The gross revenue of the postal services, i.e. excluding telegraphs and telephones, has increased from £7,130,819 in 1880-1 to £9,851,078 in 1890-1, and £21,928,311 in 1913-14. The net revenue from postal services has increased from £2,720,784 in 1880-1 to £3,163,989 in 1890-1, and £6,642,067 in 1913-14. The expansion of net revenue has not kept pace with the increase in the total number of packets passing by post. Since 1880 the total numbers have increased some 3-1/2-fold, and the net revenue some 2-1/2-fold.[99] The relation between the gross revenue and the total expenditure on the postal services, which in recent years has not shown any large variation, fluctuates in the neighbourhood of 70 per cent.[100] NOTE.--On the 1st November 1915, in order to secure increased revenue for war purposes, the inland letter rate was increased to the following:-- For packets not exceeding 1 ounce in weight 1d. For packets between 1 ounce and 2 ounces 2d. For every succeeding 2 ounces 1/2d. Under the existing abnormal circumstances it is difficult to form a satisfactory estimate of the result of this increase. Numerous contrary forces are in operation. The growth of the Army and the dislocation of private business resulting from the war have had important effects on the number of letters posted. Large numbers of letters are exchanged with men in the Army, but, on the other hand, all letters from troops on active service pass free of postage. It has been estimated that in the first five months the new rates yielded an increased revenue of nearly half a million.--See Postmaster-General's statement, 3rd July 1916 (_Parl. Debates (Commons_), vol. lxxxiii. cols. 1231-2). * * * * * LETTER POST IN CANADA