Go back to, oh, the early 1980s. Internet-connected computers are rare and Ma Bell charges exorbitant prices for long distance phone calls. But in the off hours you can dial up another computer and use UUCP (or something similar) to transfer mail and usenet posts. It may take a week but eventually your email might make it across the country. And I, for one, welcome our bang path overlords. Also: Never underestimate the bandwidth of a rocket full of quarter-inch tapes hurtling through space.