CERCLE FRANCAIS

Press, Volume LXXXV, Issue 25734, 21 February 1949, Page 2

CERCLE FRANCAIS

VISITORS ENTERTAINED One of the most successful gatherings sponsored by Cercle Francais was held at the Waldorf on Saturday evening when a reception was held in honour pf the French delegates who are attending the Pacific Science Congress in Christchurch. About 90 members and guests were welcomed by Mrs H. Honore, wife of the president, and Mr Gordon Troup, acting vicepresident, who introduced the visitors to members and their friends.

Two addresses were given in French. The first was a well-balanced, thoughtful review of the progress of science in France, delivered by Professor Jacob, president of the Academic des Sciences (Paris) and president of the Institute of France. The second speaker was Dr. Roger Heim, vice-president of the Institute of France and vice-president of the Alliance Francaise. the parent body of all cercles Francais in different parts of the world. He brought to the Christchurch cercle personal greetings from Mr Georges Duhamel, president of the Alliance Francaise. Dr. Heim compared the English spirit of resistance as exemplified in the Battle of Britain with the French spirit of resistance as exemplified at the Battle of the Marne in 1914 and the Resistance Movement from 1940 to 1945. The mark of the British resistance. he thought, was balance and solidity; that of the French resistance was intensity at critical moments. Dr. Heim also described some of his experiences in the Buchenwald concentration camp, where he was a prisoner for four years and where he met the now almost legendary figure, Pere Jacque. who did good work amongst the prisoners. A short musical programme was provided by Mr H. M. McCutcheon (violin solos). Mr Gerald Christeller (French songs), and Mrs Merle Carter (accompaniments). Mr John Parker thanked the speakers and aftists. Overseas guests present besides the sneakers included Dr. Bayen and Dr. Serene (Indo-China\. Dr. and Mrs Genin and Dr. Jacquier (Tahiti). Mr and Mrs Catala. Dr. Bugnicourt, Dr. Barrau, and Dr. Rouphier (Noumea).