Roussel de Bailleul, who had been held in prison by Michael VII in the capital, tried to escape to Lampe to join Nikephoros Botaneiates. He failed, and was returned to prison. But Michael had been reminded of his usefulness, and in the current crisis was compelled to seek his help: he set him free, forgave him for previous actions, made promises, and offered him gifts and honours. He first sent him to the walls to test the loyalty of Franks supporting Ioannes Bryennios, with no success. But later when Bryennios was camped in a poorly-defended position at Athyras, Michael met Roussel in the church at Blachernai and received from him the most sollemn oaths of loyalty. He then sent him against Athyras, in command, with Alexios (I), of his Varangian troops and any others he could gather. Alexios and Roussel attacked Bryennios' camp, and defeated and dispersed his men. Bryennios withdrew in flight to Raidestos, but the victorious imperial forces were too uncertain of the future to pursue him, and Alexios and Roussel could not persuade them