But Washington, whose patience had seemed inexhaustible, believed that the time had come to act boldly.

By his instruction Jefferson returned the communication to Genet with a note in which he curtly reminded the obstreperous Frenchman of a diplomat's proper behavior.

As the American Government had already requested the French to recall Genet, his amazing inflation collapsed like a pricked bladder.

He was too wary, however, to return to France which he had served so devotedly.

He preferred to remain in this country, to become an American citizen, and to marry the daughter of Governor Clinton of New York.