Lot
4025 
1852 (Nov. 23) Astabula Oh. to Hubbardtown, Tasmania, blue folded letter with "Astabula, Ohio, Nov 23" cds and matching "Paid" handstamp with manuscript "45" cent rating, New York magenta "24" cent credit to G.B., carried by Collins Line Pacific from New York Nov. 28th to Liverpool arriving Dec. 11th, red London Paid (12.11) transit cds, then by ARM Adelaide from Plymouth Dec. 18th, but returned to Plymouth after serious leaks developed, sailed again on Jan. 2nd and on fire for two days at Bay of Biscay, via Cape of Good Hope to Melbourne arriving May 11th, coastal ship Clarence to Launceston, reverse with "Launceston, 11 MY 1853" transit cds, manuscript "5" pence due for 4d arrival charge plus 1d internal, F.-V.F. Estimate $500 - 750.
THIS WAS THE LAST ARM EASTBOUND CONTRACT SAILING - 129 DAYS FROM PLYMOUTH TO MELBOURNE FOR THE "ADELAIDE" RESULTED IN CANCELLATION OF THEIR CONTRACT - EVEN SAILING SHIPS WERE CONSISTENTLY FASTER.
Realized: $375