[Born 1543. Died 1626. Aged 83.]
When nineteen years of age, a simple archer; but, by dint of great
bravery, activity, and success, he shortly became chief of the
Protestant party in France. In 1575, appointed commander of the
Protestant army in the place of Montbrun; performed great feats of arms
in Dauphiny and Provence, and helped, more than any other soldier of his
time, to place Henry IV. upon the throne. After the death of Henry, the
religious convictions of Lesdiguières underwent a remarkable change. He
was converted to Romanism,--some say, by the persuasive powers of a
missionary; others, by the dazzling office of Lord High Constable of
France, offered on condition that he abjured his faith. It is certain
that he had a lust of power and wealth, and was unscrupulous in the
means of getting them. Yet he had great qualities. He was generous and
forgiving. He was conqueror in every battle he fought. Our own Elizabeth
was heard to say that “had there been two Lesdiguières in France, she
would have begged one from the king.” He was indeed a man after her own
great heart; for he was brave, handsome, active, full of resources, and
always successful.