Abstract: In accordance with the invention, a novel high-speed flap-opening apparatus is used in combination with a relatively large transfer roller having two spaced rollers disposed along the periphery to form two separated nips. The pivotable envelope flap-opener comprises guide means having a lip for engaging the flap of the envelope. The flap-opener is disposed at a first position for receiving an envelope from the first nip. The force of the envelope causes the flap-opener to move to a second position which guides the envelope to the second nip of the envelope. As the flap emerges from the first nip, the lip of the flap-opener engages the flap to bend it back as the envelope passes through the second nip.