Terry Patent gadget

Posted: Wed Dec 21, 2011 6:30 pm     Post subject: Terry Patent gadget

Hi Ive discovered a very small gadget in my parents attic it in a small brass case approx 1 inch by 1/2 inch and maybe 1/8 deep it has terry's patent on the side and seems to consist of two small hooks hinged on a rivet. I was trying to fing out what it was and it seems Terry's Patent might refer to a old american clock mechanisim, My parents at one point did have an american clock and I was wondering if this may be some kind of chain shortener or some thing?.

Any ideas would be appreciated I can post pics if it would help