yebbut the market will be open for a set number of hours that won't change.

Clever reference, though.

As far as the Pony Express goes, it's an excellent example of image over substance. Only not really, because it was an example of how far certain technology had to be utilized to achieve a new standard. Many horses had to be kept fresh, many stations were required. And the cost of utilizing the service was exorbitant if that service was to be maintained.

Think Concorde versus 747.

When the dream was realized it was through the transcontinental railroad.

They will realize the effective dream of the Concorde, just right now we're not too sure of the specific way it'll be done. Isn't it Elon Musk who is trying to push a vacuum tube through which vehicles pass?

The idea dates back to the great Isambard Kingdom Brunel, and perhaps even farther...