Soldiers,
For two months and more you have been fighting for the most just of causes: your homes and national independence.
You have held the enemy's armies, sustained three sieges, executed several sorties, and successfully carried out a long retreat through a narrow defile.
So far, you have been alone in this tremendous struggle. Now you are at the side of the valiant French and British Armies.
It is your duty to uphold the reputation of our arms with that spirit of tenacity and bravery of which you have given so many proofs. Our national honour is at stake.
Soldiers,
Look on the future with confidence, and fight with courage.
In whatever positions I place you, look ahead, and consider as a traitor to the Motherland whoever speaks of retreat, without the formal order having been given.
The time has come for us, with the aid of our powerful allies, to drive the enemy from our dear country, which they invaded in contempt of their word and of the sacred rights of a free people.
(Signed) Albert.