Page:A Dissertation on the Construction of Locks (1785).pdf/15

 to the moſt frequent, and not the leaſt fatal methods of robbery. It is obſervable that thoſe, who are taken in the deſperate occupation of houſe-breaking, are always furniſhed with a number and variety of keys, or other inſtruments, adapted to the purpoſe of picking, or opening Locks; and it needs no argument to prove, that theſe implements muſt be eſſential to the execution of their intentions; for unleſs they can ſecure acceſs to the portable and moſt valuable part of the effects, which in moſt families are depoſited under the imaginary ſecurity of Locks, the plunder would ſeldom recompence the difficulty, and hazard of the enterprize; and till ſome method of ſecurity be adopted by which ſuch keys and inſtruments may be rendered uſeleſs, no effectual check or oppoſition can be given to the exceſſive, and alarming practice of houſe-breaking.

Being confident that I have contrived a ſecurity, which no inſtrument but its proper key