Deeds of the Franks, Book 7, Chapter 18

Our men had returned in triumph, going with God, and rejoicing about the triumph which they had on that day defeating our enemies, who were always overcome in all things, fleeing here and there, roaming and wandering, some to Corrozana, others went into the land of the Saracens. Moveover, our leaders, seeing that our enemies who remained in the city were dealing harshly with us and constraining us, watching day and night and plotting in what ways they would be able to harm us, held a meeting and said: "Before we lose our people, let us build a castle by the mosque that is before the city gate, where the bridge is, and perhaps there we will be able to discomfit our enemies." They all agreed and praised what seemed good to be done. The Count of St. Giles spoke first saying: "Be an aid to me for the building of the castle and I will fortify it and save it." Bohemond responded: "If you and the others wish it, I will go with you to the harbor of St. Simeon to carefully lead back men who are there, so that they can accomplish this work, the others who are about to remain should fortify themselves on all sides for the purpose of defense.

Therefore, the Count and Bohemond left for the port of St. Simeon. We, who remained, assembled in one spot, began construction of the castle, then the Turks prepared themselves there, and came out of the city to meet us in battle. Thus they rushed in against us and set our men to flight and killed many of our men, for which we were very sad.

Moreover on the next day, the Turks, seeing that our leaders were away and because they had left on previous day for the port, prepared themselves and went out to block those coming from the port. Then, seeing the Count and Bohemond coming and leading those people, soon they began to hiss and snarl and to shout with a most furious din, circulating around our men, throwing spears and launching arrows, wounding and cruelly beheading. For they attacked our men so bitterly that our men fled to the nearby mountain and wherever the way was open to flee. Any who were able quickly to disentangle themselves and escape, got out alive, those who were unable to flee were killed. There were on that day more than a thousand of our knights and foot soldiers martyred. We believe they ascended to heaven and received the white robe of martyrdom.

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