The Law of Copyright. By W. A. Copinger, M.A. Fourth
Edition by J. M. Easton. (Stevens and Haynes.)—This work was first published in 1870. Many changes in the law have taken place since that date, chiefly in the matter of international copyright. The Convention initiated at Berne in September, 1884, and ratified at the same place in September, 1887, and the Copyright Bill passed by the United States Congress December 3rd, 1890, and made effective by the President's proclamation July 1st, 1891, are the principal events. Of course, the law of international copyright still needs further definition, and the editor cites some important cases bearing on it. Colonial copyright still remains "little better than a delusion." Here we do not ask for preferences, but simple justice ; at present English authors are unmercifully pillaged. But we have things to amend at home. The Musical Copyright Act was made ineffectual by defects of drafting. The street- pirates have to be asked for name and address before proceedings can be taken ! An amending Act was talked out last Session by a philanthropic Member, who thought that music was too highly priced !
Previous page
