Help!

Replaced worn front brake pads ( I compressed the pistons in the
calipers using a clamp) after which the previously good brake pedal
was not so good.
Thought well, maybe I need to bleed the lines. Attempting to do so,
I was unable to get any brake fluid out of the front bleeders by means of
the
usual 2 man pump and bleed method.
Resorting to consulting the Bentley, I saw where it said to bleed the rear
first.
so I thought I'd give that a try. This resulted in loosing pedal to my rear
brakes.
Same deal, press brake pedal, open bleeder, nothing!
Now I have no brakes at all (except hand brake)
So, What am I doing wrong? or did I perhaps screw up the master cylinder
somehow when I compressed the pistons?
Any help or thoughts appreciated!

Rod