Abstract: Apparatus for delayed replenishment of marking fluid to a ribbon, characterized by a source of marking fluid adjacent to the ribbon and a wear-actuated device to cause delayed contact of marking fluid with the ribbon. Preferred embodiments include a roller rotatable on an axle and means to apply wear-producing frictional pressure between the roller and axle along one radius such that the roller moves along the radius during wear-producing operation. The frictional pressure may be applied by the ribbon. Other preferred embodiments include an axle and roller of particular configuration, an eccentric mounting of the axle to provide adjustability of the delay interval, and an endless ribbon cartridge.