More than two million spectators

The number of spectators who crowded along the route of the flame, at the relay changes or at the arrival or departure of the laps to pay tribute to the Olympic ideal, is estimated at more than two millions. They did not come out of simple curiosity; the show was not long and was not, in fact, very "spectacular". The comments rarely expressed irony or mockery but generally a certain surprise mingled with respect.

"The flame is not applauded but is honoured by a respectful and fervent homage". This phrase was very popular with the journalists and showed the atmosphere which prevailed on the route. Spectators were seen to give the military salute and others respectfully uncovered their heads. At Seysses (Haute-Garonne) a full peal of bells was rung by order of the Mayor. At Nancy the flame arrived at 10.50pm A few moments earlier the fog had given place to icy conditions and there was skating on the Place Stanislas, and even this did not prevent a large crowd forming. All along the route the spectators waited in the less populated areas in the early hours of the morning or late at night, sometimes with a dressing gown thrown over a nightdress and a camera ready for action.

At Ornans (Doubs), Morez (Jura) the factories closed so that the workers could watch the flame passing. In most towns and villages the flame passed through, the school children were taken to watch by their teachers who had often devoted several lessons to the Olympic Games.

At Seix (Ariège) the entire village gathered; three hundred children followed the flame for a kilometre waving torches. In towns like Bordeaux and Pau the crowds were enormous and even the local authorities were surprised. Everywhere the young people were enthusiastic.

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