The Pope is angered at the attack of these Christian cities by a Crusader army.

Dandolo is now the true war leader of this Crusade, with Boniface as only a figurehead.

Alexios Angelos has made many promises to the Crusaders and their principal financier for riches and honors if they would help him reclaim his kingdom.

Dandolo placates the Pope by having Alexios Angelos promise to submit the Orthodox Church to Rome when he is restored to his throne in Constantinople.

This being done, the fleet sets sail for Constantinople, entering the Bosporus on June 23 with the aid of a Venetian fleet.

The personality of the Doge stands out vividly in the accounts of the chroniclers.

Although quite old, he is always found in the front line.

At the assault of Constantinople he stands in the bow of his galley, completely armed and with the gonfalon of St. Mark's in front of him, encouraging his men as they make their landing.

Constantinople falls on July 17.

Alexios III is deposed and forced to flee with what treasure he can collect, escaping to Thrace.