Lot
148 
1858 (Nov. 29, Dec. 26) Toronto, Canada to Halifax N.S., pair of covers, first with "Toronto, C.W. Nov 29" cds and matching fancy "3" rating handstamp carried overland, reverse with Montreal (11.30) transit and Halifax (12.1.1857) arrival; other with "Toronto C.W. Dec 26" cds and light strike of matching fancy "3" rating handstamp overstruck with "7½ Cy" circled rating handstamp, carried via Boston by Cunard Line Canada, Halifax (1.1.1858) arrival backstamp; each with light horizontal filing crease, a Very Fine exhibit pair showing different routings. Estimate $750 - 1,000.
A closed mail to Canada was established on October 27th 1851. It was made up in time to be forwarded by the Cunard steamer to the United States. Letters so forwarded were to be especially addressed "Closed Mail for Canada". This route was largely established due to the opening of the Vermont Central Railroad, which extended from Rouse's Point N.Y. to Boston. From January 1st 1868, Inman steamers from New York replaced the Cunard service from Boston that had ceased to run to Halifax and Liverpool.