Dictionary.net

A French journalist, humorist, and dramatist; born in Paris, May 26, 1839. From railroad operative he became editorial and sketch writer, contributing to the Rappel in 1872 under the pseudonym "Le Passant". A few years later appeared volumes of verse, "The Kisses" and "The Harem", which won general admiration. Humorous sketches-"Tales for Great Personages", "Pastime Stories", "The Weapons of Women", and others-extended his fame throughout France; and his plays, "The True Invalid"; "Bigondis" and "Midas" especially, have been very successful in Paris.