s: "'Tis not to every person / I can the burden say


s: That ever now in secret / upon my heart doth weigh:


s: To well-tried friends and steady / are told our inmost woes."


s: He spake unto the monarch: / "To thee I've naught denied.


s: All ills that now do threaten / I'll help to turn aside.


s: And if but friends thou seekest, / of them the first I'll be,


s: "God speed thee well, Sir Siegfried, / for this thy purpose fair:


s: Yet do I joy at hearing / thou art so true to me.


s: And live I yet a season, / right heartily repaid 'twill be.


s: "Know will I also let thee / wherefore I sorrowing stand.


s: Through messengers from my foemen / have tidings reached my land


s: That they with hosts of warriors / will ride my country o'er;


s: Such thing to us did never / thanes of any land before."


s: "Small cause is that for grieving," / said then Siegfried;


s: "But calm thy troubled spirit / and hearken to my rede:


s: Let me for thee acquire / honor and vantage too,


s: And bid thou now assemble / for service eke thy warriors true.


s: "And had thy mighty enemies / to help them now at hand


s: Good thanes full thirty thousand, / against them all I'd stand,


s: Had I but one good thousand: / put all thy trust in me."


s: "Then bid for me to summon / a thousand of thy men,


s: Since I now have with me / of all my knightly train


s: None but twelve knights only; / then will I guard thy land.


s: "Herein shall help us Hagen / and eke Ortwein,


s: Dankwart and Sindold, / those trusted knights of thine;


s: And with us too shall journey / Volker, the valiant man;


s: The banner he shall carry: / bestow it better ne'er I can.


s: "Back to their native country / the messengers may go;


s: They'll see us there right quickly, / let them full surely know,


s: So that all our castles / peace undisturbed shall have."


s: To court returned the heralds / King Luedeger had sent,


s: And on their journey homeward / full joyfully they went.


s: King Gunther gave them presents / that costly were and good,


s: And granted them safe convoy; / whereat they were of merry mood.


s: "Tell ye my foes," spake Gunther, / "when to your land ye come,


s: Than making journeys hither / they better were at home;


s: But if they still be eager / to make such visit here,


s: Then for the messengers / rich presents forth they bore,


s: Whereof in sooth to give them / Gunther had goodly store:


s: And they durst not refuse them / whom Luedeger had sent.


s: When to their native Denmark / the messengers returned,


s: And the king Luedegast / the answer too had learned,


s: They at the Rhine had sent him, / --when that to him was told,


s: His wrath was all unbounded / to have reply in words so bold.


s: 'Twas said their warriors numbered / many a man full keen:


s: "There likewise among them / with Gunther have we seen


s: Of Netherland a hero, / the same that Siegfried hight."


s: When throughout all Denmark / the tidings quick spread o'er,


s: Then in hot haste they summoned / helpers all the more,


s: So that King Luedegast, / 'twixt friends from far and near,


s: Then too his men did summon / of Saxony Luedeger,


s: Till they good forty thousand, / and more, had gathered there,


s: With whom to make the journey / 'gainst the land of Burgundy.


s: Mighty men to summon / of his own and brothers twain,


s: Who against the foemen / would join the armed train.


s: In haste they made them ready, / for right good cause they had.


s: Amongst them must thereafter / full many a noble thane lie dead.


s: As they began the journey / from Worms across the Rhine;


s: Strong of arm grim Hagen / was chosen leader of the line.


s: With them there rode Sindold / and eke the keen Hunold


s: Who oft at hands of Gunther / had won rewards of gold;


s: Dankwart, Hagen's brother, / and Ortwein beside,


s: Who all could well with honor / in train of noble warriors ride.


s: "King Gunther," spake then Siegfried, / "stay thou here at home;


s: Since now thy knights so gallant / with me will gladly come,


s: Rest thou here with fair ladies, / and be of merry mood:


s: I trow we'll keep in safety / thy land and honor as we should.


s: "And well will I see to it / that they at home remain,


s: Who fain would ride against thee / to Worms upon the Rhine.


s: Against them straight we'll journey / into their land so far


s: Then from the Rhine through Hesse / the hosts of knights rode on


s: Toward the land of Saxons, / where battle was anon.


s: With fire and sword they harried / and laid the country waste,


s: So that both the monarchs / full well the woes of war did taste.


s: When came they to the border / the train-men onward pressed.


s: With thought of battle-order / Siegfried the thanes addressed:


s: "Who now shall guard our followers / from danger in the rear?"


s: In sooth like this the Saxons / in battle worsted never were.


s: Then said they: "On the journey / the men shall guarded be


s: By the valiant Dankwart, / --a warrior swift is he;


s: So shall we lose the fewer / by men of Luedeger.


s: Let him and Ortwein with him / be chosen now to guard the rear."


s: Spake then the valiant Siegfried: / "Myself will now ride on,


s: And against our enemies / will keep watch in the van,


s: Till I aright discover / where they perchance may be."


s: The son of fair Queen Siegelind / did arm him then immediately.


s: The folk he left to Hagen / when ready to depart,


s: And as well to Gernot, / a man of dauntless heart.


s: Into the land of Saxons / alone he rode away,


s: And by his hand was severed / many a helmet's band that day.


s: He found a mighty army / that lay athwart the plain,


s: Small part of which outnumbered / all those in his own train:


s: Full forty thousand were they / or more good men of might.


s: The hero high in spirit / saw right joyfully the sight.


s: Then had eke a warrior / from out the enemy


s: To guard the van gone forward, / all armed cap-a-pie.


s: Him saw the noble Siegfried, / and he the valiant man;


s: Each one straight the other / to view with angry mien began.


s: Who he was I'll tell you / that rode his men before,


s: --A shield of gold all shining / upon his arm he bore--


s: In sooth it was King Luedegast / who there the van did guard.


s: Now singled out for combat / him, too, had Luedegast.


s: Then full upon each other / they spurred their chargers fast,


s: As on their shields they lowered / their lances firm and tight,


s: Whereat the lordly monarch / soon found himself in sorry plight.


s: After the shock their chargers / bore the knights so fast


s: Onward past each other / as flew they on the blast.


s: Then turned they deftly backward / obedient to the rein,


s: When Siegfried struck in anger / far off was heard the blow,


s: And flew from off the helmet, / as if 'twere all aglow,


s: The fiery sparks all crackling / beneath his hand around.


s: Each warrior in the other / a foeman worth his mettle found.


s: Full many a stroke with vigor / dealt eke King Luedegast,


s: And on each other's buckler / the blows fell thick and fast.


s: Then thirty men discovered / their master's sorry plight:


s: With three mighty gashes / which he had dealt the king


s: Through his shining breastplate / made fast with many a ring.


s: Then came his knights to help him, / they who there had seen


s: After duel ended, / did thirty yet withstand


s: Of knights that him attended; / but there the hero's hand


s: Kept safe his noble captive / with blows of wondrous might.


s: Beneath his arm of valor / the thirty soon lay dead.


s: But one the knight left living, / who thence full quickly sped


s: To tell abroad the story / how he the others slew;


s: Then had the men of Denmark / for all their grief good cause,


s: When it was told them truly / their king a captive was.


s: They told it to King Luedeger, / when he to rage began


s: In anger all unbounded: / for him had grievous harm been done.


s: The noble King Luedegast / was led a prisoner then


s: By hand of mighty Siegfried / back to King Gunther's men,


s: And placed in hands of Hagen: / and when they did hear


s: That 'twas the king of Denmark / they not a little joyful were.


s: He bade the men of Burgundy / then bind the banners on.


s: "Now forward!" Siegfried shouted, / "here shall yet more be done,


s: "Ye warriors from Rhineland, / to follow me take heed,


s: And I unto the army / of Luedeger will lead.


s: Ere we again turn backward / to the land of Burgundy


s: To horse then hastened Gernot / and with him mighty men.


s: Volker keen in battle / took up the banner then;


s: He was a doughty Fiddler / and rode the host before.


s: There, too, every follower / a stately suit of armor wore.


s: More than a thousand warriors / they there had not a man,


s: Saving twelve knights-errant. / To rise the dust began


s: In clouds along the highway / as they rode across the fields,


s: Meanwhile eke was nearing / of Saxons a great throng,


s: Each a broadsword bearing / that mickle was and long,


s: The leaders forth to battle / led the warriors then.


s: Come was also Siegfried / with his twelve chosen men,


s: Whom he with him hither / had brought from Netherland.


s: That day in storm of battle / was blood-bespattered many a hand.


s: Sindold and Hunold / and Gernot as well,


s: Beneath their hands in battle / full many a hero fell,


s: Ere that their deeds of valor / were known throughout the host.


s: Through them must many a stately / matron weep for warrior lost.


s: Volker and Hagen / and Ortwein in the fight


s: Lustily extinguished / full many a helmet's light


s: With blood from wounds down flowing,-- / keen fighters every one.


s: The knights of Denmark tested / how they could weapons wield.


s: Clashing there together / heard ye many a shield


s: And 'neath sharp swords resounding, / swung by many an arm.


s: When the men of Burgundy / pressed forward to the fight,


s: Gaping wounds full many / hewed they there with might.


s: Then flowing down o'er saddle / in streams was seen the blood,


s: So fought for sake of honor / these valiant riders keen and good.


s: Loudly were heard ringing, / wielded by hero's hand,


s: The sharply-cutting weapons, / where they of Netherland


s: Their master followed after / into the thickest throng:


s: Of warriors from Rhine river / could follow not a one.


s: There could be seen by any / a stream of blood flow down


s: O'er brightly gleaming helmet / 'neath Siegfried's mighty hand,


s: Until King Luedeger / before him with his men did stand.


s: Three times hither and thither / had he the host cut through


s: From one end to the other. / Now come was Hagen too


s: Who helped him well in battle / to vent his warlike mood.


s: That day beneath his valor / must die full many a rider good.


s: When the doughty Luedeger / Siegfried there found,


s: As he swung high in anger / his arm for blows around


s: And with his good sword Balmung / knights so many slew,


s: Thereat was the keen warrior / filled with grief and anger too.


s: Then mickle was the thronging / and loud the broadswords clashed,


s: Then struggled all the fiercer / both sides the fight to win;


s: To the monarch of the Saxons / it had been told before,


s: His brother was a captive, / which grieved his heart right sore.


s: He knew not that had done it / fair Siegelind's son,


s: King Luedeger struck so mighty / when fierce his anger rose,


s: That Siegfried's steed beneath him / staggered from the blows,


s: But forthwith did recover; / then straight his rider keen


s: Let all his furious mettle / in slaughter of his foes be seen.


s: There helped him well grim Hagen, / and Gernot in the fray,


s: Dankwart and Volker; / dead many a knight there lay.


s: Sindold and Hunold / and Ortwein, doughty thane,


s: Unparted in storm of battle / the gallant leaders were,


s: Around them over helmet / flew there many a spear


s: Through shield all brightly shining, / from hand of mighty thane:


s: Amid the hurly-burly / down fell many a man


s: To ground from off his charger. / Straight 'gainst each other ran


s: Over the valiant Saxons, / of whom were wonders seen.


s: Upon the shining buckler / that guarded Siegfried's breast


s: Soon espied King Luedeger / a painted crown for crest;


s: By this same token knew he / it was the doughty man,


s: And to his friends he straightway / amid the battle loud began:


s: "Give o'er from fighting further, / good warriors every one!


s: Amongst our foes now see I / Siegmund's noble son,


s: Of netherland the doughty / knight on victory bent.


s: Him has the evil Devil / to scourge the Saxons hither sent."


s: Then bade he all the banners / amid the storm let down.


s: Peace he quickly sued for: / 'Twas granted him anon,


s: But he must now a hostage / be ta'en to Gunther's land.


s: They thus by common counsel / left off all further fight.


s: Hacked full many a helmet / and shields that late were bright


s: From hands down laid they weary; / as many as there might be,


s: Each whom he would took captive, / now they had won the fight.


s: Gernot, the noble hero, / and Hagen, doughty knight,


s: Bade bear forth the wounded. / Back led they with them then


s: Unto the land of Burgundy / five hundred stalwart fighting-men.


s: The knights, of victory cheated, / their native Denmark sought,


s: Nor had that day the Saxons / with such high valor fought,


s: For the Rhine then laden / they let their armor be.


s: Siegfried, the knight so doughty, / had won the victory


s: With his few chosen followers; / that he had nobly done,


s: To Worms sent Gernot riding / now a messenger,


s: And of the joyous tiding / soon friends at home were ware,


s: How that it well had prospered / with him and all his men.


s: Fought that day with valor / for honor had those warriors keen.


s: The messenger sped forward / and told the tidings o'er.


s: Then joyfully they shouted / who boded ill before,


s: To hear the welcome story / that now to them was told.


s: From ladies fair and noble / came eager questions manifold,


s: Who all the fair fortune / of King Gunther's men would know.


s: One messenger they ordered / unto Kriemhild to go.


s: But that was done in secret: / she durst let no one see,


s: When to her own apartments / was come the messenger


s: Joyfully addressed him / Kriemhild the maiden fair:


s: "But tell me now glad tidings, / and gold I'll give to thee,


s: "How has my good brother / Gernot in battle sped,


s: And how my other kinsmen? / Lies any of them dead?


s: "But in the dire turmoil / rode rider none so well,


s: O Princess fair and noble, / since I must truly tell,


s: As the stranger knight full noble / who comes from Netherland;


s: "Whate'er have all the warriors / in battle dared to do,


s: Dankwart and Hagen / and the other knights so true,


s: Howe'er they fought for honor, / 'twas naught but idle play


s: "Beneath their hands in battle / full many a hero fell,


s: Yet all the deeds of wonder / no man could ever tell,


s: Wrought by the hand of Siegfried, / when rode he 'gainst the foe:


s: "There, too, the knight she loved / full many a maid must lose.


s: Were heard come down on helmet / so loud his mighty blows,


s: That they from gaping gashes / brought forth the flowing blood.


s: In all that maketh noble / he is a valiant knight and good.


s: "Many a deed of daring / of Metz Sir Ortwein wrought:


s: For all was evil faring / whom he with broadsword caught,


s: Doomed to die that instant, / or wounded sore to fall.


s: And there thy valiant brother / did greater havoc work than all


s: "That e'er in storm of battle / was done by warrior bold.


s: Of all those chosen warriors / let eke the truth be told:


s: The proud Burgundian heroes / have made it now right plain,


s: "Beneath their hands was often / full many a saddle bare,


s: When o'er the field resounding / their bright swords cut the air.


s: "Keen the knights of Tronje / 'fore all their valor showed,


s: 'Twill long be in the telling / here in the land of Burgundy.


s: "Sindold and Hunold, / Gernot's men each one,


s: And the valiant Rumold / have all so nobly done,


s: King Luedeger will ever / have right good cause to rue


s: That he against thy kindred / at Rhine dared aught of harm to do.


s: "And deeds of all most wondrous / e'er done by warrior keen


s: In earliest time or latest, / by mortal ever seen,


s: Wrought there in lusty manner / Siegfried with doughty hand.


s: Rich hostages he bringeth / with him unto Gunther's land.


s: "By his own strength subdued them / the hero unsurpassed


s: And brought down dire ruin / upon King Luedegast,


s: Eke on the King of Saxons / his brother Luedeger.


s: Now hearken to the story / I tell thee, noble Princess fair.


s: "Them both hath taken captive / Siegfried's doughty hand.


s: Hostages were so many / ne'er brought into this land


s: As to the Rhine come hither / through his great bravery."


s: Than these could never tidings / unto her heart more welcome be.


s: "With captives home they're hieing, / five hundred men or mo',


s: And of the wounded dying / Lady shalt thou know,


s: Full eighty blood-stained barrows / unto Burgundian land,


s: "Who message sent defiant / unto the Rhine so late


s: Must now as Gunther's prisoners / here abide their fate.


s: Bringing such noble captives / the victors glad return."


s: Her cheeks so full of beauty / with joy were rosy-red,


s: That passed he had uninjured / through all the dangers dread,


s: The knight she loved so dearly, / Siegfried with doughty arm.


s: Then spake the beauteous maiden: / "Glad news thou hast told me,


s: Wherefor now rich apparel / thy goodly meed shall be,


s: And to thee shall be given / ten marks of gold as well."


s: The presents rich they gave him, / gold and apparel rare.


s: Then hastened to the casement / full many a maiden fair,


s: And on the street looked downward: / hither riding did they see


s: Many a knight high-hearted / into the land of Burgundy.


s: There came who 'scaped uninjured, / and wounded borne along,


s: All glad to hear the greetings / of friends, a joyful throng.


s: To meet his friends the monarch / rode out in mickle glee:


s: In joying now was ended / all his full great anxiety.


s: Then did he well his warriors / and eke the strangers greet;


s: And for a king so mighty / 'twere nothing else but meet


s: That he should thank right kindly / the gallant men each one,


s: Who had in storm of battle / the victory so bravely won.


s: Then of his friends King Gunther / bade tidings tell straightway,


s: Lost had he none other / than warriors three score:


s: Then wept they for the heroes, / as since they did for many more.


s: Shields full many brought they / all hewn by valiant hand,


s: And many a shattered helmet / into King Gunther's hand.


s: The riders then dismounted / from their steeds before the hall,


s: And a right hearty welcome / from friends rejoicing had they all.


s: Then did they for the warriors / lodging meet prepare,


s: And for his guests the monarch / bade full well have care.


s: He bade them take the wounded / and tend them carefully,


s: And toward his enemies also / his gentle bearing might ye see.


s: To Luedeger then spake he: / "Right welcome art thou here.


s: Through fault of thine now have I / lost many friends full dear,


s: For which, have I good fortune, / thou shall right well atone.


s: "Well may'st thou thank them, truly," / spake then Luedeger;


s: "Hostages so noble / won a monarch ne'er.


s: For chivalrous protection / rich goods we offer thee,


s: That thou now right gracious / to us thy enemies shalt be."


s: "I'll grant you both your freedom," / spake the king again;


s: "But that my enemies surely / here by me remain,


s: Therefor I'll have good pledges / they ne'er shall quit my land,


s: Save at my royal pleasure." / Thereto gave Luedeger the hand.


s: Sweet rest then found the weary / their tired limbs to aid,


s: And gently soon on couches / the wounded knights were laid;


s: Mead and wine right ruddy / they poured out plenteously:


s: Their shields all hacked in battle / secure were laid away;


s: And not a few of saddles / stained with blood that day,


s: Lest women weep to see them, / hid they too from sight.


s: Full many a keen rider / home came aweary from the fight.


s: The host in gentlest manner / did his guests attend:


s: The land around with stranger / was crowded, and with friend.


s: They bade the sorely wounded / nurse with especial care:


s: Who there had skill in healing / received reward untold,


s: Silver all unweighed / and thereto ruddy gold


s: For making whole the heroes / after the battle sore.


s: Who there again was minded / to take his homeward way


s: They bade, as one a friend doth, / yet a while to stay.


s: The king did then take counsel / how to reward each one,


s: For they his will in battle / like liegemen true had nobly done.


s: Then outspake royal Gernot: / "Now let them homeward go;


s: After six weeks are over, / --thus our friends shall know--


s: To hold high feast they're bidden / hither to come again;


s: Many a knight now lying / sore wounded will be healed ere then.


s: Of Netherland the hero / would also then take leave.


s: When of this King Gunther / did tidings first receive,


s: The knight besought he kindly / not yet his leave to take:


s: A prince he was too noble / to take the common pay;


s: He had right well deserved it / that the king alway


s: And all his warriors held him / in honor, for they had seen


s: What by his arm in battle / bravely had accomplished been.


s: He stayed there yet a little / for the maiden's sake alone,


s: Whom he would see so gladly. / And all fell out full soon


s: As he at heart had wished it: / well known to him was she.


s: Home to his father's country / joyously anon rode he.


s: The king bade at all seasons / keep up the tournament,


s: And many a youthful rider / forth to the lists there went.


s: The while were seats made ready / by Worms upon the strand


s: For all who soon were coming / unto the Burgundian land.


s: In the meantime also, / ere back the knights returned,


s: Had Kriemhild, noble lady, / the tidings likewise learned,


s: The king would hold high feasting / with all his gallant men.


s: There was a mickle hurry, / and busy were fair maidens then


s: With dresses and with wimples / that they there should wear.


s: Ute, queen so stately, / the story too did hear,


s: How to them were coming / proud knights of highest worth.


s: Such love she bore her children / she bade rich dress prepare,


s: Wherewith adorned were ladies / and many a maiden fair,


s: And not a few young riders / in the land of Burgundy.


s: Unto the Rhine now daily / the knights were seen to ride,


s: Who there would be full gladly / to share the festive tide.


s: To all that thither journeyed / to the king to show them true,


s: In plenty them were given / steeds and rich apparel too.


s: And soon were seats made ready / for every noble guest,


s: As we have heard the story, / for highest and for best,


s: Two and thirty princes / at the festival.


s: Then vied with one another / to deck themselves the ladies all.


s: Never was seen idle / the young Prince Giselher:


s: The guests and all their followers / received full kindly were


s: By him and eke by Gernot / and their men every one.


s: The noble thanes they greeted / as ever 'tis in honor done.


s: With gold bright gleaming saddles / unto the land they brought,


s: Good store of rich apparel / and shields all richly wrought


s: Unto the Rhine they carried / to that high festival.


s: And joyous days were coming / for the wounded warriors all.


s: They who yet on couches / lay wounded grievously


s: For joy had soon forgotten / how bitter death would be:


s: The sick and all the ailing / no need of pity had.


s: Anent the days of feasting / were they o'er the tidings glad,


s: How they should make them merry / there where all were so.


s: Delight beyond all measure, / of joys an overflow,


s: Had in sooth the people / seen on every hand:


s: Then rose a mickle joyance / over all King Gunther's land.


s: Full many a warrior valiant / one morn at Whitsuntide


s: All gorgeously apparelled / was thither seen to ride,


s: Five thousand men or over, / where the feast should be;


s: And vied in every quarter / knight with knight in revelry.


s: Thereof the host was mindful, / for he well did understand


s: How at heart right warmly / the hero of Netherland


s: Loved alone his sister, / though her he ne'er had seen,


s: Then spake the thane so noble / of Metz Sir Ortwein:


s: "Wilt thou full be honored / by every guest of thine,


s: Then do them all the pleasure / the winsome maids to see,


s: That are held so high in honor / here in the land of Burgundy.


s: "What were a man's chief pleasure, / his very joy of life,


s: An 't were not a lovely maiden / or a stately wife?


s: Then let the maid thy sister / before thy guests appear."


s: "Thy words I'll gladly follow," / then the monarch said,


s: And all the knights who heard him / ere thereat right glad.


s: Then told was Queen Ute / and eke her daughter fair,


s: Then in well-stored wardrobes / rich attire they sought,


s: And forth from folding covers / their glittering dresses brought,


s: And zealous to adorn her / was then full many a winsome maid.


s: Full many a youthful squire / upon that day did try,


s: By decking of his person, / to win fair lady's eye;


s: For the which great good fortune / he'd take no monarch's crown:


s: For her especial service / the king did order then


s: To wait upon his sister / a hundred of his men,


s: As well upon his mother: / they carried sword in hand.


s: That was the court attendance / there in the Burgundian land.


s: Ute, queen so stately, / then came forth with her:


s: And with the queen in waiting / ladies fair there were,


s: A hundred or over, / in festal robes arrayed.


s: Forth from their own apartments / they all were seen to go:


s: There was a mickle pressing / of good knights to and fro,


s: Who hoped to win the pleasure, / if such a thing might be,


s: The noble maiden Kriemhild, / delight of every eye, to see.


s: Now came she fair and lovely, / as the ruddy sun of morn


s: From misty clouds emerging. / Straight he who long had borne


s: Her in his heart and loved her, / from all his gloom was freed,


s: As so stately there before him / he saw the fair and lovely maid.


s: Her rich apparel glittered / with many a precious stone,


s: And with a ruddy beauty / her cheeks like roses shone.


s: Though you should wish to do so, / you could not say, I ween,


s: That e'er a fairer lady / in all the world before was seen.


s: As in a sky all starlit / the moon shines out so bright,


s: And through the cloudlets peering / pours down her gentle light,


s: E'en so was Kriemhild's beauty / among her ladies fair:


s: The richly clad attendants / moved stately on before,


s: And the valiant thanes high-hearted / stood patiently no more,


s: But pressed right eager forward / to see the lovely maid:


s: In noble Siegfried's bosom / alternate joy and anguish swayed.


s: He thought with heart despairing, / "How could it ever be,


s: That I should win thy favor? / There hoped I foolishly.


s: But had I e'er to shun thee, / then were I rather dead."


s: And oft, to think upon it, / the color from his visage fled.


s: The noble son of Siegmund / did there so stately stand


s: As if his form were pictured / by good old master's hand


s: Upon a piece of parchment. / All who saw, confessed


s: That he of all good heroes / was the stateliest and the best.


s: The fair Kriemhild's attendants / gave order to make way


s: On all sides for the ladies, / and willing thanes obey.


s: To see their noble bearing / did every warrior cheer;


s: Full many a stately lady / of gentle manner born was there.


s: Then outspake of Burgundy / Gernot the valiant knight:


s: "To him who thus has helped thee / so bravely in the fight,


s: Gunther, royal brother, / shalt thou like favor show,


s: A thane before all others; / he's worthy of it well, I trow.


s: "Let then the doughty Siegfried / unto my sister go


s: To have the maiden's greetings, / --'twill be our profit so.


s: She that ne'er greeted hero / shall greet him courteously,


s: The king's knights hastened gladly / upon his high command


s: And told these joyous tidings / to the prince of Netherland.


s: "It is the king's good pleasure / that thou to court shalt go,


s: To have his sister's greetings; / to honor thee 'tis ordered so."


s: Then was the thane full valiant / thereat soon filled with joy.


s: Yea, bore he in his bosom / delight without alloy


s: At thought that he should straightway / Ute's fair daughter see.


s: Siegfried anon she greeted / in courteous manner lovingly.


s: As she saw the knight high-hearted / there before her stand,


s: Blushed red and spake the maiden, / the fairest of the land:


s: "A welcome, brave Sir Siegfried, / thou noble knight and good."


s: Before her low he bended; / him by the hand took she,


s: And by her onward wended / the knight full willingly.


s: They cast upon each other / fond glances many a one,


s: The knight and eke the maiden; / furtively it all was done.


s: Whether he pressed friendly / that hand as white as snow


s: From the love he bore her, / that I do not know;


s: Yet believe I cannot / that this was left undone,


s: In the sunny summer season / and in the month of May


s: Had his heart seen never / before so glad a day,


s: Nor one so fully joyous, / as when he walked beside


s: Then thought many a warrior: / "Were it likewise granted me


s: To walk beside the maiden, / just as now I see,


s: Or to lie beside her, / how gladly were that done!"


s: But ne'er a knight more fully / had gracious lady's favor won.


s: From all the lands far distant / were guests distinguished there,


s: By royal leave did Kriemhild / kiss then the stately knight:


s: In all the world he never / before had known so rare delight.


s: Then full of strange forebodings, / of Denmark spake the king:


s: "This full loving greeting / to many woe will bring,


s: On all sides then 'twas ordered / 'fore Kriemhild and her train


s: Of women make free passage. / Full many a valiant thane


s: With her unto the minster / in courtly way went on.


s: But from her side was parted / the full stately knight anon.


s: Then went she to the minster, / and with her many a maid.


s: In such rich apparel / Kriemhild was arrayed,


s: That hearty wishes many / there were made in vain:


s: Her comely form delighted / the eye of many a noble thane.


s: Scarce could tarry Siegfried / till mass was sung the while.


s: And surely did Dame Fortune / upon him kindly smile,


s: To him she was so gracious / whom in his heart he bore.


s: Eke did he the maiden, / as she full well deserved, adore.


s: As after mass then Kriemhild / came to the minster door,


s: The knight his homage offered, / as he had done before.


s: Then began to thank him / the full beauteous maid,


s: That he her royal brothers / did 'gainst their foes so nobly aid.


s: "God speed thee, Sir Siegfried," / spake the maiden fair,


s: "For thou hast well deserved / that all these warriors are,


s: As it hath now been told me, / right grateful unto thee."


s: Then gan he cast his glances / on the Lady Kriemhild lovingly.


s: "True will I ever serve them," / --so spake the noble thane--


s: "And my head shall never / be laid to rest again,


s: Till I, if life remaineth, / have their good favor won.


s: Ne'er a day passed over / for a twelve of happy days,


s: But saw they there beside him / the maiden all did praise,


s: As she before her kinsmen / to court would daily go:


s: Delight and great rejoicing, / a mighty jubilee,


s: Before King Gunther's castle / daily might ye see,


s: Without and eke within it, / 'mongst keen men many a one.


s: Whate'er was done by any, / in all they ready were


s: To join in way right lusty, / both the warriors rare:


s: Whereby 'mongst all the strangers / they won an honored name,


s: Who erstwhile lay sore wounded / now were whole again,


s: And fain would share the pastime, / with all the king's good men;


s: Wherein did join them many / of the merry-making throng.


s: To all who joined the feasting / the host in plenty bade


s: Supply the choicest viands: / so guarded well he had


s: 'Gainst whate'er reproaches / could rise from spite or spleen.


s: Unto his guests right friendly / to go the monarch now was seen.


s: He spake: "Ye thanes high-hearted, / ere now ye part from me,


s: Accept of these my presents; / for I would willingly


s: Repay your noble service. / Despise ye not, I pray,


s: Straightway they of Denmark / thus to the king replied:


s: "Ere now upon our journey / home again we ride,


s: We long for lasting friendship. / Thereof we knights have need,


s: Luedegast was recovered / from all his wounds so sore,


s: And eke the lord of Saxons / from fight was whole once more.


s: Some amongst their warriors / left they dead behind.


s: Then went forth King Gunther / where he Siegfried might find.


s: Unto the thane then spake he: / "Thy counsel give, I pray.


s: The foes whom we hold captive / fain would leave straightway,


s: And long for lasting friendship / with all my men and me.


s: "What the lords bid as ransom, / shall now to thee be told


s: Whate'er five hundred horses / might bear of ruddy gold,


s: They'd give to me right gladly, / would I but let them free."


s: "Thou shalt let them freely / journey hence again;


s: And that they both hereafter / shall evermore refrain


s: From leading hostile army / against thee and thy land,


s: "Thy rede I'll gladly follow." / Straightway forth they went.


s: To those who offered ransom / the answer then was sent,


s: Their gold no one desired / which they would give before.


s: Full many a shield all laden / with treasure forth they bore:


s: He dealt it round unmeasured / to friends in goodly store;


s: Each one had marks five hundred / and some had more, I ween.


s: Then was a great leave-taking, / as they departed thence.


s: The warriors all 'fore Kriemhild / appeared in reverence,


s: And eke there where her mother / Queen Ute sat near by.


s: Gallant thanes were never / dismissed as these so graciously.


s: Bare were the lodging-places, / when away the strangers rode.


s: Yet in right lordly manner / there at home abode


s: The king with friends around him, / full noble men who were.


s: And them now saw they daily / at court before Kriemhild appear.


s: Eke would the gallant hero / Siegfried thence depart,


s: The thing to gain despairing / whereon was set his heart.


s: The king was told the tidings / how that he would away.


s: Giselher his brother / did win the knight with them to stay.


s: "Whither, O noble Siegfried, / wilt thou now from us ride?


s: Do as I earnest pray thee, / and with these thanes abide,


s: As guest here with King Gunther, / and live right merrily.


s: Here dwell fair ladies many: / them will he gladly let thee see."


s: Our shields once more take from us. / Though gladly home I would,


s: So stayed the knight full gallant / for sake of friendship there.


s: Had he so gladly lingered: / iwis it was that he,


s: 'Twas her surpassing beauty / that made the knight to stay.


s: With many a merry pastime / they whiled the time away;


s: But love for her oppressed him, / oft-times grievously.


s: Whereby anon the hero / a mournful death was doomed to die.


s: How Gunther fared to Isenland to Brunhild


s: Tidings unknown to any / from over Rhine now come,


s: How winsome maids a many / far yonder had their home.


s: Whereof the royal Gunther / bethought him one to win,


s: And o'er the thought the monarch / of full joyous mood was seen.


s: There was a queenly maiden / seated over sea,


s: Like her nowhere another / was ever known to be.


s: She was in beauty matchless, / full mickle was her might;


s: The stone she threw far distant, / wide sprang thereafter too.


s: Who turned to her his fancy / with intent to woo,


s: Three times perforce must vanquish / the lady of high degree;


s: Failed he in but one trial, / forfeited his head had he.


s: This same the lusty princess / times untold had done.


s: When to a warrior gallant / beside the Rhine 'twas known,


s: He thought to take unto him / the noble maid for wife:


s: Thereby must heroes many / since that moment lose their life.


s: Then spake of Rhine the master: / "I'll down unto the sea


s: Unto Brunhild journey, / fare as 'twill with me.


s: For her unmeasured beauty / I'll gladly risk my life,


s: Ready eke to lose it, / if she may not be my wife."


s: "I counsel thee against it," / spake then Siegfried.


s: "So terrible in contest / the queen is indeed,


s: Who for her love is suitor / his zeal must dearly pay.


s: So shalt thou from the journey / truly be content to stay."


s: "So will I give thee counsel," / outspake Hagen there,


s: "That thou beg of Siegfried / with thee to bear


s: The perils that await thee: / that is now my rede,


s: To him is known so fully / what with Brunhild will be thy need."


s: He spake: "And wilt thou help me, / noble Siegfried,


s: To win the lovely maiden? / Do what now I plead;


s: And if in all her beauty / she be my wedded wife,


s: To meet thy fullest wishes / honor will I pledge and life."


s: Thereto answered Siegfried, / the royal Siegmund's son:


s: "Giv'st thou me thy sister, / so shall thy will be done,


s: --Kriemhild the noble princess, / in beauty all before.


s: For toils that I encounter / none other meed I ask thee more."


s: "That pledge I," spake then Gunther, / "Siegfried, in thy hand.


s: And comes the lovely Brunhild / thither to this land,


s: Thereunto thee my sister / for wife I'll truly give,


s: That with the lovely maiden / thou may'st ever joyful live."


s: Oaths the knight full noble / upon the compact swore,


s: Whereby to them came troubles / and dangers all the more,


s: Ere they the royal lady / brought unto the Rhine.


s: With him carried Siegfried / that same mantle then,


s: The which with mickle trouble / had won the hero keen


s: From a dwarf in struggle, / Alberich by name.


s: And when the doughty Siegfried / the sightless mantle wore,


s: Had he within it / of strength as good a store


s: As other men a dozen / in himself alone.


s: The full stately princess / anon by cunning art he won.


s: Eke had that same mantle / such wondrous properties


s: That any man whatever / might work whate'er he please


s: When once he had it on him, / yet none could see or tell.


s: 'Twas so that he won Brunhild; / whereby him evil since befell.


s: "Ere we begin our journey, / Siegfried, tell to me,


s: That we with fullest honor / come unto the sea,


s: Shall we lead warriors with us / down to Brunhild's land?


s: Thanes a thirty thousand / straightway shall be called to hand."


s: "Men bring we ne'er so many," / answered Siegfried then.


s: "So terrible in custom / ever is the queen,


s: That all would death encounter / from her angry mood.


s: I'll give thee better counsel, / thane in valor keen and good.


s: "Like as knights-errant journey / down the Rhine shall we.


s: Those now will I name thee / who with us shall be;


s: But four in all the company / seaward shall we fare:


s: Thus shall we woo the lady, / what fortune later be our share.


s: "Myself one of the company, / a second thou shalt be,


s: Hagen be the third one / --so fare we happily;


s: The fourth let it be Dankwart, / warrior full keen.


s: Never thousand others / dare in fight withstand us then."


s: "The tale I would know gladly," / the king then further said,


s: "Ere we have parted thither / --of that were I full glad--


s: What should we of apparel, / that would befit us well,


s: "Weeds the very finest / that ever might be found


s: They wear in every season / in Brunhild's land:


s: So shall we rich apparel / before the lady wear,


s: That we have not dishonor / where men the tale hereafter hear."


s: Then spake he to the other: / "Myself will go unto


s: My own loving mother, / if I from her may sue


s: That her fair tendant maidens / help that we be arrayed


s: As we may go in honor / before the high majestic maid."


s: Then spake of Tronje Hagen / with noble courtliness:


s: "Why wilt thou of thy mother / beg such services?


s: Only let thy sister / hear our mind and mood:


s: So shall for this our journey / her good service be bestowed."


s: Then sent he to his sister / that he her would see,


s: And with him also Siegfried. / Ere that such might be,


s: Herself had there the fair one / in rich apparel clad.


s: Sooth to tell, the visit / but little did displease the maid.


s: Then also were her women / decked as for them was meet.


s: The princes both were coming: / she rose from off her seat,


s: As doth a high-born lady / when that she did perceive,


s: And went the guest full noble / and eke her brother to receive.


s: "Welcome be my brother / and his companion too.


s: I'd know the story gladly," / spake the maiden so,


s: "What ye now are seeking / that ye are come to me:


s: Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Lady, thou shall hear:


s: Spite of lofty spirits / have we yet a care.


s: To woo a maid we travel / afar to lands unknown;


s: We should against the journey / have rich apparel for our own."


s: "Seat thee now, dear brother," / spake the princess fair;


s: "Let me hear the story, / who the ladies are


s: That ye will seek as suitors / in stranger princes' land."


s: Both good knights the lady / took in greeting by the hand.


s: With the twain then went she / where she herself had sat,


s: To couches rich and costly, / in sooth believe ye that,


s: Wrought in design full cunning / of gold embroidery.


s: And with these fair ladies / did pass the time right pleasantly.


s: Many tender glances / and looks full many a one


s: Fondly knight and lady / each other cast upon.


s: Within his heart he bore her, / she was as his own life.


s: Anon the fairest Kriemhild / was the doughty Siegfried's wife.


s: Then spake the mighty monarch: / "Full loving sister mine,


s: This may we ne'er accomplish / without help of thine.


s: Unto Brunhild's country / as suitor now we fare:


s: 'Tis fitting that 'fore ladies / we do rich apparel wear."


s: Then spake the royal maiden: / "Brother dear to me,


s: In whatsoever manner / my help may given be,


s: Of that I well assure you, / ready thereto am I.


s: To Kriemhild 'twere a sorrow / if any should the same deny.


s: "Of me, O noble brother, / thou shalt not ask in vain:


s: Command in courteous manner / and I will serve thee fain.


s: Whatever be thy pleasure, / for that I'll lend my aid


s: And willingly I'll do it," / spake the fair and winsome maid.


s: "It is our wish, dear sister, / apparel good to wear;


s: That shall now directing / the royal hand prepare;


s: And let thy maids see to it / that all is done aright,


s: Spake thereupon the maiden: / "Now mark ye what I say:


s: Myself have silks in plenty; / now send us rich supply


s: Of stones borne on bucklers, / so vesture we'll prepare."


s: To do it royal Gunther / and Siegfried both right ready were.


s: "And who are your companions," / further questioned she,


s: "Who with you apparelled / now for court shall be?"


s: "I it is and Siegfried, / and of my men are two,


s: Dankwart and Hagen, / who with us to court shall go.


s: "Now rightly what we tell thee, / mark, O sister dear:


s: 'Tis that we four companions / for four days may wear


s: Thrice daily change of raiment / so wrought with skilful hand


s: After fair leave-taking / the knights departed so.


s: Then of her attendants / thirty maids to go


s: Forth from her apartments / Kriemhild the princess bade,


s: Of those that greatest cunning / in such skilful working had.


s: The silks that were of Araby / white as the snow in sheen,


s: And from the land of Zazamank / like unto grass so green,


s: With stones of price they broidered; / that made apparel rare.


s: Herself she cut them, Kriemhild / the royal maiden debonair.


s: Fur linings fashioned fairly / from dwellers in the sea


s: Beheld by people rarely, / the best that e'er might be,


s: With silken stuffs they covered / for the knights to wear.


s: Now shall ye of the shining / weeds full many a wonder hear.


s: From land of far Morocco / and eke from Libya


s: Of silks the very finest / that ever mortal saw


s: With any monarch's kindred, / they had a goodly store.


s: Since they unto the journey / had wished that so it be,


s: Skins of costly ermine / used they lavishly,


s: Whereon were silken pieces / black as coal inlaid.


s: To-day were any nobles / in robes so fashioned well arrayed.


s: From the gold of Araby / many a stone there shone.


s: The women long were busy / before the work was done;


s: But all the robes were finished / ere seven weeks did pass,


s: When also trusty armor / for the warriors ready was.


s: When they at length were ready / adown the Rhine to fare,


s: A ship lay waiting for them / strong built with mickle care,


s: Which should bear them safely / far down unto the sea.


s: The maidens rich in beauty / plied their work laboriously.


s: Then 'twas told the warriors / for them was ready there


s: The finely wrought apparel / that they were to wear;


s: Just as they had wished it, / so it had been made;


s: After that the heroes / there by the Rhine no longer stayed.


s: To the knights departing / went soon a messenger:


s: Would they come in person / to view their new attire,


s: If it had been fitted / short and long aright.


s: And all who there beheld them / they must needs confess


s: That in the world they never / had gazed on fairer dress:


s: At court to wear th' apparel / did therefore please them well.


s: Of warriors better furnished / never could a mortal tell.


s: Thanks oft-times repeated / were there not forgot.


s: Leave of parting from them / the noble knights then sought:


s: Like thanes of noble bearing / they went in courteous wise.


s: Then dim and wet with weeping / grew thereat two shining eyes.


s: She spake: "O dearest brother, / still here thou mightest stay,


s: And woo another woman-- / that were the better way--


s: Where so sore endangered / stood not thus thy life.


s: Here nearer canst thou find thee / equally a high-born wife."


s: I ween their hearts did tell them / what later came to pass.


s: They wept there all together, / whatever spoken was.


s: The gold upon their bosoms / was sullied 'neath the tears


s: That from their eyes in plenty / fell adown amid their fears.


s: She spake: "O noble Siegfried, / to thee commended be


s: Upon thy truth and goodness / the brother dear to me,


s: That he come unscathed / home from Brunhild's land."


s: That plighted the full valiant / knight in Lady Kriemhild's hand.


s: The mighty thane gave answer: / "If I my life retain,


s: Then shall thy cares, good Lady, / all have been in vain.


s: All safe I'll bring him hither / again unto the Rhine,


s: Be that to thee full sicker." / To him did the fair maid incline.


s: Their shields of golden color / were borne unto the strand,


s: And all their trusty armor / was ready brought to hand.


s: They bade their horses bring them: / they would at last depart.


s: --Thereat did fairest women / weep with sad foreboding heart.


s: Down from lofty casement / looked many a winsome maid,


s: As ship and sail together / by stirring breeze were swayed.


s: Upon the Rhine they found them, / the warriors full of pride.


s: "That will I," spake Siegfried; / "I can upon the flood


s: Lead you on in safety, / that know ye, heroes good;


s: For all the water highways / are known right well to me."


s: With joy they then departed / from the land of Burgundy.


s: A mighty pole then grasped he, / Siegfried the doughty man,


s: And the ship from shore / forth to shove began.


s: Gunther the fearless also / himself took oar in hand.


s: The knights thus brave and worthy / took departure from the land.


s: They carried rich provisions, / thereto the best of wine


s: That might in any quarter / be found about the Rhine.


s: Their chargers stood in comfort / and rested by the way:


s: The ship it moved so lightly / that naught of injury had they.


s: Stretched before the breezes / were the great sail-ropes tight,


s: And twenty miles they journeyed / ere did come the night,


s: By fair breezes favored / down toward the sea.


s: Upon the twelfth morning, / as we in story hear,


s: Had they by the breezes / thence been carried far,


s: Unto Castle Isenstein / and Brunhild's country:


s: That to Siegfried only / was known of all the company.


s: As soon as saw King Gunther / so many towers rise


s: And eke the boundless marches / stretch before his eyes,


s: He spake: "Tell me, friend Siegfried, / is it known to thee


s: Whose they are, the castles / and the majestic broad country?"


s: Thereto gave answer Siegfried: / "That well to me is known:


s: Brunhild for their mistress / do land and people own


s: And Isenstein's firm towers, / as ye have heard me say.


s: Ladies fair a many / shall ye here behold to-day.


s: "And I will give you counsel: / be it well understood


s: That all your words must tally / --so methinks 'twere good.


s: If ere to-day is over / our presence she command,


s: Must we leave pride behind us, / as before Brunhild we stand.


s: "When we the lovely lady / 'mid her retainers see,


s: Then shall ye, good companions, / in all your speech agree


s: That Gunther is my master / and I his serving-man:


s: 'Tis thus that all he hopeth / shall we in the end attain."


s: To do as he had bidden / consented straight each one,


s: And spite of proudest spirit / they left it not undone.


s: All that he wished they promised, / and good it proved to be


s: When anon King Gunther / the fair Brunhild came to see.


s: "Not all to meet thy wishes / do I such service swear,


s: But most 'tis for thy sister, / Kriemhild the maiden fair;


s: Just as my soul unto me / she is my very life,


s: And fain would I deserve it / that she in truth become my wife."


s: The while they thus did parley / their ship did forward glide


s: So near unto the castle / that soon the king espied


s: Aloft within the casements / many a maiden fair to see.


s: That all to him were strangers / thought King Gunther mournfully.


s: He asked then of Siegfried, / who bare him company:


s: "Know'st thou aught of the maidens, / who the same may be,


s: Gazing yonder downward / upon us on the tide?


s: Howe'er is named their master, / minded are they high in pride."


s: Then spake the valiant Siegfried: / "Now thither shalt thou spy


s: Unseen among the ladies, / then not to me deny


s: "I see there one among them / by yonder casement stand,


s: Clad in snow-white raiment: / 'tis she my eyes demand,


s: So buxom she in stature, / so fair she is to see.


s: An I were free in choosing, / she it is my wife must be."


s: "Full well now in choosing / thine eyes have guided thee:


s: It is the stately Brunhild / the maiden fair to see,


s: That doth now unto her / thy heart and soul compel."


s: All the maiden's bearing / pleased the royal Gunther well.


s: But soon the queen commanded / from casement all to go


s: Of those her beauteous maidens: / they should not stand there so


s: To be gazed at by the strangers. / They must obey her word.


s: What were the ladies doing, / of that moreover have we heard.


s: Unto the noble strangers / their beauty they would show,


s: A thing which lovely women / are ever wont to do.


s: Unto the narrow casements / came they crowding on,


s: But four the strangers numbered, / who came unto that land.


s: Siegfried the doughty / the king's steed led in hand:


s: They saw it from the casements, / many a lovely maid,


s: And saw the willing service / unto royal Gunther paid.


s: Then held he by the bridle / for him his gallant steed,


s: A good and fair-formed charger, / strong and of noble breed,


s: Until the royal Gunther / into the saddle sprung.


s: Thus did serve him Siegfried: / a service all forgot ere long.


s: Then his own steed he also / led forth upon the shore.


s: Such menial service had he / full seldom done before,


s: That he should hold the stirrup / for monarch whomsoe'er.


s: Down gazing from the casements / beheld it ladies high and fair.


s: At every point according, / the heroes well bedight


s: --Their dress and eke their chargers / of color snowy white--


s: Were like unto each other, / and well-wrought shield each one


s: As they rode so stately / in front of Brunhild's Hall,


s: And thereon bells were hanging / of red gold shining bright.


s: So came they to that country, / as fitting was for men of might,


s: Such bore the valiant riders / of broad and cutting blade.


s: The noble show did witness / Brunhild the full stately maid.


s: With him came then Dankwart / and Hagen, doughty thane.


s: The story further telleth / how that the heroes twain


s: Of color black as raven / rich attire wore,


s: And each a broad and mighty / shield of rich adornment bore.


s: Rich stones from India's country / every eye could see,


s: Impending on their tunics, / sparkle full brilliantly.


s: Their vessel by the river / they left without a guard,


s: As thus the valiant heroes / rode undaunted castleward.


s: Six and fourscore towers / without they saw rise tall,


s: Three spacious palaces / and moulded well a hall


s: All wrought of precious marble / green as blade of grass,


s: Wherein the royal Brunhild / with company of fair ladies was.


s: The castle doors unbolted / were flung open wide


s: As out toward them / the men of Brunhild hied


s: And received the strangers / into their Lady's land.


s: Then spake a man-in-waiting: / "Give o'er the sword each thane,


s: Then gan straightway Siegfried / the country's custom to declare.


s: "'Tis wont within this castle, / --of that be now aware--


s: That never any stranger / weapons here shall bear.


s: Now let them hence be carried: / well dost thou as I say."


s: In this did full unwilling / Hagen, Gunther's man, obey.


s: They bade the strangers welcome / with drink and fitting rest.


s: Soon might you see on all sides / full many knights the best


s: In princely weeds apparelled / to their reception go:


s: Yet did they mickle gazing / who would the keen new-comers know.


s: Then unto Lady Brunhild / the tidings strange were brought


s: How that unknown warriors / now her land had sought,


s: In stately apparel / come sailing o'er the sea.


s: "Now shall ye straight inform me," / spake she presently,


s: "Who so unfamiliar / these warrior knights may be,


s: That within my castle / thus so lordly stand,


s: Then spake to her a servant: / "Lady, I well can say


s: Of them I've ne'er seen any / before this present day:


s: Be it not that one among them / is like unto Siegfried.


s: Him give a goodly welcome: / so is to thee my loyal rede.


s: "The next of the companions / he is a worthy knight:


s: If that were in his power / he well were king of might


s: O'er wide domains of princes, / the which might reach his hand.


s: Now see him by the others / so right majestically stand.


s: "The third of the companions, / that he's a man of spleen,


s: --Withal of fair-formed body, / know thou, stately Queen,--


s: Do tell his rapid glances / that dart so free from him.


s: He is in all his thinking / a man, I ween, of mood full grim.


s: "The youngest one among them / he is a worthy knight:


s: As modest as a maiden, / I see the thane of might


s: Goodly in his bearing / standing so fair to see,


s: We all might fear if any / affront to him should offered be.


s: "How blithe soe'er his manner, / how fair soe'er is he,


s: Well could he cause of sorrow / to stately woman be,


s: If he gan show his anger. / In him may well be seen


s: He is in knightly virtues / a thane of valor bold and keen."


s: Then spake the queen in answer: / "Bring now my robes to hand.


s: And is the mighty Siegfried / come unto this land,


s: For love of me brought thither, / he pays it with his life.


s: I fear him not so sorely / that I e'er become his wife."


s: So was fair Brunhild / straightway well arrayed.


s: Then went with her thither / full many a beauteous maid,


s: A hundred good or over, / bedight right merrily.


s: The full beauteous maidens / would those stranger warriors see.


s: And with them went the warriors / there of Isenland,


s: The knights attending Brunhild, / who bore sword in hand,


s: Five hundred men or over. / Scarce heart the strangers kept


s: Now mote ye willing listen / what there the maiden said.


s: "Welcome be thou, Siegfried, / hither unto this land.


s: What meaneth this thy journey, / gladly might I understand."


s: "Full mickle do I thank thee, / my Lady, high Brunhild,


s: That thou art pleased to greet me, / noble Princess mild,


s: Before this knight so noble, / who stands before me here:


s: For he is my master, / whom first to honor fitting were.


s: "Born is he of Rhineland: / what need I say more?


s: For thee 'tis highest favor / that we do hither fare.


s: Thee will he gladly marry, / an bring that whatsoe'er.


s: "For his name is Gunther / and he a mighty king.


s: If he thy love hath won him, / more wants he not a thing.


s: In sooth the king so noble / hath bade me hither fare:


s: And gladly had I left it, / might I to thwart his wishes dare."


s: She spake: "Is he thy master / and thou his vassal art,


s: Some games to him I offer, / and dare he there take part,


s: And comes he forth the victor, / so am I then his wife:


s: And be it I that conquer, / then shall ye forfeit each his life."


s: Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Lady, let us see


s: Thy games so fraught with peril. / Before should yield to thee


s: Gunther my master, / that well were something rare.


s: He trows he yet is able / to win a maid so passing fair."


s: "Then shall ye try stone-putting / and follow up the cast,


s: And the spear hurl with me. / Do ye naught here in haste.


s: For well may ye pay forfeit / with honor eke and life:


s: Siegfried the valiant / stepped unto the king,


s: And bade him speak out freely / his thoughts upon this thing


s: Unto the queen so wayward, / he might have fearless heart.


s: "For to well protect thee / from her do I know an art."


s: Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Now offer, stately Queen,


s: What play soe'er thou mayest. / And harder had it been,


s: Yet would I all have ventured / for all thy beauty's sake.


s: My head I'll willing forfeit / or thyself my wife I'll make."


s: When therefore the Queen Brunhild / heard how the matter stood


s: The play she begged to hasten, / as indeed she should.


s: She bade her servants fetch her / therefor apparel trim,


s: A battle-tunic silken / the maid upon her drew,


s: That in ne'er a contest / weapon pierced through,


s: Of skins from land of Libya, / and structure rare and fine;


s: And brilliant bands embroidered / might you see upon it shine.


s: Meanwhile were the strangers / jibed with many a threat;


s: Dankwart and Hagen, / their hearts began to beat.


s: How here the king should prosper / were they of doubtful mood,


s: The while did also Siegfried / the thane beyond compare,


s: Before 'twas marked by any, / unto the ship repair,


s: Where he found his sightless mantle / that did hidden lie,


s: Thither back he hied him / and found great company


s: About the queen who ordered / what the high play should be.


s: There went he all in secret; / so cunningly 'twas done,


s: Of all around were standing / perceived him never any one.


s: The ring it was appointed / wherein the play should be


s: 'Fore many a keen warrior / who the same should see.


s: More than seven hundred / were seen their weapons bear,


s: That whoso were the victor / they might sure the same declare.


s: Thither was come Brunhild; / all armed she did stand


s: Like as she were to combat / for many a royal land;


s: Upon her silken tunic / were gold bars many a one,


s: And glowing 'mid the armor / her flesh of winsome color shone.


s: Then followed her attendants / and with them thither brought


s: At once a shield full stately, / of pure red gold 'twas wrought,


s: With steel-hard bands for facings, / full mickle 'twas and broad,


s: To hold the shield securely / a well-wrought band there was,


s: Full many a ray their lustre / shot round against the gold.


s: The shield was 'neath the boss-point, / as to us is said,


s: Good three spans in thickness, / which should bear the maid.


s: Of steel 'twas wrought so richly / and had of gold such share,


s: That chamberlain and fellows / three the same scarce could bear.


s: When the doughty Hagen / the shield saw thither brought,


s: Spake the knight of Tronje, / and savage was his thought:


s: "Where art thou now, King Gunther? / Shall we thus lose our life!


s: List more of her apparel; / she had a goodly store.


s: Of silk of Azagang / a tunic made she wore,


s: All bedight full richly; / amid its color shone


s: Then brought they for the lady, / large and heavy there,


s: As she was wont to hurl it, / a sharply-pointed spear;


s: Strong and massive was it, / huge and broad as well,


s: And at both its edges / it cut with devastation fell.


s: To know the spear was heavy / list ye wonders more:


s: The heart of noble Gunther / thereat began to fill with fear.


s: Within his soul he thought him: / "What pickle am I in?


s: Of hell the very Devil, / how might he save his skin?


s: Might I at home in Burgundy / safe and living be,


s: Then spake Hagen's brother / the valiant Dankwart:


s: "In truth this royal journey / doth sorely grieve my heart.


s: "It rueth me full sorely / that I came to this land.


s: And had my brother Hagen / his good sword in hand,


s: And had I mine to help him, / a bit more gently then,


s: "And know it of a certain / to lord it thus they'd cease;


s: E'en though oaths a thousand / I'd sworn to keep the peace,


s: Before that I'd see perish / my dear lord shamefully,


s: Amid the souls departed / this fair maid herself should be."


s: "Well should we unhampered / quit at last this land,"


s: Spake his brother Hagen, / "did we in armor stand,


s: Such as we need for battle, / and bore we broadswords good:


s: Well heard the noble maiden / what the warriors spoke.


s: Back athwart her shoulder / she sent a smiling look:


s: "Now thinks he him so valiant, / so let them armed stand;


s: When they their swords received, / as the maiden said,


s: The full valiant Dankwart / with joy his face grew red.


s: "Now play they what them pleaseth," / cried the warrior brave;


s: The royal Brunhild's prowess / with terror was it shown.


s: Into the ring they bore her / in sooth a ponderous stone,


s: Great and all unwieldy, / huge it was and round:


s: To put this was her custom / after trial with the spear.


s: Thereat the men of Burgundy / began to quake with fear.


s: "Alack! Alack!" quoth Hagen, / "what seeks the king for bride?


s: Beneath in hell 'twere better / the Devil had her by his side!"


s: On her white arms the flowing / sleeves she backward flung,


s: Then with grasp of power / the shield in hand she swung,


s: And spear poised high above her. / So did the contest start.


s: Gunther and Siegfried / saw Brunhild's ire with falling heart.


s: And were it not that Siegfried / a ready help did bring,


s: Surely then had perished / beneath her hand the king.


s: There went he unperceived / and the king's hand did touch.


s: Gunther at his cunning / artifice was troubled much.


s: "What is that hath touched me?" / thought the monarch keen.


s: Then gazed he all around him: / none was there to be seen.


s: A voice spake: "Siegfried is it, / a friend that holds thee dear.


s: "Thy shield in hand now give me / and leave it me to bear,


s: And do thou rightly mark thee / what thou now shalt hear.


s: Now make thyself the motions, / --the power leave to me."


s: "Now secret keep my cunning, / let none e'er know the same:


s: Then shall the royal maiden / here find but little game


s: Of glory to win from thee, / as most to her is dear.


s: Behold now how the lady / stands before thee void of fear."


s: The spear the stately maiden / with might and main did wield,


s: And huge and broad she hurled it / upon the new-made shield,


s: That on his arm did carry / the son of Siegelind;


s: Beneath its force they stumbled, / did both those men of might;


s: From mouth of the full doughty / Siegfried burst the blood.


s: Full soon he yet recovered; / then seized the warrior good


s: The spear that from her strong arm / thus his shield had rent,


s: He thought: "To pierce the maiden / were but small glory earned,"


s: Against her mail-clad body / he made the shaft to bound,


s: And with such might he sent it / full loud her armor did resound.


s: The sparks as if in stormwind / from mail-rings flew around.


s: So mightily did hurl it / the son of Siegmund


s: That she with all her power / could not the shaft withstand.


s: But to her feet full sudden / had sprung Brunhild fair.


s: "A shot, O noble Gunther, / befitting hero rare."


s: She weened himself had done it, / and all unaided he,


s: Nor wot she one far mightier / was thither come so secretly.


s: Then did she go full sudden, / wrathful was her mood,


s: A stone full high she heaved / the noble maiden good,


s: And the same far from her / with might and main she swung:


s: The stone, when it had fallen, / lay fathoms twelve from there,


s: And yet did spring beyond it / herself the maiden fair.


s: Then where the stone was lying / thither Siegfried went:


s: Gunther feigned to move it, / but by another arm 'twas sent.


s: A valiant man was Siegfried / full powerful and tall.


s: The stone then cast he farther, / and farther sprang withal.


s: From those his arts so cunning / had he of strength such store


s: That as he leaped he likewise / the weight of royal Gunther bore.


s: And when the leap was ended / and fallen was the stone,


s: Then saw they ne'er another / but Gunther alone.


s: Brunhild the fair maiden, / red grew she in wrath:


s: Siegfried yet had warded / from royal Gunther surest death.


s: Unto her attendants / she spake in loud command,


s: When she saw 'cross the circle / the king unvanquished stand.


s: "Come hither quick, my kinsmen, / and ye that wait on me;


s: Henceforth unto Gunther / shall all be pledged faithfully."


s: Offered himself in service / full many a valiant knight.


s: They weened that he had conquered / in trial by his proper might.


s: He gave her loving greeting, / right courteous was he.


s: Then by the hand she took him, / the maiden praiseworthy,


s: In pledge that all around him / was his to have and hold.


s: Whereat rejoiced Hagen / the warrior valorous and bold.


s: Into the spacious palace / with her thence to go


s: Bade she the noble monarch. / When they had done so,


s: Then still greater honors / unto the knight were shown.


s: Dankwart and Hagen, / right willingly they saw it done.


s: Siegfried the valiant, / by no means was he slow,


s: His sightless mantle did he / away in safety stow.


s: Then went he again thither / where many a lady sat.


s: He spake unto the monarch-- / full cunningly was done all that:


s: "Why bidest thus, my master? / Wilt not the play begin,


s: To which so oft hath challenged / thee the noble queen?


s: Let us soon have example / what may the trial be."


s: As knew he naught about it, / did the knight thus cunningly.


s: Then spake the queen unto him: / "How hath this ever been,


s: That of the play, Sir Siegfried, / nothing thou hast seen,


s: Wherein hath been the victor / Gunther with mighty hand?"


s: Thereto gave answer Hagen / a grim knight of Burgundian land.


s: Spake he: "There dost thou, Lady, / think ill without a cause:


s: By the ship down yonder / the noble Siegfried was,


s: The while the lord of Rhineland / in play did vanquish thee:


s: "A joy to me these tidings," / the doughty Siegfried spoke,


s: "That so thy haughty spirit / is brought beneath the yoke,


s: And that yet one there liveth / master to be of thine.


s: Now shalt thou, noble maiden, / us follow thither to the Rhine."


s: Then spake the maiden shapely: / "It may not yet be so.


s: All my men and kindred / first the same must know.


s: In sooth not all so lightly / can I quit my home.


s: First must I bid my trusty / warriors that they hither come."


s: Then bade she messengers / quickly forth to ride,


s: And summoned in her kindred / and men from every side.


s: Without delay she prayed them / to come to Isenstein,


s: And bade them all be given / fit apparel rare and fine.


s: Then might ye see daily / 'twixt morn and eventide


s: Unto Brunhild's castle / many a knight to ride.


s: "God wot, God wot," quoth Hagen, / "we do an evil thing,


s: To tarry here while Brunhild / doth thus her men together bring.


s: "If now into this country / their good men they've brought


s: --What thing the queen intendeth / thereof know we naught:


s: Belike her wrath ariseth, / and we are men forlorn--


s: Then to be our ruin / were the noble maiden born."


s: Then spake the doughty Siegfried: / "That matter leave to me.


s: Whereof thou now art fearful, / I'll never let it be.


s: Ready help I'll bring thee / hither unto this land,


s: "Of me shalt thou ask not: / from hence will I fare.


s: May God of thy good honor / meanwhile have a care.


s: I come again right quickly / with a thousand men for thee,


s: The very best of warriors / hitherto are known to me."


s: "Then tarry not unduly," / thus the monarch said.


s: "Glad we are full fairly / of this thy timely aid."


s: He spake: "Till I come to thee / full short shall be my stay.


s: That thou thyself hast sent me / shalt thou unto Brunhild say."


s: How Siegfried fared to his Knights, the Nibelungen


s: Thence went then Siegfried / out through the castle door


s: In his sightless mantle / to a boat upon the shore.


s: As Siegmund's son doth board it / him no mortal sees;


s: And quickly off he steers it / as were it wafted by the breeze.


s: No one saw the boatman, / yet rapid was the flight


s: Of the boat forth speeding / driven by Siegfried's might.


s: They weened that did speed it / a swiftly blowing wind:


s: No, 'twas Siegfried sped it, / the son of fairest Siegelind.


s: In that one day-time / and the following night


s: Came he to a country / by dint of mickle might,


s: Long miles a hundred distant, / and something more than this:


s: The Nibelungen were its people / where the mighty hoard was his.


s: Alone did fare the hero / unto an island vast


s: Whereon the boat full quickly / the gallant knight made fast.


s: Of a castle then bethought him / high upon a hill,


s: Then came he to the portals / that locked before him stood.


s: They guarded well their honor / as people ever should.


s: At the door he gan a-knocking, / for all unknown was he.


s: But full well 'twas guarded, / and within it he did see


s: A giant who the castle / did guard with watchful eye,


s: And near him did at all times / his good weapons lie.


s: He spake: "A bold knight-errant / am I; unlock the gate.


s: Else will I from without here / disturbance rare create


s: For all who'd fain lie quiet / and their rest would take."


s: Wrathful grew the Porter / as in this wise Siegfried spake.


s: Now did the giant valorous / his good armor don,


s: And placed on head his helmet; / then the full doughty man


s: His shield up-snatched quickly / and gate wide open swung.


s: How sore was he enraged / as himself upon Siegfried he flung!


s: 'How dared he thus awaken / brave knights within the hall?'


s: The blows in rapid showers / from his hand did fall.


s: Thereat the noble stranger / began himself to shield.


s: For so a club of iron / the Porter's mighty arm did wield,


s: That splinters flew from buckler, / and Siegfried stood aghast


s: From fear that this same hour / was doomed to be his last,


s: So mightily the Porter's / blows about him fell.


s: So fiercely did they struggle / that castle far within


s: And hall where slept the Nibelungen / echoed back the din.


s: But Siegfried pressed the Porter / and soon he had him bound.


s: In all the land of Nibelungen / the story soon was bruited round.


s: When the grim sound of fighting / afar the place had filled,


s: Alberich did hear it, / a Dwarf full brave and wild.


s: He donned his armor deftly, / and running thither found


s: This so noble stranger / where he the doughty Porter bound.


s: Alberich was full wrathy, / thereto a man of power.


s: Coat of mail and helmet / he on his body wore,


s: And in his hand a heavy / scourge of gold he swung.


s: Seven knobs thick and heavy / on the club's end were seen,


s: Wherewith the shield that guarded / the knight that was so keen


s: He battered with such vigor / that pieces from it brake.


s: The shield that all was battered / from his hand he flung;


s: And into sheath, too, thrust he / his sword so good and long.


s: For his trusty chamberlain / he did not wish to slay,


s: And in such case he could not / grant his anger fullest sway.


s: With but his hands so mighty / at Alberich he ran.


s: By the beard then seized he / the gray and aged man,


s: And in such manner pulled it / that he full loud did roar.


s: The youthful hero's conduct / Alberich did trouble sore.


s: Loud cried the valiant steward: / "Have mercy now on me.


s: And might I other's vassal / than one good hero's be,


s: To whom to be good subject / I an oath did take,


s: Until my death I'd serve thee." / Thus the man of cunning spake.


s: Alberich then bound he / as the giant before.


s: The mighty arm of Siegfried / did trouble him full sore.


s: The Dwarf began to question: / "Thy name, what may it be?"


s: "I joy to hear such tidings," / Dwarf Alberich replied.


s: "Well now have I found thee / in knightly prowess tried,


s: And with goodly reason / lord o'er lands to be.


s: I'll do whate'er thou biddest, / wilt thou only give me free."


s: Then spake his master Siegfried: / "Quickly shalt thou go,


s: And bring me knights hither, / the best we have to show,


s: A thousand Nibelungen, / to stand before their lord."


s: Wherefore thus he wished it, / spake he never yet a word.


s: The giant and Alberich / straightway he unbound.


s: Then ran Alberich quickly / where the knights he found.


s: The warriors of Nibelung / he wakened full of fear.


s: Quoth he: "Be up, ye heroes, / before Siegfried shall ye appear."


s: From their couches sprang they / and ready were full soon,


s: Clothed well in armor / a thousand warriors boon,


s: And went where they found standing / Siegfried their lord.


s: Then was a mickle greeting / courteously in act and word.


s: Candles many were lighted, / and sparkling wine he drank.


s: That they came so quickly, / therefor he all did thank.


s: Quoth he: "Now shall ye with me / from hence across the flood."


s: Thereto he found full ready / the heroes valiant and good.


s: Good thirty hundred warriors / soon had hither pressed,


s: From whom were then a thousand / taken of the best.


s: He spake: "Ye goodly nobles, / that would I have you hear,


s: In full costly raiment / shall ye at court appear,


s: For yonder must there see us / full many a fair lady.


s: Therefore shall your bodies / dight in good apparel be."


s: Upon a morning early / went they on their way.


s: What host of brave companions / bore Siegfried company!


s: Good steeds took they with them / and garments rich to wear,


s: And did in courtly fashion / unto Brunhild's country fare.


s: As gazed from lofty parapet / women fair to see,


s: Spake the queen unto them: / "Knows any who they be,


s: Whom I see yonder sailing / upon the sea afar?


s: Rich sails their ships do carry, / whiter than snow they are."


s: Then spake the king of Rhineland: / "My good men they are,


s: That on my journey hither / left I lying near.


s: I've sent to call them to me: / now are they come, O Queen."


s: With full great amazing / were the stately strangers seen.


s: There saw they Siegfried / out on the ship's prow stand


s: Clad in costly raiment, / and with him his good band.


s: Then spake Queen Brunhild: / "Good monarch, let me know,


s: He spake: "Thou shalt to meet them / before the palace go,


s: So that we see them gladly / they may surely know."


s: Then did the royal lady / fulfil the king's behest.


s: Yet Siegfried in the greeting / was not honored with the rest.


s: Lodgings were made ready / and their armor ta'en in hand.


s: Then was such host of strangers / come into that land,


s: On all sides they jostled / from the great company.


s: Then would the knights full valiant / homeward fare to Burgundy.


s: Then spake Queen Brunhild: / "In favor would I hold


s: Who might now apportion / my silver and my gold


s: To my guests and the monarch's, / for goodly store I have."


s: Thereto an answer Dankwart, / Giselher's good warrior, gave:


s: "Full noble royal Lady, / give me the keys to hold.


s: I trow I'll so divide it," / spake the warrior bold,


s: "If blame there be about it, / that shall be mine alone."


s: When now Hagen's brother / the treasure did command,


s: So many a lavish bounty / dealt out the hero's hand,


s: Whoso mark did covet, / to him was given such store


s: That all who once were poor men / might joyous live for evermore.


s: In sooth good pounds a hundred / gave he to each and all.


s: A host in costly raiment / were seen before the hall,


s: Who in equal splendor / ne'er before were clad.


s: When the queen did hear it, / verily her heart was sad.


s: Then spake the royal lady: / "Good King, it little needs,


s: That now thy chamberlain / of all my stately weeds


s: Leave no whit remaining, / and squander clean my gold.


s: Would any yet prevent it, / him would I aye in favor hold.


s: "He deals with hand so lavish, / in sooth doth ween the thane


s: That death I've hither summoned; / but longer I'll remain.


s: Eke trow I well to spend all / my sire hath left to me."


s: Ne'er found queen a chamberlain / of such passing generosity.


s: Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Lady, be thou told,


s: That the king of Rhineland / raiment hath and gold


s: So plenteous to lavish / that we may well forego


s: To carry with us homeward / aught that Brunhild can bestow."


s: "No; as high ye hold me," / spake the queen again,


s: "Let me now have filled / coffers twice times ten


s: Of gold and silken raiment, / that may deal out my hand,


s: When that we come over / into royal Gunther's land."


s: The while her own chamberlain / must be standing near:


s: For no whit would she trust it / unto Giselher's man.


s: Whereat Gunther and Hagen / heartily to laugh began.


s: Then spake the royal lady: / "To whom leave I my lands?


s: First must they now be given / in charge from out our hands."


s: Then spake the noble monarch: / "Whomsoe'er it pleaseth thee,


s: Bid him now come hither, / the same we'll let our Warden be."


s: One of her highest kindred / near by the lady spied,


s: --He was her mother's brother-- / to him thus spake the maid:


s: "Now be to thee entrusted / the castles and eke the land,


s: Until that here shall govern / Gunther the king by his own hand."


s: Trusty knights two thousand / from her company


s: Chose she to journey with her / unto Burgundy,


s: Beyond those thousand warriors / from Nibelungenland.


s: Six and eighty ladies / led they thence with her,


s: Thereto good hundred maidens / that full beauteous were.


s: They tarried no whit longer, / for they to part were fain.


s: Of those they left behind them, / O how they all to weep began!


s: In high befitting fashion / quitted she her land:


s: She kissed of nearest kindred / all who round did stand.


s: After fair leave-taking / they went upon the sea.


s: Back to her father's country / came never more that fair lady.


s: Then heard you on the journey / many a kind of play:


s: Every pleasant pastime / in plenty had they.


s: Soon had they for their journey / a wind from proper art:


s: So with full great rejoicing / did they from that land depart.


s: Yet would she on the journey / not be the monarch's spouse:


s: But was their pleasant pastime / reserved for his own house


s: At Worms within his castle / at a high festival,


s: Whither anon full joyous / came they with their warriors all.


s: When that they had journeyed / full nine days on their way,


s: Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Now hear what I shall say.


s: We tarry with the tidings / for Worms upon the Rhine.


s: At Burgundy already / should now be messengers of thine."


s: Then outspake King Gunther: / "There hast thou spoken true.


s: And this selfsame journey, / none were so fit thereto


s: As thyself, friend Hagen. / So do thou now ride on.


s: Thereto answered Hagen: / "Poor messenger am I.


s: Let me be treasure-warden. / Upon the ships I'll stay


s: Near by the women rather, / their guardian to be,


s: Till that we bring them safely / into the land of Burgundy.


s: "Now do thou pray Siegfried / that he the message bear,


s: For he's a knight most fitting / this thing to have in care.


s: If he decline the journey, / then shalt thou courteously,


s: For kindness to thy sister, / pray that he not unwilling be."


s: He sent for the good warrior / who came at his command.


s: He spake: "Since we are nearing / home in my own land,


s: So should I send a message / to sister dear of mine


s: And eke unto my mother, / that we are nigh unto the Rhine.


s: "Thereto I pray thee, Siegfried, / now meet my wish aright,"


s: Spake the noble monarch: / "I'll ever thee requite."


s: But Siegfried still refused it, / the full valiant man,


s: Till that King Gunther / sorely to beseech began.


s: He spake: "Now bear the message, / in favor unto me


s: And eke unto Kriemhild / a maiden fair to see,


s: That the stately maiden / help me thy service pay."


s: When had heard it Siegfried, / ready was the knight straightway.


s: "Now what thou wilt, command me: / 'twill not be long delayed.


s: This thing will I do gladly / for sake of that fair maid.


s: Why should I aught refuse her, / who all my heart hath won?


s: "Then say unto my mother, / Ute the queen,


s: That we on our journey / in joyous mood have been.


s: Let know likewise my brothers / what fortune us befell.


s: Eke unto all our kinsmen / shalt thou then merry tidings tell.


s: "Unto my fair sister / shalt thou all confide.


s: From me bring her fair compliment / and from Brunhild beside,


s: And eke unto our household / and all my warriors brave.


s: "And say as well to Ortwein / nephew dear of mine


s: That he do bid make ready / at Worms beside the Rhine.


s: And all my other kindred, / to them made known shall be,


s: With Brunhild I am minded / to keep a great festivity.


s: "And say unto my sister, / when that she hath learned


s: That I am to my country / with many a guest returned,


s: She shall have care to welcome / my bride in fitting way.


s: So all my thoughts of Kriemhild / will be her service to repay."


s: Then did Sir Siegfried / straightway in parting greet


s: High the Lady Brunhild, / as 'twas very meet,


s: And all her company; / then toward the Rhine rode he.


s: Nor in this world a better / messenger might ever be.


s: With four and twenty warriors / to Worms did he ride.


s: When soon it was reported / the king came not beside,


s: Then did all the household / of direst news have dread:


s: Then sprang they from the saddle, / full high they were of mood.


s: Full soon before them Giselher / the prince so youthful stood,


s: And Gernot his brother. / How quickly then spake he,


s: When he the royal Gunther / saw not in Siegfried's company:


s: "Be thou welcome, Siegfried. / Yet shalt thou tell to me,


s: Why the king my brother / cometh not with thee.


s: Brunhild's prowess is it / hath taken him, I ween;


s: And so this lofty wooing / hath naught but our misfortune been."


s: "Now cease such ill foreboding. / To you and friends hath sent


s: My royal companion / his good compliment.


s: Safe and sound I left him; / myself did he command


s: That I should be his herald / with tidings hither to your land.


s: "Quickly shall ye see to it, / how that it may be,


s: That I the queen and likewise / your fair sister see.


s: From Gunther and Brunhild / the message will I tell


s: Then spake the youthful Giselher: / "So shalt thou go to her:


s: Here dost thou on my sister / a favor high confer.


s: In sooth she's mickle anxious / how't with my brother be.


s: The maid doth see thee gladly, / --of that will I be surety."


s: Then outspake Sir Siegfried: / "If serve her aught I can,


s: That same thing most willing / in truth it shall be done.


s: Who now will tell the ladies / I would with them confer?"


s: Then was therein Giselher / the stately knight his messenger.


s: Giselher the valiant / unto his mother kind


s: And sister spake the tidings / when he the twain did find:


s: "To us returned is Siegfried, / the hero of Netherlands


s: Unto the Rhine he cometh / at my brother Gunther's command.


s: "He bringeth us the tidings / how't with the king doth fare.


s: Now shall ye give permission / that he 'fore you appear.


s: He'll tell the proper tidings / from Isenland o'er the main."


s: Yet mickle sad forebodings / did trouble still the ladies twain.


s: They sprang for their attire / and donned it nothing slow.


s: Then bade they that Siegfried / to court should thither go.


s: That did he right willing / for he gladly them did see.


s: Kriemhild the noble maiden / spake to him thus graciously.


s: "Welcome be, Sir Siegfried, / thou knight right praiseworthy.


s: Yet where may King Gunther / my noble brother be?


s: It is through Brunhild's prowess, / I ween, he is forlorn.


s: Alack of me, poor maiden, / that I into this world was born!"


s: The valiant knight then answered: / "Give me news-bringer's meed


s: Know ye, fairest ladies, / ye weep without a need.


s: I left him well and happy, / that would I have you know;


s: They two have sent me hither / to bear the tidings unto you.


s: "And offer thee good service / both his bride and he,


s: My full noble lady, / in love and loyalty.


s: Now give over weeping, / for straight will they be here."


s: They had for many a season / heard not a tale to them so dear.


s: With fold of snow-white garment / then her eyes so bright


s: Dried she after weeping. / She gan thank the knight


s: Who of these glad tidings / had been the messenger.


s: Then was a mickle sorrow / and cause of weeping ta'en from her.


s: She bade the knight be seated, / which he did willingly.


s: Then spake the lovely maiden: / "It were a joy to me,


s: Could I the message-bringer / with gold of mine repay.


s: "If I alone were ruler," / spake he, "o'er thirty lands,


s: Then bade she her chamberlain / forth for message-money go.


s: Four and twenty armlets / with stones of precious kind,


s: These gave she him for guerdon. / 'Twas not the hero's mind,


s: That he himself should keep them: / he dealt them all around


s: Unto her fair attendants / whom he within the chamber found.


s: Of service, too, her mother / did kindly offer make.


s: "Then have I more to tell you," / the keen warrior spake:


s: "Of what the king doth beg you, / when comes he to the Rhine.


s: Wilt thou perform it, lady, / then will he e'er to thee incline.


s: "The noble guests he bringeth, / --this heard I him request,


s: That ye shall well receive them; / and furthermore his hest,


s: That ye ride forth to meet him / 'fore Worms upon the strand.


s: So have ye from the monarch / faithfully his high command."


s: Then spake the lovely maiden: / "Full ready there am I.


s: If I in aught can serve him, / I'll never that deny.


s: In all good faith and kindness / shall it e'er be done."


s: Then deeper grew her color / that from increase of joy she won.


s: Never was royal message / better received before.


s: The lady sheer had kissed him, / if 'twere a thing to dare.


s: From those high ladies took he / his leave in courteous wise.


s: Then did they there in Burgundy / in way as Siegfried did advise.


s: Sindold and Hunold / and Rumold the thane


s: In truth were nothing idle, / but wrought with might and main


s: To raise the sitting-places / 'fore Worms upon the strand.


s: There did the royal Steward / busy 'mid the workers stand.


s: Ortwein and Gere / thought longer not to bide,


s: But sent unto their kinsmen / forth on every side.


s: They told of festive meeting / there that was to be;


s: And deck themselves to meet them / did the maidens fair to see.


s: The walls throughout the palace / were dight full richly all,


s: Looking unto the strangers; / and King Gunther's hall


s: Full well with seats and tables / for many a noble guest.


s: And great was the rejoicing / in prospect of the mighty feast.


s: Then rode from every quarter / hither through the land


s: The three monarchs' kinsmen, / who there were called to hand,


s: That they might be in waiting / for those expected there.


s: Then from enfolding covers / took they store of raiments rare.


s: Among the folk so many / in the land of Burgundy.


s: Then spake the fair Kriemhild: / "Of my good maidens, ye


s: Who at this reception / shall bear me company,


s: From out the chests now seek ye / attire the very best.


s: So shall praise and honor / be ours from many a noble guest."


s: Then came the knights also / and bade bring forth to view


s: The saddles richly furnished / of ruddy golden hue,


s: That ladies fair should ride on / at Worms unto the Rhine.


s: Better horse-equipment / could never artisan design.


s: Heigh-ho! What gold all glancing / from the steeds there shone!


s: Sparkled from their bridles / full many a precious stone.


s: Gold-wrought stools for mounting / and shining carpets good


s: Brought they for the ladies: / joyous were they all of mood.


s: Within the court the heroes / bedight with trappings due


s: Awaited noble maidens, / as I have told to you.


s: A narrow band from saddle / went round each horse's breast,


s: Its beauty none could tell you: / of silk it was the very best.


s: Six and eighty ladies / came in manner meet


s: Wearing each a wimple. / Kriemhild there to greet


s: They went, all fair to look on, / in shining garments clad.


s: Four and fifty were they / of the land of Burgundy,


s: And they were eke the noblest / that ever you might see.


s: Adorned with shining hair-bands / the fair-haired maids came on.


s: What now the king desired, / that most carefully was done.


s: Made of stuffs all costly, / the best you might desire,


s: Before the gallant strangers / wore they such rich attire


s: As well did fit the beauty / of many amid the throng.


s: Of sable and of ermine / many a dress was worn.


s: Arms and hands a many / did they full well adorn


s: With rings o'er silken dresses / that there did clothe them well.


s: Full many a well-wrought girdle / in long and costly braid


s: About the shining garments / by many a hand was laid


s: On dress of precious ferrandine / of silk from Araby.


s: And full of high rejoicing / were those maids of high degree.


s: With clasps before her bosom / was many a fair maid


s: Laced full beauteously. / She might well be sad,


s: Whose full beaming color / vied not with weeds she wore.


s: Such a stately company / ne'er possessed a queen before.


s: When now the lovely maidens / attired you might see,


s: Soon were those beside them / should bear them company,


s: Of warriors high-hearted / a full mickle band.


s: On yonder side Rhine river / they saw a stately band,


s: The king and host of strangers, / ride down unto the strand,


s: And also many a lady / sitting on charger led.


s: By those who should receive them / was goodly preparation made.


s: Soon they of Isenland / the ship had entered then,


s: And with them Siegfried's vassals / the Nibelungen men;


s: They strained unto the shore / with untiring hand


s: When they beheld the monarch's / friends upon the farther strand.


s: Now list ye eke the story / of the stately queen,


s: Ute, how at her bidding / ladies fair were seen


s: Forth coming from the castle / to ride her company.


s: Then came to know each other / full many a knight and fair lady.


s: The Margrave Gere / but to the castle gate


s: The bridle held for Kriemhild; / the keen Siegfried did wait


s: Thenceforward upon her. / She was a beauteous maid.


s: Well was the knight's good service / by the lady since repaid.


s: Ortwein the valiant / Queen Ute rode beside,


s: And many a knight full gallant / was stately lady's guide.


s: At such a high reception, / that may we say, I ween,


s: Was ne'er such host of ladies / in company together seen.


s: With show of rider's talent / the tilt was carried on,


s: For might the knights full gallant / naught fitting leave undone,


s: Then helped was many a lady / fair from charger to alight.


s: The king had then come over / and many a stranger too.


s: Heigh-ho! What strong shafts splintered / before the ladies flew!


s: Heigh-ho! What din of costly / arms resounded o'er the field.


s: The full lovely maidens / upon the shore did stand,


s: As Gunther with the strangers / stepped upon the land;


s: He himself did Brunhild / by the hand lead on.


s: Then went Lady Kriemhild / with fullest courtesy due,


s: To greet the Lady Brunhild / and her retinue.


s: And saw ye each the head-band / with fair hand move aside


s: Then spake the maiden Kriemhild, / a high-born lady she:


s: "Unto this our country / shalt thou right welcome be,


s: To me and to my mother / and each true friend of mine,


s: That we here have with us." / Then each did unto each incline.


s: Within their arms the ladies / oft-times clasped each other.


s: Like this fond reception / heard ye of ne'er another,


s: As when both the ladies / there the bride did greet,


s: When all of Brunhild's ladies / were come upon the strand,


s: Then was there taken / full fondly by the hand


s: By the warriors stately / many a fair lady.


s: Before the Lady Brunhild / the train of fair maids might ye see.


s: Before their greetings ended / a mickle time was gone,


s: For lips of rosy color / were kissed there, many a one.


s: Long stood they together, / the royal ladies high,


s: And so to look upon them / pleased many a noble warrior's eye.


s: Then spied with probing eye, too, / who before did hear


s: That till then was never / aught beheld so fair,


s: As those two royal ladies: / they found it was no lie.


s: In all their person might ye / no manner of deceit espy.


s: Who there could spy fair ladies / and judge of beauty rare,


s: They praised the wife of Gunther / that she was passing fair;


s: Yet spake again the wise men / who looked with keener gaze,


s: Then went unto each other / maid and fair lady.


s: Full many a fair one might ye / in rich adornment see.


s: There stood rich tents a many, / silken great and small,


s: Of the king's high kindred / a mighty press there was.


s: Then bade they Brunhild / and Kriemhild on to pass,


s: And with them all the ladies, / where they in shade might be.


s: Thither did bring them warriors / of the land of Burgundy.


s: When now the strangers also / on horse sat every one,


s: Plenteous knightly tilting / at shield was there begun.


s: Above the field rose dust-clouds, / as had the country been


s: All in flames a-burning; / who bore the honors there was seen.


s: Looked on full many a maiden / as the knights did sport them so.


s: Meseemeth that Sir Siegfried / full many a to-and-fro


s: Did ride with his good followers / along 'fore many a tent.


s: With him of Nibelungen / a thousand stately men there went.


s: Then came of Tronje Hagen, / whom the king did send;


s: He bade in pleasing manner / the tourney have an end,


s: Before in dust be buried / all the ladies fair.


s: And ready to obey him / soon the courteous strangers were.


s: Then spake Sir Gernot: / "Now let the chargers stand,


s: Until the air is cooler, / for we must be at hand


s: As escort for fair ladies / unto the stately hall;


s: And will the king take saddle, / so let him find you ready all."


s: When now the sound of tourney / o'er all the field was spent,


s: Then went for pleasant pastime / 'neath many a lofty tent


s: The knights unto the ladies, / and willing thither hied.


s: Just before the evening / when the sun was in the west,


s: And the air grew cooler, / no longer did they rest,


s: But both knights and ladies / unto the castle passed.


s: And eyes in loving glances / on many a beauteous maid were cast.


s: By hand of goodly warrior / many a coat was rent,


s: For in the country's custom / they tourneyed as they went,


s: Until before the palace / the monarch did dismount.


s: They tended fairest ladies / as knights high-spirited are wont.


s: After fairest greeting / the queens did part again.


s: Dame Ute and her daughter, / thither passed the twain


s: With train of fair attendants / unto a hall full wide.


s: Din of merrymaking / heard ye there on every side.


s: Arranged were sitting-places / where the king would be


s: With his guests at table. / By him might ye see


s: Standing the fair Brunhild. / She wore a royal crown


s: Seats for all the people / at many a spacious board


s: And by the monarch saw ye / sitting many a stately guest.


s: The royal host's attendants / in basins golden red


s: Carried water forward. / And should it e'er be said


s: By any that a better / service did receive


s: Ever guests of monarch, / I never could such thing believe.


s: Before the lord of Rhineland / with water was waited on,


s: Unto him Sir Siegfried, / as fitting was, had gone;


s: He called to mind a promise / that made by him had been


s: Ere that the Lady Brunhild / afar in Isenland he'd seen.


s: Thou'dst give to me thy sister. / Where now what thou hast sworn?


s: Then to his guest the monarch: / "Well hast thou minded me,


s: And by this hand shall never / false word plighted be.


s: To gain thy wish I'd help thee / in the way as best I know."


s: Bidden then was Kriemhild / forth unto the king to go.


s: With her full beauteous maidens / unto the Hall she passed.


s: Then sprang the youthful Giselher / adown the steps in haste


s: "Bid now these many maidens / wend their way again;