 In 1864, he joined the conflict in Mexico and became a captain in the 4th Mexican sharpshooters.Afterward, he was aide-de-camp to General the Viscount Courtois Roussel d'Hurbal.He served through the war, being in 11 battles, 32 minor engagements, and at the sieges of Oaxaca and Satillo; at the latter, he was made prisoner and sentenced to be shot, but was, instead, exchanged.