14d.
" 500 " " 600 " 15d.
" 600 " " 700 " 16d.
" 700 miles 17d.

These rates were re-enacted by I Vict., cap. 34, [S] 3. The usual
increased charges for double, treble, and ounce letters applied
throughout. Additional rates were charged in respect of conveyance by
packet boat, e.g. for a single letter between Holyhead and Dublin, 2d.;
in respect of Menai Bridge, 1d.; in respect of Conway Bridge, 1d.; and
in respect of any letter conveyed in Scotland by a mail carriage with
more than two wheels, 1/2d. (See 1 Vict., cap. 34, [S][S] 3, 5, 6 and
7).[674]

By 2 and 3 Vict., cap. 52, the Treasury was empowered to regulate rates
of postage, and subsequent changes have been made by Treasury Warrant.

1840.

Not exceeding 1/2 ounce (uniform rate 1d.
irrespective of distance of transmission).
" 1 ounce ( " " " ). 2d.
For each additional ounce, or fraction of an ounce, 2d.

1865.

Rate for letters exceeding 1 ounce in weight reduced to 1d. for each 1/2
ounce, or fraction of 1/2 ounce, after the first ounce.

1871.

Not exceeding 1 ounce 1d.
" 2 ounces 1-1/2d.

For every additional 2 ounces or fraction of 2 ounces
up to 12 ounces, 1/2d.

For letters exceeding 12 ounces in weight, 1d. per ounce,
including the first ounce.

1885.

Rate of 1/2d. per ounce after the second ounce continued without limit.

1897.

Not exceeding 4 ounces 1d.

For every 2 ounces, or fraction of 2 ounces, thereafter, 1/2d.

1915.

Not exceeding 1 ounce 1d.
" 2 ounces 2d.

For every 2 ounces, or fraction of 2 ounces, thereafter, 1/2d.

* * * * *

II. FOREIGN RATES IN THE BRITISH SERVICE

One of the earliest regular posts in England was the post to Dover,
established for the transmission of despatches to and from the
Continent.[675] This post early assumed considerable importance
relatively to the other posts. The settlement of foreign artisans in
this country, in consequence of the persecutions on the Continent,
naturally led to the gr