidated and
formed one company under the title of N. York and N. England Union
Telegraph Company; Boston and Portland are also included in the new
Company, which extends from New York to Portland.
Maine Telegraph Company, from Portland to Calais, Maine, about 350
miles; one wire; Morse's patent.
St. Johns and Halifax line, from Calais to Halifax, about 400 miles;
one wire; Morse's patent.
There is a line of Bain Telegraph from Boston through N. Hampshire
to Burlington, Vt., thence to Ogdensburg, New York; about 350 miles;
one wire.
New York, Albany, and Buffalo line, from N. York to Buffalo, through
Albany and Troy; 513 miles long; three wires, using Morse's patent.
New York State Telegraph Company, from N. York to Buffalo, via
Albany, two wires; 550 miles long; with a branch from Syracuse to Ogdensburgh, via Oswego; about 150 miles; one wire: also a branch from Troy
to Saratoga, 36 miles; one wire; use Bain's patent. There is also a
Morse line from Syracuse to Oswego, about 40 miles.
House Telegraph Company, from N. York to Buffalo, via Albany, 550
miles; two wires; use House's patent.
New York and Erie Telegraph, from New York to Dunkirk, via Newburgh, Binghamton, and Ithaca; 440 miles, one wire; Morse's patent.
New York and Erie Railroad Telegraph, for Railroad use, along the
line of N. York and Erie Railroad, 460 miles; Morse's patent.
Magnetic Telegraph Company, from New York to Washington, via
Philadelphia; seven wires, 260 miles; Morse's patent.
House Line from New York to Philadelphia, 100 miles, one wire;
House's patent.
Troy and Canada Junction Telegraph Company, from Troy to Montreal,
through Burlington, Vt., 260 miles; one wire; Morse's patent.
Erie and Michigyan Telegraph Company, from Buffalo to Milwaukie,
via Cleveland, Detroit, and Chicago; one wire all the way; second wire
from Buffalo to Cleveland; 800 miles long; Morse's patent.
Cleveland and Cincinnati Telegraph Company, from Cleveland to
Cincinnati; 250 miles long; two wires; Morse's patent.
Cincinnati to St. Louis, via Indianapolis, 400 miles long; one wire;
Morse's patent.
Cleveland and Pittsburg Telegraph Company, from Cleveland to
Pittsburg, 150 miles, one wire; Morse's patent.
Cleveland and Zanesville Line, fiom Cleveland to Zanesville, 150
miles; one wire; Morse's patent.




124
Lake Erie Telegrapn Company, from Buffalo to Detroit, via Cleveland,
400 miles; one wire; Morse's instrument, built under O'Reilly's contract
with Morse, with branch from Cleveland to Pittsburg, 150 miles; one
wire.
Cincinnati and Sandusky City Line, about 200 miles; one wire; Morse's
patent.
Toledo to Terra Haute, via Forte Wayne, about 300 miles; one wire;
Morse's patent.
Chicago to Dayton, one wire; Morse's line.
Chicago to St. Louis, via Peoria, about 400 miles; one wire; Morse's
patent.
Milwaukie to Green Bay; 200 miles; one wire; Morse's patent.
Milwaukie to Galena, via Madison, about 250 miles; one wire; Morse's
patent.
Chicago to Janesville; one wire; Morse's patent.
Buffalo and Canada Junction Telegraph Company, from Buffalo to
Lewiston; one wire; connecting with a wire in Canada that runs to
Toronto, about 200 miles.
There are three companies, if not four, owning the line from Boston to
Halifax; from Portland to Calais, Maine, one company, using the Morse
instrument; from Calais to Halifax, the Morse instrument is used; the line
in each province is owned by separate companies, organized under
charters from their respective legislatures.
No. 7. The New York and Boston Morse line extends from New York
to Boston; to reach Halifax it connects at Boston with lines in No. 6.
The Northwestern Telegraph Company that extends in Wisconsin and
Northern Illinois from Chicago to Waukegon, Ill., to Kenoska, Wis.,
Ravine, Milwaukie, Port Washington, Shebbygon, Shebbygon Falls,
Greenbush, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Neenok, or Winnebago Rapids, to
Appleton and Green Bay; whole distance by the line, 267 miles; hence,
from  Milwaukie west to Waukosha, Palmyra, Whitewater, Jefferson,
Lake Mills, Madison, Dodgeville, Mineral Point, to Shullsburgh and
Galena, Illinois; and from Madison, the Capital of Wisconsin, to Sank
Prairie, Boraboo, and St. Winnebago; whole distance, 238 miles; from
Chicago west to Naperville, Aurora, Oswego, Balaria, Geneva, St. Charles,
Elgin, Dundee, Woodstock, iMnorengo, Belvidere, Rockford, Freeport,
and Galena; from Rockford north up Rock River to Rockton, Beloit, Wis.,
Janesville, to Whitewater, and there intersects. Also, cross line fromn
Rockford, Ill., down Rock River to Byron, Mount Morris, Oregon, Grand
Detour, to Dixon; 310 miles; making in all in this Company, 815 miles.
The above list will give an approximation of the number of the iMAorse
lines, obtained principally from E. Cornell, Esq., President N. York and
Erie Telegraph Company, and S. W. Hotchkiss, Esq.
The first American telegraphic line was established in May, 1844, be
tween Washington and Baltimore, over a length of 40 miles.
The line from Washington to Baltimore was then extended to Philadelphia
and New York, over a distance of 250 miles. It reached Boston in 1845,
and became the great line of the North, from which branched two others:
one, the length of 1000 miles, from Philadelphia to Harrisburg, Lancaster, Pittsburg, Ohio, Columbus, Cincinnati, Louisville (Kentucky), and




125
St. Louis (Missouri); the other, the length of 1300 miles, from New York
to Albany, Troy, Utica, Rochester, Buffalo, Erie, Cleveland (Ohio), Chicago (Illinois), and Milwaukie (Wisconsin).
A fourth line goes from Buffalo to Lockport, Queenstown, the Lakes
Ontario and Erie, the Cataracts of Niagara, Toronto, Kingston, AMontreal,
Quebec, Halifax, and the Atlantic Ocean, over an extent of 1395 miles.
Two lines South; one from Cleveland to New Orleans, by Cincinnati;
the other from Washington to New Orleans, by Fredericksburg, Charleston, Savannah, and Mobile. The first is 1200 miles long, the second 1700
miles. This line has been extended WVest to Independence, Missouri.
The entire length of the line from New York to New Orleans, via
Charleston, Savannah, and Mobile, is 1966 miles; and this distance was
not worked in one circuit, nor can it be with either of the existing systems
with the best mode of insulating in use. The only instance of direct commnunication was secured by div-iding the line into several circuits, probably five or six, and connecting those circuits through the agency
of an instrument terined a connector, the effect of which is to cause one
circuit to work the other through the entire series, thus producing a result
similar to working through the entire line in one circuit.  The connector
is an instrument first invented and applied by E. Cornell, Esq., of N. York,
on the N. York, Albany, and Buffalo line, at Auburn N. York, to work a
branch line from Auburn to Ithaca, for the purpose of taking news reports at Ithaca; at the same time they were being transmitted from N. York
to Buffalo on the main line; this was adopted in the year 1846; it was
found to work admirably, and he afterwards modified it so as to make it applicable to working both ways in a main line, or in other words, to make
it capable of working a number of series of circuits in a main line; the
instrument was adopted for Ibis purpose on the N. York and Erie, and
Erie and Michigan lines, in the year 1848, and has been in constant use
ever since; by it they having frequently worked direct from N. York to
ilswaukie, 1300 miles.  The instrument used on the New Orleans line,
%which was described in my Lectures on the Telegraph, was adopted by
MIr. Chas. Bulkley, the then superintendant of the line, who claims it as
his invention, made in 1850 or 1851.
The greatest distance that Mr. Cornell has known any lines to work in
one circuit, was from Boston to Montreal, via N. York, Buffalo and Toronto, a distance of about 1500 miles; this, however, was done when
the earth was frozen, and the lines thus insulated by the frost much better than man has yet contrived to insulate them without its aid.  There
are no lines working succesfully in one circuit more than 550 miles; lines
may be so insulated as to work in one circuit under favorable states of
the atmosphere from 8 to 1000 miles.
The House Printing Telegraph has only been in operation since 1846,
but-even in that short time has spread itself from N. York to St. Louis,
N. York to Boston, and N. York to Philadelphia, working to the entire
satisfaction of our business community, and wherever found, exciting the
admiration of the curious, being able to print in Roman capitals communications in almost every language.
This line consists of the Boston and New York Telegraph Company,
using the House Printing Telegrraph; about 609 miles of wire, two wires;
II';




126
with stations at Boston, Mass.; Providence, R. I.; Springfield, Mass.; Hartford, Conn.; New Haven, and New York.
A line is being constructed to connect with this Boston line, running
from  Springfield, Mass., to Albany, N. Y.; there to intersect the New
York and Buffalo line, using the same instruments, extending from New
York to Buffalo, a distance of 570 miles. One wire is now in operation,
connecting with Poughkeepsie, Troy, Albany, Utica, Syracuse, Lyons,
Rochester, Albion, Lockport, and Buffalo; and another wire, nearly completed the same distance. This line is to continue to St. Louis, MIo., connecting with Cleveland, Cincinnati, Louisville, and St. Louis, which will
be completed the entire distance in 1852; the whole length being 1500
miles.
The New Jersey Magnetic Telegraph Company, using the House instruments, and the first line of this kind ever put in operation, extends
from  Philadelphia to New York; one wire, 132 miles; and another now
being put up. For this information, I am indebted to the politeness of
William J. Philips, Esq., Telegraphic Engineer on the House line at Philadelphia.
Miaking the whole number of miles 2202; rate, 25 cents for the first ten
words from Philadelphia to New York.
The Bain Line, now a Morse Line, Mr. Henry J. Rodgers, General
Superintendant from  New  York to Washington, has lately constructed, at an expense of $10,000, spars 310 feet high, at the Palisades
and Fort Washington, ten miles above the City of New York, for the
purpose of sustaining their wires over the river, instead of the method
formerly employed, by passing the current through the water, by wires
laid across the North River. He considers this method, by means of suspension on spars, as being more permanent and durable. The price of
telegraphic despatches by this line is the same as the others. They have
offices in Boston, Providence, New  York, Philadelphia, Wilmington,
Baltimore, and Washington
List of the Bain Telegraph Linles in the United States.
Wires. Miles.
1. New York to Boston, via. Providence, 250 miles each,.  2    500
2. Boston to Portland,.....      1    100
3. Boston through New Hampshire to Burlington, Vermont, thence
to Ogdensburg, New York,....  1   350
4. Troy to Saratoga,...            1    36
5. New York to Buffalo, (513 miles each,)..     2   1026
Total,.           7   2012
List of the Morse Telegraph Lines in the United States.
Wires. Miles.
1. Washington to New Orleans, by way of Richmond, Va.,.   1   1716
2. Washington to New York, by way of Baltimore and Philadelphia,
each 260 miles,.....      7   1820
3. Harper's Ferry to Winchester, Va.,.... 1    32
4. Baltimore, by way of Pittsburg and Wheeling, to Cumberland, 1   324
5. Baltimore to Harrisburg, by way of York, Pa.,.. 1    72
6. York to Lancaster, by way of Columbia, Pa.,..   1    22
Carried up,.                        ~. 12  3986




127
Wires. Miles.
Brought up,......    12   3986
7. Philadelphia to Lewistown, Del.,... 1                   12
8. Philadelphia to Pittsburg, by way of Harrisburg,. 1    309
9. Philadelphia to Pottsville, by way of Reading,..    1      98
10. Reading to Harrisburg,..... 1       51
11. New York to Boston, about 250 miles, by way of Providence,
Rhode Island, and Springfield, Massachusetss,.. 3    750
12. New York to Buffalo, by way of Troy and Albany,.    3   1539
13. Syracuse to Oswego, -N. Y.,....       1     40
14. Boston to Portland, by way of Dover,... 2    200
15. Worcester to New Bedford, by way of Providence,.      1      97
16. Worcester to New London, by way of Norwich,.. 1       74
17. Portland to Calais, Me.,.....      1    350
18. Calais to Halifax via. St. Johns,.... 1    400
19. Troy to Montreal, Canada, by way of Rutland and Burlington,  1    278
20. Buffalo to Queenston, Canada, by way of Lockport,.     1      48
2l. Buffalo to Milwaukie, Wis., by way of Cleveland, Detroit, and
Chicago; second wire from Buffilo to Cleveland         2    800
22. Pittsburg to Cincinnati, O., by way of Columbus,.. 1    310
23. Columbia to New Orleans, by way of Tuscumbia and Natchez, 1    638
24. New Orleans to Balize, at the mouth of the Mississippi,. 1    90
25. Cincinnati to St. Louis, Mo., by way of Vincennes,.    1    410
26. Cincinnati, Ohio, to Maysville, Ky., by way of Ripley,. 1     60
27. St. Louis to Chicago, by way of Alton, Ill.,..      1    330
28. Alton to Galena, by way of Quincy,.... 1    380
29. St Louis to Independence, Mo.,..                           25
30. New York to New Orleans, by way of Charleston, Savannah,
and Mobile,...... 1   1966
31. New York to Dunkirk, via. Newburgh, Bighamton, and Ithaca,  1    440
32. New York and Erie Railroad Telegraph, for Railroad use,. 1    460
33. Cleveland to Cincinnati,....      2    250
34. Cincinnati to St. Louis, via. Indianapolis,... 1    400
35. Cleveland to Pittsburg,..      1    150
36. Cleveland to Zanesville,..... 1    150
37. Buffalo to Detroit, via. Cleveland,...      1    400
38. Cincinnati to Sandusky City,..... 1    218
39. Toledo to Terra Haute, via. Forte Wayne,..      1    300
40. Newark to Zanesville, Ohio,.... 1      40
41. Mansfield to Sandusky,.....      1      40
42. Columbus to Portsmouth, Ohio,...              1      90
43. Columbus to Lancaster, Ohio,....      1      25
44. Lancaster to Logansport,..... 1      15
45. Cincinnati to Dayton and Chicago, (wire in Ohio,).           100
46. Milwaukie to Green Bay,..                               1    200
47. Milwaukie to Galena, via. Madison,.... 1    250
48. Chicago to Janesville,...             1    -
49. Banesville to Marietta,..... 1      66
Total,..    62 15,835
WThole number of Morse line received; 70 wires, length,.   15,835 miles.
Whole number of House line received; number of wires, 6,     2,200   "
Whole number of Bain line received; number of wires, 6,,    2,012   "
Total number of miles in the United States,..         20,047
There are not over 2200 miles of House wire up.
There is an "Erie and Allegheny Telegraph Company," having a line
from Dunkirk, N. York, via Warren, Pa., thence to New Castle, Pa., and
thence to Pittsburg.




128
Consolidation of Telegraphs. —We learn f omn the Cincinnati papers, that
all the leading Telegraph lines in the West, and South, and Northwest
have been united in business interests.  The N. Orleans and Ohio line, extending from N. Orleans to Pittsburg; the People's line from N. Orleans
to Louisville; the two wires, Louisville, Cincinnati, and Pittsburg line,
and the Western line from Wheeling and Pittsburg to Baltimore and
Washington city, are all direct parties to the contract-securing these
arrangements.
The union brings the Morse and O'Reilly offices in Cincinnati and all
other cities on the lines named together. In Cincinnati the Morse lines are
removed to the O'Reilly office, which will hereafter be known as the
JV'ational Telegraph Office.
"From an anual Report of the "Magnetic Telegraph Company," extending from Washington to New York, just published, we glean the following
table of the number of messages sent, and the amount of money received
for tolls for each month of the year. The business, it will be seen, is
steadily on the increase:Messages.      Receipts.
July,      1851,        13,463       $4,991.62
AVgust,    ("          16,580        5,391.96
September,  "          16,744         4,979'35
October,    "          18,641         6,322'98
November,               15,969        5,798'50
December,   "          17,896         7,249'73
January,   1852,       23,962        11,352'97
February,    "         27,880        11,341'75
March,      "          27,934        11,918'63
April,,'           25,523        11,114'01
May,        "          24,933        10,949'75
June,       "          25,298        11,832'03
$253,857     $103,232'37
The first six months was before the consolidation with the Bain line; the
last six was after the consolidation, and includes the receipts of both lines.
The business of the several months fluctuates a little, though, by comparing the first six months with the last six, it will be seen that the use
of the line is increasing wonderfully. The number of messages sent in
the first six months, is 99,313, producing $34,733'14; and in the last six
the number was 154,514, producing $68,499'23. It is proper to state,
however, that, in January last, the "Magnetic Telegraph Company" became possessed of the wires of the Bain line, extending from Washington
to New York, by which the Company's facilities were increased, and its
business augmented beyond what it probably would have been without
such facilities. The increase of December over July, and of June over
January, and the very large business of October and March, the most active business months in the year, show the general and growing use of
this wonderful invention by the public generally, as well as by that enter



129
prising class of persons, the merchants, brokers, and bankers. The following table exhibits the annual receipts of this Company, which was the
first organized in the country, from its commencement to the present:From January 27, 1846, to July 1, 1846    $ 4,228'77
July 1, 1840, to July 1, 1847,      32,810'28
July 1, 1846, to July 1, 1848,      52,252'81
July 1, 1848, to July 1, 1849,      63,367'62
July 1, 1849, to July 1, 1850,      61,383'98
July 1, 1850, to July 1, 1851,      67,737'12
July 1, 1851, to July 1, 1852,     103,860'84
Total amount received up to July, 1852,   $385,641.42
The capital of the Company is'$370,000. It has six wires from Washington to Philadelphia, and seven from Philadelphia to New York. It
has offices at Washington, Baltimore, Havre de Grace, Port Deposit, Wilmington, Philadelphia, Trenton, New Hope, Princeton, New Brunswick,
Newark, Jersey City, and New York, and employs in its service, including messengers, outside laborers engaged in keeping the line in order,
clerks, operators, etc., about one hundred and twenty-five persons. The
distance from Washington to New York, by the line of the wires, is about
two hundred and seventy-five miles; requiring between nineteen hundred
and two thousand miles of wire. The cost for chemicals is considerable,
and the amount of stationery quite immense; the single item of envelopes
for the year reaching in number nearly one quarter of a million. This is
the pioneer line of magnetic telegraph in the world, and very large sums
have been expended in various experiments, the object all the time being
to make it as perfect as possible. It is now,.perhaps, all things considered, for its length, the best appointed and most reliable in the country,
and probably the most productive in the world. Within the last two or
three years, it has undergone thorough renovation, and while under its
present management, the public may rest assured it will not suffer deterioration."
The Law of Telegraph in the U. States,-s-In Alct Relating to the Commencement of.ctions, Sfc., Relative to Penalties on Telegraphic Operators, Sfc.
PENNSYLVANIA LOCAL STATE LAW.
SEC. 7. That from and after the passage of this act, it shall not be lawful
for any person connected with any line of telegraph within this Commonwealth, whether as superintendent, operator, or in any other capacity
whatever, to use, or cause to be used, or make known, or cause to be
made known, the contents of any despatch of whatsoever nature, which
may be sent or received over any line of telegraph in this Commonwealth, without the consent or direction of either the party sending or
receiving the same-and all despatches which may be filed at any office
in this Commonwealth, for transmission to any point, shall be so trans



130
mitted without being made public, or their purport in any manner divulged
at any intermediate point, on any pretence whatever, and in all respects
the same inviolable secresy, safe keeping, and conveyance, shall be maintained by the officers and agents employed upon the several telegraph lines
of this Commonwealth, in relation to all despatches which may be sent or
received, as is now enjoined by the laws of the United States in reference
to the ordinary mail service: Provided, That nothing in this act contained,
shall be so construed, as to prevent the publication at any point of any
despatch of a public nature, which may be sent by any person or persons with a view to general publicity.
SEC. S. That in case any person, superintendent, operator, or who may
be in any other capacity connected with any telegraph line in this Commonwealth, shall use, or cause to be used, or make known, or cause to be
made known, the contents of any despatch sent from or received at any
office in this Commonwealth, or in anywise unlawfully expose another's
business or secrets, or in anywise impair the value of any correspondence
sent or received, such person being duly convicted thereof, shall, for every
such offence, be subject to a fine of not less than one hundred dollars,
or imprisonment not exceeding six months, or both, according to the
circumstances and aggravation of the offence.
Approved April 14, 1851.
I received the following interesting account of the telegraph in Ohio,
showing the rapid progress which it is making in the West, for which
account I am indebted to the politeness of J. 1-I.'Wade, Esq., of the "Wade
Telegraph Office," Columbus, Ohio.
Miles.
Cleveland and Cincinnati Telegraph Company, with two lines on separate
routes, with an arm from Newark to Zanesville, and another from Mansfield
to Sandusky; length of line,.,...            640
Cincinnati and Sandusky Telegraph Company, line from Cincinnati to Sandusky,    218
Scioto Valley Telegraph Company, line from Columbus to Portsmouth,     90
Columbus and Lancaster Telegraph Company, line from Columbus to Lancaster, 25 miles, and an arm to Logansport, 15 miles,...     40
Pittsburg, Cincinnati, and Louisville Telegraph Company, from Pittsburg to
Louisville, two wires on same poles, 2S0 each, (in Ohio,).      560
Cincinnati and St. Louis Telegraph Company, from Cincinnati.to St. Louis,  50
Hlouse Printing Telegraph line, from Buffalo to Cincinnati,..     325
Erie and Michigan Telegraph Company, from Buffalo to Milwaukie, with two
wires as far as Cleveland; length of wire in Ohio,...     260
Lake Erie Telegraph Company, from Buffalo to Detroit, with branch to Pittsburg; length of wire in Ohio,......     286
Cleveland, Wheeling, and Zanesville Telegraph Company,..        225
Cleveland and Pittsburg Telegraph Company; length of wire in Ohio,     90
New Orleans and Ohio Telegraph Company, from Pittsburg to New Orleans;
length of wire in Ohio,.......     260
Ohio, Indiana, and Illinois Telegraph Company, from Cincinnati to Dayton
and Chicago; length in Ohio, about.....         100
Line from Zanesville to Marietta,......       66
Total length of wire in Ohio,.   3210




131
CANADA.
From 0. S. Wood, Esq., Montreal Telegraph Company, I have received
the list of the lines in Canada.
Miles.
The Montreal Telegraph Company's Line extends from Quebec to the Suspension Bridge at Niagara Falls; distance,...               155
British North American Electric Telegraph Association, from Quebec to New
Brunswick frontier; distance,...                             220
The Montreal and Troy Telegraph Company, from Montreal to New York State
line at Highgate; distance,.                                        47
The Bytown and Montreal Telegraph Company, from Bytown to Montreal;
distance,...                              115
The Western Telegraph Company, from Hamilton to Port Sarnia, at the foot of
Lake Huron; not now working; distance,...      143
-Niagara and Chippewa Line, from Niagara to Chippewa; distance,.          14
All the above lines have single wires.
Tn course of construction, a line from Brantford to Simcoe and Dover; distance,  33
Also, a line from Kingston to Hamilton, via. Prince Edwards Co.; distance,  256
Total length in Canada,...      9S3
ENGLAND.
The English telegraphs come next in extent to those of the U. States;
they were first established in 1845, and may be divided into two classes,
the railway and the commercial.  The railway telegraphs are used for the
purpose of sending communications relative to railway matters, while the
commercial are employed for the transmission of public and private messages at fixed rates of charges. They are mostly built on the railroads, and
in some instances a railroad company will construct a line, and give the use
of it to a company, and as an equivalent, the telegraph lends its aid to expedite the business of the railroad. The telegraph company between London and Liverpool receives one thousand pounds a year for doing the
business of the railroad company, and the railroad people afford them
all the facilities for repairing the line, even so far as sending an extra engine, without charge, when there is not a regular train going out soon;
and every man employed on the railroad is under instructions to report
immediately to the nearest telegraph office, anything he may find to be
out of order on the line.  In fact, a line of telegraph is almost considered
an indispensable part of the equipage of all well regulated roads in England. The instruments principally in use are those of Messrs. Cook
and Wheatsone, Jacob Brett, and Brett and Little. There is a line of
Bain's Electro-Chemical Telegraph from London to Manchester, and from
Manchester to Liverpool.  Also, a line of Bain's Electric Telegraph,
connecting Edinburgh and Glasgow, a distance of 46 miles: the whole
extent of telegraphic lines is estimated at 2225 miles. The principal ones
are as follows:
ENGLAND, SCOTLAND, AND IRELAND.
I extract from the Manual of Mr. Walker, telegraphic engineer, a list
of the lines of the Electric Telegraphs of England, for 1852.
Miles. Wires. Apparatus.
Edinburgh and Glasgow,..    47       5      8
Line of the Tunnel,                                  1      2       2
Carried over,.                           48~     7      10




132
Miles. Wires. Apparatus.
Brought over,...          48       7      10
Edinburgh anld the North Branch to Dundee,.     26       3       6
"c "6                "        Perth,.           6       3      0
Edinburgh and Granton,...      3       3       3
Line to Leith,....          1i      3       3
Line of Tunnel,....      1       2       2
North British,..  58                        5       8
Branch to Dalkeith,....      1+      2       2
4"  Haddington,..                    5       2       2
Line of the Tunnel,....      I       2 
York, New Castle, and Berwick.
New Castle to Berwick,...         654      5       7
York to Darlington,..                 45       7      15
Darlington to New Castle,..         384      8      14
Branch to Shields,....     11       3       2
4'   Sunderland,...           24      3       2
a4     Durham,....      24      2       1
("   ~Richmond,..                    9       2       1
Fatfield and South Shields,...     19       1       4
Branch to Stockton,                                       1            2
York and North Midland.
Normanton to York,...         24       0       5
York to Scarborough,...    42J       3       5
Branch to Harrowgate,...         18       3       2
Hull and Selby,....     36       5       5
Hull and Bridlington,..         33       3       4
Normanton to the junction at Milford,..      10      2       2
Manchester and Leeds,...         51       7      24
Preston and Wyre,....     20       3       4
Liverpool and Southport,..          134     3       3
East Lancashire,....     12       3       0
Midland Railway.
Birmingham and Gloucester,.         53       7       9."     "      Derby,...      64      7       6
"      "      Derby,..                   341      5       0
Derby and Lincoln,..                        481      3       4
9"      Rugby,...         244      7       7
9"      Rugby,...     24I      5       0
Leicester and Peterborough,..          4'3      0
9"        Peterborough,..          23       5      11
c"        Peterborough,.                   25+ 2    7       0
Derby and Leeds,....     73       7      25
Branch to Sheffield,...          5       3       2
Leeds and Bradford,.               ~..     11       6       5
"       Bradford,...          21      3       0
"       Bradford line of Tunnel,..      1I      2       2
Branch to Skipton,..                  155      3       5
London and North Western.
London to Birmingham,...      5       9       0
"       Birmingham,...         1074      7      10
cc      Birmingham line of Tunnel,..      1       3       2
C"      Birmingham Inclined Plane,.          14      6       6
East Junction to London,..2                              4
Birmingham and Manchester,..         80       7       7
Do.       do.      do.                               5       8      0
Junction to Ardwick,...          34      8       0
Manchester and Liverpool,...     314      6       5
Do.        do.   line of Tunnel,.           14      2      3
South Devon.
Branch to Torquay,...          4       3       2
Newmarket Railway,.                                  17       5       4
Carried up,.                                     1177   235    259




133
Miles. Wires. Apparatus.
Brought up,....   1177    235    259
Eastern Union,...         16       5      7
Line of the Tunnel,....     2       2      3
London to Southampton,...         74       4      4
Do.         do.....      6       6      2
Branch to Portsmouth,...         21       4      4
t"     Gosport,....     5       4       1
Southampton and Dorchester,..         61      3      7
Branch to Poole,....     2       3      2
Eastern Counties.
London to Brandon,...         88       7     40
t"      Stratford,....    331      2      4
Line to Brick Lane,...                  2       3
Branch to Enfield,....     3+      2       2
9"     Hertford,...          7       3      3
Cambridge and St. Ives,...    14       3       5
Ely and Peterborough,...          30      5       7
March and Wisbeach,...      9      3       2
London and Colchester,...         51+      5      13
Forestgate and Stratford,...      1+     1       2
Maldon and Braintree,...         12       3      3
Stratford and Junction of the Thames,..      21     3       2
North Woolwich,...          2       3       2
Norfolk Railway.
Brandon to Norwich,...    37-    7        19
Do.       do....         10    --        7
Norwich and Yarmouth,...    20        9       0
Branch to Lowestoft,...          12      5       0
i"     Dereham,...    12        3      2
Dereham and Fakenham,...          12+     2       2
North Staffordshire.
Stoke to Norton Bridge,...          10q     3       3
Branch to Colwich,....     18      2       2
Stoke to Burton,...          291     3       5
cc.      depot,.                                2.  2  2
North Staffordshire.
Stoke to Crewe,....    14       3       4
Harecastle Line of the Tunnel,.      ~             1      2       2
Branch to Macclesfield,...    194      3       4
Valley of Churnet,...         27       2       0
South Staffordshire,....     94      2       3
Do.      do,...          2       3       1
Northampton and Peterborough,,.    47       3      10
Northampton prolongated to Wolverton,.         103     4       2
London and Croydon,...      8      3       4
Great Western,....          19      4       2
Line of the Streets of London,...        variable,    10
Manchester and Sheffield,..               2      3       3
Manchester Line of the Tunnel of Woodhead,.      3+     3       2
Ambergate, Matlock, and Buxton,..         113     2       3
London and Blackwall,                                 3,4    0       0
Line of Caldon Low Quarry,..          34     1       4
Mines of the coal of Moira,...       3     2       2
Maryport and Whitehaven..                  4       4
Line of the Company of Iron Mines of Butterley,.    24     1       2
South Eastern.
London to Dover,....    88       0      29
4"      Rochester,...         31       4      18
t"      Bricklayer's Arms,...     4       2      2
Carried over,                                   2093j   396    530
12




134
Miles. Wires. Apparatus.
Brought over,...     20931  396   530
Tunbridge to Tunbridge Wells,..        5     3     6
c"   /Hastings Road,..         1      2     2
c"    Laboratory,...        0      1     2
Paddock Wood to Maidstone,...    10     3     5
Ashford to Ramsgate,...           30     3     5
Minster to Deal,....    9      3     6
Ramsgate to Margate,...        4     3     2
Total,..     21521  414   558
Their mode of construction in England is very expensive, amounting in
some cases to $600 per mile. Posts of fir are ranged at convenient distances
along the side of the principal railways; each post is furnished with an insulator of earthenware, and also capped with a wooden roof having dripping
eaves to throw the water from the wires. The latter are made of galvanized iron, two of which are needed on a line working with Cook and
Wheatstone's instruments.
The press of England use the telegraph but little, and pay heavily
for what they get by it. The London Times pays one thousand pounds
per annum for a certain amount daily, and in addition, they pay for
all extra communications of importance.  The charge for transmission of communications by the Electric relegraph Company's telegraphs
in England, is at the rate of one penny per mile for the first fifty miles,
and one farthing per mile for any distance beyond one hundred miles.
The South Eastern Railway Company's charges for telegraphic communications are even much higher than those of the former.  Thus, twenty
words transmitted eighty-eight miles is charged the large sum of $2'42.
These facts show that telegraph companies, as well as the public at large,
would derive much greater advantages from their construction on a more
economical plan, like that of the American system. In many parts of the
United States where railways do not exist, the wires are stretched across the
prairies without any protection whatever, except the general good will
of the people at large. The cheap construction of these lines renders them
liable to frequent disorder, and consequently needing continual repair, so
that perhaps it might have been more economical to have expended more
in the commencement. Its advantages are, however, abundantly proved,
as the poorest person in the U. States or Canada, is enabled by the low rate
of charges to use any of the telegraphs for domestic purposes. A message
of twenty words can be sent a distance of 500 miles in the United States
for $1, while in England the same would cost from $7 to $8.
Sub-Mlarine Telegraph, 1852.-A London letter under date of June 4th,
says: The chief event of the week has been the laying down of the submarine telegraph between the coasts of England and Ireland, a distance
of 64 miles. On the 2d instant, at 4 o'clock in the morning, the operation commenced by the departure of a steamer from Holyhead, and
at half past eight in the evening a gun was fired at Dublin by means of
the electric wire. The process has been an inexpensive one, and will
probably prove remunerative, and lead to the establishment of many other
lines. Among these, one of the first will be from the port of Harwich,
on the east coast of England, to Holland, a concession for that purpose
having lately been granted by the Dutch Government.
A similar communication with Belgium, between Dover land Ostend,




135
is also contemplated.  These enterprises will all be carried out by separate interests. The company that first established the practicability of
such a method of ocean communication, by laying down the wire between England and France, might have secured all the advantages of the
extension of the principle, but their Board of Directors have been incessantly quarrelling among themselves, and have consequently brought
their own shares to a discount. In June, 1852, the telegraph between
Dover and Ostend was completed; it is seventy English miles long.
Telegraph Extensions, June 27.-Private letters received per Atlantic
state that F. N. Gisborne, Esq., the agent of the Newfoundland Electric
Telegraph Company, has contracted in England for the land wire, through
Newfoundland, upon very favorable terms. Mr. Gishorne has also entered into contracts for the sub-marine line, connecting Newfoundland
with Nova Scotia, upon terms much less than estimated. Messrs. Newall
& Co. of London, the contractors for the submarine, have also entered
into contract to lay down a line from the Hague to Harwich, a distance
of 135 miles, and are now negotiating with the French Government for a
line from France to Algiers; a stretch of 400.
IRELAND.
An Irish Sub-marine Line Telegraph, between Fort Patrick and
Donoughadee, was to be opened on the 10th of June.
A line of telegraph has been opened between Dublin and Galway,
and was in operation in June, 1852.
PRUSSIA.
The Prussian Telegraph system is characterized as simple, substantial, effective and economical.  A  Royal Commission was appointed in 1844, to ascertain the best method of constructing lines;
they, after experiment, determined on that of copper wire enclosed in
gutta percha, and buried two feet beneath the surface; they are generally
made to follow the track of railways, and in passing over bridges or
aqueducts, are enclosed in iron piping, or when through rivers in chain pipes.
They use but one wire, which terminates in an earth battery, consisting
of a zinc plate 6 feet long, 21- feet wide, and ~-th of an inch in thickness.
The instruments used are those of Morse, Siemens, Halske, and Kramer,
together with Daniel's battery. In the principal offices, a printing and a colloquial instrument are employed, but each in turn is worked by the one wire
only, notice being given that one or the other is to be used, according to
circumstances. Morse's is the printing telegraph used, and differs but
very little from that used in the U. States. Those of Siemens and Kramer
are both colloquial telegraphs, but Siemens' is chiefly used. The whole
cost, as determined from detailed estimates, is less than $200 per English
mile. Besides the government lines of telegraph, most of the railway
companies in Prussia have also their own telegraphs, which are constructed according to the system in this country by one wire suspended on
poles along the railways. The average cost of this form of telegraph is




136
about $100 per mile; their whole length is estimated at 1493 miles, having
their central point at Berlin, from whence they radiate as follows:
Instruments used.      Stations and points passed through.   Distance
in miles.
Siemens and Halske's Patent, From Berlin to Frankfort on the Main, established
in February, 1849,..          350
Kramer's Bell Telegraph,    From Berlin through Cologne to Achen, established in June, 1849,.362
Stations are Potsdam, Magdeburgh, Ochsertleben,
Brunswick, Hanover, Minder, Haurm, Dusseldorf, Deutz, Cologne.
Seimens and Halske's Patent, From Dusseldorf to Elberfeld,..         16
Morse's Apparatus,       From Berlin through Minder to Rolu,          81
Siemens and Halske's,      "   "   to Hamburgh,.. 142
"6      cc"            "   "      Stettin,....        62
"       "              "   "   through to Oderburgh to Breslau,. 280
"       "              "  Halle to Leipzic,                        17
"    "                 " Leipzic to Berlin,.                    115
" "                    "  Leipzic to Frankfort on the Main,..   204
Siemens' Telegraph,        "  Berlin to Gross Bercen
46"     "           A contemplated one from Berlin to Konigsberg to Dantzic.
Morse Instrument,       From Hanmburgh to Cuxhaven,.                 80
The Prussian method of burying the wires beneath the surface, protects
them from destruction by malice, and makes them less liable to injury by
lightning.
AUSTRIA.
The Austrian Telegraphs diverge from Vienna, in the following manner:
1, From Vienna through Olmutz to Prague, 237 miles.
2,   "       "       "    Bumn          "      211   "
3,   "       "  to Pressburgh,                   35
4,   "       "  through Prevau to Oberberg, 140
5,   "       "        c"  Bruck, Cilli, Layback to Trinte, 284   "
6,   "       "       "    Lintz to Salzburg,   156   "
7,   "   Prague to the boundary of Saxony, to connect with the
line from Dresden, is nearly complete as far as the boundary of Bohemia,
on which Storer's apparatus will be used; on the other a modification
of Morse's by Robinson, printing about 600 words per hour; also, a
modification of Bain's needle telegraph, by Ekling, of Vienna, containing
an arrangement of 45 needles, averaging about 190 words of six letters
each per hour. The Austrians have adopted this system of correspondence, mostly since 1847; their network of telegraphs extends over a space
of more than 1053 miles, having 106 stations, which will be increased
to 200 stations, if the present projected lines are constructed.  The line
from Lintz to Salzburg, has a connexion with the Bavarian one from
Munich to the latter place, and makes use of Stochriss' instrument.  A
line between Venice and Milan with its branches is already commenced.
SAXONY AND BAVARIA.
Saxony and Bavaria have government lines which connect with the
Prussian and Austrian lines, and establish a communication with Berlin,
Dresden, Munich, and Vienna.  Nearly all the railroad companies have




137
private lines for their own use, and preparations are now making, which
in no distant future will include every town of importance throughout
Germany in this network of communication.
Those of Saxony extend over 265 miles, the principal of which are
annexed: From Leipzig to Hoff, 94 miles; from Leipzig to Dresden,
62 miles; Dresden to Konigstien, 15 miles; Dresden to the boundary
of Bohemia; Dresden to Hoff, 94 miles. Stochriss' needle instrument
is principally used in this country; likewise, in Bavaria his bell apparatus.
The extent of lines in the latter country is about 455 miles.  From
Munich to Salzburg, 74 miles, connecting with the Austrian lines of
Ling and Vienna; from Munich through Augsburgh to Hoff, 226 miles,
connecting with the line to Dresden in Saxony; from  Munich to Augsburg, 31 miles; one under construction from Augsburg, through Nuremburgh and Banmburgh to Hoff; from Barnburgh to Wurzburg, Aschappenburg, and Frankfort, 125 miles under construction.
TUSCANY.
The lines in Tuscany number 120 Italian miles, commenced in 1847,
under the direction of Matteucci; they also follow the railroad.  From
Florence to Livourne; from Empoli to Sienne; from Pisa to Lucca, and
from Florence to Patro; which makes in all, 120 Italian miles, or nearly
60 leagues. The total length of the wires is 121 leagues, weighing
70,000 pounds; 2488 posts.
The expense of placing the wire, which cost at first 400 pounds per
mile, is reduced to 30 or 40 francs at present, that the wires are placed
by the guardians of the telegraph.  The telegraphic apparatus is furnished in part by M. Brequet, and part by the constructor of the University, M/I. Pierncci; a complete apparatus costs 600 livres.
The following is a table of necessary expense for the establishment of
the Tuscan lines:Livres.  Sous.
Iron Wire,...        23,348    8
Posts of fir tree,....        21,426   13 4
Tenders,                                     3,347
Porcelain shield,....         2,627   13
Wooden box,...      1,772   13 4
Furniture, and supplies of the office,..  8,183   18 8
Laying of copper wire, varnish,..         5,314   13 4
Machines and piles,...        26,043   17
Timber, cost of posts, administration, studies, and
superintendance of the work,..       3,443    3 4
Total,.     95,507   10
GERMANY.
The telegraph lines of Germany have chiefly been established within the
last three years. Gauss and Weber at Gottingen, and Steinhiel at Munich,
had short lines of telegraph, in 1834 and 1837; but the railroad companies were the first to make a proper appreciation of them, and establish
lines for their own benefit. The first great line along the railway from
Mentz to Frankfort, was erected by Fardly, a mechanician of Manheim,
with Wheatstone's index apparatus. It was this line that aroused the
attention of the Prussian Government, and caused the appointment of a
committee to experiment on the matter.




138
No. 781 of the London /Mining Journal for 1850, states that 2000 miles
of telegraph are already open in Germany, and that 1000 more will be
added in 1851; it works now from Cracow to Trieste, a distance of 700
miles, and a general union of the Austrian, Prussian, Saxon, and Bavarian
lines was soon expected, with a tariff of charges nearly as low as that of
the United States.
FRANCE.
The French are inferior in telegraphic enterprise to most of the other
European countries.  In that country the telegraph is under the control.
of government officers, and all the government business is done by signals,
understood by those only who are in the pay of the government; the
tariff is too high, and but little use is made of it, as the existing government does not wish it brought into general use: this is much unlike the republicanism of the U. States. The principal instruments in use are those of
Br quet and Foy, which prints from 10 to 12 signs per minute; this is used
along the railroad from Paris to Rouen. Wheatstone's needle telegraph
and also the instruments of Dujardin and Gardiner are made use of
That of Brett is employed on the connecting line of England and France,
between Dover and Calais, and Bain's Chemical Telegraph has more
lately been introduced.  The lines mostly originate in Paris, from which
they stretch northward to Amiens, Arras, Valenciennes, Donae, Lille,
Dunkirk, Calais, and Boulogne. South, they extend to Orleans, Louis,
Chevres, Angliers, Blois, Bourges, and Chateauroux; East, to Chalons,
on the main; West, to Versailles, Rouen, Havre, and( Dieppe: the whole
extent being from 400 to 600 miles. Another line is about to be, or is
opened from- Paris to Lyons. In last April, the government published
the establishment of several offices on each line which could be used for
private correspondence; there were six of these points on the northern
line, the same number on the southern, two on the western, and one on
the eastern. The committee appointed for the purpose, recommended a
general distribution of them on all the lines.  The government have
adopted the following tariff of charges, for a despatch of twentywors1s,
including the names of the sender: —
From Paris to Arras,   4 f. 80 c. From Paris to Angers,   5 f. 88 c.
" Valenciennes, 5  64     "   Bourges,   7  60
Lille,      6  36         "   Nevers,     5  88
"(   Calais,     6  36          "   Chateauroux, 6  72
Dunkirk,    7  56        "   C halons,   6  24
t"   Orleans,     7  32         "   Rouen,    5  70
r"   Tours,       4  56         "   Havre,      5  76
To'estimate the expense between each of these places, it is only necessary to find the difference of that between them  and Paris respectively.
For despatches of more than twenty words, a fourth is to be added for
every ten words, so that this tariff will be double for sixty words.
I have translated the follqwing list of the lines of France, from the
"Traite de Telegraphic Electrique,"' by Moigno, second edition, 1852.
1st, Line of the North, from Paris to Valenciennes, by Amiens, Arras,
Douae, Lille, with a branch to Dunkirk, Calais, and Boulogne, 90 leagues.
2d, Line of the South, from Paris to Chateauroux, by Orleans, Blois,
Tours, Bourges, with a continuation to Bordeaux one way, and another
to Nantes.




139
3d, The line of the East, from Paris to Chalons sur M\arne, prolonged
to Strasburg, by Vetoy, Nancy, &c.
4th, The line from Paris to Havre, by Rouen and Dieppe.
5th, The line of Montereau to Troyes.
6th, The line of Metz to Nancy, &c.
The entire length of the finished lines form three hundred leagues,
(about 750 English miles,) and according to Moigno, they have committed the irreparable fault of suppressing the old telegraphs.
HOLLAND.
The instrument used in Holland is a modification of Morse's by Mr.
Wm. Robinson; this gentleman is an American; he has obtained the
privilege of erecting and managing lines of magnetic telegraph, in the
United Kingdoms of Norway and Sweden for fifty years. A company of
heavy capitalists of this city and Stockholm, have commenced in the
work, which is to begin immediately. A similar privilege is expected
from the Government of Denmark. Most of the Belgian and Holland
Railroad Companies have constructed telegraphs; there is one now in
opiration from Amsterdam to Rotterdamn, and the HIolland Government
has authorized the construction of one from Amsterdam to the Helder,
and one from Rotterdam to Vleissingin.
ITALY.
Considerable progress has been made in the construction of lines
throughout the Italian States. By virtue of an ordinance of the Minister
of Public Works, the telegraphs which are to connect Rome on one side
with Cevita Vecchia and the sea, and on the other side with the Austrian
boundary at Ferrara, will be established at an early day.
SPAIN.
In Spain, the line from Aranjuez to Madrid is complete, and others are
being laid down to Seville, Cadiz, Valenten, Barcelona, and the frontier
of France. Before long there will be a general telegraphic communication from one extremity of Europe to the other, and when the connexion between Dover and Calais shall have been completed, the people of London
will be able to communicate with those of nearly every capital on the
continent, extending over a space of nearly 6000 miles.
RUSSIA.
A Prussian engineer has gone to St. Petersburg, in order to establish
electro-magnetic telegraphs throughout the whole Russian monarchy.
MEXICO.
A contract has been entered into by the Mexican Government, with
Win. George Stewart, Esq., the Mexican Consul at New York, and Senor
Juan de la Grariga, of Mexico, to construct a line from Vera Cruz to the
City of Mexico, a distance of three hundred miles; one hundred and
twenty of which, as far as El Oge de Argua, was to have been completed
on the 1st of May, 1851. Another line will soon be built between Acapulco and the City of Mexico.  When both are completed, there will be
a magnetic communication between the Atlantic and Pacific.
A letter from Mexico informs us of the progress of the magnetic tele



140
graph in that country. It appears that the party who went from the U.
States to that country for the purpose of putting up a line of telegraph
from the City of Mexico to Vera Cruz, have finished it from the former
city to Napolucan, a distance of about I150 miles, and half way to Vera
Cruz. The other half will be finished in two and a half months. The
line already up is doing a very fair business; the receipts averaging $35
per day, and the expenses about $15. These receipts will be largely
increased when the line is finished to Vera Cruz, as the largest portion
of the business transactions of the country is between that City and the
City of Mexico, including Puebla and Orizaba. Another line is in contemplation from the City of Mexico to Acapulco, on the Pacific, 300 miles
further, which will connect the Atlantic and Pacific. This will be a
highly important connexion, considering our California possessions on the
Pacific.
CUBA.
The Governor General has ordered the publication of the concessions
made to companies for the establishment of electric telegraphs through all
points, and to the principal cities of Cuba. The lines will be established
from Villanueva to Union, crossing several small towns in their way; from
Union to Matanzas; from Buerba to Macagua; from Tinguaro to Jucaro;
from Navagas to Isabel; from San Felipe to Batabano, and from Rincon
to Guanajay, by San Antonio. The companies will be obliged to commence the works six months after the date of the concession, and to
establish them with the greatest possible activity.
The Cubaneras have discovered the benefits the magnetic telegraph
confers by facilitating business and transmitting communications from
one point to another. They are, therefore, setting about establishing
telegraph lines throughout the Island. Two companies have been formed
for this purpose. One of these companies, with a capital of $20,000,
propose a line from Havana to Cienfuegos, passing through Isabel, Trinidad, and Manzanillo, to Cuba. From this point it will be extended to
Bayams, and thence to Guanagos and Pinar del Rio, ending at Sail Juan
and Martenez. The second line, which also starts from Havana, will
communicate with Cardenas, Matanzas, Siena, Morena, Sagua la Grand,
San Juan de los Remedios, Neuvitas, M/Ioron, and Halguin, and will end
at Cuba, having three branches to Puerto Principe, Sancto Spiritus, and
Villa Clara. The same company propose a line from Havana to Hariel,
Cubanas, and Bahia Honda; the capital of this company is $300,000.
These lines, when completed, will connect the capital with every considerable town on the Island.
VALPARAISO.
The telegraph between Valparaiso and Santiago, is progressing rapidly.
Messages have already been sent over one-third of the line, (from Casa
Blanca to this city.) From present appearances, the line will be through
in less than forty days, as the poles are already up more than three-quarters
of the distance.
INDIA.
This all infusing enterprise has aroused the lethargic inhabitants of the
tropical climate. An electric telegraph has been erected in India, and is
now in successful operation: the telegraph will soon belt both continents.




INDEX.
PAGE.                                    PAGE.
A.                     Barlow and Foster's Telegraph,.    29
Abbe Moigno, on Bain's Chem. Tele.,  25 Bain Lines, Number in United States, 126
Academy of Industry, Report of.  38 Barlow's Project,.          30
Academy Royal of Bogenhausen,        75 Backhoffner on Iron Wire,..  31
Academy of Sciences, French, Meeting of 48 Bache, A. D...      45
Admiralty, English, plans submitted to   2 Betancourt's Line of Telegraph,      5
Alphabet, Steinheil's Telegraphic    74 Beth-heccerem,...   1
Morse's         ".       55 Bell's Evidence in House Case,.       7
"    Gauss & Weber's".  42 Belgium, Extension of Telegraph to   105
Sturgeon's      ".       92 Berlin, Pruckner of                   17
"    Wheatstone & Cookl's.  58 Birmingham and Manchester Railroad, 47
Alexander's Electric Telegraph,.    84 Blatter Morgan,...  62
American Patent, Wheatstone & Cook, 62 Boston, Letter from.          96
Amontons, of Paris,..       2 Bogenhausen,.                  75
Ampere's Universal Terms,..  27 Bonn, Meeting of Naturalists,.        38
Ampere's Telegraph,.             37 Bockman, Professor..   5
Ampere,                               7 British Association,. 34
Amyot's Telegraph,..      88 Brett and Little's Telegrapl,.  67
Annals of Electricity,..  92 Brett's Telegraph, Jacob..        ib'
Antinori's Experiments,              33 Brown and Mapple's Telegraph,         108
Apparatus, Steinheil's..      1 Bulletin de la Societe pour la Industrie
Arago's Temporary Magnet,.       29    Nationale,                          26
Armstrong's Hydro-Electric Machine,    7                   C.
Armature, intensity,... 35
Arthur Young, voyage of              C4 Cable of Wire,                        105
Artisan, London                      64 Carmichael and Brett,.. 107
Arts, Edinburgh Society.  4
Arts, Edinburgh Society      C.81   (avallso's Experiments,..       5
Astronomical Observatory             39 Carlisle, Discovery of..   11
Attaching Glass Caps,..      56 Callen, Professor of Mavnooth College, 10
Austria, Telegraph in.         136  Caen, Professor Masson, of..  88
Avery, Thomas C., Esq.,              49 Capitals, Roman                       103
Cape Grienez,                       105
B.                     Cabinet of Natural Philosophy at GotBattery, Soemmering's..      14   tingen,... 69
i"    R. Smith Coke's.          17 Chappe's Telegraph,..       2
"     Sturgeon's Improvements,      9 Chateau    "...   3
Cruikshanks'.          46 Channing, Dr. W. F., of Boston,       35
"    used by Morse, Grove's        56 Chemical Telegraph,.23
"  Wheatstone & Cook,  65 Chester, Ch. T., of New York, in Silli"  Alexander,.       84   man's Journal,...  56
tr"       "  Bain,..  91 Chilton, William, of New York,.       45
"  House,.       97 Chromate of Lead, Colored by.   7
"     Constant, Daniells'.   8 Cincinnati Observatory,..      ib.
"    Defects,.      ib. Circuit in the Air,...  46
"    Grove's..   9 Circuit, Local, of Morse,.      54
("        "    Callen's.      10 Class of Salts used by Morse,.  22
Baumgartner on the Velocity of the       Clark, William, of London,.      ib.
Electric Current,...   13 Comptes Rendus,...  13
Basse's Experiments on the Weser,    14 Cox, J. R., Prof., Telegraph,          16
Bain's Electro-Chemical Telegraph,    19 Communication on the Electric Tele"   Battery,...  21   graph,...      25
Bain & Smith's Telegraph,.      23 Congress, Exhibition before..  ib.
Bain's Telegraph in England,.  26 Committee of Science and Art, Report of ib.
Bache, Professor, Idea,..  29 Congress, Appropriation of.      49




44
PAGE.                                     PAGE.
Cook's, W. F., Telegraph,.       58-61  Electro-Magnetic Telegraphs,.  37
Company, Electric Telegraph,.       65      "       " Needle, " Ampere,        ib.
Connecting Wires,..          74      "       "    "   " Barlow,.  ib.
Communication, Telegraphic.       82    "'              "   " Saint Amand, ib.
Connector of E. Cornell,. 125       "          "      " Fechner,.  38
Consolidation of Telegraphs,.     128      "'    "   " Schelling,      ib.
Cresswell, Justice Opinion of.  86       "       "' Gauss &Weber,39
Cuba, Telegraph in..     140      "                 " Taquin & EtCurtis' Indicating Telegraph,. 100                               tinghauser, 42
v;  so    " "Morse,.  ib.
D.                         c;      "    "      Wheatstone &
Daniell's Battery,..        S                             Cook,      58
Davv, Professor,...  27       "       "         " Steinheil's
Davy's, Edward, Telegraph,.      88                              Printing,  69
Davy's Needle and Lamp Telegraph,   S7                          " Printing of Vail,82
De Luc, experiments, across the Lake of       "       "         " Aleander's,   84
Geneva,.4.."                           " Davy's Needle, 87
De Haer, Vorzleman, Telegraph,        17..       " Masson's,      88
Distance workedl in one Circuit,.   125      "       "         " Ayot's,        ib.
Don Antonio's Telegraph,..    5      "       "         ".Davy, Edward, ib.
Dugardin, M., on the use of Magneto-          "       "         " Bain's Printing, 91
Electricity,..       36     "            "         "Sturgeon's,    92
Dyer, Harrison Gray, Telegraph,         6     "       "             r Brett's,. 105
England, Telegraph in..     131
~E:.                   Experimental Researches of Faraday,  ib.
Electricity, Peculiar Properties of.    3 
Electric Telegraph, Definition of     ib. Faraday on Supply of Electricity,.    8
Electricity, its Transmission,.  ib.  i,          Laws        ".      11
Electric Telegraph of Strada,.         4 Faraday on Magneto-Electricity,.    32
"t ccCLesage,          *ib. Fechner's Telegraph,.                 38
"   "            Lomond,.            5 First Line of Telegraph in U. States,  124
"  Reusser,   *  lb. Fizeau and Gounelle,..   13
"  Salva,         lb. Forbes, Professor...  33
is t    d       Don Antonio,    lb. Foster and Barlow's Improvements,   108
"s    "i         Line by Betancourt ib. Franklin's Experiments,.        4
o"    "i         Francis Ronalds,   6 French Semaphore,..1
icc    A        Johnson's Improve-   Franklin Institute, Report of.  46
ments,. 109 France, Telegraph to..     105,' c"   HT. G. Dyer,        6 France, Telegraph in. 138,, "             Haighton, ~        7
"c   "(          Indicating,      110                     G.
Electron,    -..                       11 Galvani, Prof., Discovery,              7
Electrolyze,..             ib. Galvanic Pile of Volta,..  ib.
Electrode,..                       ib. Galvanism, its Application,.   14
Electrolyte,..             ib. Galvanic Telegraph-see Electro-CheElectromotive Force,.   12    mical.
Electrical Currents, their Velocity,  13 Gauss and Weber,..      39
Electro-Chemical Telegraph of Scemmer-    Gazette of Madrid,..       5
ing,   14 German Alphabet,..      ib.
Cox,          16 Germany, Telegraph Lines of.  137
"4 "c  6   Ra. Smith,      17 General Pasley,.. ~             2',     "       "   Bain,       -  19 Gray's Experiments,                       3
4"     "       "   Miorse,.       21 Greek Word for Telegraph,.        1
"s   "s        "   Bain & Smith, 23 Great Western Railway,..   61
Electro-Magnetisin,               ~.   29 Grier, Judge, Concurrence in Opinion
44     "    Results of (Ersted,   ib.   with Judge Kane, (Appendix,)          10,,              "     Ampere,   ib. Grove's Battery,..           9
"  "     "     Arago,      lb. Grove Battery employed by House,.   97,,,' "      Henry,    ib.', "        "          Schweigger, 28                    H.', 96  "         "     Sturgeon,  29 Hall's Improved Posts,..      110.
"      "         "     Moll,.  31 Hare, Professor...  36




45
PAGE.                                     PAGE.
Hatcher's Improvements,              108 Mitchell, Professor, of Cincinnati,     13
Haighton Telegraph,..    7 Miles of Lines,...      21
Henry, Professor                      31 Morse's Electro-Chernical Telegraph,   ib.
Henry, Professor, on Local Circuit,    49 Moigno, Abbe.                 25
House Printing Telegraph, No. of lines, 125 Moll, Professor, of Utrecht,.       31
*'            ".   No. of miles, 104 Morse's Electro-Magnetic Telegraph,   42
"    "        " Form of Magnet, 100 Morse Telegraphic Lines in U. States, 12(6.c..       " Printing Machine, 98                      N.
"4 i;       "   Form of Posts,    97
* I "(  "L Form of Wire,   ib. Nicholson and Carlisle's Experiments,  11
Hon. F. O. J. Smith,                  48 Nott's Improvement,                    108
Hon. Levi Woodbury,.                  3 No. of Telegraphic Companies in U. S. 123
Hooke, Dr..                      1        Miles of Telegraph in U. States, 127
Holland, Telegraph in.        139'                          England, 131
House Printing Telegraph,.       96                              Canada,  ib.
nHumboldt, Authority,..        5 Messages sent by one Company, 128
Hyde Park Experiments by Bain,.    92           Miles Telh in Ireland,         13.... "       "    Prussia,.         iff.
~.                           " "    "    Austria,. 136
Insulation by Morse in his first Lines,  46              ". Saxony & Bavaria, il.
Indicator in Steinheil's Telegraph,.   69'          "    Tuscany,          137
" "      T sermany,.    13
Indicating Telegraph, Curtis'.    110            C          Germany,.  ic.
Insulating Metallic Wires,..   lb.  "       "    "    France,
Insulation, Remarks upon.     125                       Holland,.  ib.
of Wires, by Siemens,. 116  "         "    "    Italy,.      it).
I    Spain,.
b" byBarlow& Foster  108         "        "    Spain,..  i.
" for Submarine Tel'h, 106                "    Russia,.        i).
cc'" "for House Line,     97       "         "      exico,.  i).
Ic L(   ((    CubaM,        14.
Remarks upon, by Steinheil, 74           "    "    Cuba,.      14
India, Telegraph in... 140.  i...
Ireland, Telegraph in..      135.      it.
0.
J  Crsted's Law,...      27
Jacobi on the Velocity of the Electric        "    Discovery,..  37
Current,.                  13 Ohm's Law,.          12
Jackson, Dr. C. T., on the Telegraph,  42  Outline of Trial, (Appendix,).       2
Johnson, C. F., Improvement in Tele'h, 109 
P.
K1~.                   Page, Dr., of Washington,..  35
Kane's, Judge, Decision, (Appendix,)   10 Philosophical Transactions for 168,      1
Pixii, of Paris,...  33
L.                      Printing Telegraph of Bain,.      91
La Place's Suggestion,..  37 Posts, Improved, for Telegraph,. 110
Law of Telegraph in Pennsylvania,    129 Polygrammatic Telegraph,.              2
Lemounier, Nollet, of Paris,.    3 Printing Telegraph of House,.         96
Lesage, of France,..        4     "                 Brett,           107
Leuz's Explanation,..  36      "         "       Vail,            83
List of Telegraph Companies,.     123 Prussia, Telegraph in.. 135
Lines in the United States,.. 127    "    Method of Insulation,            it).
Lines of Telegraph in Ohio,.      130    "    Form of Battery,..  it)
(         " " in Canada,.. 131.."   England,                     ib.                    R.
cc"       "   Scotland & Ireland,  ib. Report on Telegraphs for United States,  3
Lomond's Telegraph,..    4 Reusser, of Geneva,..        5
Reid's Improvements,.   108
~M.                    Recardo's, John Lewis, Improvements, 109
Matteucci's Experiments,..   ib. Report of Magnetic Telegraph Com'y, 128
Magnetism, Electro..       27 Receipts for one year of E. M. Tel.Co.,  ib.
Masson's Magneto-Electric Telegraph,  88 Ritchie's, Dr., Telegraph,..   38
Mapple and Brown's Improvements,   108 Rogers' Modification of the Bain TeleMagneto-Electricity,        ~.        31    graph, (Appendix,)..    1
Mexico, Telegraph in.. 139 Russian Government,. ~                3




46
PAGE.                                     PArGE.
S.                     Telegraphic lines of France,. 138
it   " t    Holland,             139
Salva's, NI. D., Telegraph,.        5                     Italy,             i.
Schweigger's Proposal,..   16, i, c    Spain,                 i".
Schweigger's Galvanometer,.       28,       "    Prussia,.   b.
Schelling's Telegraph,..      38                "       exico,           ib.
Shepherd's Improvements.. 109                 "     Cuba,. 140
Sinstedlem's Suggestions,,.      36                      Valparaiso,.       l.
itlh's, W. R., Telegraph,.       17,, "    India,.it.
inalth and Bain's,..  23
an,lminmering's Telegraph,.       14                     U.
Spain, Telegraph in..         139 Universal L'illustration,..   105
Sturgeon's Telegraph,.  29  Universelle Bibliotheque,              31
tct(ehrer's..       ib.
Steinhetl's    ".                 69 6 
sturgeon's    "..       92 Vail's Assistance of Morse,.       45
tSteinheil, of Munich,                 13 Vail's Printing Telegraph,             82
Subl:narine Telegraph between England     Valparaiso, Telegraph in.      140
and France,  105 Voight's Magazine for 1794,.     5.. "    England & Ireland, 134 Volta of Pavia,..         7.'     "    England & Belgium, ib. Voltaic Pile,...    ib.
T.                                        W.
Watson, Dr., his experiments,.         4
Tclegraph, the term.        1 Water decomposed,..    11
" the First                        2 Walker, Prof. S. C...    1:3
" proposed by Lord Murray,  ib. Westbrook & Rogers' Telegraph,               24'ele-raphic Lines of the World,      121  Weber's, Prof., Alarm,..    39
Ad   " s           U. States,. 126 Wheatstone, of London,                   13
i'   England,           131  Wheatstone & Cook's Telegraphs,        58.'.4 Canada,                      ib. Wheeler's Observations,.         3.. 6"   Ireland,                 135 Winckler of Leipsig,                    ib.
4    Prussia,            ib. Winegar's Improvements in Telegraphs, 100
c'  "    Austria,  136 Woodbury's, Judge, decision, (Appendix,) 22.. ~'      ~Saxony & Bavaria, ib.
"    Tuscany,. 137                      Y.
~"       "    Germany,.         ib. Young's, Arthur, Travels in France,      4
ERRATA.
Page 1, first line, for Tos,E read T7re.
"  32, first line, for "but without contact," read "but without actual
contact.'"