european influence was noticeable during his reign. in a manuscript written by francesco suriano (dated to 1482 by somigli), suriano describes finding 10 italians "of good repute" residing at eskender's court, some who had been living there for 25 years. suriano adds that since 1480, seven more had travelled to the ethiopian court. they had travelled there "to seek jewels and precious stones", but "since the king did not allow them to return, they were all ill content, although they were all well rewarded, each in accordance with his rank."