Page:A Dissertation on the Construction of Locks (1815).pdf/21

 and thereby to secure what is most valued as well from dishonest servants as from the midnight ruffian,—I think myself at liberty to declare (what nothing but the discovery of an infallible remedy would justify my disclosing) that all dependance on the security of common Locks, even of those which are constructed upon the best principle of any in general use, is fallacious. To demonstrate this bold and alarming proposition, I shall first state the common principles which are applied in the art of Lock-making; and, by describing their operation in instruments differently constructed, and possessing different degrees of excellence, prove that the best constructed Locks, with fixed wards, are liable to be secretly opened with great facility; and are calculated only to induce a false confidence in their effect, and to throw temptation to dishonesty in the way of those who are acquainted with their imperfections. I shall then proceed to the specification of a principle, which by great application and expence, has been completed, and is now offered to the notice of the public, as a perfect security against every possible effort of art and ingenuity; and which I submit to the most critical investigation of curious, and skilful judges, with a confidence which assures