"Overland per Water Witch" and rated "1/-", the reverse with fine strike of the magenta framed "HAZARIBAGH/PAID." datestamp (HG 1) with Malta transit datestamp adjacent, the address panel with red framed "INDIA" and fancy-framed "CORFU" datestamp; minor imperfections. Fascinating content with reference to the conflict in Afghanistan "communication with the Army of the Indus has been much interrupted" and China "the Company have got into serious difficulty with China. The Emperor appears determined to put a stop to the contraband trade of Opium...as the smuggling of this poison with China is the principal source of the Company's revenue, they will be much embarrassed.". The Water Witch was a privately owner Tea Clipper, which was commandeerred to carry Calcutta Overland Mail to Aden, beacause all E.I.C Steamers were busily occupied, ferrying troops to the Army in the Indus