Page:A Dissertation on the Construction of Locks (1815).pdf/12

vi the difficulties and impediments opposed to the measure, when under consideration of a Committee of the House of Commons, so far delayed its progress, that it appeared more than probable the existing Patent would expire before the customary forms could be gone through; the Bill in consequence was withdrawn, and the only proceeding of the Committee was the examination of two gentlemen on the part of its opponents, who are reported to have, there, picked a Lock constructed on this principle, with a piece of wood and a quill.

Editor therefore has thought it necessary to subjoin an Authentic Extract from the Minutes of the Proceedings of the said Committee, taken verbatim as delivered, and containing such part as comprised a complete summary of all the observations made; and which he trusts will entirely remove any unfavourable impression, if it is possible such can remain, after an attentive perusal of the following pages.

respect to these Witnesses, whose principal aim was to establish a position that the key is