(North River Line) 1813 (Nov. 18) New York N.Y. to Albany N.Y., datelined folded letter carried up the Hudson and entered mails with "Albany Nov 24" cds and matching "Ship" handstamp and manuscript "19" rating for 17¢ rate plus 2¢ ship fee for under 300 miles (the 160 miles transit on the Hudson was not included); some docketing at left, Very Fine. Estimate  $100 - 150. Until 1823 when the Supreme Count overturned the monopoly of the North River Line for the running of steamboats on New York State waters, letters were carried between New York and Albany as ship letters. On arrival at Albany the "Ship" rating handstamp was applied and 2¢ added to the inland postage. $0 (Image)