Question On Stampless Folded Letter KY To MO 1846

Browsing ebay today I came across this item which caught my eye. Before I bid, I need to seek the guidance from those more knowledgeable.

Lot in question: 333000613931


My question has to do with the 10 in the lower right hand corner. Is this the rate or something added at a later time?

What would the rate be for a stampless folded letter mailed from Crab Orchard, Kentucky to Trenton, Missouri during this time?

Thanks for taking the time to respond.

-MV

For the long-term record, here is the picture:



Yes, the "10" in the lower right is the rate in the matching ink of the postmark and date. Rates were greatly simplified and reduced effective July 1, 1845, exactly two years before Scott 1 and 2 stamps were released. 5 cents for up to 300 miles, 10 cents over 300 miles, single rate (weight). I did not get out an atlas, but depending on distance, this is a single-rate 10 cent 300+ mile letter or a double-rate <300-mile letter. This piece sent collect.

The distance between the two is about 620-miles (using I 64), so its the single rate.

Thanks for the explanations. I feel more confident now in bidding.


-MV