[Samuel F. B. Morse, His Letters and Journals by Samuel F. B. Morse]@TWC D-Link bookSamuel F. B. Morse, His Letters and Journals CHAPTER XXIV 7/24
The success is complete.
We have tried the experiment of sending a pretty full letter, which I set up from the numbers given me, transmitting through two miles of wire and deciphered with but a single unimportant error. "I am staying out to perfect a modification of my portrule and hope to see you on Tuesday, or, at the farthest, on Wednesday, when I shall tell you all about it.
The matter looks well now, and I desire to feel grateful to Him who gives success, and be always prepared for any disappointment which He in infinite wisdom may have in store." We see from this letter, and from an account which appeared in the Morristown "Journal," that in these exhibitions the messages were sent by numbers with the aid of the cumbersome dictionary which Morse had been at such pains to compile.
Very soon after this, however, as will appear from what follows, the dictionary was discarded forever, and the Morse alphabet came into practical use. The following invitation was sent from the New York University on January 22, 1838:-- "Professor Morse requests the honor of Thomas S.Cummings, Esq., and family's company in the Geological Cabinet of the University, Washington Square, to witness the operation of the Electro-Magnetic Telegraph at a private exhibition of it to a few friends, previous to its leaving the city for Washington. "The apparatus will be prepared at precisely twelve o'clock on Wednesday, 24th instant.
The time being limited punctuality is specially requested." Similar invitations were sent to other prominent persons and a very select company gathered at the appointed hour.
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