I want to tell you that I think this war is a great mistake.

France cannot be destroyed. She is an old country who, despite her misfortunes, has, and always will have, thanks to her past, a tremendous prestige in the world, whatever the fate inflicted upon her.

I feel that an understanding could be reached with Germany which would result in a lasting peace with Europe and believe that a German victory is preferable to a British and Soviet victory.

In the event of a victory over Germany by Soviet Russia and England, Bolshevism in Europe would inevitably follow. Under these circumstances I would prefer to see Germany win the war.

It is in order that France may find her place in the new Europe that you will respond to my appeal.

I want to tell you that I think this war is a great mistake.

But the same intelligence compels Germany to practise the same policy.