Malapetzes, defender of Otranto with Russian and Varangian troops, had a niece whose fine old house abutted on to the walls of the city. He did not realise it was a security hazard. The Norman count attacking Otranto [Geoffrey of Taranto?], following several failed attempts at capture, got in touch with Malapetzes' niece, sent her gifts, and promised to marry her if she allowed troops into the city through her house. She succumbed to desire, and let them into the city with ropes during he night. Malapetzes left Otranto, abandoning his wife and children to the Normans