The historical records of the Science of Engineering are notoriously incomplete and general knowledge of the origin of commonplace inventions is lamentably poor.<br><br>The nineteenth century produced many remarkable men whose works are everywhere in constant use, but whose names are lost to History.<br><br>This story, originally intended for publication in a well-known magazine, is offered to the reader who can appreciate a record of the inventions and works of noble minds and who takes a just pride in the achievements of his countrymen.<br><br>Upon the death of Mr. Isaac Dodds, in 1882, practically no public mention was made of his contributions to engineering science; only the late Mr. Charles Manby, Secretary of the Institute of Civil Engineers, ventured to record some of his works.