Maximilien de Béthune
Maximilien de Béthune (1560-1611), Duc de Sully (Duke of Sully), was celebrated minister of Henry IV of France, born at the Château of Rosny, near Mantes, whence he was known at first as the Baron de Rosny. At first a ward of Henry IV of Navarre, he joined the Huguenot ranks along with him, and distinguished himself at Coutras and Ivry, and approved of Henry's policy in changing his colours on his accession to the throne, remaining ever after by his side as most trusted adviser, directing the finances of the country with economy, and encouraging the peasantry in the cultivation of the soil.He used to say, "Labourage et pasteurage, voilà les deux mamelles dont La France est alimentée, les vraies mines et trésors de Pérou," "Tillage and cattle-tending are the two paps whence France sucks nourishment; these are the true mines and treasures of Peru." On the death of the king he retired from court, and occupied his leisure in writing his celebrated "Memoirs," which, while they show the author to be a great statesman, give no very pleasant idea of his character.
Wisdom & Quotes
- The English take their pleasures sadly after the fashion of their country.
Francis Bacon