Originally published in 1938 as part of the English Institutions series, this book contains a history of the General Post Office in the UK. Crutchley begins by examining the historic roots of the modern postal system, then goes on to describe how the post office fulfils its various roles in society in Britain and internationally, especially in the wake of the telephone and telegraph. The text is illustrated with a number of photographs showing postal infrastructure both past and present, and includes an analysis of philately. This book will be of value to anyone with an interest in the history of the Royal Mail.