After reading all the pertinent data concerning this snub, I retract my opinion that the action was an unfortunate oversight on the part of some minor clerk in France.  I'd forgotten that Ms France is for sale to the highest bidder, that Ms France sells her charms to anyone and everyone, that La France discards lovers and friends with the change of seasons and that She never apologizes for her crude, crass and thoughtless behavior.  Why expect any manners from the "lady" under the red street light?