R.L. STEELE, of Rockingham, Richmond county, N.C. , is the inventor of a most wonderful adding machine.  It is very simple in construction and never makes a mistake.  A column of figures of any length can be quickly and accurately added.  Mr. STEELE will apply at once for a patent.

Source: Roanoke Beacon,  23 August 1889.  Available online at digitalnc.org.