“He is our enemy,” replied the Duke of Swabia. “My messenger who is at hand will tell you so. Tired of the long delay, I despatched an alert and trusty friend to get some news of your messengers. His speedy return proves that my assertion is correct.” All present turned their eyes to the door of the tent and saw a rider in light armor dismounting from his panting steed. Coming into the tent, he announced: “Isaac is faithless. Our messengers are chained in dungeons because the Emperor fears you are coming to take his empire from him. There is a multitude of his troops in the distance, who have followed me.” “His treachery is beyond all doubt,” exclaimed several of the princes. “Let us act accordingly,” said the Emperor, with great seriousness. “As we have not been notified of the dissolution of the alliance, we will go to Constantinople and settle matters. So long as the people do not manifest open hostility to us we will treat them as friends, but at the same time keep in readiness to protect ourselves if we be attacked.” “Let me lead the vanguard,” implored the Duke of Swabia. “You are too young and hot-headed,” said the Emperor. “There is double need for prudence and discretion in this emergency. Conrad, my old and tried friend, you shall lead. It will not be the first time you have been through the country, and you know the tricks which those people play at times, while pretending to be friends. You are cautious enough not to rush into unnecessary danger, and yet brave enough to protect yourself against any assault. Above all, I would fain not see Christian arrayed against Christian; but if it must be so, then we will clear the enemies of Christendom from the way with our good swords.” “I thank your Majesty,” replied Conrad, “for this unexpected honor, which I hardly ventured to ask in the presence of so many noble princes, renowned for their valor and good judgment. I will ask but one favor. Allow my sons to go with me.” “It is granted. And now to our work.” The council of war was ended. The vanguard left at once, and the remainder of the army followed at intervals. Conrad’s belief in Isaac’s treachery was confirmed at the very outset. He not only did not find the new bridges which should have been built, but the old ones had been purposely destroyed. The mountain passes were obstructed, and hordes of Bulgarians harassed the gallant little band on all sides with poisoned arrows. Several stragglers were killed, and one of the prisoners admitted that they had been employed and paid by Isaac for this shameful work.