(Claude), one of the best French critics and historians of his age, was born at Paris in 1640. He applied himself to the law, was made advocate for the parliament of Paris, and attended the bar nine years; he then entered into orders, and was made preceptor to the princes of Conti. In 1689, the king made him sub-preceptor to the dukes of Burgundy, Anjou, and Berry; and in 1706, when the education of these young princes was completed, the king gave him the priory of Argenteuil belonging to the Benedictines in the diocese of Paris. In 1716, he was chosen counsellor to Lewis XV. and died in 1721. He was the author of a great number of esteemed French works, the principal of which are, 1. An ecclesiastical history, in 20 volumes, the last of which ends with the year 1444. 2. The manners of the Israelites and Christians. 3. Institutions of ecclesiastical law. 4. An historical catechism. 5. On the choice and method of study. 6. The duties of masters and servants, &c.

(Andrew Hercules de), bishop of Frejus, preceptor to Lewis XV., grand almoner to the queen, cardinal, and minister of state, was born in 1653, and died in 1743. He was an able negociator; and distinguished himself during his ministry by his probity, his zeal for the happiness of his country, and his pacific disposition.