The daredevil but rash field commander saw his only chance for social advancement in military successes. Musically gifted, he attended numerous salons, composed, and played music. In 1806, during the war against France, he spent the night before the first encounter with French troops at Heidecksburg Castle and gave a piano concert. The next day, despite unfavorable circumstances, he launched an attack. The attack failed with heavy losses, and the prince fell.
