"Soon after the Emperor of German's journey to Constantinople and the Holy Land, nearly twenty years ago, the whole French nation was convulsed over an issue of Le Rire which purported to reveal the private travel notes of the Kaiser on what he termed his divine mission. ... In view of the demand of the itinerary only a single performance will be given in each locality. ... As France and Germany were at this time theoretically at peace, a mild attempt made by the French Government to suppress the issue; but every one secured a copy and the laugh was general at the kaiser's expense. ... In these times of stress, a little relaxation may not be amiss, and in that spirit, this translation of Le Rire is published."

Translated from an issue of le Rire published "soon after the Emperor of Germany's journey to Constantinople and the Holy Land, nearly twenty years ago."