[Born at St. Hilaire D’Argat, in France, 1768. Killed at Marengo, in
Piedmont, 1800. Aged 32.]
A celebrated General of the French Republic. Brave, discreet, prompt,
intelligent, and energetic. Mainly contributed to Napoleon’s triumphs in
Egypt; and at Marengo, where he fell, his charge against the Austrians
contributed largely to the fate of the day. Napoleon considered Desaix
only second to himself, and said of him that “he thought only of glory;
and luxury, and even comfort he despised.” Mild yet decided in
character; and so just in his conduct as to have gained in Egypt the
name of “the Just Sultan.”
[From the marble in the Tuileries by Dejoux.]