Who is Frederic De Maurepas from Red Prophet and what is their importance?

Frederic is a young Comte who believes that waiting for Napoleon to arrive is the greatest humiliation he could possibly suffer. He sees Canada as a repository for the dregs of French society. He wishes that La Fayette had managed to stay in France long enough to attain a posting with more elegance where they could face a civilized enemy. Frederic is feeling the personal humiliation of his exile to Canada. To make matters worse, he is now expected to greet Napoleon Bonaparte, the French general sent by King Charles to ensure Canada's triumph over America. He was sent to Detroit and secretly hopes to unseat La Fayette from his position of power in Niagara.