The Doge of Venice, whose name was Henry Dandolo* and who was very wise
and very valiant, did them great honour, both he and the other folk,
and entertained them right willingly, marvelling, however, when the
envoys had delivered their letters, what might be the matter of import
that had brought them to that country. For the letters were letters of
credence only, and declared no more than that the bearers were to be
accredited as if they were the counts in person, and that the said
counts would make good whatever the six envoys should undertake.
[Note: That Henry Dandolo was a very old man is certain, but there is
doubt as to his precise age, as also as to the cause of his blindness.
According to one account he had been blinded, or all but blinded, by
the Greeks, and in a treacherous manner, when sent, at an earlier date,
on an embassy to Constaritinople-whence his bitter hostility to the
Greek Empire. I agree, however, with Sir Rennell Rodd that, if this had
been so, Villehardouin would scarcely have refrained from mentioning
such an act of perfidy on the part of the wicked Greeks. (See p. 41 of
Vol 1 of Sir Rennell Rodd’s _Princes of Achaia_.) It is hardly to be
imagined that he would keep the matter dark because, if he mentioned
it, people would think Dandolo acted throughout from motives of
personal vengeance. This would be to regard Villehardouin as a very
astute controversial historian indeed.]
So the Doge replied: “Signors, I have seen your letters; well do we
know that of men uncrowned your lords are the greatest, and they advise
us to put faith in what you tell us, and that they will maintain
whatsoever you undertake. Now, therefore, speak, and let us know what
is your pleasure.”
And the envoys answered: “Sire, we would that you should assemble your
council; and before your council we will declare the wishes of our
lords; and let this be tomorrow, if it so pleases you.” And the Doge
replied asking for respite till the fourth day, when he would assemble
his council, so that the envoys might state their requirements.
The envoys waited then till the fourth day, as had been appointed them,
and entered the palace, which was passing rich and beautiful; and found
the Doge and his council in a chamber. There they delivered their
message after this manner: “Sire, we come to thee on the part of the
high barons of France, who have taken the sign of the cross to avenge
the shame done to Jesus Christ, and to reconquer Jerusalem, if so be
that God will suffer it. And because they know that no people have such
great power to help them as you and your people, therefore we pray you
by God that you take pity on the land overseas and the shame of Christ,
and use diligence that our lords have ships for transport and battle.”
“And after what manner should we use diligence?” said the Doge. “After
all manners that you may advise and propose,” rejoined the envoys, “in
so far as what you propose may be within our means.” “Certes,” said the
Doge, “it is a great thing that your lords require of us, and well it
seems that they have in view a high enterprise. We will give you our
answer eight days from to-day. And marvel not if the term be long, for
it is meet that so great a matter be fully pondered.”