The Horse in Motion

Abstract

IN NATURE, vol. xxv. p. 591, you notice the publication of a work entitled “The Horse in Motion,” by Dr. Stillman, and remark: “the following extract from Mr. Stanford's preface shows the exact part taken by each of those concerned in the investigations.” Will you permit me to say, if the subsequently quoted “extract” from Mr. Stanford's preface is suffered to pass uncontradicted, it will do me a great injustice and irreparable injury. At the suggestion of a gentleman, now residing in San Francisco, Mr. Stanford asked me if it was possible to photograph a favourite horse of his at full speed. I invented the means employed, submitted the result to Mr. Stanford, and accomplished the work for his private gratification, without remuneration. I subsequently suggested, invented, and patented the more elaborate system of investigation, Mr. Stanford paying the actual necessary disbursements, exclusive of the value of my time, or my personal expenses. I patented the apparatus and copyrighted the resulting photographs for my own exclusive benefit. Upon the completion of the work Mr. Stanford presented me with the apparatus. Never having asked or received any payment for the photographs, other than as mentioned, I accepted this as a voluntary gift; the apparatus under my patents being worthless for use to any one but myself. These are the facts; and on the bases of these I am preparing to assert my rights.