History of the Typewriter

—241— Fig. 173A. with the keys in front. By working another key at the left of the index plate, the wheel revolves so as to bring that particular row of keys into focus, and the exact letter is then printed by striking the corresponding front key. Means are provided for shifting to capitals, etc. Of course, all this involves two operations every time a character is struck, but by a proper arrangement of sequences, and a little practice, a very fair speed might be attained. We believe, however, that the machine was never made com- mercially. Torpedo. This is a very substantial machine of the front strike variety, and is manufactured at Frankfort on the Main. It is fitted with forty-two keys, governing eighty-four characters by means of a single shift key. Inking is effected by means of a ribbon, the movement to right or left being varied by means of a lever in front of the machine, just to the left of the name plate. By placing this lever centrally, the ribbon is thrown out of gear, for stencil work, etc. The platen is easily removable, and so is the whole carriage, whilst the paper feed is good and regular. Following the plan now so often found, the margin stops are placed in front of the machine, and can be readily adjusted, or varied in position for the insertion of marginal notes. Means are provided for writing “ sperrschrift,” i.e., spaced out, and many other little conveniences are incorporated in the Torpedo. Two coloured ribbons may be used if desired. Moreover, the