When in the most beautiful and largest city in the southwest of France a year ago (Bordeaux), I learned, to my surprise, that the great philosopher and essayist, Montaigne, had been its mayor. And it is possible that generations hence the distinction of Mr. Gaynor as Mayor may be surpassed even by his fame as a philosopher. Certainly no man in public life to-day is writing in his everyday letters with such pungency and appeal on some of the problems of life, which continue to disturb mankind.
Address of Mayor William J. Gaynor
I am sure, said the Mayor, I am quite willing to say nothing and to write another letter. (Laughter and applause.) This is the third time I have greeted the delegation from France. Once was at the City Hall and the other time was at a luncheon at the Metropolitan Club. And I am very anxious to hear M. Hanotaux. The coming of these gentlemen will cause us to think a great deal about what we owe to France and to the French people.
You women, the Mayor added, with his eyes twinkling, might well consider the economy of the woman of France. She knows her market prices and she goes to market. (Laughter and applause.) I think if some of you will follow her example the cost of living will begin to come down right away. (Laughter.)
There never was a time, I believe, when in the hearts of the American people there was any danger of forgetting what we owe to France. (Applause.)
President Finley then presented the French delegation as follows:
And now, ladies and gentlemen, how shall I characterize to you the men who constitute this notable delegation? I wish I were able to do so in my own tongue as did Baron d’Estournelles de Constant so eloquently a few days ago in an acquired tongue,—to tell you how this great historian and statesman, Hanotaux, has, with an art which only a Greek or a Frenchman could command, gathered into this company men representing every high interest of France to carry this symbol of international good will to our Republic and affix it to our monument, in eternal memory of their countryman.
Two members of the French Academy, M. René Bazin and M. Lamy; a foremost representative of the art of France, M. Cormon; two members of Parliament, one already our well-beloved friend, Sénateur Baron d’Estournelles de Constant, and M. Louis Barthou; the great geographer, Vidal de la Blache; General Lebon; the riders of the sea and the riders of the air; and then, the representatives of two great families who have been especially distinguished in America’s service. What art of selection! I must, however, be content simply to name to you the speakers already so well introduced to you. I present first, M. Gabriel Hanotaux.
M. Hanotaux responded in French, but he supplied the following English version of his address.