1552. Francis Xavier died; a French missionary, denominated the apostle of the Indies. He was one of the most zealous disciples of Ignatius Loyola; performed his mission in Hindostan, the Moluccas, and Japan, and was on the point of landing in China, when he died.
1554. Ferdinand Cortes, the conqueror of Mexico, died, aged 63, leaving a character eminent for bravery and ability, but infamous for perfidy and cruelty.
1581. John Dee, an English mathematician and sorcerer, died. He was a man of uncommon abilities, learning and application, but deluded himself with experiments in the occult sciences, which he continued till he reached the age of 80.
1594. Gerard Mercator, a Dutch mathematician, died. He was self-educated, but attained great eminence, and published numerous valuable maps and charts which he engraved and published himself, and which have been of great use to his successors.
1615. Lewis de Berthon de Crillon, a French general and knight, died. He distinguished himself by his valor at the siege of Calais, at the age of 15, and during
a long series of wars and perilous times displayed so much courage as to acquire the title of the brave Crillon.
1723. Philip, duke of Orleans, regent of France during the minority of Louis XV, died at Versailles in the 50th year of his age. He was a man of talent and political tact, but these qualities were much obscured by his love of pleasure.
1779. Alexander Albani died; a Roman cardinal and a man of great merit.
1784. Francis Arnaud died; abbot of Grand Champs, in France, and distinguished by his literary labors.
1789. Herschell announced the discovery of a 7th satellite to Saturn.