"The objects of my invention are first, to produce a torpedo which will be cheap in construction, and at the same time effective in operation; second to produce a torpedo which will automatically attach itself to any vessel which it may be made to approach, and will remain attached to the vessel for an indefinite time until it explodes; third to combine with a torpedo adapted to automatically attach itself to vessels a stable time-firing arrangement, by which the explosion of the torpedo can be effected at the proper period; fourth, to adapt torpedoes to approach an enemy at any desired depth of immersion."