What was the fastest overland communication service beforethe telegraph?

Before the telegraph, the fastest overland communication service was the Pony Express, which operated in the United States from April 1860 to October 1861. This service utilized a relay system of horseback riders to deliver messages across the country, covering approximately 1,966 miles from Missouri to California in about 10 days. The Pony Express was renowned for its speed and efficiency, significantly reducing the time it took for news to travel across the nation compared to previous methods.