SHILTON'S LETTER FASTENER.

Greymouth Evening Star, Volume XXXI, 28 October 1901, Page 3

SHILTON'S LETTER FASTENER.

Among the ingenious and investive'men in our midst Mr. Shilton, the well-known watchmaker, always has taken a first place, and we are glad to note that he is again to the front, this time with an invention that must become _ universal. The last Gazette to hand notifies that he has applied for a patent for a very ingenous and effective letter fastener. The closing of the letter “is accomplished by simply pressing down the flap of the envelope. The fastener may be made of metal or any other suitable material. For our models annealed aluminium has been used and the total weight of pieces (2) is under 5 grains troy. Sizes of course will vary according to requirements. The metal aluminium combines lightness with strength and cheapness, alse possessing the required flexibility. The cost of the metal is about 1/- per lb, and that quantity would be sufficient to make fasteners for about 1,400 envelopes. The advantages to be fained by the new envelopes are obvious. To disagreeable and unhealthy licking is required. Fastens quickly and securely without loss of time. Saves time in being torn open, no envelope knife being required. When closed fastening parts are all covered in so that in appearance it differs little from ordinary envelopes. Damp can have no effect on the envelope and the flap will not be found stuck down when required for use as is often the case with the gummed envelope. Complete security will be gained by having envelopes made with these fasteners, and no sealing will be necessary. With proper envelopes it will be impossible to gain access to contests without mutilating the paper." A company is already in course of construction for purchasing.Mr Shilton’s patent, and Mr Rogers of Greymouth is now offering shares in what should be a lucrative investment.