CHAPTER VII.

The Host of the Crusade invests Antioch--Description of that City--Difficulties and Errors of the Crusaders-- Improvidence--Famine--Spies--Desertions--Embassy from the Calif of Egypt--Succours from the Genoese and Pisans-- Battle--Feats of the Christian Knights--Boemond keeps up a Communication within the Town--The Town betrayed to the Christians--Massacres--Arrival of an Army from Persia--The Christians besieged in Antioch--Famine--Desertions--Visions-- Renewed Enthusiasm--Diminished Forces of the Christians-- Battle of Antioch--The Crusaders victorious--Spoils--Disputes with the Count of Toulouse--The Chiefs determine to repose at Antioch--Ambassadors sent to Alexius--Fate of their Embassy 136