A GREAT MAN OF FRANCE.

Taihape Daily Times, 11 February 1919, Page 7

A GREAT MAN OF FRANCE.

When Clemeneeau appeared in the lobby of the French Senate after the signing of the armistice the follow-

ing scene, as described by the correspondent of the Associated Press occurred:—He was speedily surrounded by numbers of the senators ' who pressed forward to shake his hand. 'You are the saviour of France!" cried one. "No, no," replied the Premier shrugging his shoulders. "It is the country which has done everything itself." "Thanks to you" the senators rejoined. "No, I assure you" returned the premier. "I have done but my.simple duty. Any one of you who loves France would have done as much. There are moments when the spirit of itself rises within one." Here the premier's voice failed him. Overcome with emotion, tears coursed down his rugged countenance which so many violent storms in the past had left impassive. Becovering himself, he said: "Gentlemen, I thank you. I did not deserve so much honour as you have done me. Let me tell you that 1 am proudest you have associated my name with that of Marshal Foch. that great soldier who in the darkest hours' doubted the destiny of his country. He has inspired everyone with courage, and we owe him an infinite dobt." Fully master of himself now, the premier went on: "Gentlemen, we lare now coming to a difficult time It is harder to win pcae: than to win the war. We must so act that "France will resume the ]-)lace in the world of which she is worthy. More than ever must she gather herself up: more than '.n-or must she be disciplined and strong. I have confidence in her." Then, pushing his way through. the circle, the premier said: "Will you allow me to return to my task?"