In this brief but influential work, William Orton argues for the establishment of a postal telegraph system in the United States. He points out the many benefits that such a system would have for commerce, communication, and public safety, and refutes the objections that have been raised against it. His arguments were influential in shaping public opinion and policy on this issue for years to come. This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important, and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work is in the "public domain in the United States of America, and possibly other nations. Within the United States, you may freely copy and distribute this work, as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work. Scholars believe, and we concur, that this work is important enough to be preserved, reproduced, and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process, and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.