Vergniaud

(Pierre Victurnien), French Giron dist orator, b. Limoges, 31 May, 1759. He studied law, and became an advocate. Elected to the Legislative A embly in 1791, he also became President of the Convention. At the trial of the King he voted for the appeal to the people, but that being rejected, voted death. With Gensonné and Guadet, he opposed the sanguinary measures of Robes pierre, and, being beaten in the struggle, was executed with the Girondins, 31 Oct. 1793. Vergniaud was a brilliant speaker. He said: “Reason thinks, Religion dreams.” He had prepared poison for himself, but as there was not enough for his comrades, he resolved to suffer with them.