“Because I patented my inventions?”
“Yes, sir; for placing full descriptions and drawings of them before the public until you’ve startled the aviation world and are ready to advertise what you’ve done.”
Steve stared, a perception of Cumberford’s meaning gradually coming to him.
“Why, as for that,” he said a little uneasily, “no one ever takes the trouble to read up new patents, there are so many of them. And, after all, it’s a protection.”
“Is it? I can put another brace in that new elevator of yours and get a patent on it as an improvement. The brace won’t help it any, but it will give me the right to use it. I’m not positive I couldn’t prevent you from using yours, if I got mine publicly exhibited and on the market first.”
Steve was bewildered, and Orissa looked very grave. But Mr. Cumberford lighted another cigarette and added:
“Nevertheless, I wouldn’t worry. As you say, the patent office is a rubbish heap which few people ever care to examine. Is everything covered by patent?”
“Everything but the new automatic balance. I haven’t had time to send that on.”
“Then don’t.”
“The old one is patented, but it proved a failure and nearly killed me. The one I am now completing is entirely different.”