Postmaster Smart of the Lewiston Postoffice handed to The Sun yesterday an order which he has just received from the Fourth Assistant, Post Master General regarding the numbering of the Rural Route Delivery mail boxes. “For public convenience and to facilitate a more accurate handling of mail by rural free delivery carriers, it has been decided that each rural mail box in use on a rural road, which, under the regulations of the Department, is entitled to service, shall be designated by number in the manner and by the method hereinafter set forth.”

50 Years Ago, 1955

Gov. Muskie today called on Maine voters to show their interest in their form of government by casting their ballots tomorrow.

“I urge all Maine citizens to vote in tomorrow’s election.” Muskie said in a statement. “The fact that it’s mostly referendum questions should not decrease interest in voting. The attention one gives to an election is our strongest guarantee of true democratic government.”

Muskie’s office said the Governor planned to cast his ballot at Waterville, where he is a registered voter.

25 Years Ago, 1980

LONDON – A British bike has won the key that promises to open the door to a huge European cycle market. By producing the victorious machine in this year’s Tour de France, the firm of Raleigh expects to pedal its way to profits in France and the rest of the Continent.

The winning machine was ridden by Dutchman Joop Zoetemilk. His success was the culmination of a five-year campaign to put a British bike first across the finish line in the world’s most grueling cycle race.

Raleigh so far has invested 1.25 million pounds ($3 million) in promoting its machines in the French classic. As an early reward, the company expect to double its annual sales in France. Later it plans a broad assault on the European market, aiming at pushing continental and Japanese competition aside.