In general orders he censured the call and the address as irregular, and then appointed a time and place for the meeting.

Another anonymous address thereupon appeared, quieter in tone, but congratulating the army on the recognition accorded by the commander-in-chief.
When the officers assembled, Washington arose with a manuscript in his hand, and as he took out his glasses said, simply, "You see, gentlemen, I have grown both blind and gray in your service." His address was brief, calm, and strong.

The clear, vigorous sentences were charged with meaning and with deep feeling.

He exhorted them one and all, both officers and men, to remain loyal and obedient, true to their glorious past and to their country.

He appealed to their patriotism, and promised them that which they had always had, his own earnest support in obtaining justice from Congress.