On his way to Padua, to complete his studies at the university, he was attacked by robbers, who left him for dead.

He recovered, however, and went to Padua.

He became an accomplished scholar; but was so fond of gambling that he lost every penny, and was obliged to escape from his creditors by flight.

For five years he wandered over Italy, taking part in all sorts of adventures, and then suddenly returned to Venice, and was persuaded by his friends to proceed to Patras, where his stall was now vacant.
When he arrived there, he found the city besieged by the Turks.

In spite of his clerical dignity, he placed himself in the front rank of its defenders, and distinguished himself by extreme bravery.