(Claude), a French writer, in 1661, became a Jesuit in 1679, and died at Paris in 1737. There are many works of this author, which show deep penetration and accurate judgment; the principal of which is, "Un Cours des Sciences," &c. that is, a Course of Sciences upon principles new and simple, in order to form language, the understanding, and the heart, 1732, in folio. This collection includes an excellent "French grammar upon a new plan; a philo-philic and practical treatise upon eloquence; an art of poetry," which however is not reckoned the best part of this miscellany; "elements of metaphysics; an examination into vulgar prejudices; a treatise of civil society; and an exposition of the proofs of religion:" all full of reflections, just as well as new. He was the author of other works, in verse and prose, of which no great account is had; and it is remarkable, that his style in both is rather easy than accurate and correct, notwithstanding the precepts in his "grammar," which is really philosophic.