Page:A Dissertation on the Construction of Locks (1815).pdf/20

 A desire to reduce this theory to practice, induced me to apply my utmost thought and attention, to contrive an effectual impediment 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 generally 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 can reach; and which may be so applied, as not only to defy the art and ingenuity of the most skilful workman, but to render the utmost force ineffectual