Diet of Besançon

According to Rahewin, Frederick was so successful in bringing peace to that kingdom, that he could have traveled its entire length almost unescorted.

Although limited in its official purpose, the diet attracted persons from throughout the Empire and also foreign dignitaries.

Rahewin lists Romans, Apulians, Tuscans, Venetians, Frenchmen, Englishmen and Spaniards.

Extoling Frederic, Rahewin states that "the whole world recognized him as the most powerful and most merciful ruler".

The letter so offended Duke Otto I of Bavaria that he threatened Roland with his sword until Frederick reminded him that the cardinals had a safeconduct.