"When he was born into the world," said Alva, "he was born a soldier," and the Emperor confirmed the statement and reciprocated the compliment, when he declared that "the three first captains of the age were himself first, and then the Duke of Alva and Constable Montmorency." It is quite true that all his officers were not of the same opinion, and many were too apt to complain that his constant presence in the field did more harm than good, and "that his Majesty would do much better to stay at home." There is, however, no doubt that he was both a good soldier and a good general.

He was constitutionally fearless, and he possessed great energy and endurance.

He was ever the first to arm when a battle was to be fought, and the last to take off his harness.

He commanded in person and in chief, even when surrounded by veterans and crippled by the gout.

He was calm in great reverses.