"This is a reminder that you are not in control," said a message that arrived with the envelopes. "Just in case you needed some incentive to stop working we have a little surprise for you. Think fast you have seconds."

Envelopes containing suspicious powder were sent through the mail to at least seven locations in Manhattan, primarily Wells Fargo banks, police officials said.


Several samples tested negative -- evidently containing corn starch, police said. Later, all the powder samples were determined to be non-toxic, The Associated Press reported.

The receipt of the white powder prompted evacuations at bank branches, police told the AP, but caused no injuries.