BALFOUR, Robert, a learned Scotchman, born about the year 1550, who was for many years principal of the Guienne College at Bordeaux. His principal work is his Commentary on the Logic and Ethics of Aristotle (Burdig. 1616-20, 2 tom. 4to), which is described by Dr Irving (Notes of the Scottish Writers) as uniting vigour of intellect with great extent and variety of learning. Balfour was one of the most learned men of the time, and is spoken of by Dempster as the "phoenix of the age," the "stay of his countrymen," and the "glory of his nation."