E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Congé.
“To give a person his congé” is to dismiss him from your service. “To take one’s congé” is to give notice to friends of your departure. This is done by leaving a card at the friend’s house with the letters P.P.C. (pour prendre congé) inscribed on the left-hand corner. (French, donner congé and donner à son congé.)
