March 12th. 1900:
Following letter from Lord Strathcona to Sir Arthur Bigge:-
"Dear Sir Arthur Bigge,
I am in receipt of your letter of the 9th. inst., and beg that you will convey to the Queen my respectful acknowledgments of her most gracious message.
This significant mark of Her Majesty's consideration will be communicated to the members of the corps by whom it is certain to be received with affection and gratitude.
Both officers and men consider it a privilege to have the opportunity of serving their Sovereign and the Empire, and may be relied upon to do their duty as Canadians and as loyal British subjects; and to justify the confidence in them to which Her Majesty has been graciously pleased to give expression.
Believe me to be,
Yours very truly,
(Signed) Strathcona & Mount Royal
March 12th. 1900:
Telegram from Mr. E. S. Clouston:-
Force expected to arrive Montreal 13th. March at three o'clock in afternoon, and to leave at seven o'clock the same evening.
Dr. Borden, Minister of Militia & Defence to represent Lord Strathcona at embarkation of the force at Halifax. Pressure of Parliamentary duties did not permit of Sir Wilfred Laurier being present on this occasion.
