Dictionary.net

An important French comedy-writer; born in Paris, May 5, 1815; died there, Jan. 23, 1888. Of over 100 comedies, vaudevilles, farces, etc., of his writing, almost all possessed strong qualities, including striking dialogue, caustic yet never cruel humor, and stage technique, while several were models of their kind. Among the best are: "The Italian Straw Hat" (1851); "The Misanthrope and the Auvergnat" (1853); "Eye Powder" (with Martin, 1862); "Celimare the Well-Beloved" (1863); "Cagnotte" (1864); "One Foot in Crime" (with Choler, 1866); etc. ("Dramatic Works", 10 vols., 1878-79.) He wrote a number of pieces in collaboration.