noted caustically 1890 that the "gen(era)l
company" (EGE) asked for system that could compete with
Westinghouse "in our small town business," but they did not
employ his 5-wire system because "they were unwilling— although
the system was success— enter into the competition when
using many wires. The management
of Edison General Electric quickly moved reduce costs,
including the costs research and development." Edison criticized the company for not
energetically introducing his high voltage direct current
system. When EGE finally offered a/c high voltage
system its franchisees, did with caveat that the
technology was "dangerous and inefficient best, but
. They were afraid the hazards high voltage
currents and thought was too risky introduce the
utility companies.V-32
organization was better control expenditure. EGE was now
the major contractor for the services the laboratory. (See
Sidebar) Research was carried out under contract and
bills had presented promptly for payment.
Edison's growing dissatisfaction with the management of
EGE was centered their inability, refusal, introduce
his improved technology the second generation electric
lighting. The company
reserved the right dispute bills and refuse pay for
research they had not commissioned. The "leadened collar" was
being pulled tighter and Edison came the conclusion that the
financial and technological conservatism EGE cramped his
inventive style
