He was the only known jester who led an active political and military life; he was allowed to carry a rapier, and he was also known for his skill with the blade.
This is how John L. Motley in his work History of the United Netherlands From the Death of William the Silent to the Twelve Years' Truce, 1609 describes his death during the campaign of 1591 of Henry IV against the army of Catholic League, 'They [i.e. Leaguers] were closely followed by Henry at the head of his cavalry, and lively skirmishes were of frequent occurrence.
That he, a chieftain of the Holy League, the long-descended scion of the illustrious house of Lorraine, brother of the great Duke of Mercœur,[2] should become the captive of a Huguenot buffoon, seemed the most stinging jest yet perpetrated since fools had come in fashion.
The famous Chicot, who was as fond of a battle as of a gibe, and who was almost as reckless a rider as his master, proved on this occasion that the cap and bells could cover as much magnanimity as did the most chivalrous crest.
Although desperately wounded in the struggle which had resulted in his triumph, he generously granted to the count his freedom without ransom.