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The object of this invention is to obviate the difficulty and trouble attending the squaring of timber by means of the usual straightedges, and not only ensure the accurate-marking or lining off of the timber or logs, but also to expedite the work to a very considerable degree. Our engraving shows the invention, Fig. 1 being a perspective view of the square applied to a stick, and Fig. 2 an end view of the same. A A' represent two squares which may be constructed of steel or wood, and properly graduated on each arm, a' b, into inches and fractional parts. The arms, a', of the squares may extend a certain distance beyond b as seen at a, so that these portions may serve as counterpoises and retain the squares upon the stick or log before they are secured to it, ,as will be described. On the arms, d' b, of each square, a slide, c, is placed. These slides are merely straight bars, having a mortise or rectangular opening made through one end to allow the arms, a' b, to pass through, and a spring or any elastic substance, d, in the mortise, so that by a screw, e, they can retain c on a' and b, without abrading the edge or surface. The arms and slides are graduated to correspond with each other. The device is used as follows :—Suppose a log of winding or irregular form, B, is to be marked that it may be hewed square, it is propped up or supported in any proper way, and a square, A, is placed on each end of the log as in Fig. 1. The operator then takes sight over the two squares, and if they are not in the same plane, one or both squares are wedged or raised at either side until they are both brought in the same plane. The wedges are shown at b'. The slides, c, are then moved on the arms, and brought in contact with the log and secured against it, by means of tha set screws, e. The two squares being adjusted or brought in the same plane by means of the wedges, holes are pricked in the log at each side at corresponding distances, which are ascertained in consequence of having the slides and arms of the squares graduated; for instance, if a prick is made in one side of the log at the inch mark on the slide, a prick is made in the opposite side of the log at a corresponding point designated by the inch mark of the arm, b, each end of the log is pricked in the same way, and the squares are then detached from the log, which can be readily lined from marks previously made. These pricks will be seen at c', Fig. 2. This device may be used not only for marking off square timber for all kinds of framings whatever, but also for marking off rough hewed logs for counter-sawing. It will be seen at once that there is a very appreciable advantage attending the use of this device over the common method by the straight-edge, for the work can be marked off at once expeditiously and accurately. It is the invention of Joseph Hoke, of Grand de Tour, Ogle county, 111., by whom it was patented Dec. 29, 1857, and from whom any further information can be obtained.
