After the first explosion of the father's and the people's grief, the ransom of the prisoners became the topic.

It was a large sum, and rather difficult to raise; and, whilst it was being sought for, James de Helly returned to report as much to Bajazet, and to place himself once more in his power.

"Thou art welcome," said the sultan; "thou hast loyally kept thy word; I give thee thy liberty; thou canst go whither thou wiliest." Terms of ransom were concluded; and the sum total was paid through the hands of Bartholomew Pellegrini, a Genoese trader.

Before the Count of Nevers and his comrades set out, Bajazet sent for them.

"John," said he to the count through an interpreter, "I know that thou art a great lord in thy country, and the son of a great lord.