He started a career in the French Navy, first as captain of a fireship and then in command of a frigate. On 10 May 1710 he sailed from La Rochelle as commander of a small fleet to attack Rio de Janeiro.
In the French Navy, he started his career by being captain of a fireship and then commanded a frigate. On May 10, 1710, he led a small fleet from La Rochelle with the goal of attacking Rio de Janeiro.