Slightly off topic question

[Jan Koenig]

This is actually a question about patent law, rather than copyright law, but I couldn't find a patent law forum like this so I thought I'd ask the question here.

I live in the US and I'm researching some early history of fountain pens. I've run across a reference to a patent issued in the UK in 1855 that lists a name for the patentee, but then notes that it "was communicated by Newell A. Prince". Prince held the US patent for this invention.

Can any of you tell me what "was communicated by" means at this time (1850's) and in this context? Is it some kind of assignment?

Thanks in advance for your help!

[AndyJ]

Hi Jan

I have no idea what "was communicated by" means in this context.

As this is a largely historical question, you could try asking here:

Business & IP Centre London
British Library
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[Jan Koenig]

Thank you! I have sent them an email.