[Born at Nice, in Italy, 1758. Died in Paris, 1817. Aged 59.]
The French General whom Napoleon styled “The Child of Victory.” Entered
the French army as a private soldier, and in 1793 was General of
Division. Sharing in the brilliant campaigns of Napoleon, he was
distinguished by his irresistible impetuosity, clear penetration, and
military skill. In comprehensiveness of view, and in the formation of
those combinations on which the fate of battles depends, he was superior
to all his brother Marshals. He opposed Wellington in Portugal, and
conducted the admirable retreat of the French army. Personally, he was
avaricious, rapacious, cruel, and mean.
[From the marble in the Tuileries.]
279*. PIERRE CLAUDE FRANÇOIS DANNON. _Statesman and Writer._
[Born at Boulogne-sur-Mer, 1761. Died in Paris, 1840. Aged 79.]
Took an active part in the first French Revolution; but not proving
violent enough for the Jacobins, was sentenced to death. Regaining his
liberty, was appointed one of the Commissioners for drawing up the new
Constitution. Afterwards sent with others to Italy, to organize the
Roman Republic. On his return opposed the ascendancy of Napoleon, but
was subsequently made Archivist of the Empire. In 1830, restored to
offices, which he lost on the downfall of Buonaparte, and afterwards
created peer of France. Wrote much in the “Biographie Universelle,” and
in the “Histoire Littéraire.” Simple in manners, of unaffected modesty,
disinterested and benevolent.
[Bust to come.]
279**. PIERRE PAUL ROGER COLLARD. _Statesman and Philosopher._
[Born at Sourmepuis, in France, 1763. Died in Paris, 1845. Aged 82.]
At twenty called to the bar. Embraced the revolutionary principles, but
disgusted with the anarchy to which they led, withdrew to the more
peaceful pursuits of literature. Devoted himself to philosophy, and
sought to counteract the infidel tendencies of his age by a religious
spiritualism. Appointed by Napoleon Professor to the Normal School. At
the Restoration, re-entered the field of politics and made President of
the Chamber of Deputies. Retired again in 1830. Introduced into France a
system of philosophy analogous to that of Reid, the Scotch philosopher,
of whose works he recommended the study. As a politician, one of the
founders of the popular school known by the name of _Doctrinaires_,
which recognised certain principles as essential to all society, and
desired to render the actions of men conformable to them. A man of
perfect integrity. His interests never interfered with his duty, and he
left an honoured and unspotted name.
[Bust to come.]