CSA 7, two pairs of 5¢ blue (4 margin), all canceled by matching double pen strokes on cover addressed to Hugh G. Windham, Esqr, Cooksville, Noxubee County, Mississippi. E. H. Cushing Express newsprint label, (CSA Catalog type B without date, Special Routes book type II), affixed to back of cover originating west of the Mississippi River (likely in Texas). Cushing label has small scuffs at center but is intact and in good condition, cover open on three sides for display, slight wear and small mend at corner. Ex Frazier and Walske. $4,000.

Edward Hopkins Cushing, publisher of the Houston Daily Telegraph, commenced his service after New Orleans fell to federal forces in April 1862. To improve communications between Texas regiments in the East and their relations at home, as well as secure safe lines for news transmission, Cushing established routes with pony riders and other means of conveyance necessary to cross the lines. Cushing’s agents affixed labels to envelopes carried by his service, usually on the back. These were intended to inform patrons and advertise the service. ONLY ABOUT 20 EXAMPLES OF ALL VARIETIES ARE BELIEVED TO EXIST.