&c.," and Washington agreed to an interview with the officer who bore it.

In imposing uniform and with the stateliest manner, Washington, who had an instinct for effect, received the envoy.

The awed messenger explained that the symbols " &c.

&c." meant everything, including, of course, military titles; but Washington only said smilingly that they might mean anything, including, of course, an insult, and refused to take the letter.

He referred to Congress, a body which Howe could not recognize, the grave question of the address on an envelope and Congress agreed that the recognition of his rank was necessary.