A contemporary writer, the
continuator of the history of William of Tyre, forcibly contrasts the
conduct of the crusaders before and after the capture. When the Latins
would take Constantinople they held the shield of God before them. It
was only when they had entered that they threw it away, and covered
themselves with the shield of the devil.
The Italians resident in Constantinople, who had returned to the city
with their countrymen, were conspicuous in their hostility to the
Greeks. Amid this resentment there were examples, however, that former
friendships were not forgotten. The escape of Nicetas himself is an
illustration in point. He had held the position of grand
logothete,[49] but he had been deposed by Mourtzouphlos. When the
Latins entered the city he had retired to a small house near Hagia
Sophia, which was so situated as to be likely to escape observation.
His large house, and probably his official residence, which he is
careful to tell us was adorned with an abundant store of ornaments,
had been burned down in the second fire. Many of his friends found
refuge with him, apparently regarding his dwelling as specially
adapted for concealment.
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