Nothing was known of the king when I returned.

Indeed, I was the first bearer of any definite news concerning him since the day when he sailed from Acre.
Three weeks ago, as you may have learned, the news came that he is now detained in captivity by the emperor, who demanded his delivery by the Archduke John, into whose hands he first fell.

But where he is no one exactly knows.

The news has created an immense excitement in the kingdom, and all are resolved to sacrifice any of their treasures which may be demanded in order to satisfy the ransom which the recreant emperor has placed upon the king.

Shame is it indeed that a Christian sovereign should hold another in captivity.