Conrad instantly declared that Sibylla's sister
Eliza was the only rightful heir, and, as he held every step toward
advancement to be laudable, did not for a moment scruple to elope with
her from her husband, to marry her himself, and to lay claim to the
crown.
Amid all this confusion and disaster the eyes of the crusaders turned
with increasing anxiety toward the horizon, to catch a glimpse of the
sails which were to bring to them two fresh leaders, the kings of
France and of England. Their preparations had not been very rapid.
Henry II of England had, even since his oath, got into a new quarrel
with Philip Augustus of France, which only ended with his death, in
1189. His son and successor, Richard, whose zeal had led him to put up
the cross earlier than the rest, instantly began to arrange the
expedition with Philip. In his impetuous manner he exulted in the
prospect of unheard-of triumphs; the government of England was hastily
and insufficiently provided for during the absence of the King; above
all, money was needed in great quantities, and raised by every
expedient, good or bad. When someone remonstrated with the King
concerning these extortions, he exclaimed, "I would sell London
itself, if I could but find a purchaser.
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