He opened his hands, showing a piece of white paper about a foot long and perhaps half as wide.
"There is writing upon it; I ask your honor to read it," he said.
I took it and read:
To Sir William Howe, Commander-in-chief of His Britannic Majesty's forces in Philadelphia:—
I beg to present to you my compliments, and to notify you that I shall pay a visit to the City of Philadelphia one night this week, in order that you may prepare a reception worthy of yourself and me.
Yours faithfully,
William Wildfoot,
Captain in the Continental Army.
"It is said that over twenty of these have been found in the city to-day," said Waters, "all exactly alike, and written in the same hand."
The penmanship was large, rough, and angular, evidently that of a man more accustomed to grasping the sword than the goose quill.
Catron swore a tremendous oath.
"Well, of all unmitigated impertinences this is the greatest!" he exclaimed.
"It's mere bravado," said Vivian. "Of course the man will not think of venturing into Philadelphia."