Evening Republican, Volume 21, Number 143, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 July 1917 — DEATH OF CHEVALIER BAYARD [ARTICLE]

DEATH OF CHEVALIER BAYARD

Gallant French Knight Met End. Heroically While Leading Fight Against Traitor's Army. It was on April 30, 1524, that the Chevalier Bayard was killed in battle. His end was characteristic, Engaged in a campaign in northern Italy, where the imperial army under the traitor, De Bourbon, was pressing hard upon the retreating French troops, Bayard was asked to take the command and save the army. “It is too late,” he said, “but my soul is God’s and my life is my country’s.” Then putting himself at the head of a body of men at arms, he held the enemy at bay until struck down by a ball. He was thrown from his horse, but refused to retire, saying that he had never shown his back to the enemy. He was placed against a tree, facing the advancing host. In the want of a cross he kissed his sword, and because of the absence of a priest he confessed to his inaitre d’hotel. When De Bourbon came up and expressed regret at seeing him In such condition, he said: “Weep for yourself, sir. For me, I have nothing to complain of; I die In the course of my duty to my country. You triumph in betraying yours; but your successes are horrible and the end will be sad.” Having uttered these words the gallant knight died and was burled by his enemy on the field with military honors. .