Note 38 — Chapter IX
Reading edition
The following letter affords an instance of the exertion of authority referred to in the text:—
To the Deputys between London and Tinmouth.
General Post Office, April 6, 1708.
Gentlemen—The bearer hereof, Mr. John Farra, being directed by order of the Lord High Treasurer to proceed to Tinmouth on the publick affairs of the Government, I am ordered by the postmasters-general to require you to furnish the said gentleman with a single horse [i.e. a horse without a guide] if required through your several stages, he being well acquainted with the roads and coming recommended by such authority, which by their order is signified by, Gentlemen, your most humble servant,
B. Waterhouse, Secretary.