And the trumpets sound, and every
galley takes a transport in tow, so as to reach the other side more
readily. None ask who shall go first, but each makes the land as soon
as he can. The knights issue from the transports, and leap into the
sea up to their waists, fully armed, with helmets laced, and lances in
hand; and the good archers, and the good sergeants, and the good
crossbowmen, each in his company, land so soon as they touch ground.
38
The Greeks made a goodly show of resistance; but when it came to the
lowering of the lances, they turned their backs, and went away flying,
and abandoned the shore. And be it known to you that never was port
more proudly taken. Then began the mariners to open the ports of the
transports, and let down the bridges, and take out the horses; and the
knights began to mount, and they began to marshal the divisions of the
host in due order.
CAPTURE OF THE TOWER OF GALATA
Count Baldwin of Flanders and Hainault, with the advanced guard, rode
forward, and the other divisions of the host after him, each in due
order of march; and they came to where the Emperor Alexius had been
encamped. But he had turned back towards Constantinople, and left his
tents and pavilions standing. And there our people had much spoil.
Our barons were minded to encamp by the port before the tower of
Galata, where the chain was fixed that closed the port of
Constantinople.
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