"A Hundred Years by Post: A Jubilee Retrospect" by James Wilson Hyde is a historical account written in the late 19th century. The book reflects on the evolution of the Postal Service over the past century, highlighting the significant changes that have occurred in communication methods and their broader impact on society, politics, and commerce. The narrative likely examines key developments, such as the introduction of the Penny Post, and how they shaped modern communication. The opening portion of the text vividly illustrates the astounding differences between communication practices at the end of the 18th century and those of the late 19th century. It describes how individuals would be struck by the transformation brought about by advancements in technology and infrastructure, such as the advent of steam trains and the electric telegraph, which rendered previous methods, like horse and foot messengers, almost obsolete. This reflection sets the stage for exploring the historical context of the Postal Service, the various social and political implications, and the evolution of public opinion as a result of improved communication in society. (This is an automatically generated summary.)