There was a great deal of fighting in his young days, and he had acquired a reputation for courage and skill.

To these qualities he owed his fortune.

M.de Nemours was his first patron, and, in a duel which he had with M.de Beaufort, took Villars for second.

M.de Nemours was killed; but Villars was victorious against his adversary, anal passed into the service of the Prince de Conti as one of his gentlemen.

He succeeded in gaining confidence in his new employment; so much so, that the marriage which afterwards took place between the Prince de Conti and the niece of Cardinal Mazarin was brought about in part by his assistance.