Confederacy, Forwarded by E.H. Cushing. Black on white newsprint Express label (Dietz type II) affixed to back of cover originating west of the Mississippi and addressed to Decatur, Geo., franked with 1862 5¢ blue vert. pair tied by "Atlanta, Ga./Oct. 27" cds, cover docket at left by sender "Whoever will take this across the Mississippi, will confer a lasting favor and relieve the anxiety of a mother & sister", label with some staining & pre-use internal tear, cover opened out for display, Very Fine, a rare west-to-east Trans-Mississippi express usage. Estimate  $4,000 - 6,000. E. H. Cushing, publisher of the Houston Daily Telegraph, commenced his express service after New Orleans fell to the Federals in April 1862. In an effort to improve communications between Texan regiments in the East and their relations at home, as well as secure safe lines for news transmission, Cushing established routes with pony riders and other means of conveyance necessary to cross the Federal lines. Cushing's agents affixed labels to the backs of envelopes carried by express. These were intended to inform patrons and advertise the service. Approximately 20 examples (of all varieties) are believed to exist. . $0 (Image)