re: NYT on crypto

["A. Padgett Peterson P.E. Information Security" <PADGETT@hobbes.orl.mmc.com>]

>I thought that, for the most part, the telegraph systems described
>above were to reduce cable charges (1 code word instead of a 15-word
>sentence, a huge savings in those days).  

Was one use however I seem to recall citations dating back to Niccolo Polo
reguarding the use of trade codes & that was a while before the telegraph.
If I were really curious, would also check out Reuters, Lloyds, Rothchilds,
and the Borgias. Would not be surprised to find a reference in either/all
"The Prince", "The Art of War",  and the letters of Nathan Hale.

However I suspect that Markoff really meant to be referring to mathematical
algoritms such as the LOASDR. I suppose that only dates back to the
diameters of stygi (sp ?) about the same time that passwords were first 
recorded (and changed daily).
						Warmly,
							Padgett

ps if anyone has a spare LOASDR or CMSDR, I would be interested 8*).