Question

what rhetorical device is being used in the highlighted excerpt from \letter to john adams\ by abigail adams? allusion - a reference to a well - known person/event rhetorical question - a question asked for effect alliteration - repetition of initial sounds i am willing to allow the colony great merit for having produced a washington; but they have been shamefully duped by a dunmore. i know not what sort of defense you have, whether it is so situated by nature, and the common people, who have shown themselves the uncivilized vassals britain would have them be, are not a specimen of the generality

Explanation:

Allusion is a reference to a well - known person or event. Rhetorical question is a question asked for effect. Alliteration is the repetition of initial sounds. Analyzing the text, there is no repetition of initial sounds or a question asked for effect. The text seems to reference people and events, which is characteristic of allusion.

Answer:

Allusion - a reference to a well - known person/event