1856 (Jul. 15) Havre, France to New York, N.Y., blue folded letter bearing France 1853, 10c. yellow orange and 80c. carmine, tied by dotted diamonds for prepaid of triple rate, red Havre (7.15) and matching "P.P." framed h.s., carried by Cunard Line Alps from Havre Jul. 15 to New York Jul. 29, New York large "6" circled due rating h.s., Very Fine, A scarce non-contract steamship voyage. Estimate  $150 - 200. Cunard built two iron screw steamships in 1853 to use as auxiliary steamers for merchant cargo carriers rather than contract mail carriers. In 1856, a short-lived service from Havre to New York was inaugurated. 'Alps' made only two round voyages on this service before it was terminated in 1857. $0 (Image)