History of the Typewriter

— 122 — guard against this, the shape of the type-bar has been so modified that it assumes the direction, and the blow is directed, as is indicated in Fig. gg. This is described in the catalogue as follows :—“ In action the shoulder, E, strikes the end of the anvil at the same time as the arm strikes the top of the anvil at A, thus bringing the type- arm to a solid and unyielding stop, both in its downward and its forward movement. The result is that the type itself is stopped or locked at the printing point in the most immoveable manner, securing unchangeable alignment.” Fig. 99 The slotted plate itself is now done away with, the same effect being secured, only in a far better manner, by means of slots cut in the quadrant casting itself. The machine is thus rendered more solid and lasting than before, whilst, as stated, the effect of the change is to improve the manner of working. The touch of the No. 6 Williams is pleasant and light. Every key requires exactly the same amount of pressure, and moves just as quickly as the others, there being no slow keys, and no heavy ones. The escapement, which is the most vital spot of a typewriter, has been much strengthened and brought to perfection. There is neither draw-cord, strap or chain to the carriage, the motive power being derived from a spring, coiled up in the circular box shown in the illustration. When this is wound up, there is, of course, a natural tendency for it to release itself, which it would do. save that it is prevented. To effect