Electrical engineer (1835–1901) whose “caveat” describing the invention of a telephone was delivered to the U.S. Patent Office just hours before Alexander Graham Bell’s epochal patent application for a similar device, touching off a protracted legal dispute, at the end of which Bell was declared the “victor.” Gray’s other inventions include a proto-fax machine that was exhibited at the 1893 World’s Columbian Exposition. ALS, one page, 5.75 x 9, Windsor Hotel, New York letterhead, March 14, 1894. Gray writes to Mr. M. M. Marble. In full: “I shall be here till about Saturday A.M. & promise to let you know. Am stopping at the Windsor.” Accompanied by the original mailing envelope. In very good condition, with scattered light staining and creases, and light handling wear. R&R COA.
