"U.S. SHIP/3cts." in circle cancel on cover to Worcester, Mass with manuscript "Soldier Letter"

The marking "U.S. Ship 3 CTS" was applied to loose letters collected from soldiers and sailors on blockade duty and carried by a "Federal" ship to a post office for handling and distribution. This specific ship marking has been attributed to the New York Post Office although this attribution is not certain. Covers marked "Soldiers Letter". In both cases, 3¢ postage was due on delivery.