Whenever an acceptance is made by posting a letter, the possible effect of the postal rule has to be considered. If the rule applies, then the acceptance is effective when the letter is posted, not when it is received. The operation of the postal rule may be enacted through the following series of questions:

1. Was a reply by post reasonably expected?
2. Did the offeror specify that acceptance would be effective only when communication was received?
3. Was the acceptance made by posting a letter?
4. Was the letter accepting an offer?
5. Would applying the rule cause manifest inconvenience and absurdity?

Which of the following represents the correct sequencing of these questions?

1. III., IV., I., II., V.
2. IV., I., III., V., II.
3. II., I., V., III., IV.
4. I., II., III., IV., V.