RAVAILLAC

From Agepedia

RAVAILLAC, Francis, the murderer of Henry IV of France, born at Angouleme in 1578, pursued the practice of law, and, at the same time, instructed the children of his native place. His naturally gloomy disposition degenerated into a wild fanaticism, when he began to meddle in reli try. vmea witn natrea or me new doctrines, he became accustomed to consider the good and humane Henry as the archenemy of the church, to destroy whom would be a meritorious work. May 14, 1610, he succeeded in his purpose. (See Hemnj IV.) He was seized, condemned to death, and underwent his sentence on the 27th of May. He died under the severest torments of more than an hour's duration, which he endured with tranquillity, as he had done the rack, and without betraying any especial repentance, or naming any accomplices.