Baldwin I of Jerusalem of his blood", according to Albert of Aix, a contemporary historian of the First Crusade. Warner of Grez, Godfrey's most influential retainer took possession the Tower of David in Jerusalem to secure control of the town. Although Walter soon died, Geldemar Carpenel and Arnulf of Chocques sent a delegation to Baldwin, urging him to come to Jerusalem. To prevent Baldwin from seizing Godfrey's realm, Daimbert and Tancred sought assistance from Bohemond I of Antioch. Daimbert sent a letter to him, stating that Baldwin's rule would "bring about the downfall of the church and the destruction of Christianity itself", according to
Baldwin I of Jerusalem his homeland. The crusaders stopped at the frontier of Hungary in September. Godfrey left Baldwin in charge of his troops during his conference with Coloman, King of Hungary, regarding the conditions of the crusaders' march across the country. He agreed to hand over Baldwin, along with Baldwin's wife and retainers, as hostages to ensure their troops' good conduct. Baldwin and Godehilde were released soon after the crusaders left Hungary, and entered the Byzantine Empire in late November. The crusaders reached Constantinople on 23December 1096. The Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos demanded an oath of allegiance from their leaders and imposed