mischance befall us also, and rather bethink ourselves how we may keep
both these lords in the host. Let the one on whom God shall bestow the
empire so devise that the other is well content; let him grant to that
other all the land on the further side of the straits, towards Turkey,
and the Isle of Greece, and that other shall be his liegeman. Thus
shall we keep both lords in the host."

As had been proposed, so was it settled, and both consented right
willingly. Then came the day for the parliament, and the parliament
assembled. And the twelve electors were chosen, six on one side and
six on the other; and they swore on holy relics to elect, duly, and in
good faith, whomsoever would best meet the needs of the host, and bear
rule over the empire most worthily.

68

Thus were the twelve chosen, and a day appointed for the election of
the emperor; and on the appointed day the twelve electors met at a
rich palace, one of the fairest in the world, where the Doge of Venice
had his quarters. Great and marvellous was the concourse, for every
one wished to see who should be elected. Then were the twelve electors
called, and set in a very rich chapel within the palace, and the door
was shut, so that no one remained with them. The barons and knights
stayed without in a great palace.

The council lasted till they were agreed; and by consent' of all they
appointed Nevelon, Bishop of Soissons, who was one of the twelve, to
act as spokesman. Then they came out to the place where all the barons
were assembled, and the Doge of Venice. Now you must know that many
set eyes upon them, to know how the election had turned. And the