(_May 12, 1917_)
I thank you, with all my heart, for the warmth of the reception you
have given me, and I can assure you that the acclamations with which
you have greeted me will be heard in France. I know the services
rendered by Canada in France. Your soldiers have fought beside our
soldiers, and many have died in the fight we are waging. They have
always shown indomitable courage, and in them Canada has done her duty.
. . . . . . . . . .
Your Canadian soldiers have won the admiration of France. I have seen
your men in action, they are courageous; they are indomitable and
marvellous; they despise death; and their bravery is only equalled by
that of the soldiers of France.
I thank you for the demonstration you have given me, and I am happy
that I have been able, during my stay on this continent, to come up to
this great city of Montreal for a few hours, to meet a people who show
us so warmly that we in France have a place in their affections. All I
can say is, and I say it with all my heart, "Vive le Canada!"