President Wilson’s Files

President Poincaré to President Wilson

[Telegram—Translation]

Mr. President: I will not let the anniversary of General Pershing’s arrival in France with the first contingents of the American Army pass by without expressing to you my admiration for the magnificent effort successfully put forth since then by the great sister republic and my warm congratulations on the splendid troops who are beginning to give daily examples of their bravery on the battlefield. The Allies, who have at present to hold in check forces largely increased by Russia’s capitulation, are living through the most trying hours of the war; but the speedy formation of new American units and the unceasing growth of ocean transportation are bringing us surely nearer to the day when the balance will at last be restored. When it is turned in our favor, the Allied armies in brotherly union will wreak a decisive revenge on the enemy and by their common victory will lay the foundations of a peace conforming to the principles solemnly set forth by you and assuring, with the necessary guarantees, the rule of law and the freedom of nations.

Raymond Poincaré
  1. Time of receipt not indicated.