They care very little for Constantinople, although they form part of the empire.
Constantinople taxes them heavily, and is too weak to afford them protection.

Of course they are Greeks, but the Greeks of the islands have very little in common, beyond their language, with the Greeks of Constantinople.

They see, too, that the Turks are increasing in power, and they know that, if they are to be saved from falling into the hands of the Moslem, it is Venice or Genoa who will protect them, and not Constantinople, who will have enough to do to defend herself.
"As to themselves, they would naturally prefer Venice, because Venice is a far better mistress than Genoa; but of course, when the Genoese get a footing, they spread lies as to our tyranny and greed, and so it comes that the people of the islands are divided in their wishes, and that while we are gladly received in some of them, we are regarded with hate and suspicion in others." Trade at once began, and continued until evening.
"How long do you expect to stay here, captain ?" Francis asked.
"That must depend upon the wind.

It may go down tomorrow, it may continue to blow strong for days, and it is no use our attempting to work down to Candia until it changes its direction.

I should hope, however, that in a day or two we may be off.