More Scio-Malta correspondence

Abstract

In 1856, besides the Lloyd-Triestino line, there were also the English and French ships carrying mail in the Mediterranean. In 1856 an Anglo French Postal Convention was drawn up, and signed between the English and French postal authorities. The convention regulated mainly postage rates which of course included rates to be charged for correspondence, posted in France or Algeria addressed to Malta or vice versa. The principle of charging a higher rate for unpaid letters received, (8d per 1/4 ounce), than for paid letters despatched, (4d per 1/4 ounce), applied not only for letters between France and Malta, but also to letters conveyed by French packets between Malta and the other countries, where France maintained Post Offices, such as several places in Turkey, Syria, or Egypt. The British Post Office was entitled to be credited with a British rate both upon paid and unpaid letters sent to and from Malta, this is the reason why we find an English rate on these letters. [excerpt]