CHAP. II.] ST. JOHN OH JERUSALEM. 143

sword and his two hundred English; and of sur-passing beauty likewise was their landing in Egypt,not unopposed—but what could withstand thegallantry of that body of Franks? Many of theirvessels had been driven by the storm into variousplaces along the coast, and chiefly Acre, where thetwo Grand Masters accused of being desirous ofpeace, and their Templars and Hospitallers, em-barked. In their first impetuous outset, Louis’van of invaders, without waiting for their country-men, or any one, had not only landed in the pre-sence of an enemy, but also put to flight the entireEgyptian army, commanded by a renowned general,and taken Damietta. Nearly incredible, but so itAvas, and a joyful day it must have been for theChristian slaves there; fifty-three of whom hadbeen in chains for tAventy-tAVO years . 1 And whenthe grand masters and “ the nerve of the Christianarmies” joined them, it was Avithin Damietta; sothat St. Louis in giving several of its best palacesto the militai’y orders, it was not a recompense forany late succours, but in anticipation of their futureutility, or as a tribute to the glorious reputationthey had long earned. But for the contrary Avindsit is likely St. Louis Avould have landed at Alex-andria, on the very spot where Bonaparte landed

1 Rothelin Chron.—Bib. Crois., i. 384.