Ferdinando Francesco D Avalos, marquis of Pescara, an Italian general of Charles V., born in Naples in 1490, died in Milan, Nov. 4, 1525. His ancestors came from Spain to Naples in the middle of the 15th century. In early childhood he was affianced to Vittoria Colonna, who was then only four years old, and he married her while he was still a mere lad. He distinguished himself at the battle of Ravenna, where he was wounded and captured. While in prison he dedicated to his wife a poem entitled "Dialogue of Love." Ransomed through the influence of a favorite of Louis XII., he distinguished himself at the battle of Vicenza in 1513; at Milan, which city he took from the French in 1521; and at Como, which he sacked contrary to his promise. In 1522 he took an active part against the French at Pavia, La Bicocca, and Lodi, and brought about the capitulation of Piz-zighettone and Cremona, and the capture and sacking of Genoa. The decisive victory over Francis I. at Pavia (Feb. 24, 1525) was chiefly ascribed to the valor of Avalos, who was wounded, and received the congratulations of friends and foes.

He was made generalissimo, but became unpopular because, after having joined the league of the duke of Milan for the expulsion of the Spaniards and Germans from Italy, he subsequently betrayed the scheme to Charles V. The crown of Naples, however, which was offered to him by the Italian princes in reward of his treachery, he refused by the advice of his wife.