1874 (Sep. 3) Hong Kong, China to Charleston, S.C. via San Francisco, cover with red "Russell & Co., Hong Kong, China" label as flap seal, endorsed "p 'Vasco de Gama' via San Francisco", blue "Forwarded by Macondray & Co., San Francisco" oval forwarders backstamp, entered mails with 1873, 6¢ dull pink, couple pulled perfs, tied by "San Francisco Cal. Oct 3" duplex, docketed as received Oct. 10th; some edge flaws and wear; Fine. Estimate  $750 - 1,000. AN EXCEPTIONALLY RARE PRIVATE SHIP USE FROM HONG KONG, CHINA VIA FORWARDER MACONDRAY & CO. From Daily Alta California "Shipping Intelligence" of Oct. 3, 1874: The Steamer "Vasco de Gama" arrived on October 2 after a 29 day sailing (Sep. 3rd departure) from Hong Kong via Yokohama (20 days). Passengers and merchandise were sent to Macondray & Co. $0 (Image)