11 May 1917. The New York Times

Non-fiction

Project 1917 is a series of events that took place a hundred years ago as described by those involved. It is composed only of diaries, letters, memoirs, newspapers and other documents

The New York Times

When Marshal Joffre, by the side of Governor Whitman, stepped into a box fronting the stage, at the Metropolitan Opera House last night, the great audience swept to its feet, forgetting that Paderewski was playing a masterpiece. The Marshal, with a wide sweep of his right hand, saluted, as his allies and admirers cheered and sang the "Marseillaise."

Marshal Joffre said: “Ladies and gentlemen: I am deeply grateful for all the greetings, for all the smiles, and for all the cheers that you have manifested here tonight; but I must take them not as an expression to me personally, but as a tribute from you to the fighting army in France. If the soldiers of my beloved country could know of this great spontaneous outburst of affection and patriotism on the part of the people of this great city, they would receive new inspiration and stimulation. I say now and gain ‘Long live the United States! Long live the City of New York!”

Joffre remained in the box while the Metropolitan chorus sang “God Save the King” and “Hymn Garibaldi” and Mme. Louise Homer sang “The Star-Spangled Banner.” It was one of the most inspiring scenes the Opera House ever saw when Mme. Homer, after singing the first verse of the national anthem, stepped to the front of the stage, waved the flag, and the tremendous audience joined in with a feeling that made Marshal Joffre almost drop his cap applauding. As the song was finished the audience by a common impulse turned to look at the distinguished guest; he saluted, waved his hand, and applauded again. The General left with his military aide after remaining thirty minutes.

The affair last night was arranged under the Marshal Joffre Tribute Committee; the receipts, exceeding $86,000 will be turned over him today for the French war orphans. The presentation will be made at the Frick home.

Viviani wasn’t there, Colonel Roosevelt didn’t speak, and Caruso didn’t sing, and the program in other respects went awry, but Joffre was what the people went for.

Former Governor Hughes was present and sat in the box with General Joffre, but Mr. Hughes did not make a speech.

The seats last night sold from $3 for the upper gallery to $25 for the orchestra seats, the boxes selling for $1,000 each.

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