Canadian History in Verse

In the Opinion page article "Canada's Search for Identity," Feb. 26, the author refers to the ubiquitous "Je me souviens" emblazoned on every Quebec license plate, which is supposed to be the Quebec equivalent to "Remember the Alamo" in connotation.

It is my information that this is but one line of a three-line poem by Eugene Tache, a Quebecois of some note, and is carved into the stonework of the Quebec provincial parliament building. The poem reads: "Je me souviens/Que, ne sous le lys/Je fleuris sous la rose." The English translation is: I remember /that born under the lily [read Fleur de Lys or lilies of France]/I bloom under the rose [the rose of England]." Peter Porteous, Nepean, Ontario Appreciating an analogy

In the Opinion page column "Rossini and River Rouge," Feb. 26, the author compares the current triumphs and artistry of a young star rising on the music horizon with the American auto industry's open possibilities for a better and brighter future.

My thanks to the author for his ingenuity and enthusiasm to brighten and encourage man's inherent ability and potential for unlimited excellence and progress; for pointing out that where intelligence and commitment enhance the direction for any right action, success is certain and the rewards gratifying. Boyka Zivadinovich, Monterey, Calif. Origins of Chilean produce

Regarding the article "Chile's Produce Pleases US Palates," March 5: I wish the author had described how the produce is shipped to the United States. If the fish is fresh, how long is it in transit? How are the peaches shipped? Are they picked green? Do the grapes come over by air?

In the US the fruit doesn't taste as good as in Santiago, especially peaches, which appear to be picked green for shipment here. Walter C. Granville, Libertyville, Ill.