As soon as you have your idea all thought out and have made a drawing, an experiment, a cardboard or other model, in fact anything that will show what it will do, at least to some extent, and so prove that you have really made a new invention, invite two or three of your trusted friends to see it.
Fig. 11. A TELAUTOGRAPH. A TELEGRAPH FOR REPRODUCING WRITING AT A DISTANCE
Having shown, explained and enthused over it have them go with you to a notary public and sign a statement to the effect that they have seen it; then have him put his signature and his seal on it. You have two years from the date you first showed it to develop and file an application for a patent on it but should you fail to do this within the above time limit any one else can take up your idea, if they know of it, work it up and get a patent on it.
Finally keep a note book and write down every thought you have about your invention, and every experiment you make in good black ink; draw pictures and diagrams and make photographs if possible of your work as you go along and put them in your book with the dates on them. This kind of a record will furnish you with what patent attorneys call the evidence of conception, and which will prove very useful in establishing your prior rights if you should ever get into an infringement suit.
Fig. 12. THE GYRO COMPASS OF A SHIP. A GYROSCOPE TAKES THE PLACE OF THE MAGNETIC NEEDLE