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, Latin Emperor who interpreted and observed his crusading vows strictly, and the most popular leader in the host. With Venetian support he was elected on 9 May 1204, and crowned on 16 May in the Hagia Sophia at a ceremony which closely followed Byzantine practices. During his coronation, Baldwin wore a very rich jewel that had been bought by Byzantine Emperor Manuel I Komnenos for 62,000 silver marks. Baldwin's wife Marie, unaware of these events, had sailed to Acre. There she learned of her husband's election as emperor, but died in August 1204 before she could join him. The Latin Empire was