FREEDOM SYMBOL.

Auckland Star, Volume LXXI, Issue 215, 10 September 1940, Page 8

FREEDOM SYMBOL.

THE MARSEILLAISE. FRENCHMEN RALLYING. After the singing of the National Anthem and the "Marseillaise" at the Auckland French Club last evening the president, Mr. A. Thomson, remarked that the "Marseillaise" might now be considered the marching song of Free France. It was unlikely that the singing of it would be permitted in fettered France, though it would still be pulsing in the hearts of thousands. There was evidence that the avalanche which had swept over France had not submerged the spirit of the French people, he said. This stirring 6ong, which had long been a national inspiration—a clarion call in impending disaster, a paean of praise in the hour of triumph—was once more sending forth its vibrant appeal in time of dire need, an appeal which would not go unanswered. In the outposts of empire men were rallying to the call. Though the homeland had suffered a staggering blow and was languishing under the heel of the oppressor, it was inconceivable that such a nation should be swept out of existence overnight. A nucleus of resistance had been formed and was inevitably drawing to itself an increasing number of the nation's finer spirits, -to whom liberty was. as the breath of life. This body represented the real France, the undaunted Gallic soul, and its example gave cause to believe that the nation would, in the end, emerge triumphant from its ordeal. Musical items were given by Miles. Nance Vonn, R. Francis, G. Blott and B. McLardie. A play, "Manu Militari," was staged by Mile. W. Calderwood, Miles. M. Harnett, M. Hutchison, Messrs. C. Yockney, P. Egan and A. Thomson.