became more and more desperate, the more so as the
new archbishop of Milan, Galdinus, unfolded a great activity in favor
of Alexander. The Pope named him apostolic legate for the whole of
Lombardy, and it was doubtless due to his influence that at this time
the Verona coalition formally joined the Lombard League.

Sixteen cities were now banded together against the Emperor, who
remained helpless in their midst. Pavia soon ceased to be a safe
refuge, and he retired to Novara and then to Vercelli; but both cities
were even then planning to join the confederation.

In the end Frederick prepared to leave Italy as a fugitive, and with
but a small train of followers. In Susa, where the road begins which
leads over the Mount Cenis pass, he was told that he must give up the
few remaining hostages he was leading with him. All exits were found
to be closed against him, and it came to his ear that an attempt was
to be made upon his life.

The Emperor fled from Susa disguised as a servant, while his
chamberlain, Hartmann of Siebeneichen, who bore him a striking
likeness, continued to play the part of captive monarch. A band of
assassins actually made their way into the royal chamber, but seem to
have spared the brave chamberlain on learning their mistake.

The real object of their attack was meanwhile hastening on toward
Basel, which he finally reached in safety.

It was to be expected that a man of Frederick's iron will would soon
return to avenge the humiliations he had suffered, and the League
hastened to strengthen itself in all directions. Alexander was invited
to take up his residence in their midst, and he, although obliged to
refuse, continued to work for the rebel cities. The latter showed
their gratitude by founding a new town, which was to be a common
fortress for the whole league, and naming it Alessandria in honor of
their ally. The citizens took an oath of fealty to the Pope and agreed
to pay him a yearly tax. The new foundation, although laughed at at
first by the imperialists and called Alessandria della Paglia, from
its hastily constructed straw huts, soon held a population of fifteen
thousand. It continues to-day to reflect credit on its sponsor.

Contrary to all expectations it was six years before Frederick
returned to Italy, and the Lombard League was meanwhile left master of
the field. This delay is undoubtedly ascribable to the fact that the
Emperor found it impossible at once to raise another army. The