History of Northampton, Massachusetts, from its settlement in 1654;

1722-1736.1 FATHER RALE'S WAR. 25
Express Messengers Official Communication between the extremand
Couriers. jties of the Ct)mmonwealth was made by-
means of posts, express riders or couriers,
always on horseback. This was toilsome and difficult in
the best of times, but positively dangerous when the Indians
were hostile. Yet there were hardy and courageous
men constantly employed in this duty, most of whom, even
when the peril was greatest, went alone. Particularly during
the wars were the services of these men important and
valuable% They made most excellent time, almost marvel-
ous, when the state of the country is taken into account.
Not only was the way beset with dangers from Indian
scouts, but the paths, for most of the distance, were but
single trails. Roads, in the common acceptation of the
word, there were none, even within the limits of the oldest
plantations. Yet these men were scarce twenty-four hours
on the way between Albany and Northampton, or between
Northampton and Boston. Man or beast had little time for
rest while on duty.
One of the most prominent and courageous of the men
emjjloyed in this section, was Benjamin Alvord of Northampton.
His first experience was during this war, from
1732 to 1726, and he acquitted himself so acceptably, that
his services were in demand for many years after. While
the above negotiations were going forward, he seems to
have been almost constantly on the road. He started with
dispatches from Albany on the 19^'' of June, was in Northampton
the next day, and set out for Boston the day following.
Another person engaged in this work was Benjamin
King, and on one occasion at least, they went in company.
At this time Joseph Hawley, in a letter to Col.
Partridge, writes as follows : —
" According to your desire I have procured a man to go to Boston on
his Majts Service : viz : Daniel King. * * * Sir since I wrote the
above Benj Alvord is come from Albany, ordered to Boston, and to
travel to-day. I would advise y' King go along with Him think it to
much boldness for one to travel alone especially upon public service.
* * King is now at Hadly w"' Alvord waiting your Honors pleasure." ^
The following year the horse of John Kingsley of Northampton,
was impressed for Alvord's use to go to Albany,
1 Sheldon's History of Deerfleld, vol. 1, p. 419.