Le Camus, Etienne

Le Camus, Etienne a French prelate and theologian, was born at Paris, November 24, 1632, of an ancient family in the magistracy. He became doctor of the Sorbonne in 1650; — and almoner of the king, Louis XIV, while still a minor. He was appointed bishop of Grenoble in 1671, and from that time a great change took place in his life. He was indulgent to the faults of others, and gave an example of charity, modesty, and piety. In 1686 Louis XIV demanded the hat of the cardinal for M. de Harlay, archbishop of Paris. Innocent XI not liking this prelate, sent the Roman purple to Le Camus. This irritated Louis XIV, and he called for the new cardinal, wishing to reproach him, but the bishop of Grenoble disarmed him by his pleasantry. Le Camus left-all his goods to the poor of his diocese. He founded two seminaries, one at Grenoble, the other at St. Martin de Misere, and several establishments of charity. He died at Grenoble, September 12, 1707. For mention of his works, see Hoefer, Nouv. Biog. Generale, s.v.