1839 Stampless cover carried by the ship Montreal, bearing a clear strike of 'GILPIN'S EXCHANGE/READING ROOM AND/FORWARD LETTER OFFICE/N. YORK' agent's stamp, used between 1838 and 1840. Addressed to London, the cover also features a bold strike of the black framed 'PORTSMOUTH/SHIP LETTER' marking upon arrival in the United Kingdom.

The Montreal served the Black X/London Swallowtail Line from 1833 to 1844 under Captain Henry L. Champlin. This cover is an early example of Gilpin's forwarding service, used to expedite correspondence during this period.