On the discovery of K I 7699 A line strength variation during the 1982 - 1984 eclipse of Epsilon Aurigae

The discovery of K I 7699{\AA} line strength variations during the 1982-1984 eclipse of {\epsilon} Aurigae is described. The equivalent widths and radial velocities of the K I 7699{\AA} line derived from spectra obtained during 1981 November to 1983 July with the 2.1-meter Otto Struve reflector telescope of the McDonald observatory are presented.