p. 4

437
[419]
1840.

This invention however is intended for the good of all baby kind! We know not the name of the particular individual who first conceived the happy idea which led to the invention, the consciousness of having conferred a great and lasting benefit on all future generations is a sufficient reward for him; and we are only anxious to secure to our infant Territory the credit of having invented--a "spring pole!"

[illustration]

It consists of a post set-up in one corner of the room, turning on a pivot, at each end and from near the tip extends out horizontally a stick of elastic wood (as ash or hickory) with a knob on the end. From the extremity of this pole hangs a cord, kept apart below by a stick having holes through each end for the cord to pass through and fasten with knots. By means of a bend around the body and a fundamental strap, the baby is suspended to these cords in such a manner that his feet just touch the floor. In this predicament he is left to his own free action, and the way he can jump and spring and dance about from one side of the room to the other would undoubtedly excite the risability [risibility] of the gravest old bachelor in the country!

***Where is Mr. T. Williams? We have heard nothing since his return from Europe.

Hope you will not turn politician? It is said to be a poor business and I believe it.

Yours affectionately,

Increase.

Darius Lapham.