Junior clerk Archibald Hendricks has filed an appeal that could either streamline pneumatic messaging or spark a nationwide shortage of rubber bands. He contends the 1927 ‘Efficiency Stamp’ shortfall, which idled three transatlantic tubes for eleven minutes, justifies sending one message under a single commemorative stamp instead of the usual pair.
The Sorting Bureau has scheduled its 47-page ruling for delivery inside a gold-foil capsule at 4:17 p.m. during the Savoy wire-ball. Approval would trim $14.07 from each quarter’s budget, enough to supply every sorter with an extra sheet of stamps for a week.
Citizens have already formed stamp-worshipping circles hoping one-stamp rules will cover all mail under 400 words; others fear the savings will simply encourage longer, unchecked correspondence. Efficiency consultant Agatha Feathersmith observed, “A single stamp may suit brevity, yet it invites every sender to treat the tubes as personal diaries.”
The Bureau will announce its decision at the appointed hour; until then the tubes remain on standby.
