Chapter XVI: Appendix: I

THE KING'S MESSAGE TO THE CANADIANS.

To the First Division.

On February 4th, 1915, His Majesty the King inspected the 1st Canadian Division on Salisbury Plain, and afterwards wrote a message to the troops, which was read to all units on board ship after their embarkation for France. The full text of the message is as follows:--

Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men:

At the beginning of November I had the pleasure of welcoming to the
Mother Country this fine contingent from the Dominion of Canada,
and now, after three months' training, I bid you Godspeed on your
way to assist my Army in the field.

I am well aware of the discomforts that you have experienced from
the inclement weather and abnormal rain, and I admire the cheerful
spirit displayed by all ranks in facing and overcoming all
difficulties.

From all I have heard, and from what I have been able to see at
to-day's inspection and march-past, I am satisfied that you have
made good use of the time spent on Salisbury Plain.

By your willing and prompt rally to our common flag you have
already earned the gratitude of the Motherland.

By your deeds and achievements on the field of battle I am
confident that you will emulate the example of your
fellow-countrymen in the South African War, and thus help to secure
the triumph of our arms.

I shall follow with pride and interest all your movements. I pray
that God may bless you and watch over you.

To the Second Division.

On September 2nd, 1915, the King, accompanied by Lord Kitchener, inspected the 2nd Division in Beachborough Park, Shorncliffe. Before leaving, His Majesty directed General Turner to inform all Commanding Officers that he considered the Division one of the finest he had inspected since the beginning of the war. Subsequently the following message from the King was published in Orders:--

Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men of the 2nd Canadian
Division--six months ago I inspected the 1st Canadian Division
before their departure for the front. The heroism they have since
shown upon the field of battle has won for them undying fame. You
are now leaving to join them, and I am glad to have an opportunity
of seeing you to-day, for it has convinced me that the same spirit
that animated them inspires you also. The past weeks at
Shorncliffe have been for you a period of severe and rigorous
training; and your appearance at this inspection testifies to the
thoroughness and devotion to duty with which your work has been
performed. You are going to meet hardships and dangers, but the
steadiness and discipline which have marked your bearing on parade
to-day will carry you through all difficulties. History will never
forget the loyalty and readiness with which you rallied to the aid
of your Mother Country in the hour of danger. My thoughts will
always be with you. May God bless you and bring you victory.