A. B. C. of Parcels Post. pp. 4-5.
C. W. Spofford.
Q. What is the plan of the rural parcels-post proposed by Postmaster-General Meyer?
A. It proposes to carry packages originating at a local office of a rural route for 5 cents for the first pound and 2 cents for each additional pound, with a limit of 11 pounds. Thus, an 11-pound package would be carried to any point on a rural route for 25 cents. It is significant that the rates are the same as those proposed by advocates of a parcels-post applicable to distances within the United States and its insular possessions. This proposal seems to be but an entering wedge for general parcels-post.
Q. Why was rural parcels-post proposed?
A. It was proposed by the Postmaster General as a special favor to country merchants.
Q. Have country merchants asked for any such special favor?
A. No. On the contrary, they are opposed to it on the following grounds:
1. They do not seek class legislation.
2. The plan would be impracticable in its operations.
3. It would discriminate between towns, favoring the town with the greatest number of rural routes, regardless of its trading advantages.
Q. Would rural parcels-post be of any benefit to the farmer?
A. No. For the following reasons:
1. The farmer can now arrange with the rural carrier for the delivery of packages over 4 pounds at rates mutually satisfactory.
2. The proposed rates would be prohibitive on groceries, machinery repairs and on the bulky merchandise most likely to be delivered under this new arrangement.
3. To secure the rural parcels-post service, the farmer would be compelled to buy his goods at the particular town where he gets his mail, when he might prefer to buy elsewhere.