Every common carrier doing business in this State shall, if notice be given it that prompt shipment is required, transport to its destination all freight received by it for transportation within this State within a reasonable time after receipt thereof, to wit: Between points not over one hundred miles apart, seventy-two hours; between points over one hundred and not over two hundred miles apart, ninety-six hours and between points over two hundred miles apart, one hundred and twenty hours. The nearest route by railroad shall be taken in each case as the distance between the points. When requested any such common carrier shall insert in the bill of lading the words "prompt shipment required," which shall be conclusive evidence of such notice and each such common carrier shall extend such notice to its connecting line or be liable for the consequences of its failure to do so.