Having retired temporarily from business in 1894, he gave up his time almost entirely to stamps, became a member of the "Societe Philatelique Francaise", and was most regular in his attendance at its meetings. In 1898 he was elected President of the "Societe Francaise de Timbrologie". From 1898 to 1900 he was also editor of the "Revue Philatelique Francaise". In February, 1898, he brought forward a scheme for an International Philatelic Exhibition, to be held simultaneously with the Exposition Universelle in 1900, and secured its adoption by the Society, being appointed, the general secretary. After two years' hard work he had the satisfaction of seeing the fruit of his labours, and the opening of the Exhibition at the appointed time was his reward. An additional recompense was the honour of being made "Officier d'Academie", which was conferred upon him on the opening day by M. Mougeot, Under-Secretary of State for Posts and Telegraphs.