Napoleon Bonaparte Internet Guide - Reports on the trial and death of Labedoyere

Back to main Index

THE YANKEE
Boston, Friday, October 13, 1815

REPORTS ON THE TRIAL AND DEATH OF LABEDOYERE

From the Official Gazette of Paris

August 16-23

The Paris papers of the 15th (Tuesday) including the Official Gazette of that date, arrived this morning. Col. Labedoyere has been tried, found guilty of Treason and Rebellion, and condemned to death.

Paris, August 19

At the moment the King was ascending his carriage at 4 o'clock this day, Madame de Labedoyere threw herself at his feet to solicit pardon for her husband. The King answered that if M. Labedoyere had only offended him, his pardon should be granted; but that all France called for the punishment of the man who had brought upon it all the horrors of war. His Majesty was very much affected, and it was to be seen how much he suffered from being obliged to resist the impulse of his heart. The King, who knows how to unite goodness and justice, deigned to promise Madame Labedoyere his protection for her and her infant.

August 20

Yesterday evening Col. Labedoyere arrived on the spot designed for execution, where he fell on his knees and received the blessing of the confessor who accompanied him; after which he rose, and without waiting for the bandage being placed over his eyes, bared his bosom to the veterans who were appointed to shoot him, and cried out -- "Surtout ne me manquez pas" (Mind, do not miss me.) In a moment after he was no more.

August 26

Colonel La Bedoyere has been condemned to die, by the Second Council of War of the First Military Division. This decree was confirmed by the Council of Revision, and the Colonel was accordingly executed this day a 6 o'clock P.M.

Boston, October 13, 1815

Labedoyere, during his trial said he was a native of Paris; was a Lt. Col. In the 7th regiment of the line, an officer of the Legion of Honor, and a Knight of the Iron Crown, aged 29. His trial excited much sensibility; and he appears to have met his fate with fortitude. He has left an amiable wife, a promising son, and very respectable connections.

Back to Article index

INDEX

-Napoleon Bonaparte Internet Guide-
optimized for browsers 4+ (600x800)