(North River Line Route 4a) 1830 (Nov. 18) Albany N.Y. to New York N.Y., datelined folded letter with manuscript "Free, Chas. E. Dudley" free frank as Senator (1829-33), New York red "Steam Boat" straightline handstamp; light file fold, Very Fine. Estimate  $100 - 150. In January 1825 the first New York to Albany mail contract commenced with a daily service by the North River Steamboat Company as Route 6 at $2,000 a year. The line was purchased by J.C. and R.L. Stevens in January 1829 when they were contracted for Route 4a at $1,250 a year for the same service. $0 (Image)