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Smiles, Samuel, 1812-1904

"Men of Invention and Industry"


"That the completion of an invention of this kind, not the effect
of chance, but the result of mechanical combinations methodically
arranged in the mind of the artist, should be attended with many
obstructions and much delay, may be readily imagined. Our share
in this event has, indeed, only been the application of the
discovery, under an agreement with the patentees, to our own
particular business; yet few can conceive--even with this limited
interest--the various disappointments and deep anxiety to which
we have for a long course of time been subjected.
"Of the person who made this discovery we have but little to add.
Sir Christopher Wren's noblest monument is to be found in the
building which he erected; so is the best tribute of praise which
we are capable of offering to the inventor of the printing
machine, comprised in the preceding description, which we have
feebly sketched, of the powers and utility of his invention. It
must suffice to say further, that he is a Saxon by birth; that
his name is Koenig; and that the invention has been executed
under the direction of his friend and countryman, Bauer."
The machine continued to work steadily and satisfactorily,
notwithstanding the doubters, the unbelievers, and the
threateners of vengeance. The leading article of The Times for
December 3rd, 1814, contains the following statement:--
"The machine of which we announced the discovery and our adoption
a few days ago, has been whirling on its course ever since, with
improving order, regularity, and even speed.


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