Speedy postman

SIR, — Your readers may be interested in comparing the efficiency of your current Royal Mail service with what it was like more than 110 years ago.

Some time ago I came across an old postcard that was mailed in Downpatrick at 3pm on Friday, September 29,1905, and addressed to a residence in Castlewellan. It bears the following brief message: “I got your letter this morning. Meet me yourself on Sunday. I would enjoy a walk with you, don’t forget, this is very cold weather. Hope yous are all well. With Best Love. ES.”

One can surmise that the writer was confident that the card would be delivered in time for the recipient to accept the invitation for the stroll on Sunday, October 1. Now that sounds like good service!

Yours etc,

PETER A MURPHY,

Brampton, Ontario, Canada.