the life of Philo T Farnsworth - Early Television Foundation

PROMISE OF FINANCIAL HELP 43
system disclosed a grasp of mathematics that was phenomenal
considering his lack of formal training. During the conversation
Farnsworth marshaled an astonishing array of authorities to
his defense and spoke with familiarity regarding scientific works
of which the average college science student was hardly aware.
I knew nothing about the procedure for patent protection.
Farnsworth had a general notion, and, like most lone inventors,
he was extremely fearful of his ideas being stolen.
"The idea hasn't been patented," he said, "because I haven't
had the money. Every time I pick up a scientific or amateur
journal I'm afraid I'll see that someone has turned up with the
same ideas I have."
He continued moodily, "There should be a foundation to
which inventors could submit ideas and get backing for worthwhile
inventions. I believe such a foundation would make
money."
"Actually," I asked, "have you anything to patent yet Don't
you have to make a thing work before you can get a patent on
it"
"Yes," said Phil, "there is
something in patent regulations
regarding reduction to practice, as they call it."
"What do you think it would cost to build up a first model
of your scheme"
"I don't know," Phil replied, "but it shouldn't cost too
much."
"Well, think it over," I concluded, if
"maybe the cost isn't
too great we can find the money to do it."
The prospect of getting someone actively interested in his
venture renewed the young inventor's enthusiasm. His mind
led him on into eager expositions of how it could be developed.
His interest was not solely scientific, for he saw in the practical