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| Official Journal of the French Empire Wednesday 1 December 1869 (n°330 p1535) |
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| The journey of the princes and countless other visitors who had
come here to take part in the inauguration of the canal was over.
It had been to everyone’s great satisfaction. Even if there was
room for improvement in this great human achievement, like in
all human achievements, everyone clearly understood that a magnificent
result had been obtained. The obstacles had been surmounted and despite the particular difficulties which the terrain had raised against the invincible energy of the project’s promoter, the desert which once separated the Mediterranean from Suez has now been transformed into an area crossed by a large canal, enlivened by three important towns - Port Said, Ismailia and Suez - and refreshed by two large inshore lakes Lake Timsah and the Bitter Lakes with the encampments, working sites and villages dotted around them. Human industry has given life to these sunburnt regions. They now serve as thoroughfares to vessels from all over the world. Everyone has understood the commercial and historic importance of this international work. This is why so many sovereigns and princes came to the inauguration as representatives of their people and to enjoy the Khedive’s sumptuous hospitality, and a similar number of scholars, artists and those who were simply curious came from all races and countries, eager to be part of this great event. It was the majesty itself of the celebration of peace, industry and civilisation that spoke to people’s hearts. France, in particular, had a right to be proud: she had always been in favour of this work and it was directed by one of her children. Proof of this constant encouragement is amply given by the fact that so august a sovereign as the Empress Eugénie desired to be present at the inauguration of an enterprise which brings civilisation to the world and betters our relationship with the Orient. The Empress left Egypt with the wonderful memory of the reception she received and the people were left with a lasting impression of her grace and kindness. Her visits to Turkey and Egypt were but a series of ovations, as much to her as to France and the Emperor who she represented with dignity during these memorable ceremonies. |
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