WITH THE A. E. F. IN FRANCE
Thanksgiving Day as another evidence of her gratitude. There was proof in all the War Relief Depots of the growing interest in Christian Science among the French people, manifested in numerous requests for literature, calls for help and attendance at the services.
When our Workers at the Bordeaux branch made known their desire to present the Mayor of the city with a check for 5000 francs for the relief of war sufferers on behalf of The Mother Church Fund, the American consul offered to act as interpreter. The Mayor sent his secretary in an automobile to convey our Workers to his country home, where he received them most cordially. He was deeply moved on being presented with the check and said:
“This is but one more evidence of the bigness and thoughtfulness and loving-kindness of the Americans in their desire to help in every way possible in this terrible war, and I am very glad to accept this trust and will do all in my power to carry out their desires. If I were not a Frenchman I would want to be an American.”
Truly from his viewpoint, this was the highest praise he could offer.
A most appreciated service rendered by our Workers in France was in sending information to friends and families in the United States about their dear ones in the service. Writing to the Bordeaux office, one mother says:
“Your epistle of July 10 is at hand. Words fail me to express my appreciation and thanks. You cannot imagine my surprise when I read your letter, nor my happiness. I cried for joy. Just to hear from someone who was with my
dear boy, and then to know that Love is finding a way. . . .177
