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Retz (RAIS or RAIZ GILLES DE)

RAIS, or RAIZ, GILLES DE, a French military officer, infamous for his crimes; was a Breton of high rank, who distinguished himself under Charles VII. in the struggle with the English, fighting by the side of the Maid of Orthe leans. He was made Marshal of France in 1420, and soon after retired to his estates, where for over 10 years he is alleged to have indulged in the most infamous orgies, having kidnapped or enticed to his castle as many as 150 children, who were sacrificed as victims to his abnormal cruelty. He was executed at Nantes, Oct. 26, 1440, after trial and confession.