A nobler character than that of La Tour d'Auvergne could not be selected for a dramatic hero, and ancient times furnish posterity with no brighter example.

A letter from Carnot, then Minister of War, addressed to this distinguished soldier and admirable man, has pleased me so much that I give its substance: "On fixing my attention on the men who reflect honour on the army, I have remarked you, citizen, and I said to the First Consul--'La Tour d'Auvergne Corret, descendant of the family of Turenne, has inherited its bravery and its virtues.

One of the oldest officers in the army, he counts the greatest number of brilliant actions, and all the brave name him to be the most brave.

As modest as he is intrepid, he has shewn himself anxious for glory alone, and has refused all the grades offered to him.

At the eastern Pyrenees the General assembled all the companies of the grenadiers, and during the remainder of the campaign gave them no chief.