The Fourth of July in France

John, haven't you noticed that Mr. Dupont is always doing his best to persuade us that we are at home here in France ? Yes, but it is the same thing every place (where) I go. Let us not be astonished at this, for the French Republic itself is endeavoring to show its gratitude for the help that we gave her 3 during the World War.

Therefore, yesterday afternoon when I was present at the military parade, something touched me to the bottom of my 4 heart. Everybody was showing what close bonds link the two republics. The post office and all the other public buildings were decorated with 5 American flags. Everybody was taking part in the ceremonies.

1 lui. 2 à. 3 to her. 4 Replace with the definite article.

5 See Grammar Review, Section 40, c, 3.

The military bands were playing American airs, and it seemed to me that there were many American troops in the parade that filed past on the boulevard.

Do you mean that our government had sent these troops from the United States to be present at the celebration of our national holiday in a foreign country? Not at all. You must remember that we still have an Army of Occupation in Germany, that is to say, along the Rhine. A regiment of these soldiers had left Coblentz to take part in the celebration.

I spoke to Mr. Dupont about it, but he wasn't surprised. He even told me that there was no great difference between our Fourth of July and their Fourteenth of July ! And he convinced me, for after all, they represent the same thing. Both indicate the date when 1 the two republics won their liberty. Therefore, why should they not be celebrated 2 the same day in France ? It is an excellent idea, I assure you.