Won By The Sword is a historical novel written by G. A. Henty. The book is set during the 17th century and follows the story of a young Englishman named Cyril Shenstone. Cyril is the son of a wealthy merchant and is sent to France to study at a Catholic seminary. However, Cyril's true passion lies in becoming a soldier, and he eventually joins the French army.As a soldier, Cyril finds himself embroiled in the political and military conflicts of the time, including the Thirty Years' War and the Franco-Spanish War. He fights bravely on the battlefield and rises through the ranks, eventually becoming a trusted advisor to the French king, Louis XIV.Throughout the book, Cyril faces many challenges, both on and off the battlefield. He must navigate the complex politics of the French court, deal with treacherous enemies, and confront his own personal demons.Won By The Sword is a thrilling and action-packed adventure story that combines historical accuracy with exciting fictional elements. It provides a vivid and immersive portrait of life in 17th century Europe, and is sure to appeal to fans of historical fiction and military history.De Malo was as anxious to bring on a general engagement as was his fiery opponent. He was kept well informed of what was going on in Paris, and knew that the king's death was imminent. His position on a plain, surrounded on all sides by woods and marshes with but one approach, and that through a narrow defile, was practically impregnable; and by occupying the defile he could have kept the French at bay without the slightest difficulty until Rocroi surrendered. He knew, too, that General Beck with a considerable force was hastening to join him; but he feared that prudent counsels might at the last moment prevail in the French camp, or that the news of the king's death might reach them, and he therefore left the defile open and allowed the French army to gain the plain and form up in order of battle facing him, without offering the slightest opposition or firing a single gun.This scarce antiquarian book is a facsimile reprint of the old original and may contain some imperfections such as library marks and notations. Because we believe this work is culturally important, we have made it available as part of our commitment for protecting, preserving, and promoting the world's literature in affordable, high quality, modern editions, that are true to their original work.