The speaker then traced the changeful epochs from the days
of the soldiers of the sword to the warriors of the pen, and he drew
forth loud applause as he alluded to the brave polemists who traced
their literary endeavors in the brave work of defending their country
and redeeming its liberties. In quoting Sir Geo. Cartier's well known
line, "O Canada, my country and my love," ("O Canada, mon pays, mes
amours,") the eloquent orator elicited the warm and hearty applause of
the assemblage. From the troublous days of 1837 to the present moment,
Mr. Lemay reviewed the various efforts at literary renown of the
French Canadian people, and concluded one of the finest speeches of
the evening amidst the tumultuous applause of his sympathising
auditors.
The next toast was that of the Literary and Historical Society and of
the Institut Canadien of Quebec.
Mr. J. M. LeMoine, in replying to the first part of the toast said: -
GENTLEMEN, - In the name of the Literary and Historical Society of
Quebec, I thank you cordially for the health just proposed - As the
President of a society numbering close on 400 members, who though
diverse in creed and language, are united for one common object - the
promotion of culture and science and the encouragement of historical
studies, - I cannot help feeling I stand here somehow in the character
of a representative man.
