“We, the undersigned Officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, and Men of the Overseas Military Forces of Canada desire to take this opportunity of expressing to you our gratitude for the many acts of kindness and hospitality that you have shown to the members of the Canadian Forces since they arrived in this country. “We also wish to express to you our sympathies in the recent cruel and unjust charge of ‘hoarding’ which was brought against you, and we feel sure that when the true facts are brought to the knowledge of the public they will realise that the spirit of patriotism you have shown throughout the war, and the generosity with which you have contributed articles to the various periodicals published for the benefit of the troops do not coincide with the possibility of any contravention of war measures. “We also wish to add the expression of our admiration for the pre-eminent position you have attained in the world of literature and art, and to assure you that none appreciate your works more than the people of Canada. “We trust that this assurance of our admiration for your genius, and our sympathy in the worry to which you have been so unjustly subjected, will prove to you that we are not unmindful of the kindness and warm interest you have invariably shown towards Canadian soldiers. “We beg to remain, ”Sincerely yours,” Here followed a long list of officers’ and men’s names; the kind and generous testimonial of their friendship was dated from Bramshott Camp, Hants, April 16th, 1918. I make no comment on this most valued “vote of confidence” voluntarily given by brave and chivalrous men. I publish it just as it is--one of my most precious possessions. I can endure even dear Dogberry’s malice with such a battalion of fighting friends! One other thing may be mentioned as showing the curious cross-purposes of the Stratford-on-Avon “justices” in the prosecution against me, and that is the letter written to me by the Deputy-Mayor on the eve of the trial--thus:-- “December 31, 1917. “DEAR MISS CORELLI,--Allow me to offer you my sincere wishes that the year 1918 may prove to you and yours one of unalloyed happiness. In these days such a wish may seem impossible of achievement. Amidst the strife of nations and the world-wide clash of arms there must be anxiety and care for all who love their country, and the ‘petty pin-pricks’ which come to all who try to do their duty will no doubt try the temper and patience; but amidst all life’s worries the consciousness of duty done, of love for others, and the desire to do always what is right will bring _you_ that real peace and happiness which the world cannot give. That you may have this in 1918 and the years to follow is my earnest wish. With kind regards, “Yours sincerely, “FRED WINTER.”