Visit of the French President to Havre.

Manawatu Herald, 27 June 1895, Page 3

Visit of the French President to Havre.

(from our own correspondent.) Paris, Ist May, 1895. The great event of this fortnight wai the visit of M. Faurt to Havre, and one of the most pleasing features o! this voyage was the hearty reception recorded to the President on board her Majesty's cruiser Australia, which went especially to Havre to a friendly welcome to M . Faure. M. Faure was taken on board the cruiser in company with several officers and Ministers. He was received by Captain Acland, and, on reaching the upper deok, was saluted by the British GonsuUGeneral at Havre and the officers of the vessel, the crew simultaneoualy.pceaenting arms. Certain Acland formally invited the Resident to inspect the vessel and then proceeded to show the visitors rounff. At the close.. of the inspections, Captain A«land conducted the Preii-

dent to his quarters, where M. Faure graciously accepted a glass of champagne. Captain Acland, glass in hand, said : " I hope that our visit and our salute of the elected chief of the great French Republio will Bhow that we English have deep faeliogi of friendship and cordiality for France, and that we desire that these feelings shall continue for ever." M. Faure replied : "I am touched by the courtesy of the British Government in sending the Australia to Havre to salute me on the occasion of this visit." "When the President was abont to leave the Australia, the band of the French cruiser Jean-Bart, which was lying a short distance off, commenced playing " God Save the Queen." On hearing the strains M. Faure stopped for a few seconds in a listening attitude, with his head uncovered, whilst the French and English sailors gave the military salute. As the President left the Australia the officers of the cruiser called for cheers for him, which were heartily given. Afterwards the Jean Bart was visited, and at night the President attended the gala performance at the Grand Theatre, Captain Acland and the British Consul-Gene-ral, at M. Faure's request having seats in the Presidential box.