Page:A History of the Knights of Malta, or the Order of St. John of Jerusalem.djvu/446

414 be carried on, as during its progress he was freed from all hostility on the part of the emperor.

His daring deeds Shad raised for him a host of friends amongst the fiery spirits who dwelt in Malta. From some of these he received an invitation, whilst his parleying with the emperor was still continuing, to present himself once more in their island, pledging themselves that he should not again receive an inhospitable rebuff. Strozzi had now become very desirous of once more entering the ranks of the Order. He trusted that from his celebrated name and high interest he might one day attain to the supreme dignity. He therefore promptly accepted the invitation, and again presented himself off the harbour. The Grand-Master had by this time become acquainted with the overtures of Charles to the Florentine. He also knew how warmly Leo was respected by the knights, and therefore no longer refused him readmission into the fraternity; but, on the contrary, welcomed him into its ranks with every possible honour. The extreme ability of Strozzi was now freely displayed for the benefit of his confrères, and by his judicious counsels and suggestions he rendered them the greatest possible assistance.

In conjunction with two other knights, he was appointed to inspect and report upon the state of the fortifications, and to suggest such additions as might be considered necessary for the complete security of the island. The commissioners pointed out that, although the Bourg was enclosed by a rampart and ditch, it was, nevertheless, commanded by the rocky extremity of the peninsula of St. Julian, which ran parallel to that on which stood the castle of St. Angelo. They therefore strongly urged the necessity of establishing a fort on this promontory of sufficient capacity to hold a considerable garrison. Mount Sceberras also required occupation, in order to deny to an enemy the use of the harbour on the other side, called the Marsa Musceit, or Muscetto. Their recommendations on this head included the occupation of the entire peninsula, but the funds in the treasury did not admit of so extensive a work. Forts were, however, erected at the extremity of each promontory, that on Mount Sceberras being called St. Elmo, and that on the peninsula of St. Julian, St.