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diff --git a/7321.txt b/7321.txt new file mode 100644 index 0000000..ed70b47 --- /dev/null +++ b/7321.txt @@ -0,0 +1,18582 @@ +The Project Gutenberg EBook of The Nibelungenlied, by Unknown + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most +other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions +whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of +the Project Gutenberg License included with this eBook or online at +www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you'll have +to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this ebook. + +Title: The Nibelungenlied + Translated into Rhymed English Verse in the Metre of the Original + +Author: Unknown + +Translator: George Henry Needler + +Posting Date: February 11, 2015 [EBook #7321] +Release Date: January, 2005 +First Posted: April 13, 2003 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: ASCII + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE NIBELUNGENLIED *** + + + + +Produced by David Starner, Thomas Berger, and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + + + + + + + + + + +THE NIBELUNGENLIED + + +_Translated into Rhymed English Verse in the Metre of the Original_ + + +By + +George Henry Needler + +_Associate Professor of German in University College, Toronto_ + + * * * * * + +PREFACE + +This translation of the Nibelungenlied is published with the simple +purpose of placing one of the world's great epic poems within the reach +of English readers. Translations are at best but poor substitutes for +originals. A new translation of a poem implies also a criticism of those +that have preceded it. My apology for presenting this new English version +of the Nibelungenlied is that none of those hitherto made has reproduced +the metrical form of the original. In the hope of making the outlines of +the poem clearer for the modern reader, I have endeavored to supply in +the Introduction a historical background by summing up the results of +investigation into its origin and growth. The translation itself was +begun many years ago, when I studied the original under Zarncke in +Leipzig. + +G. H. N. + +University College, Toronto, September, 1904. + + * * * * * + +CONTENTS + +INTRODUCTION. + +I. THE NIBELUNGEN SAGA. + + 1. Origin of the Saga. + 2. The Northern Form of the Saga. + 3. The Saga as Preserved in the Nibelungenlied. + 4. Mythical Element and Historical Element. + +II. THE NIBELUNGENLIED. + + 1. The Manuscripts. + 2. Stages in the Evolution of the Poem. + 3. Character of the Poem. + 4. Later Forms of the Saga. + 5. Poem and Saga in Modern Literature. + 6. Modern German Translations. + 7. English Translations. + 8. Editions of the Nibelungenlied. + +THE NIBELUNGENLIED. + + FIRST ADVENTURE: Kriemhild's Dream. + SECOND ADVENTURE: Siegfried. + THIRD ADVENTURE: How Siegfried Came to Worms. + FOURTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried Fought with the Saxons. + FIFTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried first Saw Kriemhild. + SIXTH ADVENTURE: How Gunther Fared to Isenland to Brunhild. + SEVENTH ADVENTURE: How Gunther Won Brunhild. + EIGHTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried Fared to his Knights, the Nibelungen. + NINTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried was Sent to Worms. + TENTH ADVENTURE: How Brunhild was Received at Worms. + ELEVENTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried Came Home with his Wife. + TWELFTH ADVENTURE: How Gunther Bade Siegfried to the Feast. + THIRTEENTH ADVENTURE: How They Fared to the Feast. + FOURTEENTH ADVENTURE: How the Queens Berated Each Other. + FIFTEENTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried was Betrayed. + SIXTEENTH ADVENTURE: How Siegfried was Slain. + SEVENTEENTH ADVENTURE: How Kriemhild Mourned for Siegfried. + EIGHTEENTH ADVENTURE: How Sigmund Fared Home Again. + NINETEENTH ADVENTURE: How the Nibelungen Hoard was Brought to Worms. + TWENTIETH ADVENTURE: How King Etzel Sent for Kriemhild. + TWENTY-FIRST ADVENTURE: How Kriemhild Fared to the Huns. + TWENTY-SECOND ADVENTURE: How Etzel Kept the Wedding-feast. + TWENTY-THIRD ADVENTURE: How Kriemhild Thought to Avenge Her Wrong. + TWENTY-FOURTH ADVENTURE: How Werbel and Schwemmel Brought the Message. + TWENTY-FIFTH ADVENTURE: How the Knights all Fared to the Huns. + TWENTY-SIXTH ADVENTURE: How Gelfrat was Slain by Dankwart. + TWENTY-SEVENTH ADVENTURE: How They Came to Bechelaren. + TWENTY-EIGHTH ADVENTURE: How the Burgundians Came to Etzel's Castle. + TWENTY-NINTH ADVENTURE: How He Arose not before Her. + THIRTIETH ADVENTURE: How They Kept Guard. + THIRTY-FIRST ADVENTURE: How They Went to Mass. + THIRTY-SECOND ADVENTURE: How Bloedel was Slain. + THIRTY-THIRD ADVENTURE: How the Burgundians Fought with the Huns. + THIRTY-FOURTH ADVENTURE: How They Cast Out the Dead. + THIRTY-FIFTH ADVENTURE: How Iring was Slain. + THIRTY-SIXTH ADVENTURE: How the Queen Bade Set Fire to the Hall. + THIRTY-SEVENTH ADVENTURE: How the Margrave Ruediger was Slain. + THIRTY-EIGHTH ADVENTURE: How All Sir Dietrich's Knights were Slain. + THIRTY-NINTH ADVENTURE: How Gunther and Hagen and Kriemhild were Slain. + + * * * * * + +THE NIBELUNGENLIED + +I. THE NIBELUNGEN SAGA + +1. Origin of the Saga + +All the Aryan peoples have had their heroic age, the achievements of +which form the basis of later saga. For the Germans this was the period +of the Migrations, as it is called, in round numbers the two hundred +years from 400 to 600, at the close of which we find them settled in +those regions which they have, generally speaking, occupied ever since. +During these two centuries kaleidoscopic changes had been taking place in +the position of the various Germanic tribes. Impelled partly by a native +love of wandering, partly by the pressure of hostile peoples of other +race, they moved with astonishing rapidity hither and thither over the +face of Europe, generally in conflict with one another or buffeted by the +Romans in the west and south, and by the Huns in the east. In this stern +struggle for existence and search for a permanent place of settlement +some of them even perished utterly; amid the changing fortunes of all of +them deeds were performed that fixed themselves in the memory of the +whole people, great victories or great disasters became the subject of +story and song. We need only to recall such names as those of Ermanric +and Theodoric to remind ourselves what an important part was played by +the Germanic peoples of that Migration Period in the history of Europe. +During it a national consciousness was engendered, and in it we have the +faint beginnings of a national literature. Germanic saga rests almost +entirely upon the events of these two centuries, the fifth and sixth. +Although we get glimpses of the Germans during the four or five preceding +centuries, none of the historic characters of those earlier times have +been preserved in the national sagas. + +With these sagas based on history, however, have been mingled in most +cases primeval Germanic myths, possessions of the people from prehistoric +times. A most conspicuous example of this union of mythical and +originally historical elements is the Nibelungen saga, out of which grew +in course of time the great national epic, the Nibelungenlied. + +The Nibelungen saga is made up of two parts, on the one hand the mythical +story of Siegfried and on the other the story, founded on historic fact, +of the Burgundians. When and how the Siegfried myth arose it is +impossible to say; its origin takes us back into the impenetrable mists +of the unrecorded life of our Germanic forefathers, and its form was +moulded by the popular poetic spirit. The other part of the saga is based +upon the historic incident of the overthrow of the Burgundian kingdom by +the Huns in the year 437. This annihilation of a whole tribe naturally +impressed itself vividly upon the imagination of contemporaries. Then the +fact of history soon began to pass over into the realm of legend, and, +from causes which can no longer be determined, this tradition of the +vanished Burgundians became united with the mythical story of Siegfried. +This composite Siegfried-Burgundian saga then became a common possession +of the Germanic peoples, was borne with many of them to lands far distant +from the place of its origin, and was further moulded by each according +to its peculiar genius and surroundings. In the Icelandic Eddas, the +oldest of which we have as they were written down in the latter part of +the ninth century, are preserved the earliest records of the form it had +taken among the northern Germanic peoples. Our Nibelungenlied, which is +the chief source of our knowledge of the story as it developed in +Germany, dates from about the year 1200. These two versions, the Northern +and the German, though originating in this common source, had diverged +very widely in the centuries that elapsed between their beginning and the +time when the manuscripts were written in which they are preserved. Each +curtailed, re-arranged, or enlarged the incidents of the story in its own +way. The character of the chief actors and the motives underlying what we +may call the dramatic development assumed widely dissimilar forms. The +German Nibelungenlied may be read and appreciated as one of the world's +great epic poems without an acquaintance on the part of the reader with +the Northern version of the saga. In order, however, to furnish the +setting for a few episodes that would in that case remain either obscure +or colorless, and with a view to placing the readers of this translation +in a position to judge better the deeper significance of the epic as the +eloquent narrative of a thousand years of the life of the people among +whom it grew, the broad outlines of the saga in its Northern form will be +given here. + + +2. The Northern Form of the Saga + +Starting at the middle of the fifth century from the territory about +Worms on the Rhine where the Burgundians were overthrown, the saga soon +spread from the Franks to the other Germanic peoples. We have evidence of +its presence in northern Germany and Denmark. Allusions to it in the +Anglo-Saxon poem, the _Wanderer_, of the seventh century and in the great +Anglo-Saxon epic _Beowulf_ of a short time later, show us that it had +early become part of the national saga stock in England. Among the people +of Norway and Iceland it took root and grew with particular vigor. Here, +farthest away from its original home and least exposed to outward +influences, it preserved on the whole most fully its heathen Germanic +character, especially in its mythical part. By a fortunate turn of +events, too, the written record of it here is of considerably earlier +date than that which we have from Germany. The Eddas, as the extensive +collection of early Icelandic poems is called, are the fullest record of +Germanic mythology and saga that has been handed down to us, and in them +the saga of Siegfried and the Nibelungen looms up prominently. The +earliest of these poems date from about the year 850, and the most +important of them were probably written down within a couple of centuries +of that time. They are thus in part some three centuries older than the +German Nibelungenlied, and on the whole, too, they preserve more of the +original outlines of the saga. By bringing together the various episodes +of the saga from the Eddas and the Volsung saga, a prose account of the +mythical race of the Volsungs, we arrive at the following narrative. + +On their wanderings through the world the three gods Odin, Honir, and +Loki come to a waterfall where an otter is devouring a fish that it has +caught. Loki kills the otter with a stone, and they take off its skin. In +the evening they seek a lodging at the house of Hreidmar, to whom they +show the skin. Hreidmar recognizes it as that of his son, whom Loki has +killed when he had taken on the form of an otter. Assisted by his sons +Fafnir and Regin, Hreidmar seizes the three gods, and spares their lives +only on the promise that they will fill the skin, and also cover it +outwardly, with gold. Loki is sent to procure the ransom. With a net +borrowed from the sea-goddess Ran he catches at the waterfall the dwarf +Andvari in form of a fish and compels him to supply the required gold. +Andvari tries to keep back a ring, but this also Loki takes from him, +whereupon the dwarf utters a curse upon the gold and whosoever may +possess it. The ransom is now paid to Hreidmar; even the ring must, on +Hreidmar's demand, be given in order to complete the covering of the +otter's skin. Loki tells him of the curse connected with the ownership of +the gold. When Hreidmar refuses Fafnir and Regin a share in the treasure, +he is killed by Fafnir, who takes possession of the hoard to the +exclusion of Regin. In the form of a dragon Fafnir dwells on Gnita Heath +guarding the hoard, while Regin broods revenge. + +From Odin is descended King Volsung, who has a family of ten sons and one +daughter. The eldest son is Sigmund, twin-born with his sister Signy. +King Siggeir of Gautland sues for the hand of Signy, whom her father +gives to Siggeir against her will. In the midst of King Volsung's hall +stood a mighty oak-tree. As the wedding-feast is being held there enters +a stranger, an old man with one eye, his hat drawn down over his face and +bearing in his hand a sword. This sword he thrusts to the hilt into the +tree, saying that it shall belong to him who can draw it out again; after +which he disappears as he had come. All the guests try their strength in +vain upon the sword, but Sigmund alone is able to draw it forth. He +refuses to sell it to Siggeir for all his proffered gold. Siggeir plans +vengeance. He invites Volsung and his sons to Gautland, and returns home +thither with his bride Signy, who before going warns her father to be +upon his guard. + +At the appointed time King Volsung and his sons go as invited to +Gautland. In spite of Signy's repeated warning he will not flee from +danger, and falls in combat with Siggeir; his ten sons are taken +prisoners, and placed in stocks in the forest. For nine successive nights +a she-wolf comes and devours each night one of them, till only Sigmund +remains. By the aid of Signy he escapes. The she-wolf, it was said, was +the mother of Siggeir. + +To Sigmund, who has hidden in a wood, Signy sends her eldest boy of ten +years that Sigmund may test his courage and see if he is fit to be a +helper in seeking revenge. Neither he, however, nor his younger brother +stands the test. Signy sees that only a scion of the race of Volsung will +suffice, and accordingly disguises herself and lives three days with +Sigmund in the wood. From their union a son Sinfiotli is born, whom also, +after ten years, she sends out to Sigmund. He stands every test of +courage, and is trained by Sigmund, who thinks he is Siggeir's son. + +Bent on revenge, Sigmund repairs with Sinfiotli to Siggeir's castle. +After Sinfiotli has slain the king's two sons, he and Sigmund are +overpowered and condemned to be buried alive. With Sigmund's sword, +however, which Signy has managed to place in their hands, they cut their +way out, then set fire to Siggeir's hall. Signy comes forth and reveals +to Sigmund that Sinfiotli is their own son; and then, saying that her +work of revenge is complete and that she can live no longer, she returns +into the burning hall and perishes with Siggeir and all his race. + +Sigmund now returns home and rules as a mighty king. He marries Borghild, +who later kills Sinfiotli with a poisoned drink, and is cast away by +Sigmund. He then marries Hjordis. Lyngvi, the son of King Hunding, was +also a suitor and now invades Sigmund's land. The latter hews down many +of his enemies, until an old man with one eye, in hat and dark cloak, +interposes his spear, against which Sigmund's sword breaks in two. +Sigmund falls severely wounded. + +In the night Hjordis seeks the scene of the combat and finds Sigmund +still alive. He refuses to allow her to heal his wounds, saying that Odin +no longer wills that he swing the sword. He tells Hjordis to preserve +carefully the pieces of the broken sword; the son she bears in her womb +shall yet swing the sword when welded anew, and win thereby a glorious +name. At dawn Sigmund dies. Hjordis is borne off by Vikings and, after +the birth of her son, she becomes the wife of the Danish prince Alf. + +The son of Hjordis was called Sigurd. He grew up a boy of wondrous +strength and beauty, with eyes that sparkled brightly, and lived at the +court of King Hjalprek, the father of Alf. Regin, the dwarfish brother of +Fafnir, was his tutor. Regin welds together the pieces of the broken +sword Gram, so sharp and strong that with it Sigurd cleaves Regin's anvil +in twain. With men and ships that he has received from King Hjalprek +Sigurd goes against the sons of Hunding, whom he slays, thereby avenging +the death of his father. Regin has urged him to kill Fafnir and take +possession of the hoard. On the Gnita Heath he digs a ditch from which, +as the dragon Fafnir passes over it, he plunges the sword into his heart. +The dying Fafnir warns him of the curse attached to the possession of the +gold; also that Regin is to be guarded against. The latter bids him roast +the heart of Fafnir. While doing so he burns his finger by dipping it in +the blood to see if the heart is done, and to cool his finger puts it +into his mouth. Suddenly he is able to understand the language of the +birds in the wood. They warn him to beware of Regin, whom he straightway +slays. The birds tell him further of the beautiful valkyrie Brynhild, who +sleeps on the fire-encircled mountain awaiting her deliverer. Then Sigurd +places Fafnir's hoard upon his steed Grani, takes with him also Fafnir's +helm, and rides away to Frankenland. He sees a mountain encircled by a +zone of fire, makes his way into it and beholds there, as he deems it, a +man in full armor asleep. When he takes off the helmet he finds that it +is a woman. With his sword he cuts loose the armor. The woman wakes and +asks if it be the hero Sigurd who has awakened her. In joy that it is so, +Brynhild relates to him how Odin had punished her by this magic sleep for +disobedience, and how that she had yet obtained from him the promise that +she should be wakened only by a hero who knew no fear. She now teaches +Sigurd many wise runes, and tells him of harm to fear through love of +her. In spite of all, however, Sigurd does not waver, and they swear an +oath of mutual faithful love. + +Next Sigurd comes to King Gjuki at the Rhine, and joins in friendship +with him and his sons Gunnar and Hogni. Queen Grimhild gives Sigurd a +potion which causes him to forget Brynhild and be filled with love for +her own daughter Gudrun, whom he marries. Gunnar now seeks Brynhild for +wife, and Sigurd goes with him on his wooing-journey. They come to the +castle encircled by fire, where Brynhild lives. She will be wooed only by +him who will ride to her through the flames. Gunnar tries in vain to do +this, even when mounted on Sigurd's steed Grani. Sigurd and Gunnar then +exchange shapes and the former spurs Grani through the flames. He calls +himself Gunnar the son of Gjuki, and finally Brynhild consents to become +his wife. Three nights he shares her couch, but always his sharp sword +lies between them. He takes the ring from her finger and places in its +stead one from Fafnir's treasure. Then he exchanges form again with +Gunnar, who is soon after wedded to Brynhild. Only now does Sigurd +recollect the oath that he once swore to Brynhild himself. + +One day Brynhild and Gudrun are bathing in the Rhine. A quarrel arises +between them when Brynhild takes precedence of Gudrun by going into the +water above her in the stream, saying that her husband is a braver and +mightier man than Gudrun's. Gudrun retorts by revealing the secret that +it was Sigurd in Gunnar's form, and not Gunnar himself, who rode through +the flame, and in proof thereof shows her the ring taken by Sigurd from +Brynhild's finger. Pale as death, Brynhild goes quietly home: Gunnar must +die, she says in wrath. Sigurd tries to pacify her, even offering to +desert Gudrun. Now she will have neither him nor another, and when Gunnar +appears she demands of him Sigurd's death. In spite of Hogni's protest +Gunnar's stepbrother Gutthorm, who has not sworn blood-friendship with +Sigurd, is got to do the deed. He is given the flesh of wolf and serpent +to eat in order to make him savage. Twice Gutthorm goes to kill Sigurd, +but cowers before the piercing glance of his eyes; at last he steals upon +Sigurd asleep and thrusts his sword through him. The dying Sigurd hurls +the sword after the fleeing murderer and cuts him in two. To Gudrun, who +wakes from sleep by his side, he points to Brynhild as the instigator of +the crime, and dies. Brynhild rejoices at the sound of Gudrun's wailing. +Gudrun cannot find relief for her grief, the tears will not flow. Men and +women seek to console her by tales of greater woes befallen them. But +still Gudrun cannot weep as she sits by Sigurd's corpse. At last one of +the women lifts the cloth from Sigurd's face and lays his head upon +Gudrun's lap. Then Gudrun gazes on his blood-besmirched hair, his dimmed +eyes, and breast pierced by the sword: she sinks down upon the couch and +a flood of tears bursts at length from her eyes. + +Brynhild now tells Gunnar that Sigurd had really kept faith with him on +the wooing journey; but she will live with him no longer and pierces +herself with a sword, after foretelling to Gunnar his future fate and +that of Gudrun. In accord with her own request she is burned on one +funeral-pyre with Sigurd, the sword between them as once before. + +Atli,[1] king of the Huns, now seeks Gudrun for wife. She refuses, but +Grimhild gives her a potion which causes her to forget Sigurd and the +past, and then she becomes the wife of Atli. After Sigurd's death Gunnar +had taken possession of the Niflungen hoard, and this Atli now covets. He +treacherously invites Gunnar and the others to visit him, which they do +in spite of Gudrun's warnings, first of all, however, sinking the hoard +in the Rhine. On their arrival Atli demands of them the hoard, which, he +says, belongs of right to Gudrun. On their refusal he attacks them. Hosts +of fighters on both sides fall and in the end Gunnar and Hogni, the only +two of their number remaining, are bound in fetters. Gunnar refuses +Atli's command to reveal the hiding-place of the hoard, bidding them +bring to him the heart of Hogni. They kill a servant and bring his heart +to Gunnar; but Gunnar sees how it still quivers with fear, and knows it +is not the heart of the fearless Hogni. Then the latter is really killed, +and his heart is brought to Gunnar, who cries exultingly that now only +the Rhine knows where the hoard lies hidden. In spite of Gudrun Atli +orders that Gunnar be thrown into a den of serpents. With a harp +communicated to him by Gudrun he pacifies them all but one, which stings +him to the heart, and thus Gunnar dies. Gudrun is nominally reconciled +with Atli, but in secret plans revenge for the death of her brothers. She +kills Atli's two sons, gives him at a banquet their blood to drink and +their hearts to eat. In the night she plunges a sword into his own heart, +confesses herself to him as his murderer, and sets fire to the castle, in +which Atli and all his remaining men are consumed. + +[1] That is, Attila; the Etzel of the Nibelungenlied. + + +3. The Saga as preserved in the Nibelungenlied + +The saga as we find it in the German Nibelungenlied differs very widely +in form and substance from the Northern version which has just been +outlined, though the two have still enough points of similarity to +indicate clearly a common origin. Each bears the stamp of the poetic +genius of the people among whom it grew. Of all the sagas of the Germanic +peoples none holds so prominent a place as the Nibelungen saga, and it +may safely be said that the epic literature of the world, though offering +poems of more refined literary worth, has none that are at the same time +such valuable records of the growth of the poetic genius of two kindred +peoples through many centuries of their early civilization as the Edda +poems of this saga and the Nibelungenlied. It is impossible here to +undertake a comparison of the two and point out in detail their +parallelism and their respective significance as monuments of +civilization; suffice it to indicate briefly the chief points of +difference in the two stories, and note particularly those parts of the +Nibelungenlied that have, as it were, suffered atrophy, and that point to +earlier stages of the saga in which, as in the Northern version, they +played a more important role. + +First, as to the hoard. The Nibelungenlied knows nothing of its being +taken by Loki from Andvari, of the latter's curse upon it, and how it +came finally into the possession of Fafnir, the giant-dragon. Here it +belongs, as we learn from Hagen's account (strophes 86-99), to Siegfried +(Sigurd), who has slain the previous owners of it, Schilbung and +Nibelung, and wrested it from its guardian the dwarf Alberich (Andvari). +From this point onward its history runs nearly parallel in the two +versions. After Siegfried's death it remains for a time with Kriemhild +(Gudrun), is treacherously taken from her by Gunther (Gunnar) and Hagen +(Hogni), and finally, before their journey to Etzel (Atli), sunk in the +Rhine. + +The protracted narrative of Sigurd's ancestry and his descent from Odin +has no counterpart in the Nibelungenlied. Here we learn merely that +Siegfried is the son of Siegmund. His father plays an entirely different +part; and his mother's name is not Hjordis, as in the Edda, but +Siegelind. + +Of Siegfried's youth the Nibelungenlied knows very little. No mention is +made of his tutelage to the dwarf smith Regin and preparation for the +slaying of the dragon Fafnir. The account of him placed in the mouth of +Hagen (strophes 86-501), how he won the hoard, the _tarnkappe_, and the +sword Balmung, and slew the dragon, is evidently a faint echo of an +earlier version of this episode, which sounds out of place in the more +modern German form of the story. From the latter the mythical element has +almost entirely vanished. It is worthy of note, moreover, that the very +brief account of Siegfried's slaying of the dragon is given in the +Nibelungenlied as separate from his acquisition of the hoard, and differs +in detail from that of the Edda. Of Sigurd's steed Grani, his ride to +Frankenland, and his awakening of Brynhild the Nibelungenlied has nothing +to tell us. Through the account of Siegfried's assistance to Gunther in +the latter's wooing of Brunhild (Adventures 6 and 7) shimmers faintly, +however, the earlier tradition of the mythical Siegfried's awakening of +the fire-encircled valkyrie. Only by our knowledge of a more original +version can we explain, for example, Siegfried's previous acquaintance +with Brunhild which the Nibelungenlied takes for granted but says nothing +of. On this point of the relation between Sigurd and Brynhild it is +difficult to form a clear account owing to the confusion and even +contradictions that exist when the various Northern versions themselves +are placed side by side. The name of the valkyrie whom Sigurd awakens +from her magic sleep is not directly mentioned. Some of the accounts are +based on the presupposition that she is one with the Brynhild whom Sigurd +later wooes for Gunnar, while others either know nothing of the sleeping +valkyrie or treat the two as separate personages. The situation in the +Nibelungenlied is more satisfactorily explained by the theory that they +were originally identical. But we see at once that the figure of Brunhild +has here lost much of its original significance. It is her quarrel with +Kriemhild (Gudrun) that leads to Siegfried's death, though the motives +are not just the same in the two cases; and after the death of Siegfried +she passes unaccountably from the scene. + +But it is in the concluding part of the story--the part which, as we +shall see, has its basis in actual history--that the two accounts diverge +most widely. So strange, indeed, has been the evolution of the saga that +the central character of it, Kriemhild (Gudrun) holds a diametrically +opposite relation to her husband Etzel (Atli) at the final catastrophe in +the two versions. In the Nibelungenlied as in the Edda the widowed +Kriemhild (Gudrun) marries King Etzel (Atli), her consent in the former +resulting from a desire for revenge upon the murderers of Siegfried, in +the latter from the drinking of a potion which takes away her memory of +him; in the Nibelungenlied it is Kriemhild who treacherously lures +Gunther and his men to their destruction unknown to Etzel, in the Edda +the invitation comes from Atli, while Gudrun tries to warn them to stay +at home; in the former Kriemhild is the author of the attack on the +guests, in the latter Atli; in the former Kriemhild is the frenzied +avenger of her former husband Siegfried's death upon her brother Gunther, +in the latter Gudrun is the avenger of her brothers' death upon her +husband Atli. + + +4. Mythical Element and Historical Element + +A sifting of the Nibelungen saga reveals a mythical element (the story of +Siegfried) and a historical element (the story of the Burgundians and +Etzel). How, when, and where these two elements were blended together +must remain largely a matter of conjecture. This united central body +received then from time to time accessions of other elements, some of +them originally historical in character, some of them pure inventions of +the poetic imagination. + +The Siegfried myth is the oldest portion of the Nibelungen saga, and had +already passed through a long period of development before its union with +the story of the Burgundian kings. Like so many others of its kind, it is +part of the spiritual equipment of our Germanic ancestors at the dawn of +their recorded history. It grew gradually with the people themselves and +has its counterpart among other peoples. Such myths are a record of the +impressions made upon the mind of man by the mighty manifestations of the +world of nature in which he lives; their formation may be likened to the +unconscious impressions of its surroundings on the mind of the child. And +just as the grown man is unable to trace back the formation of his own +individuality to its very beginnings in infancy, so is it impossible for +the later nation in its advanced stage to peer back beyond the dawn of +its history. It is in the gloom beyond the dawn that such myths as this +of Siegfried have their origin. + +Though modern authorities differ greatly in their conjectures, it is +generally agreed that the Siegfried story was in its original form a +nature-myth. The young day slays the mist-dragon and awakens the +sun-maiden that sleeps on the mountain; at evening he falls a prey to the +powers of gloom that draw the sun down again beneath the earth. With this +day-myth was probably combined the parallel myth of the changing seasons: +the light returns in spring, slays the cloud-dragon, and frees the +budding earth from the bonds of winter.[2] + +[2] For the Siegfried saga in general see Symons in Paul's Grundriss der +germanischen Philologie, 2d ed., vol. III, pp. 651-671. + +In the course of time this nature-myth became transformed into a +hero-saga; the liberating power of light was humanized into the person of +the light-hero Siegfried. This stage of development had already been +reached at the time of our earliest records, and the evidences point to +the Rhine Franks, a West Germanic tribe settled in the fifth century in +the country about Cologne, as the people among whom the transformation +from nature-myth to hero-saga took place, for it is among them that the +saga in its earliest form is localized. By the Rhine Siegfried is born, +there he wins the Nibelungen hoard, and in Frankenland he finds the +sleeping valkyrie. By the Rhine, too, he enters into service with the +Nibelungen kings and weds their sister. + +The Franks had as neighbors up-stream in the first half of the fifth +century the Burgundians, an East Germanic tribe. These Burgundians, who +were closely allied to the Goths, had originally dwelt in the Baltic +region between the Vistula and the Oder, whence they had made their way +south westward across Germany and settled in the year 413 in _Germania +prima_ on the west bank of the Rhine about Worms. Here a tragic fate was +soon to overtake them. In the year 435 they had already suffered a +reverse in a conflict with the Romans under Aetius, and two years later, +in 437, they were practically annihilated by the Huns. Twenty thousand of +them, we are told, fell in battle, the remainder were scattered +southward. Beyond the brief record by a contemporary, Prosper, we know +but little of this event. It has been conjectured that the Huns were on +this occasion acting as auxiliaries of Aetius. At any rate it is fairly +certain that Attila was not personally on the scene. + +We can easily imagine what a profound impression this extinction of the +Burgundians would produce upon the minds of their neighbors the Rhine +Franks. Fact, too, would soon become mingled with fiction. This new feat +was ascribed to Attila himself, already too well known as the scourge of +Europe and the subduer of so many German tribes. A very few years later, +however, fate was to subdue the mighty conqueror himself. With the great +battle of Chalons in 451 the tide turned against him, and two years +afterwards he died a mysterious death. The historian Jordanes of the +sixth century relates that on the morning after Attila's wedding with a +German princess named Ildico (Hildiko) he was found lying in bed in a +pool of blood, having died of a hemorrhage. The mysteriousness of +Attila's ending inspired his contemporaries with awe, and the popular +fancy was not slow to clothe this event also in a dress of fiction. The +attendant circumstances peculiarly favored such a process. Historians +soon recorded the belief that Attila had perished at the hands of his +wife, and it was only a step further for the imagination to find the +motive for the deed in the desire of Hildiko to avenge the death of her +German kinsmen who had perished through Attila. The saga of Attila's +death is before long connected with the growing Burgundian saga, Hildiko +becomes the sister of the Burgundian kings Gundahari, Godomar, and +Gislahari, and her deed is vengeance taken upon Attila for his +destruction of her brothers. As is seen at once from the outline I have +already given (Chapter 2.) of the saga as we find it in the Edda, this is +the stage of development it had reached when it began to find its way +northward from the Rhine country to Norway and Iceland. + +It is unnecessary here to record the speculations--for beyond +speculations we cannot go--as to how the union of this historical saga of +the Burgundians and Attila with the Siegfried saga took place. In the +course of time, and naturally with greatest probability among the Rhine +Franks who followed the Burgundians as occupants of _Germania prima_, the +two were brought together, and the three Burgundian kings and their +sister were identified with the three Nibelungen kings and their sister +of the already localized Siegfried saga. It is also beyond the scope of +this introduction to follow the course of the saga northward or to note +its further evolution during its wanderings and in its new home until it +was finally recorded in poetic form in the Edda. We have now to consider +briefly the transformation it passed through in Germany between this date +(about 500) and the time (about 1200) when it emerges in written record +as the Nibelungenlied. + +An account has already been given (Chapter 3.) of the chief features in +which the Nibelungenlied differs from the Northern form. As we saw there, +the mythical element of the Siegfried saga has almost entirely evaporated +and the historical saga of the Burgundian kings and Attila has undergone +a complete transformation. That the originally mythical and heathen +Siegfried saga should dwindle away with the progress of civilization and +under the influence of Christianity was but natural. The character of the +valkyrie Brynhild who avenges upon Sigurd his infidelity to her, yet +voluntarily unites herself with him in death, as heathen custom demanded, +is no longer intelligible. She recedes into the background, and after +Siegfried's death, though she is still living, she plays no further part. +The Nibelungenlied found its final form on Upper German, doubtless +Austrian, territory. Here alone was it possible that that greatest of all +transformations could take place, namely, in the character of Attila. The +Franks of the Rhine knew him only as the awe-inspiring conqueror who had +annihilated their neighbors the Burgundians. In Austrian lands it was +quite otherwise. Many Germanic tribes, particularly the East Goths, had +fought under the banner of Attila, and in the tradition handed down from +them he lived as the embodiment of wisdom and generosity. Here it was +impossible that epic story should picture him as slaying the Burgundian +kings through a covetous desire for their gold. The annihilation of the +Burgundians is thus left without a motive. To supply this, Kriemhild's +character is placed upon an entirely different basis. Instead of avenging +upon Attila the death of her brothers the Burgundian kings, Kriemhild now +avenges upon her brothers the slaying of her first husband Siegfried. +This fundamental change in the character of Kriemhild has a deep ethical +reason. To the ancient heathen Germans the tie of blood-relationship was +stronger than that of wedlock, and thus in the original version of the +story Attila's wife avenges upon him the death of her _brothers_; to the +Christianized Germans of later times the marriage bond was the stronger, +and accordingly from the altered motive Kriemhild avenges upon her +brothers the slaying of her _husband_. In accordance, too, with this +ethical transformation the scene of the catastrophe is transferred from +Worms to Attila's court. Kriemhild now looms up as the central figure of +the second half of the drama, while Etzel remains to the last ignorant of +her designs for revenge. + +This transformation of the fundamental parts of the saga was accompanied +by another process, namely, the addition of new characters. Some of these +are the product of the poetic faculty of the people or individuals who +preserved and remoulded the story in the course of centuries, others are +based upon history. To the former class belong the Margrave Ruediger, the +ideal of gentle chivalry, and Volker the Fiddler-knight, doubtless a +creation of the _spielleute_. To the second class belong Dietrich of +Bern, in whom we see the mighty East Gothic king, Theodoric of Verona; +also Bishop Pilgrim of Passau, a very late importation, besides several +others in whom are perpetuated in more or less faint outline actual +persons of history. This introduction of fresh characters from time to +time as the saga grew has led to some strange anachronisms, which however +are a disturbing element only to us readers of a modern day, who with +sacrilegious hand lift the veil through which they were seen in a uniform +haze of romance by the eye of the knights and ladies of seven centuries +ago. _They_ neither knew nor cared to know, for instance, that Attila was +dead before Theodoric was born, and that Bishop Pilgrim flourished at +Passau the trifling space of five hundred years later still.[3] + + +[3] Attila lived from about 406 to 453; Theodoric, 475 to 526. Pilgrim + was Bishop of Passau, 971 to 991. + + + + +II. THE NIBELUNGENLIED + +1. The Manuscripts + +Among the German epic poems of the Middle Ages the Nibelungenlied [4] +enjoyed an exceptional popularity, as is evident from the large number of +manuscripts--some thirty, either complete or fragmentary--that have been +preserved from the centuries immediately following its appearance. Three +are of prime importance as texts, namely, those preserved now in Munich, +St. Gall, and Donaueschingen, and cited as A, B, and C respectively. +Since the time when Lachmann, about a century ago, made the first +scientific study of the poem, a whole flood of writings has been poured +forth discussing the relative merits of these texts. Each in turn has had +its claims advocated with warmth and even acrimony. None of these three +principal manuscripts, however, offers the poem in its earliest form; +they all point to a still earlier version. It is now generally admitted +that the St. Gall manuscript (B), according to which the present +translation has been made, contains the best and most nearly original +text. + +[4] The closing strophe of MS. C calls the poem der _Nibelunge liet_, or + Nibelungenlied, i.e. the lay of the Nibelungen, and this is the title + by which it is commonly known. MSS. A and B have in the corresponding + strophe _der Nibelunge not_, i.e. the 'need', 'distress', + 'downfall' of the Nibelungen. In the title of the poem 'Nibelungen' + is simply equivalent to 'Burgundians': the poem relates the downfall + of the Burgundian kings and their people. Originally the Nibelungen + were, as their name, which is connected with _nebel_, 'mist', + 'gloom', signifies, the powers of darkness to whom the light-hero + Siegfried fell a prey. After Siegfried obtains possession of the + treasure the name Nibelungen is still applied to Alberich and the + dwarfs who guard it and who are now Siegfried's vassals. Then after + Siegfried's death the name is given to the Burgundians. It is a + mistake to suppose that the name was applied in each case to those + who became possessors of the hoard, for Siegfried himself is never so + designated. + + +2. Stages in the Evolution of the Poem + +Hand in hand with the discussion of the relative authenticity of the +manuscripts went the consideration of another more important literary +question,--the evolution of the poem itself. Even if we knew nothing of +the history of the Nibelungen saga as revealed in the Edda and through +other literary and historic sources, a reading of the poem would give us +unmistakable hints that it is not, in its present form, a perfect +literary unit. We detect inconsistencies in matter and inequalities of +style that prove it to be a remodelling of material already existing in +some earlier form. What, then, has been the history of its evolution? How +did this primeval Siegfried myth, this historical saga of the Burgundians +and Attila, first come to be part of the poetic stock of the German +people? What was its earliest poetic form, and what series of +transformations did it pass through during seven centuries of growth? +These and many kindred questions present themselves, and the search for +answers to them takes us through many winding labyrinths of the nation's +contemporary history. Few products of German literature have so exercised +and tantalized critics as the Nibelungenlied. + +In this connection we have to remind ourselves that comparatively little +of what must have been the large body of native poetry in Germany +previous to the eleventh century has come down to us. Barely enough has +been preserved to show the path of the nation's literary progress. Some +of the important monuments have been saved by chance, while others of +equal or perhaps greater value have been irrecoverably lost. The interest +in the various incidents of the Nibelungen story was sufficient to keep +it alive among the people and hand it down orally through many +generations. If we could observe it as it passed from age to age we +should doubtless see it undergoing continuous change according to the +time and the class of the people that were the preservers of the native +literature in its many ups and downs. Lachmann in the year 1816 was the +first to bring scientific criticism to bear on the question of the +Nibelungenlied and its origin. Applying to it the same methods as had +recently been used by Wolf in his criticism of the Homeric poems, he +thought he was able to discover as the basis of the complete epic a cycle +of twenty separate _lieder_, ballads or shorter episodic poems, on the +strength of which belief he went so far as to publish an edition of the +poem in which he made the division into the twenty separate lays and +eliminated those strophes (more than one third of the whole number) that +he deemed not genuine. It is now generally admitted, however, that the +pioneer of Nibelungen investigation fell here into over-positive +refinements of literary criticism. Separate shorter poems there doubtless +existed narrating separate episodes of the story, but these are no longer +to be arrived at by a process of critical disintegration and pruning of +the epic as we have it. An examination of the twenty _lieder_ according +to Lachmann's division convinces us that they are not separate units in +the sense he conceived them to be. Though these twenty _lieder_ may be +based upon a number of earlier episodic poems, yet the latter already +constituted a connected series. They were already like so many scenes of +a gradually developing drama. Events were foreshadowed in one that were +only fulfilled in another, and the incidents of later ones are often only +intelligible on the supposition of an acquaintance with motives that +originated in preceding ones. It is in this sense only, not according to +Lachmann's overwrought theory, that we are justified in speaking of a +_liedercyclus_, or cycle of separate episodic poems, as the stage of the +epic antecedent to the complete form in which we now have it. But beyond +this cycle we cannot trace it back. How the mythical saga of Siegfried +and the Nibelungen, and the story of the Burgundians and Attila, were +first sung in alliterative lays in the Migration Period, how as heathen +song they were pushed aside or slowly influenced by the spirit of +Christianity, how with changing time they changed also their outward +poetical garb from alliteration to rhyme and altered verse-form, till at +last in the twelfth century they have become the cycle of poems from +which the great epic of the Nibelungenlied could be constructed--of all +this we may form a faint picture from the development of the literature +in general, but direct written record of it is almost completely wanting. + + +3. Character of the Poem + +The twelfth and thirteenth centuries witnessed far-reaching changes in +the social and intellectual life of the German lands, the leading feature +of which is the high development of all that is included under the name +of chivalry. It is marked, too, by a revival of the native literature +such as had not been known before, a revival which is due almost entirely +to its cultivation by the nobility. From emperor down to the simple +knight they were patrons of poetry and, what is most striking, nearly all +the poets themselves belong to the knightly class. The drama has not yet +begun, but in the field of epic and lyric there appear about the year +1200 poets who are among the greatest that German literature even down to +the present time has to show. The epic poetry of that period, though +written almost entirely by the knights, is of two distinct kinds +according to its subject: on the one hand what is called the Court Epic, +on the other hand the National, or Popular, Epic. The Court Epic follows +for the most part French models and deals chiefly with the life of +chivalry, whose ideals were embodied in king Arthur and his circle of +knights; the National Epic drew its subjects from the national German +saga, its two great products being the Nibelungenlied and the poem of +Gudrun. Court Epic and National Epic are further distinct in form, the +Court Epic being written in the rhymed couplets popularized in modern +times in English by Sir Walter Scott, while the National Epic is composed +in four-lined strophes. + +Though we know the name and more or less of the life of the authors of +the many court epics of the period, the name of the poet who gave the +Nibelungenlied its final form has not been recorded. As we have seen, the +poem is at bottom of a truly popular, national character, having its +beginnings in mythology and early national history. For centuries the +subject had been national property and connected with the name of no one +individual. We have it now in the form in which it was remodelled to suit +the taste of the court and the nobility, and like the court epic to be +read aloud in castle hall. That it is written in four-lined strophes[5] +and not in the usual rhymed couplets of the court epics is doubtless due +to the fact that the former verse-form had already been used in the +earlier ballads upon which it is based, and was simply taken over by the +final moulder of the poem. This latter was probably a member of the +nobility like the great majority of the epic poets of the time; he must +at least have been well acquainted with the manners, tastes, sentiments, +and general life of the nobility. Through him the poem was brought +outwardly more into line with the literary ideals of the court circles. +This shows itself chiefly in a negative way, namely, in the almost +complete avoidance of the coarse language and farcical situations so +common with the popular poet, the _spielmann_. Beyond this no violence is +done to the simple form of the original. The style is still inornate and +direct, facts still speak rather than words, and there is nothing +approaching the refined psychological dissection of characters and +motives such as we find in Wolfram von Eschenbach and the other court +writers. + +[5] For description of the Nibelungen strophe see below, Chapter 7. + +When we look to the inner substance we see that the ground ideals are +still those of the original Germanic heroic age. The chief characters are +still those of the first stages of the story--Siegfried, Brunhild, +Gunther, Kriemhild, Hagen. The fundamental theme is the ancient theme of +_triuwe_, unswerving personal loyalty and devotion, which manifests +itself above all in the characters of Kriemhild and Hagen. Kriemhild's +husband Siegfried is treacherously slain: her sorrow and revenge are the +motives of the drama. Hagen's mistress has, though with no evil intent on +Siegfried's part, received an insult to her honor: to avenge that insult +is Hagen's absorbing duty, which he fulfils with an utter disregard of +consequences. Over this their fundamental character the various persons +of the story have received a gloss of outward conduct in keeping with the +close of the twelfth century. The poet is at pains to picture them as +models of courtly bearing, excelling in _hofscheit_, _zuht_, _tugent_. +Great attention is paid to dress, and the preparation of fitting apparel +for court festivities is described and re-described with wearisome +prolixity. A cardinal virtue is _milte_, liberality in the bestowal of +gifts. Courtesy toward women is observed with the careful formality of +the age of the minnesingers. It was above all Siegfried, the light-hero +of the original myth, whose character lent itself to an idealization of +knighthood. Ruediger holds a like place in the latter part of the poem. +In the evident pleasure with which the minstrel-knight Volker of the +sword-fiddlebow is depicted, as well doubtless as in occasional gleams of +broader humor, the hand of the minstrels who wrought on the story in its +earlier ballad stages may be seen. And the whole poem, in keeping with +its form in an age strongly under church influence, has been tinged with +the ideals of Christianity. Not only does the ordinary conversation of +all the characters, including even the heathen Etzel, contain a great +number of formal imprecations of God, but Christian institutions and +Christian ethics come frequently into play. Mass is sung in the minster, +baptism, marriage, burial are celebrated in Christian fashion, the devil +is mentioned according to the Christian conception, we hear of priest, +chaplain, and bishop, Christians are contrasted with heathen, and +Kriemhild, in marrying Etzel, has a hope of turning him to Christianity. +In Hagen's attempt to drown the chaplain whom the Burgundians have with +them as they set out for the land of the Huns we have perhaps an +expression of the conflict between the heathen and the Christian +elements, possibly also a reflection of the traditional animosity of the +_spielmann_ to his clerical rival. + +The Nibelungenlied and the Iliad of Homer have often been compared, but +after all to no great purpose. The two epics are alike in having their +roots deep in national origins, but beyond this we have contrasts rather +than resemblances. The Iliad is a more varied and complete picture of the +whole Greek world than the Nibelungenlied is of the German, its religious +atmosphere has not been disturbed in the same way as that of the saga of +early Germanic times projected several centuries into a later Christian +age, and it possesses in every way a greater unity of sentiment. In the +varied beauty of its language, its wealth of imagery, its depth of +feeling and copiousness of incident the Iliad is superior to the +Nibelungenlied with its language of simple directness, its few lyrical +passages, its expression of feeling by deeds rather than by words. Homer, +too, is in general buoyant, the Nibelungenlied is sombre and stern. And +in one last respect the two epics differ most of all: the Iliad is +essentially narrative and descriptive, a series of episodes; the +Nibelungenlied is essentially dramatic, scene following scene of dramatic +necessity and pointing steadily to a final and inevitable catastrophe. + + +4. Later Forms of the Saga + +In the Northern Edda and in the German Nibelungenlied the Nibelungen saga +found its fullest and most poetic expression. But these were not to be +the only literary records of it. Both in Scandinavian lands and in +Germany various other monuments, scattered over the intervening +centuries, bear witness to the fact that it lived on in more or less +divergent forms. The Danish historian Saxo Grammaticus of the latter part +of the twelfth century has a reference to the story of Kriemhild's +treachery toward her brothers. About the year 1250 an extensive prose +narrative, known as the Thidrekssaga, was written by a Norwegian from +oral accounts given him by men from Bremen and Munster. This narrative is +interesting as showing the form the saga had taken by that date on Low +German territory, and holds an important place in the history of the +development of the saga. It has much more to say of the early history of +Siegfried than we find in the Nibelungenlied, and yet in the main +outlines of the story of Kriemhild's revenge it corresponds with the +German epic and not with the Northern Edda. A chronicle of the island of +Hven in the Sound, dating in its original form from the sixteenth +century, as well as Danish ballads on the same island that have lived on +into modern times, tell of Sivard (Siegfried), Brynhild, and also of +Grimild's (Kriemhild's) revenge. In Norway and Sweden traces of the saga +have recently been discovered; while songs that are sung on the Faroe +Islands, as an accompaniment to the dance on festive occasions, have been +recorded, containing over six hundred strophes in which is related in +more or less distorted form the Nibelungen story. + +In Germany the two poems known as the _Klage_ and _Hurnen Seyfrid_ are +the most noteworthy additional records of the Nibelungen saga, as +offering in part at least independent material. The _Klage_ is a poem of +over four thousand lines in rhymed couplets, about half of it being an +account of the mourning of Etzel, Dietrich, and Hildebrand as they seek +out the slain and prepare them for burial, the other half telling of the +bringing of the news to Bechlaren, Passau, and Worms. The poem was +written evidently very soon after the Nibelungenlied, the substance of +which was familiar to the author, though he also draws in part from other +sources. Compared with the Nibelungenlied it possesses but little poetic +merit and is written with distinctly Christian sentiment which is out of +harmony with the ground-tone of the Germanic tragedy. + +The _Hurnen Seyfrid_ is a poem of 179 four-lined strophes which is +preserved only in a print of the sixteenth century, but at least a +portion of whose substance reaches back in its original form to a period +preceding the composition of the Nibelungenlied. It is evidently, as we +have it, formed by the union of two earlier separate poems, which are +indeed to a certain extent contradictory of each other. The first tells +of the boyhood of Seyfrid (Siegfried) and his apprenticeship to the +smith; how he slew many dragons, burned them, and smeared over his body +with the resulting fluid horny substance (hence his name _hurnen_), which +made him invulnerable; how he further found the hoard of the dwarf +Nybling, and by service to King Gybich won the latter's daughter for his +wife. The second part tells how King Gybich reigned at Worms. He has +three sons, Gunther, Hagen, Gyrnot, and one daughter, Kriemhild. The +latter is borne off by a dragon, but finally rescued by Seyfrid, to whom +she is given in marriage. The three brothers are jealous of the might and +fame of Seyfrid, and after eight years Hagen slays him beside a cool +spring in the Ottenwald. + +The poem _Biterolf_, written soon after the Nibelungenlied, and +_Rosengarten_ of perhaps a half-century later, represent Dietrich in +conflict with Siegfried at Worms. The famous shoemaker-poet Hans Sachs of +Nuremberg in 1557 constructed a tragedy, _Der hornen Sewfriedt_, on the +story of Siegfried as he knew it from the _Hurnen Seyfrid_ and the +_Rosengarten_. A prose version of the _Hurnen Seyfrid_, with free +additions and alterations, is preserved in the _Volksbuch vom gehornten +Sigfrid_, the oldest print of which dates from the year 1726. Of the vast +number of Fairy Tales, those most genuine creations of the poetic +imagination of the people, in which live on, often to be sure in scarcely +recognizable form, many of the myths and sagas of the nation's infancy, +there are several that may with justice be taken as relics of the +Siegfried myth, for instance, The Two Brothers, The Young Giant, The +Earth-Manikin, The King of the Golden Mount, The Raven, The Skilled +Huntsman, and perhaps also the Golden Bird and The Water of Life;[6] +though it would seem from recent investigations that Thorn-Rose or the +Sleeping Beauty, is no longer to be looked upon as the counterpart of the +sleeping Brynhild. Finally, it is probable that several names in Germany +and in Northern countries preserve localized memories of the saga. + + +[6] These will be found in Grimm's Marchen as numbers 60, 90-93, 111, 57, + and 97. + + +5. Poem and Saga in Modern Literature + +Fundamentally different from the foregoing natural outgrowths of the +Nibelungen saga are the modern dramas and poems founded upon it since the +time of the romanticists at the beginning of the nineteenth century.[7] +Nearly all of these have already vanished as so much chaff from the +winnowing-mill of time: only two, perhaps, are now considered seriously, +namely, Hebbel's _Die Nibelungen_ and Richard Wagner's _Ring des +Nibelungen_. Hebbel in his grandly conceived drama in three parts follows +closely the story as we have it in our epic poem the Nibelungenlied, and +the skill with which he makes use of its tragic elements shows his +dramatic genius at its best. But not even the genius of Hebbel could make +these forms of myth and saga live again for us upon a modern stage, and +the failure of this work with its wealth of poetic beauty and many scenes +of highest dramatic effectiveness to maintain its place as an acting +drama is sufficient evidence that the yawning gap that separates the +sentiment of the modern world from that of the early centuries in which +these sagas grew is not to be bridged over by the drama, however easy and +indeed delightful it may be for us to allow ourselves to be transported +thither to that romantic land upon the wings of epic story. Wagner in his +music-drama in three parts and prelude has followed in the main the saga +in its Northern form [8] up to the death of Siegfried and Brunhild, but +to the entire exclusion of the latter part of the story in which Atli +(Etzel) figures; his work has accordingly hardly any connection with the +Nibelungenlied here offered in translation. Only the pious loyalty of +national sentiment can assign a high place in dramatic literature to +Wagner's work with its intended imitation of the alliterative form of +verse; while his philosophizing gods and goddesses are also but decadent +modern representatives of their rugged heathen originals. + +[7] The curious will find a list of these in the introduction to Piper's + edition, cited below, Chapter 7. +[8] See above, Chapter 2. + + +6. Modern German Translations + +The language of the Nibelungenlied presents about the same difficulty to +the German reader of to-day as that of our English Chaucer to us. Many +translations into modern German have accordingly been made to render it +accessible to the average reader without special study. In the year 1767 +Bodmer in Zurich published a translation into hexameters of a portion of +it, and since the investigations of Lachmann raised it to the position of +a national epic of first magnitude many more have appeared, both in prose +and verse. The best in prose is that by Scherr, of the year 1860. Of the +metrical translations that by Simrock, which in its later editions +follows pretty closely the text of MS. C, is deservedly the most popular +and has passed through a great number of editions. Bartsch has also made +a translation based on his edition of MS. B. These modern versions by +Simrock and Bartsch reproduce best the metrical quality of the original +strophe. Easily obtainable recent translations are those by Junghans (in +Reclam's Universalbibliothek) of text C, and by Hahn (Collection Spemann) +of text A. + + +7. English Translations[9] + +[9] For a complete list of these, also of magazine articles, etc., + relating to the Nibelungenlied, see F. E. Sandbach, The + _Nibelungenlied and Gudrun in England and America_, London, + 1903. + +Early in last century interest in the Nibelungenlied began to manifest +itself in England. A synopsis of it, with metrical translation of several +strophes, appeared in the year 1814 in Weber, Jamieson and Scott's +"Illustrations of Northern Antiquities" (London and Edinburgh), in which, +according to Lockhart, Sir Walter Scott's hand may perhaps be seen. +Carlyle, laboring as a pioneer to spread a knowledge of German literature +in England, contributed to the Westminster Review in 1831 his well-known +essay on the Nibelungenlied which, though containing an additional mass +of rather ill-arranged matter and now antiquated in many particulars, is +still well worth reading for its enthusiastic account of the epic itself +in the genuine style of the author. Carlyle here reproduces in metrical +form a few strophes. He has said elsewhere that one of his ambitions was +to make a complete English version of the poem. Since then an endless +number of accounts of it, chiefly worthless, has appeared in magazines +and elsewhere. The first attempt at a complete metrical translation was +made in 1848 by Jonathan Birch, who however only reproduces Lachmann's +twenty _lieder_, with some fifty-one strophes added on his own account. +His version of the first strophe runs thus: + + Legends of by-gone times reveal wonders and prodigies, + Of heroes worthy endless fame,--of matchless braveries,-- + Of jubilees and festal sports,--of tears and sorrows great,-- + And knights who daring combats fought:--the like I now relate. + +In 1850 appeared William Nansom Lettsom's translation of the whole poem +according to Braunfels' edition, with the opening strophe turned as +follows: + + In stories of our fathers high marvels we are told + Of champions well approved in perils manifold. + Of feasts and merry meetings, of weeping and of wail, + And deeds of gallant daring I'll tell you in my tale. + +The next metrical rendering is that by A. G. Foster-Barham in the year +1887. His first strophe reads: + + Many a wondrous story have the tales of old, + Of feats of knightly glory, and of the Heroes bold, + Of the delights of feasting, of weeping and of wail, + Of noble deeds of daring; you may list strange things in my tale. + +In the year 1898 follows still another, by Alice Horton (edited by E. +Bell). This latest translation is based on Bartsch's text of MS. B, and +is prefaced by Carlyle's essay. First strophe: + + To us, in olden legends, / is many a marvel told + Of praise-deserving heroes, / of labours manifold, + Of weeping and of wailing, / of joy and festival; + Of bold knights' battling shall you / now hear a wondrous tale. + +Apart from the many faults of interpretation all of the metrical +translations of the Nibelungenlied here enumerated are defective in one +all-important respect: they do not reproduce the poem in its _metrical +form_. Carlyle and other pioneers we may perhaps acquit of any intention +of following the original closely in this regard. None of the translators +of the complete poem, however, has retained in the English rendering what +is after all the very essence of a poem,--its exact metrical quality. +Birch has created an entirely different form of strophe in which all four +lines are alike, each containing seven principal accents, with the +caesura, following the fourth foot. Lettsom makes the first serious +attempt to reproduce the original strophe. It is evident from the +introduction to his translation (see p. xxvi) that he had made a careful +study of its form, and he does in fact reproduce the first three lines +exactly. Of the fourth line he says: "I have not thought it expedient to +make a rule of thus lengthening the fourth lines of the stanzas, though I +have lengthened them occasionally"(!). What moved him thus to deprive +the stanza of its most striking feature--and one, moreover, that is +easily preserved in English--he does not make clear. The versions of +Foster-Barham and of Horton and Bell show the same disfigurement, the +latter omitting the extra accent of the fourth line, as they say, "for +the sake of euphony"(!). It is just this lengthened close of each strophe +that gives the Nibelungenlied its peculiar metrical character and +contributes not a little to the avoidance of monotony in a poem of over +two thousand strophes. In theory the form of the fourth line as it stands +in the original is no more foreign to the genius of the English language +than to that of modern German, and few of the many Germans giving a +modernized version of the epic have been bold enough to lay sacrilegious +hands upon it to shorten it. + +A brief account of the Nibelungen strophe may not be out of place here, +owing to the fact that its character has generally been misunderstood. +The origin and evolution of the strophe have been the subject of much +discussion, the results of which we need not pause to formulate here. As +it appears in actual practice in our poem of about the year 1200, it was +as follows: Each strophe consists of four long lines, the first line +rhyming with the second, and the third with the fourth. The rhymes are +masculine, that is, rhymes on the end syllable. Each line is divided by a +clearly marked caesura into two halves; each half of the first three +lines and the first half of the fourth line has three accented syllables, +the second half of the fourth line has four accented syllables. The first +half of each line ends in an unaccented syllabic--or, strictly speaking, +in a syllable bearing a secondary accent; that is, each line has what is +called a "ringing" caesura. The metrical character of the Nibelungen +strophe is thus due to its fixed number of accented syllables. Of +unaccented syllables the number may vary within certain limits. +Ordinarily each accented syllable is preceded by an unaccented one; that +is, the majority of feet are iambic. The unaccented syllable may, +however, at times be wanting, or there may, on the other hand, be two or +even three of them together. A characteristic of the second half of the +last line is that there is very frequently no unaccented syllable between +the second and the third accented ones. Among occasional variations of +the normal strophe as here described may be mentioned the following: The +end-rhyme is in a few instances feminine instead of masculine; while on +the other hand the ending of the first half-lines is occasionally +masculine instead of feminine, that is, the caesura is not "ringing." In +a few scattered instances we find strophes that rhyme throughout in the +caesura as well as at the end of lines;[10] occasionally the first and +second lines, or still less frequently the third and fourth, alone have +caesural rhyme.[11] Rhyming of the caesura may be regarded as accidental +in most cases, but it is reproduced as exactly as possible in this +translation. + +[10] Strophes 1, 17, 102, and possibly 841. +[11] Strophes 18, 69, 103, 115, 129, 148, 177, 190, 198, 222, 231, + 239, 293, 325, 345, 363, 485, 584, 703, 712, 859, 864, 894, 937, + 1022, 1032, 1114, 1225, 1432, 1436, 1460, 1530, 1555, 1597, 1855, + 1909, 1944, 1956, 2133, 2200, 2206, 2338. + +In the original the opening strophe, which is altogether more regular +than the average and is, moreover, one of the few that have also complete +caesural rhyme, is as follows: + + Uns ist in alten maeren / wunders vil geseit + von heleden lobebaeren, / von grozer arebeit, + von frouden, hochgeziten, / von weinen und von klagen, + von kuener recken striten / muget ir nu wunder hoeren sagen. + +Here the only place where the unaccented syllable is lacking before the +accented is before _wunders_ at the beginning of the second half of the +first line. A strophe showing more typical irregularities is, for +instance, the twenty-second: + + In sinen besten ziten, / bi sinen jungen tagen, + man mohte michel wunder / von Sivride sagen, + waz eren an im wuchse / und wie scoene was sin lip. + sit heten in ze minne / diu vil waetlichen wip. + +Here the rhyme of the first and second lines is still masculine, _tagen_ +and _sagen_ being pronounced _tagn_ and _sagn_. The unaccented syllable +is lacking, e.g., before the second accent of the second half of line +two, also before the first and the third accent of the second half of +line four. There are two unaccented syllables at the beginning +(_Auftakt_) of the second half of line three. The absence of the +unaccented syllable between the second and the third accent of the last +half of the fourth line of a strophe, as here, is so frequent in the poem +as to amount almost to a rule; it shows an utter misconception, or +disregard, of its true character, nevertheless, to treat this last +half-line as having only three accented syllables, as all translators +hitherto have done. + + +8. Editions Of The Nibelungenlied + +MS. A. (Hohenems-Munich). + Lachmann, _Der Nibelunge Not und die Klage_, 5th ed., Berlin, 1878. + Several reprints of the text alone later. + +MS. B. (St. Gall). + Bartsch, _Das Nibelungenlied_, 6th ed., Leipzig, 1886. (Vol. 3 of the + series Deutsche Classiker des Mittelalters.) + Piper, _Die Nibelungen_. (Vol. 6 of Kurschner's Deutsche + National-Litteratur.) + +MS. C. (Donaueschingen). + Zarncke, _Das Nibelungenlied_, 6th ed., Leipzig, 1887. + + * * * * * + +THE NIBELUNGENLIED + + * * * * * + +FIRST ADVENTURE + +Kriemhild's Dream + +1 + +To us in olden story / are wonders many told +Of heroes rich in glory, / of trials manifold: +Of joy and festive greeting, / of weeping and of woe, +Of keenest warriors meeting, / shall ye now many a wonder know. + +2 + +There once grew up in Burgundy / a maid of noble birth, +Nor might there be a fairer / than she in all the earth: +Kriemhild hight the maiden, / and grew a dame full fair, +Through whom high thanes a many / to lose their lives soon doomed were. + +3 + +'Twould well become the highest / to love the winsome maid, +Keen knights did long to win her, / and none but homage paid. +Beauty without measure, / that in sooth had she, +And virtues wherewith many / ladies else adorned might be. + +4 + +Three noble lords did guard her, / great as well in might, +Gunther and Gernot, / each one a worthy knight, +And Giselher their brother, / a hero young and rare. +The lady was their sister / and lived beneath the princes' care. + +5 + +These lords were free in giving, / and born of high degree; +Undaunted was the valor / of all the chosen three. +It was the land of Burgundy / o'er which they did command, +And mighty deeds of wonder / they wrought anon in Etzel's land. + +6 + +At Worms amid their warriors / they dwelt, the Rhine beside, +And in their lands did serve them / knights of mickle pride, +Who till their days were ended / maintained them high in state. +They later sadly perished / beneath two noble women's hate. + +7 + +A high and royal lady, / Ute their mother hight, +Their father's name was Dankrat, / a man of mickle might. +To them his wealth bequeathed he / when that his life was done, +For while he yet was youthful / had he in sooth great honor won. + +8 + +In truth were these three rulers, / as I before did say, +Great and high in power, / and homage true had they +Eke of knights the boldest / and best that e'er were known, +Keen men all and valiant, / as they in battle oft had shown. + +9 + +There was of Tronje Hagen, / and of that princely line +His brother valiant Dankwart; / and eke of Metz Ortwein; +Then further the two margraves, / Gere and Eckewart; +Of Alzei was Volker, / a doughty man of dauntless heart. + +10 + +Rumold the High Steward, / a chosen man was he, +Sindold and Hunold / they tended carefully +Each his lofty office / in their three masters' state, +And many a knight beside them / that I the tale may ne'er relate. + +11 + +Dankwart he was Marshal; / his nephew, then, Ortwein +Upon the monarch waited / when that he did dine; +Sindold was Cup-bearer, / a stately thane was he, +And Chamberlain was Hunold, / masters all in courtesy. + +12 + +Of the kings' high honor / and their far-reaching might, +Of their full lofty majesty / and how each gallant knight +Found his chiefest pleasure / in the life of chivalry, +In sooth by mortal never / might it full related be. + +13 + +Amid this life so noble / did dream the fair Kriemhild +How that she reared a falcon, / in beauty strong and wild, +That by two eagles perished; / the cruel sight to see +Did fill her heart with sorrow / as great as in this world might be. + +14 + +The dream then to her mother / Queen Ute she told, +But she could not the vision / than thus more clear unfold: +"The falcon that thou rearedst, / doth mean a noble spouse: +God guard him well from evil / or thou thy hero soon must lose." + +15 + +"Of spouse, O darling mother, / what dost thou tell to me? +Without a knight to woo me, / so will I ever be, +Unto my latest hour / I'll live a simple maid, +That I through lover's wooing / ne'er be brought to direst need." + +16 + +"Forswear it not so rashly," / her mother then replied. +"On earth if thou wilt ever / cast all care aside, +'Tis love alone will do it; / thou shalt be man's delight, +If God but kindly grant thee / to wed a right good valiant knight." + +17 + +"Now urge the case, dear mother," / quoth she, "not further here. +Fate of many another / dame hath shown full clear +How joy at last doth sorrow / lead oft-times in its train. +That I no ruth may borrow, / from both alike I'll far remain." + +18 + +Long time, too, did Kriemhild / her heart from love hold free, +And many a day the maiden / lived right happily, +Ere good knight saw she any / whom she would wish to woo. +In honor yet she wedded / anon a worthy knight and true. + +19 + +He was that same falcon / she saw the dream within +Unfolded by her mother. / Upon her nearest kin, +That they did slay him later, / how wreaked she vengeance wild! +Through death of this one hero / died many another mother's child. + + + + +SECOND ADVENTURE + +Siegfried + +20 + +There grew likewise in Netherland / a prince of noble kind, +Siegmund hight his father, / his mother Siegelind-- +Within a lordly castle / well known the country o'er, +By the Rhine far downward: / Xanten was the name it bore. + +21 + +Siegfried they did call him, / this bold knight and good; +Many a realm he tested, / for brave was he of mood. +He rode to prove his prowess / in many a land around: +Heigh-ho! what thanes of mettle / anon in Burgundy he found! + +22 + +In the springtime of his vigor, / when he was young and bold, +Could tales of mickle wonder / of Siegfried be told, +How he grew up in honor, / and how fair he was to see: +Anon he won the favor / of many a debonair lady. + +23 + +As for a prince was fitting, / they fostered him with care: +Yet how the knightly virtues / to him native were! +'Twas soon the chiefest glory / of his father's land, +That he in fullest measure / endowed with princely worth did stand. + +24 + +He soon was grown in stature / that he at court did ride. +The people saw him gladly, / lady and maid beside +Did wish that his own liking / might lead him ever there. +That they did lean unto him / the knight was soon right well aware. + +25 + +In youth they let him never / without safe escort ride; +Soon bade Siegmund and Siegelind / apparel rich provide; +Men ripe in wisdom taught him, / who knew whence honor came. +Thus many lands and people / he won by his wide-honored name. + +26 + +Now was he of such stature / that he could weapons bear: +Of what thereto he needed / had he an ample share. +Then to think of loving / fair maids did he begin, +And well might they be honored / for wooer Siegfried bold to win. + +27 + +Then bade his father Siegmund / make known to one and all +That he with his good kinsmen / would hold high festival. +And soon were tidings carried / to all the neighboring kings; +To friends at home and strangers / steeds gave he and rich furnishings. + +28 + +Wherever they found any / who knight was fit to be +By reason of his kindred, / all such were courteously +Unto the land invited / to join the festal throng, +When with the prince so youthful / on them the knightly sword was hung. + +29 + +Of this high time of revelry / might I great wonders tell. +Siegmund and Siegelind / great honor won full well, +Such store of goodly presents / they dealt with generous hand, +That knights were seen full many / from far come pricking to their land. + +30 + +Four hundred lusty squires / were there to be clad +In knight's full garb with Siegfried. / Full many a beauteous maid +At work did never tire, / for dear they did him hold, +And many a stone full precious / those ladies laid within the gold, + +31 + +That they upon the doublets / embroidered cunningly +Of those soon to be knighted: / 't was thus it had to be, +Seats bade the host for many / a warrior bold make right +Against the high midsummer, / when Siegfried won the name of knight. + +32 + +Then went unto the minster / full many a noble knight +And gallant squires beside them. / The elder there with right +Did wait upon the younger, / as once for them was done. +They were all light-hearted, / in hope of pleasure every one. + +33 + +God to praise and honor / they sang the mass' song; +There, too, were crowds of people, / a great and surging throng, +When after knightly custom / knighthood received they then, +In such a stately pageant / as scarce might ever be again. + +34 + +They hastened where they found them / saddled many a steed; +In the court of Siegmund's castle / they tilted with such speed +That far the din resounded / through castle and through hall, +As in the play with clamor / did join the fiery riders all. + +35 + +Well-tried old knights and youthful / met there in frequent clash, +There was sound of shattered lances / that through the air did crash, +And along before the castle / were splinters seen to fly +From hands of knights a many: / each with other there did vie. + +36 + +The king he bade give over: / they led the chargers out: +There was seen all shattered / many a boss well-wrought, +And many a stone full costly / lay there upon the sward +From erstwhile shining shield-bands, / now broken in the jousting hard. + +37 + +The guests all went thereafter / where seats for them were reared; +They by the choicest viands / from weariness were cheered, +And wine, of all the rarest, / that then in plenty flowed. +Upon both friends and strangers / were fitting honors rich bestowed. + +38 + +In such merry manner / all day did last the feast. +Many a wandering minstrel / knew not any rest, +But sang to win the presents / dealt out with bounteous hand; +And with their praise was honored / far and wide King Siegmund's land. + +39 + +The monarch then did order / Siegfried his youthful son +In fee give lands and castles, / as he erstwhile had done. +To all his sword-companions / he gave with such full hand, +That joyed they o'er the journey / they now had made unto that land. + +40 + +The festival yet lasted / until the seventh day. +Siegelind after old custom / in plenty gave away +--For so her son she honored-- / rich gifts of shining gold: +In sooth deserved she richly / that all should him in honor hold. + +41 + +Never a wandering minstrel / was unprovided found: +Horses there and raiment / so free were dealt around, +As if to live they had not / beyond it one day more. +I ween a monarch's household / ne'er bestowed such gifts before. + +42 + +Thus closed the merry feasting / in this right worthy way, +And 't was well known thereafter / how those good knights did say +That they the youthful hero / for king would gladly have; +But this nowise he wished for, / Siegfried the stately knight and brave. + +43 + +While that they both were living, / Siegmund and Siegelind, +No crown their son desired, / --thereto he had no mind. +Yet would he fain be master / o'er all the hostile might +That in the lands around him / opposed the keen and fiery knight. + + + + +THIRD ADVENTURE. + +How Siegfried came to Worms + +44 + +Seldom in sooth, if ever, / the hero's heart was sad. +He heard them tell the story, / how that a winsome maid +There lived afar in Burgundy, / surpassing fair to see: +Great joy she brought him later, / but eke she brought him misery. + +45 + +Of her exceeding beauty / the fame spread far and near, +And of the thing, moreover, / were knights oft-times aware +How the maid's high spirit / no mortal could command: +The thing lured many a stranger / from far unto King Gunther's land. + +46 + +Although to win her favor / were many wooers bent, +In her own heart would never / Kriemhild thereto consent +That any one amongst them / for lover she would have: +Still to her was he a stranger / to whom anon her troth she gave. + +47 + +To true love turned his fancy / the son of Siegelind. +'Gainst his, all others' wooing / was like an idle wind: +Full well did he merit / a lady fair to woo, +And soon the noble Kriemhild / to Siegfried bold was wedded true. + +48 + +By friends he oft was counselled, / and many a faithful man, +Since to think of wooing / in earnest he began, +That he a wife should find him / of fitting high degree. +Then spoke the noble Siegfried: / "In sooth fair Kriemhild shall it be, + +49 + +"The noble royal maiden / in Burgundy that dwells, +For sake of all her beauty. / Of her the story tells, +Ne'er monarch was so mighty / that, if for spouse he sighed, +'Twere not for him befitting / to take the princess for his bride." + +50 + +Unto King Siegmund also / the thing was soon made known. +His people talked about it, / whereby to him was shown +The Prince's fixed purpose. / It grieved him sorely, too, +That his son intent was / the full stately maid to woo. + +51 + +Siegelind asked and learned it, / the noble monarch's wife. +For her loved son she sorrowed / lest he should lose his life, +For well she knew the humor / of Gunther and his men. +Then gan they from the wooing / strive to turn the noble thane. + +52 + +Then said the doughty Siegfried: / "O father dear to me, +Without the love of woman / would I ever be, +Could I not woo in freedom / where'er my heart is set. +Whate'er be said by any, / I'll keep the selfsame purpose yet." + +53 + +"Since thou wilt not give over," / the king in answer said, +"Am I of this thy purpose / inwardly full glad, +And straightway to fulfil it / I'll help as best I can, +Yet in King Gunther's service / is many a haughty-minded man. + +54 + +"And were there yet none other / than Hagen, warrior-knight, +He with such haughty bearing / is wont to show his might, +That I do fear right sorely / that sad our end may be, +If we set out with purpose / to win the stately maid for thee." + +55 + +"Shall we by that be hindered?" / outspake Siegfried then; +"Whate'er in friendly fashion / I cannot obtain +I'll yet in other manner / take that, with sword in hand. +I trow from them I'll further / wrest both their vassals and their land." + +56 + +"I grieve to hear thy purpose," / said Siegmund the king; +"If any one this story / unto the Rhine should bring, +Then durst thou never after / within that land be seen. +Gunther and Gernot, / --well known to me they long have been. + +57 + +"By force, however mighty, / no man can win the maid," +Spake King Siegmund further, / "to me hath oft been said. +But if with knightly escort / thither thou wilt ride, +Good friends--an have we any-- / shall soon be summoned to thy side." + +58 + +"No wish," then answered Siegfried, / "it ever was of mine, +That warrior knights should follow / with me unto the Rhine +As if arrayed for battle: / 'twould make my heart full sad, +To force in hostile manner / to yield to me the stately maid. + +59 + +"By my own hand--thus only-- / trust I to win my bride; +With none but twelve in company / to Gunther's land I'll ride. +In this, O royal father, / thy present help I pray." +Gray and white fur raiment / had his companions for the way. + +60 + +Siegelind his mother / then heard the story too, +And grieved she was on hearing / what her dear son would do, +For she did fear to lose him / at hands of Gunther's men. +Thereat with heart full heavy / began to weep the noble queen. + +61 + +Then came forth Sir Siegfried / where the queen he sought, +And to his weeping mother / thus gently spake his thought: +"No tear of grief thou shouldest / ever shed for me, +For I care not a tittle / for all the warriors that be. + +62 + +"So help me on my journey / to the land of Burgundy, +And furnish such apparel / for all my knights and me, +As warriors of our station / might well with honor wear. +Then I in turn right truly / to thee my gratitude will swear." + +63 + +"Since thou wilt not give over," / Siegelind then replied, +"My only son, I'll help thee / as fits thee forth to ride, +With the best apparel / that riders ever wore, +Thee and thy companions: / ye shall of all have goodly store." + +64 + +Then bowed the youthful Siegfried / the royal dame before, +And said: "Upon the journey / will I take no more, +But twelve good knights only: / for these rich dress provide, +For I would know full gladly / how 't doth with Kriemhild betide." + +65 + +Then sat at work fair women / by night and eke by day, +And rest indeed but little / from busy toil had they, +Until they had made ready / the dress Siegfried should wear. +Firm bent upon the journey, / no other counsel would he hear. + +66 + +His father bade a costly / garb for him prepare, +That leaving Siegmund's country / he the same might wear. +For all their glittering breastplates / were soon prepared beside, +And helmets firmly welded, / and shining shields long and wide. + +67 + +Then fast the day grew nearer / when they should thence depart. +Men and likewise women / went sorrowing in heart, +If that they should ever / see more their native land. +With full equipment laden / the sumpter horses there did stand. + +68 + +Their steeds were stately, furnished / with trappings rich with gold; +It were a task all bootless / to seek for knights more bold +Than were the gallant Siegfried / and his chosen band. +He longed to take departure / straightway for Burgundian land. + +69 + +Leave granted they with sadness, / both the king and queen, +The which to turn to gladness / sought the warrior keen, +And spake then: "Weep ye shall not / at all for sake of me, +Forever free from doubtings / about my safety may ye be." + +70 + +Stern warriors stood there sorrowing, / --in tears was many a maid. +I ween their hearts erred nothing, / as sad forebodings said +That 'mongst their friends so many / thereby were doomed to die. +Good cause had they to sorrow / at last o'er all their misery. + +71 + +Upon the seventh morning / to Worms upon the strand +Did come the keen knights riding. / Bright shone many a band +Of gold from their apparel / and rich equipment then; +And gently went their chargers / with Siegfried and his chosen men. + +72 + +New-made shields they carried / that were both strong and wide +And brightly shone their helmets / as thus to court did ride +Siegfried the keen warrior / into King Gunther's land. +Of knights before was never / beheld so richly clad a band. + +73 + +The points of their long scabbards / reached down unto the spur, +And spear full sharply pointed / bore each chosen warrior. +The one that Siegfried carried / in breadth was two good span, +And grimly cut its edges / when driven by the fearless man. + +74 + +Reins with gold all gleaming / held they in the hand, +The saddle-bands were silken. / So came they to the land. +On every side the people / to gape at them began, +And also out to meet them / the men that served King Gunther ran. + +75 + +Gallant men high-hearted, / knight and squire too, +Hastened to receive them, / for such respect was due, +And bade the guests be welcome / unto their master's land. +They took from them their chargers, / and shields as well from out the + hand. + +76 + +Then would they eke the chargers / lead forth unto their rest; +But straight the doughty Siegfried / to them these words addressed: +"Yet shall ye let our chargers / stand the while near by; +Soon take we hence our journey; / thereon resolved full well am I. + +77 + +"If that be known to any, / let him not delay, +Where I your royal master / now shall find, to say,-- +Gunther, king so mighty / o'er the land of Burgundy." +Then told him one amongst them / to whom was known where that might be: + +78 + +"If that the king thou seekest, / right soon may he be found. +Within that wide hall yonder / with his good knights around +But now I saw him sitting. / Thither do thou repair, +And thou may'st find around him / many a stately warrior there." + +79 + +Now also to the monarch / were the tidings told, +That within his castle / were knights arrived full bold, +All clad in shining armor / and apparelled gorgeously; +But not a man did know them / within the land of Burgundy. + +80 + +Thereat the king did wonder / whence were come to him +These knights adventure seeking / in dress so bright and trim, +And shields adorned so richly / that new and mighty were. +That none the thing could tell him / did grieve him sorely to hear. + +81 + +Outspake a knight then straightway, / Ortwein by name was he, +Strong and keen as any / well was he known to be: +"Since we of them know nothing, / bid some one quickly go +And fetch my uncle Hagen: / to him thou shalt the strangers show. + +82 + +"To him are known far kingdoms / and every foreign land, +And if he know these strangers / we soon shall understand." +The king then sent to fetch him: / with his train of men +Unto the king's high presence / in stately gear went he then. + +83 + +What were the king's good pleasure, / asked Hagen grim in war. +"In the court within my castle / are warriors from afar, +And no one here doth know them: / if them thou e'er didst see +In any land far distant, / now shalt thou, Hagen, tell to me." + +84 + +"That will I do, 'tis certain."-- / To a window then he went, +And on the unknown strangers / his keen eye he bent. +Well pleased him their equipment / and the rich dress they wore, +Yet ne'er had he beheld them / in land of Burgundy before. + +85 + +He said that whencesoever / these knights come to the Rhine, +They bear a royal message, / or are of princely line. +"Their steeds are so bedizened, / and their apparel rare: +No matter whence they journey, / high-hearted men in truth they are." + +86 + +Further then spake Hagen: / "As far as goes my ken, +Though I the noble Siegfried / yet have never seen, +Yet will I say meseemeth, / howe'er the thing may be, +This knight who seeks adventure, / and yonder stands so proud, is he. + +87 + +"'Tis some new thing he bringeth / hither to our land. +The valiant Nibelungen / fell by the hero's hand, +Schilbung and Nibelung, / from royal sire sprung; +Deeds he wrought most wondrous / anon when his strong arm he swung. + +88 + +"As once alone the hero / rode without company, +Found he before a mountain / --as hath been told to me-- +With the hoard of Nibelung / full many stalwart men; +To him had they been strangers / until he chanced to find them then. + +89 + +"The hoard of King Nibelung / entire did they bear +Forth from a mountain hollow. / And now the wonder hear, +How that they would share it, / these two Nibelung men. +This saw the fearless Siegfried, / and filled he was with wonder then. + +90 + +"He came so near unto them / that he the knights espied, +And they in turn him also. / One amongst them said: +'Here comes the doughty Siegfried, / hero of Netherland.' +Since 'mongst the Nibelungen / strange wonders wrought his mighty hand. + +91 + +"Right well did they receive him, / Schilbung and Nibelung, +And straight they both together, / these noble princes young, +Bade him mete out the treasure, / the full valorous man, +And so long time besought him / that he at last the task began. + +92 + +"As we have heard in story, / he saw of gems such store +That they might not be laden / on wagons full five score; +More still of gold all shining / from Nibelungenland. +'Twas all to be divided / between them by keen Siegfried's hand. + +93 + +"Then gave they him for hire / King Nibelung's sword. +And sooth to say, that service / brought them but small reward, +That for them there performed / Siegfried of dauntless mood. +His task he could not finish; / thereat they raged as were they wood. + +94 + +"They had there of their followers / twelve warriors keen, +And strong they were as giants: / what booted giants e'en? +Them slew straightway in anger / Siegfried's mighty hand, +And warriors seven hundred / he felled in Nibelungenland + +95 + +"With the sword full trusty, / Balmung that hight. +Full many a youthful warrior / from terror at the sight +Of that deadly weapon / swung by his mighty hand +Did render up his castle / and pledge him fealty in the land. + +96 + +"Thereto the kings so mighty, / them slew he both as well. +But into gravest danger / through Alberich he fell, +Who thought for his slain masters / vengeance to wreak straightway, +Until the mighty Siegfried / his wrath with strong arm did stay. + +97 + +"Nor could prevail against him / the Dwarf, howe'er he tried. +E'en as two wild lions / they coursed the mountainside, +Where he the sightless mantle[1] / from Alberich soon won. +Then Siegfried, knight undaunted, / held the treasure for his own. + +[1] This is the _tarnkappe_, a cloak that made the wearer invisible, + and also gave him the strength of twelve men. + +98 + +"Who then dared join the struggle, / all slain around they lay. +Then he bade the treasure / to draw and bear away +Thither whence 'twas taken / by the Nibelungen men. +Alberich for his valor / was then appointed Chamberlain. + +99 + +"An oath he had to swear him, / he'd serve him as his slave; +To do all kinds of service / his willing pledge he gave"-- +Thus spake of Tronje Hagen-- / "That has the hero done; +Might as great before him / was never in a warrior known. + +100 + +"Still know I more about him, / that has to me been told. +A dragon, wormlike monster, / slew once the hero bold. +Then in its blood he bathed him, / since when his skin hath been +So horn-hard, ne'er a weapon / can pierce it, as hath oft been seen. + +101 + +"Let us the brave knight-errant / receive so courteously +That we in nought shall merit / his hate, for strong is he. +He is so keen of spirit / he must be treated fair: +He has by his own valor / done many a deed of prowess rare." + +102 + +The monarch spake in wonder: / "In sooth thou tellest right. +Now see how proudly yonder / he stands prepared for fight, +He and his thanes together, / the hero wondrous keen! +To greet him we'll go thither, / and let our fair intent be seen." + +103 + +"That canst thou," out spake Hagen, / "well in honor do. +He is of noble kindred, / a high king's son thereto. +'Tis seen in all his bearing; / meseems in truth, God wot, +The tale is worth the hearing / that this bold knight has hither + brought." + +104 + +Then spake the mighty monarch: / "Be he right welcome here. +Keen is he and noble, / of fame known far and near. +So shall he be fair treated / in the land of Burgundy." +Down then went King Gunther, / and Siegfried with his men found he. + +105 + +The king and his knights with him / received so well the guest, +That the hearty greeting / did their good will attest. +Thereat in turn the stranger / in reverence bowed low, +That in their welcome to him / they did such courtesy bestow. + +106 + +"To me it is a wonder," / straightway spake the host, +"From whence, O noble Siegfried, / come to our land thou dost, +Or what here thou seekest / at Worms upon the Rhine." +Him the stranger answered: / "Put thou away all doubts of thine. + +107 + +"I oft have heard the tiding / within my sire's domain, +How at thy court resided / --and know this would I fain-- +Knights, of all the keenest, / --'tis often told me so-- +That e'er a monarch boasted: / now come I hither this to know. + +108 + +"Thyself have I heard also / high praised for knightly worth; +'Tis said a nobler monarch / ne'er lived in all the earth. +Thus speak of thee the people / in all the lands around. +Nor will I e'er give over / until in this the truth I've found. + +109 + +"I too am warrior noble / and born to wear a crown; +So would I right gladly / that thou of me shouldst own +That I of right am master / o'er people and o'er land. +Of this shall now my honor / and eke my head as pledges stand. + +110 + +"And art thou then so valiant / as hath to me been told, +I reck not, will he nill he / thy best warrior bold, +I'll wrest from thee in combat / whatever thou may'st have; +Thy lands and all thy castles / shall naught from change of masters + save." + +111 + +The king was seized with wonder / and all his men beside, +To see the manner haughty / in which the knight replied +That he was fully minded / to take from him his land. +It chafed his thanes to hear it, / who soon in raging mood did stand. + +112 + +"How could it be my fortune," / Gunther the king outspoke, +"What my sire long ruled over / in honor for his folk, +Now to lose so basely / through any vaunter's might? +In sooth 'twere nobly showing / that we too merit name of knight!" + +113 + +"Nowise will I give over," / was the keen reply. +"If peace through thine own valor / thy land cannot enjoy, +To me shall all be subject: / if heritage of mine +Through thy arm's might thou winnest, / of right shall all hence-forth be + thine. + +114 + +"Thy land and all that mine is, / at stake shall equal lie. +Whiche'er of us be victor / when now our strength we try, +To him shall all be subject, / the folk and eke the land." +But Hagen spake against it, / and Gernot too was quick at hand. + +115 + +"Such purpose have we never," / Gernot then said, +"For lands to combat ever, / that any warrior dead +Should lie in bloody battle. / We've mighty lands and strong; +Of right they call us master, / and better they to none belong." + +116 + +There stood full grim and moody / Gernot's friends around, +And there as well amongst them / was Ortwein to be found. +He spake: "This mild peace-making / doth grieve me sore at heart, +For by the doughty Siegfried / attacked all undeserved thou art. + +117 + +"If thou and thy two brothers / yourselves to help had naught, +And if a mighty army / he too had hither brought, +I trow I'd soon be able / to make this man so keen +His manner now so haughty / of need replace by meeker mien." + +118 + +Thereat did rage full sorely / the hero of Netherland: +"Never shall be measured / 'gainst me in fight thy hand. +I am a mighty monarch, / thou a king's serving-knight; +Of such as thou a dozen / dare not withstand me in the fight." + +119 + +For swords then called in anger / of Metz Sir Ortwein: +Son of Hagen's sister / he was, of Tronje's line. +That Hagen so long was silent / did grieve the king to see. +Gernot made peace between them: / a gallant knight and keen was he. + +120 + +Spake he thus to Ortwein: / "Curb now thy wrathful tongue, +For here the noble Siegfried / hath done us no such wrong; +We yet can end the quarrel / in peace,--such is my rede-- +And live with him in friendship; / that were for us a worthier deed." + +121 + +Then spake the mighty Hagen: / "Sad things do I forebode +For all thy train of warriors, / that this knight ever rode +Unto the Rhine thus armed. / 'Twere best he stayed at home; +For from my masters never / to him such wrong as this had come." + +122 + +But outspake Siegfried proudly, / whose heart was ne'er dismayed: +"An't please thee not, Sir Hagen, / what I now have said, +This arm shall give example / whereby thou plain shall see +How stern anon its power / here in Burgundy will be." + +123 + +"Yet that myself will hinder," / said then Gernot. +All his men forbade he / henceforth to say aught +With such unbridled spirit / to stir the stranger's ire. +Then Siegfried eke was mindful / of one most stately maid and fair. + +124 + +"Such strife would ill befit us," / Gernot spake again; +"For though should die in battle / a host of valiant men +'Twould bring us little honor / and ye could profit none." +Thereto gave Siegfried answer, / good King Siegmund's noble son: + +125 + +"Wherefore bides thus grim Hagen, / and Ortwein tardy is +To begin the combat / with all those friends of his, +Of whom he hath so many / here in Burgundy?" +Answer him they durst not, / for such was Gernot's stern decree. + +126 + +"Thou shalt to us be welcome," / outspake young Giselher, +"And all thy brave companions / that hither with thee fare. +Full gladly we'll attend thee, / I and all friends of mine." +For the guests then bade they / pour out in store of Gunther's wine. + +127 + +Then spake the stately monarch: / "But ask thou courteously, +And all that we call ours / stands at thy service free; +So with thee our fortune / we'll share in ill and good." +Thereat the noble Siegfried / a little milder was of mood. + +128 + +Then carefully was tended / all their knightly gear, +And housed in goodly manner / in sooth the strangers were, +All that followed Siegfried; / they found a welcome rest. +In Burgundy full gladly / anon was seen the noble guest. + +129 + +They showed him mickle honor / thereafter many a day, +And more by times a thousand / than I to you could say. +His might respect did merit, / ye may full well know that. +Scarce a man e'er saw him / who bore him longer any hate. + +130 + +And when they held their pastime, / the kings with many a man, +Then was he ever foremost; / whatever they began, +None there that was his equal, / --so mickle was his might-- +If they the stone were putting, / or hurling shaft with rival knight. + +131 + +As is the knightly custom, / before the ladies fair +To games they turned for pastime, / these knights of mettle rare; +Then ever saw they gladly / the hero of Netherland. +But he had fixed his fancy / to win one fairest maiden's hand. + +132 + +In all that they were doing / he'd take a ready part. +A winsome loving maiden / he bore within his heart; +Him only loved that lady, / whose face he ne'er had seen, +But she full oft in secret / of him spake fairest words, I ween. + +133 + +And when before the castle / they sped in tournament, +The good knights and squires, / oft-times the maiden went +And gazed adown from casement, / Kriemhild the princess rare. +Pastime there was none other / for her that could with this compare. + +134 + +And knew he she was gazing / whom in his heart he bore, +He joy enough had found him / in jousting evermore. +And might he only see her, / --that can I well believe-- +On earth through sight none other / his eyes could such delight receive. + +135 + +Whene'er with his companions / to castle court he went, +E'en as do now the people / whene'er on pleasure bent, +There stood 'fore all so graceful / Siegelind's noble son, +For whom in love did languish / the hearts of ladies many a one. + +136 + +Eke thought he full often: / "How shall it ever be, +That I the noble maiden / with my own eyes may see, +Whom I do love so dearly / and have for many a day? +To me is she a stranger, / which sorely grieves my heart to say." + +137 + +Whene'er the kings so mighty / rode o'er their broad domain, +Then of valiant warriors / they took a stately train. +With them abroad rode Siegfried, / which grieved those ladies sore: +--He too for one fair maiden / at heart a mickle burden bore. + +138 + +Thus with his hosts he lingered / --'tis every tittle true-- +In King Gunther's country / a year completely through, +And never once the meanwhile / the lovely maid did see, +Through whom such joy thereafter / for him, and eke such grief should be. + + + + +FOURTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried fought with the Saxons + +139 + +Now come wondrous tidings / to King Gunther's land, +By messengers brought hither / from far upon command +Of knights unknown who harbored / against him secret hate. +When there was heard the story, / at heart in sooth the grief was great. + +140 + +Of these I now will tell you: / There was King Luedeger +From out the land of Saxons, / a mighty warrior, +And eke from land of Denmark / Luedegast the king: +Whene'er they rode to battle / went they with mighty following. + +141 + +Come were now their messengers / to the land of Burgundy, +Sent forth by these foemen / in proud hostility. +Then asked they of the strangers / what tidings they did bring: +And when they heard it, straightway / led them to court before the king. + +142 + +Then spake to them King Gunther: / "A welcome, on my word. +Who 'tis that send you hither, / that have I not yet heard: +Now shall ye let me know it," / spake the monarch keen. +Then dreaded they full sorely / to see King Gunther's angry mien. + +143 + +"Wilt them, O king, permit us / the tidings straight to tell +That we now have brought thee, / no whit will we conceal, +But name thee both our masters / who us have hither sent: +Luedegast and Luedeger, / --to waste thy land is their intent. + +144 + +"Their hate hast thou incurred, / and thou shalt know in sooth +That high enraged against thee / are the monarchs both. +Their hosts they will lead hither / to Worms upon the Rhine; +They're helped by thanes full many-- / of this put off all doubts of + thine. + +145 + +"Within weeks a dozen / their march will they begin; +And if thy friends be valiant, / let that full quick be seen, +To help thee keep in safety / thy castles and thy land: +Full many a shield and helmet / shall here be cleft by warrior's hand. + +146 + +"Or wilt thou with them parley, / so let it quick be known, +Before their hosts so mighty / of warlike men come down +To Worms upon Rhine river / sad havoc here to make, +Whereby must death most certain / many a gallant knight o'ertake." + +147 + +"Bide ye now the meanwhile," / the king did answer kind, +"Till I take better counsel; / then shall ye know my mind. +Have I yet warriors faithful, / from these I'll naught conceal, +But to my friends I'll straightway / these warlike tidings strange + reveal." + +148 + +The lordly Gunther wondered / thereat and troubled sore, +As he the message pondered / in heart and brooded o'er. +He sent to fetch grim Hagen / and others of his men, +And bade likewise in hurry / to court bring hither Gernot then. + +149 + +Thus at his word his trusted / advisers straight attend. +He spake: "Our land to harry / foes all unknown will send +Of men a mighty army; / a grievous wrong is this. +Small cause have we e'er given / that they should wish us aught amiss." + +150 + +"Our swords ward such things from us," / Gernot then said; +"Since but the fated dieth, / so let all such lie dead. +Wherefore I'll e'er remember / what honor asks of me: +Whoe'er hath hate against us / shall ever here right welcome be." + +151 + +Then spake the doughty Hagen: / "Methinks 'twould scarce be good; +Luedegast and Luedeger / are men of wrathful mood. +Help can we never summon, / the days are now so few." +So spake the keen old warrior, / "'Twere well Siegfried the tidings + knew." + +152 + +The messengers in the borough / were harbored well the while, +And though their sight was hateful, / in hospitable style +As his own guests to tend them / King Gunther gave command, +Till 'mongst his friends he learned / who by him in his need would + stand. + +153 + +The king was filled with sorrow / and his heart was sad. +Then saw his mournful visage / a knight to help full glad, +Who could not well imagine / what 'twas that grieved him so. +Then begged he of King Gunther / the tale of this his grief to know. + +154 + +"To me it is great wonder," / said Siegfried to the king, +"How thou of late hast changed / to silent sorrowing +The joyous ways that ever / with us thy wont have been." +Then unto him gave answer / Gunther the full stately thane: + +155 + +"'Tis not to every person / I can the burden say +That ever now in secret / upon my heart doth weigh: +To well-tried friends and steady / are told our inmost woes." +--Siegfried at first was pallid, / but soon his blood like fire up-rose. + +156 + +He spake unto the monarch: / "To thee I've naught denied. +All ills that now do threaten / I'll help to turn aside. +And if but friends thou seekest, / of them the first I'll be, +And trow I well with honor / till death to serve thee faithfully." + +157 + +"God speed thee well, Sir Siegfried, / for this thy purpose fair: +And though such help in earnest / thy arm should render ne'er, +Yet do I joy at hearing / thou art so true to me. +And live I yet a season, / right heartily repaid 'twill be. + +158 + +"Know will I also let thee / wherefore I sorrowing stand. +Through messengers from my foemen / have tidings reached my land +That they with hosts of warriors / will ride my country o'er; +Such thing to us did never / thanes of any land before." + +159 + +"Small cause is that for grieving," / said then Siegfried; +"But calm thy troubled spirit / and hearken to my rede: +Let me for thee acquire / honor and vantage too, +And bid thou now assemble / for service eke thy warriors true. + +160 + +"And had thy mighty enemies / to help them now at hand +Good thanes full thirty thousand, / against them all I'd stand, +Had I but one good thousand: / put all thy trust in me." +Then answered him King Gunther: / "Thy help shall full requited be." + +161 + +"Then bid for me to summon / a thousand of thy men, +Since I now have with me / of all my knightly train +None but twelve knights only; / then will I guard thy land. +For thee shall service faithful / be done alway by Siegfried's hand. + +162 + +"Herein shall help us Hagen / and eke Ortwein, +Dankwart and Sindold, / those trusted knights of thine; +And with us too shall journey / Volker, the valiant man; +The banner he shall carry: / bestow it better ne'er I can. + +163 + +"Back to their native country / the messengers may go; +They'll see us there right quickly, / let them full surely know, +So that all our castles / peace undisturbed shall have." +Then bade the king to summon / his friends with all their warriors brave. + +164 + +To court returned the heralds / King Luedeger had sent, +And on their journey homeward / full joyfully they went. +King Gunther gave them presents / that costly were and good, +And granted them safe convoy; / whereat they were of merry mood. + +165 + +"Tell ye my foes," spake Gunther, / "when to your land ye come, +Than making journeys hither / they better were at home; +But if they still be eager / to make such visit here, +Unless my friends forsake me, / cold in sooth shall be their cheer." + +166 + +Then for the messengers / rich presents forth they bore, +Whereof in sooth to give them / Gunther had goodly store: +And they durst not refuse them / whom Luedeger had sent. +Leave then they took immediate, / and homeward joyfully they went. + +167 + +When to their native Denmark / the messengers returned, +And the king Luedegast / the answer too had learned, +They at the Rhine had sent him, / --when that to him was told, +His wrath was all unbounded / to have reply in words so bold. + +168 + +'Twas said their warriors numbered / many a man full keen: +"There likewise among them / with Gunther have we seen +Of Netherland a hero, / the same that Siegfried hight." +King Luedegast was grieved, / when he their words had heard aright. + +169 + +When throughout all Denmark / the tidings quick spread o'er, +Then in hot haste they summoned / helpers all the more, +So that King Luedegast, / 'twixt friends from far and near, +Had knights full twenty thousand / all furnished well with shield and + spear. + +170 + +Then too his men did summon / of Saxony Luedeger, +Till they good forty thousand, / and more, had gathered there, +With whom to make the journey / 'gainst the land of Burgundy. +--At home likewise the meanwhile / King Gunther had sent forth decree + +171 + +Mighty men to summon / of his own and brothers twain, +Who against the foemen / would join the armed train. +In haste they made them ready, / for right good cause they had. +Amongst them must thereafter / full many a noble thane lie dead. + +172 + +To march they quick made ready. / And when they thence would fare, +The banner to the valiant / Volker was given to bear, +As they began the journey / from Worms across the Rhine; +Strong of arm grim Hagen / was chosen leader of the line. + +173 + +With them there rode Sindold / and eke the keen Hunold +Who oft at hands of Gunther / had won rewards of gold; +Dankwart, Hagen's brother, / and Ortwein beside, +Who all could well with honor / in train of noble warriors ride. + +174 + +"King Gunther," spake then Siegfried, / "stay thou here at home; +Since now thy knights so gallant / with me will gladly come, +Rest thou here with fair ladies, / and be of merry mood: +I trow we'll keep in safety / thy land and honor as we should. + +175 + +"And well will I see to it / that they at home remain, +Who fain would ride against thee / to Worms upon the Rhine. +Against them straight we'll journey / into their land so far +That they'll be meeker minded / who now such haughty vaunters are." + +176 + +Then from the Rhine through Hesse / the hosts of knights rode on +Toward the land of Saxons, / where battle was anon. +With fire and sword they harried / and laid the country waste, +So that both the monarchs / full well the woes of war did taste. + +177 + +When came they to the border / the train-men onward pressed. +With thought of battle-order / Siegfried the thanes addressed: +"Who now shall guard our followers / from danger in the rear?" +In sooth like this the Saxons / in battle worsted never were. + +178 + +Then said they: "On the journey / the men shall guarded be +By the valiant Dankwart, / --a warrior swift is he; +So shall we lose the fewer / by men of Luedeger. +Let him and Ortwein with him / be chosen now to guard the rear." + +179 + +Spake then the valiant Siegfried: / "Myself will now ride on, +And against our enemies / will keep watch in the van, +Till I aright discover / where they perchance may be." +The son of fair Queen Siegelind / did arm him then immediately. + +180 + +The folk he left to Hagen / when ready to depart, +And as well to Gernot, / a man of dauntless heart. +Into the land of Saxons / alone he rode away, +And by his hand was severed / many a helmet's band that day. + +181 + +He found a mighty army / that lay athwart the plain, +Small part of which outnumbered / all those in his own train: +Full forty thousand were they / or more good men of might. +The hero high in spirit / saw right joyfully the sight. + +182 + +Then had eke a warrior / from out the enemy +To guard the van gone forward, / all armed cap-a-pie. +Him saw the noble Siegfried, / and he the valiant man; +Each one straight the other / to view with angry mien began. + +183 + +Who he was I'll tell you / that rode his men before, +--A shield of gold all shining / upon his arm he bore-- +In sooth it was King Luedegast / who there the van did guard. +Straightway the noble Siegfried / full eagerly against him spurred. + +184 + +Now singled out for combat / him, too, had Luedegast. +Then full upon each other / they spurred their chargers fast, +As on their shields they lowered / their lances firm and tight, +Whereat the lordly monarch / soon found himself in sorry plight. + +185 + +After the shock their chargers / bore the knights so fast +Onward past each other / as flew they on the blast. +Then turned they deftly backward / obedient to the rein, +As with their swords contested / the grim and doughty fighters twain. + +186 + +When Siegfried struck in anger / far off was heard the blow, +And flew from off the helmet, / as if 'twere all aglow, +The fiery sparks all crackling / beneath his hand around. +Each warrior in the other / a foeman worth his mettle found. + +187 + +Full many a stroke with vigor / dealt eke King Luedegast, +And on each other's buckler / the blows fell thick and fast. +Then thirty men discovered / their master's sorry plight: +But ere they came to help him / had doughty Siegfried won the fight. + +188 + +With three mighty gashes / which he had dealt the king +Through his shining breastplate / made fast with many a ring. +The sword with sharpest edges / from wounds brought forth the blood, +Whereat King Luedegast / apace fell into gloomy mood. + +189 + +To spare his life he begged him, / his land he pledged the knight, +And told him straight moreover, / that Luedegast he hight. +Then came his knights to help him, / they who there had seen +How that upon the vanguard / fierce fight betwixt the twain had been. + +190 + +After duel ended, / did thirty yet withstand +Of knights that him attended; / but there the hero's hand +Kept safe his noble captive / with blows of wondrous might. +And soon wrought greater ruin / Siegfried the full gallant knight. + +191 + +Beneath his arm of valor / the thirty soon lay dead. +But one the knight left living, / who thence full quickly sped +To tell abroad the story / how he the others slew; +In sooth the blood-red helmet / spake all the hapless tidings true. + +192 + +Then had the men of Denmark / for all their grief good cause, +When it was told them truly / their king a captive was. +They told it to King Luedeger, / when he to rage began +In anger all unbounded: / for him had grievous harm been done. + +193 + +The noble King Luedegast / was led a prisoner then +By hand of mighty Siegfried / back to King Gunther's men, +And placed in hands of Hagen: / and when they did hear +That 'twas the king of Denmark / they not a little joyful were. + +194 + +He bade the men of Burgundy / then bind the banners on. +"Now forward!" Siegfried shouted, / "here shall yet more be done, +An I but live to see it; / ere this day's sun depart, +Shall mourn in land of Saxons / full many a goodly matron's heart. + +195 + +"Ye warriors from Rhineland, / to follow me take heed, +And I unto the army / of Luedeger will lead. +Ere we again turn backward / to the land of Burgundy +Helms many hewn asunder / by hand of good knights there shall be." + +196 + +To horse then hastened Gernot / and with him mighty men. +Volker keen in battle / took up the banner then; +He was a doughty Fiddler / and rode the host before. +There, too, every follower / a stately suit of armor wore. + +197 + +More than a thousand warriors / they there had not a man, +Saving twelve knights-errant. / To rise the dust began +In clouds along the highway / as they rode across the fields, +And gleaming in the sunlight / were seen the brightly shining shields. + +198 + +Meanwhile eke was nearing / of Saxons a great throng, +Each a broadsword bearing / that mickle was and long, +With blade that cut full sorely / when swung in strong right hand. +'Gainst strangers were they ready / to guard their castles and their + land. + +199 + +The leaders forth to battle / led the warriors then. +Come was also Siegfried / with his twelve chosen men, +Whom he with him hither / had brought from Netherland. +That day in storm of battle / was blood-bespattered many a hand. + +200 + +Sindold and Hunold / and Gernot as well, +Beneath their hands in battle / full many a hero fell, +Ere that their deeds of valor / were known throughout the host. +Through them must many a stately / matron weep for warrior lost. + +201 + +Volker and Hagen / and Ortwein in the fight +Lustily extinguished / full many a helmet's light +With blood from wounds down flowing,-- / keen fighters every one. +And there by Dankwart also / was many a mickle wonder done. + +202 + +The knights of Denmark tested / how they could weapons wield. +Clashing there together / heard ye many a shield +And 'neath sharp swords resounding, / swung by many an arm. +The Saxons keen in combat / wrought 'mid their foes a grievous harm. + +203 + +When the men of Burgundy / pressed forward to the fight, +Gaping wounds full many / hewed they there with might. +Then flowing down o'er saddle / in streams was seen the blood, +So fought for sake of honor / these valiant riders keen and good. + +204 + +Loudly were heard ringing, / wielded by hero's hand, +The sharply-cutting weapons, / where they of Netherland +Their master followed after / into the thickest throng: +Wherever Siegfried led them / rode too those valiant knights along. + +205 + +Of warriors from Rhine river / could follow not a one. +There could be seen by any / a stream of blood flow down +O'er brightly gleaming helmet / 'neath Siegfried's mighty hand, +Until King Luedeger / before him with his men did stand. + +206 + +Three times hither and thither / had he the host cut through +From one end to the other. / Now come was Hagen too +Who helped him well in battle / to vent his warlike mood. +That day beneath his valor / must die full many a rider good. + +207 + +When the doughty Luedeger / Siegfried there found, +As he swung high in anger / his arm for blows around +And with his good sword Balmung / knights so many slew, +Thereat was the keen warrior / filled with grief and anger too. + +208 + +Then mickle was the thronging / and loud the broadswords clashed, +As all their valiant followers / 'gainst one another dashed. +Then struggled all the fiercer / both sides the fight to win; +The hosts joined with each other: / 'twas frightful there to hear the + din. + +209 + +To the monarch of the Saxons / it had been told before, +His brother was a captive, / which grieved his heart right sore. +He knew not that had done it / fair Siegelind's son, +For rumor said 'twas Gernot. / Full well he learned the truth anon. + +210 + +King Luedeger struck so mighty / when fierce his anger rose, +That Siegfried's steed beneath him / staggered from the blows, +But forthwith did recover; / then straight his rider keen +Let all his furious mettle / in slaughter of his foes be seen. + +211 + +There helped him well grim Hagen, / and Gernot in the fray, +Dankwart and Volker; / dead many a knight there lay. +Sindold and Hunold / and Ortwein, doughty thane, +By them in that fierce struggle / was many a valiant warrior slain. + +212 + +Unparted in storm of battle / the gallant leaders were, +Around them over helmet / flew there many a spear +Through shield all brightly shining, / from hand of mighty thane: +And on the glancing armor / was seen full many a blood-red stain. + +213 + +Amid the hurly-burly / down fell many a man +To ground from off his charger. / Straight 'gainst each other ran +Siegfried the keen rider / and eke King Luedeger. +Then flew from lance the splinters / and hurled was many a pointed spear. + +214 + +'Neath Siegfried's hand so mighty / from shield flew off the band. +And soon to win the victory / thought he of Netherland +Over the valiant Saxons, / of whom were wonders seen. +Heigh-ho! in shining mail-rings / many a breach made Dankwart keen! + +215 + +Upon the shining buckler / that guarded Siegfried's breast +Soon espied King Luedeger / a painted crown for crest; +By this same token knew he / it was the doughty man, +And to his friends he straightway / amid the battle loud began: + +216 + +"Give o'er from fighting further, / good warriors every one! +Amongst our foes now see I / Siegmund's noble son, +Of netherland the doughty / knight on victory bent. +Him has the evil Devil / to scourge the Saxons hither sent." + +217 + +Then bade he all the banners / amid the storm let down. +Peace he quickly sued for: / 'Twas granted him anon, +But he must now a hostage / be ta'en to Gunther's land. +This fate had forced upon him / the fear of Siegfried's mighty hand. + +218 + +They thus by common counsel / left off all further fight. +Hacked full many a helmet / and shields that late were bright +From hands down laid they weary; / as many as there might be, +With stains they all were bloody / 'neath hands of the men of Burgundy. + +219 + +Each whom he would took captive, / now they had won the fight. +Gernot, the noble hero, / and Hagen, doughty knight, +Bade bear forth the wounded. / Back led they with them then +Unto the land of Burgundy / five hundred stalwart fighting-men. + +220 + +The knights, of victory cheated, / their native Denmark sought, +Nor had that day the Saxons / with such high valor fought, +That one could praise them for it, / which caused the warriors pain. +Then wept their friends full sorely / at home for those in battle slain. + +221 + +For the Rhine then laden / they let their armor be. +Siegfried, the knight so doughty, / had won the victory +With his few chosen followers; / that he had nobly done, +Could not but free acknowledge / King Gunther's warriors every one. + +222 + +To Worms sent Gernot riding / now a messenger, +And of the joyous tiding / soon friends at home were ware, +How that it well had prospered / with him and all his men. +Fought that day with valor / for honor had those warriors keen. + +223 + +The messenger sped forward / and told the tidings o'er. +Then joyfully they shouted / who boded ill before, +To hear the welcome story / that now to them was told. +From ladies fair and noble / came eager questions manifold, + +224 + +Who all the fair fortune / of King Gunther's men would know. +One messenger they ordered / unto Kriemhild to go. +But that was done in secret: / she durst let no one see, +For he was 'mongst those warriors / whom she did love so faithfully. + +225 + +When to her own apartments / was come the messenger +Joyfully addressed him / Kriemhild the maiden fair: +"But tell me now glad tidings, / and gold I'll give to thee, +And if thou tell'st not falsely, / good friend thou'lt ever find in me. + +226 + +"How has my good brother / Gernot in battle sped, +And how my other kinsmen? / Lies any of them dead? +Who wrought most deeds of valor? / --That shall thou let me know." +Then spake the messenger truly: / "No knight but did high valor show. + +227 + +"But in the dire turmoil / rode rider none so well, +O Princess fair and noble, / since I must truly tell, +As the stranger knight full noble / who comes from Netherland; +There deeds of mickle wonder / were wrought by doughty Siegfried's hand. + +228 + +"Whate'er have all the warriors / in battle dared to do, +Dankwart and Hagen / and the other knights so true, +Howe'er they fought for honor, / 'twas naught but idle play +Beside what there wrought Siegfried, / King Siegmund's son, amid the + fray. + +229 + +"Beneath their hands in battle / full many a hero fell, +Yet all the deeds of wonder / no man could ever tell, +Wrought by the hand of Siegfried, / when rode he 'gainst the foe: +And weep aloud must women / for friends by his strong arm laid low. + +230 + +"There, too, the knight she loved / full many a maid must lose. +Were heard come down on helmet / so loud his mighty blows, +That they from gaping gashes / brought forth the flowing blood. +In all that maketh noble / he is a valiant knight and good. + +231 + +"Many a deed of daring / of Metz Sir Ortwein wrought: +For all was evil faring / whom he with broadsword caught, +Doomed to die that instant, / or wounded sore to fall. +And there thy valiant brother / did greater havoc work than all + +232 + +"That e'er in storm of battle / was done by warrior bold. +Of all those chosen warriors / let eke the truth be told: +The proud Burgundian heroes / have made it now right plain, +That they can free from insult / their country's honor well maintain. + +233 + +"Beneath their hands was often / full many a saddle bare, +When o'er the field resounding / their bright swords cut the air. +The warriors from Rhine river / did here such victory win +That for their foes 'twere better / if they such meeting ne'er had seen. + +234 + +"Keen the knights of Tronje / 'fore all their valor showed, +When with their stalwart followers / against their foes they rode; +Slain by the hand of Hagen / must knights so many be, +'Twill long be in the telling / here in the land of Burgundy. + +235 + +"Sindold and Hunold, / Gernot's men each one, +And the valiant Rumold / have all so nobly done, +King Luedeger will ever / have right good cause to rue +That he against thy kindred / at Rhine dared aught of harm to do. + +236 + +"And deeds of all most wondrous / e'er done by warrior keen +In earliest time or latest, / by mortal ever seen, +Wrought there in lusty manner / Siegfried with doughty hand. +Rich hostages he bringeth / with him unto Gunther's land. + +237 + +"By his own strength subdued them / the hero unsurpassed +And brought down dire ruin / upon King Luedegast, +Eke on the King of Saxons / his brother Luedeger. +Now hearken to the story / I tell thee, noble Princess fair. + +238 + +"Them both hath taken captive / Siegfried's doughty hand. +Hostages were so many / ne'er brought into this land +As to the Rhine come hither / through his great bravery." +Than these could never tidings / unto her heart more welcome be. + +239 + +"With captives home they're hieing, / five hundred men or mo', +And of the wounded dying / Lady shalt thou know, +Full eighty blood-stained barrows / unto Burgundian land, +Most part hewn down in battle / beneath keen Siegfried's doughty hand. + +240 + +"Who message sent defiant / unto the Rhine so late +Must now as Gunther's prisoners / here abide their fate. +Bringing such noble captives / the victors glad return." +Then glowed with joy the princess / when she the tidings glad did learn. + +241 + +Her cheeks so full of beauty / with joy were rosy-red, +That passed he had uninjured / through all the dangers dread, +The knight she loved so dearly, / Siegfried with doughty arm. +Good cause she had for joying / o'er all her friends escaped from harm. + +242 + +Then spake the beauteous maiden: / "Glad news thou hast told me, +Wherefor now rich apparel / thy goodly meed shall be, +And to thee shall be given / ten marks of gold as well." +'Tis thus a thing right pleasant / to ladies high such news to tell. + +243 + +The presents rich they gave him, / gold and apparel rare. +Then hastened to the casement / full many a maiden fair, +And on the street looked downward: / hither riding did they see +Many a knight high-hearted / into the land of Burgundy. + +244 + +There came who 'scaped uninjured, / and wounded borne along, +All glad to hear the greetings / of friends, a joyful throng. +To meet his friends the monarch / rode out in mickle glee: +In joying now was ended / all his full great anxiety. + +245 + +Then did he well his warriors / and eke the strangers greet; +And for a king so mighty / 'twere nothing else but meet +That he should thank right kindly / the gallant men each one, +Who had in storm of battle / the victory so bravely won. + +246 + +Then of his friends King Gunther / bade tidings tell straightway, +Of all his men how many / were fallen in the fray. +Lost had he none other / than warriors three score: +Then wept they for the heroes, / as since they did for many more. + +247 + +Shields full many brought they / all hewn by valiant hand, +And many a shattered helmet / into King Gunther's hand. +The riders then dismounted / from their steeds before the hall, +And a right hearty welcome / from friends rejoicing had they all. + +248 + +Then did they for the warriors / lodging meet prepare, +And for his guests the monarch / bade full well have care. +He bade them take the wounded / and tend them carefully, +And toward his enemies also / his gentle bearing might ye see. + +249 + +To Luedeger then spake he: / "Right welcome art thou here. +Through fault of thine now have I / lost many friends full dear, +For which, have I good fortune, / thou shall right well atone. +God rich reward my liegemen, / such faithfulness to me they've shown." + +250 + +"Well may'st thou thank them, truly," / spake then Luedeger; +"Hostages so noble / won a monarch ne'er. +For chivalrous protection / rich goods we offer thee, +That thou now right gracious / to us thy enemies shalt be." + +251 + +"I'll grant you both your freedom," / spake the king again; +"But that my enemies surely / here by me remain, +Therefor I'll have good pledges / they ne'er shall quit my land, +Save at my royal pleasure." / Thereto gave Luedeger the hand. + +252 + +Sweet rest then found the weary / their tired limbs to aid, +And gently soon on couches / the wounded knights were laid; +Mead and wine right ruddy / they poured out plenteously: +Than they and all their followers / merrier men there none might be. + +253 + +Their shields all hacked in battle / secure were laid away; +And not a few of saddles / stained with blood that day, +Lest women weep to see them, / hid they too from sight. +Full many a keen rider / home came aweary from the fight. + +254 + +The host in gentlest manner / did his guests attend: +The land around with stranger / was crowded, and with friend. +They bade the sorely wounded / nurse with especial care: +Whereby the knights high-hearted / 'neath all their wounds knew not + despair. + +255 + +Who there had skill in healing / received reward untold, +Silver all unweighed / and thereto ruddy gold +For making whole the heroes / after the battle sore. +To all his friends the monarch / gave presents rich in goodly store. + +256 + +Who there again was minded / to take his homeward way +They bade, as one a friend doth, / yet a while to stay. +The king did then take counsel / how to reward each one, +For they his will in battle / like liegemen true had nobly done. + +257 + +Then outspake royal Gernot: / "Now let them homeward go; +After six weeks are over, / --thus our friends shall know-- +To hold high feast they're bidden / hither to come again; +Many a knight now lying / sore wounded will be healed ere then. + +258 + +Of Netherland the hero / would also then take leave. +When of this King Gunther / did tidings first receive, +The knight besought he kindly / not yet his leave to take: +To this he'd ne'er consented / an it were not for Kriemhild's sake. + +259 + +A prince he was too noble / to take the common pay; +He had right well deserved it / that the king alway +And all his warriors held him / in honor, for they had seen +What by his arm in battle / bravely had accomplished been. + +260 + +He stayed there yet a little / for the maiden's sake alone, +Whom he would see so gladly. / And all fell out full soon +As he at heart had wished it: / well known to him was she. +Home to his father's country / joyously anon rode he. + +261 + +The king bade at all seasons / keep up the tournament, +And many a youthful rider / forth to the lists there went. +The while were seats made ready / by Worms upon the strand +For all who soon were coming / unto the Burgundian land. + +262 + +In the meantime also, / ere back the knights returned, +Had Kriemhild, noble lady, / the tidings likewise learned, +The king would hold high feasting / with all his gallant men. +There was a mickle hurry, / and busy were fair maidens then + +263 + +With dresses and with wimples / that they there should wear. +Ute, queen so stately, / the story too did hear, +How to them were coming / proud knights of highest worth. +Then from enfolding covers / were store of dresses rich brought forth. + +264 + +Such love she bore her children / she bade rich dress prepare, +Wherewith adorned were ladies / and many a maiden fair, +And not a few young riders / in the land of Burgundy. +For strangers many bade she / rich garments eke should measured be. + + + + +FIFTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried first saw Kriemhild + +265 + +Unto the Rhine now daily / the knights were seen to ride, +Who there would be full gladly / to share the festive tide. +To all that thither journeyed / to the king to show them true, +In plenty them were given / steeds and rich apparel too. + +266 + +And soon were seats made ready / for every noble guest, +As we have heard the story, / for highest and for best, +Two and thirty princes / at the festival. +Then vied with one another / to deck themselves the ladies all. + +267 + +Never was seen idle / the young Prince Giselher: +The guests and all their followers / received full kindly were +By him and eke by Gernot / and their men every one. +The noble thanes they greeted / as ever 'tis in honor done. + +268 + +With gold bright gleaming saddles / unto the land they brought, +Good store of rich apparel / and shields all richly wrought +Unto the Rhine they carried / to that high festival. +And joyous days were coming / for the wounded warriors all. + +269 + +They who yet on couches / lay wounded grievously +For joy had soon forgotten / how bitter death would be: +The sick and all the ailing / no need of pity had. +Anent the days of feasting / were they o'er the tidings glad, + +270 + +How they should make them merry / there where all were so. +Delight beyond all measure, / of joys an overflow, +Had in sooth the people / seen on every hand: +Then rose a mickle joyance / over all King Gunther's land. + +271 + +Full many a warrior valiant / one morn at Whitsuntide +All gorgeously apparelled / was thither seen to ride, +Five thousand men or over, / where the feast should be; +And vied in every quarter / knight with knight in revelry. + +272 + +Thereof the host was mindful, / for he well did understand +How at heart right warmly / the hero of Netherland +Loved alone his sister, / though her he ne'er had seen, +Who praised for wondrous beauty / before all maidens else had been. + +273 + +Then spake the thane so noble / of Metz Sir Ortwein: +"Wilt thou full be honored / by every guest of thine, +Then do them all the pleasure / the winsome maids to see, +That are held so high in honor / here in the land of Burgundy. + +274 + +"What were a man's chief pleasure, / his very joy of life, +An 't were not a lovely maiden / or a stately wife? +Then let the maid thy sister / before thy guests appear." +--Brave thanes did there full many / at heart rejoice the rede to hear. + +275 + +"Thy words I'll gladly follow," / then the monarch said, +And all the knights who heard him / ere thereat right glad. +Then told was Queen Ute / and eke her daughter fair, +That they with maids in waiting / unto the court should soon repair. + +276 + +Then in well-stored wardrobes / rich attire they sought, +And forth from folding covers / their glittering dresses brought, +Armbands and silken girdles / of which they many had. +And zealous to adorn her / was then full many a winsome maid. + +277 + +Full many a youthful squire / upon that day did try, +By decking of his person, / to win fair lady's eye; +For the which great good fortune / he'd take no monarch's crown: +They longed to see those maidens, / whom they before had never known. + +278 + +For her especial service / the king did order then +To wait upon his sister / a hundred of his men, +As well upon his mother: / they carried sword in hand. +That was the court attendance / there in the Burgundian land. + +279 + +Ute, queen so stately, / then came forth with her: +And with the queen in waiting / ladies fair there were, +A hundred or over, / in festal robes arrayed. +Eke went there with Kriemhild / full many a fair and winsome maid. + +280 + +Forth from their own apartments / they all were seen to go: +There was a mickle pressing / of good knights to and fro, +Who hoped to win the pleasure, / if such a thing might be, +The noble maiden Kriemhild, / delight of every eye, to see. + +281 + +Now came she fair and lovely, / as the ruddy sun of morn +From misty clouds emerging. / Straight he who long had borne +Her in his heart and loved her, / from all his gloom was freed, +As so stately there before him / he saw the fair and lovely maid. + +282 + +Her rich apparel glittered / with many a precious stone, +And with a ruddy beauty / her cheeks like roses shone. +Though you should wish to do so, / you could not say, I ween, +That e'er a fairer lady / in all the world before was seen. + +283 + +As in a sky all starlit / the moon shines out so bright, +And through the cloudlets peering / pours down her gentle light, +E'en so was Kriemhild's beauty / among her ladies fair: +The hearts of gallant heroes / were gladder when they saw her there. + +284 + +The richly clad attendants / moved stately on before, +And the valiant thanes high-hearted / stood patiently no more, +But pressed right eager forward / to see the lovely maid: +In noble Siegfried's bosom / alternate joy and anguish swayed. + +285 + +He thought with heart despairing, / "How could it ever be, +That I should win thy favor? / There hoped I foolishly. +But had I e'er to shun thee, / then were I rather dead." +And oft, to think upon it, / the color from his visage fled. + +286 + +The noble son of Siegmund / did there so stately stand +As if his form were pictured / by good old master's hand +Upon a piece of parchment. / All who saw, confessed +That he of all good heroes / was the stateliest and the best. + +287 + +The fair Kriemhild's attendants / gave order to make way +On all sides for the ladies, / and willing thanes obey. +To see their noble bearing / did every warrior cheer; +Full many a stately lady / of gentle manner born was there. + +288 + +Then outspake of Burgundy / Gernot the valiant knight: +"To him who thus has helped thee / so bravely in the fight, +Gunther, royal brother, / shalt thou like favor show, +A thane before all others; / he's worthy of it well, I trow. + +289 + +"Let then the doughty Siegfried / unto my sister go +To have the maiden's greetings, / --'twill be our profit so. +She that ne'er greeted hero / shall greet him courteously, +That thus the stately warrior / for aye our faithful friend may be." + +290 + +The king's knights hastened gladly / upon his high command +And told these joyous tidings / to the prince of Netherland. +"It is the king's good pleasure / that thou to court shalt go, +To have his sister's greetings; / to honor thee 'tis ordered so." + +291 + +Then was the thane full valiant / thereat soon filled with joy. +Yea, bore he in his bosom / delight without alloy +At thought that he should straightway / Ute's fair daughter see. +Siegfried anon she greeted / in courteous manner lovingly. + +292 + +As she saw the knight high-hearted / there before her stand, +Blushed red and spake the maiden, / the fairest of the land: +"A welcome, brave Sir Siegfried, / thou noble knight and good." +As soon as he had heard it, / the hearty greeting cheered his mood. + +293 + +Before her low he bended; / him by the hand took she, +And by her onward wended / the knight full willingly. +They cast upon each other / fond glances many a one, +The knight and eke the maiden; / furtively it all was done. + +294 + +Whether he pressed friendly / that hand as white as snow +From the love he bore her, / that I do not know; +Yet believe I cannot / that this was left undone, +For straightway showed the maiden / that he her heart had fully won. + +295 + +In the sunny summer season / and in the month of May +Had his heart seen never / before so glad a day, +Nor one so fully joyous, / as when he walked beside +That maiden rich in beauty / whom fain he'd choose to be his bride. + +296 + +Then thought many a warrior: / "Were it likewise granted me +To walk beside the maiden, / just as now I see, +Or to lie beside her, / how gladly were that done!" +But ne'er a knight more fully / had gracious lady's favor won. + +297 + +From all the lands far distant / were guests distinguished there, +But fixed each eye was only / upon this single pair. +By royal leave did Kriemhild / kiss then the stately knight: +In all the world he never / before had known so rare delight. + +298 + +Then full of strange forebodings, / of Denmark spake the king: +"This full loving greeting / to many woe will bring, +--My heart in secret warns me-- / through Siegfried's doughty hand. +God give that he may never / again be seen within my land." + +299 + +On all sides then 'twas ordered / 'fore Kriemhild and her train +Of women make free passage. / Full many a valiant thane +With her unto the minster / in courtly way went on. +But from her side was parted / the full stately knight anon. + +300 + +Then went she to the minster, / and with her many a maid. +In such rich apparel / Kriemhild was arrayed, +That hearty wishes many / there were made in vain: +Her comely form delighted / the eye of many a noble thane. + +301 + +Scarce could tarry Siegfried / till mass was sung the while. +And surely did Dame Fortune / upon him kindly smile, +To him she was so gracious / whom in his heart he bore. +Eke did he the maiden, / as she full well deserved, adore. + +302 + +As after mass then Kriemhild / came to the minster door, +The knight his homage offered, / as he had done before. +Then began to thank him / the full beauteous maid, +That he her royal brothers / did 'gainst their foes so nobly aid. + +303 + +"God speed thee, Sir Siegfried," / spake the maiden fair, +"For thou hast well deserved / that all these warriors are, +As it hath now been told me, / right grateful unto thee." +Then gan he cast his glances / on the Lady Kriemhild lovingly. + +304 + +"True will I ever serve them," / --so spake the noble thane-- +"And my head shall never / be laid to rest again, +Till I, if life remaineth, / have their good favor won. +In sooth, my Lady Kriemhild, / for thy fair grace it all is done." + +305 + +Ne'er a day passed over / for a twelve of happy days, +But saw they there beside him / the maiden all did praise, +As she before her kinsmen / to court would daily go: +It pleased the thane full highly / that they did him such honor show. + +306 + +Delight and great rejoicing, / a mighty jubilee, +Before King Gunther's castle / daily might ye see, +Without and eke within it, / 'mongst keen men many a one. +By Ortwein and by Hagen / great deeds and wondrous there were done. + +307 + +Whate'er was done by any, / in all they ready were +To join in way right lusty, / both the warriors rare: +Whereby 'mongst all the strangers / they won an honored name, +And through their deeds so wondrous / of Gunther's land spread far the + fame. + +308 + +Who erstwhile lay sore wounded / now were whole again, +And fain would share the pastime, / with all the king's good men; +With shields join in the combat, / and try the shaft so long. +Wherein did join them many / of the merry-making throng. + +309 + +To all who joined the feasting / the host in plenty bade +Supply the choicest viands: / so guarded well he had +'Gainst whate'er reproaches / could rise from spite or spleen. +Unto his guests right friendly / to go the monarch now was seen. + +310 + +He spake: "Ye thanes high-hearted, / ere now ye part from me, +Accept of these my presents; / for I would willingly +Repay your noble service. / Despise ye not, I pray, +What now I will share with you: / 'tis offered in right grateful way." + +311 + +Straightway they of Denmark / thus to the king replied: +"Ere now upon our journey / home again we ride, +We long for lasting friendship. / Thereof we knights have need, +For many a well-loved kinsman / at hands of thy good thanes lies dead." + +312 + +Luedegast was recovered / from all his wounds so sore, +And eke the lord of Saxons / from fight was whole once more. +Some amongst their warriors / left they dead behind. +Then went forth King Gunther / where he Siegfried might find. + +313 + +Unto the thane then spake he: / "Thy counsel give, I pray. +The foes whom we hold captive / fain would leave straightway, +And long for lasting friendship / with all my men and me. +Now tell me, good Sir Siegfried, / what here seemeth good to thee. + +314 + +"What the lords bid as ransom, / shall now to thee be told +Whate'er five hundred horses / might bear of ruddy gold, +They'd give to me right gladly, / would I but let them free." +Then spake the noble Siegfried: / "That were to do right foolishly. + +315 + +"Thou shalt let them freely / journey hence again; +And that they both hereafter / shall evermore refrain +From leading hostile army / against thee and thy land, +Therefor in pledge of friendship / let each now give to thee the hand." + +316 + +"Thy rede I'll gladly follow." / Straightway forth they went. +To those who offered ransom / the answer then was sent, +Their gold no one desired / which they would give before. +The warriors battle-weary / dear friends did yearn to see once more. + +317 + +Full many a shield all laden / with treasure forth they bore: +He dealt it round unmeasured / to friends in goodly store; +Each one had marks five hundred / and some had more, I ween. +Therein King Gunther followed / the rede of Gernot, knight full keen. + +318 + +Then was a great leave-taking, / as they departed thence. +The warriors all 'fore Kriemhild / appeared in reverence, +And eke there where her mother / Queen Ute sat near by. +Gallant thanes were never / dismissed as these so graciously. + +319 + +Bare were the lodging-places, / when away the strangers rode. +Yet in right lordly manner / there at home abode +The king with friends around him, / full noble men who were. +And them now saw they daily / at court before Kriemhild appear. + +320 + +Eke would the gallant hero / Siegfried thence depart, +The thing to gain despairing / whereon was set his heart. +The king was told the tidings / how that he would away. +Giselher his brother / did win the knight with them to stay. + +321 + +"Whither, O noble Siegfried, / wilt thou now from us ride? +Do as I earnest pray thee, / and with these thanes abide, +As guest here with King Gunther, / and live right merrily. +Here dwell fair ladies many: / them will he gladly let thee see." + +322 + +Then spake the doughty Siegfried: / "Our steeds leave yet at rest, +The while from this my purpose / to part will I desist. +Our shields once more take from us. / Though gladly home I would, +Naught 'gainst the fond entreaties / of Giselher avail me could." + +323 + +So stayed the knight full gallant / for sake of friendship there. +In sooth in ne'er another / country anywhere +Had he so gladly lingered: / iwis it was that he, +Now whensoe'er he wished it, / Kriemhild the maiden fair could see. + +324 + +'Twas her surpassing beauty / that made the knight to stay. +With many a merry pastime / they whiled the time away; +But love for her oppressed him, / oft-times grievously. +Whereby anon the hero / a mournful death was doomed to die. + + + + +SIXTH ADVENTURE + +How Gunther fared to Isenland to Brunhild + +325 + +Tidings unknown to any / from over Rhine now come, +How winsome maids a many / far yonder had their home. +Whereof the royal Gunther / bethought him one to win, +And o'er the thought the monarch / of full joyous mood was seen. + +326 + +There was a queenly maiden / seated over sea, +Like her nowhere another / was ever known to be. +She was in beauty matchless, / full mickle was her might; +Her love the prize of contest, / she hurled the shaft with valiant + knight. + +327 + +The stone she threw far distant, / wide sprang thereafter too. +Who turned to her his fancy / with intent to woo, +Three times perforce must vanquish / the lady of high degree; +Failed he in but one trial, / forfeited his head had he. + +328 + +This same the lusty princess / times untold had done. +When to a warrior gallant / beside the Rhine 'twas known, +He thought to take unto him / the noble maid for wife: +Thereby must heroes many / since that moment lose their life. + +329 + +Then spake of Rhine the master: / "I'll down unto the sea +Unto Brunhild journey, / fare as 'twill with me. +For her unmeasured beauty / I'll gladly risk my life, +Ready eke to lose it, / if she may not be my wife." + +330 + +"I counsel thee against it," / spake then Siegfried. +"So terrible in contest / the queen is indeed, +Who for her love is suitor / his zeal must dearly pay. +So shalt thou from the journey / truly be content to stay." + +331 + +"So will I give thee counsel," / outspake Hagen there, +"That thou beg of Siegfried / with thee to bear +The perils that await thee: / that is now my rede, +To him is known so fully / what with Brunhild will be thy need." + +332 + +He spake: "And wilt thou help me, / noble Siegfried, +To win the lovely maiden? / Do what now I plead; +And if in all her beauty / she be my wedded wife, +To meet thy fullest wishes / honor will I pledge and life." + +333 + +Thereto answered Siegfried, / the royal Siegmund's son: +"Giv'st thou me thy sister, / so shall thy will be done, +--Kriemhild the noble princess, / in beauty all before. +For toils that I encounter / none other meed I ask thee more." + +334 + +"That pledge I," spake then Gunther, / "Siegfried, in thy hand. +And comes the lovely Brunhild / thither to this land, +Thereunto thee my sister / for wife I'll truly give, +That with the lovely maiden / thou may'st ever joyful live." + +335 + +Oaths the knight full noble / upon the compact swore, +Whereby to them came troubles / and dangers all the more, +Ere they the royal lady / brought unto the Rhine. +Still should the warriors valiant / in sorest need and sorrow pine. + +336 + +With him carried Siegfried / that same mantle then, +The which with mickle trouble / had won the hero keen +From a dwarf in struggle, / Alberich by name. +They dressed them for the journey, / the valiant thanes of lofty fame. + +337 + +And when the doughty Siegfried / the sightless mantle wore, +Had he within it / of strength as good a store +As other men a dozen / in himself alone. +The full stately princess / anon by cunning art he won. + +338 + +Eke had that same mantle / such wondrous properties +That any man whatever / might work whate'er he please +When once he had it on him, / yet none could see or tell. +'Twas so that he won Brunhild; / whereby him evil since befell. + +339 + +"Ere we begin our journey, / Siegfried, tell to me, +That we with fullest honor / come unto the sea, +Shall we lead warriors with us / down to Brunhild's land? +Thanes a thirty thousand / straightway shall be called to hand." + +340 + +"Men bring we ne'er so many," / answered Siegfried then. +"So terrible in custom / ever is the queen, +That all would death encounter / from her angry mood. +I'll give thee better counsel, / thane in valor keen and good. + +341 + +"Like as knights-errant journey / down the Rhine shall we. +Those now will I name thee / who with us shall be; +But four in all the company / seaward shall we fare: +Thus shall we woo the lady, / what fortune later be our share. + +342 + +"Myself one of the company, / a second thou shalt be, +Hagen be the third one / --so fare we happily; +The fourth let it be Dankwart, / warrior full keen. +Never thousand others / dare in fight withstand us then." + +343 + +"The tale I would know gladly," / the king then further said, +"Ere we have parted thither / --of that were I full glad-- +What should we of apparel, / that would befit us well, +Wear in Brunhild's presence: / that shalt thou now to Gunther tell." + +344 + +"Weeds the very finest / that ever might be found +They wear in every season / in Brunhild's land: +So shall we rich apparel / before the lady wear, +That we have not dishonor / where men the tale hereafter hear." + +345 + +Then spake he to the other: / "Myself will go unto +My own loving mother, / if I from her may sue +That her fair tendant maidens / help that we be arrayed +As we may go in honor / before the high majestic maid." + +346 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen / with noble courtliness: +"Why wilt thou of thy mother / beg such services? +Only let thy sister / hear our mind and mood: +So shall for this our journey / her good service be bestowed." + +347 + +Then sent he to his sister / that he her would see, +And with him also Siegfried. / Ere that such might be, +Herself had there the fair one / in rich apparel clad. +Sooth to tell, the visit / but little did displease the maid. + +348 + +Then also were her women / decked as for them was meet. +The princes both were coming: / she rose from off her seat, +As doth a high-born lady / when that she did perceive, +And went the guest full noble / and eke her brother to receive. + +349 + +"Welcome be my brother / and his companion too. +I'd know the story gladly," / spake the maiden so, +"What ye now are seeking / that ye are come to me: +I pray you straightway tell me / how 't with you valiants twain may be." + +350 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Lady, thou shall hear: +Spite of lofty spirits / have we yet a care. +To woo a maid we travel / afar to lands unknown; +We should against the journey / have rich apparel for our own." + +351 + +"Seat thee now, dear brother," / spake the princess fair; +"Let me hear the story, / who the ladies are +That ye will seek as suitors / in stranger princes' land." +Both good knights the lady / took in greeting by the hand. + +352 + +With the twain then went she / where she herself had sat, +To couches rich and costly, / in sooth believe ye that, +Wrought in design full cunning / of gold embroidery. +And with these fair ladies / did pass the time right pleasantly. + +353 + +Many tender glances / and looks full many a one +Fondly knight and lady / each other cast upon. +Within his heart he bore her, / she was as his own life. +Anon the fairest Kriemhild / was the doughty Siegfried's wife. + +354 + +Then spake the mighty monarch: / "Full loving sister mine, +This may we ne'er accomplish / without help of thine. +Unto Brunhild's country / as suitor now we fare: +'Tis fitting that 'fore ladies / we do rich apparel wear." + +355 + +Then spake the royal maiden: / "Brother dear to me, +In whatsoever manner / my help may given be, +Of that I well assure you, / ready thereto am I. +To Kriemhild 'twere a sorrow / if any should the same deny. + +356 + +"Of me, O noble brother, / thou shalt not ask in vain: +Command in courteous manner / and I will serve thee fain. +Whatever be thy pleasure, / for that I'll lend my aid +And willingly I'll do it," / spake the fair and winsome maid. + +357 + +"It is our wish, dear sister, / apparel good to wear; +That shall now directing / the royal hand prepare; +And let thy maids see to it / that all is done aright, +For we from this same journey / turn not aside for word of wight." + +358 + +Spake thereupon the maiden: / "Now mark ye what I say: +Myself have silks in plenty; / now send us rich supply +Of stones borne on bucklers, / so vesture we'll prepare." +To do it royal Gunther / and Siegfried both right ready were. + +359 + +"And who are your companions," / further questioned she, +"Who with you apparelled / now for court shall be?" +"I it is and Siegfried, / and of my men are two, +Dankwart and Hagen, / who with us to court shall go. + +360 + +"Now rightly what we tell thee, / mark, O sister dear: +'Tis that we four companions / for four days may wear +Thrice daily change of raiment / so wrought with skilful hand +That we without dishonor / may take our leave of Brunhild's land." + +361 + +After fair leave-taking / the knights departed so. +Then of her attendants / thirty maids to go +Forth from her apartments / Kriemhild the princess bade, +Of those that greatest cunning / in such skilful working had. + +362 + +The silks that were of Araby / white as the snow in sheen, +And from the land of Zazamank / like unto grass so green, +With stones of price they broidered; / that made apparel rare. +Herself she cut them, Kriemhild / the royal maiden debonair. + +363 + +Fur linings fashioned fairly / from dwellers in the sea +Beheld by people rarely, / the best that e'er might be, +With silken stuffs they covered / for the knights to wear. +Now shall ye of the shining / weeds full many a wonder hear. + +364 + +From land of far Morocco / and eke from Libya +Of silks the very finest / that ever mortal saw +With any monarch's kindred, / they had a goodly store. +Well showed the Lady Kriemhild / that unto them good will she bore. + +365 + +Since they unto the journey / had wished that so it be, +Skins of costly ermine / used they lavishly, +Whereon were silken pieces / black as coal inlaid. +To-day were any nobles / in robes so fashioned well arrayed. + +366 + +From the gold of Araby / many a stone there shone. +The women long were busy / before the work was done; +But all the robes were finished / ere seven weeks did pass, +When also trusty armor / for the warriors ready was. + +367 + +When they at length were ready / adown the Rhine to fare, +A ship lay waiting for them / strong built with mickle care, +Which should bear them safely / far down unto the sea. +The maidens rich in beauty / plied their work laboriously. + +368 + +Then 'twas told the warriors / for them was ready there +The finely wrought apparel / that they were to wear; +Just as they had wished it, / so it had been made; +After that the heroes / there by the Rhine no longer stayed. + +369 + +To the knights departing / went soon a messenger: +Would they come in person / to view their new attire, +If it had been fitted / short and long aright. +'Twas found of proper measure, / and thanked those ladies fair each + knight. + +370 + +And all who there beheld them / they must needs confess +That in the world they never / had gazed on fairer dress: +At court to wear th' apparel / did therefore please them well. +Of warriors better furnished / never could a mortal tell. + +371 + +Thanks oft-times repeated / were there not forgot. +Leave of parting from them / the noble knights then sought: +Like thanes of noble bearing / they went in courteous wise. +Then dim and wet with weeping / grew thereat two shining eyes. + +372 + +She spake: "O dearest brother, / still here thou mightest stay, +And woo another woman-- / that were the better way-- +Where so sore endangered / stood not thus thy life. +Here nearer canst thou find thee / equally a high-born wife." + +373 + +I ween their hearts did tell them / what later came to pass. +They wept there all together, / whatever spoken was. +The gold upon their bosoms / was sullied 'neath the tears +That from their eyes in plenty / fell adown amid their fears. + +374 + +She spake: "O noble Siegfried, / to thee commended be +Upon thy truth and goodness / the brother dear to me, +That he come unscathed / home from Brunhild's land." +That plighted the full valiant / knight in Lady Kriemhild's hand. + +375 + +The mighty thane gave answer: / "If I my life retain, +Then shall thy cares, good Lady, / all have been in vain. +All safe I'll bring him hither / again unto the Rhine, +Be that to thee full sicker." / To him did the fair maid incline. + +376 + +Their shields of golden color / were borne unto the strand, +And all their trusty armor / was ready brought to hand. +They bade their horses bring them: / they would at last depart. +--Thereat did fairest women / weep with sad foreboding heart. + +377 + +Down from lofty casement / looked many a winsome maid, +As ship and sail together / by stirring breeze were swayed. +Upon the Rhine they found them, / the warriors full of pride. +Then outspake King Gunther: / "Who now is here the ship to guide?" + +378 + +"That will I," spake Siegfried; / "I can upon the flood +Lead you on in safety, / that know ye, heroes good; +For all the water highways / are known right well to me." +With joy they then departed / from the land of Burgundy. + +379 + +A mighty pole then grasped he, / Siegfried the doughty man, +And the ship from shore / forth to shove began. +Gunther the fearless also / himself took oar in hand. +The knights thus brave and worthy / took departure from the land. + +380 + +They carried rich provisions, / thereto the best of wine +That might in any quarter / be found about the Rhine. +Their chargers stood in comfort / and rested by the way: +The ship it moved so lightly / that naught of injury had they. + +381 + +Stretched before the breezes / were the great sail-ropes tight, +And twenty miles they journeyed / ere did come the night, +By fair breezes favored / down toward the sea. +Their toil repaid thereafter / the dauntless knights full grievously. + +382 + +Upon the twelfth morning, / as we in story hear, +Had they by the breezes / thence been carried far, +Unto Castle Isenstein / and Brunhild's country: +That to Siegfried only / was known of all the company. + +383 + +As soon as saw King Gunther / so many towers rise +And eke the boundless marches / stretch before his eyes, +He spake: "Tell me, friend Siegfried, / is it known to thee +Whose they are, the castles / and the majestic broad country?" + +384 + +Thereto gave answer Siegfried: / "That well to me is known: +Brunhild for their mistress / do land and people own +And Isenstein's firm towers, / as ye have heard me say. +Ladies fair a many / shall ye here behold to-day. + +385 + +"And I will give you counsel: / be it well understood +That all your words must tally / --so methinks 'twere good. +If ere to-day is over / our presence she command, +Must we leave pride behind us, / as before Brunhild we stand. + +386 + +"When we the lovely lady / 'mid her retainers see, +Then shall ye, good companions, / in all your speech agree +That Gunther is my master / and I his serving-man: +'Tis thus that all he hopeth / shall we in the end attain." + +387 + +To do as he had bidden / consented straight each one, +And spite of proudest spirit / they left it not undone. +All that he wished they promised, / and good it proved to be +When anon King Gunther / the fair Brunhild came to see. + +388 + +"Not all to meet thy wishes / do I such service swear, +But most 'tis for thy sister, / Kriemhild the maiden fair; +Just as my soul unto me / she is my very life, +And fain would I deserve it / that she in truth become my wife." + + + + +SEVENTH ADVENTURE + +How Gunther won Brunhild + +389 + +The while they thus did parley / their ship did forward glide +So near unto the castle / that soon the king espied +Aloft within the casements / many a maiden fair to see. +That all to him were strangers / thought King Gunther mournfully. + +390 + +He asked then of Siegfried, / who bare him company: +"Know'st thou aught of the maidens, / who the same may be, +Gazing yonder downward / upon us on the tide? +Howe'er is named their master, / minded are they high in pride." + +391 + +Then spake the valiant Siegfried: / "Now thither shalt thou spy +Unseen among the ladies, / then not to me deny +Which, wert thou free in choosing, / thou'dst take to be thy queen." +"That will I do," then answered / Gunther the valiant knight and keen. + +392 + +"I see there one among them / by yonder casement stand, +Clad in snow-white raiment: / 'tis she my eyes demand, +So buxom she in stature, / so fair she is to see. +An I were free in choosing, / she it is my wife must be." + +393 + +"Full well now in choosing / thine eyes have guided thee: +It is the stately Brunhild / the maiden fair to see, +That doth now unto her / thy heart and soul compel." +All the maiden's bearing / pleased the royal Gunther well. + +394 + +But soon the queen commanded / from casement all to go +Of those her beauteous maidens: / they should not stand there so +To be gazed at by the strangers. / They must obey her word. +What were the ladies doing, / of that moreover have we heard. + +395 + +Unto the noble strangers / their beauty they would show, +A thing which lovely women / are ever wont to do. +Unto the narrow casements / came they crowding on, +When they spied the strangers: / that they might also see, 'twas done. + +396 + +But four the strangers numbered, / who came unto that land. +Siegfried the doughty / the king's steed led in hand: +They saw it from the casements, / many a lovely maid, +And saw the willing service / unto royal Gunther paid. + +397 + +Then held he by the bridle / for him his gallant steed, +A good and fair-formed charger, / strong and of noble breed, +Until the royal Gunther / into the saddle sprung. +Thus did serve him Siegfried: / a service all forgot ere long. + +398 + +Then his own steed he also / led forth upon the shore. +Such menial service had he / full seldom done before, +That he should hold the stirrup / for monarch whomsoe'er. +Down gazing from the casements / beheld it ladies high and fair. + +399 + +At every point according, / the heroes well bedight +--Their dress and eke their chargers / of color snowy white-- +Were like unto each other, / and well-wrought shield each one +Of the good knights bore with him, / that brightly glimmered in the sun. + +400 + +Jewelled well was saddle / and narrow martingale +As they rode so stately / in front of Brunhild's Hall, +And thereon bells were hanging / of red gold shining bright. +So came they to that country, / as fitting was for men of might, + +401 + +With spears all newly polished, / with swords, well-made that were +And by the stately heroes / hung down unto the spur: +Such bore the valiant riders / of broad and cutting blade. +The noble show did witness / Brunhild the full stately maid. + +402 + +With him came then Dankwart / and Hagen, doughty thane. +The story further telleth / how that the heroes twain +Of color black as raven / rich attire wore, +And each a broad and mighty / shield of rich adornment bore. + +403 + +Rich stones from India's country / every eye could see, +Impending on their tunics, / sparkle full brilliantly. +Their vessel by the river / they left without a guard, +As thus the valiant heroes / rode undaunted castleward. + +404 + +Six and fourscore towers / without they saw rise tall, +Three spacious palaces / and moulded well a hall +All wrought of precious marble / green as blade of grass, +Wherein the royal Brunhild / with company of fair ladies was. + +405 + +The castle doors unbolted / were flung open wide +As out toward them / the men of Brunhild hied +And received the strangers / into their Lady's land. +Their steeds they bade take over, / and also shield from out the hand. + +406 + +Then spake a man-in-waiting: / "Give o'er the sword each thane, +And eke the shining armor."-- / "Good friend, thou ask'st in vain," +Spake of Tronje Hagen; / "the same we'd rather wear." +Then gan straightway Siegfried / the country's custom to declare. + +407 + +"'Tis wont within this castle, / --of that be now aware-- +That never any stranger / weapons here shall bear. +Now let them hence be carried: / well dost thou as I say." +In this did full unwilling / Hagen, Gunther's man, obey. + +408 + +They bade the strangers welcome / with drink and fitting rest. +Soon might you see on all sides / full many knights the best +In princely weeds apparelled / to their reception go: +Yet did they mickle gazing / who would the keen new-comers know. + +409 + +Then unto Lady Brunhild / the tidings strange were brought +How that unknown warriors / now her land had sought, +In stately apparel / come sailing o'er the sea. +The maiden fair and stately / gave question how the same might be. + +410 + +"Now shall ye straight inform me," / spake she presently, +"Who so unfamiliar / these warrior knights may be, +That within my castle / thus so lordly stand, +And for whose sake the heroes / have hither journeyed to my land." + +411 + +Then spake to her a servant: / "Lady, I well can say +Of them I've ne'er seen any / before this present day: +Be it not that one among them / is like unto Siegfried. +Him give a goodly welcome: / so is to thee my loyal rede. + +412 + +"The next of the companions / he is a worthy knight: +If that were in his power / he well were king of might +O'er wide domains of princes, / the which might reach his hand. +Now see him by the others / so right majestically stand. + +413 + +"The third of the companions, / that he's a man of spleen, +--Withal of fair-formed body, / know thou, stately Queen,-- +Do tell his rapid glances / that dart so free from him. +He is in all his thinking / a man, I ween, of mood full grim. + +414 + +"The youngest one among them / he is a worthy knight: +As modest as a maiden, / I see the thane of might +Goodly in his bearing / standing so fair to see, +We all might fear if any / affront to him should offered be. + +415 + +"How blithe soe'er his manner, / how fair soe'er is he, +Well could he cause of sorrow / to stately woman be, +If he gan show his anger. / In him may well be seen +He is in knightly virtues / a thane of valor bold and keen." + +416 + +Then spake the queen in answer: / "Bring now my robes to hand. +And is the mighty Siegfried / come unto this land, +For love of me brought thither, / he pays it with his life. +I fear him not so sorely / that I e'er become his wife." + +417 + +So was fair Brunhild / straightway well arrayed. +Then went with her thither / full many a beauteous maid, +A hundred good or over, / bedight right merrily. +The full beauteous maidens / would those stranger warriors see. + +418 + +And with them went the warriors / there of Isenland, +The knights attending Brunhild, / who bore sword in hand, +Five hundred men or over. / Scarce heart the strangers kept +As those knights brave and seemly / down from out the saddle leapt. + +419 + +When the royal lady / Siegfried espied, +Now mote ye willing listen / what there the maiden said. +"Welcome be thou, Siegfried, / hither unto this land. +What meaneth this thy journey, / gladly might I understand." + +420 + +"Full mickle do I thank thee, / my Lady, high Brunhild, +That thou art pleased to greet me, / noble Princess mild, +Before this knight so noble, / who stands before me here: +For he is my master, / whom first to honor fitting were. + +421 + +"Born is he of Rhineland: / what need I say more? +For thee 'tis highest favor / that we do hither fare. +Thee will he gladly marry, / an bring that whatsoe'er. +Betimes shalt thou bethink thee: / my master will thee never spare. + +422 + +"For his name is Gunther / and he a mighty king. +If he thy love hath won him, / more wants he not a thing. +In sooth the king so noble / hath bade me hither fare: +And gladly had I left it, / might I to thwart his wishes dare." + +423 + +She spake: "Is he thy master / and thou his vassal art, +Some games to him I offer, / and dare he there take part, +And comes he forth the victor, / so am I then his wife: +And be it I that conquer, / then shall ye forfeit each his life." + +424 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Lady, let us see +Thy games so fraught with peril. / Before should yield to thee +Gunther my master, / that well were something rare. +He trows he yet is able / to win a maid so passing fair." + +425 + +"Then shall ye try stone-putting / and follow up the cast, +And the spear hurl with me. / Do ye naught here in haste. +For well may ye pay forfeit / with honor eke and life: +Bethink ye thus full calmly," / spake she whom Gunther would for wife. + +426 + +Siegfried the valiant / stepped unto the king, +And bade him speak out freely / his thoughts upon this thing +Unto the queen so wayward, / he might have fearless heart. +"For to well protect thee / from her do I know an art." + +427 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Now offer, stately Queen, +What play soe'er thou mayest. / And harder had it been, +Yet would I all have ventured / for all thy beauty's sake. +My head I'll willing forfeit / or thyself my wife I'll make." + +428 + +When therefore the Queen Brunhild / heard how the matter stood +The play she begged to hasten, / as indeed she should. +She bade her servants fetch her / therefor apparel trim, +A mail-coat ruddy golden / and shield well wrought from boss to rim. + +429 + +A battle-tunic silken / the maid upon her drew, +That in ne'er a contest / weapon pierced through, +Of skins from land of Libya, / and structure rare and fine; +And brilliant bands embroidered / might you see upon it shine. + +430 + +Meanwhile were the strangers / jibed with many a threat; +Dankwart and Hagen, / their hearts began to beat. +How here the king should prosper / were they of doubtful mood, +Thinking, "This our journey / shall bring us wanderers naught of good." + +431 + +The while did also Siegfried / the thane beyond compare, +Before 'twas marked by any, / unto the ship repair, +Where he found his sightless mantle[2] / that did hidden lie, +And slipped into 't full deftly: / so was he veiled from every eye. + +[2] See strophe 97, note. + +432 + +Thither back he hied him / and found great company +About the queen who ordered / what the high play should be. +There went he all in secret; / so cunningly 'twas done, +Of all around were standing / perceived him never any one. + +433 + +The ring it was appointed / wherein the play should be +'Fore many a keen warrior / who the same should see. +More than seven hundred / were seen their weapons bear, +That whoso were the victor / they might sure the same declare. + +434 + +Thither was come Brunhild; / all armed she did stand +Like as she were to combat / for many a royal land; +Upon her silken tunic / were gold bars many a one, +And glowing 'mid the armor / her flesh of winsome color shone. + +435 + +Then followed her attendants / and with them thither brought +At once a shield full stately, / of pure red gold 'twas wrought, +With steel-hard bands for facings, / full mickle 'twas and broad, +Wherewith in the contest / would guard herself the lovely maid. + +436 + +To hold the shield securely / a well-wrought band there was, +Whereon lay precious jewels / green as blade of grass. +Full many a ray their lustre / shot round against the gold. +He were a man full valiant / whom this high dame should worthy hold. + +437 + +The shield was 'neath the boss-point, / as to us is said, +Good three spans in thickness, / which should bear the maid. +Of steel 'twas wrought so richly / and had of gold such share, +That chamberlain and fellows / three the same scarce could bear. + +438 + +When the doughty Hagen / the shield saw thither brought, +Spake the knight of Tronje, / and savage was his thought: +"Where art thou now, King Gunther? / Shall we thus lose our life! +Whom here thou seekst for lover, / she is the very Devil's wife." + +439 + +List more of her apparel; / she had a goodly store. +Of silk of Azagang / a tunic made she wore, +All bedight full richly; / amid its color shone +Forth from the queen it covered, / full many a sparkling precious stone. + +440 + +Then brought they for the lady, / large and heavy there, +As she was wont to hurl it, / a sharply-pointed spear; +Strong and massive was it, / huge and broad as well, +And at both its edges / it cut with devastation fell. + +441 + +To know the spear was heavy / list ye wonders more: +Three spears of common measure / 'twould make, and something o'er. +Of Brunhild's attendants / three scarce the same could bear. +The heart of noble Gunther / thereat began to fill with fear. + +442 + +Within his soul he thought him: / "What pickle am I in? +Of hell the very Devil, / how might he save his skin? +Might I at home in Burgundy / safe and living be, +Should she for many a season / from proffered love of mine be free." + +443 + +Then spake Hagen's brother / the valiant Dankwart: +"In truth this royal journey / doth sorely grieve my heart. +We passed for good knights one time: / what caitiff's death, if we +Here in far-off country / a woman's game are doomed to be! + +444 + +"It rueth me full sorely / that I came to this land. +And had my brother Hagen / his good sword in hand, +And had I mine to help him, / a bit more gently then, +A little tame of spirit, / might show themselves all Brunhild's men. + +445 + +"And know it of a certain / to lord it thus they'd cease; +E'en though oaths a thousand / I'd sworn to keep the peace, +Before that I'd see perish / my dear lord shamefully, +Amid the souls departed / this fair maid herself should be." + +446 + +"Well should we unhampered / quit at last this land," +Spake his brother Hagen, / "did we in armor stand, +Such as we need for battle, / and bore we broadswords good: +'Twould be a little softened, / this doughty lady's haughty mood." + +447 + +Well heard the noble maiden / what the warriors spoke. +Back athwart her shoulder / she sent a smiling look: +"Now thinks he him so valiant, / so let them armed stand; +Their full keen-edged broadswords / give the warriors each in hand." + +448 + +When they their swords received, / as the maiden said, +The full valiant Dankwart / with joy his face grew red. +"Now play they what them pleaseth," / cried the warrior brave; +"Gunther is yet a freeman, / since now in hand good swords we have." + +449 + +The royal Brunhild's prowess / with terror was it shown. +Into the ring they bore her / in sooth a ponderous stone, +Great and all unwieldy, / huge it was and round: +And scarce good knights a dozen / together raised it from the ground. + +450 + +To put this was her custom / after trial with the spear. +Thereat the men of Burgundy / began to quake with fear. +"Alack! Alack!" quoth Hagen, / "what seeks the king for bride? +Beneath in hell 'twere better / the Devil had her by his side!" + +451 + +On her white arms the flowing / sleeves she backward flung, +Then with grasp of power / the shield in hand she swung, +And spear poised high above her. / So did the contest start. +Gunther and Siegfried / saw Brunhild's ire with falling heart. + +452 + +And were it not that Siegfried / a ready help did bring, +Surely then had perished / beneath her hand the king. +There went he unperceived / and the king's hand did touch. +Gunther at his cunning / artifice was troubled much. + +453 + +"What is that hath touched me?" / thought the monarch keen. +Then gazed he all around him: / none was there to be seen. +A voice spake: "Siegfried is it, / a friend that holds thee dear. +Before this royal maiden / shall thy heart be free from fear. + +454 + +"Thy shield in hand now give me / and leave it me to bear, +And do thou rightly mark thee / what thou now shalt hear. +Now make thyself the motions, / --the power leave to me." +When he did know him rightly, / the monarch's heart was filled with glee. + +455 + +"Now secret keep my cunning, / let none e'er know the same: +Then shall the royal maiden / here find but little game +Of glory to win from thee, / as most to her is dear. +Behold now how the lady / stands before thee void of fear." + +456 + +The spear the stately maiden / with might and main did wield, +And huge and broad she hurled it / upon the new-made shield, +That on his arm did carry / the son of Siegelind; +From the steel the sparks flew hissing / as if were blowing fierce the + wind. + +457 + +The mighty spear sharp-pointed / full through the shield did crash, +That ye from off the mail-rings / might see the lightning flash. +Beneath its force they stumbled, / did both those men of might; +But for the sightless mantle / they both were killed there outright. + +458 + +From mouth of the full doughty / Siegfried burst the blood. +Full soon he yet recovered; / then seized the warrior good +The spear that from her strong arm / thus his shield had rent, +And back with force as came it / the hand of doughty Siegfried sent. + +459 + +He thought: "To pierce the maiden / were but small glory earned," +And so the spear's sharp edges / backward pointing turned; +Against her mail-clad body / he made the shaft to bound, +And with such might he sent it / full loud her armor did resound. + +460 + +The sparks as if in stormwind / from mail-rings flew around. +So mightily did hurl it / the son of Siegmund +That she with all her power / could not the shaft withstand. +In sooth it ne'er was speeded / so swiftly by King Gunther's hand. + +461 + +But to her feet full sudden / had sprung Brunhild fair. +"A shot, O noble Gunther, / befitting hero rare." +She weened himself had done it, / and all unaided he, +Nor wot she one far mightier / was thither come so secretly. + +462 + +Then did she go full sudden, / wrathful was her mood, +A stone full high she heaved / the noble maiden good, +And the same far from her / with might and main she swung: +Her armor's mail-rings jingled / as she herself thereafter sprung. + +463 + +The stone, when it had fallen, / lay fathoms twelve from there, +And yet did spring beyond it / herself the maiden fair. +Then where the stone was lying / thither Siegfried went: +Gunther feigned to move it, / but by another arm 'twas sent. + +464 + +A valiant man was Siegfried / full powerful and tall. +The stone then cast he farther, / and farther sprang withal. +From those his arts so cunning / had he of strength such store +That as he leaped he likewise / the weight of royal Gunther bore. + +465 + +And when the leap was ended / and fallen was the stone, +Then saw they ne'er another / but Gunther alone. +Brunhild the fair maiden, / red grew she in wrath: +Siegfried yet had warded / from royal Gunther surest death. + +466 + +Unto her attendants / she spake in loud command, +When she saw 'cross the circle / the king unvanquished stand. +"Come hither quick, my kinsmen, / and ye that wait on me; +Henceforth unto Gunther / shall all be pledged faithfully." + +467 + +Then laid the knights full valiant / their swords from out the hand; +At feet 'fore mighty Gunther / from Burgundian land +Offered himself in service / full many a valiant knight. +They weened that he had conquered / in trial by his proper might. + +468 + +He gave her loving greeting, / right courteous was he. +Then by the hand she took him, / the maiden praiseworthy, +In pledge that all around him / was his to have and hold. +Whereat rejoiced Hagen / the warrior valorous and bold. + +469 + +Into the spacious palace / with her thence to go +Bade she the noble monarch. / When they had done so, +Then still greater honors / unto the knight were shown. +Dankwart and Hagen, / right willingly they saw it done. + +470 + +Siegfried the valiant, / by no means was he slow, +His sightless mantle did he / away in safety stow. +Then went he again thither / where many a lady sat. +He spake unto the monarch-- / full cunningly was done all that: + +471 + +"Why bidest thus, my master? / Wilt not the play begin, +To which so oft hath challenged / thee the noble queen? +Let us soon have example / what may the trial be." +As knew he naught about it, / did the knight thus cunningly. + +472 + +Then spake the queen unto him: / "How hath this ever been, +That of the play, Sir Siegfried, / nothing thou hast seen, +Wherein hath been the victor / Gunther with mighty hand?" +Thereto gave answer Hagen / a grim knight of Burgundian land. + +473 + +Spake he: "There dost thou, Lady, / think ill without a cause: +By the ship down yonder / the noble Siegfried was, +The while the lord of Rhineland / in play did vanquish thee: +Thus knows he nothing of it," / spake Gunther's warrior courteously. + +474 + +"A joy to me these tidings," / the doughty Siegfried spoke, +"That so thy haughty spirit / is brought beneath the yoke, +And that yet one there liveth / master to be of thine. +Now shalt thou, noble maiden, / us follow thither to the Rhine." + +475 + +Then spake the maiden shapely: / "It may not yet be so. +All my men and kindred / first the same must know. +In sooth not all so lightly / can I quit my home. +First must I bid my trusty / warriors that they hither come." + +476 + +Then bade she messengers / quickly forth to ride, +And summoned in her kindred / and men from every side. +Without delay she prayed them / to come to Isenstein, +And bade them all be given / fit apparel rare and fine. + +477 + +Then might ye see daily / 'twixt morn and eventide +Unto Brunhild's castle / many a knight to ride. +"God wot, God wot," quoth Hagen, / "we do an evil thing, +To tarry here while Brunhild / doth thus her men together bring. + +478 + +"If now into this country / their good men they've brought +--What thing the queen intendeth / thereof know we naught: +Belike her wrath ariseth, / and we are men forlorn-- +Then to be our ruin / were the noble maiden born." + +479 + +Then spake the doughty Siegfried: / "That matter leave to me. +Whereof thou now art fearful, / I'll never let it be. +Ready help I'll bring thee / hither unto this land, +Knights of whom thou wotst not / till now I'll bring, a chosen band. + +480 + +"Of me shalt thou ask not: / from hence will I fare. +May God of thy good honor / meanwhile have a care. +I come again right quickly / with a thousand men for thee, +The very best of warriors / hitherto are known to me." + +481 + +"Then tarry not unduly," / thus the monarch said. +"Glad we are full fairly / of this thy timely aid." +He spake: "Till I come to thee / full short shall be my stay. +That thou thyself hast sent me / shalt thou unto Brunhild say." + + + + +EIGHTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried fared to his Knights, the Nibelungen + +482 + +Thence went then Siegfried / out through the castle door +In his sightless mantle / to a boat upon the shore. +As Siegmund's son doth board it / him no mortal sees; +And quickly off he steers it / as were it wafted by the breeze. + +483 + +No one saw the boatman, / yet rapid was the flight +Of the boat forth speeding / driven by Siegfried's might. +They weened that did speed it / a swiftly blowing wind: +No, 'twas Siegfried sped it, / the son of fairest Siegelind. + +484 + +In that one day-time / and the following night +Came he to a country / by dint of mickle might, +Long miles a hundred distant, / and something more than this: +The Nibelungen were its people / where the mighty hoard was his. + +485 + +Alone did fare the hero / unto an island vast +Whereon the boat full quickly / the gallant knight made fast. +Of a castle then bethought him / high upon a hill, +And there a lodging sought him, / as wayworn men are wont to still. + +486 + +Then came he to the portals / that locked before him stood. +They guarded well their honor / as people ever should. +At the door he gan a-knocking, / for all unknown was he. +But full well 'twas guarded, / and within it he did see + +487 + +A giant who the castle / did guard with watchful eye, +And near him did at all times / his good weapons lie. +Quoth he: "Who now that knocketh / at the door in such strange wise?" +Without the valiant Siegfried / did cunningly his voice disguise. + +488 + +He spake: "A bold knight-errant / am I; unlock the gate. +Else will I from without here / disturbance rare create +For all who'd fain lie quiet / and their rest would take." +Wrathful grew the Porter / as in this wise Siegfried spake. + +489 + +Now did the giant valorous / his good armor don, +And placed on head his helmet; / then the full doughty man +His shield up-snatched quickly / and gate wide open swung. +How sore was he enraged / as himself upon Siegfried he flung! + +490 + +'How dared he thus awaken / brave knights within the hall?' +The blows in rapid showers / from his hand did fall. +Thereat the noble stranger / began himself to shield. +For so a club of iron / the Porter's mighty arm did wield, + +491 + +That splinters flew from buckler, / and Siegfried stood aghast +From fear that this same hour / was doomed to be his last, +So mightily the Porter's / blows about him fell. +To find such faithful warder / did please his master Siegfried well. + +492 + +So fiercely did they struggle / that castle far within +And hall where slept the Nibelungen / echoed back the din. +But Siegfried pressed the Porter / and soon he had him bound. +In all the land of Nibelungen / the story soon was bruited round. + +493 + +When the grim sound of fighting / afar the place had filled, +Alberich did hear it, / a Dwarf full brave and wild. +He donned his armor deftly, / and running thither found +This so noble stranger / where he the doughty Porter bound. + +494 + +Alberich was full wrathy, / thereto a man of power. +Coat of mail and helmet / he on his body wore, +And in his hand a heavy / scourge of gold he swung. +Where was fighting Siegfried, / thither in mickle haste he sprung. + +495 + +Seven knobs thick and heavy / on the club's end were seen, +Wherewith the shield that guarded / the knight that was so keen +He battered with such vigor / that pieces from it brake. +Lest he his life should forfeit / the noble stranger gan to quake. + +496 + +The shield that all was battered / from his hand he flung; +And into sheath, too, thrust he / his sword so good and long. +For his trusty chamberlain / he did not wish to slay, +And in such case he could not / grant his anger fullest sway. + +497 + +With but his hands so mighty / at Alberich he ran. +By the beard then seized he / the gray and aged man, +And in such manner pulled it / that he full loud did roar. +The youthful hero's conduct / Alberich did trouble sore. + +498 + +Loud cried the valiant steward: / "Have mercy now on me. +And might I other's vassal / than one good hero's be, +To whom to be good subject / I an oath did take, +Until my death I'd serve thee." / Thus the man of cunning spake. + +499 + +Alberich then bound he / as the giant before. +The mighty arm of Siegfried / did trouble him full sore. +The Dwarf began to question: / "Thy name, what may it be?" +Quoth he: "My name is Siegfried; / I weened I well were known to thee." + +500 + +"I joy to hear such tidings," / Dwarf Alberich replied. +"Well now have I found thee / in knightly prowess tried, +And with goodly reason / lord o'er lands to be. +I'll do whate'er thou biddest, / wilt thou only give me free." + +501 + +Then spake his master Siegfried: / "Quickly shalt thou go, +And bring me knights hither, / the best we have to show, +A thousand Nibelungen, / to stand before their lord." +Wherefore thus he wished it, / spake he never yet a word. + +502 + +The giant and Alberich / straightway he unbound. +Then ran Alberich quickly / where the knights he found. +The warriors of Nibelung / he wakened full of fear. +Quoth he: "Be up, ye heroes, / before Siegfried shall ye appear." + +503 + +From their couches sprang they / and ready were full soon, +Clothed well in armor / a thousand warriors boon, +And went where they found standing / Siegfried their lord. +Then was a mickle greeting / courteously in act and word. + +504 + +Candles many were lighted, / and sparkling wine he drank. +That they came so quickly, / therefor he all did thank. +Quoth he: "Now shall ye with me / from hence across the flood." +Thereto he found full ready / the heroes valiant and good. + +505 + +Good thirty hundred warriors / soon had hither pressed, +From whom were then a thousand / taken of the best. +For them were brought their helmets / and what they else did need. +For unto Brunhild's country / would he straightway the warriors lead. + +506 + +He spake: "Ye goodly nobles, / that would I have you hear, +In full costly raiment / shall ye at court appear, +For yonder must there see us / full many a fair lady. +Therefore shall your bodies / dight in good apparel be." + +507 + +Upon a morning early / went they on their way. +What host of brave companions / bore Siegfried company! +Good steeds took they with them / and garments rich to wear, +And did in courtly fashion / unto Brunhild's country fare. + +508 + +As gazed from lofty parapet / women fair to see, +Spake the queen unto them: / "Knows any who they be, +Whom I see yonder sailing / upon the sea afar? +Rich sails their ships do carry, / whiter than snow they are." + +509 + +Then spake the king of Rhineland: / "My good men they are, +That on my journey hither / left I lying near. +I've sent to call them to me: / now are they come, O Queen." +With full great amazing / were the stately strangers seen. + +510 + +There saw they Siegfried / out on the ship's prow stand +Clad in costly raiment, / and with him his good band. +Then spake Queen Brunhild: / "Good monarch, let me know, +Shall I go forth to greet them, / or shall I greetings high forego?" + +511 + +He spake: "Thou shalt to meet them / before the palace go, +So that we see them gladly / they may surely know." +Then did the royal lady / fulfil the king's behest. +Yet Siegfried in the greeting / was not honored with the rest. + +512 + +Lodgings were made ready / and their armor ta'en in hand. +Then was such host of strangers / come into that land, +On all sides they jostled / from the great company. +Then would the knights full valiant / homeward fare to Burgundy. + +513 + +Then spake Queen Brunhild: / "In favor would I hold +Who might now apportion / my silver and my gold +To my guests and the monarch's, / for goodly store I have." +Thereto an answer Dankwart, / Giselher's good warrior, gave: + +514 + +"Full noble royal Lady, / give me the keys to hold. +I trow I'll so divide it," / spake the warrior bold, +"If blame there be about it, / that shall be mine alone." +That he was not a niggard, / beyond a doubt he soon had shown. + +515 + +When now Hagen's brother / the treasure did command, +So many a lavish bounty / dealt out the hero's hand, +Whoso mark did covet, / to him was given such store +That all who once were poor men / might joyous live for evermore. + +516 + +In sooth good pounds a hundred / gave he to each and all. +A host in costly raiment / were seen before the hall, +Who in equal splendor / ne'er before were clad. +When the queen did hear it, / verily her heart was sad. + +517 + +Then spake the royal lady: / "Good King, it little needs, +That now thy chamberlain / of all my stately weeds +Leave no whit remaining, / and squander clean my gold. +Would any yet prevent it, / him would I aye in favor hold. + +518 + +"He deals with hand so lavish, / in sooth doth ween the thane +That death I've hither summoned; / but longer I'll remain. +Eke trow I well to spend all / my sire hath left to me." +Ne'er found queen a chamberlain / of such passing generosity. + +519 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Lady, be thou told, +That the king of Rhineland / raiment hath and gold +So plenteous to lavish / that we may well forego +To carry with us homeward / aught that Brunhild can bestow." + +520 + +"No; as high ye hold me," / spake the queen again, +"Let me now have filled / coffers twice times ten +Of gold and silken raiment, / that may deal out my hand, +When that we come over / into royal Gunther's land." + +521 + +Then with precious jewels / the coffers they filled for her. +The while her own chamberlain / must be standing near: +For no whit would she trust it / unto Giselher's man. +Whereat Gunther and Hagen / heartily to laugh began. + +522 + +Then spake the royal lady: / "To whom leave I my lands? +First must they now be given / in charge from out our hands." +Then spake the noble monarch: / "Whomsoe'er it pleaseth thee, +Bid him now come hither, / the same we'll let our Warden be." + +523 + +One of her highest kindred / near by the lady spied, +--He was her mother's brother-- / to him thus spake the maid: +"Now be to thee entrusted / the castles and eke the land, +Until that here shall govern / Gunther the king by his own hand." + +524 + +Trusty knights two thousand / from her company +Chose she to journey with her / unto Burgundy, +Beyond those thousand warriors / from Nibelungenland. +They made ready for the journey, / and downward rode unto the strand. + +525 + +Six and eighty ladies / led they thence with her, +Thereto good hundred maidens / that full beauteous were. +They tarried no whit longer, / for they to part were fain. +Of those they left behind them, / O how they all to weep began! + +526 + +In high befitting fashion / quitted she her land: +She kissed of nearest kindred / all who round did stand. +After fair leave-taking / they went upon the sea. +Back to her father's country / came never more that fair lady. + +527 + +Then heard you on the journey / many a kind of play: +Every pleasant pastime / in plenty had they. +Soon had they for their journey / a wind from proper art: +So with full great rejoicing / did they from that land depart. + +528 + +Yet would she on the journey / not be the monarch's spouse: +But was their pleasant pastime / reserved for his own house +At Worms within his castle / at a high festival, +Whither anon full joyous / came they with their warriors all. + + + + +NINTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried was sent to Worms + +529 + +When that they had journeyed / full nine days on their way, +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Now hear what I shall say. +We tarry with the tidings / for Worms upon the Rhine. +At Burgundy already / should now be messengers of thine." + +530 + +Then outspake King Gunther: / "There hast thou spoken true. +And this selfsame journey, / none were so fit thereto +As thyself, friend Hagen. / So do thou now ride on. +This our high court journey, / none else can better make it known." + +531 + +Thereto answered Hagen: / "Poor messenger am I. +Let me be treasure-warden. / Upon the ships I'll stay +Near by the women rather, / their guardian to be, +Till that we bring them safely / into the land of Burgundy. + +532 + +"Now do thou pray Siegfried / that he the message bear, +For he's a knight most fitting / this thing to have in care. +If he decline the journey, / then shalt thou courteously, +For kindness to thy sister, / pray that he not unwilling be." + +533 + +He sent for the good warrior / who came at his command. +He spake: "Since we are nearing / home in my own land, +So should I send a message / to sister dear of mine +And eke unto my mother, / that we are nigh unto the Rhine. + +534 + +"Thereto I pray thee, Siegfried, / now meet my wish aright," +Spake the noble monarch: / "I'll ever thee requite." +But Siegfried still refused it, / the full valiant man, +Till that King Gunther / sorely to beseech began. + +535 + +He spake: "Now bear the message, / in favor unto me +And eke unto Kriemhild / a maiden fair to see, +That the stately maiden / help me thy service pay." +When had heard it Siegfried, / ready was the knight straightway. + +536 + +"Now what thou wilt, command me: / 'twill not be long delayed. +This thing will I do gladly / for sake of that fair maid. +Why should I aught refuse her, / who all my heart hath won? +What thou for her commandest, / whate'er it be 'twill all be done." + +537 + +"Then say unto my mother, / Ute the queen, +That we on our journey / in joyous mood have been. +Let know likewise my brothers / what fortune us befell. +Eke unto all our kinsmen / shalt thou then merry tidings tell. + +538 + +"Unto my fair sister / shalt thou all confide. +From me bring her fair compliment / and from Brunhild beside, +And eke unto our household / and all my warriors brave. +What my heart e'er did strive for, / how well accomplished it I have! + +539 + +"And say as well to Ortwein / nephew dear of mine +That he do bid make ready / at Worms beside the Rhine. +And all my other kindred, / to them made known shall be, +With Brunhild I am minded / to keep a great festivity. + +540 + +"And say unto my sister, / when that she hath learned +That I am to my country / with many a guest returned, +She shall have care to welcome / my bride in fitting way. +So all my thoughts of Kriemhild / will be her service to repay." + +541 + +Then did Sir Siegfried / straightway in parting greet +High the Lady Brunhild, / as 'twas very meet, +And all her company; / then toward the Rhine rode he. +Nor in this world a better / messenger might ever be. + +542 + +With four and twenty warriors / to Worms did he ride. +When soon it was reported / the king came not beside, +Then did all the household / of direst news have dread: +They feared their royal master / were left in distant country dead. + +543 + +Then sprang they from the saddle, / full high they were of mood. +Full soon before them Giselher / the prince so youthful stood, +And Gernot his brother. / How quickly then spake he, +When he the royal Gunther / saw not in Siegfried's company: + +544 + +"Be thou welcome, Siegfried. / Yet shalt thou tell to me, +Why the king my brother / cometh not with thee. +Brunhild's prowess is it / hath taken him, I ween; +And so this lofty wooing / hath naught but our misfortune been." + +545 + +"Now cease such ill foreboding. / To you and friends hath sent +My royal companion / his good compliment. +Safe and sound I left him; / myself did he command +That I should be his herald / with tidings hither to your land. + +546 + +"Quickly shall ye see to it, / how that it may be, +That I the queen and likewise / your fair sister see. +From Gunther and Brunhild / the message will I tell +That hath now been sent them: / the twain do find them passing well." + +547 + +Then spake the youthful Giselher: / "So shalt thou go to her: +Here dost thou on my sister / a favor high confer. +In sooth she's mickle anxious / how't with my brother be. +The maid doth see thee gladly, / --of that will I be surety." + +548 + +Then outspake Sir Siegfried: / "If serve her aught I can, +That same thing most willing / in truth it shall be done. +Who now will tell the ladies / I would with them confer?" +Then was therein Giselher / the stately knight his messenger. + +549 + +Giselher the valiant / unto his mother kind +And sister spake the tidings / when he the twain did find: +"To us returned is Siegfried, / the hero of Netherlands +Unto the Rhine he cometh / at my brother Gunther's command. + +550 + +"He bringeth us the tidings / how't with the king doth fare. +Now shall ye give permission / that he 'fore you appear. +He'll tell the proper tidings / from Isenland o'er the main." +Yet mickle sad forebodings / did trouble still the ladies twain. + +551 + +They sprang for their attire / and donned it nothing slow. +Then bade they that Siegfried / to court should thither go. +That did he right willing / for he gladly them did see. +Kriemhild the noble maiden / spake to him thus graciously. + +552 + +"Welcome be, Sir Siegfried, / thou knight right praiseworthy. +Yet where may King Gunther / my noble brother be? +It is through Brunhild's prowess, / I ween, he is forlorn. +Alack of me, poor maiden, / that I into this world was born!" + +553 + +The valiant knight then answered: / "Give me news-bringer's meed +Know ye, fairest ladies, / ye weep without a need. +I left him well and happy, / that would I have you know; +They two have sent me hither / to bear the tidings unto you. + +554 + +"And offer thee good service / both his bride and he, +My full noble lady, / in love and loyalty. +Now give over weeping, / for straight will they be here." +They had for many a season / heard not a tale to them so dear. + +555 + +With fold of snow-white garment / then her eyes so bright +Dried she after weeping. / She gan thank the knight +Who of these glad tidings / had been the messenger. +Then was a mickle sorrow / and cause of weeping ta'en from her. + +556 + +She bade the knight be seated, / which he did willingly. +Then spake the lovely maiden: / "It were a joy to me, +Could I the message-bringer / with gold of mine repay. +Thereto art thou too high-born; / I'll serve thee then in other way." + +557 + +"If I alone were ruler," / spake he, "o'er thirty lands, +Yet gifts I'd take right gladly, / came they from thy fair hands." +Then spake the virtuous maiden: / "In truth it shall be so." +Then bade she her chamberlain / forth for message-money go. + +558 + +Four and twenty armlets / with stones of precious kind, +These gave she him for guerdon. / 'Twas not the hero's mind, +That he himself should keep them: / he dealt them all around +Unto her fair attendants / whom he within the chamber found. + +559 + +Of service, too, her mother / did kindly offer make. +"Then have I more to tell you," / the keen warrior spake: +"Of what the king doth beg you, / when comes he to the Rhine. +Wilt thou perform it, lady, / then will he e'er to thee incline. + +560 + +"The noble guests he bringeth, / --this heard I him request, +That ye shall well receive them; / and furthermore his hest, +That ye ride forth to meet him / 'fore Worms upon the strand. +So have ye from the monarch / faithfully his high command." + +561 + +Then spake the lovely maiden: / "Full ready there am I. +If I in aught can serve him, / I'll never that deny. +In all good faith and kindness / shall it e'er be done." +Then deeper grew her color / that from increase of joy she won. + +562 + +Never was royal message / better received before. +The lady sheer had kissed him, / if 'twere a thing to dare. +From those high ladies took he / his leave in courteous wise. +Then did they there in Burgundy / in way as Siegfried did advise. + +563 + +Sindold and Hunold / and Rumold the thane +In truth were nothing idle, / but wrought with might and main +To raise the sitting-places / 'fore Worms upon the strand. +There did the royal Steward / busy 'mid the workers stand. + +564 + +Ortwein and Gere / thought longer not to bide, +But sent unto their kinsmen / forth on every side. +They told of festive meeting / there that was to be; +And deck themselves to meet them / did the maidens fair to see. + +565 + +The walls throughout the palace / were dight full richly all, +Looking unto the strangers; / and King Gunther's hall +Full well with seats and tables / for many a noble guest. +And great was the rejoicing / in prospect of the mighty feast. + +566 + +Then rode from every quarter / hither through the land +The three monarchs' kinsmen, / who there were called to hand, +That they might be in waiting / for those expected there. +Then from enfolding covers / took they store of raiments rare. + +567 + +Some watchers brought the tidings / that Brunhild's followers were +Seen coming riding hither. / Then rose a mickle stir +Among the folk so many / in the land of Burgundy. +Heigh-ho! What valiant warriors / alike on both parts might you see! + +568 + +Then spake the fair Kriemhild: / "Of my good maidens, ye +Who at this reception / shall bear me company, +From out the chests now seek ye / attire the very best. +So shall praise and honor / be ours from many a noble guest." + +569 + +Then came the knights also / and bade bring forth to view +The saddles richly furnished / of ruddy golden hue, +That ladies fair should ride on / at Worms unto the Rhine. +Better horse-equipment / could never artisan design. + +570 + +Heigh-ho! What gold all glancing / from the steeds there shone! +Sparkled from their bridles / full many a precious stone. +Gold-wrought stools for mounting / and shining carpets good +Brought they for the ladies: / joyous were they all of mood. + +571 + +Within the court the heroes / bedight with trappings due +Awaited noble maidens, / as I have told to you. +A narrow band from saddle / went round each horse's breast, +Its beauty none could tell you: / of silk it was the very best. + +572 + +Six and eighty ladies / came in manner meet +Wearing each a wimple. / Kriemhild there to greet +They went, all fair to look on, / in shining garments clad. +Then came eke well apparelled / full many a fair and stately maid. + +573 + +Four and fifty were they / of the land of Burgundy, +And they were eke the noblest / that ever you might see. +Adorned with shining hair-bands / the fair-haired maids came on. +What now the king desired, / that most carefully was done. + +574 + +Made of stuffs all costly, / the best you might desire, +Before the gallant strangers / wore they such rich attire +As well did fit the beauty / of many amid the throng. +He sure had lost his senses, / who could have wished them any wrong. + +575 + +Of sable and of ermine / many a dress was worn. +Arms and hands a many / did they full well adorn +With rings o'er silken dresses / that there did clothe them well. +Of all the ready-making / none might ever fully tell. + +576 + +Full many a well-wrought girdle / in long and costly braid +About the shining garments / by many a hand was laid +On dress of precious ferrandine / of silk from Araby. +And full of high rejoicing / were those maids of high degree. + +577 + +With clasps before her bosom / was many a fair maid +Laced full beauteously. / She might well be sad, +Whose full beaming color / vied not with weeds she wore. +Such a stately company / ne'er possessed a queen before. + +578 + +When now the lovely maidens / attired you might see, +Soon were those beside them / should bear them company, +Of warriors high-hearted / a full mickle band. +And with their shields they carried / full many an ashen shaft in hand. + + + + +TENTH ADVENTURE + +How Brunhild was received at Worms + +579 + +On yonder side Rhine river / they saw a stately band, +The king and host of strangers, / ride down unto the strand, +And also many a lady / sitting on charger led. +By those who should receive them / was goodly preparation made. + +580 + +Soon they of Isenland / the ship had entered then, +And with them Siegfried's vassals / the Nibelungen men; +They strained unto the shore / with untiring hand +When they beheld the monarch's / friends upon the farther strand. + +581 + +Now list ye eke the story / of the stately queen, +Ute, how at her bidding / ladies fair were seen +Forth coming from the castle / to ride her company. +Then came to know each other / full many a knight and fair lady. + +582 + +The Margrave Gere / but to the castle gate +The bridle held for Kriemhild; / the keen Siegfried did wait +Thenceforward upon her. / She was a beauteous maid. +Well was the knight's good service / by the lady since repaid. + +583 + +Ortwein the valiant / Queen Ute rode beside, +And many a knight full gallant / was stately lady's guide. +At such a high reception, / that may we say, I ween, +Was ne'er such host of ladies / in company together seen. + +584 + +With show of rider's talent / the tilt was carried on, +For might the knights full gallant / naught fitting leave undone, +As passed down to the river / Kriemhild the lady bright. +Then helped was many a lady / fair from charger to alight. + +585 + +The king had then come over / and many a stranger too. +Heigh-ho! What strong shafts splintered / before the ladies flew! +Many a shaft go crashing / heard you there on shield. +Heigh-ho! What din of costly / arms resounded o'er the field. + +586 + +The full lovely maidens / upon the shore did stand, +As Gunther with the strangers / stepped upon the land; +He himself did Brunhild / by the hand lead on. +Then sparkled towards each other / rich dress and many a shining stone. + +587 + +Then went Lady Kriemhild / with fullest courtesy due, +To greet the Lady Brunhild / and her retinue. +And saw ye each the head-band / with fair hand move aside +When they kissed each other: / high courtesy did the ladies guide. + +588 + +Then spake the maiden Kriemhild, / a high-born lady she: +"Unto this our country / shalt thou right welcome be, +To me and to my mother / and each true friend of mine, +That we here have with us." / Then each did unto each incline. + +589 + +Within their arms the ladies / oft-times clasped each other. +Like this fond reception / heard ye of ne'er another, +As when both the ladies / there the bride did greet, +Queen Ute and her daughter; / oft-times they kissed her lips so sweet. + +590 + +When all of Brunhild's ladies / were come upon the strand, +Then was there taken / full fondly by the hand +By the warriors stately / many a fair lady. +Before the Lady Brunhild / the train of fair maids might ye see. + +591 + +Before their greetings ended / a mickle time was gone, +For lips of rosy color / were kissed there, many a one. +Long stood they together, / the royal ladies high, +And so to look upon them / pleased many a noble warrior's eye. + +592 + +Then spied with probing eye, too, / who before did hear +That till then was never / aught beheld so fair, +As those two royal ladies: / they found it was no lie. +In all their person might ye / no manner of deceit espy. + +593 + +Who there could spy fair ladies / and judge of beauty rare, +They praised the wife of Gunther / that she was passing fair; +Yet spake again the wise men / who looked with keener gaze, +They rather would to Kriemhild / before Brunhild award the praise. + +594 + +Then went unto each other / maid and fair lady. +Full many a fair one might ye / in rich adornment see. +There stood rich tents a many, / silken great and small, +Wherewith in every quarter / 'fore Worms the field was covered all. + +595 + +Of the king's high kindred / a mighty press there was. +Then bade they Brunhild / and Kriemhild on to pass, +And with them all the ladies, / where they in shade might be. +Thither did bring them warriors / of the land of Burgundy. + +596 + +When now the strangers also / on horse sat every one, +Plenteous knightly tilting / at shield was there begun. +Above the field rose dust-clouds, / as had the country been +All in flames a-burning; / who bore the honors there was seen. + +597 + +Looked on full many a maiden / as the knights did sport them so. +Meseemeth that Sir Siegfried / full many a to-and-fro +Did ride with his good followers / along 'fore many a tent. +With him of Nibelungen / a thousand stately men there went. + +598 + +Then came of Tronje Hagen, / whom the king did send; +He bade in pleasing manner / the tourney have an end, +Before in dust be buried / all the ladies fair. +And ready to obey him / soon the courteous strangers were. + +599 + +Then spake Sir Gernot: / "Now let the chargers stand, +Until the air is cooler, / for we must be at hand +As escort for fair ladies / unto the stately hall; +And will the king take saddle, / so let him find you ready all." + +600 + +When now the sound of tourney / o'er all the field was spent, +Then went for pleasant pastime / 'neath many a lofty tent +The knights unto the ladies, / and willing thither hied. +And there they passed the hours / till such time as they thence should + ride. + +601 + +Just before the evening / when the sun was in the west, +And the air grew cooler, / no longer did they rest, +But both knights and ladies / unto the castle passed. +And eyes in loving glances / on many a beauteous maid were cast. + +602 + +By hand of goodly warrior / many a coat was rent, +For in the country's custom / they tourneyed as they went, +Until before the palace / the monarch did dismount. +They tended fairest ladies / as knights high-spirited are wont. + +603 + +After fairest greeting / the queens did part again. +Dame Ute and her daughter, / thither passed the twain +With train of fair attendants / unto a hall full wide. +Din of merrymaking / heard ye there on every side. + +604 + +Arranged were sitting-places / where the king would be +With his guests at table. / By him might ye see +Standing the fair Brunhild. / She wore a royal crown +In the monarch's country, / the which might well such mistress own. + +605 + +Seats for all the people / at many a spacious board +There were, as saith the story, / where victuals rich were stored. +How little there was lacking / of all that makes a feast! +And by the monarch saw ye / sitting many a stately guest. + +606 + +The royal host's attendants / in basins golden red +Carried water forward. / And should it e'er be said +By any that a better / service did receive +Ever guests of monarch, / I never could such thing believe. + +607 + +Before the lord of Rhineland / with water was waited on, +Unto him Sir Siegfried, / as fitting was, had gone; +He called to mind a promise / that made by him had been +Ere that the Lady Brunhild / afar in Isenland he'd seen. + +608 + +He spake: "Thou shalt bethink thee / what once did plight thy hand, +If that the Lady Brunhild / should come unto this land, +Thou'dst give to me thy sister. / Where now what thou hast sworn? +In this thy wooing journey / not small the labor I have borne." + +609 + +Then to his guest the monarch: / "Well hast thou minded me, +And by this hand shall never / false word plighted be. +To gain thy wish I'd help thee / in the way as best I know." +Bidden then was Kriemhild / forth unto the king to go. + +610 + +With her full beauteous maidens / unto the Hall she passed. +Then sprang the youthful Giselher / adown the steps in haste +"Bid now these many maidens / wend their way again; +None but my sister only / unto the king shall enter in." + +611 + +Then led they Kriemhild thither / where the king was found, +With him were knights full noble / from many a land around. +Within that Hall so spacious / she waited the king's behest, +What time the Lady Brunhild / betook her likewise to the feast. + +612 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Sister mine full fair, +Redeem the word I've given, / an hold'st thou virtue dear. +Thee to a knight I plighted: / An tak'st thou him to man, +Thereby my wish full truly / unto the warrior hast thou done." + +613 + +Then spake the noble maiden: / "Brother full dear to me, +Not long shalt thou entreat me. / In truth I'll ever be +Obedient to thy bidding; / that shall now be done, +And him I'll take full gladly, / my Lord, whom thou giv'st me for man." + +614 + +Before those fair eyes' glances / grew Siegfried's color red. +The knight to Lady Kriemhild / his service offered. +Within a ring together / then were led the twain, +And they asked the maiden, / if she to take the knight were fain. + +615 + +Upon her face not little / was the modest glow; +Nathless to joy of Siegfried / did fortune will it so, +That the maiden would not / refuse the knight her hand. +Eke swore his wife to make her / the noble king of Netherland. + +616 + +When he to her had plighted, / and eke to him the maid, +Siegfried to embrace her / nothing more delayed, +But clasped in arms full fondly / and oft the lady fair, +And stately knights were witness / how that he kissed the princess there. + +617 + +When that the maids attendant / from thence had ta'en their leave, +In place of honor seated / Siegfried might ye perceive +And by him fairest Kriemhild; / and many a knight at hand +Was seen of the Nibelungen / at Siegfried's service ready stand. + +618 + +There too was Gunther seated / and with him Queen Brunhild. +At sight of Kriemhild sitting / by Siegfried was she filled +With anger such as never / before her heart did swell: +She wept, and tears in plenty / adown her shining face there fell. + +619 + +Then spake who ruled the country: / "What aileth, lady mine, +That so thou let'st be dimmed / thine eyes that brightly shine? +Be straight of joyous spirit, / for now at thy command +My land and my good castles / and host of stately warriors stand." + +620 + +"Good cause to me for weeping," / spake the lady fair. +"For sake of this thy sister / sorrow now I bear, +Whom here behold I seated / by one that serveth thee. +That must forever grieve me, / shall she thus dishonored be." + +621 + +Then answered her King Gunther: / "But for the nonce be still. +At other time more fitting / the thing to thee I'll tell, +Wherefore thus my sister / to Siegfried I did give. +And truly with the hero / may she ever joyous live." + +622 + +She spake: "Her name and beauty / thus lost it grieveth me. +An knew I only whither, / from hence I'd surely flee, +This night nor e'er hereafter / to share thy royal bed, +Say'st thou not truly wherefore / Kriemhild thus hath Siegfried wed." + +623 + +Then spake the noble monarch: / "Then unto thee be known +That he as stately castles, / lands wide as I, doth own. +And know thou that full surely / a mighty monarch he; +Wherefore the fairest maiden / I grant him thus his wife to be." + +624 + +Whate'er the king did tell her, / sad was she yet of mood. +Then hastened from the tables / full many a warrior good, +And jousted that the castle / walls gave back the din. +Amid his guests the monarch / waiting longingly was seen. + +625 + +He deemed 'twere better lying / beside his fair lady. +Of thinking on that plaisance / his mind he could not free, +And what her love would bring him / before the night be past; +He many a glance full tender / upon the Lady Brunhild cast. + +626 + +The guests they bade give over / in joust who combated, +For that with spouse new-wedded / the monarch would to bed. +Leaving then the banquet, / there together met +Kriemhild and Brunhild: / their bitter hate was silent yet. + +627 + +At hand were their attendants; / they longer tarried not, +And chamberlains full lordly / lights for them had brought. +Then parted eke the followers / of the monarchs twain, +And bearing Siegfried company / went full many a worthy thane. + +628 + +The lords were both come thither / where that they should lie. +As each one bethought him / of loving victory +To win o'er winsome lady, / merry he grew of mood. +The noble Siegfried's pastime / it was beyond all measure good. + +629 + +As there Sir Siegfried / by fair Kriemhild lay +And to the maid devoted / himself in such fond way +As noble knight beseemeth, / they twain to him were one, +And not a thousand others / had he then ta'en for her alone. + +630 + +I'll tell you now no further / how he the lady plied, +But list ye first the story / what Gunther did betide +By Lady Brunhild lying. / In sooth the noble thane +By side of other ladies / a deal more happily had lain. + +631 + +Withdrawn were now attendants, / man and also maid; +Not long to lock the chamber / within the king delayed. +He weened to have good pleasure / of that fair lady, +Yet was the time still distant / when that she his wife should be. + +632 + +In gown of whitest linen / unto the bed she passed. +Then thought the knight full noble: / "Now have I here at last +All that I e'er desired / as long as I can tell." +Perforce her stately beauty / did please the monarch passing well. + +633 + +That they should shine more dimly / he placed the lights aside, +Then where did lie the lady / the thane full eager hied. +He placed himself a-nigh her, / his joy right great it was, +As in his arms the monarch / the winsome maid did there embrace. + +634 + +A loving plaisance had he / with vigor there begun +If that the noble lady / had let the same be done. +She then did rage so sorely / that grieved was he thereat; +He weened to find who loved him, / --instead he found him naught but + hate. + +635 + +Spake she: "Good knight and noble, / from this thing give o'er. +That which thou here hast hope of, / it may be nevermore. +A maid I still will keep me / --well mayest thou know that-- +Until I learn that story." / Gunther wrathy grew thereat. + +636 + +Her gown he wrought to ruin / to win her maidenhead. +Whereat did seize a girdle / the full stately maid, +A strong and silken girdle / that round her sides she wore, +And with the same the monarch / she soon had brought to pains full sore. + +637 + +His feet and his hands also, / together bound she all, +Unto a nail she bore him / and hung him on the wall. +Him who disturbed her sleeping / in his love she sorely let, +And from her mighty prowess, / he full nigh his death had met. + +638 + +Then gan he to entreat her, / who master late had been. +"From these my bonds now loose me, / my full noble queen. +Nor trow I e'er, fair lady, / victor o'er thee to be, +And henceforth will I seldom / seek to lie thus nigh to thee." + +639 + +She recked not how 'twere with him, / as she full softly lay. +There hung he, will he nill he, / the night through unto day, +Until the light of morning / through the windows shone. +Could he e'er boast of prowess, / small now the measure he did own. + +640 + +"Now tell me, lordly Gunther, / wert thou thereat so sad, +If that in bonds should find thee" / --spake the fairest maid-- +"Thy royal men-in-waiting, / bound by lady's hand?" +Then spake the knight full noble: / "Thou should'st in case most evil + stand. + +641 + +"Eke had I little honor / therefrom," continued he. +"For all thy royal honor / let me then go to thee. +Since that my fond embracements / do anger thee so sore, +With these my hands I pledge thee / to touch thy garment nevermore." + +642 + +Then she loosed him straightway / and he once more stood free. +To the bed he went as erstwhile / where rested his lady. +But far from her he laid him / and well he now forebore +To stir the lady's anger / by touching e'en the gown she wore. + +643 + +At length came their attendants / who garments fresh did bring, +Whereof was ready for them / good store on that morning. +Yet merry as his folk were, / a visage sad did own +The lord of that proud country, / for all he wore that day a crown. + +644 + +As was the country's custom, / a thing folk do of right, +Gunther and Brunhild / presently were dight +To go unto the minster / where the mass was sung. +Thither eke came Siegfried, / and in their trains a mighty throng. + +645 + +As fitted royal honor / for them was thither brought +The crown that each should carry / and garments richly wrought. +There were they consecrated; / and when the same was done, +Saw ye the four together / happy stand and wearing crown. + +646 + +There was knighted many a squire, / --six hundred or beyond-- +In honor of the crowning, / that shall ye understand. +Arose full great rejoicing / in the land of Burgundy +As hand of youthful warrior / did shatter shaft right valiantly. + +647 + +Then sat in castle casement / maidens fair to see, +And many a shield beneath them / gleamed full brilliantly. +Yet himself had sundered / from all his men the king; +Though joyous every other, / sad-visaged stood he sorrowing. + +648 + +He and the doughty Siegfried, / how all unlike their mood! +Well wist the thing did grieve him / that noble knight and good. +He went unto the monarch / and straight addressed him so: +"This night how hast thou fared? / In friendship give thou me to know." + +649 + +To his guest the king gave answer: / "Than shame and scathe I've naught. +The devil's dam I surely / into my house have brought. +When as I thought to have her / she bound me like a thrall; +Unto a nail she bore me / and hung me high upon the wall. + +650 + +"There hung I sore in anguish / the night through until day +Ere that she would unbind me, / the while she softly lay! +And hast thou friendly pity / know then the grief I bear." +Then spake the doughty Siegfried: / "Such grieves me verily to hear. + +651 + +"The which I'll show thee truly, / wilt thou me not deny. +I'll bring it that to-night she / so near to thee shall lie +That she to meet thy wishes / shall tarry nevermore." +Thereat rejoice did Gunther / to think perchance his trials o'er. + +652 + +Then further spake Sir Siegfried: / "With thee 'twill yet be right. +I ween that all unequal / we twain have fared this night. +To me thy sister Kriemhild / dearer is than life; +Eke shall the Lady Brunhild / be yet this coming night thy wife." + +653 + +"I'll come unto thy chamber / this night all secretly," +Spake he, "and wrapped in mantle / invisible I'll be, +That of this my cunning / naught shall any know; +And thy attendants shalt thou / bid to their apartments go. + +654 + +"The lights I'll all extinguish / held by each page in hand, +By the which same token / shalt thou understand +I present am to serve thee. / I'll tame thy shrewish wife +That thou this night enjoy her, / else forfeit be my caitiff life." + +655 + +"An thou wilt truly leave me" / --answered him the king-- +'My lady yet a maiden, / I joy o'er this same thing. +So do thou as thou willest; / and takest thou her life, +E'en that I'll let pass o'er me, / --to lose so terrible a wife." + +656 + +"Thereto," spake then Siegfried, / "plight I word of mine, +To leave her yet a maiden. / A sister fair of thine +Is to me before all women / I ever yet have seen." +Gunther believed right gladly / what had by Siegfried plighted been. + +657 + +Meanwhile the merry pastime / with joy and zest went on. +But all the din and bustle / bade they soon be done, +When band of fairest ladies / would pass unto the hall +'Fore whom did royal chamberlains / bid backward stand the people all. + +658 + +The chargers soon and riders / from castle court were sped. +Each of the noble ladies / by bishop high was led, +When that before the monarchs / they passed to banquet board, +And in their train did follow / to table many a stately lord. + +659 + +There sat the king all hopeful / and full of merriment; +What him did promise Siegfried, / thereon his mind was bent. +To him as long as thirty / did seem that single day; +To plaisance with his lady, / thither turned his thought alway. + +660 + +And scarce the time he bided / while that the feast did last. +Now unto her chamber / the stately Brunhild passed, +And for her couch did Kriemhild / likewise the table leave. +Before those royal ladies / what host ye saw of warriors brave! + +661 + +Full soon thereafter Siegfried / sat right lovingly +With his fair wife beside him, / and naught but joy had he. +His hand she clasped full fondly / within her hand so white, +Until--and how she knew not-- / he did vanish from her sight. + +662 + +When she the knight did fondle, / and straightway saw him not, +Unto her maids attendant / spake the queen distraught: +"Meseemeth a mickle wonder / where now the king hath gone. +His hands in such weird fashion / who now from out mine own hath drawn?" + +663 + +Yet further not she questioned. / Soon had he hither gone +Where with lights were standing / attendants many a one. +The same he did extinguish / in every page's hand; +That Siegfried then was present / Gunther thereby did understand. + +664 + +Well wist he what he would there; / so bade he thence be gone +Ladies and maids-in-waiting. / And when that was done, +Himself the mighty monarch / fast did lock the door: +Two bolts all wrought securely / he quickly shoved the same before. + +665 + +The lights behind the curtains / hid he presently. +Soon a play was started / (for thus it had to be), +Betwixt the doughty Siegfried / and the stately maid: +Thereat was royal Gunther / joyous alike and sad. + +666 + +Siegfried there laid him / by the maid full near. +Spake she: "Let be, now, Gunther, / an hast thou cause to fear +Those troubles now repeated / which befell thee yesternight." +And soon the valiant Siegfried / through the lady fell in sorry plight. + +667 + +His voice did he keep under / and ne'er a word spake he. +Intently listened Gunther, / and though he naught could see, +Yet knew he that in secret / nothing 'twixt them passed. +In sooth nor knight nor lady / upon the bed had mickle rest. + +668 + +He did there as if Gunther / the mighty king he were, +And in his arms he pressed her, / the maiden debonair. +Forth from the bed she hurled him / where a bench there stood, +And head of valiant warrior / against a stool went ringing loud. + +669 + +Up sprang again undaunted / the full doughty man, +To try for fortune better. / When he anew began +Perforce to curb her fury, / fell he in trouble sore. +I ween that ne'er a lady / did so defend herself before. + +670 + +When he would not give over, / up the maid arose: +"My gown so white thou never / thus shalt discompose. +And this thy villain's manner / shall sore by thee be paid, +The same I'll teach thee truly," / further spake the buxom maid. + +671 + +Within her arms she clasped him, / the full stately thane, +And thought likewise to bind him, / as the king yestreen, +That she the night in quiet / upon her couch might lie. +That her dress he thus did rumple, / avenged the lady grievously. + +672 + +What booted now his prowess / and eke his mickle might? +Her sovereignty of body / she proved upon the knight; +By force of arm she bore him, / --'twixt wall and mighty chest +(For so it e'en must happen) / him she all ungently pressed. + +673 + +"Ah me!"--so thought the hero-- / "shall I now my life +Lose at hand of woman, / then will every wife +Evermore hereafter / a shrewish temper show +Against her lord's good wishes, / who now such thing ne'er thinks to do." + +674 + +All heard the monarch meanwhile / and trembled for the man. +Sore ashamed was Siegfried, / and a-raging he began. +With might and main he struggled / again to make him free, +Ere which to sorest trouble / 'neath Lady Brunhild's hand fell he. + +675 + +Long space to him it seemed / ere Siegfried tamed her mood. +She grasped his hand so tightly / that 'neath the nails the blood +Oozed from the pressure, / which made the hero wince. +Yet the stately maiden / subdued he to obedience since. + +676 + +Her unrestrained temper / that she so late displayed, +All overheard the monarch, / though ne'er a word he said. +'Gainst the bed did press her Siegfried / that aloud she cried, +Ungentle was the treatment / that he meted to the bride. + +677 + +Then grasped she for a girdle / that round her sides she wore, +And thought therewith to bind him; / but her limbs and body o'er +Strained beneath the vigor / that his strong arm displayed. +So was the struggle ended / --Gunther's wife was vanquished. + +678 + +She spake: "O noble monarch, / take not my life away. +The harm that I have done thee / full well will I repay. +No more thy royal embraces / by me shall be withstood, +For now I well have seen it, / thou canst be lord o'er woman's mood." + +679 + +From the couch rose Siegfried, / lying he left the maid, +As if that he would from him / lay his clothes aside. +He drew from off her finger / a ring of golden sheen +Without that e'er perceived / his practice the full noble queen. + +680 + +Thereto he took her girdle / that was all richly wrought: +If from wanton spirit / he did it, know I not. +The same he gave to Kriemhild: / the which did sorrow bear. +Then lay by one another / Gunther and the maiden fair. + +681 + +Hearty were his embraces / as such king became: +Perforce must she relinquish / her anger and her shame. +In sooth not little pallid / within his arms she grew, +And in that love-surrender / how waned her mighty prowess too! + +682 + +Then was e'en she not stronger / than e'er another bride; +He lay with fond embraces / the beauteous dame beside. +And had she struggled further, / avail how could it aught? +Gunther, when thus he clasped her, / such change upon her strength had + wrought. + +683 + +And with right inward pleasure / she too beside him lay +In warmest love embracings / until the dawn of day! +Meantime now had Siegfried / departure ta'en from there, +And was full well received / by a lady debonair. + +684 + +Her questioning he avoided / and all whereon she thought, +And long time kept he secret / what he for her had brought, +Until in his own country / she wore a royal crown; +Yet what for her he destined, / how sure at last it was her own. + +685 + +Upon the morn was Gunther / by far of better mood +Than he had been before it; / joy thus did spread abroad +'Mid host of knights full noble / that from his lands around +To his court had been invited, / and there most willing service found. + +686 + +The merry time there lasted / until two weeks were spent, +Nor all the while did flag there / the din of merriment +And every kind of joyance / that knight could e'er devise; +With lavish hand expended / the king thereto in fitting wise. + +687 + +The noble monarch's kinsmen / upon his high command +By gifts of gold and raiment / told forth his generous hand, +By steed and thereto silver / on minstrel oft bestowed. +Who there did gift desire / departed thence in merry mood. + +688 + +All the store of raiment / afar from Netherland, +The which had Siegfried's thousand / warriors brought to hand +Unto the Rhine there with them, / complete 'twas dealt away, +And eke the steeds well saddled: / in sooth a lordly life led they. + +689 + +Ere all the gifts so bounteous / were dealt the guests among, +They who would straightway homeward / did deem the waiting long. +Ne'er had guests of monarch / such goodly gifts before; +And so as Gunther willed it / the merry feast at last was o'er. + + + + +ELEVENTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried came home with his Wife + +690 + +When that now the strangers / all from thence were gone, +Spake unto his followers / noble Siegmund's son: +"We shall eke make ready / home to my land to fare." +Unto his spouse was welcome / such news when she the same did hear. + +691 + +She spake unto her husband: / "When shall we hence depart? +Not hastily on the journey / I pray thee yet to start. +With me first my brothers / their wide lands shall share." +Siegfried yet it pleased not / such words from Kriemhild to hear. + +692 + +The princes went unto him / and spake they there all three: +"Now know thou well, Sir Siegfried, / for thee shall ever be +In faithfulness our service / ready while yet we live." +The royal thanes then thanked he / who thus did proof of friendship give. + +693 + +"With thee further share we," / spake young Giselher, +"The lands and eke the castles / by us that owned are. +In wide lands whatsoever / we rule o'er warriors brave, +Of the same with Kriemhild / a goodly portion shalt thou have. + +694 + +Then spake unto the princes / the son of Siegmund +When he their lofty purpose / did rightly understand: +"God grant your goodly heritage / at peace may ever be, +And eke therein your people. / The spouse in sooth so dear to me." + +695 + +"May well forego the portion / that ye to her would give. +For she a crown shall carry, / if to such day I live, +And queen more rich than any / that lives she then must be. +What else to her ye offer, / therein I'll meet you faithfully." + +696 + +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild: / "If wealth thou wilt not choose, +Yet gallant thanes of Burgundy / shalt thou not light refuse. +They're such as monarch gladly / would lead to his own land. +Of these shall make division / with me my loving brothers' hand." + +697 + +Thereto spake noble Gernot: / "Now take to please thy mind. +Who gladly will go with thee / full many here thou'lt find. +Of thirty hundred warriors / we give thee thousand men +To be thy royal escort." / Kriemhild did summon then + +698 + +Hagen of Tronje to her / and Ortwein instantly: +And would they and their kinsmen / make her good company? +To hear the same did Hagen / begin to rage full sore. +Quoth he: "E'en royal Gunther / may thus bestow us nevermore. + +699 + +"Other men that serve thee, / let them follow thee; +Thou know'st the men of Tronje / and what their pledges be: +Here must we by the monarchs / in service true abide; +Hereto as them we followed, / so shall we henceforth keep their side." + +700 + +And so the thing was ended: / to part they ready make. +A high and noble escort / did Kriemhild to her take, +Maidens two and thirty / and five hundred men also. +In Lady Kriemhild's company / the Margrave Eckewart did go. + +701 + +Leave took they all together, / squire and also knight, +Maidens and fair ladies, / as was their wont aright. +There parted they with kisses / and eke with clasp of hand: +Right merrily they journeyed / forth from royal Gunther's land. + +702 + +Their friends did give them escort / upon the way full far. +Night-quarters at every station / they bade for them prepare, +Where they might wish to tarry / as on their way they went. +Then straightway was a messenger / unto royal Siegmund sent, + +703 + +To him and Siegelind bearing / thereof the joyful sign +That his son was coming / from Worms upon the Rhine +And with him Ute's daughter, / Kriemhild the fair lady. +As this could other message / nevermore so welcome be. + +704 + +"Well is me!" quoth Siegmund, / "that I the day have known, +When the fair Lady Kriemhild / here shall wear a crown. +Thus higher shall my kingdom / stand in majesty. +My son the noble Siegfried / here himself the king shall be." + +705 + +Then dealt the Lady Siegelind / velvet red in store, +Silver and gold full heavy / to them the news that bore: +She joyed to hear the story / that there her ear did greet. +Then decked themselves her ladies / all in rich attire meet. + +706 + +'Twas told, with Siegfried coming / whom they did expect. +Then bade they sitting-places / straightway to erect, +Where he before his kinsmen / a crown in state should wear. +Then men of royal Siegmund / forward rode to meet him there. + +707 + +Was e'er more royal greeting, / news have I not to hand, +As came the knights full noble / into Siegmund's land. +There the royal Siegelind / to Kriemhild forth did ride +With ladies fair a many, / and followed gallant knights beside + +708 + +Out a full day's journey / to welcome each high guest. +And little with the strangers / did they ever rest +Until into a castle / wide they came once more, +The same was called Xanten, / where anon a crown they wore. + +709 + +With smiling lips Dame Siegelind / --and Siegmund eke did this-- +To show the love they bore her / full oft did Kriemhild kiss, +And eke the royal Siegfried: / far was their sorrow gone. +And all the merry company, / good welcome had they every one. + +710 + +The train of strangers bade they / 'fore Siegmund's Hall to lead, +And maidens fair a many / down from gallant steed +Helped they there dismounting. / Full many a man was there +To do them willing service / as was meet for ladies fair. + +711 + +How great soe'er the splendor / erstwhile beside the Rhine, +Here none the less was given / raiment yet more fine, +Nor were they e'er attired / in all their days so well. +Full many a wonder might I / of their rich apparel tell. + +712 + +How there in state resplendent / they sat and had full store, +And how each high attendant / gold-broidered raiment wore, +With stones full rare and precious / set with skill therein! +The while with care did serve them / Siegelind the noble queen. + +713 + +Then spake the royal Siegmund / before his people so: +"To every friend of Siegfried / give I now to know +That he before these warriors / my royal crown shall wear." +And did rejoice that message / the thanes of Netherland to hear. + +714 + +His crown to him he tendered / and rule o'er wide domain +Whereof he all was master. / Where'er did reach his reign +Or men were subject to him / bestowed his hand such care +That evil-doers trembled / before the spouse of Kriemhild fair. + +715 + +In such high honor truly / he lived, as ye shall hear, +And judged as lofty monarch / unto the tenth year, +What time his fairest lady / to him a son did bear. +Thereat the monarch's kinsmen / filled with mickle joyance were. + +716 + +They soon the same did christen / and gave to him a name, +Gunther, as hight his uncle, / nor cause was that for shame: +Grew he but like his kinsmen / then happy might he be. +As well he did deserve it, / him fostered they right carefully. + +717 + +In the selfsame season / did Lady Siegelind die, +When was full power wielded / by Ute's daughter high, +As meet so lofty lady / should homage wide receive. +That death her thus had taken / did many a worthy kinsman grieve. + +718 + +Now by the Rhine yonder, / as we likewise hear, +Unto mighty Gunther / eke a son did bear +Brunhild his fair lady / in the land of Burgundy. +In honor to the hero / Siegfried named eke was he. + +719 + +The child they also fostered / with what tender care! +Gunther the noble monarch / anon did masters rare +Find who should instruct him / a worthy man to grow. +Alas! by sad misfortune / to friends was dealt how fell a blow! + +720 + +At all times the story / far abroad was told, +How that in right worthy / way the warriors bold +Lived there in Siegmund's country / as noble knights should do. +Likewise did royal Gunther / eke amid his kinsmen true. + +721 + +Land of the Nibelungen / Siegfried as well did own, +--Amid his lofty kindred / a mightier ne'er was known-- +And Schilbung's knights did serve him, / with all that theirs had been. +That great was thus his power / did fill with joy the knight full keen. + +722 + +Hoard of all the greatest / that hero ever won, +Save who erstwhile did wield it, / now the knight did own, +The which before a mountain / he seized against despite, +And for whose sake he further / slew full many a gallant knight. + +723 + +Naught more his heart could wish for; / yet had his might been less, +Rightly must all people / of the high knight confess, +One was he of the worthiest / that e'er bestrode a steed. +Feared was his mickle prowess, / and, sooth to say, thereof was need. + + + + +TWELFTH ADVENTURE + +How Gunther bade Siegfried to the Feast + +724 + +Now all time bethought her / royal Gunther's wife: +"How now doth Lady Kriemhild / lead so haughty life? +In sooth her husband Siegfried / doth homage to us owe, +But now full long unto us / little service he doth show." + +725 + +That in her heart in secret / eke she pondered o'er. +That they were strangers to her / did grieve her heart full sore, +And so seldom sign of service / came from Siegfried's land. +How it thus was fallen, / that she fain would understand. + +726 + +She probed then the monarch, / if the thing might be, +That she the Lady Kriemhild / once again might see. +She spake it all in secret / whereon her heart did dwell; +The thing she then did speak of / pleased the monarch passing well. + +727 + +"How might we bring them hither" / --spake the mighty king-- +"Unto this my country? / 'Twere ne'er to do, such thing. +They dwell too distant from us, / the quest I fear to make." +Thereto gave answer Brunhild, / and in full crafty wise she spake: + +728 + +"How high soe'er and mighty / king's man were ever one, +Whate'er should bid his master, / may he not leave undone." +Thereat did smile King Gunther, / as such words spake she: +Ne'er bade he aught of service, / oft as Siegfried he did see. + +729 + +She spake: "Full loving master, / as thou hold'st me dear, +Help me now that Siegfried / and thy sister fair +Come to this our country, / that them we here may see; +In sooth no thing could ever / unto me more welcome be. + +730 + +"Thy sister's lofty bearing / and all her courtesy, +Whene'er I think upon it, / full well it pleaseth me, +How we did sit together / when erst I was thy spouse! +Well in sooth with honor / might she the valiant Siegfried choose." + +731 + +She pleaded with the monarch / so long till answered he: +"Know now that guests none other / so welcome were to me. +To gain thy wish 'tis easy: / straight messengers of mine +To both shall message carry, / that hither come they to the Rhine." + +732 + +Thereto the queen gave answer: / "Now further shalt thou say, +When thou them wilt summon, / or when shall be the day +That our dear friends come hither / unto our country. +Who'll bear thy message thither, / shalt thou eke make known to me." + +733 + +"That will I," spake the monarch. / "Thirty of my men +Shall thither ride unto them." / The same he summoned then, +And bade them with the message / to Siegfried's land to fare. +They joyed as gave them Brunhild / stately raiment rich to wear. + +734 + +Then further spake the monarch: / "Ye knights from me shall bring +This message, nor withhold ye / of it anything, +Unto the doughty Siegfried / and eke my sister fair: +In the world could never any / to them a better purpose bear. + +735 + +"And pray them both that hither / they come unto the Rhine. +With me will e'er my lady / such grace to pay combine, +Ere turn of sun in summer / he and his men shall know +That liveth here full many / to them would willing honor show. + +736 + +"Unto royal Siegmund / bear greeting fair from me, +That I and my friends ever / to him well-minded be. +And tell ye eke my sister / she shall no wise omit +Hither to friends to journey: / ne'er feast could better her befit." + +737 + +Brunhild and Ute / and ladies all at hand, +They sent a fairest greeting / unto Siegfried's land +To winsome ladies many / and many a warrior brave. +With godspeed from the monarch / and friends the messengers took leave. + +738 + +They fared with full equipment: / their steeds did ready stand +And rich were they attired: / so rode they from that land +They hastened on the journey / whither they would fare; +Escort safe the monarch / had bidden eke for them prepare. + +739 + +Their journey had they ended / e'er three weeks were spent. +At the Nibelungen castle, / whither they were sent, +In the mark of Norway / found they the knight they sought, +And weary were the horses / the messengers so far had brought. + +740 + +Then was told to Siegfried / and to Kriemhild fair +How knights were there arrived / who did raiment wear +Like as in land of Burgundy / of wont the warriors dressed. +Thereat did hasten Kriemhild / from couch where she did lying rest. + +741 + +Then bade eke to a window / one of her maids to go. +She saw the valiant Gere / stand in the court below, +And with him his companions, / who did thither fare. +To hear such joyous tidings, / how soon her heart forgot its care. + +742 + +She spake unto the monarch: / "Look now thitherward +Where with the doughty Gere / stand in the castle yard +Whom to us brother Gunther / adown the Rhine doth send!" +Thereto spake doughty Siegfried: / "With greeting fair we'll them + attend." + +743 + +Then hastened their retainers / all the guests to meet, +And each of them in special / manner then did greet +The messengers full kindly / and warmest welcome bade. +Siegmund did likewise / o'er their coming wax full glad. + +744 + +In fitting way was harbored / Gere and his men, +And steeds in charge were taken. / The messengers went then +Where beside Sir Siegfried / the Lady Kriemhild sat. +To court the guests were bidden, / where them did greeting fair await. + +745 + +The host with his fair lady, / straightway up stood he, +And greeted fairly Gere / of the land of Burgundy +And with him his companions / King Gunther's men also. +Gere, knight full mighty, / bade they to a settle go. + +746 + +"Allow that first the message / we give ere sit we down; +The while we'll stand, though weary / upon our journey grown. +Tidings bring we to you / what greetings high have sent +Gunther and Brunhild / who live in royal fair content. + +747 + +"Eke what from Lady Ute / thy mother now we've brought. +The youthful Giselher / and also Sir Gernot +And best among thy kinsmen / have sent us here to thee: +A fairest greeting send they / from the land of Burgundy." + +748 + +"God give them meed," spake Siegfried; / "Good will and faith withal +I trow full well they harbor, / as with friends we shall; +Likewise doth eke their sister. / Now further shall ye tell +If that our friends beloved / at home in high estate do dwell. + +749 + +"Since that we from them parted / hath any dared to do +Scathe to my lady's kinsmen? / That shall ye let me know. +I'll help them ever truly / all their need to bear +Till that their enemies / have good cause my help to fear." + +750 + +Then spake the Margrave / Gere, a knight full good: +"In all that maketh knighthood / right proud they stand of mood. +Unto the Rhine they bid you / to high festivity: +They'd see you there full gladly, / thereof may ye not doubtful be. + +751 + +"And bid they eke my Lady / Kriemhild that she too, +When ended is the winter, / thither come with you. +Ere turn of sun in summer / trust they you to see." +Then spake the doughty Siegfried: / "That same thing might hardly be." + +752 + +Thereto did answer Gere / of the land of Burgundy: +"Your high mother Ute / hath message sent by me, +Likewise Gernot and Giselher, / that they plead not in vain. +That you they see so seldom / daily hear I them complain. + +753 + +"Brunhild my mistress / and all her company +Of fair maids rejoice them; / if the thing might be +That they again should see you, / of merry mood they were." +Then joy to hear the tidings / filled the Lady Kriemhild fair. + +754 + +Gere to her was kinsman. / The host did bid him rest, +Nor long were they in pouring / wine for every guest. +Thither came eke Siegmund / where the strangers he did see, +And in right friendly manner / spake to the men of Burgundy: + +755 + +"Welcome be, ye warriors, / ye Gunther's men, each one. +Since that fair Kriemhild / Siegfried my son +For spouse did take unto him, / we should you ofter see +Here in this our country, / an ye good friends to us would be." + +756 + +They spake, whene'er he wished it, / full glad to come were they. +All their mickle weariness / with joy was ta'en away. +The messengers were seated / and food to them they bore, +Whereof did Siegfried offer / unto his guests a goodly store. + +757 + +Until nine days were over / must they there abide, +When did at last the valiant / knights begin to chide +That they did not ride thither / again unto their land. +Then did the royal Siegfried / summon his good knights to hand. + +758 + +He asked what they did counsel: / should they unto the Rhine? +"Me unto him hath bidden / Gunther, friend of mine, +He and his good kinsmen, / to high festivity. +Thither went I full gladly, / but that his land so far doth lie. + +759 + +"Kriemhild bid they likewise / that she with me shall fare. +Good friends, now give ye counsel / how we therefor prepare. +And were it armies thirty / to lead in distant land, +Yet must serve them gladly / evermore Siegfried's hand." + +760 + +Then answer gave his warriors. / "An't pleaseth thee to go +Thither to the festival, / we'll counsel what thou do. +Thou shalt with thousand warriors / unto Rhine river ride. +So may'st thou well with honor / in the land of Burgundy abide." + +761 + +Then spake of Netherland / Siegmund the king: +"Will ye to the festival, / why hide from me the thing! +I'll journey with you thither, / if it not displeasing be, +And lead good thanes a hundred / wherewith to swell your company." + +762 + +"And wilt thou with us journey, / father full dear to me," +Spake the valiant Siegfried, / "full glad thereat I'll be. +Before twelve days are over / from these my lands I fare." +To all who'd join the journey / steeds gave they and apparel rare. + +763 + +When now the lofty monarch / was minded thus to ride +Bade he the noble messengers / longer not to bide, +And to his lady's kinsmen / to the Rhine a message sent, +How that he would full gladly / join to make them merriment. + +764 + +Siegfried and Kriemhild, / this same tale we hear, +To the messengers gave so richly / that the burden could not bear +Their horses with them homeward, / such wealth in sooth he had. +The horses heavy-laden / drove they thence with hearts full glad. + +765 + +Siegfried and Siegmund / their people richly clad. +Eckewart the Margrave, / straightway he bade +For ladies choose rich clothing, / the best that might be found, +Or e'er could be procured / in all Siegfried's lands around. + +766 + +The shields and the saddles / gan they eke prepare, +To knights and fair ladies / who with them should fare +Lacked nothing that they wished for, / but of all they were possessed. +Then to his friends led Siegfried / many a high and stately guest. + +767 + +The messengers swift hasted / homeward on their way, +And soon again came Gere / to the land of Burgundy. +Full well was he received, / and there dismounted all +His train from off their horses / before the royal Gunther's Hall. + +768 + +Old knights and youthful squires / crowded, as is their way, +To ask of them the tidings. / Thus did the brave knight say: +"When to the king I tell them / then shall ye likewise hear." +He went with his companions / and soon 'fore Gunther did appear. + +769 + +Full of joy the monarch / did from the settle spring; +And did thank them also / for their hastening +Brunhild the fair lady. / Spake Gunther eagerly: +"How now liveth Siegfried, / whose arm hath oft befriended me?" + +770 + +Then spake the valiant Gere: / "Joy o'er the visage went +Of him and eke thy sister. / To friends was never sent +A more faithful greeting / by good knight ever one, +Than now the mighty Siegfried / and his royal sire have done." + +771 + +Then spake unto the Margrave / the noble monarch's wife: +"Now tell me, cometh Kriemhild? / And marketh yet her life +Aught of the noble bearing / did her erstwhile adorn?" +"She cometh to thee surely," / Gere answer did return. + +772 + +Ute straightway the messengers / to her did command. +Then might ye by her asking / full well understand +To her was joyous tidings / how Kriemhild did betide. +He told her how he found her, / and that she soon would hither ride. + +773 + +Eke of all the presents / did they naught withhold, +That had given them Siegfried: / apparel rich and gold +Displayed they to the people / of the monarchs three. +To him were they full grateful / who thus had dealt so bounteously. + +774 + +"Well may he," quoth Hagen, / "of his treasure give, +Nor could he deal it fully, / should he forever live: +Hoard of the Nibelungen / beneath his hand doth lie. +Heigh-ho, if came it ever / into the land of Burgundy!" + +775 + +All the king's retainers / glad they were thereat, +That the guests were coming. / Early then and late +Full little were they idle, / the men of monarchs three. +Seats builded they full many / toward the high festivity. + +776 + +The valiant knight Hunold / and Sindold doughty thane +Little had of leisure. / Meantime must the twain, +Stands erect full many, / as their high office bade. +Therein did help them Ortwein, / and Gunther's thanks therefor they had. + +777 + +Rumold the High Steward / busily he wrought +Among them that did serve him. / Full many a mighty pot, +And spacious pans and kettles, / how many might ye see! +For those to them were coming / prepared they victuals plenteously. + + + + +THIRTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How they fared to the Feast + +778 + +Leave we now the ardor / wherewith they did prepare, +And tell how Lady Kriemhild / and eke her maidens fair +From land of Nibelungen / did journey to the Rhine. +Ne'er did horses carry / such store of raiment rich and fine. + +779 + +Carrying-chests full many / for the way they made ready. +Then rode the thane Siegfried / with his friends in company +And eke the queen thither / where joy they looked to find. +Where now was high rejoicing / they soon in sorest grief repined. + +780 + +At home behind them left they / Lady Kriemhild's son +That she did bear to Siegfried / --'twas meet that that be done. +From this their festive journey / rose mickle sorrow sore: +His father and his mother / their child beheld they never more. + +781 + +Then eke with them thither / Siegmund the king did ride. +Had he e'er had knowledge / what should there betide +Anon from that high journey, / such had he never seen: +Ne'er wrought upon dear kindred / might so grievous wrong have been. + +782 + +Messengers sent they forward / that the tidings told should be. +Then forth did ride to meet them / with gladsome company +Ute's friends full many / and many a Gunther's man. +With zeal to make him ready / unto his guests the king began. + +783 + +Where he found Brunhild sitting, / thither straight went he. +"How received thee my sister, / as thou cam'st to this country? +Like preparations shalt thou / for Siegfried's wife now make." +"Fain do I that; good reason / have I to love her well," she spake. + +784 + +Then quoth the mighty monarch: / "The morn shall see them here. +Wilt thou go forth to meet them, / apace do thou prepare, +That not within the castle / their coming we await. +Guests more welcome never / greeted I of high estate." + +785 + +Her maidens and her ladies / straight did she command +To choose them rich apparel, / the best within the land, +In which the stately company / before the guests should go. +The same they did right gladly, / that may ye full surely know. + +786 + +Then eke to offer service / the men of Gunther hied, +And all his doughty warriors / saw ye by the monarch's side. +Then rode the queen full stately / the strangers forth to meet, +And hearty was the welcome / as she her loving guests did greet. + +787 + +With what glad rejoicings / the guests they did receive! +They deemed that Lady Kriemhild / did unto Brunhild give +Ne'er so warm a welcome / to the land of Burgundy. +Bold knights that yet were strangers / rejoiced each other there to see. + +788 + +Now come was also Siegfried / with his valiant men. +The warriors saw ye riding / thither and back again, +Where'er the plain extended, / with huge company. +From the dust and crowding / could none in all the rout be free. + +789 + +When the monarch of the country / Siegfried did see +And with him also Siegmund, / spake he full lovingly: +"Be ye to me full welcome / and to all these friends of mine. +Our hearts right glad they shall be / o'er this your journey to the + Rhine." + +790 + +"God give thee meed," spake Siegmund, / a knight in honor grown. +"Since that my son Siegfried / thee for a friend hath known, +My heart hath e'er advised me / that thee I soon should see." +Thereto spake royal Gunther: / "Joy hast thou brought full great to me." + +791 + +Siegfried was there received, / as fitted his high state, +With full lofty honors, / nor one did bear him hate. +There joined in way right courteous / Gernot and Giselher: +I ween so warm a welcome / did they make for strangers ne'er. + +792 + +The spouse of each high monarch / greeted the other there. +Emptied was many a saddle, / and many a lady fair +By hero's hand was lifted / adown upon the sward. +By waiting on fair lady / how many a knight sought high reward! + +793 + +So went unto each other / the ladies richly dight; +Thereat in high rejoicing / was seen full many a knight, +That by both the greeting / in such fair way was done. +By fair maidens standing / saw ye warriors many a one. + +794 + +Each took the hand of other / in all their company; +In courteous manner bending / full many might ye see +And loving kisses given / by ladies debonair. +Rejoiced the men of Gunther / and Siegfried to behold them there. + +795 + +They bided there no longer / but rode into the town. +The host bade to the strangers / in fitting way be shown, +That they were seen full gladly / in the land of Burgundy. +High knights full many tilting / before fair ladies might ye see. + +796 + +Then did of Tronje Hagen / and eke Ortwein +In high feats of valor / all other knights outshine. +Whate'er the twain commanded / dared none to leave undone; +By them was many a service / to their high guests in honor shown. + +797 + +Shields heard ye many clashing / before the castle gate +With din of lances breaking. / Long in saddle sate +The host and guests there with him, / ere that within they went. +With full merry pastime / joyfully the hours they spent. + +798 + +Unto the Hall so spacious / rode the merry company. +Many a silken cover / wrought full cunningly +Saw ye beyond the saddles / of the ladies debonair +On all sides down hanging. / King Gunther's men did meet them there. + +799 + +Led by the same the strangers / to their apartments passed. +Meanwhile oft her glances / Brunhild was seen to cast +Upon the Lady Kriemhild, / for she was passing fair. +In lustre vied her color / with the gold that she did wear. + +800 + +Within the town a clamor / at Worms on every hand +Arose amid their followers. / King Gunther gave command +To Dankwart his Marshal / to tend them all with care. +Then bade he fitting quarters / for the retinue prepare. + +801 + +Without and in the castle / the board for all was set: +In sooth were never strangers / better tended yet. +Whatever any wished for / did they straightway provide: +So mighty was the monarch / that naught to any was denied. + +802 + +To them was kind attention / and all good friendship shown. +The host then at the table / with his guests sat him down. +Siegfried they bade be seated / where he did sit before. +Then went with him to table / full many a stately warrior more. + +803 + +Gallant knights twelve hundred / in the circle there, I ween, +With him sat at table. / Brunhild the lofty queen +Did deem that never vassal / could more mighty be. +So well she yet was minded, / she saw it not unwillingly. + +804 + +There upon an evening, / as the king with guests did dine, +Full many a rich attire / was wet with ruddy wine, +As passed among the tables / the butlers to and fro. +And great was their endeavor / full honor to the guests to show. + +805 + +As long hath been the custom / at high festivity +Fit lodging there was given / to maid and high lady. +From whence soe'er they came there / they had the host's good care; +Unto each guest was meted / of fitting honors fullest share. + +806 + +When now the night was ended / and came forth the dawn, +From chests they carried with them, / full many a precious stone +Sparkled on costly raiment / by hand of lady sought. +Stately robes full many / forth to deck them then they brought. + +807 + +Ere dawn was full appeared, / before the Hall again +Came knights and squires many, / whereat arose the din +E'en before the matins / that for the king were sung. +Well pleased was the monarch / at joust to see the warriors young. + +808 + +Full lustily and loudly / many a horn did blare, +Of flutes and eke of trumpets / such din did rend the air +That loud came back the echo / from Worms the city wide. +The warriors high-hearted / to saddle sprung on every side. + +809 + +Arose there in that country / high a jousting keen +Of many a doughty warrior / whereof were many seen, +Whom there their hearts more youthful / did make of merry mood; +Of these 'neath shield there saw ye / many a stately knight and good. + +810 + +There sat within the casements / many a high lady +And maidens many with them, / the which were fair to see. +Down looked they where did tourney / many a valiant man. +The host with his good kinsmen / himself a-riding soon began. + +811 + +Thus they found them pastime, / and fled the time full well; +Then heard they from the minster / the sound of many a bell. +Forth upon their horses / the ladies thence did ride; +Many a knight full valiant / the lofty queens accompanied. + +812 + +They then before the minster / alighted on the grass. +Unto her guests Queen Brunhild / yet well-minded was. +Into the spacious minster / they passed, and each wore crown. +Their friendship yet was broken / by direst jealousy anon. + +813 + +When the mass was ended / went they thence again +In full stately manner. / Thereafter were they seen +Joyous at board together. / The pleasure full did last, +Until days eleven / amid the merry-making passed. + + + + +FOURTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How the Queens Berated Each Other + +814 + +Before the time of vespers / arose a mickle stir +On part of warriors many / upon the courtyard there. +In knightly fashion made they / the time go pleasantly; +Thither knights and ladies / went their merry play to see. + +815 + +There did sit together / the queens, a stately pair, +And of two knights bethought them, / that noble warriors were. +Then spake the fair Kriemhild: / "Such spouse in sooth have I, +That all these mighty kingdoms / might well beneath his sceptre lie." + +816 + +Then spake the Lady Brunhild: / "How might such thing be? +If that there lived none other / but himself and thee, +So might perchance his power / rule these kingdoms o'er; +The while that liveth Gunther, / may such thing be nevermore." + +817 + +Then again spake Kriemhild: / "Behold how he doth stand +In right stately fashion / before the knightly band, +Like as the bright moon beameth / before the stars of heaven. +In sooth to think upon it / a joyous mood to me is given." + +818 + +Then spake the Lady Brunhild: / "How stately thy spouse be, +Howe'er so fair and worthy, / yet must thou grant to me +Gunther, thy noble brother, / doth far beyond him go: +In sooth before all monarchs / he standeth, shalt thou truly know." + +819 + +Then again spake Kriemhild: / "So worthy is my spouse, +That I not have praised him / here without a cause. +In ways to tell full many / high honor doth he bear: +Believe well may'st thou, Brunhild, / he is the royal Gunther's peer." + +820 + +"Now guard thee, Lady Kriemhild, / my word amiss to take, +For not without good reason here / such thing I spake. +Both heard I say together, / when them I first did see, +When that erstwhile the monarch / did work his royal will o'er me, + +821 + +And when in knightly fashion / my love for him he won, +Then himself said Siegfried / he were the monarch's man. +For liegeman thus I hold him, / since he the same did say." +Then spake fair Lady Kriemhild: / "With me 'twere dealt in sorry way. + +822 + +"And these my noble brothers, / how could they such thing see, +That I of their own liegeman / e'er the wife should be? +Thus will I beg thee, Brunhild, / as friend to friend doth owe, +That thou, as well befits thee, / shalt further here such words forego." + +823 + +"No whit will I give over," / spake the monarch's spouse. +"Wherefore should I so many / a knight full valiant lose, +Who to us in service / is bounden with thy man?" +Kriemhild the fair lady / thereat sore to rage began. + +824 + +"In sooth must thou forego it / that he should e'er to thee +Aught of service offer. / More worthy e'en is he +Than is my brother Gunther, / who is a royal lord. +So shalt thou please to spare me / what I now from thee have heard. + +825 + +"And to me is ever wonder, / since he thy liegeman is, +And thou dost wield such power / over us twain as this, +That he so long his tribute / to thee hath failed to pay. +'Twere well thy haughty humor / thou should'st no longer here display." + +826 + +"Too lofty now thou soarest," / the queen did make reply. +"Now will I see full gladly / if in such honor high +This folk doth hold thy person / as mine own it doth." +Of mood full sorely wrathful / were the royal ladies both. + +827 + +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild: / "That straightway shall be seen. +Since that thou my husband / dost thy liegeman ween, +To-day shall all the followers / of both the monarchs know, +If I 'fore wife of monarch / dare unto the minster go. + +828 + +"That I free-born and noble / shalt thou this day behold, +And that my royal husband, / as now to thee I've told, +'Fore thine doth stand in honor, / by me shall well be shown. +Ere night shalt thou behold it, / how wife of him thou call'st thine own + +829 + +To court shall lead good warriors / in the land of Burgundy. +And ne'er a queen so lofty / as I myself shall be +Was seen by e'er a mortal, / or yet a crown did wear." +Then mickle was the anger / that rose betwixt the ladies there. + +830 + +Then again spake Brunhild: / "Wilt thou not service own, +So must thou with thy women / hold thyself alone +Apart from all my following, / as we to minster go." +Thereto gave answer Kriemhild: / "In truth the same I fain will do." + +831 + +"Now dress ye fair, my maidens," / Kriemhild gave command. +"Nor shall shame befall me / here within this land. +An have ye fair apparel, / let now be seen by you. +What she here hath boasted / may Brunhild have full cause to rue." + +832 + +But little need to urge them: / soon were they richly clad +In garments wrought full deftly, / lady and many a maid. +Then went with her attendants / the spouse of the monarch high; +And eke appeared fair Kriemhild, / her body decked full gorgeously, + +833 + +With three and forty maidens, / whom to the Rhine led she, +All clad in shining garments / wrought in Araby. +So came unto the minster / the maidens fair and tall. +Before the hall did tarry / for them the men of Siegfried all. + +834 + +The people there did wonder / how the thing might be, +That no more together / the queens they thus did see, +And that beside each other / they went not as before. +Thereby came thanes a many / anon to harm and trouble sore. + +835 + +Here before the minster / the wife of Gunther stood. +And good knights full many / were there of merry mood +With the fair ladies / that their eyes did see. +Then came the Lady Kriemhild / with a full stately company. + +836 + +Whate'er of costly raiment / decked lofty maids before, +'Twas like a windy nothing / 'gainst what her ladies wore. +The wives of thirty monarchs / --such riches were her own-- +Might ne'er display together / what there by Lady Kriemhild shown. + +837 + +Should any wish to do so / he could not say, I ween, +That so rich apparel / e'er before was seen +As there by her maidens / debonair was worn: +But that it grieved Brunhild / had Kriemhild that to do forborne. + +838 + +There they met together / before the minster high. +Soon the royal matron, / through mickle jealousy, +Kriemhild to pass no further, / did bid in rage full sore: +"She that doth owe her homage / shall ne'er go monarch's wife before." + +839 + +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild / --angry was her mood: +"An could'st thou but be silent / that for thee were good. +Thyself hast brought dishonor / upon thy fair body: +How might, forsooth, a harlot / ever wife of monarch be?" + +840 + +"Whom mak'st thou now a harlot?" / the king's wife answered her. +"That do I thee," spake Kriemhild, / "for that thy body fair +First was clasped by Siegfried, / knight full dear to me. +In sooth 'twas ne'er my brother / won first thy maidenhead from thee. + +841 + +"How did thy senses leave thee? / Cunning rare was this. +How let his love deceive thee, / since he thy liegeman is? +And all in vain," quoth Kriemhild, / "the plaint I hear thee bring." +"In sooth," then answered Brunhild, / "I'll tell it to my spouse the + king." + +842 + +"What reck I of such evil? / Thy pride hath thee betrayed, +That thou deem'st my homage / should e'er to thee be paid. +Know thou in truth full certain / the thing may never be: +Nor shall I e'er be ready / to look for faithful friend in thee." + +843 + +Thereat did weep Queen Brunhild: / Kriemhild waited no more, +But passed into the minster / the monarch's wife before, +With train of fair attendants. / Arose there mickle hate, +Whereby eyes brightly shining / anon did grow all dim and wet. + +844 + +However God they worshipped / or there the mass was sung, +Did deem the Lady Brunhild / the waiting all too long, +For that her heart was saddened / and angry eke her mood. +Therefore anon must suffer / many a hero keen and good. + +845 + +Brunhild with her ladies / 'fore the minster did appear. +Thought she: "Now must Kriemhild / further give me to hear +Of what so loud upbraideth / me this free-tongued wife. +And if he thus hath boasted, / amend shall Siegfried make with life." + +846 + +Now came the noble Kriemhild / followed by warrior band. +Then spake the Lady Brunhild: / "Still thou here shalt stand. +Thou giv'st me out for harlot: / let now the same be seen. +Know thou, what thus thou sayest / to me hath mickle sorrow been." + +847 + +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild: / "So may'st thou let me go. +With the ring upon my finger / I the same can show: +That brought to me my lover / when first by thee he lay." +Ne'er did Lady Brunhild / know grief as on this evil day. + +848 + +Quoth she: "This ring full precious / some hand from me did steal, +And from me thus a season / in evil way conceal: +Full sure will I discover / who this same thief hath been." +Then were the royal ladies / both in mood full angry seen. + +849 + +Then gave answer Kriemhild: / "I deem the thief not I. +Well hadst thou been silent, / hold'st thou thine honor high. +I'll show it with this girdle / that I around me wear, +That in this thing I err not: / Siegfried hath lain by thee full near." + +850 + +Wrought of silk of Nineveh / a girdle there she wore, +That of stones full precious / showed a goodly store. +When saw it Lady Brunhild / straight to weep gan she: +Soon must Gunther know it / and all the men of Burgundy. + +851 + +Then spake the royal matron: / "Bid hither come to me +Of Rhine the lofty monarch. / Hear straightway shall he +How that his sister / doth my honor stain. +Here doth she boast full open / that I in Siegfried's arms have lain." + +852 + +The king came with his warriors, / where he did weeping find +His royal spouse Brunhild, / then spake in manner kind: +"Now tell me, my dear lady, / who hath done aught to thee?" +She spake unto the monarch: / "Thy wife unhappy must thou see. + +853 + +"Me, thy royal consort, / would thy sister fain +Rob of all mine honor. / To thee must I complain: +She boasts her husband Siegfried / hath known thy royal bed." +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "An evil thing she then hath said." + +854 + +"I did lose a girdle: / here by her 'tis worn, +And my ring all golden. / That I e'er was born, +Do I rue full sorely / if thou wardest not from me +This full great dishonor: / that will I full repay to thee." + +855 + +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "Now shall he come near, +And hath he such thing boasted, / so shall he let us hear: +Eke must full deny it / the knight of Netherland." +Then straight the spouse of Kriemhild / hither to bring he gave command. + +856 + +When that angry-minded / Siegfried them did see, +Nor knew thereof the reason, / straightway then spake he: +"Why do weep these ladies? / I'd gladly know that thing, +Or wherefore to this presence / I am bidden by the king." + +857 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Sore grieveth me this thing: +To me my Lady Brunhild / doth the story bring, +How that thereof thou boastest / that her fair body lay +First in thy embraces: / this doth thy Lady Kriemhild say." + +858 + +Thereto gave answer Siegfried: / "An if she thus hath said, +Full well shall she repent it / ere doth rest my head: +Before all thy good warriors / of that I'll make me free, +And swear by my high honor / such thing hath ne'er been told by me." + +859 + +Then spake of Rhine the monarch: / "That shalt thou let us see. +The oath that thou dost offer, / if such performed be, +Of all false accusation / shalt thou delivered stand." +In ring to take their station / did he the high-born thanes command. + +860 + +The full valiant Siegfried / in oath the hand did give. +Then spake the lordly monarch: / "Well now do I perceive +How thou art all blameless, / of all I speak thee free; +What here maintains my sister, / the same hath ne'er been done by thee." + +861 + +Thereto gave answer Siegfried: / "If gain should e'er accrue +Unto my spouse, that Brunhild / from her had cause to rue, +Know that to me full sorely / 'twould endless sorrow be." +Then looked upon each other / the monarchs twain right graciously. + +862 + +"So should we govern women," / spake the thane Siegfried, +"That to leave wanton babble / they should take good heed. +Forbid it to thy wife now, / to mine I'll do the same. +Such ill-becoming manner /in sooth doth fill my heart with shame." + +863 + +No more said many a lady / fair, but thus did part. +Then did the Lady Brunhild / grieve so sore at heart, +That it must move to pity / all King Gunther's men. +To go unto his mistress / Hagen of Tronje saw ye then. + +864 + +He asked to know her worry, / as he her weeping saw. +Then told she him the story. / To her straight made he vow, +That Lady Kriemhild's husband / must for the thing atone, +Else henceforth should never / a joyous day by him be known. + +865 + +Then came Ortwein and Gernot / where they together spake, +And there the knights did counsel / Siegfried's life to take. +Thither came eke Giselher, / son of Ute high. +When heard he what they counselled, / spake he free from treachery: + +866 + +"Ye good knights and noble, / wherefore do ye that? +Ne'er deserved hath Siegfried / in such way your hate, +That he therefor should forfeit / at your hands his life. +In sooth small matter is it / that maketh cause for woman's strife." + +867 + +"Shall we rear race of bastards?" / Hagen spake again: +"Therefrom but little honor / had many a noble thane. +The thing that he hath boasted / upon my mistress high, +Therefor my life I forfeit, / or he for that same thing shall die." + +868 + +Then spake himself the monarch: / "To us he ne'er did give +Aught but good and honor: / let him therefore live. +What boots it if my anger / I vent the knight upon? +Good faith he e'er hath shown us, / and that full willingly hath done." + +869 + +Then outspake of Metz / Ortwein the thane: +"In sooth his arm full doughty / may bring him little gain. +My vengeance full he'll suffer, / if but my lord allow." +The knights--nor reason had they-- / against him mortal hate did vow. + +870 + +None yet his words did follow, / but to the monarch's ear +Ne'er a day failed Hagen / the thought to whisper there: +If that lived not Siegfried, / to him would subject be +Royal lands full many. / The king did sorrow bitterly. + +871 + +Then did they nothing further: / soon began the play. +As from the lofty minster / passed they on their way, +What doughty shafts they shattered / Siegfried's spouse before! +Gunther's men full many / saw ye there in rage full sore. + +872 + +Spake the king: "Now leave ye / such mortal enmity: +The knight is born our honor / and fortune good to be. +Keen is he unto wonder, / hath eke so doughty arm +That, were the contest open, / none is who dared to work him harm." + +873 + +"Naught shall he know," quoth Hagen. / "At peace ye well may be: +I trow the thing to manage / so full secretly +That Queen Brunhild's weeping / he shall rue full sore. +In sooth shall he from Hagen / have naught but hate for evermore." + +874 + +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "How might such thing e'er be?" +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "That shalt thou hear from me. +We'll bid that hither heralds / unto our land shall fare, +Here unknown to any, / who shall hostile tidings bear. + +875 + +"Then say thou 'fore the strangers / that thou with all thy men +Wilt forth to meet the enemy. / He'll offer service then +If that thus thou sayest, / and lose thereby his life, +Can I but learn the story / from the valiant warrior's wife." + +876 + +The king in evil manner / did follow Hagen's rede, +And the two knights, ere any / man thereof had heed, +Had treachery together / to devise begun. +From quarrel of two women / died heroes soon full many a one. + + + + +FIFTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried was Betrayed + +877 + +Upon the fourth morning / two and thirty men +Saw ye to court a-riding. / Unto King Gunther then +Were tidings borne that ready / he should make for foe-- +This lie did bring to women / many, anon full grievous woe. + +878 + +Leave had they 'fore the monarch's / presence to appear, +There to give themselves out / for men of Luedeger, +Him erstwhile was conquered / by Siegfried's doughty hand +And brought a royal hostage / bound unto King Gunther's land. + +879 + +The messengers he greeted / and to seat them gave command. +Then spake one amongst them: / "Allow that yet we stand +Until we tell the tidings / that to thee are sent. +Know thou that warriors many / on thee to wreak their hate are bent. + +880 + +"Defiance bids thee Luedegast / and eke Luedeger +Who at thy hands full sorely / erstwhile aggrieved were: +In this thy land with hostile / host they'll soon appear." +To rage begin the monarch / when such tidings he did hear. + +881 + +Those who did act thus falsely / they bade to lodge the while. +How himself might Siegfried / guard against such guile +As there they planned against him, / he or ever one? +Unto themselves 'twas sorrow / great anon that e'er 'twas done. + +882 + +With his friends the monarch / secret counsel sought. +Hagen of Tronje / let him tarry not. +Of the king's men yet were many / who fain would peace restore: +But nowise would Hagen / his dark purpose e'er give o'er. + +883 + +Upon a day came Siegfried / when they did counsel take, +And there the knight of Netherland / thus unto them spake: +"How goeth now so sorrowful / amid his men the king? +I'll help you to avenge it, / hath he been wronged in anything." + +884 + +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "Of right do I lament, +Luedegast and Luedeger / have hostile message sent: +They will in open manner / now invade my land." +The knight full keen gave answer: / "That in sooth shall Siegfried's + hand, + +885 + +"As doth befit thy honor, / know well to turn aside. +As erstwhile to thy enemies, / shall now from me betide: +Their lands and eke their castles / laid waste by me shall be +Ere that I give over: / thereof my head be surety. + +886 + +"Thou and thy good warriors / shall here at home abide, +And let me with my company / alone against them ride. +That I do serve thee gladly, / that will I let them see; +By me shall thy enemies, / --that know thou-- full requited be." + +887 + +"Good tidings, that thou sayest," / then the monarch said, +As if he in earnest / did joy to have such aid. +Deep did bow before him / the king in treachery. +Then spake Sir Siegfried: / "Bring that but little care to thee." + +888 + +Then serving-men full many / bade they ready be: +'Twas done alone that Siegfried / and his men the same might see. +Then bade he make them ready / the knights of Netherland, +And soon did Siegfried's warriors / for fight apparelled ready stand. + +889 + +"My royal father Siegmund, / here shalt thou remain," +Spake then Sir Siegfried. / "We come full soon again +If God but give good fortune, / hither the Rhine beside; +Here shalt thou with King Gunther / full merrily the while abide." + +890 + +Then bound they on the banners / as they thence would fare. +Men of royal Gunther / were full many there, +Who naught knew of the matter, / or how that thing might be: +There with Siegfried saw ye / of knights a mickle company. + +891 + +Their helms and eke their mail-coats / bound on horse did stand: +And doughty knights made ready / to fare from out that land. +Then went of Tronje Hagen / where he Kriemhild found +And prayed a fair leave-taking, / for that to battle they were bound. + +892 + +"Now well is me, such husband / I have," Kriemhild said, +"That to my loving kindred / can bring so potent aid, +As my lord Siegfried / doth now to friends of me. +Thereby," spake the high lady, / "may I full joyous-minded be. + +893 + +"Now full dear friend Hagen, / call thou this to mind, +Good-will I e'er have borne thee, / nor hate in any kind. +Let now therefrom have profit / the husband dear to me. +If Brunhild aught I've injured / may't not to him requited be. + +894 + +"For that I since have suffered," / spake the high lady. +"Sore punishment hath offered / therefor the knight to me. +That I have aught e'er spoken / to make her sad of mood, +Vengeance well hath taken / on me the valiant knight and good." + +895 + +"In the days hereafter shall ye / be reconciled full well. +Kriemhild, beloved lady, / to me shalt thou tell +How that in Siegfried's person / I may service do to thee. +That do I gladly, lady, / and unto none more willingly." + +896 + +"No longer were I fearful," / spake his noble wife, +"That e'er in battle any / should take from him his life, +Would he but cease to follow / his high undaunted mood: +Secure were then forever / the thane full valiant and good." + +897 + +"Lady," spake then Hagen, / "an hast thou e'er a fear +That hostile blade should pierce him, / now shalt thou give to hear +With what arts of cunning / I may the same prevent. +On horse and foot to guard him / shall ever be my fair intent." + +898 + +She spake: "Of my kin art thou, / as I eke of thine. +In truth to thee commended / be then dear spouse of mine, +That him well thou guardest / whom full dear I hold." +She told to him a story / 'twere better had she left untold. + +899 + +She spake: "A valorous husband / is mine, and doughty too. +When he the worm-like dragon / by the mountain slew, +In its blood the stately / knight himself then bathed, +Since when from cutting weapons / in battle is he all unscathed. + +900 + +"Nathless my heart is troubled / when he in fight doth stand, +And full many a spear-shaft / is hurled by hero's hand, +Lest that I a husband / full dear should see no more. +Alack! How oft for Siegfried / must I sit in sorrow sore! + +901 + +"On thy good-will I rest me, / dear friend, to tell to thee, +And that thy faith thou fully / provest now to me, +Where that my spouse may smitten / be by hand of foe. +This I now shall tell thee, / and on thy honor this I do. + +902 + +"When from the wounded dragon / reeking flowed the blood, +And therein did bathe him / the valiant knight and good, +Fell down between his shoulders / full broad a linden leaf. +There may he be smitten; / 'tis cause to me of mickle grief.' + +903 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Upon his tunic sew +Thou a little token. / Thereby shall I know +Where I may protect him / when in the fight we strain." +She weened to save the hero, / yet wrought she nothing save his bane. + +904 + +She spake: "All fine and silken / upon his coat I'll sew +A little cross full secret. / There, doughty thane, shalt thou +From my knight ward danger / when battle rageth sore, +And when amid the turmoil / he stands his enemies before." + +905 + +"That will I do," quoth Hagen, / "lady full dear to me." +Then weened eke the lady / it should his vantage be, +But there alone did Kriemhild / her own good knight betray. +Leave of her took Hagen, / and joyously he went away. + +906 + +The followers of the monarch / were all of merry mood. +I ween that knight thereafter / never any could +Of treachery be guilty / such as then was he +When that Queen Kriemhild / did rest on his fidelity. + +907 + +With his men a thousand / upon the following day +Rode thence Sir Siegfried / full joyously away. +He weened he should take vengeance / for harm his friends did bear. +That he might view the tunic / Hagen rode to him full near. + +908 + +When he had viewed the token / sent Hagen thence away +Two of his men in secret / who did other tidings say: +How that King Gunther's country / had nothing now to fear +And that unto the monarch / had sent them royal Luedeger. + +909 + +'Twas little joy to Siegfried / that he must turn again +Ere for the hostile menace / vengeance he had ta'en. +In sooth the men of Gunther / could scarce his purpose bend. +Then rode he to the monarch, / who thus began his thanks to lend: + +910 + +"Now God reward thee for it, / my good friend Siegfried, +That thou with mind so willing / hast holpen me in need. +That shall I e'er repay thee, / as I may do of right. +To thee before all other / friends do I my service plight. + +911 + +"Now that from battle-journey / free we are once more, +So will I ride a-hunting / the wild bear and the boar +Away to the Vosges forest, / as I full oft have done." +The same had counselled Hagen, / the full dark and faithless man. + +912 + +"To all my guests here with me / shall now be told +That we ride forth at daybreak: / themselves shall ready hold, +Who will join the hunting; / will any here remain +For pastime with fair ladies, / the thing behold I eke full fain." + +913 + +Then outspake Sir Siegfried / as in manner due: +"If that thou rid'st a-hunting, / go I gladly too. +A huntsman shalt thou grant me / and good hound beside +That shall the game discover; / so with thee to the green I'll ride." + +914 + +Straightway spake the monarch: / "Wilt thou but one alone? +And wilt thou, four I'll grant thee, / to whom full well is known +The forest with the runways / where most the game doth stray, +And who unto the camp-fires / will help thee back to find thy way." + +915 + +Unto his spouse then rode he, / the gallant knight and bold. +Full soon thereafter Hagen / unto the king had told +How he within his power / would have the noble thane: +May deed so dark and faithless / ne'er by knight be done again! + + + + +SIXTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegfried was slain + +916 + +Gunther and Hagen, / the knights full keen, +Proposed with evil forethought / a hunting in the green: +The boar within the forest / they'd chase with pointed spear, +And shaggy bear and bison. / --What sport to valiant men more dear? + +917 + +With them rode also Siegfried / happy and light of heart: +Their load of rich refreshments / was made in goodly part. +Where a spring ran cooling / they took from him his life, +Whereto in chief had urged them / Brunhild, royal Gunther's wife. + +918 + +Then went the valiant Siegfried / where he Kriemhild found; +Rich hunting-dress was laden / and now stood ready bound +For him and his companions / across the Rhine to go. +Than this a sadder hour / nevermore could Kriemhild know. + +919 + +The spouse he loved so dearly / upon the mouth he kissed. +"God grant that well I find thee / again, if so He list, +And thine own eyes to see me. / 'Mid kin that hold thee dear +May now the time go gently, / the while I am no longer near." + +920 + +Then thought she of the story / --but silence must she keep-- +Whereof once Hagen asked her: / then began to weep +The princess high and noble / that ever she was born, +And wept with tears unceasing / the valiant Siegfried's wife forlorn. + +921 + +She spake unto her husband: / "Let now this hunting be. +I dreamt this night of evil, / how wild boars hunted thee, +Two wild boars o'er the meadow, / wherefrom the flowers grew red. +That I do weep so sorely / have I poor woman direst need. + +922 + +"Yea, do I fear, Sir Siegfried, / something treacherous, +If perchance have any / of those been wronged by us +Who might yet be able / to vent their enmity. +Tarry thou here, Sir Siegfried: / let that my faithful counsel be." + +923 + +Quoth he: "I come, dear lady, / when some short days are flown. +Of foes who bear us hatred / here know I never one. +All of thine own kindred / are gracious unto me, +Nor know I aught of reason / why they should other-minded be." + +924 + +"But nay, beloved Siegfried, / thy death I fear 'twill prove. +This night I dreamt misfortune, / how o'er thee from above +Down there fell two mountains: / I never saw thee more. +And wilt thou now go from me, / that must grieve my heart full sore." + +925 + +The lady rich in virtue / within his arms he pressed, +And with loving kisses / her fair form caressed. +From her thence he parted / ere long time was o'er: +Alas for her, she saw him / alive thereafter nevermore. + +926 + +Then rode from thence the hunters / deep within a wold +In search of pleasant pastime. / Full many a rider bold +Followed after Gunther / in his stately train. +Gernot and Giselher, / --at home the knights did both remain. + +927 + +Went many a horse well laden / before them o'er the Rhine, +That for the huntsmen carried / store of bread and wine, +Meat along with fishes / and other victualling, +The which upon his table / were fitting for so high a king. + +928 + +Then bade they make encampment / before the forest green +Where game was like to issue, / those hunters proud and keen, +Who there would join in hunting, / on a meadow wide that spread. +Thither also was come Siegfried: / the same unto the king was said. + +929 + +By the merry huntsmen / soon were watched complete +At every point the runways. / The company then did greet +Siegfried the keen and doughty: / "Who now within the green +Unto the game shall guide us, / ye warriors so bold and keen?" + +930 + +"Now part we from each other," / answered Hagen then, +"Ere that the hunting / we do here begin! +Thereby may be apparent / to my masters and to me +Who on this forest journey / of the hunters best may be. + +931 + +"Let then hounds and huntsmen / be ta'en in equal share, +That wheresoever any / would go, there let him fare. +Who then is first in hunting / shall have our thanks this day." +Not longer there together / did the merry hunters stay. + +932 + +Thereto quoth Sir Siegfried: / "Of dogs have I no need, +More than one hound only / of trusty hunting breed +For scenting well the runway / of wild beast through the brake. +And now the chase begin we!" / --so the spouse of Kriemhild spake. + +933 + +Then took a practised hunter / a good tracking-hound, +That did bring them where they / game in plenty found, +Nor kept them long awaiting. / Whate'er did spring from lair +Pursued the merry huntsmen, / as still good hunters everywhere. + +934 + +As many as the hound started / slew with mighty hand +Siegfried the full doughty / hero of Netherland. +So swiftly went his charger / that none could him outrun; +And praise before all others / soon he in the hunting won. + +935 + +He was in every feature / a valiant knight and true. +The first within the forest / that with his hand he slew +Was a half-grown wild-boar / that he smote to ground; +Thereafter he full quickly / a wild and mighty lion found. + +936 + +When it the hound had started, / with bow he shot it dead, +Wherewith a pointed arrow / he had so swiftly sped +That the lion after / could forward spring but thrice. +All they that hunted with him / cried Siegfried's praise with merry + voice. + +937 + +Soon fell a prey unto him / an elk and bison more, +A giant stag he slew him / and huge ure-oxen four. +His steed bore him so swiftly / that none could him outrun; +Of stag or hind encountered / scarce could there escape him one. + +938 + +A boar full huge and bristling / soon was likewise found, +And when the same bethought him / to flee before the hound, +Came quick again the master / and stood athwart his path. +The boar upon the hero / full charged straightway in mickle wrath. + +939 + +Then the spouse of Kriemhild, / with sword the boar he slew, +A thing that scarce another / hunter had dared to do. +When he thus had felled him / they lashed again the hound, +And soon his hunting prowess / was known to all the people round. + +940 + +Then spake to him his huntsmen: / "If that the thing may be, +So let some part, Sir Siegfried, / of the forest game go free; +To-day thou makest empty / hillside and forest wild." +Thereat in merry humor / the thane so keen and valiant smiled. + +941 + +Then they heard on all sides / the din, from many a hound +And huntsmen eke the clamor / so great was heard around +That back did come the answer / from hill and forest tree-- +Of hounds had four-and-twenty / packs been set by hunter free. + +942 + +Full many a forest denizen / from life was doomed to part. +Each of all the hunters / thereon had set his heart, +To win the prize in hunting. / But such could never be, +When they the doughty Siegfried / at the camping-place did see. + +943 + +Now the chase was ended, / --and yet complete 'twas not. +All they to camp who wended / with them thither brought +Skin of full many an animal / and of game good store. +Heigho! unto the table / how much the king's attendants bore! + +944 + +Then bade the king the noble / hunters all to warn +That he would take refreshment, / and loud a hunting-horn +In one long blast was winded: / to all was known thereby +That the noble monarch / at camp did wait their company. + +945 + +Spake one of Siegfried's huntsmen: / "Master, I do know +By blast of horn resounding / that we now shall go +Unto the place of meeting; / thereto I'll make reply." +Then for the merry hunters / blew the horn right lustily. + +946 + +Then spake Sir Siegfried: / "Now leave we eke the green." +His charger bore him smoothly, / and followed huntsmen keen. +With their rout they started / a beast of savage kind, +That was a bear untamed. / Then spake the knight to those behind + +947 + +"For our merry party / some sport will I devise. +Let slip the hound then straightway, / a bear now meets my eyes, +And with us shall he thither / unto the camp-fire fare. +Full rapid must his flight be / shall he our company forbear." + +948 + +From leash the hound was loosened, / the bear sprang through the brake, +When that the spouse of Kriemhild / did wish him to o'ertake. +He sought a pathless thicket, / but yet it could not be, +As bruin fondly hoped it, / that from the hunter he was free. + +949 + +Then from his horse alighted / the knight of spirit high, +And gan a running after. / Bruin all unguardedly +Was ta'en, and could escape not. / Him caught straightway the knight, +And soon all unwounded / had him bound in fetters tight. + +950 + +Nor claws nor teeth availed him / for aught of injury, +But bound he was to saddle. / Then mounted speedily +The knight, and to the camp-fire / in right merry way +For pastime led he bruin, / the hero valiant and gay. + +951 + +In what manner stately / unto the camp he rode! +He bore a spear full mickle, / great of strength and broad. +A sword all ornamented / hung down unto his spur, +And wrought of gold all ruddy / at side a glittering horn he wore. + +952 + +Of richer hunting-garments / heard I ne'er tell before. +Black was the silken tunic / that the rider wore, +And cap of costly sable / did crown the gallant knight. +Heigho, and how his quiver / with well-wrought hands was rich bedight! + +953 + +A skin of gleaming panther / covered the quiver o'er, +Prized for its pleasant odor. / Eke a bow he bore, +The which to draw if ever / had wished another man, +A lever he had needed: / such power had Siegfried alone. + +954 + +Of fur of costly otter / his mantle was complete, +With other skins embroidered / from head unto the feet. +And 'mid the fur all shining, / full many a golden seam +On both sides of the valiant / huntsman saw ye brightly gleam. + +955 + +Balmung, a goodly weapon / broad, he also wore, +That was so sharp at edges / that it ne'er forbore +To cleave when swung on helmet: / blade it was full good. +Stately was the huntsman / as there with merry heart he rode. + +956 + +If that complete the story / to you I shall unfold, +Full many a goodly arrow / did his rich quiver hold +Whereof were gold the sockets, / and heads a hand-breadth each. +In sooth was doomed to perish / whate'er in flight the same did reach. + +957 + +Pricking like goodly huntsman / the noble knight did ride +When him the men of Gunther / coming thither spied. +They hasted out to meet him / and took from him his steed, +As bruin great and mighty / by the saddle he did lead. + +958 + +When he from horse alighted / he loosed him every band +From foot and eke from muzzle. / Straight on every hand +Began the dogs a howling / when they beheld the bear. +Bruin would to the forest: / among the men was mickle stir. + +959 + +Amid the clamor bruin / through the camp-fires sped: +Heigho, how the servants / away before him fled! +O'erturned was many a kettle / and flaming brands did fly: +Heigho, what goodly victuals / did scattered in the ashes lie! + +960 + +Then sprang from out the saddle / knights and serving-men. +The bear was wild careering: / the king bade loosen then +All the dogs that fastened / within their leashes lay. +If this thing well had ended, / then had there passed a merry day. + +961 + +Not longer then they waited / but with bow and eke with spear +Hasted the nimble hunters / to pursue the bear, +Yet none might shoot upon him / for all the dogs around. +Such clamor was of voices / that all the mountain did resound. + +962 + +When by the dogs pursued / the bear away did run, +None there that could o'ertake him / but Siegfried alone. +With his sword he came upon him / and killed him at a blow, +And back unto the camp-fire / bearing bruin they did go. + +963 + +Then spake who there had seen it, / he was a man of might. +Soon to the table bade they / come each noble knight, +And on a smiling meadow / the noble company sat. +Heigho, with what rare victuals / did they upon the huntsmen wait! + +964 + +Ne'er appeared a butler / wine for them to pour. +Than they good knights were never / better served before, +And had there not in secret / been lurking treachery, +Then were the entertainers / from every cause of cavil free. + +965 + +Then spake Sir Siegfried: / "A wonder 'tis to me, +Since that from the kitchen / so full supplied are we, +Why to us the butlers / of wine bring not like store: +If such the huntsman's service / a huntsman reckon me no more. + +966 + +"Meseems I yet did merit / some share of courtesy." +The king who sat at table / spake then in treachery: +"Gladly shall be amended / wherein we're guilty so. +The fault it is of Hagen, / he'd willing see us thirsting go." + +967 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Good master, hear me say, +I weened for this our hunting / we did go to-day +Unto the Spessart forest: / the wine I thither sent. +Go we to-day a-thirsting, / I'll later be more provident." + +968 + +Thereto replied Sir Siegfried: / "Small merit here is thine. +Good seven horses laden / with mead and sparkling wine +Should hither have been conducted. / If aught the same denied, +Then should our place of meeting / have nearer been the Rhine beside." + +969 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Ye noble knights and bold, +I know here nigh unto us / a spring that's flowing cold. +Be then your wrath appeased, / and let us thither go." +Through that same wicked counsel / came many a thane to grievous woe. + +970 + +Sore was the noble Siegfried / with the pangs of thirst: +To bid them rise from table / was he thus the first. +He would along the hillside / unto the fountain go: +In sooth they showed them traitors, / those knights who there did + counsel so. + +971 + +On wagons hence to carry / the game they gave command +Which had that day been slaughtered / by Siegfried's doughty hand. +He'd carried off the honors, / all who had seen did say. +Hagen his faith with Siegfried / soon did break in grievous way. + +972 + +When now they would go thither / to where the linden spread, +Spake of Tronje Hagen: / "To me hath oft been said, +That none could follow after / Kriemhild's nimble knight +Or vie with him in running: / would that he'd prove it to our sight!" + +973 + +Then spake of Netherland / bold Siegfried speedily: +"That may ye well have proof of, / will ye but run with me +In contest to the fountain. / When that the same be done, +To him be given honor / who the race hath fairly won." + +974 + +"Now surely make we trial," / quoth Hagen the thane. +Thereto the doughty Siegfried: / "I too will give you gain, +Afore your feet at starting / to lay me in the grass." +When that he had heard it, / thereat how joyous Gunther was! + +975 + +And spake again the warrior: / "And ye shall further hear: +All my clothing likewise / will I upon me wear, +The spear and shield full heavy / and hunting-dress I'll don." +His sword as well as quiver / had he full quickly girded on. + +976 + +Doffed they their apparel / and aside they laid it then: +Clothed in white shirts only / saw you there the twain. +Like unto two wild panthers / they coursed across the green: +Yet first beside the fountain / was the valiant Siegfried seen. + +977 + +No man in feats of valor / who with him had vied. +The sword he soon ungirded / and quiver laid aside, +The mighty spear he leaned / against the linden-tree: +Beside the running fountain / stood the knight stately to see. + +978 + +To Siegfried naught was lacking / that doth good knight adorn. +Down the shield then laid he / where did flow the burn, +Yet howsoe'er he thirsted / no whit the hero drank +Before had drunk the monarch: / therefor he earned but evil thank. + +979 + +There where ran clear the water / and cool from out the spring, +Down to it did bend him / Gunther the king. +And when his thirst was quenched / rose he from thence again: +Eke the valiant Siegfried, / how glad had he done likewise then. + +980 + +For his courtesy he suffered. / Where bow and sword there lay, +Both did carry Hagen / from him thence away, +And again sprang quickly thither / where the spear did stand: +And for a cross the tunic / of the valiant knight he scanned. + +981 + +As there the noble Siegfried / to drink o'er fountain bent, +Through the cross he pierced him, / that from the wound was sent +The blood nigh to bespatter / the tunic Hagen wore. +By hand of knight such evil / deed shall wrought be nevermore. + +982 + +The spear he left projecting / where it had pierced the heart. +In terror as that moment / did Hagen never start +In flight from any warrior / he ever yet had found. +Soon as the noble Siegfried / within him felt the mighty wound, + +983 + +Raging the knight full doughty / up from the fountain sprang, +The while from 'twixt his shoulders / stood out a spearshaft long. +The prince weened to find there / his bow or his sword: +Then in sooth had Hagen / found the traitor's meet reward. + +984 + +When from the sorely wounded / knight his sword was gone, +Then had he naught to 'venge him / but his shield alone. +This snatched he from the fountain / and Hagen rushed upon, +And not at all escape him / could the royal Gunther's man. + +985 + +Though he nigh to death was wounded / he yet such might did wield +That out in all directions / flew from off the shield +Precious stones a many: / the shield he clave in twain. +Thus vengeance fain had taken / upon his foe the stately thane. + +986 + +Beneath his hand must Hagen / stagger and fall to ground. +So swift the blow he dealt him, / the meadow did resound. +Had sword in hand been swinging, / Hagen had had his meed, +So sorely raged he stricken: / to rage in sooth was mickle need. + +987 + +Faded from cheek was color, / no longer could he stand, +And all his might of body / soon complete had waned, +As did a deathly pallor / over his visage creep. +Full many a fairest lady / for the knight anon must weep. + +988 + +So sank amid the flowers / Kriemhild's noble knight, +While from his wound flowed thickly / the blood before the sight. +Then gan he reviling / --for dire was his need-- +Who had thus encompassed / his death by this same faithless deed. + +989 + +Then spake the sorely wounded: / "O ye base cowards twain, +Doth then my service merit / that me ye thus have slain? +To you I e'er was faithful / and so am I repaid. +Alas, upon your kindred / now have ye shame eternal laid. + +990 + +"By this deed dishonored / hereafter evermore +Are their generations. / Your anger all too sore +Have ye now thus vented / and vengeance ta'en on me. +With shame henceforth be parted / from all good knights' company." + +991 + +All the hunters hastened / where he stricken lay, +It was in sooth for many / of them a joyless day. +Had any aught of honor, / he mourned that day, I ween, +And well the same did merit / the knight high-spirited and keen. + +992 + +As there the king of Burgundy / mourned that he should die, +Spake the knight sore wounded: / "To weep o'er injury, +Who hath wrought the evil / hath smallest need, I trow. +Reviling doth he merit, / and weeping may he well forego." + +993 + +Thereto quoth grim Hagen: / "Ye mourn, I know not why: +This same day hath ended / all our anxiety. +Few shall we find henceforward / for fear will give us need, +And well is me that from his / mastery we thus are freed." + +994 + +"Light thing is now thy vaunting," / did Siegfried then reply. +"Had I e'er bethought me / of this thy infamy +Well had I preserved / 'gainst all thy hate my life. +Me rueth naught so sorely / as Lady Kriemhild my wife. + +995 + +"Now may God have mercy / that to me a son was born, +That him alack!, the people / in times to come shall spurn, +That those he nameth kinsmen / have done the murderer's deed. +An had I breath," spake Siegfried, / "to mourn o'er this I well had + need." + +996 + +Then spake, in anguish praying, / the hero doomed to die: +"An wilt thou, king, to any / yet not good faith deny, +In all the world to any, / to thee commended be +And to thy loving mercy / the spouse erstwhile was wed to me. + +997 + +"Let it be her good fortune / that she thy sister is: +By all the princely virtues, / I beg thee pledge me this. +For me long time my father / and men henceforth must wait: +Upon a spouse was never / wrought, as mine, a wrong so great." + +998 + +All around the flowers / were wetted with the blood +As there with death he struggled. / Yet not for long he could, +Because the deadly weapon / had cut him all too sore: +And soon the keen and noble / knight was doomed to speak no more. + +999 + +When the lords perceived / how that the knight was dead, +Upon a shield they laid him / that was of gold full red, +And counsel took together / how of the thing should naught +Be known, but held in secret / that Hagen the deed had wrought. + +1000 + +Then spake of them a many: / "This is an evil day. +Now shall ye all conceal it / and all alike shall say, +When as Kriemhild's husband / the dark forest through +Rode alone a-hunting, / him the hand of robber slew." + +1001 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Myself will bring him home. +In sooth I reck but little / if to her ears it come, +Who my Lady Brunhild / herself hath grieved so sore. +It maketh me small worry, / an if she weep for evermore." + + + + +SEVENTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How Kriemhild mourned for Siegfried, and How he was Buried + +1002 + +There till the night they tarried / and o'er the Rhine they went. +By knights in chase might never / more evil day be spent; +For the game that there they hunted / wept many a noble maid. +In sooth by many a valiant / warrior must it since be paid. + +1003 + +Of humor fierce and wanton / list now and ye shall hear, +And eke of direst vengeance. / Hagen bade to bear +Siegfried thus lifeless, / of the Nibelung country, +Unto a castle dwelling / where Lady Kriemhild found might be. + +1004 + +He bade in secret manner / to lay him there before +Where she should surely find him / when she from out the door +Should pass to matins early, / ere that had come the day. +In sooth did Lady Kriemhild / full seldom fail the hour to pray. + +1005 + +When, as was wont, in minster / the bell to worship bade, +Kriemhild, fair lady, wakened / from slumber many a maid: +A light she bade them bring her / and eke her dress to wear. +Then hither came a chamberlain / who Siegfried's corse found waiting + there. + +1006 + +He saw him red and bloody, / all wet his clothing too. +That it was his master, / in sooth no whit he knew. +On unto the chamber / the light in hand he bore, +Whereby the Lady Kriemhild / did learn what brought her grief full sore. + +1007 + +When she with train of ladies / would to the minster go, +Then spake the chamberlain: / "Pause, I pray thee now: +Here before thy dwelling / a noble knight lies slain." +Thereat gan Lady Kriemhild / in grief unmeasured sore to plain. + +1008 + +Ere yet that 'twas her husband / she did rightly find, +Had she Hagen's question / begun to call to mind, +How might he protect him: / then first did break her heart, +For all her joy in living / did with his death from her depart. + +1009 + +Unto the earth then sank she / ere she a word did say, +And reft of all her pleasure / there the fair lady lay. +Soon had Kriemhild's sorrow / all measure passed beyond: +She shrieked, when past the swooning, / that did the chamber all resound. + +1010 + +Then spake her attendants: / "What if't a stranger were?" +From out her mouth the heart-blood / did spring from anguish sore. +Then spake she: "It is Siegfried / my husband, other none: +This thing hath counselled Brunhild, / and Hagen's hand the deed hath + done." + +1011 + +The lady bade them lead her / where did lie the knight, +And his fair head she raised / with her hand full white. +Red though it was and bloody / she knew him yet straightway, +As all forlorn the hero / of Nibelungenland there lay. + +1012 + +Then cried the queen in anguish, / whose hand such wealth might wield: +"O woe is me for sorrow! / Yet is not thy shield +With blow of sword now battered, / but murdered dost thou lie. +And knew I who hath done it, / by my counsel should he die." + +1013 + +All of her attendants / did weep and wail enow +With their beloved mistress, / for filled they were with woe +For their noble master / whom they should see no more. +For anger of Queen Brunhild / had Hagen wrought revenge full sore. + +1014 + +Then spake Kriemhild sorrowing: / "Hence now the message take, +And all the men of Siegfried / shall ye straightway awake. +Unto Siegmund likewise / tell ye my sorrow deep, +If that he will help me / for the doughty Siegfried weep." + +1015 + +Then ran straightway a messenger / and soon he found at hand, +Siegfried's valiant warriors / of Nibelungenland. +Of joy he all bereft him / with tale that he did bear, +Nor would they aught believe it / till sound of weeping met their ear. + +1016 + +The messenger came eke quickly / where the king did lie, +Yet closed was not in sleeping / the monarch Siegmund's eye: +I ween his heart did tell him / the thing that there had been, +And that his dear son living / might nevermore by him be seen. + +1017 + +"Awake, awake, Lord Siegmund. / Hither hath sent for thee +Kriemhild my mistress. / A wrong now beareth she, +A grief that 'fore all others / unto her heart doth go: +To mourn it shalt thou help her, / for sorely hast thou need thereto." + +1018 + +Up raised himself then Siegmund. / He spake: "What may it be +Of wrong that grieveth Kriemhild, / as thou hast told to me?" +The messenger spake weeping: / "Now may I naught withhold: +Know thou that of Netherland / Siegfried brave lies slain and cold." + +1019 + +Thereto gave answer Siegmund: / "Let now such mocking be +And tale of such ill tidings / --an thou regardest me-- +As that thou say'st to any / now he lieth slain: +An were it so, I never / unto my end might cease to plain." + +1020 + +"Wilt thou now believe not / the tidings that I bear, +So may'st thyself the Lady / Kriemhild weeping hear, +And all of her attendants, / that Siegfried lieth dead." +With terror filled was Siegmund: / whereof in very sooth was need. + +1021 + +He and his men a hundred / from their beds they sprang, +Then snatched in hand full quickly / swords both sharp and long, +And toward the sound of weeping / in sorrow sore did speed. +There came a thousand warriors / eke of the valiant knight Siegfried. + +1022 + +When they heard the women weeping / in such sore distress +Thought some, strict custom keeping, / we first must don our dress. +In sooth for very sorrow / their wits no more had they, +For on their hearts a burden / of grief full deep and heavy lay. + +1023 + +Then came the monarch Siegmund / where he Kriemhild espied. +He spake: "Alack that ever / to this country I did ride! +Who in such wondrous manner, / and while good friends are near, +Hath of my child bereft me / and thee of spouse thou hold'st so dear?" + +1024 + +"Ah, might I him discover," / spake the lady high, +"Evermore would mercy / I to him deny. +Such meed of vengeance should he / at my hands receive +That all who call him kinsman / reason good should have to grieve." + +1025 + +Siegmund the monarch / in arms the knight did press, +And of his friends there gathered / so great was the distress, +That from the mighty wailing / palace and wide hall +And Worms the city likewise / with sound of woe re-echoed all. + +1026 + +None was who aught might comfort / the wife of Siegfried there. +They drew the knight's attire / from off his body fair, +From wounds the blood, too, washed they / and laid him on the bier. +Then from all his people / a mighty wailing might ye hear. + +1027 + +Then outspake his warriors / of Nibelungenland: +"Until he be avenged / rest shall not our hand. +He is within this castle / who the deed hath done." +Then rushed to find their weapons / Siegfried's warriors every one. + +1028 + +The knights of chosen valor / with shields did thither throng, +Eleven hundred warriors, / that did to train belong +Of Siegmund the monarch. / That his son lay dead, +Would he wreak dire vengeance, / whereof in very sooth was need. + +1029 + +Yet knew they not whom should they / beset in battle then, +If it were not Gunther / and with him his men +With whom their lord Siegfried / unto the hunting rode. +Yet filled with fear was Kriemhild / when she beheld how armed they + stood. + +1030 + +How great soe'er her sorrow / and stern the grief she bore, +Yet for the Nibelungen / feared she death full sore +From her brother's warriors, / and bade them hold their wrath. +She gave them kindly warning / as friend to friend beloved doth. + +1031 + +Then spake she rich in sorrow: / "What thing beginnest thou, +Good my lord Siegmund? / This case thou dost not know. +In sooth hath here King Gunther / so many a valiant knight, +Lost are ye all together, / will ye the thanes withstand in fight." + +1032 + +With shields upraised they ready / for the fight did stand. +But the queen full noble / did straightway give command +To those high knights, and prayed them, / their purpose to give o'er. +That she might not dissuade them, / in sooth to her was sorrow sore. + +1033 + +Spake she thus: "Lord Siegmund, / thou shalt this thing let be +Until more fitting season. / Seek will I e'er with thee +Full to avenge my husband. / Who him from me hath ta'en, +An I shall know him guilty, / in me shall surely find his bane. + +1034 + +"Of warriors proud and mighty / are many here by Rhine, +Therefore will I advise not / the struggle to begin. +For one that we can muster / good thirty men have they; +As unto us their dealing, / God them requite in equal way. + +1035 + +"Here shall ye bide with me / and help my grief to bear; +Soon as dawns the morning, / ye noble knights and rare, +Help me my loved husband / prepare for burial." +"That shall be done full willing," / spake the doughty warriors all. + +1036 + +To you could never any / full the wonder say, +Of knights and noble ladies, / so full of grief were they, +That the sound of wailing / through the town was heard afar, +Whereat the noble burghers / hastily did gather there. + +1037 + +With the guests they mourned together, / for sore they grieved as well. +What was the guilt of Siegfried / none to them might tell, +Wherefore the knight so noble / thus his life should lose. +Then wept with the high ladies / many a worthy burgher's spouse. + +1038 + +Smiths they bade a casket / work full hastily +All of gold and silver / that great and strong should be. +They bade them fast to weld it / with bands of steel full good. +Then saw ye all the people / stand right sorrowful of mood. + +1039 + +Now the night was over, / for day, they said, drew near. +Then bade the noble lady / unto the minster bear +Siegfried her lord full loved / for whom she mourned so. +Whoe'er was friend unto him, / him saw ye weeping thither go. + +1040 + +As they brought him to the minster / bells full many rung. +On every hand then heard ye / how priests did chant their song. +Thither with his followers / came Gunther the king +And eke the grim knight Hagen / where was sound of sorrowing. + +1041 + +He spake: "Full loving sister, / alack for grief to thee, +And that from such great evil / spared we might not be! +Henceforth must we ever / mourn for Siegfried's sake." +"That do ye without reason," / full of woe the lady spake. + +1042 + +"If that ye grieved for it, / befallen were it not. +For say I may full truly, / me had ye all forgot +There where I thus was parted / from my husband dear. +Would it God," spake Kriemhild, / "that done unto myself it were!" + +1043 + +Fast they yet denied it. / Kriemhild spake again: +"If any speak him guiltless, / let here be seen full plain. +Unto the bier now shall he / before the people go; +Thus the truth full quickly / may we in this manner know." + +1044 + +It is a passing wonder / that yet full oft is seen, +Where blood-bespotted slayer / beside slain corse hath been, +That from the wounds come blood-drops, / as here it eke befell. +Thereby the guilt of Hagen / might they now full plainly tell. + +1045 + +Now ran the wounds all bloody /like as they did before. +Who erstwhile wept full sorely / now wept they mickle more. +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "To thee the truth be known: +Slain hath he been by robbers, / nor is this deed by Hagen done." + +1046 + +"Of these same robbers," spake she, / "full well I understand. +God give that yet may vengeance / wreak some friendly hand. +Gunther and Hagen, / yourselves have done this deed." +Then looked for bloody conflict / the valiant thanes that served + Siegfried. + +1047 + +Then spake unto them Kriemhild: / "Now bear with me my need." +Knights twain came likewise hither / and did find him dead,-- +Gernot her brother / and the young Giselher. +With upright hearts then joined they / with the others grief to share. + +1048 + +They mourned for Kriemhild's husband / with hearts all full of woe. +A mass should then be chanted: / to the minster forth did go +Man and child and woman / gathered from every side. +E'en they did likewise mourn him / who little lost that Siegfried died. + +1049 + +Gernot and Giselher spake: / "O Sister dear, +Now comfort thee in sorrow, / for death is ever near. +Amends we'll make unto thee / the while that we shall live." +In the world might never any / unto her a comfort give. + +1050 + +His coffin was made ready / about the middle day. +From off the bier they raised him / whereupon he lay. +But yet would not the lady / let him be laid in grave. +Therefor must all the people / first a mickle trouble have. + +1051 + +In a shroud all silken / they the dead man wound. +I ween that never any / that wept not might be found. +There mourned full of sorrow / Ute the queen full high +And all of her attendants / that such a noble knight did die. + +1052 + +When did hear the people / how they in minster sung, +And that he there lay coffined, / came then a mickle throng: +For his soul's reposing / what offerings they bore! +E'en amid his enemies / found he of good friends a store. + +1053 + +Kriemhild the poor lady / to her attendants spake: +"Let them shun no trouble / to suffer for my sake, +Who to him are friendly-minded / and me in honor hold; +For the soul of Siegfried / meted be to them his gold." + +1054 + +Child so small there was not, / did it but reason have, +But offering carried thither. / Ere he was laid in grave, +More than a hundred masses / upon the day they sung, +Of all the friends of Siegfried / was gathered there a mickle throng. + +1055 + +When were the masses over, / the folk departed soon. +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild: / "Leave ye me not alone +To pass the night in watching / by this chosen thane now dead, +With whose passing from me / all my joy of life hath fled. + +1056 + +"Three days and three nights further / shall he lie on bier, +Until my heart find quiet / that weeps for spouse so dear. +God perchance commandeth / that death eke me do take: +That were for me poor Kriemhild / fit end of all my woe to make." + +1057 + +Then of the town the people / went to their homes again. +Priests and monks yet bade she / longer there remain, +And all the hero's followers / who willing served alway. +They watched a night all gruesome, / and full of toil was eke the day. + +1058 + +Meat and drink forgetting / abode there many a one. +If any were would take it / 'twas unto all made known, +That have they might in plenty: / thus did provide Siegmund. +Then for the Nibelungen / did trouble and sore need abound. + +1059 + +The while the three days lasted / --such the tale we hear-- +All who could join the chanting, / mickle must they bear +There of toil and trouble. / What gifts to them they bore! +Rich were seen full many / who did suffer need before. + +1060 + +As many poor as found they / who themselves had naught, +By them yet an offering / bade they there be brought, +Of gold of Siegfried's treasure. / Though he no more might live, +Yet for his soul's reposing / marks many thousand did they give. + +1061 + +Land of fruitful income / bestowed Kriemhild around, +Wheresoever cloisters / and worthy folk were found. +Silver and apparel / to the poor she gave in store, +And in good manner showed she / that truest love to him she bore. + +1062 + +Upon the third morning / at the mass' tide +Was there beside the minster / filled the church-yard wide +With country-folk a-weeping / that came from far and near: +In death they yet did serve him / as is meet for friend full dear. + +1063 + +And so it hath been told us, / ere these four days were o'er, +Marks full thirty thousand, / yea, in sooth, and more, +For his soul's reposing / to the poor were given there: +The while that lay all broken / his life and eke his body fair. + +1064 + +When ended was the service / and full the masses sung, +In unrestrained sorrow / there the flock did throng. +They bade that from the minster / he to the grave be borne. +Them that fain had kept him / there beheld ye weep and mourn. + +1065 + +Thence full loud lamenting / did the people with him pass. +Unmoved there never any / nor man nor woman was. +Ere that in grave they laid him / chanted they and read. +What host of priests full worthy / at his burial were gathered! + +1066 + +Ere that the wife of Siegfried / was come unto the grave, +With water from the fountain / full oft her face they lave, +So struggled with her sorrow / the faithful lady fair. +Great beyond all measure / was the grief that she did bear. + +1067 + +It was a mickle wonder / that e'er her life she kept. +Many a lady was there / that helped her as she wept. +Then spake the queen full noble: / "Ye men that service owe +To Siegfried, as ye love me, / now to me a mercy show. + +1068 + +"Upon this sorrow grant ye / the little grace to me +That I his shining visage / yet once more may see." +So filled she was with anguish / and so long time she sought, +Perforce they must break open / the casket all so fairly wrought. + +1069 + +Where she did see him lying / they then the lady led. +With hand full white and spotless / raised she his fair head; +Then kissed she there all lifeless / the good and noble knight,-- +And wept so that for sorrow / ran blood from out her eyes so bright. + +1070 + +Mournful was the parting / that then did rend the twain. +Thence away they bore her, / nor might she walk again, +But in a swoon did senseless / the stately lady lie. +In sooth her winsome body / for sorrow sore was like to die. + +1071 + +When they the knight full noble / now in the grave had laid, +Beheld ye every warrior / beyond all measure sad +That with him was come hither / from Nibelung country. +Full seldom joyous-hearted / might ye royal Siegmund see. + +1072 + +And many were among them / that for sorrow great +Till three days were over / did nor drink nor eat. +Yet might they not their bodies / long leave uncared-for so: +For food they turned from mourning / as people still are wont to do. + + + + +EIGHTEENTH ADVENTURE + +How Siegmund fared Home Again + +1073 + +Then went royal Siegmund / where he Kriemhild found. +Unto the queen spake he: / "Home must we now be bound. +We ween that guests unwelcome / here are we by the Rhine. +Kriemhild, beloved lady, / come now to country that is mine. + +1074 + +"Though from us hath been taken / by foul traitor's hand +Thy good spouse and noble / here in stranger land, +Thine be it not to suffer: / good friend thou hast in me +For sake of son beloved: / thereof shalt thou undoubting be. + +1075 + +"Eke shalt thou have, good lady, / all the power to hold, +The which erstwhile hath shown thee / Siegfried the thane full bold. +The land and the crown likewise, / be they thine own to call, +And gladly eke shall serve thee / Siegfried's doughty warriors all." + +1076 + +Then did they tell the servants / that they thence would ride, +And straight to fetch the horses / these obedient hied. +'Mid such as so did hate them / it grieved them more to stay: +Ladies high and maidens / were bidden dress them for the way. + +1077 + +When that for royal Siegmund / stood ready horse and man, +Her kinsmen Lady Kriemhild / to beseech began +That she from her mother / would still forbear to go. +Then spake the lofty lady: / "That might hardly yet be so. + +1078 + +"How might I for ever / look with eyes upon +Him that to me, poor woman, / such evil thing hath done?" +Then spake the youthful Giselher: / "Sister to me full dear, +By thy goodness shalt thou / tarry with thy mother here." + +1079 + +"Who in this wise have harmed thee / and so grieved thy heart, +Thyself may'st spurn their service: / of what is mine take part." +Unto the knight she answered: / "Such thing may never be. +For die I must for sorrow / when that Hagen I should see." + +1080 + +"From need thereof I'll save thee, / sister full dear to me, +For with thy brother Giselher / shalt thou ever be. +I'll help to still thy sorrow / that thy husband lieth dead." +Then spake she sorrow-stricken: / "Thereof in sooth had Kriemhild need." + +1081 + +When that the youthful Giselher / such kindly offer made, +Then her mother Ute / and Gernot likewise prayed, +And all her faithful kinsmen, / that she would tarry there: +For that in Siegfried's country / but few of her own blood there were. + +1082 + +"To thee they all are strangers," / did Gernot further say. +Nor lived yet man so mighty / but dead at last he lay. +Bethink thee that, dear sister, / in comfort of thy mood. +Stay thou amid thy kinsmen, / I counsel truly for thy good." + +1083 + +To Giselher she promised / that she would tarry there. +For the men of Siegmund / the horses ready were, +When they thence would journey / to the Nibelungen land: +On carrying-horses laden / the knights' attire did ready stand. + +1084 + +Went the royal Siegmund / unto Kriemhild then; +He spake unto the lady: / "Now do Siegfried's men +Await thee by the horses. / Straight shall we hence away, +For 'mid the men of Burgundy / unwilling would I longer stay." + +1085 + +Then spake the Lady Kriemhild: / "My friends have counselled me, +That by the love I bear them, / here my home shall be, +For that no kinsmen have I / in the Nibelungen land." +Grieved full sore was Siegmund / when he did Kriemhild understand. + +1086 + +Then spake the royal Siegmund: / "To such give not thine ear, +A queen 'mid all my kinsmen, / thou a crown shalt wear +And wield as lordly power / as e'er till now thou hast. +Nor thou a whit shalt forfeit, / that we the hero thus have lost. + +1087 + +"And journey with us thither, / for child's sake eke of thine: +Him shalt thou never, lady, / an orphan leave to pine. +When hath grown thy son to manhood, / he'll comfort thee thy mood. +Meanwhile shall ready serve thee / many a warrior keen and good." + +1088 + +She spake: "O royal Siegmund, / I may not thither ride, +For I here must tarry, / whate'er shall me betide, +'Mid them that are my kinsmen, / who'll help my grief to share." +The knights had sore disquiet / that such tidings they must hear. + +1089 + +"So might we say full truly," / spake they every one, +"That unto us still greater / evil now were done, +Would'st thou longer tarry / here amid our foes: +In sooth were never journey / of knights to court more full of woes." + +1090 + +"Now may ye free from trouble / in God's protection fare: +I'll bid that trusty escort / shall you have in care +Unto Siegmund's country. / My child full dear to me, +Unto your knights' good mercy / let it well commended be." + +1091 + +When that they well perceived / how she would not depart, +Wept all the men of Siegmund / and sad they were at heart. +In what right heavy sorrow / Siegmund then took leave +Of the Lady Kriemhild! / Full sore thereover must he grieve. + +1092 + +"Woe worth this journey hither," / the lofty monarch spake. +"Henceforth from merry meeting / shall nevermore o'ertake +King or his faithful kinsmen / what here our meed hath been. +Here 'mid the men of Burgundy / may we never be more seen." + +1093 + +Then spake the men of Siegfried / in open words and plain: +"An might we right discover / who our lord hath slain, +Warriors bent on vengeance / shall yet lay waste this ground. +Among his kin in plenty / may doughty foemen be found." + +1094 + +Anon he kissed Kriemhild / and spake sorrowfully, +When she there would tarry, / and he the same did see: +"Now ride we joy-forsaken / home unto our land. +First now what 'tis to sorrow / do I rightly understand." + +1095 + +From Worms away sans escort / unto the Rhine they rode: +I ween that they full surely / did go in such grim mood, +That had against them any / aught of evil dared, +Hand of keen Nibelungen / had known full well their life to guard. + +1096 + +Nor parting hand they offered / to any that were there. +Then might ye see how Gernot / and likewise Giselher +Did give him loving greeting. / That as their very own +They felt the wrong he suffered, / by the courteous knights and brave + was shown. + +1097 + +Then spake in words full kindly / the royal knight Gernot: +"God in heaven knoweth / that of guilt I've naught +In the death of Siegfried, / that e'er I e'en did hear +Who here to him were hostile. / Well may I of thy sorrow share." + +1098 + +An escort safe did furnish / the young knight Giselher: +Forth from out that country / he led them full of care, +The monarch with his warriors, / to Netherland their home. +How joyless is the greeting / as thither to their kin they come! + +1099 + +How fared that folk thereafter, / that can I nowise say. +Here heard ye Kriemhild plaining / as day did follow day, +That none there was to comfort / her heart and sorry mood, +Did Giselher not do it; / he faithful was to her and good. + +1100 + +The while the fair Queen Brunhild / in mood full haughty sat, +And weep howe'er did Kriemhild, / but little recked she that, +Nor whit to her of pity / displayed she evermore. +Anon was Lady Kriemhild / eke cause to her of sorrow sore. + + + + +NINETEENTH ADVENTURE + +How the Nibelungen Hoard was Brought to Worms + +1101 + +When that the noble Kriemhild / thus did widowed stand, +Remained there with his warriors / by her in that land +Eckewart the margrave, / and served her ever true. +And he did help his mistress / oft to mourn his master too. + +1102 + +At Worms a house they built her / the minster high beside, +That was both rich and spacious, / full long and eke full wide, +Wherein with her attendants / joyless did she dwell. +She sought the minster gladly, / --that to do she loved full well. + +1103 + +Seldom undone she left it, / but thither went alway +In sorry mood where buried / her loved husband lay. +God begged she in his mercy / his soul in charge to keep, +And, to the thane right faithful, / for him full often did she weep. + +1104 + +Ute and her attendants / all times a comfort bore, +But yet her heart was stricken / and wounded all so sore +That no whit might avail it / what solace e'er they brought. +For lover taken from her / with such grief her heart was fraught, + +1105 + +As ne'er for spouse beloved / a wife did ever show. +Thereby how high in virtue / she stood ye well might know. +She mourned until her ending / and while did last her life. +Anon a mighty vengeance / wreaked the valiant Siegfried's wife. + +1106 + +And so such load of sorrow / for her dead spouse she bore, +The story sayeth truly, / for years full three or more, +Nor ever unto Gunther / any word spake she, +And meantime eke her enemy / Hagen never might she see. + +1107 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Now seek'st thou such an end, +That unto thee thy sister / be well-disposed friend? +Then Nibelungen treasure / let come to this country: +Thereof thou much might'st win thee, / might Kriemhild friendly-minded + be." + +1108 + +He spake: "Be that our effort. / My brothers' love hath she: +Them shall we beg to win her / that she our friend may be, +And that she gladly see it / that we do share her store." +"I trow it well," spake Hagen, / "may such thing be nevermore." + +1109 + +Then did he Ortwein / unto the court command +And the margrave Gere. / When both were found at hand, +Thither brought they Gernot / and eke young Giselher. +In friendly manner sought they / to win the Lady Kriemhild there. + +1110 + +Then spake of Burgundy / Gernot the warrior strong: +"Lady, the death of Siegfried / thou mournest all too long. +Well will the monarch prove thee / that him he ne'er hath slain. +'Tis heard how that right sorely / thou dost for him unending plain." + +1111 + +She spake: "The king none chargeth: / t'was Hagen's hand that slew. +When Hagen me did question / where might one pierce him through, +How might e'er thought come to me / that hate his heart did bear? +Then 'gainst such thing to guard me," / spake she, "had I ta'en good + care. + +1112 + +"And kept me from betraying / to evil hands his life, +Nor cause of this my weeping / had I his poor lorn wife. +My heart shall hate forever / who this foul deed have done." +And further to entreat her / young Giselher had soon begun. + +1113 + +When that to greet the monarch / a willing mind spake she, +Him soon with noble kinsmen / before her might ye see. +Yet dare might never Hagen / unto her to go: +On her he'd wrought sore evil, / as well his guilty mind did know. + +1114 + +When she no hatred meted / unto Gunther as before, +By Hagen to be greeted / were fitting all the more. +Had but by his counsel / no ill to her been done, +So might he all undaunted / unto Kriemhild have gone. + +1115 + +Nor e'er was peace new offered / kindred friends among +Sealed with tears so many. / She brooded o'er her wrong. +To all she gave her friendship / save to one man alone. +Nor slain her spouse were ever, / were not the deed by Hagen done. + +1116 + +Small time it was thereafter / ere they did bring to pass +That with the Lady Kriemhild / the mighty treasure was, +That from Nibelungen country / she brought the Rhine unto. +It was her bridal portion / and 'twas fairly now her due. + +1117 + +For it did journey thither / Gernot and Giselher. +Warriors eighty hundred / Kriemhild commanded there +That they should go and fetch it / where hidden it did lie, +And where the good thane Alberich / with friends did guard it faithfully. + +1118 + +When saw they coming warriors / from Rhine the hoard to take, +Alberich the full valiant / to his friends in this wise spake: +"We dare not of the treasure / aught from them withhold: +It is her bridal portion, / --thus the noble queen hath told. + +1119 + +"Yet had we never granted," / spake Alberich, "this to do, +But that in evil manner / the sightless mantle too +With the doughty Siegfried / we alike did lose, +The which did wear at all times / the fair Kriemhild's noble spouse. + +1120 + +"Now alas hath Siegfried / had but evil gain +That from us the sightless mantle / the hero thus hath ta'en, +And so hath forced to serve him / all these lands around." +Then went forth the porter / where full soon the keys he found. + +1121 + +There stood before the mountain / ready Kriemhild's men, +And her kinsmen with them. / The treasure bore they then +Down unto the water / where the ships they sought: +To where the Rhine flowed downward / across the waves the hoard they + brought. + +1122 + +Now of the treasure further / may ye a wonder hear: +Heavy wains a dozen / scarce the same might bear +In four days and nights together / from the mountain all away, +E'en did each one of them / thrice the journey make each day. + +1123 + +In it was nothing other / than gold and jewels rare. +And if to every mortal / on earth were dealt a share, +Ne'er 'twould make the treasure / by one mark the less. +Not without good reason / forsooth would Hagen it possess. + +1124 + +The wish-rod lay among them, / of gold a little wand. +Whosoe'er its powers / full might understand, +The same might make him master / o'er all the race of men. +Of Alberich's kin full many / with Gernot returned again. + +1125 + +When they did store the treasure / in King Gunther's land, +And to royal Kriemhild / 'twas given 'neath her hand, +Storing-rooms and towers / could scarce the measure hold. +Nevermore such wonder / might of wealth again be told. + +1126 + +And had it e'en been greater, / yea a thousandfold, +If but again might Kriemhild / safe her Siegfried hold, +Fain were she empty-handed / of all the boundless store. +Spouse than she more faithful / won a hero nevermore. + +1127 + +When now she had the treasure, / she brought into that land +Knights many from far distance. / Yea, dealt the lady's hand +So freely that such bounty / ne'er before was seen. +High in honor held they / for her goodly heart the queen. + +1128 + +Unto both rich and needy / began she so to give +That fearful soon grew Hagen, / if that she would live +Long time in such high power, / lest she of warriors true +Such host might win to serve her, / that cause would be her strength to + rue. + +1129 + +Spake Gunther then: / "The treasure is hers and freedom too. +Wherefore shall I prevent her, / whate'er therewith she do? +Yea, nigh she did her friendship / from me evermore withhold. +Now reck we not who shareth / or her silver or her gold." + +1130 + +Unto the king spake Hagen: / "No man that boasteth wit +Should to any woman / such hoard to hold permit. +By gifts she yet will bring it / that will come the day +When valiant men of Burgundy / rue it with good reason may." + +1131 + +Then spake the monarch Gunther: / "To her an oath I swore, +That I would cause of evil / to her be nevermore, +Whereof henceforth I'll mind me: / sister she is to me." +Then spake further Hagen: / "Let me bear the guilt for thee." + +1132 + +Many they were that kept not / there their plighted word: +From the widow took they / all that mighty hoard: +Every key had Hagen / known to get in hand. +Rage filled her brother Gernot / when he the thing did understand. + +1133 + +Then spake the knight Giselher: / "Hagen here hath wrought +Sore evil to my sister: / permit this thing I'll not. +And were he not my kinsman, / he'd pay it with his life." +Anew did fall aweeping / then the doughty Siegfried's wife. + +1134 + +Then spake the knight Gernot: / "Ere that forever we +Be troubled with this treasure, / let first commanded be +Deep in the Rhine to sink it, / that no man have it more." +In sad manner plaining / Kriemhild stood Giselher before. + +1135 + +She spake: "Beloved brother, / be mindful thou of me: +What life and treasure toucheth / shalt thou my protector be." +Then spake he to the lady: / "That shall sure betide, +When we again come hither: / now called we are away to ride." + +1136 + +The monarch and his kinsmen / rode from out the land, +And in his train the bravest / ye saw on any hand: +Went all save Hagen only, / and there he stayed for hate, +That he did bear to Kriemhild, / and full gladly did he that. + +1137 + +Ere that the mighty monarch / was thither come again, +In that while had Hagen / all that treasure ta'en. +Where Loch is by the river / all in the Rhine sank he. +He weened thereof to profit, / yet such thing might never be. + +1138 + +The royal knights came thither / again with many a man. +Kriemhild with her maidens / and ladies then began +To mourn the wrong they suffered, / that pity was to hear. +Fain had the faithful Giselher / been unto her a comforter. + +1139 + +Then spake they all together: / "Done hath he grievous wrong." +But he the princes' anger / avoided yet so long +At last to win their favor. / They let him live sans scathe. +Then filled thereat was Kriemhild / as ne'er before with mickle wrath. + +1140 + +Ere that of Tronje Hagen / had hidden thus the hoard, +Had they unto each other / given firm plighted word, +That it should lie concealed / while one of them might live. +Thereof anon nor could they / to themselves nor unto other give. + +1141 + +With renewed sorrows / heavy she was of heart +That so her dear-loved husband / perforce from life must part, +And that of wealth they reft her. / Therefor she mourned alway, +Nor ever ceased her plaining / until was come her latest day. + +1142 + +After the death of Siegfried / dwelt she in sorrow then, +--Saith the tale all truly-- / full three years and ten, +Nor in that time did ever / for the knight mourn aught the less. +To him she was right faithful, / must all the folk of her confess. + + + + +TWENTIETH ADVENTURE + +How King Etzel sent to Burgundy for Kriemhild + +1143 + +In that same time when ended / was Lady Helke's life, +And that the monarch Etzel / did seek another wife, +To take a highborn widow / of the land of Burgundy +Hun his friends did counsel: / Lady Kriemhild hight was she. + +1144 + +Since that was ended / the fair Helke's life, +Spake they: "Wilt thou ever / win for thee noble wife, +The highest and the fairest / that ever king did win, +Take to thee this same lady / that doughty Siegfried's spouse hath been." + +1145 + +Then spake the mighty monarch: / "How might that come to pass +Since that I am a heathen, / nor named with sign of cross? +The lady is a Christian, / thereto she'll ne'er agree. +Wrought must be a wonder, / if the thing may ever be." + +1146 + +Then spake again his warriors: / "She yet may do the same. +For sake of thy great power / and thy full lofty name +Shalt thou yet endeavor / such noble wife to gain. +To woo the stately lady / might each monarch high be fain." + +1147 + +Then spake the noble monarch: / "Who is 'mong men of mine, +That knoweth land and people / dwelling far by Rhine?" +Spake then of Bechelaren / the trusty Ruediger: +"I have known from childhood / the noble queen that dwelleth there. + +1148 + +"And Gunther and Gernot, / the noble knights and good, +And hight the third is Giselher: / whatever any should +That standeth high in honor / and virtue, doth each one: +Eke from eld their fathers / have in like noble manner done." + +1149 + +Then spake again Etzel: / "Friend, now shalt thou tell, +If she within my country / crown might wear full well-- +For be she fair of body / as hath been told to me, +My friends for this their counsel / shall ever full requited be." + +1150 + +"She likeneth in beauty / well my high lady, +Helke that was so stately. / Nor forsooth might be +In all this world a fairer / spouse of king soe'er. +Whom taketh she for wooer, / glad of heart and mind he were." + +1151 + +He spake: "Make trial, Ruediger, / as thou hold'st me dear. +And if by Lady Kriemhild / e'er I lie full near, +Therefor will I requite thee / as in best mode I may: +So hast thou then fulfilled / all my wish in fullest way. + +1152 + +"Stores from out my treasure / I'll bid to thee to give, +That thou with thy companions / merry long shalt live, +Of steeds and rich apparel / what thou wilt have to share. +Thereof unto thy journey / I'll bid in measure full prepare." + +1153 + +Thereto did give him answer / the margrave Ruediger: +"Did I thy treasure covet / unworthy thing it were. +Gladly will I thy messenger / be unto the Rhine, +From my own store provided: / all have I e'en from hand of thine." + +1154 + +Then spake the mighty monarch: / "When now wilt thou fare +To seek the lovely lady? / God of thee have care +To keep thee on thy journey / and eke a wife to me. +Therein good fortune help me, / that she to us shall gracious be." + +1155 + +Then again spake Ruediger: / "Ere that this land we quit, +Must we first prepare us / arms and apparel fit, +That we may thus in honor / in royal presence stand. +To the Rhine I'll lead five hundred / warriors, a doughty band. + +1156 + +"Wherever they in Burgundy / me and my men may see, +Shall they all and single / then confess of thee +That ne'er from any monarch / so many warriors went +As now to bear thy message / thou far unto the Rhine hast sent. + +1157 + +"May it not, O mighty monarch, / thee from thy purpose move: +Erstwhile unto Siegfried / she gave her noble love, +Who scion is of Siegmund: / him thou here hast seen. +Worthy highest honor / verily the knight had been." + +1158 + +Then answered him King Etzel: / "Was she the warrior's wife, +So worthy was of honor / the noble prince in life, +That I the royal lady / therefor no whit despise. +'Tis her surpassing beauty / that shall be joy unto mine eyes." + +1159 + +Then further spake the margrave: / "Hear then what I do say: +After days four-and-twenty / shall we from hence away. +Tidings to Gotelinde / I'll send, my spouse full dear, +That I to Lady Kriemhild / myself will be thy messenger." + +1160 + +Away to Bechelaren / sent then Ruediger. +Both sad his spouse and joyous / was the news to hear. +He told how for the monarch / a wife he was to woo: +With love she well remembered / the fair Lady Helke too. + +1161 + +When that the margravine / did the message hear, +In part 'twas sorrow to her, / and weep she must in fear +At having other mistress / than hers had been before. +To think on Lady Helke / did grieve her inmost heart full sore. + +1162 + +Ruediger from Hunland / in seven days did part, +Whereat the monarch Etzel / merry was of heart. +When at Vienna city / all was ready for the way, +To begin the journey / might he longer not delay. + +1163 + +At Bechelaren waited / Gotelinde there, +And eke the young margravine, / daughter of Ruediger, +Was glad at thought her father / and all his men to see. +And many a lovely maiden / looked to the coming joyfully. + +1164 + +Ere that to Bechelaren / rode noble Ruediger +From out Vienna city, / was rich equipment there +For them in fullest measure / on carrying-horses brought, +That went in such wise guarded / that robber hand disturbed them not. + +1165 + +When they at Bechelaren / within the town did stand, +His fellows on the journey / did the host command +To lead to fitting quarters / and tend carefully. +The stately Gotelinde, / glad she was her spouse to see. + +1166 + +Eke his lovely daughter / the youthful margravine,-- +To her had nothing dearer / than his coming been. +The warriors too from Hunland, / what joy for her they make! +With a laughing spirit / to all the noble maiden spake: + +1167 + +"Be now to us right welcome, / my father and all his men." +Fairest thanks on all sides / saw ye offered then +Unto the youthful margravine / by many a valiant knight. +How Ruediger was minded / knew Gotelinde aright. + +1168 + +When then that night she / by Ruediger lay, +Questioned him the margravine / in full loving way, +Wherefore had sent him thither / the king of Hunland. +He spake: "My Lady Gotelinde, / that shalt thou gladly understand. + +1169 + +"My master now hath sent me / to woo him other wife, +Since that by death was ended / the fair Helke's life. +Now will I to Kriemhild / ride unto the Rhine: +She shall here in Hunland / be spouse to him and stately queen." + +1170 + +"God will it," spake Gotelinde, / "and well the same might be, +Since that so high in honor / ever standeth she. +The death of my good mistress / we then may better bear; +Eke might we grant her gladly / among the Huns a crown to wear." + +1171 + +Then spake to her the margrave: / "Thou shalt, dear lady mine, +To them that shall ride with me / thither unto the Rhine, +In right bounteous manner / deal out a goodly share. +Good knights go lighter-hearted / when they well provided fare." + +1172 + +She spake: "None is among them, / an he would take from me, +But I will give whatever / to him may pleasing be, +Ere that ye part thither, / thou and thy good men." +Thereto spake the margrave: / "So dost thou all my wishes then." + +1173 + +Silken stuffs in plenty / they from her chamber bore, +And to the knights full noble / dealt out in goodly store, +Mantles lined all richly / from collar down to spur. +What for the journey pleased him / did choose therefrom Sir Ruediger. + +1174 + +Upon the seventh morning / from Bechelaren went +The knight with train of warriors. / Attire and armament +Bore they in fullest measure / through the Bavarian land, +And ne'er upon the journey / dared assail them robber band. + +1175 + +Unto the Rhine then came they / ere twelve days were flown, +And there were soon the tidings / of their coming known. +'Twas told unto the monarch / and with him many a man, +How strangers came unto him. / To question then the king began, + +1176 + +If any was did know them, / for he would gladly hear. +They saw their carrying-horses / right heavy burdens bear: +That they were knights of power / knew they well thereby. +Lodgings they made them ready / in the wide city speedily. + +1177 + +When that the strangers / had passed within the gate +Every eye did gaze on / the knights that came in state, +And mickle was the wonder / whence to the Rhine they came. +Then sent the king for Hagen, / if he perchance might know the same. + +1178 + +Then spake he of Tronje: / "These knights I ne'er have seen, +Yet when we now behold them / I'll tell thee well, I ween, +From whence they now ride hither / unto this country. +An I not straightway know them, / from distant land in sooth they be." + +1179 + +For the guests fit lodgings / now provided were. +Clad in rich apparel / came the messenger, +And to the court his fellows / did bear him company. +Sumptuous attire / wore they, wrought full cunningly. + +1180 + +Then spake the doughty Hagen: / "As far as goes my ken, +For that long time the noble / knight I not have seen, +Come they in such manner / as were it Ruediger, +The valiant thane from Hunland, / that leads the stately riders here." + +1181 + +Then straightway spake the monarch: / "How shall I understand +That he of Bechelaren / should come unto this land?" +Scarce had King Gunther / his mind full spoken there, +When saw full surely Hagen / that 'twas the noble Ruediger. + +1182 + +He and his friends then hastened / with warmest welcoming. +Then saw ye knights five hundred / adown from saddle spring, +And were those knights of Hunland / received in fitting way. +Messengers ne'er beheld ye / attired in so fine array. + +1183 + +Hagen of Tronje, / with voice full loud spake he: +"Unto these thanes full noble / a hearty welcome be, +To the lord of Bechelaren / and his men every one." +Thereat was fitting honor / done to every valiant Hun. + +1184 + +The monarch's nearest kinsmen / went forth the guests to meet. +Of Metz the knight Sir Ortwein / Ruediger thus did greet: +"The while our life hath lasted, / never yet hath guest +Here been seen so gladly: / be that in very truth confessed." + +1185 + +For that greeting thanked they / the brave knights one and all. +With train of high attendants / they passed unto the hall, +Where valiant men a many / stood round the monarch's seat. +The king arose from settle / in courteous way the guests to greet. + +1186 + +Right courteously he greeted / then the messenger. +Gunther and Gernot, / full busy both they were +For stranger and companions / a welcome fit to make. +The noble knight Sir Ruediger / by the hand the king did take. + +1187 + +He led him to the settle / where himself he sat: +He bade pour for the strangers / (a welcome work was that) +Mead the very choicest / and the best of wine, +That e'er ye might discover / in all the lands about the Rhine. + +1188 + +Giselher and Gere / joined the company too, +Eke Dankwart and Volker, / when that they knew +The coming of the strangers: / glad they were of mood, +And greeted 'fore the monarch / fair the noble knights and good. + +1189 + +Then spake unto his master / of Tronje the knight: +"Let our thanes seek ever / fully to requite +What erstwhile the margrave / in love to us hath done: +Fair Gotelinde's husband / our gratitude full well hath won." + +1190 + +Thereto spake King Gunther: / "Withhold it not I may. +How they both do bear them, / tell me now, I pray, +Etzel and Helke / afar in Hunland." +Then answered him the margrave: / "Fain would I have thee understand." + +1191 + +Then rose he from the settle / and his men every one. +He spake unto the monarch: / "An may the thing be done, +And is't thy royal pleasure, / so will I naught withhold, +But the message that I bring thee / shall full willingly be told." + +1192 + +He spake: "What tale soever, / doth this thy message make, +I grant thee leave to tell it, / nor further counsel take. +Now shalt thou let us hear it, / me and my warriors too, +For fullest leave I grant thee / thy high purpose to pursue." + +1193 + +Then spake the upright messenger: / "Hither to thee at Rhine +Doth faithful service tender / master high of mine; +To all thy kinsmen likewise, / as many as may be: +Eke is this my message / borne in all good will to thee. + +1194 + +"To thee the noble monarch / bids tell his tale of need. +His folk 's forlorn and joyless; / my mistress high is dead, +Helke the full stately / my good master's wife, +Whereby now is orphaned / full many a fair maiden's life, + +1195 + +"Children of royal parents / for whom hath cared her hand: +Thereby doth the country / in plight full sorry stand. +Alack, nor is there other / that them with love may tend. +I ween the time long distant / eke when the monarch's grief shall end." + +1196 + +"God give him meed," spake Gunther, / "that he so willingly +Doth offer thus good service / to my kinsmen and to me-- +I joy that I his greeting / here have heard this day-- +The which with glad endeavor / my kinsmen and my men shall pay." + +1197 + +Thereto the knight of Burgundy, / the valiant Gernot, said: +"The world may ever rue it / that Helke fair lies dead, +So manifold the virtues / that did her life adorn." +A willing testimony / by Hagen to the words was borne. + +1198 + +Thereto again spake Ruediger / the noble messenger: +"Since thou, O king, dost grant it, / shalt thou now further hear +What message 'tis my master / beloved hath hither sent, +For that since death of Helke / his days he hath in sorrow spent. + +1199 + +"'Tis told my lord that Kriemhild / doth widowed live alone, +And dead is doughty Siegfried. / May now such thing be done, +And wilt thou grant that favor, / a crown she then shall wear +Before the knights of Etzel: / this message from my lord I bear." + +1200 + +Then spake the mighty monarch / --a king he was of grace-- +"My will in this same matter / she'll hear, an so she please. +Thereof will I instruct thee / ere three days are passed by-- +Ere I her mind have sounded, / wherefore to Etzel this deny?" + +1201 + +Meanwhile for the strangers / bade they make cheer the best +In sooth so were they tended / that Ruediger confessed +He had 'mong men of Gunther / of friends a goodly store. +Hagen full glad did serve him, / as he had Hagen served of yore. + +1202 + +Thus there did tarry Ruediger / until the third day. +The king did counsel summon / --he moved in wisest way-- +If that unto his kinsmen / seemed it fitting thing, +That Kriemhild take unto her / for spouse Etzel the king. + +1203 + +Together all save Hagen / did the thing advise, +And unto King Gunther / spake he in this wise: +"An hast thou still thy senses, / of that same thing beware, +That, be she ne'er so willing, / thou lend'st thyself her will to share." + +1204 + +"Wherefore," spake then Gunther, / "should I allow it not? +Whene'er doth fortune favor / Kriemhild in aught, +That shall I gladly grant her, / for sister dear is she. +Yea, ought ourselves to seek it, / might it but her honor be." + +1205 + +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "Now such words give o'er. +Were Etzel known unto thee / as unto me of yore, +And did'st thou grant her to him, / as 'tis thy will I hear, +Then wouldst thou first have reason / for thy later weal to fear." + +1206 + +"Wherefore?" spake then Gunther. / "Well may I care for that, +E'er to thwart his temper / that so I aught of hate +At his hands should merit, / an if his wife she be." +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "Such counsel hast thou ne'er of me." + +1207 + +Then did they bid for Gernot / and Giselher to go, +For wished they of the royal / twain their mind to know, +If that the mighty monarch / Kriemhild for spouse should take. +Yet Hagen and none other / thereto did opposition make. + +1208 + +Then spake of Burgundy / Giselher the thane: +"Well may'st thou now, friend Hagen, / show upright mind again: +For sorrows wrought upon her / may'st thou her well requite. +Howe'er she findeth fortune, / ne'er should it be in thy despite." + +1209 + +"Yea, hast thou to my sister / so many sorrows done," +So spake further Giselher, / the full noble thane, +"That fullest reason hath she / to mete thee naught but hate. +In sooth was never lady / than she bereft of joy more great." + +1210 + +"What I do know full certain, / that known to all I make: +If e'er shall come the hour / that she do Etzel take, +She'll work us yet sore evil, / howe'er the same she plan. +Then in sooth will serve her / full many a keen and doughty man." + +1211 + +In answer then to Hagen / the brave Gernot said: +"With us doth lie to leave it / until they both be dead, +Ere that we ride ever / unto Etzel's land. +That we be faithful to her / doth honor meantime sure command." + +1212 + +Thereto again spake Hagen: / "Gainsay me here may none. +And shall the noble Kriemhild / e'er sit 'neath Helke's crown, +Howe'er she that accomplish, / she'll do us grievous hurt. +Good knights, therefrom to keep you / doth better with your weal + consort." + +1213 + +In anger spake then Giselher / the son of Ute the fair: +"None shall yet among us / himself like traitor bear. +What honor e'er befall her, / rejoice thereat should we. +Whate'er thou sayest, Hagen, / true helper shall she find in me." + +1214 + +When that heard it Hagen / straightway waxed he wroth. +Gernot and Giselher / the knights high-minded both, +And Gunther, mighty monarch, / did counsel finally, +If that did wish it Kriemhild, / by them 'twould unopposed be. + +1215 + +Then spake the margrave Gere: / "That lady will I tell +How that of royal Etzel / she may think full well. +In fear are subject to him / brave warriors many a one: +Well may he recompense her / for wrong that e'er to her was done." + +1216 + +Then went the knight full valiant / where he did Kriemhild find, +And straightway spake unto her / upon her greeting kind: +"Me may'st thou gladly welcome / with messengers high meed. +Fortune hath come to part thee / now from all thy bitter need. + +1217 + +"For sake of love he bears thee, / lady, doth seek thy hand +One of all the highest / that e'er o'er monarch's land +Did rule in fullest honor, / or ever crown might wear: +High knights do bring the message, / which same thy brother bids thee + hear." + +1218 + +Then spake she rich in sorrow: / "Now God forbid to thee +And all I have of kinsmen / that aught of mockery +They do on me, poor woman. / What were I unto one, +Who e'er at heart the joyance / of a noble wife hath known?" + +1219 + +Much did she speak against it. / Anon as well came there +Gernot her brother / and the young Giselher. +In loving wise they begged her / her mourning heart to cheer: +An would she take the monarch, / verily her weal it were. + +1220 + +Yet might not then by any / the lady's mind be bent, +That any man soever / to love she would consent. +Thereon the thanes besought her: / "Now grant the thing to be, +An dost thou nothing further, / that the messenger thou deign'st to see." + +1221 + +"That will I not deny you," / spake the high lady, +"That the noble Ruediger / I full gladly see, +Such knightly grace adorns him. / Were he not messenger, +And came there other hither / by him I all unspoken were." + +1222 + +She spake: "Upon the morrow / bid him hither fare +Unto this my chamber. / Then shall he fully hear +How that do stand my wishes, / the which I'll tell him true." +Of her full grievous sorrow / was she minded thus anew. + +1223 + +Eke not else desired / the noble Ruediger +Than that by the lady / leave thus granted were: +He knew himself so skilful, / might he such favor earn, +So should he her full certain / from her spoken purpose turn. + +1224 + +Upon the morrow early / when that the mass was sung +Came the noble messengers, / whereof a mickle throng. +They that should Sir Ruediger / to court bear company, +Many a man full stately / in rich apparel might ye see. + +1225 + +Kriemhild, dame high-stated, / --full sad she was of mood-- +There Ruediger awaited, / the noble knight and good. +He found her in such raiment / as daily she did wear: +The while were her attendants / in dresses clad full rich and rare, + +1226 + +Unto the threshold went she / the noble guest to meet, +And the man of Etzel / did she full kindly greet. +Twelve knights there did enter, / himself and eleven more, +And well were they received: / to her such guests came ne'er before. + +1227 + +The messenger to seat him / and his men they gave command. +The twain valiant margraves / saw ye before her stand, +Eckewart and Gere, / the noble knights and keen, +Such was the lady's sorrow, / none saw ye there of cheerful mien. + +1228 + +They saw before her sitting / full many a lady fair, +And yet the Lady Kriemhild / did naught but sorrow there. +The dress upon her bosom / was wet with tears that fell, +And soon the noble margrave / perceived her mickle grief full well. + +1229 + +Then spake the lofty messenger: / "Daughter of king full high, +To me and these my fellows / that bear me company +Deign now the grace to grant us / that we before thee stand +And tell to thee the tidings / wherefore we rode unto thy land." + +1230 + +"That grace to thee is granted," / spake the lofty queen; +"Whate'er may be thy message, / I'll let it now be seen +That I do hear it gladly: / thou'rt welcome messenger." +That fruitless was their errand / deemed the others well to hear. + +1231 + +Then spake of Bechelaren / the noble Ruediger: +"Pledge of true love unto thee / from lofty king I bear, +Etzel who bids thee, lady, / here royal compliment: +He hath to woo thy favor / knights full worthy hither sent. + +1232 + +"His love to thee he offers / full heartily and free: +Fidelity that lasteth / he plighteth unto thee, +As erst to Lady Helke / who o'er his heart held sway. +Yea, thinking on her virtues / hath he full oft had joyless day." + +1233 + +Then spake the royal lady: / "O Margrave Ruediger, +If that known to any / my sharp sorrows were, +Besought then were I never / again to take me spouse. +Such ne'er was won by lady / as the husband I did lose." + +1234 + +"What is that sootheth sorrow," / the valiant knight replied, +"An be't not loving friendship / whene'er that may betide, +And that each mortal choose him / who his delight shall be? +Naught is that so availeth / to keep the heart from sorrow free. + +1235 + +"Wilt thou minded be to love him, / this noble master mine, +O'er mighty crowns a dozen / the power shall be thine. +Thereto of princes thirty / my lord shall give thee land, +The which hath all subdued / the prowess of his doughty hand. + +1236 + +"O'er many a knight full worthy / eke mistress shalt thou be +That my Lady Helke / did serve right faithfully, +And over many a lady / that served amid her train, +Of high and royal lineage," / spake the keen and valiant thane. + +1237 + +"Thereto my lord will give thee / --he bids to thee make known-- +If that beside the monarch / thou deign'st to wear a crown, +Power in fullest measure / that Helke e'er might boast: +The same in lordly manner / shalt thou wield o'er Etzel's host." + +1238 + +Then spake the royal lady: / "How might again my life +Have thereof desire / to be a hero's wife? +Hath death in one already / wrought me such sorrows sore, +That joyless must my days be / from this time for evermore." + +1239 + +Then spake the men of Hunland: / "O royal high lady, +Thy life shall there by Etzel / so full of honor be +Thy heart 'twill ever gladden / if but may be such thing: +Full many a thane right stately / doth homage to the mighty king. + +1240 + +"Might but Helke's maidens / and they that wait on thee +E'er be joined together / in one royal company, +Well might brave knights to see them / wax merry in their mood. +Be, lady, now persuaded / --'tis verily thy surest good." + +1241 + +She spake in courteous manner: / "Let further parley be +Until doth come the morrow. / Then hither come to me. +So will I give my answer / to bear upon your way." +The noble knights and worthy / must straight therein her will obey. + +1242 + +When all from thence were parted / and had their lodgings sought, +Then bade the noble lady / that Giselher be brought, +And eke with him her mother. / To both she then did tell +That meet for her was weeping, / and naught might fit her mood so well. + +1243 + +Then spake her brother Giselher: / "Sister, to me 'tis told-- +And well may I believe it-- / that thy grief manifold +Etzel complete will scatter, / an tak'st thou him for man. +Whate'er be other's counsel, / meseems it were a thing well done." + +1244 + +Further eke spake Giselher: / "Console thee well may he. +From Rhone unto Rhine river, / from Elbe unto the sea, +King there is none other / that holds so lordly sway. +An he for spouse do take thee, / gladden thee full well he may." + +1245 + +"Brother loved full dearly, / wherefore dost counsel it? +To mourn and weep forever / doth better me befit. +How may I 'mid warriors / appear in royal state? +Was ever fair my body, / of beauty now 'tis desolate." + +1246 + +Then spake the Lady Ute / her daughter dear unto: +"The thing thy brother counsels, / my loving child, that do. +By thy friends be guided, / then with thee well 'twill be. +Long time it now hath grieved me / thee thus disconsolate to see." + +1247 + +Then prayed she God with fervor / that he might her provide +With store of gold and silver / and raiment rich beside, +As erstwhile when her husband / did live a stately thane: +Since then so happy hour / never had she known again. + +1248 + +In her own bosom thought she: / "An shall I not deny +My body to a heathen / --a Christian lady I-- +So must I while life lasteth / have shame to be my own. +An gave he realms unnumbered, / such thing by me might ne'er be done." + +1249 + +And there withal she left it. / The night through until day, +Upon her couch the lady / with mind full troubled lay. +Nor yet her eyes full shining / of tears at all were free, +Until upon the morrow / forth to matins issued she. + +1250 + +When for mass was sounded, / came there the kings likewise. +Again did they their sister / by faithful word advise +To take for spouse unto her / of Hunland the king. +All joyless was the visage / they saw the lady thither bring. + +1251 + +They bade the men of Etzel / thither lead again, +Who unto their country / fain their leave had ta'en, +Their message won or fruitless, / how that soe'er might be. +Unto the court came Ruediger. / Full eager were his company + +1252 + +By the knight to be informed / how the thing befell, +And if betimes they knew it / 'twould please them all full well, +For weary was the journey / and long unto their land. +Soon did the noble Ruediger / again in Kriemhild's presence stand. + +1253 + +In full earnest manner / then the knight gan pray +The high royal lady / that she to him might say +What were from her the message / to Etzel he should bear. +Naught but denial only / did he from the lady hear, + +1254 + +For that her love might never / by man again be won. +Thereto spake the margrave: / "Ill such thing were done. +Wherefore such fair body / wilt thou to ruin give? +Spouse of knight full worthy / may'st thou yet in honor live." + +1255 + +Naught booted how they besought her, / till that Ruediger +Spake in secret manner / in the high lady's ear, +How Etzel should requite her / for ills she e'er did know. +Then gan her mickle sorrow / milder at the thought to grow. + +1256 + +Unto the queen then spake he: / "Let now thy weeping be. +If 'mong the Huns hadst thou / other none than me +And my faithful kinsmen / and my good men alone, +Sorely must he repay it / who hath aught to thee of evil done." + +1257 + +Thereat apace all lighter / the lady's sorrow grew, +She spake: "So swear thou truly, / what any 'gainst me do, +That thou wilt be the foremost / my sorrows to requite." +Thereto spake the margrave: / "Lady, to thee my word I plight." + +1258 + +With all his men together / sware then Ruediger +Faithfully to serve her, / and in all things whatsoe'er +Naught would e'er deny her / the thanes from Etzel's land, +Whereof she might have honor: / thereto gave Ruediger his hand. + +1259 + +Then thought the faithful lady: / "Since I thus have won +Band of friends so faithful, / care now have I none +How shall speak the people / in my sore need of me. +The death of my loved husband / perchance shall yet avenged be." + +1260 + +Thought she: "Since hath Etzel / so many knights and true, +An shall I but command them, / whate'er I will I do. +Eke hath he such riches / that free may be my hand: +Bereft of all my treasure / by Hagen's faithless art I stand." + +1261 + +Then spake she unto Ruediger: / "Were it not, as I do know, +The king is yet a heathen, / so were I fain to go +Whithersoe'er he willed it, / and take him for my lord." +Thereto spake the margrave: / "Lady, no longer hold such word. + +1262 + +"Such host he hath of warriors / who Christians are as we, +That beside the monarch / may care ne'er come to thee. +Yea, may he be baptized / through thee to Christian life: +Well may'st thou then rejoice thee / to be the royal Etzel's wife." + +1263 + +Then spake again her brother: / "Sister, thy favor lend, +That now all thy sorrow / thereby may have an end." +And so long they besought her / that full of sadness she +Her word at length had plighted / the monarch Etzel's wife to be. + +1264 + +She spake: "You will I follow, / I most lorn lady, +That I fare to Hunland, / as soon as it may be +That I friends have ready / to lead me to his land." +Before the knights assembled / fair Kriemhild pledged thereto her hand. + +1265 + +Then spake again the margrave: / "Two knights do serve thee true, +And I thereof have many: / 'tis easy thing to do, +That thee with fitting honor / across the Rhine we guide. +Nor shalt thou, lady, longer / here in Burgundy abide. + +1266 + +"Good men have I five hundred, / and eke my kinsmen stand +Ready here to serve thee / and far in Etzel's land, +Lady, at thy bidding. / And I do pledge the same, +Whene'er thou dost admonish, / to serve thee without cause for shame. + +1267 + +"Now bid with full equipment / thy horses to prepare: +Ruediger's true counsel / will bring thee sorrow ne'er; +And tell it to thy maidens / whom thou wilt take with thee. +Full many a chosen warrior / on the way shall join our company." + +1268 + +They had full rich equipment / that once their train arrayed +The while that yet lived Siegfried, / so might she many a maid +In honor high lead with her, / as she thence would fare. +What steeds all rich caparisoned / awaited the high ladies there! + +1269 + +If till that time they ever / in richest dress were clad, +Thereof now for their journey / full store was ready made, +For that they of the monarch / had such tidings caught. +From chests longtime well bolted / forth the treasures rich were brought. + +1270 + +Little were they idle / until the fifth day, +But sought rich dress that folded / secure in covers lay. +Kriemhild wide did open / all her treasure there, +And largess great would give she / unto the men of Ruediger. + +1271 + +Still had she of the treasure / of Nibelungenland, +(She weened the same in Hunland / to deal with bounteous hand) +So great that hundred horses / ne'er the whole might bear. +How stood the mind of Kriemhild, / came the tidings unto Hagen's ear. + +1272 + +He spake: "Since Kriemhild never / may me in favor hold, +E'en so here must tarry / Siegfried's store of gold. +Wherefore unto mine enemies / such mickle treasure go? +What with the treasure Kriemhild / intendeth, that full well I know. + +1273 + +"Might she but take it thither, / in sooth believe I that, +'Twould be dealt out in largess / to stir against me hate. +Nor own they steeds sufficient / the same to bear away. +'Twill safe be kept by Hagen / --so shall they unto Kriemhild say." + +1274 + +When she did hear the story, / with grief her heart was torn. +Eke unto the monarchs / all three the tale was borne. +Fain would they prevent it: / yet when that might not be, +Spake the noble Ruediger / in this wise full joyfully: + +1275 + +"Wherefore, queen full stately, / weep'st thou o'er this gold? +For thee will King Etzel / in such high favor hold +When but his eyes behold thee, / to thee such store he'll give +That ne'er thou may'st exhaust it: / that, lady, by my word believe." + +1276 + +Thereto the queen gave answer: / "Full noble Ruediger, +Greater treasure never / king's daughter had for share +Than this that Hagen from me / now hath ta'en away." +Then went her brother Gernot / to the chamber where the treasure lay. + +1277 + +With force he stuck the monarch's / key into the door, +And soon of Kriemhild's treasure / they from the chamber bore +Marks full thirty thousand / or e'en more plenteously. +He bade the guests to take it, / which pleased King Gunther well to see. + +1278 + +Then Gotelinde's husband / of Bechelaren spake: +"An if my Lady Kriemhild / with her complete might take +What treasure e'er came hither / from Nibelungenland, +Ne'er a whit would touch it / mine or my royal lady's hand. + +1279 + +"Now bid them here to keep it, / for ne'er the same I'll touch. +Yea brought I from my country / of mine own wealth so much, +That we upon our journey / may be full well supplied, +And ne'er have lack in outlay / as in state we homeward ride." + +1280 + +Chests well filled a dozen / from the time of old +Had for their own her maidens, / of the best of gold +That e'er ye might discover: / now thence away 'twas borne, +And jewels for the ladies / upon the journey to be worn. + +1281 + +Of the might she yet was fearful / of Hagen grim and bold. +Still had she of mass-money / a thousand marks in gold, +That gave she for the soul's rest / of her husband dear. +Such loving deed and faithful / did touch the heart of Ruediger. + +1282 + +Then spake the lady mournful: / "Who now that loveth me, +And for the love they bear me / may willing exiles be, +Who with me to Hunland / now away shall ride? +Take they of my treasure / and steeds and meet attire provide." + +1283 + +Then did the margrave Eckewart / answer thus the queen: +"Since I from the beginning / of thy train have been, +Have I e'er right faithful / served thee," spake the thane, +"And to the end I'll ever / thus faithful unto thee remain. + +1284 + +"Eke will I lead with me / five hundred of my men, +Whom I grant to serve thee / in faithful way again. +Nor e'er shall we be parted / till that we be dead." +Low bowing thanked him Kriemhild, / as verily might be his meed. + +1285 + +Forth were brought the horses, / for that they thence would fare. +Then was a mickle weeping / of friends that parted there. +Ute, queen full stately, / and many a lady more +Showed that from Lady Kriemhild / to part did grieve their hearts full + sore. + +1286 + +A hundred stately maidens / with her she led away, +And as for them was fitting, / full rich was their array. +Many a bitter tear-drop / from shining eye fell down: +Yet joys knew they full many / eke in Etzel's land anon. + +1287 + +Thither came Sir Giselher / and Gernot as well, +And with them train of followers, / as duty did compel. +Safe escort would they furnish / for their dear sister then, +And with them led of warriors / a thousand brave and stately men. + +1288 + +Then came the valiant Gere, / and Ortwein eke came he: +Rumold the High Steward / might not absent be. +Unto the Danube did they / night-quarters meet provide. +Short way beyond the city / did the royal Gunther ride. + +1289 + +Ere from the Rhine they started / had they forward sent +Messengers that full quickly / unto Hunland went, +And told unto the monarch / how that Ruediger +For spouse at length had won him / the high-born queen beyond compare. + + + + +TWENTY-FIRST ADVENTURE + +How Kriemhild fared to the Huns + +1290 + +The messengers leave we riding. / Now shall ye understand +How did the Lady Kriemhild / journey through the land, +And where from her were parted / Gernot and Giselher. +Upon her had they waited / as faithful unto her they were. + +1291 + +As far as to the Danube / at Vergen did they ride, +Where must be the parting / from their royal sister's side, +For that again they homeward / would ride unto the Rhine. +No eye but wet from weeping / in all the company was seen. + +1292 + +Giselher the valiant / thus to his sister said: +"If that thou ever, lady, / need hast of my aid, +And fronts thee aught of trouble, / give me to understand, +And straight I'll ride to serve thee / afar unto King Etzel's land." + +1293 + +Upon the mouth then kissed she / all her friends full dear. +The escort soon had taken / eke leave of Ruediger +And the margrave's warriors / in manner lovingly. +With the queen upon her journey / went many a maid full fair to see. + +1294 + +Four beyond a hundred / there were, all richly clad +In silk of cunning pattern. / Many a shield full broad +On the way did guard the ladies / in hand of valiant thane. +Full many a stately warrior / from thence did backward turn again. + +1295 + +Thence away they hastened / down through Bavarian land. +Soon were told the tidings / how that was at hand +A mickle host of strangers, / where a cloister stands from yore +And where the Inn its torrent / doth into Danube river pour. + +1296 + +At Passau in the city / a lordly bishop bode. +Empty soon each lodging / and bishop's palace stood: +To Bavarian land they hastened / the high guests to meet, +And there the Bishop Pilgrim / the Lady Kriemhild fair did greet. + +1297 + +The warriors of that country / no whit grieved they were +Thus to see follow with her / so many a maiden fair. +Upon those high-born ladies / their eyes with joy did rest, +Full comfortable quarters / prepared they for each noble guest. + +1298 + +With his niece the bishop / unto Passau rode. +When among the burghers / the story went abroad, +That thither was come Kriemhild, / the bishop's niece full fair, +Soon did the towns-people / reception meet for her prepare. + +1299 + +There to have them tarry / was the bishop fain. +To him spake Sir Eckewart: / "Here may we not remain. +Unto Ruediger's country / must we journey down. +Thanes many there await us, / to whom our coming well is known." + +1300 + +The tidings now knew likewise / Lady Gotelinde fair. +Herself and noble daughter / did them quick prepare. +Message she had from Ruediger / that he well pleased would be, +Should she unto Lady / Kriemhild show such courtesy, + +1301 + +That she ride forth to meet her, / and bring his warriors true +Upward unto the Ense. / When they the tidings knew, +Saw ye how on all sides / they thronged the busy way. +Forth to meet the strangers / rode and eke on foot went they. + +1302 + +As far as Everdingen / meanwhile was come the queen: +In that Bavarian country / on the way were never seen +Robbers seeking plunder, / as e'er their custom was: +Of fear from such a quarter / had the travellers little cause. + +1303 + +'Gainst that had well provided / the noble margrave: +A band he led that numbered / good thousand warriors brave. +There was eke come Gotelinde, / spouse of Ruediger, +And bearing her high company / full many noble knights there were. + +1304 + +When came they o'er the Traune / by Ense on the green, +There full many an awning / outstretched and tent was seen, +Wherein that night the strangers / should find them welcome rest. +Well was made provision / by Ruediger for each high guest. + +1305 + +Not long fair Gotelinde did in her quarters stay, +But left them soon behind her. / Then coursed upon the way +With merry jingling bridle / many a well-shaped steed. +Full fair was the reception: / whereat was Ruediger right glad. + +1306 + +On one side and the other / did swell the stately train +Knights that rode full gaily, / many a noble thane. +As they in joust disported, / full many a maid looked on, +Nor to the queen unwelcome / was the riders' service done. + +1307 + +As rode there 'fore the strangers / the men of Ruediger, +From shaft full many a splinter / saw ye fly in air +In hand of doughty warrior / that jousted lustily. +Them might ye 'fore the ladies / pricking in stately manner see. + +1308 + +Anon therefrom they rested. / Knights many then did greet +Full courteously each other. / Then forth Kriemhild to meet +Went the fair Gotelinde, / by gallant warriors led. +Those skilled in lady's service, / --little there the rest they had. + +1309 + +The lord of Bechelaren / unto his lady rode. +Soon the noble margravine / her high rejoicing showed, +That all safe and sound he / from the Rhine was come again. +The care that filled her bosom / by mickle joy from her was ta'en. + +1310 + +When him she had received, / her on the green he bade +Dismount with all the ladies / that in her train she led. +There saw ye all unidle / many a knight of high estate, +Who with full ready service / upon the ladies then did wait. + +1311 + +Then saw the Lady Kriemhild / the margravine where she stood +Amid her fair attendants: / nearer not she rode. +Upon the steed that bore her / the rein she drew full tight, +And bade them straightway help her / adown from saddle to alight. + +1312 + +The bishop saw ye leading / his sister's daughter fair, +And with him eke went Eckewart / to Gotelinde there. +The willing folk on all sides / made way before their feet. +With kiss did Gotelinde / the dame from land far distant greet. + +1313 + +Then spake in manner kindly / the wife of Ruediger; +"Right glad am I, dear lady, / that I thy visage fair +Have in this our country / with mine own eyes seen. +In these times might never / greater joy to me have been." + +1314 + +"God give thee meed," spake Kriemhild, / "Gotelinde, for this grace. +If with son of Botelung / happy may be my place, +May it henceforth be thy profit / that me thou here dost see." +Yet all unknown to either / was that which yet anon must be. + +1315 + +With curtsy to each other / went full many a maid, +The knights a willing service / unto the ladies paid. +After the greeting sat they / adown upon the green; +Knew many then each other / that hitherto had strangers been. + +1316 + +For the ladies they poured refreshment. / Now was come mid-day, +And did those high attendants / there no longer stay, +But went where found they ready / many a spreading tent. +Full willing was the service / unto the noble guests they lent. + +1317 + +The night through until morning / did they rest them there. +They of Bechelaren / meanwhile did prepare +That into fitting quarters / each high guest be brought. +'Twas by the care of Ruediger / that never one did want for aught. + +1318 + +Open ye saw the windows / the castle walls along, +And the burgh at Bechelaren / its gates wide open flung, +As through the guests went pricking, / that there full welcome were. +For them the lord full noble / had bidden quarters meet prepare. + +1319 + +Ruediger's fair daughter / with her attendant train +Came forth in loving manner / to greet the lofty queen. +With her was eke her mother / the stately margravine; +There full friendly greeting / of many a maiden fair was seen. + +1320 + +By the hand they took each other / and thence did pass each pair +Into a Hall full spacious, / the which was builded fair, +And 'neath its walls the Danube / flowed down with rushing tide. +As breezes cool played round them, / might they full happy there abide. + +1321 + +What they there did further, / tell it not I can. +That they so long did tarry, / heard ye the knights complain +That were of Kriemhild's company, / who unwilling there abode. +What host of valiant warriors / with them from Bechelaren rode! + +1322 + +Full kindly was the service / did render Ruediger, +Likewise gave Lady Kriemhild / twelve golden armbands rare +To Gotelinde's daughter, / and dress so richly wrought +That finer was none other / that into Etzel's land she brought. + +1323 + +Though Nibelungen treasure / from her erstwhile was ta'en, +Good-will of all that knew her / did she e'er retain +With such little portion / as yet she did command. +Unto her host's attendants / dealt she thereof with bounteous hand. + +1324 + +The Lady Gotelinde / such honors high again +Did pay in gracious manner / to the guests afar from Rhine +That of all the strangers / found ye never one +That wore not rich attire / from her, and many a precious stone. + +1325 + +When they their fast had broken / and would thence depart, +The lady of the castle / did pledge with faithful heart +Unto the wife of Etzel / service true to bear. +Kriemhild caressed full fondly / the margravine's young daughter fair. + +1326 + +To the queen then spake the maiden: / "If e'er it pleaseth thee, +Well know I that my father / dear full willingly +Unto thee will send me / where thou livest in Hunland." +That faithful was the maiden, / full well did Kriemhild understand. + +1327 + +Now ready were the horses / the castle steps before, +And soon the queen full stately / did take her leave once more +Of the lovely daughter / and spouse of Ruediger. +Eke parted with fair greeting / thence full many a maiden fair. + +1328 + +Each other they full seldom / thereafter might behold. +From Medelick were carried / beakers rich of gold +In hand and eke full many, / wherein was sparkling wine: +Upon the way were greeted / thus the strangers from the Rhine. + +1329 + +High there a lord was seated, / Astold the name he bore, +Who that into Osterland / did lead the way before +As far as to Mautaren / adown the Danube's side. +There did they fitting service / for the lofty queen provide. + +1330 + +Of his niece the bishop / took leave in loving wise. +That she well should bear her, / did he oft advise, +And that she win her honor / as Helke erst had done. +Ah, how great the honor / anon that 'mid the Huns she won! + +1331 + +Unto the Traisem brought they / forth the strangers then. +Fair had they attendance / from Ruediger's men, +Till o'er the country riding / the Huns came them to meet. +With mickle honor did they / then the royal lady greet. + +1332 + +For had the king of Hunland, / Traisem's stream beside, +A full mighty castle, / known afar and wide, +The same hight Traisenmauer: / Dame Helke there before +Did sit, such bounteous mistress / as scarce ye ever might see more, + +1333 + +An it were not Kriemhild / who could such bounty show, +That after days of sorrow / the pleasure she might know, +To be held in honor / by Etzel's men each one: +That praise in fullest measure / had she amid those thanes anon. + +1334 + +Afar the might of Etzel / so well was known around, +That at every season / within his court were found +Knights of all the bravest, / whereof ye e'er did hear +In Christian lands or heathen: / with him all thither come they were. + +1335 + +By him at every season, / as scarce might elsewhere be, +Knights both of Christian doctrine / and heathen use saw ye. +Yet in what mind soever / did each and every stand, +To all in fullest measure / dealt the king with bounteous hand. + + + + +TWENTY-SECOND ADVENTURE + +How Etzel kept the Wedding-feast with Kriemhild + +1336 + +At Traisenmauer she tarried / until the fourth day. +Upon the road the dust-clouds / meanwhile never lay. +But rose like smoke of fire / around on every side: +Onward then through Austria / King Etzel's warriors did ride. + +1337 + +Then eke unto the monarch / such tidings now were told, +That at the thought did vanish / all his grief of old, +In what high manner Kriemhild / should in his land appear. +Then gan the monarch hasten / where he did find the lady fair. + +1338 + +Of many a tongue and varied / upon the way were seen +Before King Etzel riding / full many warriors keen, +Of Christians and of heathen / a spreading company. +To greet their coming mistress / forth they rode in fair array. + +1339 + +Of Reuss men and Greeks there / great was the tale, +And rapid saw ye riding / the Wallach and the Pole +On chargers full of mettle / that they did deftly guide. +Their own country's custom / did they in no wise lay aside. + +1340 + +From the land of Kief / rode there full many a thane, +And the wild Petschenegers. / Full many a bow was drawn, +As at the flying wild-fowl / through air the bolt was sped. +With might the bow was bended / as far as to the arrow's head. + +1341 + +A city by the Danube / in Osterland doth stand, +Hight the same is Tulna: / of many a distant land +Saw Kriemhild there the customs, / ne'er yet to her were known. +To many there did greet her / sorrow befell through her anon. + +1342 + +Before the monarch Etzel / rode a company +Of merry men and mighty, / courteous and fair to see, +Good four-and-twenty chieftains, / mighty men and bold. +Naught else was their desire / save but their mistress to behold. + +1343 + +Then the Duke Ramung / from far Wallachia +With seven hundred warriors / dashed forth athwart her way: +Their going might ye liken / unto birds in flight. +Then came the chieftain Gibeke, / with his host a stately sight. + +1344 + +Eke the valiant Hornbog / with full thousand men +From the king went forward / to greet his mistress then. +After their country's custom / in joy they shouted loud; +The doughty thanes of Hunland / likewise in merry tourney rode. + +1345 + +Then came a chief from Denmark, / Hawart bold and keen, +And the valiant Iring, / in whom no guile was seen, +And Irnfried of Thuringia, / a stately knight to see: +Kriemhild they greeted / that honor high therefrom had she, + +1346 + +With good knights twelve hundred / whom led they in their train. +Thither with three thousand / came Bloedel eke, the thane +That was King Etzel's brother / out of Hunland: +Unto his royal mistress / led he then his stately band. + +1347 + +Then did come King Etzel / and Dietrich by his side +With all his doughty fellows. / In state there saw ye ride +Many a knight full noble, / valiant and void of fear. +The heart of Lady Kriemhild / did such host of warriors cheer. + +1348 + +Then to his royal mistress / spake Sir Ruediger: +"Lady, now give I greeting / to the high monarch here. +Whom to kiss I bid thee, / grant him such favor then: +For not to all like greeting / may'st thou give 'mid Etzel's men." + +1349 + +They lifted then from saddle / the dame of royal state. +Etzel the mighty monarch / might then no longer wait, +But sprang from off his charger / with many a warrior keen: +Unto Kriemhild hasting / full joyously he then was seen. + +1350 + +As is to us related, / did there high princes twain +By the lady walking / bear aloft her train, +As the royal Etzel / went forward her to meet, +And she the noble monarch / with kiss in kindly wise did greet. + +1351 + +Aside she moved her wimple, / whereat her visage fair +Gleamed 'mid the gold around it. / Though many a knight stood there, +They deemed that Lady Helke / did boast not fairer face. +Full close beside the monarch / his brother Bloedel had his place. + +1352 + +To kiss him then Margrave / Ruediger her did tell, +And eke the royal Gibeke / and Sir Dietrich as well. +Of highest knights a dozen / did Etzel's spouse embrace; +Other knights full many / she greeted with a lesser grace. + +1353 + +All the while that Etzel / stood by Kriemhild so, +Did the youthful riders / as still they're wont to do: +In varied tourney saw ye / each 'gainst the other pass, +Christian knights and heathen, / as for each the custom was. + +1354 + +From men that followed Dietrich / saw ye in kindly wise +Splinters from the lances / flying high arise +Aloft above their bucklers, / from hand of good knight sent! +By the German strangers / pierced was many a shield and rent. + +1355 + +From shaft of lances breaking / did far the din resound. +Together came the warriors / from all the land around, +Eke the guests of the monarch / and many a knight there was. +Thence did the mighty monarch / then with Lady Kriemhild pass. + +1356 + +Stretched a fair pavilion / beside them there was seen: +With tents as well was covered / all around the green, +Where they now might rest them / all that weary were. +By high-born knights was thither / led full many a lady fair. + +1357 + +With their royal mistress, / where in rich cushioned chair +Sat the queen full stately. / 'Twas by the margrave's care +That well had been provided, / with all that seemed good, +A worthy seat for Kriemhild: / thereat was Etzel glad of mood. + +1358 + +What was by Etzel spoken, / may I not understand. +In his right hand resting / lay her fair white hand. +They sat in loving fashion, / nor Ruediger would let +The king have secret converse / with Lady Kriemhild as yet. + +1359 + +'Twas bidden that the jousting / on all sides they give o'er. +The din of stately tourney / heard ye then no more. +All the men of Etzel / unto their tents did go, +For every warrior present / did they full spacious lodging show. + +1360 + +And now the day was ended / and they did rest the night +Until beheld they shining / once more the morning light. +Soon on charger mounted / again was many a man: +Heigho, what merry pastime, / the king to honor, they began! + +1361 + +By the Huns the monarch / bade honors high be shown. +Soon rode they forth from Tulna / unto Vienna town, +Where found they many a lady / decked out in fair array: +The same the monarch Etzel's / wife received in stately way. + +1362 + +In very fullest measure / upon them there did wait +Whate'er they might desire. / Of knights the joy was great, +Looking toward the revel. / Lodging then sought each one. +The wedding of the monarch / was in merry wise begun. + +1363 + +Yet not for all might lodging / within the town be had. +All that were not strangers, / Ruediger them bade +That they find them lodgings / beyond the city's bound. +I ween that at all seasons / by Lady Kriemhild's side was found + +1364 + +The noble Sir Dietrich / and many another thane, +Who amid their labors / but little rest had ta'en, +That the guests they harbored / of merry mood should be. +For Ruediger and his companions / went the time full pleasantly. + +1365 + +The wedding time was fallen / upon a Whitsuntide, +When the monarch Etzel / lay Kriemhild beside +In the town at Vienna. / So many men I ween +Through her former husband / had not in her service been. + +1366 + +Many that ne'er had seen her / did her rich bounty take, +And many a one among them / unto the strangers spake: +"We deemed that Lady Kriemhild / of wealth no more had aught +Now hath she by her giving / here full many a wonder wrought." + +1367 + +The wedding-feast it lasted / for days full seventeen. +Ne'er of other monarch / hath any told, I ween, +That wedded with more splendor: / of such no tale we hear. +All that there were present, / new-made apparel did they wear. + +1368 + +I ween that far in Netherland / sat she ne'er before +Amid such host of warriors. / And this believe I more: +Was Siegfried rich in treasure, / that yet he ne'er did gain, +As here she saw 'fore Etzel, / so many a high and noble thane. + +1369 + +Nor e'er gave any other / at his own wedding-tide +So many a costly mantle / flowing long and wide, +Nor yet so rich apparel / --so may ye well believe-- +As here from hand of Kriemhild / did they one and all receive. + +1370 + +Her friends and eke the strangers / were of a single mind, +That they would not be sparing / of treasure in any kind: +What any from them desired, / they gave with willing hand. +Many a thane from giving / himself of clothing reft did stand. + +1371 + +How by her noble husband / at the Rhine a queen she sat, +Of that she still was minded, / and her eye grew wet thereat. +Yet well she kept it hidden / that none the same might mark. +Now had she wealth of honor / after long years of sorrow dark. + +1372 + +What any did with bounty, / 'twas but an idle wind +By side of Dietrich's giving: / what Etzel's generous mind +Before to him had given, / complete did disappear. +Eke wrought there many a wonder / the hand of bounteous Ruediger. + +1373 + +Bloedelein the chieftain / that came from Hunland, +Full many a chest to empty / did he then command, +Of gold and eke of silver. / That did they freely give. +Right merrily the warriors / of the monarch saw ye live. + +1374 + +Likewise the monarch's minstrels / Werbel and Schwemmelein, +Won they at the wedding / each alone, I ween, +Marks a good thousand / or even more than that, +Whenas fair Lady Kriemhild / 'neath crown by royal Etzel sat. + +1375 + +Upon the eighteenth morning / from Vienna town they went. +Then in knightly pastime / many a shield was rent +By spear full well directed / by doughty rider's hand. +So came the royal Etzel / riding into Hunland. + +1376 + +At Heimburg's ancient castle / they tarried over night. +Tell the tale of people / no mortal ever might, +And the number of good warriors / did o'er the country come. +Ah, what fairest women / were gathered unto Etzel's home! + +1377 + +By Miesenburg's majestic / towers did they embark. +With horses eke and riders / the water all was dark, +As if 'twere earth they trod on, / as far as eye might see. +The way-worn ladies rested / now on board right pleasantly. + +1378 + +Now was lashed together / many a boat full good, +That no harm they suffered / from the waves and flood. +Many a stately awning / likewise above them spread, +Just as if beneath them / had they land and flowery mead. + +1379 + +When to Etzelburg the tidings / soon were borne along, +Therein of men and women / were seen a merry throng. +Who once the Lady Helke / as mistress did obey, +Anon by Lady Kriemhild / lived they many a gladsome day. + +1380 + +There did stand expectant / full many a maid high-born, +That since the death of Helke / had pined all forlorn. +Daughters of seven monarchs / Kriemhild there waiting found, +That were the high adornment / of all King Etzel's country round. + +1381 + +Herrat, a lofty princess, / did all the train obey, +Sister's child to Helke, / in whom high virtues lay, +Betrothed eke of Dietrich, / of royal lineage born, +Daughter of King Nentwein; / her did high honors eft adorn. + +1382 + +Against the strangers' coming / her heart with joy flowed o'er: +Eke was thereto devoted / of wealth a mickle store. +Who might e'er give the picture, / how the king eft sat on throne? +Nor had with any mistress / the Huns such joyous living known. + +1383 + +As with his spouse the monarch / up from the river came, +Unto the noble Kriemhild / of each they told the name +'Mong them that she did find there: / she fairer each did greet. +Ah, how mighty mistress / she long did sit in Helke's seat! + +1384 + +Ready and true the service / to her was offered there. +The queen dealt out in plenty / gold and raiment rare, +Silver eke and jewels. / What over Rhine she brought +With her unto Hunland, / soon thereof retained she naught. + +1385 + +Eke in faithful service / she to herself did win +All the king's warriors / and all his royal kin, +--So that ne'er did Lady Helke / so mighty power wield +As until death to Kriemhild / such host did willing service yield. + +1386 + +Thus stood so high in honor / the court and country round, +That there at every season / was pleasant pastime found +By each, whithersoever / his heart's desire might stand: +That wrought the monarch's favor / and the queen's full bounteous hand. + + + + +TWENTY-THIRD ADVENTURE + +How Kriemhild thought to avenge her Wrong + +1387 + +In full lordly honor, / --truth is that ye hear-- +Dwelt they with each other / until the seventh year. +Meanwhile Lady Kriemhild / a son to Etzel bore, +Nor gladder might the monarch / be o'er aught for evermore. + +1388 + +Yet would she not give over, / nor with aught be reconciled, +But that should be baptized / the royal Etzel's child +After Christian custom: / Ortlieb they did him call. +Thereat was mickle joyance / over Etzel's borders all. + +1389 + +Whate'er of highest virtues / in Lady Helke lay, +Strove the Lady Kriemhild / to rival her each day. +Herrat the stranger maiden / many a grace she taught, +Who yet with secret pining / for her mistress Helke was distraught. + +1390 + +To stranger and to native / full well she soon was known, +Ne'er monarch's country, said they, / did royal mistress own +That gave with freer bounty, / that held they without fear. +Such praise she bore in Hunland, / until was come the thirteenth year. + +1391 + +Now had she well perceived / how all obeyed her will, +As service to royal mistress / king's knights do render still, +And how at every season / twelve kings 'fore her were seen. +She thought of many a sorrow / that wrought upon her once had been. + +1392 + +Eke thought she of lordly power / in Nibelungenland +That she erstwhile had wielded, / and how that Hagen's hand +Of it all had reft her / with her lord Siegfried dead; +She thought for so great evil / how might he ever be repaid. + +1393 + +"'Twould be, might I but bring him / hither into this land." +She dreamed that fondly led her / full often by the hand +Giselher her brother, / full oft in gentle sleep +Thought she to have kissed him, / wherefrom he sorrow soon must reap. + +1394 + +I ween the evil demon / was Kriemhild's counsellor +That she her peace with Gunther / should sacred keep no more, +Whom she kissed in friendly token / in the land of Burgundy. +Adown upon her bosom / the burning tears fell heavily. + +1395 + +On her heart both late and early / lay the heavy thought, +How that, herself all guiltless, / thereto she had been brought, +That she must share in exile / a heathen monarch's bed. +Through Hagen eke and Gunther / come she was to such sore need. + +1396 + +From her heart such longing / seldom might she dismiss. +Thought she: "A queen so mighty / I am o'er wealth like this, +That I upon mine enemies / may yet avenge me well. +Fain were I that on Hagen / of Tronje yet my vengeance fell. + +1397 + +"For friends that once were faithful / full oft my heart doth long. +Were they but here beside me / that wrought on me such wrong, +Then were in sooth avenged / my lover reft of life; +Scarce may I bide that hour," / spake the royal Etzel's wife. + +1398 + +Kriemhild they loved and honored, / the monarch's men each one, +As they that came there with her: / well might the same be done. +The treasure wielded Eckewart, / and won good knights thereby. +The will of Lady Kriemhild might / none in all that land deny. + +1399 + +She mused at every season: / "The king himself I'll pray,"-- +That he to her the favor / might grant in friendly way, +To bring her kinsmen hither / unto Hunland. +What vengeful thought she cherished / might none soever understand. + +1400 + +As she in stillest night-time / by the monarch lay +(In his arms enclosed he held her, / as he was wont alway +To caress the noble lady: / she was to him as life), +Again unto her enemies / turned her thoughts his stately wife. + +1401 + +She spake unto the monarch: / "My lord full dear to me, +Now would I pray a favor, / if with thy grace it be, +That thou wilt show unto me / if merit such be mine +That unto my good kinsmen / truly doth thy heart incline." + +1402 + +The mighty monarch answered / (from guile his heart was free): +"Of a truth I tell thee, / if aught of good may be +The fortune of thy kinsmen, / --of that I were full fain, +For ne'er through love of woman / might I friends more faithful gain." + +1403 + +Thereat again spake Kriemhild: / "That mayst thou well believe, +Full high do stand my kinsmen; / the more it doth me grieve +That they deign so seldom / hither to take their way. +That here I live a stranger, / oft I hear the people say." + +1404 + +Then spake the royal Etzel: / "Beloved lady mine, +Seemed not too far the journey, / I'd bid from yond the Rhine +Whom thou wouldst gladly welcome / hither unto my land." +Thereat rejoiced the lady / when she his will did understand. + +1405 + +Spake she: "Wilt thou true favor / show me, master mine, +Then shall thou speed thy messengers / to Worms across the Rhine. +Were but my friends acquainted / what thing of them I would, +Then to this land came hither / full many a noble knight and good." + +1406 + +He spake: "Whene'er thou biddest, / straight the thing shall be. +Thyself mightst ne'er thy kinsmen / here so gladly see, +As I the sons of Ute, / high and stately queen. +It grieveth me full sorely / that strangers here so long they've been. + +1407 + +"If this thing doth please thee, / beloved lady mine, +Then gladly send I thither / unto those friends of thine +As messengers my minstrels / to the land of Burgundy." +He bade the merry fiddlers / lead before him presently. + +1408 + +Then hastened they full quickly / to where they found the king +By side of Kriemhild sitting. / He told them straight the thing, +How they should be his messengers / to Burgundy to fare. +Full stately raiment bade he / for them straightway eke prepare. + +1409 + +Four and twenty warriors / did they apparel well. +Likewise did the monarch / to them the message tell, +How that they King Gunther / and his men should bid aright. +Them eke the Lady Kriemhild / to secret parley did invite. + +1410 + +Then spake the mighty monarch: / "Now well my words attend. +All good and friendly greeting / unto my friends I send, +That they may deign to journey / hither to my country. +Few be the guests beside them / that were so welcome unto me. + +1411 + +"And if they be so minded / to meet my will in aught, +Kriemhild's lofty kinsmen, / that they forego it not +To come upon the summer / here where I hold hightide, +For that my joy in living / doth greatly with my friends abide." + +1412 + +Then spake the fiddle-player, / Schwemmelein full bold: +"When thinkst thou in this country / such high feast to hold, +That unto thy friends yonder / tell the same we may?" +Thereto spake King Etzel: / "When next hath come midsummer day." + +1413 + +"We'll do as thou commandest," / spake then Werbelein. +Unto her own chamber / commanded then the queen +To bring in secret manner / the messengers alone. +Thereby did naught but sorrow / befall full many a thane anon. + +1414 + +She spake unto the messengers: / "Mickle wealth I give to you, +If my will in this matter / right faithfully ye do, +And bear what tidings send I / home unto our country. +I'll make you rich in treasure / and fair apparelled shall ye be. + +1415 + +"And friends of mine so many / as ever see ye may +At Worms by Rhine river, / to them ye ne'er shall say +That any mood of sorrow / in me ye yet have seen. +Say ye that I commend me / unto the knights full brave and keen." + +1416 + +"Pray them that to King Etzel's / message they give heed, +Thereby to relieve me / of all my care and need, +Else shall the Huns imagine / that I all friendless am. +If I but a knight were, / oft would they see me at their home. + +1417 + +"Eke say ye unto Gernot, / brother to me full dear, +To him might never any / disposed be more fair; +Pray him that he bring hither / unto this country +All our friends most steadfast, / that we thereby shall honored be. + +1418 + +"Say further eke to Giselher / that he do have in mind, +That by his guilt I never / did cause for sorrow find; +Him therefore would I gladly / here with mine own eyes see, +And give him warmest welcome, / so faithful hath he been to me. + +1419 + +"How I am held in honor, / to my mother eke make plain. +And if of Tronje Hagen / hath mind there to remain, +By whom might they in coming / through unknown lands be shown? +The way to Hunland hither / from youth to him hath well been known." + +1420 + +No whit knew the messengers / wherefore she did advise +That they of Tronje Hagen / should not in any wise +Leave by the Rhine to tarry. / That was anon their bane: +Through him to dire destruction / was doomed full many a doughty thane. + +1421 + +Letters and kindly greeting / now to them they give; +They fared from thence rich laden, / and merrily might live. +Leave then they took of Etzel / and eke his lady fair, +And parted on their journey / dight in apparel rich and rare. + + + + +TWENTY-FOURTH ADVENTURE + +How Werbel and Schwemmel brought the Message + +1422 + +When to the Rhine King Etzel / his messengers had sent, +With hasty flight fresh tidings / from land to land there went: +With messengers full quickly / to his high festival +He bade them, eke and summoned. / To many thereby did death befall. + +1423 + +The messengers o'er the borders / of Hunland thence did fare +Unto the land of Burgundy; / thither sent they were +Unto three lordly monarchs / and eke their mighty men. +To Etzel's land to bid them / hastily they journeyed then. + +1424 + +Unto Bechelaren / rode they on their way, +Where found they willing service. / Nor did aught delay +Ruediger to commend him / and Gotelinde as well +And eke their fairest daughter / to them that by the Rhine did dwell. + +1425 + +They let them not unladen / with gifts from thence depart, +So did the men of Etzel / fare on with lighter heart. +To Ute and to her household / sent greeting Ruediger, +That never margrave any / to them more well disposed were. + +1426 + +Unto Brunhild also / did they themselves commend +With willing service offered / and steadfast to the end. +Bearing thus fair greeting / the messengers thence did fare, +And prayed the noble margravine / that God would have them in his care. + +1427 + +Ere the messengers had fully / passed o'er Bavarian ground, +Had the nimble Werbel / the goodly bishop found. +What greetings to his kinsmen / unto the Rhine he sent, +That I cannot tell you; / the messengers yet from him went + +1428 + +Laden with gold all ruddy, / to keep his memory. +Thus spake the Bishop Pilgrim: / "'Twere highest joy to me +Might I my sister's children / here see in home of mine, +For that I may but seldom / go unto them to the Rhine." + +1429 + +What were the ways they followed / as through the lands they fared, +That can I nowise tell you. / Yet never any dared +Rob them of wealth or raiment, / for fear of Etzel's hand: +A lofty king and noble, / mighty in sooth was his command. + +1430 + +Before twelve days were over / came they unto the Rhine, +And rode into Worms city / Werbel and Schwemmelein. +Told were soon the tidings / to the kings and their good men, +How that were come strange messengers. / Gunther the king did question + then. + +1431 + +And spake the monarch further: / "Who here may understand +Whence do come these strangers / riding unto our land?" +Yet was never any / might answer to him make, +Until of Tronje Hagen / thus unto King Gunther spake: + +1432 + +"To us hath come strange tidings / to hand this day, I ween, +For Etzel's fiddlers riding / hither have I seen. +The same have by thy sister / unto the Rhine been sent: +For sake of their high master / now give we them fair compliment." + +1433 + +E'en then did ride the messengers / unto the castle door, +And never royal minstrels / more stately went before. +By the monarch's servants / well received they were: +They gave them fitting lodging / and for their raiment had a care. + +1434 + +Rich and wrought full deftly / was the travelling-dress they wore, +Wherein they well with honor / might go the king before; +Yet they at court no longer / would the same garments wear. +The messengers inquired / if any were might wish them there. + +1435 + +In sooth in such condition / many eke were found, +Who would receive them gladly; / to such they dealt around. +Then decked themselves the strangers / in garments richer far, +Such as royal messengers / beseemeth well at court to wear. + +1436 + +By royal leave came forward / to where the monarch sat +The men that came from Etzel, / and joy there was thereat. +Hagen then to meet them / in courteous manner went, +And heartily did greet them, / whereat they gave fair compliment. + +1437 + +To know what were the tidings, / to ask he then began +How did find him Etzel / and each valiant man. +Then answer gave the fiddler: / "Ne'er higher stood the land, +Nor the folk so joyous: / that shall ye surely understand." + +1438 + +They went unto the monarch. / Crowded was the hall. +There were received the strangers / as of right men shall +Kindly greeting offer / in other monarch's land. +Many a valiant warrior / saw Werbel by King Gunther stand. + +1439 + +Right courteously the monarch / began to greet them then: +"Now be ye both right welcome, / Hunland's merry men, +And knights that give you escort. / Hither sent are ye +By Etzel mighty monarch / unto the land of Burgundy?" + +1440 + +They bowed before the monarch; / then spake Werbelein: +"My dear lord and master, / and Kriemhild, sister thine, +Hither to thy country / give fairest compliment. +In faith of kindly welcome / us unto you they now have sent." + +1441 + +Then spake the lofty ruler: / "I joy o'er this ye bring. +How liveth royal Etzel," / further spake the king, +"And Kriemhild, my sister, / afar in Hunland?" +Then answered him the fiddler: / "That shalt thou straightway understand. + +1442 + +"That never any people / more lordly life might show +Than they both do joy in, / --that shalt thou surely know,-- +Wherein do share their kinsmen / and all their doughty train. +When from them we parted, / of our journey were they fain." + +1443 + +"My thanks for these high greetings / ye bring at his command +And from my royal sister. / That high in joy they stand, +The monarch and his kinsmen, / rejoiceth me to hear. +For, sooth to say, the tidings / asked I now in mickle fear." + +1444 + +The twain of youthful princes / were eke come thitherward, +As soon as they the tidings / from afar had heard. +Right glad were seen the messengers / for his dear sister's sake +By the young Giselher, / who in such friendly manner spake: + +1445 + +"Right hearty were your welcome / from me and brother mine, +Would ye but more frequent / ride hither to the Rhine; +Here found ye friends full many / whom glad ye were to see, +And naught but friendly favors / the while that in this land ye be." + +1446 + +"To us how high thy favor," / spake Schwemmel, "know we well; +Nor with my best endeavor / might I ever tell +How kindly is the greeting / we bear from Etzel's hand +And from your noble sister, / who doth in highest honor stand. + +1447 + +"Your sometime love and duty / recalleth Etzel's queen, +And how to her devoted / in heart we've ever been, +But first to royal Gunther / do we a message bear, +And pray it be your pleasure / unto Etzel's land to fare. + +1448 + +"To beg of you that favor / commanded o'er and o'er +Etzel mighty monarch / and bids you know the more, +An will ye not your sister / your faces give to see, +So would he know full gladly / wherein by him aggrieved ye be, + +1449 + +"That ye thus are strangers / to him and all his men. +If that his spouse so lofty / to you had ne'er been known, +Yet well he thought to merit / that him ye'd deign to see; +In sooth could naught rejoice him / more than that such thing might be." + +1450 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "A sennight from this day +Shall ye have an answer, / whereon decide I may +With my friends in counsel. / The while shall ye repair +Unto your place of lodging, / and right goodly be your fare." + +1451 + +Then spake in answer Werbel: / "And might such favor be +That we the royal mistress / should first have leave to see, +Ute, the lofty lady, / ere that we seek our rest?" +To him the noble Giselher / in courteous wise these words addressed. + +1452 + +"That grace shall none forbid you. / Will ye my mother greet, +Therein do ye most fully / her own desire meet. +For sake of my good sister / fain is she you to see, +For sake of Lady Kriemhild / ye shall to her full welcome be." + +1453 + +Giselher then led him / unto the lofty dame, +Who fain beheld the messengers / from Hunland that came. +She greeted them full kindly / as lofty manner taught, +And in right courteous fashion / told they to her the tale they brought. + +1454 + +"Pledge of loyal friendship / sendeth unto thee +Now my lofty mistress," / spake Schwemmel. "Might it be, +That she should see thee often, / then shalt thou know full well, +In all the world there never / a greater joy to her befell." + +1455 + +Replied the royal lady: / "Such thing may never be. +Gladly as would I oft-times / my dearest daughter see, +Too far, alas, is distant / the noble monarch's wife. +May ever yet full happy / with King Etzel be her life. + +1456 + +"See that ye well advise me, / ere that ye hence are gone, +What time shall be your parting; / for messengers I none +Have seen for many seasons / as glad as greet I you." +The twain gave faithful promise / such courtesy full sure to do. + +1457 + +Forthwith to seek their lodgings / the men of Hunland went, +The while the mighty monarch / for trusted warriors sent, +Of whom did noble Gunther / straightway question make, +How thought they of the message. / Whereupon full many spake + +1458 + +That he might well with honor / to Etzel's land be bound, +The which did eke advise him / the highest 'mongst them found, +All save Hagen only, / whom sorely grieved such rede. +Unto the king in secret / spake he: "Ill shall be thy meed. + +1459 + +"What deed we twain compounded / art thou full well aware, +Wherefor good cause we ever / shall have Kriemhild to fear, +For that her sometime husband / I slew by my own hand. +How dare we ever journey / then unto King Etzel's land?" + +1460 + +Replied the king: "My sister / no hate doth harbor more. +As we in friendship kissed her, / vengeance she forswore +For evil that we wrought her, / ere that from hence she rode,-- +Unless this message, Hagen, / ill for thee alone forebode." + +1461 + +"Now be thou not deceived," / spake Hagen, "say what may +The messengers from Hunland. / If thither be thy way, +At Kriemhild's hands thou losest / honor eke and life, +For full long-avenging / is the royal Etzel's wife." + +1462 + +Added then his counsel / the princely Gernot there: +"Though be it thou hast reason / thine own death to fear +Afar in Hunnish kingdom, / should we for that forego +To visit our high sister, / that were in sooth but ill to do." + +1463 + +Unto that thane did likewise / Giselher then say: +"Since well thou know'st, friend Hagen, / what guilt on thee doth weigh, +Then tarry here behind us / and of thyself have care, +And let who dares the journey / with us unto my sister fare." + +1464 + +Thereat did rage full sorely / Tronje's doughty thane: +"So shall ye ne'er find any / that were to go more fain, +Nor who may better guide you / than I upon your way. +And will ye not give over, / know then my humor soon ye may." + +1465 + +Then spake the Kitchen Master, / Rumold a lofty thane: +"Here might ye guests and kinsmen / in plenty long maintain +After your own pleasure, / for ye have goodly store. +I ween ye ne'er found Hagen / traitor to you heretofore. + +1466 + +"If heed ye will not Hagen, / still Rumold doth advise +--For ye have faithful service / from me in willing wise-- +That here at home ye tarry / for the love of me, +And leave the royal Etzel / afar with Kriemhild to be. + +1467 + +"Where in the world might ever / ye more happy be +Than here where from danger / of every foeman free, +Where ye may go as likes you / in goodliest attire, +Drink wine the best, and stately / women meet your heart's desire. + +1468 + +"And daily is your victual / the best that ever knew +A king of any country. / And were the thing not true, +At home ye yet should tarry / for sake of your fair wife +Ere that in childish fashion / ye thus at venture set your life. + +1469 + +"Thus rede I that ye go not. / Mighty are your lands, +And at home more easy may ye / be freed from hostile hands +Than if ye pine in Hunland. / How there it is, who knows? +O Master, go not thither, / --such is the rede that Rumold owes." + +1470 + +"We'll ne'er give o'er the journey," / Gernot then did say, +"When thus our sister bids us / in such friendly way +And Etzel, mighty monarch. / Wherefore should we refrain? +Who goes not gladly thither, / here at home may he remain." + +1471 + +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "Take not amiss, I pray, +These my words outspoken, / let befall what may. +Yet do I counsel truly, / as ye your safety prize, +That to the Huns ye journey / armed full well in warlike guise. + +1472 + +"Will ye then not give over, / your men together call, +The best that ye may gather / from districts one and all. +From out them all I'll choose you / a thousand knights full good, +Then may ye reck but little / the vengeful Kriemhild's angry mood." + +1473 + +"I'll gladly heed thy counsel," / straight the king replied, +And bade the couriers traverse / his kingdom far and wide. +Soon they brought together / three thousand men or more, +Who little weened what mickle / sorrow was for them in store. + +1474 + +Joyful came they riding / to King Gunther's land. +Steeds and equipment for them / all he did command, +Who should make the journey / thence from Burgundy. +Warriors many were there / to serve the king right willingly. + +1475 + +Hagen then of Tronje / to Dankwart did assign +Of their warriors eighty / to lead unto the Rhine. +Equipped in knightly harness / were they soon at hand. +Riding in gallant fashion / unto royal Gunther's land. + +1476 + +Came eke the doughty Volker, / a noble minstrel he, +With thirty goodly warriors / to join the company, +Who wore so rich attire / 'twould fit a monarch well. +That he would fare to Hunland, / bade he unto Gunther tell. + +1477 + +Who was this same Volker / that will I let you know: +He was a knight full noble, / to him did service owe +Many a goodly warrior / in the land of Burgundy. +For that he well could fiddle, / named the Minstrel eke was he. + +1478 + +Thousand men chose Hagen, / who well to him were known. +What things in storm of battle / their doughty arm had done, +Or what they wrought at all times, / that knew he full well. +Nor of them might e'er mortal / aught but deeds of valor tell. + +1479 + +The messengers of Kriemhild, / full loath they were to wait, +For of their master's anger / stood they in terror great. +Each day for leave to journey / more great their yearning grew, +But daily to withhold it / crafty Hagen pretext knew. + +1480 + +He spake unto his master: / "Well shall we beware +Hence to let them journey / ere we ourselves prepare +In seven days thereafter / to ride to Etzel's land: +If any mean us evil, / so may we better understand. + +1481 + +"Nor may the Lady Kriemhild / ready make thereto, +That any by her counsel / scathe to us may do. +Yet if such wish she cherish, / evil shall be her meed, +For many a chosen warrior / with us shall we thither lead." + +1482 + +Shields well-wrought and saddles, / with all the mickle gear +That into Etzel's country / the warriors should wear, +The same was now made ready / for many a knight full keen. +The messengers of Kriemhild / before King Gunther soon were seen. + +1483 + +When were come the messengers, / Gernot them addressed: +"King Gunther now is minded / to answer Etzel's quest. +Full gladly go we thither / with him to make high-tide +And see our lofty sister, / --of that set ye all doubt aside." + +1484 + +Thereto spake King Gunther: / "Can ye surely say +When shall be the high-tide, / or upon what day +We shall there assemble?" / Spake Schwemmel instantly: +"At turn of sun in summer / shall in sooth the meeting be." + +1485 + +The monarch leave did grant them, / ere they should take their way, +If that to Lady Brunhild / they would their homage pay, +His high pleasure was it / they unto her should go. +Such thing prevented Volker, / and did his mistress' pleasure so. + +1486 + +"In sooth, my Lady Brunhild / hath scarce such health to-day +As that she might receive you," / the gallant knight did say. +"Bide ye till the morrow, / may ye the lady see." +When thus they sought her presence, / might their wish not granted be. + +1487 + +To the messengers right gracious / was the mighty king, +And bade he from his treasure / on shields expansive bring +Shining gold in plenty / whereof he had great store. +Eke richest gifts received they / from his lofty kinsmen more. + +1488 + +Giselher and Gernot, / Gere and Ortwein, +That they were free in giving / soon full well was seen. +So costly gifts were offered / unto each messenger +That they dared not receive them, / for Etzel's anger did they fear. + +1489 + +Then unto King Gunther / Werbel spake again: +Sire, let now thy presents / in thine own land remain. +The same we may not carry, / my master hath decreed +That we accept no bounty. / Of that in sooth we've little need." + +1490 + +Thereat the lord of Rhineland / was seen in high displeasure, +That they should thus accept not / so mighty monarch's treasure? +In their despite yet took they / rich dress and gold in store, +The which moreover with them / home to Etzel's land they bore. + +1491 + +Ere that they thence departed / they Lady Ute sought, +Whereat the gallant Giselher / straight the minstrels brought +Unto his mother's presence. / Kind greetings sent the dame, +And wish that high in honor / still might stand her daughter's name. + +1492 + +Then bade the lofty lady / embroidered silks and gold +For the sake of Kriemhild, / whom loved she as of old, +And eke for sake of Etzel, / unto the minstrels give. +What thus so free was offered / might they in sooth right fain receive. + +1493 + +Soon now had ta'en departure / the messengers from thence, +From knight and fairest lady, / and joyous fared they hence +Unto Suabian country; / Gernot had given behest +Thus far for armed escort, / that none their journey might molest. + +1494 + +When these had parted from them, / safe still from harm were they, +For Etzel's might did guard them / wherever led their way. +Nor ever came there any / that aught to take would dare, +As into Etzel's country / they in mickle haste did fare. + +1495 + +Where'er they friends encountered, / to all they straight made known +How that they of Burgundy / should follow after soon +From Rhine upon their journey / unto the Huns' country. +The message brought they likewise / unto Bishop Pilgrim's see. + +1496 + +As down 'fore Bechelaren / they passed upon their way, +The tidings eke to Ruediger / failed they not to say, +And unto Gotelinde, / the margrave's wife the same. +At thought so soon to see them / was filled with joy the lofty dame. + +1497 + +Hasting with the tidings / each minstrel's courser ran, +Till found they royal Etzel / within his burgh at Gran. +Greeting upon greeting, / which they must all bestow, +They to the king delivered; / with joy his visage was aglow. + +1498 + +When that the lofty Kriemhild / did eke the tidings hear, +How that her royal brothers / unto the land would fare, +In sooth her heart was gladdened; / on the minstrels she bestowed +Richest gifts in plenty, / as she to her high station owed. + +1499 + +She spake: "Now shall ye, Werbel / and Schwemmel, tell to me +Who cometh of my kinsmen / to our festivity, +Who of all were bidden / this our land to seek? +Now tell me, when the message / heard he, what did Hagen speak?" + +1500 + +Answered: "He came to council / early upon a day, +But little was of pleasant / in what he there did say. +When learned he their intention, / in wrath did Hagen swear, +To death 'twere making journey, / to country of the Huns to fare. + +1501 + +"Hither all are coming, / thy royal brothers three, +And they right high in spirit. / Who more shall with them be, +The tale to tell entire / were more than I might do. +To journey with them plighted / Volker the valiant fiddler too." + +1502 + +"'Twere little lost, full truly," / answered then the queen, +"If by my eyes never / Volker here were seen. +'Tis Hagen hath my favor, / a noble knight is he, +And mickle is my pleasure / that him full soon we here may see." + +1503 + +Her way the Lady Kriemhild / then to the king did take, +And in right joyous manner / unto her consort spake: +"How liketh thee the tidings, / lord full dear to me? +What aye my heart hath yearned for, / that shall now accomplished be." + +1504 + +"Thy will my joy was ever," / the lofty monarch said. +"In sooth for my own kinsmen / I ne'er have been so glad, +To hear that they come hither / unto my country. +To know thy friends are coming, / hath parted sadness far from me." + +1505 + +Straight did the royal provosts / give everywhere decree +That hall and stately palace / well prepared should be +With seats, that unprovided / no worthy guest be left. +Anon by them the monarch / should be of mickle joy bereft. + + + + +TWENTY-FIFTH ADVENTURE + +How the Knights all fared to the Huns + +1506 + +Tell we now no further / how they here did fare. +Knights more high in spirit / saw ye journey ne'er +In so stately fashion / to the land of e'er a king. +Of arms and rich attire / lacked they never anything. + +1507 + +At Rhine the lordly monarch / equipped his warriors well, +A thousand knights and sixty, / as I did hear tell, +And eke nine thousand squires / toward the festivity. +Whom they did leave behind them / anon must mourn full grievously. + +1508 + +As at Worms across the courtyard / equipment full they bore +Spake there of Speyer / a bishop old and hoar +Unto Lady Ute: / "Our friends have mind to fare +Unto the festivity; / may God their honor have in care." + +1509 + +Then spake unto her children / Ute the noble dame: +"At home ye here should tarry, / ye knights full high in fame. +Me dreamt but yester even / a case of direst need, +How that in this country / all the feathered fowl were dead." + +1510 + +"Who recketh aught of dreamings," / Hagen then replied, +"Distraught is sure his counsel / when trouble doth betide, +Or he would of his honor / have a perfect care. +I counsel that my master / straight to take his leave prepare. + +1511 + +"Gladly shall we journey / into Etzel's land; +There at their master's service / may good knights ready stand, +For that we there shall witness / Kriemhild's festivity." +That Hagen gave such counsel, / rue anon full sore did he. + +1512 + +Yet in sooth far other / than this had been his word, +Had not with bitter mocking / Gernot his anger stirred. +He spake to him of Siegfried / whom Kriemhild loved so, +And said: "Therefore the journey / would Hagen willingly forego." + +1513 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Through fear I nothing do. +Whenever will ye, Masters, / set straight your hand thereto, +With you I'll gladly journey / unto Etzel's land." +Many a shield and helmet / there hewed anon his mighty hand. + +1514 + +The ships stood ready waiting, / whereunto ample store +Of clothing for the journey / men full many bore, +Nor had they time for resting / till shades of even fell. +Anon in mood full joyous / bade they friends at home farewell. + +1515 + +Tents full large and many / arose upon the green, +Yonder side Rhine river. / But yet the winsome queen +Caressed the doughty monarch / that night, and still did pray +That far from Etzel's country / among his kinsmen might he stay. + +1516 + +When sound of flute and trumpet / arose at break of day, +A signal for their parting, / full soon they took their way. +Each lover to his bosom / did friend more fondly press: +King Etzel's wife full many / did part anon in dire distress. + +1517 + +The sons of stately Ute, / a good knight had they, +A brave man and a faithful. / When they would thence away, +Apart unto the monarch / did he his mind reveal, +And spake: "That ye will journey, / may I naught but sorrow feel." + +1518 + +Hight the same was Rumold, / a man of doughty hand. +He spake: "To whom now leave ye / people here and land? +O that never any / might alter your intent! +Small good, methinks, may follow / message e'er by Kriemhild sent." + +1519 + +"The land to thee entrusted / and eke my child shall be, +And tender care of ladies, / --so hast command from me. +Whene'er thou seest weeping, / do there thy comfort give. +Yea, trust we free from sorrow / at hand of Etzel's wife to live." + +1520 + +For knight and royal master / the chargers ready were, +As with fond embracing / parted many there, +Who long in joy together / a merry life had led. +By winsome dame full many / therefor must bitter tear be shed. + +1521 + +As did those doughty warriors / into the saddle spring, +Might full many a lady / be seen there sorrowing; +For told them well their spirit / that thus so long to part +Did bode a dire peril, / the which must ever cloud the heart. + +1522 + +As mounted stood the valiant / thanes of Burgundy, +Might ye a mickle stirring / in that country see, +Both men and women weeping / on either riverside. +Yet pricked they gaily forward, / let what might their folk betide. + +1523 + +The Nibelungen warriors / in hauberks bright arrayed +Went with them, a thousand, / while at home behind them stayed +Full many a winsome lady, / whom saw they nevermore. +The wounds of doughty Siegfried / still grieved the Lady Kriemhild sore. + +1524 + +Their journey they directed / onward to the Main, +Up through East Frankish country, / the men of Gunther's train +Thither led by Hagen, / who well that country knew; +Marshal to them was Dankwart, / a knight of Burgundy full true. + +1525 + +On from East Frankish country / to Schwanefeld they went, +A train of valiant warriors / of high accomplishment, +The monarchs and their kinsmen, / all knights full worthy fame. +Upon the twelfth morning / the king unto the Danube came. + +1526 + +The knight of Tronje, Hagen, / the very van did lead, +Ever to the Nibelungen / a surest help in need. +First the thane full valiant / down leapt upon the ground, +And straightway then his charger / fast unto a tree he bound. + +1527 + +Flooded were the waters / and ne'er a boat was near, +Whereat began the Nibelungen / all in dread to fear +They ne'er might cross the river, / so mighty was the flood. +Dismounted on the shore, / full many a stately knight then stood. + +1528 + +"Ill may it," spake then Hagen, / "fare here with thee, +Lord of Rhine river. / Now thyself mayst see +How flooded are the waters, / and swift the current flows. +I ween, before the morrow / here many a goodly knight we lose." + +1529 + +"How wilt reproach me, Hagen?" / the lofty monarch spake. +I pray thee yet all comfort / not from our hearts to take. +The ford shalt thou discover / whereby we may pass o'er, +Horse and equipment bringing / safely unto yonder shore." + +1530 + +"In sooth, not I," quoth Hagen, / "am yet so weary grown +Of life, that in these waters / wide I long to drown. +Ere that, shall warriors sicken / in Etzel's far country +Beneath my own arm stricken: / --'tis my intent full certainly. + +1531 + +"Here tarry by the water, / ye gallant knights and good, +The while I seek the boatmen / myself along the flood, +Who will bring us over / into Gelfrat's land." +With that the doughty Hagen / took his trusty shield in hand. + +1532 + +He cap-a-pie was armed, / as thus he strode away, +Upon his head a helmet / that gleamed with brilliant ray, +And o'er his warlike harness / a sword full broad there hung, +That on both its edges / did fiercely cut, in battle swung. + +1533 + +He sought to find the boatmen / if any might be near, +When sound of falling waters / full soon upon his ear. +Beside a rippling fountain, / where ran the waters cool, +A group of wise mermaidens / did bathe themselves within the pool. + +1534 + +Ware of them soon was Hagen / and stole in secret near, +But fast away they hurried / when they the sound did hear. +That they at all escaped him, / filled they were with glee. +The knight did take their clothing, / yet wrought none other injury. + +1535 + +Then spake the one mermaiden, / Hadburg that hight: +"Hagen, knight full noble, / tell will we thee aright, +An wilt thou, valiant warrior, / our garments but give o'er, +What fortune may this journey / to Hunland have for thee in store." + +1536 + +They hovered there before him / like birds above the flood, +Wherefore did think the warrior / that tell strange things they could, +And all the more believed he / what they did feign to say, +As to his eager question / in ready manner answered they. + +1537 + +Spake one: "Well may ye journey / to Etzel's country. +Thereto my troth I give thee / in full security +That ne'er in any kingdom / might high guests receive +Such honors as there wait you, / --this may ye in sooth believe." + +1538 + +To hear such speech was Hagen / in sooth right glad of heart; +He gave to them their garments, / and straightway would depart. +But when in strange attire / they once more were dight, +Told they of the journey / into Etzel's land aright. + +1539 + +Spake then the other mermaid, / Siegelind that hight: +"I warn thee, son of Aldrian, / Hagen valiant knight, +'Twas but to gain her clothing / my cousin falsely said, +For, comest thou to Hunland, / sorely shalt thou be betrayed. + +1540 + +"Yea, that thou turnest backward / is fitter far, I ween; +For but your death to compass / have all ye warriors keen +Received now the bidding / unto Etzel's land. +Whose doth thither journey, / death leadeth surely by the hand." + +1541 + +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "False speech hath here no gain. +How might it ever happen / that we all were slain +Afar in Etzel's country / through hate of any man?" +To tell the tale more fully / unto him she then began. + +1542 + +Spake again the other: / "The thing must surely be, +That of you never any / his home again shall see, +Save only the king's chaplain; / well do we understand +That he unscathed returneth / unto royal Gunther's land." + +1543 + +Then spake the valiant Hagen / again in angry way: +"Unto my royal masters / 'twere little joy to say +That we our lives must forfeit / all in Hunland. +Now show us, wisest woman, / how pass we safe to yonder strand." + +1544 + +She spake: "Since from thy purposed / journey thou wilt not turn, +Where upward by the water / a cabin stands, there learn +Within doth dwell a boatman, / nor other find thou mayst." +No more did Hagen question, / but strode away from there in haste. + +1545 + +As went he angry-minded / one from afar did say: +"Now tarry still, Sir Hagen; / why so dost haste away? +Give ear yet while we tell thee / how thou reachest yonder strand. +Master here is Else, / who doth rule this borderland. + +1546 + +"Hight is his brother Gelfrat, / and is a thane full rare, +Lord o'er Bavarian country. / Full ill with you 'twill fare, +Will ye pass his border. / Watchful must ye be, +And eke with the ferryman / 'twere well to walk right modestly. + +1547 + +"He is so angry-minded / that sure thy bane 'twill be, +Wilt thou not show the warrior / all civility. +Wilt thou that he transport thee, / give all the boatman's due. +He guardeth well the border / and unto Gelfrat is full true. + +1548 + +"If he be slow to answer, / then call across the flood +That thy name is Amelrich. / That was a knight full good, +Who for a feud did sometime / go forth from out this land. +The ferryman will answer, / when he the name doth understand. + +1549 + +Hagen high of spirit / before those women bent, +Nor aught did say, but silent / upon his way he went. +Along the shore he wandered / till higher by the tide +On yonder side the river / a cabin standing he espied. + +1550 + +He straight began a calling / across the flood amain. +"Now fetch me over, boatman," / cried the doughty thane. +"A golden armband ruddy / I'll give to thee for meed. +Know that to make this crossing / I in sooth have very need." + +1551 + +Not fitting 'twas high ferryman / his service thus should give, +And recompense from any / seldom might he receive; +Eke were they that served him / full haughty men of mood. +Still alone stood Hagen / on the hither side the flood. + +1552 + +Then cried he with such power / the wave gave back the sound, +For in strength far-reaching / did the knight abound: +"Fetch me now, for Amelrich, / Else's man, am I, +That for feud outbroken / erstwhile from this land did fly." + +1553 + +Full high upon his sword-point / an armband did he hold, +Fair and shining was it / made of ruddy gold, +The which he offered to him / for fare to Gelfrat's land. +The ferryman high-hearted / himself did take the oar in hand. + +1554 + +To do with that same boatman / was ne'er a pleasant thing; +The yearning after lucre / yet evil end doth bring. +Here where thought he Hagen's / gold so red to gain, +Must he by the doughty / warrior's fierce sword be slain. + +1555 + +With might across the river / his oar the boatman plied, +But he who there was named / might nowhere be espied. +His rage was all unbounded / when he did Hagen find, +And loud his voice resounded / as thus he spake his angry mind: + +1556 + +"Thou mayst forsooth be called / Amelrich by name: +Whom I here did look for, / no whit art thou the same. +By father and by mother / brother he was to me. +Since me thou thus hast cozened, / so yet this side the river be." + +1557 + +"Nay, by highest Heaven," / Hagen did declare. +"Here am I a stranger / that have good knights in care. +Now take in friendly manner / here my offered pay, +And guide me o'er the ferry; / my favor hast thou thus alway." + +1558 + +Whereat replied the boatman: / "The thing may never be. +There are that to my masters / do bear hostility; +Wherefore I never stranger / do lead into this land. +As now thy life thou prizest, / step straightway out upon the strand." + +1559 + +"Deny me not," quoth Hagen, / "for sad in sooth my mood. +Take now for remembrance / this my gold so good, +And carry men a thousand / and horses to yonder shore." +Quoth in rage the boatman: / "Such thing will happen nevermore." + +1560 + +Aloft he raised an oar / that mickle was and strong, +And dealt such blow on Hagen, / (but rued he that ere long,) +That in the boat did stumble / that warrior to his knee. +In sooth so savage boatman / ne'er did the knight of Tronje see. + +1561 + +With thought the stranger's anger / the more to rouse anew, +He swung a mighty boat-pole / that it in pieces flew +Upon the crown of Hagen;-- / he was a man of might. +Thereby did Else's boatman / come anon to sorry plight. + +1562 + +Full sore enraged was Hagen, / as quick his hand he laid +Upon his sword where hanging / he found the trusty blade. +His head he struck from off him / and flung into the tide. +Known was soon the story / to the knights of Burgundy beside. + +1563 + +While the time was passing / that he the boatman slew, +The waters bore him downward, / whereat he anxious grew. +Ere he the boat had righted / began his strength to wane, +So mightily was pulling / royal Gunther's doughty thane. + +1564 + +Soon he yet had turned it, / so rapid was his stroke, +Until the mighty oar / beneath his vigor broke. +As strove he his companions / upon the bank to gain, +No second oar he found him. / Yet soon the same made fast again. + +1565 + +With quickly snatched shield-strap, / a fine and narrow band. +Downward where stood a forest / he sought again the land, +And there his master found he / standing upon the shore. +In haste came forth to meet him / many a stately warrior more. + +1566 + +The gallant knight they greeted / with right hearty mood. +When in the boat perceived they / reeking still the blood +That from the wound had issued / where Hagen's sword did swing, +Scarce could his companions / bring to an end their questioning. + +1567 + +When that royal Gunther / the streaming blood did see +Within the boat there running, / straightway then spake he: +"Where is now the ferryman, / tell me, Hagen, pray? +By thy mighty prowess / his life, I ween, is ta'en away." + +1568 + +Thereto replied he falsely: / "When the boat I found +Where slopeth a wild meadow, / I the same unbound. +Hereabout no ferryman / I to-day have seen, +Nor ever cause of sorrow / unto any have I been." + +1569 + +The good knight then of Burgundy, / the gallant Gernot, spake: +"Dear friends full many, fear I, / the flood this day will take, +Since we of the boatmen / none ready here may find +To guide us o'er the current. / 'Tis mickle sorrow to my mind." + +1570 + +Full loudly cried then Hagen: / "Lay down upon the grass, +Ye squires, the horse equipments. / I ween a time there was, +Myself was best of boatmen / that dwelt the Rhine beside. +To Gelfrat's country trow I / to bring you safely o'er the tide." + +1571 + +That they might come the sooner / across the running flood, +Drove they in the horses. / Their swimming, it was good, +For of them never any / beneath the waves did sink, +Though many farther downward / must struggle sore to gain the brink. + +1572 + +Their treasure and apparel / unto the boat they bore, +Since by no means the journey / thought they to give o'er. +Hagen was director, / and safely reached the strand +With many a stalwart warrior / bound unto the unknown land. + +1573 + +Gallant knights a thousand / first he ferried o'er, +Whereafter came his own men. / Of others still were more, +For squires full nine thousand / he led unto that land. +That day no whit was idle / that valiant knight of Tronje's hand. + +1574 + +When he them all in safety / o'er the flood had brought, +Of that strange story / the valiant warrior thought, +Which erstwhile had told him / those women of the sea. +Lost thereby the chaplain's / life well-nigh was doomed to be. + +1575 + +Beside his priestly baggage / he saw the chaplain stand, +Upon the holy vestments / resting with his hand. +No whit was that his safety; / when Hagen him did see, +Must the priest full wretched / suffer sorest injury. + +1576 + +From out the boat he flung him / ere might the thing be told, +Whereat they cried together: / "Hold, O Master, hold!" +Soon had the youthful Giselher / to rage thereat begun, +And mickle was his sorrow / that Hagen yet the thing had done. + +1577 + +Then outspake Sir Gernot, / knight of Burgundy: +"What boots it thee, Sir Hagen, / that thus the chaplain die? +Dared any else to do it, / thy wrath 'twould sorely stir. +Wherein the priest's offending, / thus thy malice to incur?" + +1578 + +To swim the chaplain struggled. / He thought him yet to free, +If any but would help him. / Yet such might never be, +For that the doughty Hagen / full wrathful was of mood, +He sunk him to the bottom, / whereat aghast each warrior stood. + +1579 + +When that no help forthcoming / the wretched priest might see, +He sought the hither shore, / and fared full grievously. +Though failed his strength in swimming, / yet helped him God's own hand, +That he came securely / back again unto the land. + +1580 + +Safe yonder stood the chaplain / and shook his dripping dress. +Thereby perceived Hagen / how true was none the less +The story that did tell him / the strange women of the sea. +Thought he: "Of these good warriors / soon the days must ended be." + +1581 + +When that the boat was emptied, / and complete their store +All the monarch's followers / had borne upon the shore, +Hagen smote it to pieces / and cast it on the flood, +Whereat in mickle wonder / the valiant knights around him stood. + +1582 + +"Wherefore dost this, brother," / then Sir Dankwart spake; +"How shall we cross the river / when again we make +Our journey back from Hunland, / riding to the Rhine?" +Behold how Hagen bade him / all such purpose to resign. + +1583 + +Quoth the knight of Tronje: / "This thing is done by me, +That if e'er coward rideth / in all our company, +Who for lack of courage / from us away would fly, +He beneath these billows / yet a shameful death must die." + +1584 + +One there journeyed with them / from the land of Burgundy, +That was a knight of valor, / Volker by name was he. +He spake in cunning manner / whate'er might fill his mind, +And aught was done by Hagen / did the Fiddler fitting find. + +1585 + +Ready stood their chargers, / the carriers laden well; +At passage of the river / was there naught to tell +Of scathe to any happened, / save but the king's chaplain. +Afoot must he now journey / back unto the Rhine again. + + + + +TWENTY-SIXTH ADVENTURE + +How Gelfrat was Slain by Dankwart + +1586 + +When now they all were gathered / upon the farther strand, +To wonder gan the monarch: / "Who shall through this land +On routes aright direct us, / that not astray we fare?" +Then spake the doughty Volker: / "Thereof will I alone have care." + +1587 + +"Now hark ye all," quoth Hagen, / "knight and squire too, +And list to friendly counsel, / as fitting is to do. +Full strange and dark the tidings / now ye shall hear from me: +Home nevermore return we / unto the land of Burgundy. + +1588 + +"Thus mermaids twain did tell me, / who spake to me this morn, +That back we come not hither. / You would I therefore warn +That armed well ye journey / and of all ills beware. +To meet with doughty foemen / well behooveth us prepare. + +1589 + +"I weened to turn to falsehood / what those wise mermaids spake, +Who said that safe this journey / none again should make +Home unto our country / save the chaplain alone: +Him therefore was I minded / to-day beneath the flood to drown." + +1590 + +From company to company / quickly flew the tale, +Whereon grew many a doughty / warrior's visage pale, +As gan he think in sorrow / how death should snatch away +All ere the journey ended; / and very need for grief had they. + +1591 + +By Moeringen was it / they had the river crossed, +Where also Else's boatman / thus his life had lost. +There again spake Hagen: / "Since in such wise by me +Wrath hath been incurred, / assailed full surely shall we be. + +1592 + +"Myself that same ferryman / did this morning slay. +Far bruited are the tidings. / Now arm ye for the fray, +That if Gelfrat and Else / be minded to beset +Our train to-day, they surely / with sore discomfiture be met. + +1593 + +"So keen they are, well know I / the thing they'll not forego. +Your horses therefore shall ye / make to pace more slow, +That never man imagine / we flee away in fear." +"That counsel will I follow," / spake the young knight Giselher. + +1594 + +"Who will guide our vanguard / through this hostile land?" +"Volker shall do it," spake they, / "well doth he understand +Where leadeth path and highway, / a minstrel brave and keen." +Ere full the wish was spoken, / in armor well equipped was seen + +1595 + +Standing the doughty Fiddler. / His helmet fast he bound, +And from his stately armor / shot dazzling light around. +Eke to a staff he fastened / a banner, red of hue. +Anon with royal masters / came he to sorest sorrow too. + +1596 + +Unto Gelfrat meanwhile / had sure tidings flown, +How that was dead his boatman; / the story eke was known +Unto the doughty Else, / and both did mourn his fate. +Their warriors they summoned, / nor must long time for answer wait. + +1597 + +But little space it lasted / --that would I have you know-- +Ere that to them hasted / who oft a mickle woe +Had wrought in stress of battle / and injury full sore; +To Gelfrat now came riding / seven hundred knights or more. + +1598 + +When they their foes to follow / so bitterly began, +Led them both their masters. / Yet all too fast they ran +After the valiant strangers / vengeance straight to wreak. +Ere long from those same leaders / did death full many a warrior take. + +1599 + +Hagen then of Tronje / the thing had ordered there, +--How of his friends might ever / knight have better care?-- +That he did keep the rearguard / with warriors many a one, +And Dankwart eke, his brother; / full wisely the thing was done. + +1600 + +When now the day was over / and light they had no more, +Injury to his followers / gan he to dread full sore. +They shield in hand rode onward / through Bavarian land, +And ere they long had waited / beset they were by hostile band. + +1601 + +On either side the highway / and close upon their rear +Of hoofs was heard the clatter; / too keen the chasers were. +Then spake the valiant Dankwart: / "The foe is close at hand. +Now bind we on the helmet, / --wisdom doth the same command." + +1602 + +Upon the way they halted, / nor else they safe had been. +Through the gloom perceived they / of gleaming shields the sheen. +Thereupon would Hagen / longer not delay: +"Who rideth on the highway?"-- / That must Gelfrat tell straight-way. + +1603 + +Of Bavaria the margrave / thereupon replied: +"Our enemies now seek we, / and swift upon them ride. +Fain would I discover / who hath my boatman slain. +A knight he was of valor, / whose death doth cause me grievous pain." + +1604 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "And was the boatman thine +That would not take us over? / The guilt herein is mine. +Myself did slay the warrior, / and had, in sooth, good need, +For that beneath his valor / I myself full nigh lay dead. + +1605 + +"For pay I rich attire / did bid, and gold a store, +Good knight, that to thy country / he should us ferry o'er. +Thereat he raged full sorely / and on me swung a blow +With a mighty boat-pole, / whereat I eke did angry grow. + +1606 + +"For my sword then reached I / and made his rage to close +With a wound all gaping: / so thou thy knight didst lose. +I'll give thee satisfaction / as to thee seemeth good." +Straightway began the combat, / for high the twain in valor stood. + +1607 + +"Well know I," spake Gelfrat, / "when Gunther with his train +Rode through this my country / that we should suffer bane +From Hagen, knight of Tronje. / No more shall he go free, +But for my boatman's slaying / here a hostage must he be." + +1608 + +Against their shields then lowered / for the charge the spear +Gelfrat and Hagen; / eager to close they were. +Else and Dankwart / spurred eke in stately way, +Scanning each the other; / then both did valorous arm display. + +1609 + +How might ever heroes / show doughty arm so well? +Backward from off his charger / from mighty tilt there fell +Hagen the valiant, / by Gelfrat's hand borne down. +In twain was rent the breast-piece: / to Hagen thus a fall was known. + +1610 + +Where met in charge their followers, / did crash of shafts resound. +Risen eke was Hagen, / who erst unto the ground +Was borne by mighty lance-thrust, / prone upon the grass. +I ween that unto Gelfrat / nowise of gentle mood he was. + +1611 + +Who held their horses' bridles / can I not recount, +But soon from out their saddles / did they all dismount. +Hagen and Gelfrat / straightway did fierce engage, +And all their men around them / did eke a furious combat wage. + +1612 + +Though with fierce onslaught Hagen / upon Gelfrat sprung, +On his shield the noble margrave / a sword so deftly swung +That a piece from off the border / 'mid flying sparks it clave. +Well-nigh beneath its fury / fell dead King Gunther's warrior brave. + +1613 + +Unto Dankwart loudly / thereat he gan to cry: +"Help! ho! my good brother! / Encountered here have I +A knight of arm full doughty, / from whom I come not free." +Then spake the valiant Dankwart: / "Myself thereof the judge will be." + +1614 + +Nearer sprang the hero / and smote him such a blow +With a keen-edged weapon / that he in death lay low. +For his slain brother Else / vengeance thought to take, +But soon with all his followers / 'mid havoc swift retreat must make. + +1615 + +Slain was now his brother, / wound himself did bear, +And of his followers eighty / eke had fallen there, +By grim death snatched sudden. / Then must the doughty knight, +From Gunther's men to save him, / turn away in hasty flight. + +1616 + +When that they of Bavaria / did from the carnage flee, +The blows that followed after / resounded frightfully; +For close the knights of Tronje / upon their enemies chased, +Who to escape the fury / did quit the field in mickle haste. + +1617 + +Then spake upon their fleeing / Dankwart the doughty thane: +"Upon our way now let us / backward turn again, +And leave them hence to hasten / all wet with oozing blood. +Unto our friends return we, / this verily meseemeth good." + +1618 + +When back they were returned / where did the scathe befall, +Outspake of Tronje Hagen: / "Now look ye, warriors all, +Who of our tale is lacking, / or who from us hath been +Here in battle riven / through the doughty Gelfrat's spleen." + +1619 + +Lament they must for warriors / four from them were ta'en. +But paid for were they dearly, / for roundabout lay slain +Of their Bavarian foemen / a hundred or more. +The men of Tronje's bucklers / with blood were wet and tarnished o'er. + +1620 + +From out the clouds of heaven / a space the bright moon shone. +Then again spake Hagen: / "Bear report let none +To my beloved masters / how we here did fare. +Let them until the morrow / still be free from aught of care." + +1621 + +When they were back returned / who bore the battle's stress, +Sore troubled was their company / from very weariness. +"How long shall we keep saddle?" / was many a warrior's quest. +Then spake the valiant Dankwart: / "Not yet may we find place of rest, + +1622 + +"But on ye all must journey / till day come back again." +Volker, knight of prowess, / who led the foremost train, +Bade to ask the marshal: / "This night where shall we be, +That rest them may our chargers, / and eke my royal masters three?" + +1623 + +Thereto spake valiant Dankwart: / "The same I ne'er can say, +Yet may we never rest us / before the break of day. +Where then we find it fitting / we'll lay us on the grass." +When they did hear his answer, / what source of grief to all it was! + +1624 + +Still were they unbetrayed / by reeking blood and red, +Until the sun in heaven / its shining beams down shed +At morn across the hill-tops, / that then the king might see +How they had been in battle. / Spake he then full angrily: + +1625 + +"How may this be, friend Hagen? / Scorned ye have, I ween, +That I should be beside you, / where coats of mail have been +Thus wet with blood upon you. / Who this thing hath done?" +Quoth he: "The same did Else, / who hath this night us set upon. + +1626 + +"To avenge his boatman / did they attack our train. +By hand of my brother / hath Gelfrat been slain. +Then fled Else before us, / and mickle was his need. +Ours four, and theirs a thousand, / remained behind in battle dead." + +1627 + +Now can we not inform you / where resting-place they found. +But cause to know their passing / had the country-folk around, +When there the sons of Ute / to court did fare in state. +At Passau fit reception / did presently the knights await. + +1628 + +The noble monarchs' uncle, / Bishop Pilgrim that was, +Full joyous-hearted was he / that through the land did pass +With train of lusty warriors / his royal nephews three. +That willing was his service, / waited they not long to see. + +1629 + +To greet them on their journey / did friends lack no device, +Yet not to lodge them fully / might Passau's bounds suffice. +They must across the water / where spreading sward they found, +And lodge and tent erected / soon were stretching o'er the ground. + +1630 + +Nor from that spot they onward / might journey all that day, +And eke till night was over, / for pleasant was their stay. +Next to the land of Ruediger / must they in sooth ride on, +To whom full soon the story / of their coming eke was known. + +1631 + +When fitting rest had taken / the knights with travel worn, +And of Etzel's country / they had reached the bourn, +A knight they found there sleeping / that ne'er should aught but wake, +From whom of Tronje Hagen / in stealth a mighty sword did take. + +1632 + +Hight in sooth was Eckewart / that same valiant knight. +For what was there befallen / was he in sorry plight, +That by those heroes' passing / he had lost his sword. +At Ruediger's marches / found they meagre was the guard. + +1633 + +"O, woe is me dishonored," / Eckewart then cried; +"Yea, rueth me fully sorely, / this Burgundian ride. +What time was taken Siegfried, / did joy depart from me. +Alack, O Master Ruediger, / how ill my service unto thee!" + +1634 + +Hagen, full well perceiving / the noble warrior's plight, +Gave him again his weapon / and armbands six full bright. +"These take, good knight, in token / that thou art still my friend. +A valiant warrior art thou, / though dost thou lone this border tend." + +1635 + +"May God thy gifts repay thee," / Eckewart replied, +"Yet rueth me full sorely / that to the Huns ye ride. +Erstwhile slew ye Siegfried / and vengeance have to fear; +My rede to you is truly: / "Beware ye well of danger here." + +1636 + +"Now must God preserve us," / answered Hagen there. +"In sooth for nothing further / have these thanes a care +Than for place of shelter, / the kings and all their band, +And where this night a refuge / we may find within this land. + +1637 + +"Done to death our horses / with the long journey are, +And food as well exhausted," / Hagen did declare. +"Nor find we aught for purchase; / a host we need instead, +Who would in kindness give us, / ere this evening, of his bread." + +1638 + +Thereto gave answer Eckewart: / "I'll show you such a one, +That so warm a welcome / find ye never none +In country whatsoever / as here your lot may be, +An if ye, thanes full gallant, / the noble Ruediger will see. + +1639 + +He dwelleth by the highway / and is most bounteous host +That house e'er had for master. / His heart may graces boast, +As in the lovely May-time / the flowrets deck the mead. +To do good thanes a service / is for his heart most joyous deed." + +1640 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "Wilt thou my messenger be, +If will my dear friend Ruediger, / as favor done to me, +His hospitable shelter / with all my warriors share, +Therefor full to requite thee / shall e'er hereafter be my care." + +1641 + +"Thy messenger am I gladly," / Eckewart replied, +And in right willing manner / straight away did ride, +The message thus received / to Ruediger to bear. +Nor did so joyous tidings / for many a season greet his ear. + +1642 + +Hasting to Bechelaren / was seen a noble thane. +The same perceived Ruediger, / and spake: "O'er yonder plain +Hither hastens Eckewart, / who Kriemhild's might doth own." +He weened that by some foemen / to him had injury been done. + +1643 + +Then passed he forth the gateway / where the messenger did stand. +His sword he loosed from girdle / and laid from out his hand. +The message that he carried / might he not long withhold +From the master and his kinsmen; / full soon the same to them was told. + +1644 + +He spake unto the margrave: / "I come at high command +Of the lordly Gunther / of Burgundian land, +And Giselher and Gernot, / his royal brothers twain. +In service true commends him / unto thee each lofty thane. + +1645 + +"The like hath Hagen bidden / and Volker as well +With homage oft-times proffered. / And more have I to tell, +The which King Gunther's marshal / to thee doth send by me: +How that the valiant warriors / do crave thy hospitality." + +1646 + +With smiling visage Ruediger / made thereto reply: +"Now joyeth me the story / that the monarchs high +Do deign to seek my service, / that ne'er refused shall be. +Come they unto my castle, / 'tis joy and gladness unto me." + +1647 + +"Dankwart the marshal / hath bidden let thee know +Who seek with them thy shelter / as through thy land they go: +Three score of valiant leaders / and thousand knights right good, +With squires eke nine thousand." / Thereat was he full glad of mood. + +1648 + +"To me 'tis mickle honor," / Ruediger then spake, +"That through my castle's portals / such guests will entry make, +For ne'er hath been occasion / my service yet to lend. +Now ride ye, men and kinsmen, / and on these lofty knights attend." + +1649 + +Then to horse did hasten / knight and willing squire, +For glad they were at all times / to do their lord's desire, +And keen that thus their service / should not be rendered late. +Unwitting Lady Gotelinde / still within her chamber sate. + + + + +TWENTY-SEVENTH ADVENTURE + +How they came to Bechelaren + +1650 + +Then went forth the margrave / where two ladies sate, +His wife beside his daughter, / nor longer did he wait +To tell the joyful tidings / that unto him were brought, +How Kriemhild's royal brothers / his hospitality had sought. + +1651 + +"Dearly loved lady," / spake then Ruediger, +"Full kind be thy reception / to lordly monarchs here, +That now with train of warriors / to court do pass this way. +Fair be eke thy greeting / to Hagen, Gunther's man, this day. + +1652 + +"One likewise with them cometh, / Dankwart by name, +Volker hight the other, / a knight of gallant fame. +Thyself and eke thy daughter / with kiss these six shall greet; +Full courteous be your manner / as ye the doughty thanes shall meet." + +1653 + +Gave straight their word the ladies, / and willing were thereto. +From out great chests they gorgeous / attire in plenty drew, +Which they to meet the lofty / strangers thought to wear, +Mickle was the hurry / there of many a lady fair. + +1654 + +On ne'er a cheek might any / but nature's hue be seen. +Upon their head they carried / band of golden sheen, +That was a beauteous chaplet, / that so their glossy hair +By wind might not be ruffled: / that is truth as I declare. + +1655 + +At such employment busy / leave we those ladies now. +Here with mickle hurry / across the plain did see +Friends of noble Ruediger / the royal guests to meet, +And them with warmest welcome / unto the margrave's land did greet. + +1656 + +When coming forth the margrave / saw their forms appear, +How spake with heart full joyous / the valiant Ruediger! +"Welcome be ye, Sires, / and all your gallant band. +Right glad am I to see you / hither come unto my land." + +1657 + +Then bent the knights before him / each full courteously. +That he good-will did bear them / might they full quickly see. +Hagen had special greeting, / who long to him was known; +To Volker eke of Burgundy / was like highest honor shown. + +1658 + +Thus Dankwart eke he greeted, / when spake the doughty thane: +"While we thus well are harbored, / who then for all the train +Of those that follow with us / shall meet provision make?" +"Yourselves this night right easy / shall rest," the noble margrave + spake. + +1659 + +"And all that follow with you, / with equipment whatsoe'er +Ye bring into my country / of steed or warlike gear, +So sure shall it be guarded / that of all the sum, +E'en to one spur's value, / to you shall never damage come. + +1660 + +"Now stretch aloft, my squires, / the tents upon the plain. +What here ye have of losses / will I make good again. +Unbridle now the horses / and let them wander free." +Upon their way they seldom / did meet like hospitality. + +1661 + +Thereat rejoiced the strangers. / When thus it ordered was, +Rode the high knights forward. / All round upon the grass +Lay the squires attendant / and found a gentle rest. +I ween, upon their journey / was here provision costliest. + +1662 + +Out before the castle / the noble margravine +Had passed with her fair daughter. / In her train were seen +A band of lovely women / and many a winsome maid, +Whose arms with bracelets glittered, / and all in stately robes arrayed. + +1663 + +The costly jewels sparkled / with far-piercing ray +From out their richest vestments, / and buxom all were they. +Now came the strangers thither / and sprang upon the ground. +How high in noble courtesy / the men of Burgundy were found! + +1664 + +Six and thirty maidens / and many a fair lady, +--Nor might ye ever any / more winsome wish to see-- +Went then forth to meet them / with many a knight full keen. +At hands of noble ladies / fairest greeting then was seen. + +1665 + +The margrave's youthful daughter / did kiss the kings all three +As eke had done her mother. / Hagen stood thereby. +Her father bade her kiss him; / she looked the thane upon, +Who filled her so with terror, / she fain had left the thing undone. + +1666 + +When she at last must do it, / as did command her sire, +Mingled was her color, / both pale and hue of fire. +Likewise kissed she Dankwart / and the Fiddler eke anon: +That he was knight of valor / to him was such high favor shown. + +1667 + +The margrave's youthful daughter / took then by the hand +The royal knight Giselher / of Burgundian land. +E'en so led forth her mother / the gallant Gunther high. +With those guests so lofty / walked they there full joyfully. + +1668 + +The host escorted Gernot / to a spacious hall and wide, +Where knights and stately ladies / sate them side by side. +Then bade they for the strangers / pour good wine plenteously: +In sooth might never heroes / find fuller hospitality. + +1669 + +Glances fond and many / saw ye directed there +Upon Ruediger's daughter, / for she was passing fair. +Yea, in his thoughts caressed her / full many a gallant knight; +A lady high in spirit, / well might she every heart delight. + +1670 + +Yet whatsoe'er their wishes, / might none fulfilled be. +Hither oft and thither / glanced they furtively +On maidens and fair ladies, / whereof were many there. +Right kind the noble Fiddler / disposed was to Ruediger. + +1671 + +They parted each from other / as ancient custom was, +And knights and lofty ladies / did separating pass +When tables were made ready / within the spacious hall. +There in stately manner / they waited on the strangers all. + +1672 + +To do the guests high honor / likewise the table sought +With them the lofty margravine. / Her daughter led she not, +But left among the maidens, / where fitting was she sat. +That they might not behold her, grieved were the guests in sooth thereat. + +1673 + +The drinking and the feasting, / when 'twas ended all, +Escorted was the maiden / again into the hall. +Then of merry jesting / they nothing lacked, I ween, +Wherein was busy Volker, / a thane full gallant and keen. + +1674 + +Then spake the noble Fiddler / to all in lofty tone: +"Great mercy, lordly margrave, / God to thee hath shown, +For that he hath granted / unto thee a wife +Of so surpassing beauty, / and thereto a joyous life. + +1675 + +"If that I were of royal / birth," the Fiddler spake, +"And kingly crown should carry, / to wife I'd wish to take +This thy lovely daughter, / --my heart thus prompteth me. +A noble maid and gentle / and fair to look upon is she." + +1676 + +Then outspake the margrave: / "How might such thing be, +That king should e'er desire / daughter born to me? +Exiled from my country / here with my spouse I dwell: +What avails the maiden, / be she favored ne'er so well?" + +1677 + +Thereto gave answer Gernot, / a knight of manner kind: +"If to my desire / I ever spouse would find, +Then would I of such lady / right gladly make my choice." +In full kindly manner / added Hagen eke his voice: + +1678 + +"Now shall my master Giselher / take to himself a spouse. +The noble margrave's daughter / is of so lofty house, +That I and all his warriors / would glad her service own, +If that she in Burgundy / should ever wear a royal crown." + +1679 + +Glad thereat full truly / was Sir Ruediger, +And eke Gotelinde: / they joyed such words to hear. +Anon arranged the heroes / that her as bride did greet +The noble knight Giselher, / as was for any monarch meet. + +1680 + +What thing is doomed to happen, / who may the same prevent? +To come to the assembly / they for the maidens sent, +And to the knight they plighted / the winsome maid for wife, +Pledge eke by him was given, / his love should yet endure with life. + +1681 + +They to the maid allotted / castles and spreading land, +Whereof did give assurance / the noble monarch's hand +And eke the royal Gernot, / 'twould surely so be done. +Then spake to them the margrave: / "Lordly castles have I none, + +1682 + +"Yet true shall be my friendship / the while that I may live. +Unto my daughter shall I / of gold and silver give +What hundred sumpter-horses / full laden bear away, +That her husband's lofty kinsmen / find honor in the fair array." + +1683 + +They bade the knight and maiden / within a ring to stand, +As was of old the custom. / Of youths a goodly band, +That all were merry-hearted, / did her there confront, +And thought they on her beauty / as mind of youth is ever wont. + +1684 + +When they began to question / then the winsome maid, +Would she the knight for husband, / somewhat she was dismayed, +And yet forego she would not / to have him for her own. +She blushed to hear the question, / as many another maid hath done. + +1685 + +Her father Ruediger prompted / that Yes her answer be, +And that she take him gladly. / Unto her instantly +Sprang the young Sir Giselher, / and in his arm so white +He clasped her to his bosom. / --Soon doomed to end was her delight. + +1686 + +Then spake again the margrave: / "Ye royal knights and high, +When that home ye journey / again to Burgundy +I'll give to you my daughter, / as fitting is to do, +That ye may take her with you." / They gave their plighted word thereto. + +1687 + +What jubilation made they / yet at last must end. +The maiden then was bidden / unto her chamber wend, +And guests to seek their couches / and rest until the day. +For them the host provided / a feast in hospitable way. + +1688 + +When they had feasted fully / and to the Huns' country +Thence would onward journey, / "Such thing shall never be," +Spake the host full noble, / "but here ye still shall rest. +Seldom hath my good fortune / welcomed yet so many a guest." + +1689 + +Thereto gave answer Dankwart: / "In sooth it may not be. +Bread and wine whence hast thou / and food sufficiently, +Over night to harbor / of guests so great a train?" +When the host had heard it, / spake he: "All thy words are vain. + +1690 + +"Refuse not my petition, / ye noble lords and high. +A fortnight's full provision / might I in sooth supply, +For you and every warrior / that journeys in your train. +Till now hath royal Etzel / small portion of my substance ta'en." + +1691 + +Though fain they had declined it, / yet they there must stay +E'en to the fourth morning. / Then did the host display +So generous hand and lavish / that it was told afar. +He gave unto the strangers / horses and apparel rare. + +1692 + +The time at last was over / and they must journey thence. +Then did the valiant Ruediger / with lavish hand dispense +Unto all his bounty, / refused he unto none +Whate'er he might desire. / Well-pleased they parted every one. + +1693 + +His courteous retainers / to castle gateway brought +Saddled many horses, / and soon the place was sought +Eke by the gallant strangers / each bearing shield in hand, +For that they thence would journey / onward into Etzel's land. + +1694 + +The host had freely offered / rich presents unto all, +Ere that the noble strangers / passed out before the hall. +High in honor lived he, / a knight of bounty rare. +His fair daughter had he / given unto Giselher. + +1695 + +Eke gave he unto Gunther, / a knight of high renown, +What well might wear with honor / the monarch as his own, +--Though seldom gift received he-- / a coat of harness rare. +Thereat inclined King Gunther / before the noble Ruediger. + +1696 + +Then gave he unto Gernot / a good and trusty blade, +Wherewith anon in combat / was direst havoc made. +That thus the gift was taken / rejoiced the margrave's wife: +Thereby the noble Ruediger / was doomed anon to lose his life. + +1697 + +Gotelinde proffered Hagen, / as 'twas a fitting thing, +Her gifts in kindly manner. / Since scorned them not the king, +Eke he without her bounty / to the high festivity +Should thence not onward journey. / Yet loath to take the same was he. + +1698 + +"Of all doth meet my vision," / Hagen then spake, +"Would I wish for nothing / with me hence to take +But alone the shield that hanging / on yonder wall I see. +The same I'd gladly carry / into Etzel's land with me." + +1699 + +When the stately margravine / Hagen's words did hear, +Brought they to mind her sorrow, / nor might she stop a tear. +She thought again full sadly / how her son Nudung fell, +Slain by hand of Wittich; / and did her breast with anguish swell. + +1700 + +She spake unto the hero: / "The shield to thee I'll give. +O would to God in heaven / that he still did live, +Whose hand erstwhile did wield it! / In battle fell he low, +And I, a wretched mother, / must weep with never-ending woe. + +1701 + +Thereat the noble lady / up from the settle rose, +And soon her arms all snow-white / did the shield enclose. +She bore it unto Hagen, / who made obeisance low; +The gift she might with honor / upon so valiant thane bestow. + +1702 + +O'er it, to keep its color, / a shining cover lay +With precious stones all studded, / nor ever shone the day +Upon a shield more costly; / if e'er a longing eye +Did covet to possess it, / scarce thousand marks the same might buy. + +1703 + +The shield in charge gave Hagen / thence away to bear. +Before his host then Dankwart / himself presented there, +On whom the margrave's daughter / did costly dress bestow. +Wherein anon in Hunland / arrayed full stately he did go. + +1704 + +Whate'er of gifts by any / was accepted there, +Them had his hand ne'er taken, / but that intent all were +To do their host an honor / who gave with hand so free. +By his guests in combat / soon doomed was he slain to be. + +1705 + +Volker the valiant / to Gotelinde came +And stood in courteous manner / with fiddle 'fore the dame. +Sweet melodies he played her / and sang his songs thereby, +For thought he from Bechelaren / to take departure presently. + +1706 + +The margravine bade to her / a casket forth to bear. +And now of presents given / full freely may ye hear. +Therefrom she took twelve armbands / and drew them o'er his hand. +"These shall thou with thee carry, / as ridest thou to Etzel's land, + +1707 + +"And for my sake shalt wear them / when at court thou dost appear, +That when thou hither comest / I may the story hear +How thou hast done me honor / at the high festival." +What did wish the lady, / faithfully performed he all. + +1708 + +Thus to his guests the host spake: / "That ye more safely fare, +Myself will give you escort / and bid them well beware +That upon the highway / no ill on you be wrought." +Thereat his sumpter horses / straightway laden forth were brought + +1709 + +The host was well prepared / with five hundred men +With horse and rich attire. / These led he with him then +In right joyous humor / to the high festival. +Alive to Bechelaren / again came never one of all. + +1710 + +Thence took his leave Sir Ruediger / with kiss full lovingly; +As fitting was for Giselher, / likewise the same did he. +With loving arms enfolding / caressed they ladies fair. +To many a maid the parting / did bring anon full bitter tear. + +1711 + +On all sides then the windows / were open wide flung, +As with his train of warriors / the host to saddle sprung. +I ween their hearts did tell them / how they should sorrow deep. +For there did many a lady / and many a winsome maiden weep. + +1712 + +For dear friends left behind him / grieved many a knight full sore. +Whom they at Bechelaren / should behold no more. +Yet rode they off rejoicing / down across the sand +Hard by the Danube river / on their way to Etzel's land. + +1713 + +Then spake to the Burgundians / the gallant knight and bold, +Ruediger the noble: / "Now let us not withhold +The story of our coming / unto the Hun's country. +Unto the royal Etzel / might tidings ne'er more welcome be." + +1714 + +Down in haste through Austria / the messenger did ride, +Who told unto the people / soon on every side, +From Worms beyond Rhine river / were high guests journeying. +Nor unto Etzel's people / gladder tidings might ye bring. + +1715 + +Onward spurred the messengers / who did the message bear, +How now in Hunnish country / the Nibelungen were. +"Kriemhild, lofty lady, / warm thy welcome be; +In stately manner hither / come thy loving brothers three." + +1716 + +Within a lofty casement / the Lady Kriemhild stood, +Looking for her kinsmen, / as friend for friend full good. +From her father's country / saw she many a knight; +Eke heard the king the tidings, / and laughed thereat for sheer delight. + +1717 + +"Now well my heart rejoiceth," / spake Lady Kriemhild. +"Hither come my kinsmen / with many a new-wrought shield +And brightly shining hauberk: / who gold would have from me, +Be mindful of my sorrow; / to him I'll ever gracious be." + + + + +TWENTY-EIGHTH ADVENTURE + +How the Burgundians came to Etzel's Castle + +1718 + +When that the men of Burgundy / were come into the land, +He of Bern did hear it, / the aged Hildebrand. +He told it to his master, / who sore thereat did grieve; +The knight so keen and gallant / bade he in fitting way receive. + +1719 + +Wolfhart the valiant / bade lead the heroes forth. +In company with Dietrich / rode many a thane of worth, +As out to receive them / across the plain he went, +Where might ye see erected / already many a stately tent. + +1720 + +When that of Tronje Hagen / them far away espied, +Unto his royal masters / full courteously he said: +"Now shall ye, doughty riders, / down from the saddle spring, +And forward go to meet them / that here to you a welcome bring. + +1721 + +"A train there cometh yonder, / well knew I e'en when young. +Thanes they are full doughty / of the land of Amelung. +He of Bern doth lead them, / and high of heart they are; +To scorn their proffered greeting / shall ye in sooth full well beware." + +1722 + +Dismounted then with Dietrich, / (as was meet and right,) +Attended by his squire / many a gallant knight. +They went unto the strangers / and greeted courteously +The knights that far had ridden / from the land of Burgundy. + +1723 + +When then Sir Dietrich / saw them coming near, +What words the thane delivered, / now may ye willing hear, +Unto Ute's children. / Their journey grieved him sore. +He weened that Ruediger knowing / had warned what lay for them in store. + +1724 + +"Welcome be ye, Masters, / Gunther and Giselher, +Gernot and Hagen, / welcome eke Volker +And the valiant Dankwart. / Do ye not understand? +Kriemhild yet sore bemoaneth / the hero of Nibelungen land." + +1725 + +"Long time may she be weeping," / Hagen spake again; +"In sooth for years a many / dead he lies and slain. +To the monarch now of Hunland / should she devoted be: +Siegfried returneth never, / buried now long time is he." + +1726 + +"How Siegfried's death was compassed, / let now the story be: +While liveth Lady Kriemhild, / look ye for injury." +Thus did of Bern Sir Dietrich / unto them declare: +"Hope of the Nibelungen, / of her vengeance well beware." + +1727 + +"Whereof shall I be fearful?" / the lofty monarch spake: +"Etzel hath sent us message, / (why further question make?) +That we should journey hither / into his country. +Eke hath my sister Kriemhild / oft wished us here as guests to see. + +1728 + +"I give thee honest counsel," / Hagen then did say, +"Now shalt thou here Sir Dietrich / and his warriors pray +To tell thee full the story, / if aught may be designed, +And let thee know more surely / how stands the Lady Kriemhild's mind." + +1729 + +Then went to speak asunder / the lordly monarchs three, +Gunther and Gernot, / and Dietrich went he. +"Now tell us true, thou noble / knight of Bern and kind, +If that perchance thou knowest / how stands thy royal mistress' mind." + +1730 + +The lord of Bern gave answer: / "What need to tell you more? +I hear each day at morning / weeping and wailing sore +The wife of royal Etzel, / who piteous doth complain +To God in heaven that Siegfried / her doughty spouse from her was ta'en." + +1731 + +"Then must we e'en abide it," / was the fearless word +Of Volker the Fiddler, / "what we here have heard. +To court we yet shall journey / and make full clear to all, +If that to valiant warriors / may aught amid the Huns befall." + +1732 + +The gallant thanes of Burgundy / unto court then rode, +And went in stately manner / as was their country's mode. +Full many a man in Hunland / looked eagerly to see +Of what manner Hagen, / Tronje's doughty thane, might be. + +1733 + +For that was told the story / (and great the wonder grew) +How that of Netherland / Siegfried he slew, +That was the spouse of Kriemhild, / in strength without a peer, +Hence a mickle questioning / after Hagen might ye hear. + +1734 + +Great was the knight of stature, / may ye know full true, +Built with breast expansive; / mingled was the hue +Of his hair with silver; / long he was of limb; +As he strode stately forward / might ye mark his visage grim. + +1735 + +Then were the thanes of Burgundy / unto quarters shown, +But the serving-man of Gunther / by themselves alone. +Thus the queen did counsel, / so filled she was with hate. +Anon where they were harbored / the train did meet with direst fate. + +1736 + +Dankwart, Hagen's brother, / marshal was he. +To him the king his followers / commended urgently, +That he provide them plenty / and have of them good care. +The noble knight of Burgundy / their safety well in mind did bear. + +1737 + +By her train attended, / Queen Kriemhild went +To greet the Nibelungen, / yet false was her intent. +She kissed her brother Giselher / and took him by the hand: +Thereat of Tronje Hagen / did tighter draw his helmet's band. + +1733 + +"After such like greeting," / the doughty Hagen spake, +"Let all watchful warriors / full precaution take: +Differs wide the greeting / on masters and men bestowed. +Unhappy was the hour / when to this festival we rode." + +1739 + +She spake: "Now be ye welcome / to whom ye welcome be. +For sake of friendship never / ye greeting have from me. +Tell me now what bring ye / from Worms across the Rhine, +That ye so greatly welcome / should ever be to land of mine?" + +1740 + +"An I had only known it," / Hagen spake again, +"That thou didst look for present / from hand of every thane, +I were, methinks, so wealthy / --had I me bethought-- +That I unto this country / likewise to thee my gift had brought." + +1741 + +"Now shall ye eke the story / to me more fully say: +The Nibelungen treasure, / where put ye that away? +My own possession was it, / as well ye understand. +That same ye should have brought me / hither unto Etzel's land." + +1742 + +"In sooth, my Lady Kriemhild, / full many a day hath flown +Since of the Nibelungen / hoard I aught have known. +Into the Rhine to sink it / my lords commanded me: +Verily there must it / until the day of judgment be." + +1743 + +Thereto the queen gave answer: / "Such was e'en my thought. +Thereof right little have ye / unto me hither brought, +Although myself did own it / and once o'er it held sway. +'Tis cause that I for ever / have full many a mournful day." + +1744 + +"The devil have I brought thee," / Hagen did declare. +"My shield it is so heavy / that I have to bear, +And my plaited armor; / my shining helmet see, +And sword in hand I carry, / --so might I nothing bring for thee." + +1745 + +Then spake the royal lady / unto the warriors all: +"Weapon shall not any / bear into the hall. +To me now for safe keeping, / ye thanes shall give them o'er." +"In sooth," gave answer Hagen, / "such thing shall happen nevermore. + +1746 + +"Such honor ne'er I covet, / royal lady mild, +That to its place of keeping / thou shouldst bear my shield +With all my other armor, / --for thou art a queen. +Such taught me ne'er my sire: / myself will be my chamberlain." + +1747 + +"Alack of these my sorrows!" / the Lady Kriemhild cried; +"Wherefore will now my brother / and Hagen not confide +To me their shields for keeping? / Some one did warning give. +Knew I by whom 'twas given, / brief were the space that he might live." + +1748 + +Thereto the mighty Dietrich / in wrath his answer gave: +"'Tis I who now these noble / lords forewarned have, +And Hagen, knight full valiant / of the land of Burgundy. +Now on! thou devil's mistress, / let not the deed my profit be." + +1749 + +Great shame thereat did Kriemhild's / bosom quickly fill; +She feared lest Dietrich's anger / should work her grievous ill. +Naught she spake unto them / as thence she swiftly passed, +But fierce the lightning glances / that on her enemies she cast. + +1750 + +By hand then grasped each, other / doughty warriors twain: +Hight the one was Dietrich, / with Hagen, noble thane. +Then spake in courteous manner / that knight of high degree: +"That ye are come to Hunland, / 'tis very sorrow unto me; + +1751 + +"For what hath here been spoken / by the lofty queen." +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Small cause to grieve, I ween." +Held converse thus together / those brave warriors twain, +King Etzel which perceiving / thus a questioning began: + +1752 + +"I would learn full gladly," / --in such wise spake he-- +"Who were yonder warrior, / to whom so cordially +Doth greeting give Sir Dietrich. / Meseemeth high his mood. +Whosoe'er his sire, / a thane he is of mettle good." + +1753 + +Unto the king gave answer / of Kriemhild's train a knight: +"Born he was of Tronje, / Aldrian his sire hight. +How merry here his bearing, / a thane full grim is he. +That I have spoken truly, / shalt thou anon have cause to see." + +1754 + +"How may I then perceive it / that fierce his wrath doth glow?" +Naught of basest treachery / yet the king did know, +That anon Queen Kriemhild / 'gainst her kinsmen did contrive, +Whereby returned from Hunland / not one of all their train alive. + +1755 + +"Well knew I Aldrian, / he once to me was thane: +Praise and mickle honor / he here by me did gain. +Myself a knight did make him, / and gave him of my gold. +Helke, noble lady, / did him in highest favor hold. + +1756 + +"Thereby know I fully / what Hagen since befell. +Two stately youths as hostage / at my court did dwell, +He and Spanish Walter, / from youth to manhood led. +Hagen sent I homeward; / Walter with Hildegunde fled." + +1757 + +He thought on ancient story / that long ago befell. +His doughty friend of Tronje / knew he then right well, +Whose youthful valor erstwhile / did such assistance lend. +Through him in age he must be / bereft of many a dearest friend. + + + + +TWENTY-NINTH ADVENTURE + +How He arose not before Her + +1758 + +Then parted from each other / the noble warriors twain, +Hagen of Tronje / and Dietrich, lofty thane. +Then did King Gunther's warrior / cast a glance around, +Seeking a companion / the same he eke full quickly found. + +1759 + +As standing there by Giselher / he did Volker see, +He prayed the nimble Fiddler / to bear him company, +For that full well he knew it / how grim he was of mood, +And that in all things was he / a knight of mettle keen and good. + +1760 + +While yet their lords were standing / there in castle yard +Saw ye the two knights only / walking thitherward +Across the court far distant / before the palace wide. +The chosen thanes recked little / what might through any's hate betide. + +1761 + +They sate them down on settle / over against a hall, +Wherein dwelt Lady Kriemhild, / beside the palace wall. +Full stately their attire / on stalwart bodies shone. +All that did look upon them / right gladly had the warriors known. + +1762 + +Like unto beasts full savage / were they gaped upon, +The two haughty heroes, / by full many a Hun. +Eke from a casement Etzel's / wife did them perceive: +Once more to behold them / must fair Lady Kriemhild grieve. + +1763 + +It called to mind her sorrow, / and she to weep began, +Whereat did mickle wonder / many an Etzel's man, +What grief had thus so sudden / made her sad of mood. +Spake she: "That hath Hagen, / ye knights of mettle keen and good." + +1764 + +They to their mistress answered: / "Such thing, how hath it been? +For that thee right joyous / we but now have seen. +Ne'er lived he so daring / that, having wrought thee ill, +His life he must not forfeit, / if but to vengeance point thy will." + +1765 + +"I live but to requite him / that shall avenge my wrong; +Whate'er be his desire / shall unto him belong. +Prostrate I beseech you," / --so spake the monarch's wife-- +"Avenge me upon Hagen, / and forfeit surely be his life." + +1766 + +Three score of valiant warriors / made ready then straightway +To work the will of Kriemhild / and her best obey +By slaying of Sir Hagen, / the full valiant thane, +And eke the doughty Fiddler; / by shameful deed thus sought they gain. + +1767 + +When the queen beheld there / so small their company, +In full angry humor / to the warriors spake she: +"What there ye think to compass, / forego such purpose yet: +So small in numbers never / dare ye Hagen to beset. + +1768 + +"How doughty e'er be Hagen, / and known his valor wide, +A man by far more doughty / that sitteth him beside, +Volker the Fiddler: / a warrior grim is he. +In sooth may not so lightly / the heroes twain confronted be." + +1769 + +When that she thus had spoken, / ready soon were seen +Four hundred stalwart warriors; / for was the lofty queen +Full intent upon it / to work them evil sore. +Therefrom for all the strangers / was mickle sorrow yet in store. + +1770 + +When that complete attired / were here retainers seen, +Unto the knights impatient / in such wise spake the queen: +"Now bide ye yet a moment / and stand ye ready so, +While I with crown upon me / unto my enemies shall go. + +1771 + +"And list while I accuse him / how he hath wrought me bane, +Hagen of Tronje, / Gunther's doughty thane. +I know his mood so haughty, / naught he'll deny of all. +Nor reck I what of evil / therefrom may unto him befall." + +1772 + +Then saw the doughty Fiddler / --he was a minstrel keen-- +Adown the steps descending / the high and stately queen +Who issued from the castle. / When he the queen espied, +Spake the valiant Volker / to him was seated by his side: + +1773 + +"Look yonder now, friend Hagen, / how that she hither hies +Who to this land hath called us / in such treacherous wise. +No monarch's wife I ever / saw followed by such band +Of warriors armed for battle, / that carry each a sword in hand. + +1774 + +"Know'st thou, perchance, friend Hagen, / if hate to thee they bear? +Then would I well advise thee / of them full well beware +And guard both life and honor. / That methinks were good, +For if I much mistake not, / full wrathful is the warriors' mood. + +1775 + +"Of many eke among them / so broad the breasts do swell, +That who would guard him 'gainst them / betimes would do it well. +I ween that 'neath their tunics / they shining mail-coats wear: +Yet might I never tell thee, / 'gainst whom such evil mind they bear." + +1776 + +Then spake all wrathful-minded / Hagen the warrior keen: +"On me to vent their fury / is their sole thought, I ween, +That thus with brandished weapons / their onward press we see. +Despite them all yet trow I / to come safe home to Burgundy. + +1777 + +"Now tell me, friend Volker, / wilt thou beside me stand, +If seek to work me evil / here Kriemhild's band? +That let me hear right truly, / as I am dear to thee. +By thy side forever / shall my service faithful be." + +1778 + +"Full surely will I help thee," / the minstrel straight replied; +"And saw I e'en a monarch / with all his men beside +Hither come against us, / the while a sword I wield +Not fear shall ever prompt me / from thy side one pace to yield." + +1779 + +"Now God in heaven, O Volker, / give thy high heart its meed. +Will they forsooth assail me, / whereof else have I need? +Wilt thou thus stand beside me / as here is thy intent, +Let come all armed these warriors, / on whatsoever purpose bent." + +1780 + +"Now rise we from this settle," / the minstrel spake once more, +"While that the royal lady / passeth here before. +To her be done this honor / as unto lady high. +Ourselves in equal manner / shall we honor eke thereby." + +1781 + +"Nay, nay! as me thou lovest," / Hagen spake again, +"For so would sure imagine / here each hostile thane +That 'twere from fear I did it, / should I bear me so. +For sake of never any / will I from this settle go. + +1782 + +"Undone we both might leave it / in sooth more fittingly. +Wherefore should I honor / who bears ill-will to me? +Such thing will I do never, / the while I yet have life. +Nor reck I aught how hateth / me the royal Etzel's wife." + +1783 + +Thereat defiant Hagen / across his knee did lay +A sword that shone full brightly, / from whose knob did play +The light of glancing jasper / greener than blade of grass. +Well perceived Kriemhild / that it erstwhile Siegfried's was. + +1784 + +When she the sword espied, / to weep was sore her need. +The hilt was shining golden, / the sheath a band of red. +As it recalled her sorrow, / her tears had soon begun; +I ween for that same purpose / 'twas thus by dauntless Hagen done. + +1785 + +Eke the valiant Volker / a fiddle-bow full strong +Unto himself drew nearer; / mickle it was and long, +Like unto a broad-sword / full sharp that was and wide. +So sat they all undaunted / the stately warriors side by side. + +1786 + +There sat the thanes together / in such defiant wise +That would never either / from the settle rise +Through fear of whomsoever. / Then strode before their feet +The lofty queen, and wrathful / did thus the doughty warriors greet. + +1787 + +Quoth she: "Now tell me, Hagen, / upon whose command +Barest thou thus to journey / hither to this land, +And knowest well what sorrow / through thee my heart must bear. +Wert thou not reft of reason, / then hadst thou kept thee far from here." + +1788 + +"By none have I been summoned," / Hagen gave reply. +"Three lofty thanes invited / were to this country: +The same I own as masters / and service with them find. +Whene'er they make court journey / 'twere strange should I remain + behind." + +1789 + +Quoth she: "Now tell me further, / wherefore didst thou that +Whereby thou hast deserved / my everlasting hate? +'Twas thou that slewest Siegfried, / spouse so dear to me, +The which, till life hath ended, / must ever cause for weeping be." + +1790 + +Spake he: "Why parley further, / since further word were vain? +E'en I am that same Hagen / by whom was Siegfried slain, +That deft knight of valor. / How sore by him 'twas paid +That the Lady Kriemhild / dared the fair Brunhild upbraid! + +1791 + +"Beyond all cavil is it, / high and royal dame, +Of all the grievous havoc / I do bear the blame. +Avenge it now who wisheth, / woman or man tho't be. +An I unto thee lie not, / I've wrought thee sorest injury." + +1792 + +She spake: "Now hear, ye warriors, / how denies he not at all +The cause of all my sorrow. / Whate'er may him befall +Reck I not soever, / that know ye, Etzel's men." +The overweening warriors / blank gazed upon each other then. + +1793 + +Had any dared the onset, / seen it were full plain +The palm must be awarded / to the companions twain, +Who had in storm of battle / full oft their prowess shown. +What that proud band designed / through fear must now be left undone. + +1794 + +Outspake one of their number: / "Wherefore look thus to me? +What now I thought to venture / left undone shall be, +Nor for reward of any / think I my life to lose; +To our destruction lures us / here the royal Etzel's spouse." + +1795 + +Then spake thereby another: / "Like mind therein have I. +Though ruddy gold were offered / like towers piled high, +Yet would I never venture / to stir this Fiddler's spleen. +Such are the rapid glances / that darting from his eyes I've seen. + +1796 + +"Likewise know I Hagen / from youthful days full well, +Nor more about his valor / to me need any tell. +In two and twenty battles / I the knight have seen, +Whereby sorest sorrow / to many a lady's heart hath been. + +1797 + +"When here they were with Etzel, / he and the knight of Spain +Bore storm of many a battle / in many a warlike train +For sake of royal honor, / so oft thereof was need. +Wherefore of right are honors / high the valiant Hagen's meed. + +1798 + +"Then was yet the hero / but a child in years; +Now how hoary-headed / who were his youthful feres, +To wisdom now attained, / a warrior grim and strong, +Eke bears he with him Balmung, / the which he gained by mickle wrong." + +1799 + +Therewith the matter ended, / and none the fight dared start, +Whereat the Lady Kriemhild / full heavy was of heart. +Her warriors thence did vanish, / for feared they death indeed +At hands of the Fiddler, / whereof right surely was there need. + +1800 + +Outspake then the Fiddler: / "Well we now have seen, +That enemies here do greet us, / as we forewarned have been. +Back unto the monarchs / let us straight repair, +That none against our masters / to raise a hostile hand may dare. + +1801 + +"How oft from impious purpose / doth fear hold back the hand, +Where friend by friend doth only / firm in friendship stand, +Until right sense give warning / to leave the thing undone. +Thus wisdom hath prevented / the harm of mortals many a one." + +1802 + +"Heed I will thy counsel," / Hagen gave reply. +Then passed they where / the monarchs found they presently +In high state received / within the palace court. +Loud the valiant Volker / straight began after this sort + +1803 + +Unto his royal masters: / "How long will ye stand so, +That foes may press upon you? / To the king ye now shall go, +And from his lips hear spoken / how is his mind to you." +The valiant lords and noble / consorted then by two and two. + +1804 + +Of Bern the lofty Dietrich / took by the hand +Gunther the lordly monarch / of Burgundian land; +Irnfried escorted Gernot, / a knight of valor keen, +And Ruediger with Giselher / going unto the court was seen. + +1805 + +Howe'er with fere consorted / there any thane might be, +Volker and Hagen / ne'er parted company, +Save in storm of battle / when they did reach life's bourne, +'Twas cause that highborn ladies / anon in grievous way must mourn. + +1806 + +Unto the court then passing / with the kings were seen. +Of their lofty retinue / a thousand warriors keen, +And threescore thanes full valiant / that followed in their train; +The same from his own country / had doughty Hagen with him ta'en. + +1807 + +Hawart and eke Iring, / chosen warriors twain, +Saw ye walk together / in the royal train. +By Dankwart and Wolfhart, / a thane of high renown, +Was high courtly bearing / there before the others shown. + +1808 + +When the lord of Rhineland / passed into the hall, +Etzel mighty monarch / waited not at all, +But sprang from off his settle / when he beheld him nigh. +By monarch ne'er was given / greeting so right heartily. + +1809 + +"Welcome be, Lord Gunther, / and eke Sir Gernot too, +And your brother Giselher. / My greetings unto you +I sent with honest purpose / to Worms across the Rhine; +And welcome all your followers / shall be unto this land of mine. + +1810 + +"Right welcome be ye likewise, / doughty warriors twain, +Volker the full valiant, / and Hagen dauntless thane, +To me and to my lady / here in my country. +Unto the Rhine to greet you / many a messenger sent she." + +1811 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Thereof I'm well aware, +And did I with my masters / not thus to Hunland fare, +To do thee honor had I / ridden unto thy land." +Then took the lofty monarch / the honored strangers by the hand. + +1812 + +He led them to the settle / whereon himself he sat, +Then poured they for the strangers / --with care they tended that-- +In goblets wide and golden / mead and mulberry wine, +And bade right hearty welcome / unto the knights afar from Rhine. + +1813 + +Then spake the monarch Etzel: / "This will I freely say: +Naught in this world might happen / to bring my heart more joy, +Than that ye lofty heroes / thus are come to me. +The queen from mickle sadness / thereby make ye likewise free. + +1814 + +"To me 'twas mickle wonder / wherein had I transgressed, +That I for friends had won me / so many a noble guest, +Yet ye had never deigned / to come to my country. +'Tis now turned cause of gladness / that you as guests I here may see." + +1815 + +Thereto gave answer Ruediger, / a knight of lofty mind: +"Well mayst thou joy to see them; / right honor shalt thou find +And naught but noble bearing / in my high mistress' kin. +With them for guest thou likewise / many a stately thane dost win." + +1816 + +At turn of sun in summer / were the knights arrived +At mighty Etzel's palace. / Ne'er hath monarch lived +That lordly guests did welcome / with higher compliment. +When come was time of eating, / the king with them to table went. + +1817 + +Amid his guests more stately / a host was seated ne'er. +They had in fullest measure / of drink and goodly fare; +Whate'er they might desire, / they ready found the same. +Tales of mickle wonder / had spread abroad the heroes' fame. + + + + +THIRTIETH ADVENTURE + +How they kept Guard + +1818 + +And now the day was ended / and nearing was the night. +Came then the thought with longing / unto each way-worn knight, +When that they might rest them / and to their beds be shown. +'Twas mooted first by Hagen / and straight was answer then made known. + +1819 + +To Etzel spake then Gunther: / "Fair days may God thee give! +To bed we'll now betake us, / an be it by thy leave; +We'll come betimes at morning, / if so thy pleasure be." +From his guests the monarch / parted then full courteously. + +1820 + +Upon the guests on all sides / the Huns yet rudely pressed, +Whereat the valiant Volker / these words to them addressed: +"How dare ye 'fore these warriors / thus beset the way? +If that ye desist not, / rue such rashness soon ye may. + +1821 + +"Let fall will I on some one / such stroke of fiddle-bow, +That eyes shall fill with weeping / if he hath friend to show. +Why make not way before us, / as fitting were to do! +Knights by name ye all are, / but knighthood's ways unknown to you." + +1822 + +When outspake the Fiddler / thus so wrathfully +Backward glanced bold Hagen / to see what this might be. +Quoth he: "He redes you rightly, / this keen minstrel knight. +Ye followers of Kriemhild, / now pass to rest you for the night. + +1823 + +"The thing whereof ye're minded / will none dare do, I ween. +If aught ye purpose 'gainst us, / on the morrow be that seen, +And let us weary strangers / the night in quiet pass; +I ween, with knights of honor / such evermore the custom was." + +1824 + +Then were led the strangers / into a spacious hall +Where they found prepared / for the warriors one and all +Beds adorned full richly, / that were both wide and long. +Yet planned the Lady Kriemhild / to work on them the direst wrong. + +1825 + +Rich quilted mattress covers / of Arras saw ye there +Lustrous all and silken, / and spreading sheets there were +Wrought of silk of Araby, / the best might e'er be seen. +O'er them lay rich embroidered / stuffs that cast a brilliant sheen. + +1826 + +Coverlets of ermine / full many might ye see, +With sullen sable mingled, / whereunder peacefully +They should rest the night through / till came the shining day. +A king with all retinue / ne'er, I ween, so stately lay. + +1827 + +"Alack for these night-quarters!" / quoth young Giselher, +"Alack for my companions / who this our journey share! +How kind so e'er my sister's / hospitality, +Dead by her devising, / I fear me, are we doomed to be." + +1828 + +"Let now no fears disturb you," / Hagen gave reply; +"Through the hours of sleeping / keep the watch will I. +I trust full well to guard you / until return the day, +Thereof be never fearful; / let then preserve him well who may." + +1829 + +Inclined they all before him / thereat to give him grace. +Then sought they straight their couches; / in sooth 'twas little space +Until was softly resting / every stately man. +But Hagen, valiant hero, / the while to don his armor gan. + +1830 + +Spake then to him the Fiddler, / Volker a doughty thane: +"I'll be thy fellow, Hagen, / an wilt thou not disdain, +While watch this night thou keepest, / until do come the morn." +Right heartily the hero / to Volker then did thanks return. + +1831 + +"God in heaven requite thee, / Volker, trusty fere. +In all my time of trouble / wished I none other near, +None other but thee only, / when dangers round me throng. +I'll well repay that favor, / if death withhold its hand so long." + +1832 + +Arrayed in glittering armor / both soon did ready stand; +Each did take unto him / a mighty shield in hand, +And passed without the portal / there to keep the way. +Thus were the strangers guarded, / and trusty watchers eke had they. + +1833 + +Volker the valiant, / as he sat before the hall, +Leaned his trusty buckler / meanwhile against the wall, +Then took in hand his fiddle / as he was wont to do: +All times the thane would render / unto his friends a service true. + +1834 + +Beneath the hall's wide portal / he sat on bench of stone; +Than he a bolder fiddler / was there never none. +As from his chords sweet echoes / resounded through the hall, +Thanks for glad refreshment / had Volker from the warriors all. + +1835 + +Then from the strings an echo / the wide hall did fill, +For in his fiddle-playing / the knight had strength and skill. +Softer then and sweeter / to fiddle he began +And wiled to peaceful slumber / many an anxious brooding man. + +1836 + +When they were wrapped in slumber / and he did understand, +Then took again the warrior / his trusty shield in hand +And passed without the portal / to guard the entrance tower, +And safe to keep his fellows / where Kriemhild's crafty men did lower. + +1837 + +About the hour of midnight, / or earlier perchance, +The eye of valiant Volker / did catch a helmet's glance +Afar from out the darkness: / the men of Kriemhild sought +How that upon the strangers / might grievous scathe in stealth be + wrought. + +1838 + +Quoth thereat the Fiddler: / "Friend Hagen, 'tis full clear +That we do well together / here this watch to share. +I see before us yonder / men armed for the fight; +I ween they will attack us, / if I their purpose judge aright." + +1839 + +"Be silent, then," spake Hagen, / "and let them come more nigh. +Ere that they perceive us / shall helmets sit awry, +By good swords disjointed / that in our hands do swing. +Tale of vigorous greeting / shall they back to Kriemhild bring." + +1840 + +Amid the Hunnish warriors / one full soon did see, +That well the door was guarded; / straightway then cried he: +"The thing we here did purpose / 'tis need we now give o'er, +For I behold the Fiddler / standing guard before the door. + +1841 + +"Upon his head a helmet / of glancing light is seen, +Welded strong and skilful, / dintless, of clearest sheen. +The mail-rings of his armor / do sparkle like the fire, +Beside him stands eke Hagen; / safe are the strangers from our ire." + +1842 + +Straightway they back returned. / When Volker that did see, +Unto his companion / wrathfully spake he: +"Now let me to those caitiffs / across the court-yard go; +What mean they by such business, / from Kriemhild's men I fain would + know." + +1843 + +"No, as thou dost love me," / Hagen straight replied; +"If from this hall thou partest, / such ill may thee betide +At hands of these bold warriors / and from the swords they bear, +That I must haste to help thee, / though here our kinsmen's bane it were. + +1844 + +"Soon as we two together / have joined with them in fight, +A pair or two among them / will surely hasten straight +Hither to this hall here, / and work such havoc sore +Upon our sleeping brethren, / as must be mourned evermore." + +1845 + +Thereto gave answer Volker: / "So much natheless must be, +That they do learn full certain / how I the knaves did see, +That the men of Kriemhild / hereafter not deny +What they had wrought full gladly / here with foulest treachery." + +1846 + +Straightway then unto them / aloud did Volker call: +"How go ye thus in armor, / ye valiant warriors all? +Or forth, perchance, a-robbing, / Kriemhild's men, go ye? +Myself and my companion / shall ye then have for company." + +1847 + +Thereto no man gave answer. / Wrathful grew his mood: +"Fie, ye caitiff villains," / spake the hero good, +"Would ye us so foully / have murdered while we slept? +With knights so high in honor / full seldom thus hath faith been kept." + +1848 + +Then unto Queen Kriemhild / were the tidings borne, +How her men did fail their purpose: / 'twas cause for her to mourn. +Yet otherwise she wrought it, / for grim she was of mood: +Anon through her must perish / full many a valorous knight and good. + + + + +THIRTY-FIRST ADVENTURE + +How they went to Mass + +1849 + +"So cool doth grow my armor," / Volker made remark, +"I ween but little longer / will endure the dark. +By the air do I perceive it, / that soon will break the day." +Then waked they many a warrior / who still in deepest slumber lay. + +1850 + +When brake the light of morning / athwart the spacious hall, +Hagen gan awaken / the stranger warriors all, +If that they to the minster / would go to holy mass. +After the Christian custom, / of bells a mickle ringing was. + +1851 + +There sang they all uneven, / that plainly might ye see +How Christian men and heathen / did not full well agree. +Each one of Gunther's warriors / would hear the service sung, +So were they all together / up from their night-couches sprung. + +1852 + +Then did the warriors lace them / in so goodly dress, +That never heroes any, / that king did e'er possess, +More richly stood attired; / that Hagen grieved to see. +Quoth he: "Ye knights, far other / here must your attire be. + +1853 + +"Yea, know among you many / how here the case doth stand. +Bear ye instead of roses / your good swords in hand, +For chaplets all bejewelled / your glancing helmets good, +Since we have well perceived / how is the angry Kriemhild's mood. + +1854 + +"To-day must we do battle, / that will I now declare. +Instead of silken tunic / shall ye good hauberks wear, +And for embroidered mantle / a trusty shield and wide, +That ye may well defend you, / if ye must others' anger bide. + +1855 + +"My masters well beloved, / knights and kinsmen true, +'Tis meet that ye betake you / unto the minster too, +That God do not forsake you / in peril and in need, +For certain now I make you / that death is nigh to us indeed. + +1856 + +"Forget ye not whatever / wrong ye e'er have done, +But there 'fore God right meekly / all your errors own; +Thereto would I advise you, / ye knights of high degree, +For God alone in heaven / may will that other mass ye see." + +1857 + +Thus went they to the minster, / the princes and their men. +Within the holy churchyard / bade them Hagen then +Stand all still together / that they part not at all. +Quoth he: "Knows not any / what may at hands of Huns befall. + +1858 + +"Let stand, good friends, all ready, / your shields before your feet, +That if ever any / would you in malice greet, +With deep-cut wound ye pay him; / that is Hagen's rede, +That from men may never / aught but praises be your meed." + +1859 + +Volker and Hagen, / the twain thence did pass +Before the broad minster. / Therein their purpose was +That the royal Kriemhild / must meet them where they stood +There athwart her pathway. / In sooth full grim she was of mood. + +1860 + +Then came the royal Etzel / and eke his spouse full fair. +Attired were the warriors / all in raiment rare +That following full stately / with her ye might see; +The dust arose all densely / round Kriemhild's mickle company. + +1861 + +When the lofty monarch / thus all armed did see +The kings and their followers, / straightway then cried he: +"How see I in this fashion / my friends with helm on head? +By my troth I sorrow / if ill to them have happened. + +1862 + +"I'll gladly make atonement / as doth to them belong. +Hath any them affronted / or done them aught of wrong, +To me 'tis mickle sorrow, / well may they understand. +To serve them am I ready, / in whatsoever they command." + +1863 + +Thereto gave answer Hagen: / "Here hath wronged us none. +'Tis custom of my masters / to keep their armor on +Till full three days be over, / when high festival they hold. +Did any here molest us, / to Etzel would the thing be told." + +1864 + +Full well heard Kriemhild likewise / how Hagen gave reply. +Upon him what fierce glances / flashed furtively her eye! +Yet betray she would not / the custom of her country, +Though well she long had known it / in the land of Burgundy. + +1865 + +How grim soe'er and mighty / the hate to them she bore, +Had any told to Etzel / how stood the thing before, +Well had he prevented / what there anon befell. +So haughty were they minded / that none to him the same would tell. + +1866 + +With the queen came forward / there a mighty train, +But no two handbreadths yielded / yet those warriors twain +To make way before her. / The Huns did wrathful grow, +That their mistress passing / should by them be jostled so. + +1867 + +Etzel's highborn pages / were sore displeased thereat, +And had upon the strangers / straightway spent their hate, +But that they durst not do it / their high lord before. +There was a mickle pressing, / yet naught of anger happened more. + +1868 + +When they thence were parting / from holy service done, +On horse came quickly prancing / full many a nimble Hun. +With the Lady Kriemhild / went many a maiden fair, +And eke to make her escort / seven thousand knights rode there. + +1869 + +Kriemhild with her ladies / within the casement sat +By Etzel, mighty monarch, / --full pleased he was thereat. +They wished to view the tourney / of knights beyond compare. +What host of strangers riding / thronged the court before them there! + +1870 + +The marshal with the squires / not in vain ye sought, +Dankwart the full valiant: / with him had he brought +His royal master's followers / of the land of Burgundy. +For the valiant Nibelungen / the steeds well saddled might ye see. + +1871 + +When their steeds they mounted, / the kings and all their men, +Volker thane full doughty, / gave his counsel then, +That after their country's fashion / they ride a mass mellay. +His rede the heroes followed / and tourneyed in full stately way. + +1872 + +The knight had counsel given / in sooth that pleased them well; +The clash of arms in mellay / soon full loud did swell. +Many a valiant warrior / did thereto resort, +As Etzel and Kriemhild / looked down upon the spacious court. + +1873 + +Came there unto the mellay / six hundred knights of those +That followed Dietrich's bidding, / the strangers to oppose. +Pastime would they make them / with the men of Burgundy, +And if he leave had granted. / had done the same right willingly. + +1874 + +In their company rode there / how many a warrior bold! +When unto Sir Dietrich / then the thing was told, +Forbade he that 'gainst Gunther's / men they join the play. +He feared lest harm befall them, / and well his counsel did he weigh. + +1875 + +When of Bern the warriors / thence departed were, +Came they of Bechelaren, / the men of Ruediger, +Bearing shield five hundred, / and rode before the hall; +Rather had the margrave / that they came there not at all. + +1876 + +Prudently then rode he / amid their company +And told unto his warriors / how they might plainly see, +That the men of Gunther / were in evil mood: +Did they forego the mellay, / please him better far it would. + +1877 + +When they were thence departed, / the stately knights and bold, +Came they of Thuringia, / as hath to us been told, +And of them of Denmark / a thousand warriors keen. +From crash of spear up-flying / full frequent were the splinters seen. + +1878 + +Irnfried and Hawart / rode into the mellay, +Whom the gallant men of Rhineland / received in knightly play: +Full oft the men of Thuringia / they met in tournament, +Whereby the piercing lance-point / through many a stately shield was + sent. + +1879 + +Eke with three thousand warriors / came Sir Bloedel there. +Etzel and Kriemhild / were of his coming ware, +As this play of chivalry / before them they did see. +Now hoped the queen that evil / befall the men of Burgundy. + +1880 + +Schrutan and Gibecke / rode into the mellay, +Eke Ramung and Hornbog / after the Hunnish way; +Yet must they come to standstill / 'fore the thanes of Burgundy. +High against the palace / wall the splintered shafts did fly. + +1881 + +How keen soe'er the contest, / 'twas naught but knightly sport. +With shock of shields and lances / heard ye the palace court +Loud give back the echo / where Gunther's men rode on. +His followers in the jousting / on every side high honor won. + +1882 + +So long they held such pastime / and with so mickle heat +That through the broidered trappings / oozed clear drops of sweat +From the prancing chargers / whereon the knights did ride. +In full gallant manner / their skill against the Huns they tried. + +1883 + +Then outspake the Fiddler, / Volker deft of hand: +"These knights, I ween, too timid / are 'gainst us to stand. +Oft did I hear the story / what hate to us they bore; +Than this a fairer season / to vent it, find they nevermore." + +1884 + +"Lead back unto the stables," / once more spake Volker then, +"Now our weary chargers; / we'll ride perchance again +When comes the cool of evening, / if fitting time there be. +Mayhap the queen will honor / award to men of Burgundy." + +1885 + +Beheld they then prick hither / one dressed in state so rare +That of the Huns none other / might with him compare. +Belike from castle tower / did watch his fair lady; +So gay was his apparel / as it some knight's bride might be. + +1886 + +Then again quoth Volker: / "How may I stay my hand? +Yonder ladies' darling / a knock shall understand. +Let no man here deter me, / I'll give him sudden check. +How spouse of royal Etzel / thereat may rage, I little reck." + +1887 + +"Nay, as thou dost love me," / straight King Gunther spake; +"All men will but reproach us / if such affront we make. +The Huns be first offenders, / for such would more befit." +Still did the royal Etzel / in casement by Queen Kriemhild sit. + +1888 + +"I'll add unto the mellay," / Hagen did declare; +"Let now all these ladies / and knights be made aware +How we can ride a charger; / 'twere well we make it known, +For, come what may, small honor / shall here to Gunther's men be shown." + +1889 + +Once more the nimble Volker / into the mellay spurred, +Whereat full many a lady / soon to weep was heard. +His lance right through the body / of that gay Hun he sent: +'Twas cause that many a woman / and maiden fair must sore lament. + +1890 + +Straight dashed into the mellay / Hagen and his men. +With three score of his warriors / spurred he quickly then +Forward where the Fiddler / played so lustily. +Etzel and Kriemhild / full plainly might the passage see. + +1891 + +Then would the kings their minstrel / --that may ye fairly know-- +Leave not all defenceless / there amid the foe. +With them a thousand heroes / rode forth full dexterously, +And soon had gained their purpose / with show of proudest chivalry. + +1892 + +When in such rude fashion / the stately Hun was slain, +Might ye hear his kinsmen / weeping loud complain. +Then all around did clamor: / "Who hath the slayer been?" +"None but the Fiddler was it, / Volker the minstrel keen." + +1893 + +For swords and for shields then / called full speedily +That slain margrave's kinsmen / of the Hun's country. +To avenge him sought they / Volker in turn to slay. +In haste down from the casement / royal Etzel made his way. + +1894 + +Arose a mighty clamor / from the people all; +The kings and men of Burgundy / dismounted 'fore the hall, +And likewise their chargers / to the rear did send. +Came then the mighty Etzel / and sought to bring the strife to end. + +1895 + +From one of that Hun's kinsmen / who near by him did stand +Snatched he a mighty weapon / quick from out his hand, +And therewith backward smote them, / for fierce his anger wrought. +"Shall thus my hospitality / unto these knights be brought to naught?" + +1896 + +"If ye the valiant minstrel / here 'fore me should slay," +Spake the royal Etzel, / "it were an evil day. +When he the Hun impaled / I did observe full well, +That not through evil purpose / but by mishap it so befell. + +1897 + +"These my guests now must ye / ne'er disturb in aught." +Himself became their escort. / Away their steeds were brought +Unto the stables / by many a waiting squire, +Who ready at their bidding / stood to meet their least desire. + +1898 + +The host with the strangers / into the palace went, +Nor would he suffer any / further his wrath to vent. +Soon were the tables ready / and water for them did wait. +Many then had gladly / on them of Rhineland spent their hate. + +1899 + +Not yet the lords were seated / till some time was o'er. +For Kriemhild o'er her sorrow / meantime did trouble sore. +She spake: "Of Bern, O Master, / thy counsel grant to me, +Thy help and eke thy mercy, / for here in sorry plight I be." + +1900 + +To her gave answer Hildebrand, / a thane right praiseworthy: +"Who harms the Nibelungen / shall ne'er have help of me, +How great soe'er the guerdon. / Such deed he well may rue, +For never yet did any / these gallant doughty knights subdue." + +1901 + +Eke in courteous manner / Sir Dietrich her addressed: +"Vain, O lofty mistress, / unto me thy quest. +In sooth thy lofty kinsmen / have wronged me not at all, +That I on thanes so valorous / should thus with murderous purpose fall. + +1902 + +"Thy prayer doth thee small honor, / O high and royal dame, +That upon thy kinsmen / thou so dost counsel shame. +Thy grace to have they deemed / when came they to this land. +Nevermore shall Siegfried / avenged be by Dietrich's hand." + +1903 + +When she no guile discovered / in the knight of Bern, +Unto Bloedel straightway / did she hopeful turn +With promise of wide marches / that Nudung erst did own. +Slew him later Dankwart / that he forgot the gift full soon. + +1904 + +Spake she: "Do thou help me, / Sir Bloedel, I pray. +Yea, within the palace / are foes of mine this day, +Who erstwhile slew Siegfried, / spouse full dear to me. +Who helps me to avenge it, / to him I'll e'er beholden be." + +1905 + +Thereto gave answer Bloedel: / "Lady, be well aware, +Ne'er to do them evil / 'fore Etzel may I dare, +For to thy kinsmen, lady, / beareth he good will. +Ne'er might the king me pardon, / wrought I upon them aught of ill." + +1906 + +"But nay, Sir Bloedel, my favor / shall thou have evermore. +Yea, give I thee for guerdon / silver and gold in store, +And eke a fairest lady, / that Nudung erst should wed: +By her fond embraces / may'st thou well be comforted. + +1907 + +"The land and eke the castles, / all to thee I'll give; +Yea, may'st thou, knight full noble, / in joyance ever live, +Call'st thou thine the marches, / wherein did Nudung dwell. +Whate'er this day I promise, / fulfil it all I will full well." + +1908 + +When understood Sir Bloedel / what gain should be his share, +And pleased him well the lady / for that she was so fair, +By force of arms then thought he / to win her for his wife. +Thereby the knight aspirant / was doomed anon to lose his life. + +1909 + +"Unto the hall betake thee," / quoth he unto the queen, +"Alarum I will make thee / ere any know, I ween. +Atone shall surely Hagen / where he hath done thee wrong: +To thee I'll soon give over / King Gunther's man in fetters strong." + +1910 + +"To arms, to arms!" quoth Bloedel, / "my good warriors all: +In their followers' quarters / upon the foe we'll fall. +Herefrom will not release me / royal Etzel's wife. +To win this venture therefore / fear not each one to lose his life." + +1911 + +When at length Queen Kriemhild / found Bloedel well content +To fulfil her bidding, / she to table went +With the monarch Etzel / and eke a goodly band. +Dire was the treason / she against the guests had planned. + +1912 + +Since in none other manner / she knew the strife to start, +(Kriemhild's ancient sorrow / still rankled in her heart), +Bade she bring to table / Etzel's youthful son: +By woman bent on vengeance / how might more awful deed be done? + +1913 + +Went upon the instant / four of Etzel's men, +And soon came bearing Ortlieb, / the royal scion, then +Unto the princes' table, / where eke grim Hagen sate. +The child was doomed to perish / by reason of his deadly hate. + +1914 + +When the mighty monarch / then his child did see, +Unto his lady's kinsmen / in manner kind spake he: +"Now, my good friends, behold ye / here my only son, +And child of your high sister: / may it bring you profit every one. + +1915 + +"Grow he but like his kindred, / a valiant man he'll be, +A mighty king and noble, / doughty and fair to see. +Live I but yet a little, / twelve lands shall he command; +May ye have faithful service / from the youthful Ortlieb's hand. + +1916 + +"Therefore grant me favor, / ye good friends of mine; +When to your country ride ye / again unto the Rhine, +Shall ye then take with you / this your sister's son, +And at your hands may ever / by the child full fair be done. + +1917 + +"Bring him up in honor / until to manhood grown. +If then in any country / hath wrong to you been done, +He'll help you by his valor / vengeance swift to wreak." +Eke heard the Lady Kriemhild / royal Etzel thus to speak. + +1918 + +"Well might these my masters / on his faith rely, +Grew he e'er to manhood," / Hagen made reply: +"Yet is the prince, I fear me, / more early doomed of fate. +'Twere strange did any see me / ever at court on Ortlieb wait." + +1919 + +The monarch glanced at Hagen, / sore grieved at what he heard; +Although the king full gallant / thereto spake ne'er a word, +Natheless his heart was saddened / and heavy was his mind. +Nowise the mood of Hagen / was to merriment inclined. + +1920 + +It grieved all the princes / and the royal host +That of his child did Hagen / make such idle boast. +That they must likewise leave it / unanswered, liked they not: +They little weaned what havoc / should by the thane anon be wrought. + + + + +THIRTY-SECOND ADVENTURE + +How Bloedel was Slain + +1921 + +The knights by Bloedel summoned / soon armed and ready were, +A thousand wearing hauberks / straightway did repair +Where Dankwart sat at table / with many a goodly squire. +Soon knight on knight was seeking / in fiercest way to vent his ire. + +1922 + +When there Sir Bloedel / strode unto the board, +Dankwart the marshal / thus spoke courteous word: +"Unto this hall right welcome / good Sir Bloedel be. +What business hast thou hither / is cause of wonder yet to me." + +1923 + +"No greeting here befits thee," / spake Bloedel presently, +"For that this my coming / now thy end must be, +Through Hagen's fault, thy brother, / who Siegfried erstwhile slew +To the Huns thou mak'st atonement, / and many another warrior too." + +1924 + +"But nay, but nay, Sir Bloedel," / Dankwart spake thereto, +"For so should we have reason / our coming here to rue. +A child I was and little / when Siegfried lost his life, +Nor know I why reproacheth / me the royal Etzel's wife." + +1925 + +"In sooth I may the story / never fully tell. +Gunther and Hagen was it / by whom the deed befell. +Now guard you well, ye strangers, / for doomed in sooth are ye, +Unto Lady Kriemhild / must your lives now forfeit be." + +1926 + +"An so thou wilt desist not," / Dankwart declared, +"Regret I my entreaty, / my toil were better spared." +The nimble thane and valiant / up from the table sprung, +And drew a keen-edged weapon, / great in sooth that was and long. + +1927 + +Then smote he with it Bloedel / such a sudden blow +That his head full sudden / before his feet lay low. +"Be that thy wedding-dower," / the doughty Dankwart spake, +"Along with bride of Nudung / whom thou would'st to thy bosom take. + +1928 + +"To-morrow may she marry, / but some other one: +Will he have bridal portion, / e'en so to him be done." +A Hun that liked not treason / had given him to know +How that the queen upon him / thought to work so grievous woe. + +1929 + +When the men of Bloedel / saw thus their master slain, +To fall upon the strangers / would they longer not refrain. +With swords swung high above them / upon the squires they flew +In a grimmest humor. / Soon many must that rashness rue. + +1930 + +Full loudly cried then Dankwart / to all his company: +"Behold ye, noble squires, / the fate that ours must be. +Now quit yourselves with valor, / for evil is our pass, +Though fair to us the summons / hither from Lady Kriemhild was!" + +1931 + +They, too, reached down before them, / who no weapons bore, +And each a massive footstool / snatched from off the floor, +For the Burgundian squires / no whit were they dismayed; +And by the selfsame weapons / was many a dint in helmet made. + +1932 + +How fierce they fought to shield them / the strangers one and all! +E'en their armed foemen / drove they from the hall. +Or smote dead within it / hundreds five or more; +All the valiant fighters / saw ye drenched with ruddy gore. + +1933 + +Ere long the wondrous tidings / some messenger did tell +Unto Etzel's chieftain / --fierce did their anger swell-- +How that slain was Bloedel / and knights full many a one; +The which had Hagen's brother / with his lusty squires done. + +1934 + +The Huns, by anger driven, / ere Etzel was aware, +Two thousand men or over, / did quick themselves prepare. +They fell upon those squires / --e'en so it had to be-- +And never any living / they left of all that company. + +1935 + +A mickle host they faithless / unto those quarters brought, +But lustily the strangers / 'gainst their assailants fought. +What booted swiftest valor? / Soon must all lie dead. +A dire woe thereafter / on many a man was visited. + +1936 + +Now may ye hear a wondrous / tale of honor told: +Of squires full nine thousand / soon in death lay cold, +And eke good knights a dozen / there of Dankwart's band. +Forlorn ye saw him only / the last amid his foemen stand. + +1937 + +The din at last was ended / and lulled the battle-sound, +When the valiant Dankwart / did cast a glance around. +"Alack for my companions," / cried he, "now from me reft. +Alack that I now only / forlorn amid my foes am left." + +1938 + +The swords upon his body / fell full thick and fast, +Which rashness many a warrior's / widow mourned at last. +His shield he higher lifted / and drew the strap more low: +Down coats of ring-made armor / made he the ebbing blood to flow. + +1939 + +"O woe is me!" spake Dankwart, / the son of Aldrian. +"Now back, ye Hunnish fighters, / let me the open gain, +That the air give cooling / to me storm-weary wight." +In splendid valor moving / strode forward then anew the knight. + +1940 + +As thus he battle-weary / through the hall's portal sprang, +What swords of new-come fighters / upon his helmet rang! +They who not yet had witnessed / what wonders wrought his hand, +Rashly rushed they forward / to thwart him of Burgundian land. + +1941 + +"Now would to God," quoth Dankwart, / "I found a messenger +Who to my brother Hagen / might the tidings bear, +That 'fore host of foemen / in such sad case am I! +From hence he'd surely help me, / or by my side he slain would lie." + +1942 + +Then Hunnish knights gave answer: / "Thyself the messenger +Shalt be, when to thy brother / thee a corse we bear. +So shall that thane of Gunther / first true sorrow know. +Upon the royal Etzel / here hast thou wrought so grievous woe." + +1943 + +Quoth he: "Now leave such boasting / and yield me passage free, +Else shall mail-rings a many / with blood bespattered be. +Myself will tell the tidings / soon at Etzel's court, +And eke unto my masters / of this my travail make report." + +1944 + +Etzel's men around him / belabored he so sore +That they at sword-point / durst not withstand him more. +Spears shot into his shield he / so many there did stop +That he the weight unwieldy / must from out his hand let drop. + +1945 + +Then thought they to subdue him / thus of his shield bereft, +But lo! the mighty gashes / wherewith he helmets cleft! +Must there keen knights full many / before him stagger down, +High praise the valiant Dankwart / thereby for his valor won. + +1946 + +On right side and on left side / they still beset his way, +Yet many a one too rashly / did mingle in the fray. +Thus strode he 'mid the foemen / as doth in wood the boar +By yelping hounds beleaguered; / more stoutly fought he ne'er before. + +1947 + +As there he went, his pathway / with reeking blood was wet. +Yea, never any hero / more bravely battled yet +When by foes surrounded, / than he did might display. +To court did Hagen's brother / with splendid valor make his way. + +1948 + +When stewards and cup-bearers / heard how sword-blades rung, +Many a brimming goblet / from their hands they flung +And eke the viands ready / that they to table bore; +Thus many doughty foemen / withstood him where he sought the door. + +1949 + +"How now, ye stewards?" / cried the weary knight; +"'Twere better that ye tended / rather your guests aright, +Bearing to lords at table / choice food that fitteth well, +And suffered me these tidings / unto my masters dear to tell." + +1950 + +Whoe'er before him rashly / athwart the stairway sprung, +On him with blow so heavy / his mighty sword he swung, +That soon faint heart gave warning / before his path to yield. +Mickle wonder wrought he / where sword his doughty arm did wield. + + + + +THIRTY-THIRD ADVENTURE + +How the Burgundians fought with the Huns + +1951 + +Soon as the valiant Dankwart / stood beneath the door, +Bade he Etzel's followers / all make way before. +With blood from armor streaming / did there the hero stand; +A sharp and mighty weapon / bore he naked in his hand. + +1952 + +Into the hall then Dankwart / cried with voice full strong: +"At table, brother Hagen, / thou sittest all too long. +To thee and God in heaven / must I sore complain: +Knights and squires also / lie within their lodging slain." + +1953 + +Straight he cried in answer: / "Who hath done such deed?" +"That hath done Sir Bloedel / and knights that he did lead. +Eke made he meet atonement, / that may'st thou understand: +His head from off his body / have I struck with mine own hand." + +1954 + +"'Tis little cause for sorrow," / Hagen spake again, +"When they tell the story / of a valiant thane, +That he to death was smitten / by knight of high degree. +The less a cause for weeping / to winsome women shall it be. + +1955 + +"Now tell me, brother Dankwart, / how thou so red may'st be; +From thy wounds thou sufferest, / I ween, full grievously. +Lives he within this country / who serves thee in such way, +Him must the devil shelter, / or for the deed his life shall pay." + +1956 + +"Behold me here all scatheless. / My gear is wet with blood, +From wounds of others, natheless, / now hath flowed that flood, +Of whom this day so many / beneath my broadsword fell: +Must I make solemn witness, / ne'er knew I full the tale to tell." + +1957 + +He answered: "Brother Dankwart, / now take thy stand before, +And Huns let never any / make passage by the door. +I'll speak unto these warriors, / as needs must spoken be: +Dead lie all our followers, / slain by foulest treachery." + +1958 + +"Must I here be chamberlain," / replied the warrior keen, +"Well know I such high monarchs / aright to serve, I ween. +So will I guard the stairway / as sorts with honor well." +Ne'er to the thanes of Kriemhild / so sorry case before befell. + +1959 + +"To me 'tis mickle wonder," / Hagen spake again, +"What thing unto his neighbor / whispers each Hunnish thane. +I ween they'd forego the service / of him who keeps the door, +And who such high court tidings / to his friends of Burgundy bore. + +1960 + +"Long since of Lady Kriemhild / the story I did hear, +How unavenged her sorrow / she might no longer bear. +A memory-cup now quaff we / and pay for royal cheer! +The youthful lord of Hunland / shall make the first instalment here." + +1961 + +Thereat the child Ortlieb / doughty Hagen slew, +That from the sword downward / the blood to hand-grip flew, +And into lap of Kriemhild / the severed head down rolled. +Then might ye see 'mid warriors / a slaughter great and grim unfold. + +1962 + +By both hands swiftly wielded, / his blade then cut the air +And smote upon the tutor / who had the child in care, +That down before the table / his head that instant lay: +It was a sorry payment / wherewith he did the tutor pay. + +1963 + +His eye 'fore Etzel's table / a minstrel espied: +To whom in hasty manner / did wrathful Hagen stride, +Where moved it on the fiddle / his right hand off smote he; +"Have that for thy message / unto the land of Burgundy." + +1964 + +"Alack my hand!" did Werbel / that same minstrel moan; +"What, Sir Hagen of Tronje, / have I to thee done? +I bore a faithful message / unto thy master's land. +How may I more make music / thus by thee bereft of hand?" + +1965 + +Little in sooth recked Hagen, / fiddled he nevermore. +Then in the hall all wrathful / wrought he havoc sore +Upon the thanes of Etzel / whereof he many slew; +Ere they might find exit, / to death then smote he not a few. + +1966 + +Volker the full valiant / up sprang from board also: +In his hand full clearly / rang out his fiddle-bow, +For mightily did fiddle / Gunther's minstrel thane. +What host of foes he made him / because of Hunnish warriors slain! + +1967 + +Eke sprang from the table / the lofty monarchs three, +Who glad had stilled the combat / ere greater scathe might be. +Yet all their art availed not / their anger to assuage, +When Volker and Hagen / so mightily began to rage. + +1968 + +When the lord of Rhineland / saw how his toil was vain, +Gaping wounds full many / himself did smite amain +Through rings of shining mail-coats / there upon the foe. +He was a valiant hero, / as he full gallantly did show. + +1969 + +Strode eke into the combat / Gernot a doughty thane; +By whom of Hunnish warriors / full many a one was slain +With a sword sharp-edged / he had of Ruediger; +Oft sent to dire ruin / by him the knights of Etzel were. + +1970 + +The youthful son of Ute / eke to the combat sprang, +And merrily his broadsword / upon the helmets rang +Of many a Hunnish warrior / there in Etzel's land; +Feasts of mickle wonder / wrought Giselher with dauntless hand. + +1971 + +How bold soe'er was any, / of kings and warrior band, +Saw ye yet the foremost / Giselher to stand +There against the foemen, / a knight of valor good; +Wounded deep full many / made he to fall in oozing blood. + +1972 + +Eke full well defend them / did Etzel's warriors too. +There might ye see the strangers / their gory way to hew +With swords all brightly gleaming / adown that royal hall; +Heard ye there on all sides / loudly ring the battle-call. + +1973 + +Join friends within beleaguered / would they without full fain, +Yet might they at the portal / but little vantage gain. +Eke they within had gladly / gained the outer air; +Nor up nor down did Dankwart / suffer one to pass the stair. + +1974 + +There before the portal / surged a mighty throng, +And with a mickle clangor / on helm the broadsword rung. +Thus on the valiant Dankwart / his foes did sorely press, +And soon his trusty brother / was anxious grown o'er his distress. + +1975 + +Full loudly cried then Hagen / unto Volker: +"Trusty fere, behold'st thou / my brother standing there, +Where on him Hunnish warriors / their mighty blows do rain? +Good friend, save thou my brother / ere we do lose the valiant thane." + +1976 + +"That will I do full surely," / thereat the minstrel spake. +Adown the hall he fiddling / gan his way to make; +In his hand full often / a trusty sword rang out, +While grateful knights of Rhineland / acclaimed him with a mickle shout. + +1977 + +Soon did the valiant Volker / Dankwart thus address: +"Hard this day upon thee / hath weighed the battle's stress. +That I should come to help thee / thy brother gave command; +Keep thou without the portal, / I inward guarding here will stand." + +1978 + +Dankwart, thane right valiant, / stood without the door +And guarded so the stairway / that none might pass before. +There heard ye broadswords ringing, / swung by warrior's hand, +While inward in like manner / wrought Volker of Burgundian land. + +1979 + +There the valiant Fiddler / above the press did call: +"Securely now, friend Hagen, / closed is the hall. +Yea, so firmly bolted / is King Etzel's door +By hands of two good warriors, / as thousand bars were set before," + +1980 + +When Hagen thus of Tronje / the door did guarded find, +The warrior far renowned / swung his shield behind; +He first for harm received / revenge began to take, +Whereat all hope of living / did soon his enemies forsake. + +1981 + +When of Bern Sir Dietrich / rightly did perceive +How the doughty Hagen / did many a helmet cleave, +The king of Amelungen / upon a bench leaped up; +Quoth he: "Here poureth Hagen / for us exceeding bitter cup." + +1982 + +Great fear fell eke on Etzel, / as well might be the case, +(What trusty followers snatched they / to death before his face!) +For well nigh did his enemies / on him destruction bring. +There sat he all confounded. / What booted him to be a king? + +1983 + +Cried then aloud to Dietrich / Kriemhild, the high lady: +"Now help me, knight so noble, / that hence with life I flee, +By princely worth, I pray thee, / thou lord of Amelung's land; +If here do reach me Hagen, / straight find I death beneath his hand." + +1984 + +"How may my help avail thee, / noble queen and high?" +Answered her Sir Dietrich, / "Fear for myself have I. +Too sorely is enraged / each knight in Gunther's band, +To no one at this season / may I lend assisting hand." + +1985 + +"But nay, but nay, Sir Dietrich, / full noble knight and keen, +What maketh thy bright chivalry, / let it this day be seen, +And bring me hence to safety, / else am I death's sure prey." +Good cause was that on Kriemhild's / bosom fear so heavy lay. + +1986 + +"So will I here endeavor / to help thee as I may; +Yet shalt thou well believe me, / hath passed full many a day +Since saw I goodly warriors / of so bitter mood. +'Neath swords behold I flowing / through helmets plenteously the blood." + +1987 + +Lustily then cried he, / the warrior nobly born, +That his voice rang loudly / like blast from bison's horn, +That all around the palace / gave back the lusty sound; +Unto the might of Dietrich / never limit yet was found. + +1988 + +When did hear King Gunther / how called the doughty man +Above the storm of combat, / to hearken he began. +Quoth he: "The voice of Dietrich / hath fallen upon mine ear; +I ween some of his followers / before our thanes have fallen here. + +1989 + +"High on the board I see him; / he beckons with the hand. +Now my good friends and kinsmen / of Burgundian land, +Stay ye your hands from conflict, / let us hear and see +If done upon the chieftain / aught by my men of scathe there be." + +1990 + +When thus King Gunther / did beg and eke command, +With swords in stress of battle / stayed they all the hand. +'Twas token of his power / that straight the strife did pause. +Then him of Bern he questioned / what of his outcry were the cause. + +1991 + +He spake: "Full noble Dietrich, / what here on thee is wrought +By any of my warriors? / For truly is my thought +To make a full atonement / and amends to thee. +If here hath wronged thee any, / 'twere cause of mickle grief to me." + +1992 + +Then answered him Sir Dietrich: / "Myself do nothing grieve. +Grant me with thy protection / but this hall to leave +And quit the dire conflict, / with them that me obey. +Then surely will I ever / seek thy favor to repay." + +1993 + +"How plead'st thou thus so early?" / Wolfhart was heard; +"The Fiddler so securely / the door not yet hath barred, +But it so wide we'll open / to pass it through, I trow." +"Now hold thy peace," quoth Dietrich, / "wrought but little here hast + thou." + +1994 + +Then spake the royal Gunther: / "That grant I thee to do, +Forth from the hall lead many / or lead with thee few, +An if my foes it be not; / here stay they every one. +Upon me here in Hunland / hath grievous wrong by them been done." + +1995 + +When heard he Gunther's answer / he took beneath his arm +The noble Queen Kriemhild, / who dreaded mickle harm. +On the other side too led he / Etzel with him away; +Eke went thence with Dietrich / six hundred knights in fair array. + +1996 + +Then outspake the margrave, / the noble Ruediger: +"If leave to any others / be granted forth to fare, +Of those who glad would serve you, / give us the same to see. +Yea, peace that's never broken / 'twixt friends 'tis meet should ever + be." + +1997 + +Thereto gave answer Giselher / of the land of Burgundy: +"Peace and unbroken friendship / wish we e'er with thee, +With thee and all thy kinsmen, / as true thou ever art. +We grant thee all untroubled / with thy friends from hence to part." + +1998 + +When thus Sir Ruediger / from the hall did pass, +A train of knights five hundred / or more with him there was, +Of them of Bechelaren, / kinsmen and warriors true, +Whose parting gave King Gunther / anon full mickle cause to rue. + +1999 + +When did a Hunnish warrior / Etzel's passing see +'Neath the arm of Dietrich, / to profit him thought he. +Smote him yet the Fiddler / such a mighty blow, +That 'fore the feet of Etzel / sheer on the floor his head fell low. + +2000 + +When the country's monarch / had gained the outer air, +Turned he looking backward / and gazed on Volker. +"Alack such guests to harbor! / Ah me discomfited! +That all the knights that serve me / shall before their might lie dead. + +2001 + +"Alack their coming hither!" / spake the king once more. +"Within, a warrior fighteth / like to wild forest boar; +Hight the same is Volker, / and a minstrel is also; +To pass the demon scatheless / I to fortune's favor owe. + +2002 + +"Evil sound his melodies, / his strokes of bow are red, +Yea, beneath his music / full many a knight lies dead. +I know not what against us / hath stirred that player's ire, +For guests ne'er had I any / whereby to suffer woe so dire." + +2003 + +None other would they suffer / to pass the door than those. +Then 'neath the hall's high roof-tree / a mighty din arose. +For evil wrought upon them / those guests sore vengeance take. +Volker the doughty Fiddler, / what shining helmets there he brake! + +2004 + +Gunther, lofty monarch, / thither turned his ear. +"Hear'st thou the music, Hagen, / that yonder Volker +Doth fiddle for the Hun-men, / when near the door they go? +The stroke is red of color, / where he doth draw the fiddle-bow." + +2005 + +"Mickle doth it rue me," / Hagen spake again, +"That in the hall far severed / I am from that bold thane. +I was his boon companion / and he sworn friend to me: +Come we hence ever scatheless, / trusty feres we yet shall be. + +2006 + +"Behold now, lofty sire, / the faith of Volker bold! +With will he seeks to win him / thy silver and thy gold. +With fiddle-bow he cleaveth / e'en the steel so hard, +Bright-gleaming crests of helmets / are scattered by his mighty sword. + +2007 + +"Never saw I fiddler / so dauntless heart display, +As the doughty Volker / here hath done this day. +Through shield and shining helmet / his melodies ring clear; +Give him to ride good charger / and eke full stately raiment wear." + +2008 + +Of all the Hunnish kindred / that in the hall had been, +None now of all their number / therein to fight was seen. +Hushed was the din of battle / and strife no more was made: +From out their hands aweary / their swords the dauntless warriors laid. + + + + +THIRTY-FOURTH ADVENTURE + +How they cast out the Dead + +2009 + +From toil of battle weary / rested the warriors all. +Volker and Hagen / passed out before the hall, +And on their shields did lean them, / those knights whom naught + could daunt. +Then with full merry converse / gan the twain their foes to taunt. + +2010 + +Spake meanwhile of Burgundy / Giselher the thane: +"Not yet, good friends, may ye / think to rest again. +Forth from the hall the corses / shall ye rather bear. +Again we'll be assailed, / that would I now in sooth declare. + +2011 + +"Beneath our feet no longer / here the dead must lie. +But ere in storm of battle / at hand of Huns to die, +We'll deal such wounds around us / as 'tis my joy to see. +Thereon," spake Giselher, / "my heart is fixed right steadfastly." + +2012 + +"I joy in such a master," / Hagen spake again: +"Such counsel well befitteth / alone so valiant thane +As my youthful master / hath shown himself this day. +Therefor, O men of Burgundy, / every one rejoice ye may." + +2013 + +Then followed they his counsel / and from the hall they bore +Seven thousand bodies / and cast them from the door. +Adown the mounting stairway / all together fell, +Whereat a sound of wailing / did from mourning kinsmen swell. + +2014 + +Many a man among them / so slight wound did bear +That he were yet recovered / had he but gentle care, +Who yet falling headlong / now surely must be dead. +Thereat did grieve their kinsmen / as verily was sorest need. + +2015 + +Then outspake the Fiddler, / Volker a hero bold: +"Now do I find how truly / hath to me been told +That cowards are the Hun-men / who do like women weep. +Rather should be their effort / their wounded kin alive to keep." + +2016 + +These words deemed a margrave / spoken in kindly mood. +He saw one of his kinsmen / weltering in his blood. +In his arms he clasped him / and thought him thence to bear, +But as he bent above him / pierced him the valiant minstrel's spear. + +2017 + +When that beheld the others / all in haste they fled, +Crying each one curses / on that same minstrel's head. +From the ground then snatched he / a spear with point full keen, +That 'gainst him up the stairway / by a Hun had hurled been. + +2018 + +Across the court he flung it / with his arm of might +Far above the people. / Then did each Hunnish knight +Seek him safer quarters / more distant from the hall. +To see his mighty prowess / did fill with fear his foemen all. + +2019 + +As knights full many thousand / far 'fore the palace stood, +Volker and Hagen / gan speak in wanton mood +"Unto King Etzel, / nor did they aught withhold; +Wherefrom anon did sorrow / o'ertake those doughty warriors bold. + +2020 + +"'Twould well beseem," quoth Hagen, / "the people's lofty lord +Foremost in storm of battle / to swing the cutting sword, +As do my royal masters / each fair example show. +Where hew they through the helmets / their swords do make the blood to + flow." + +2021 + +To hear such words brave Etzel / snatched in haste his shield. +"Now well beware of rashness," / cried Lady Kriemhild, +"And offer to thy warriors / gold heaped on shield full high: +If yonder Hagen reach thee, / straightway shalt thou surely die." + +2022 + +So high was the king's mettle / that he would not give o'er, +Which case is now full seldom / seen in high princes more; +They must by shield-strap tugging / him perforce restrain. +Grim of mood then Hagen / began him to revile again. + +2023 + +"It was a distant kinship," / spake Hagen, dauntless knight, +"That Etzel unto Siegfried / ever did unite, +And husband he to Kriemhild / was ere thee she knew. +Wherefore, O king faint-hearted, / seek'st thou such thing 'gainst me to + do?" + +2024 + +Thereto eke must listen / the noble monarch's spouse, +And grievously to hear it / did Kriemhild's wrath arouse. +That he 'fore men of Etzel / durst herself upbraid; +To urge them 'gainst the strangers / she once more her arts essayed. + +2025 + +Cried she: "Of Tronje Hagen / whoso for me will slay, +And his head from body severed / here before me lay, +For him the shield of Etzel / I'll fill with ruddy gold, +Eke lands and lordly castles / I'll give him for his own to hold." + +2026 + +"I wot not why they tarry," / --thus the minstrel cried; +"Ne'er saw I heroes any / so their courage hide, +When to them was offered, / like this, reward so high. +'Tis cause henceforth that Etzel / for aye to them goodwill deny." + +2027 + +"Who in such craven manner / do eat their master's bread, +And like caitiffs fail him / in time of greatest need, +Here see I standing many / of courage all forlorn, +Yet would be men of valor; / all time be they upheld to scorn." + + + + +THIRTY-FIFTH ADVENTURE + +How Iring was Slain + +2028 + +Cried then he of Denmark, / Iring the margrave: +"Fixed on things of honor / my purpose long I have, +And oft in storm of battle, / where heroes wrought, was I. +Bring hither now my armor, / with Hagen I'll the combat try." + +2029 + +"I counsel thee against it," / Hagen then replied, +"Or bring a goodly company / of Hun-men by thy side. +If peradventure any / find entrance to the hall, +I'll cause that nowise scatheless / down the steps again they fall." + +2030 + +"Such words may not dissuade me," / Iring spake once more; +"A thing of equal peril / oft have I tried before. +Yea, will I with my broadsword / confront thee all alone. +Nor aught may here avail thee / thus to speak in haughty tone." + +2031 + +Soon the valiant Iring / armed and ready stood, +And Irnfried of Thuringia / a youth of mettle good, +And eke the doughty Hawart, / with thousand warriors tried. +Whate'er his purpose, Iring / should find them faithful by his side. + +2032 + +Advancing then with Iring / did the Fiddler see +All clad in shining armor / a mighty company, +And each a well-made helmet / securely fastened wore. +Thereat the gallant Volker / began to rail in anger sore. + +2033 + +"Seest thou, friend Hagen, / yonder Iring go, +Who all alone to front thee / with his sword did vow? +Doth lying sort with honor? / Scorned the thing must be. +A thousand knights or over / here bear him armed company." + +2034 + +"Now make me not a liar," / cried Hawart's man aloud, +"For firm is still my purpose / to do what now I vowed, +Nor will I turn me from it / through any cause of fear. +Alone I'll stand 'fore Hagen, / awful howsoe'er he were." + +2035 + +On ground did throw him Iring / before his warriors' feet, +That they leave might grant him / alone the knight to meet. +Loath they were to do it; / well known to them might be +The haughty Hagen's prowess / of the land of Burgundy. + +2036 + +Yet so long besought he / that granted was their leave; +When they that followed with him / did his firm mind perceive, +And how 'twas bent on honor, / they not restrained him. +Then closed the two chieftains / together in a combat grim. + +2037 + +Iring of Denmark / raised his spear on high, +And with the shield he covered / himself full skilfully; +He upward rushed on Hagen / unto the hall right close, +When round the clashing fighters / soon a mighty din arose. + +2038 + +Each hurled upon the other / the spear with arm of might, +That the firm shields were pierced / e'en to their mail-coats bright, +And outward still projecting / the long spear-shafts were seen. +In haste then snatched their broadswords / both the fighters grim and + keen. + +2039 + +In might the doughty Hagen / and prowess did abound, +As Iring smote upon him / the hall gave back the sound. +The palace all and towers / re-echoed from their blows, +Yet might that bold assailant / with victory ne'er the combat close. + +2040 + +On Hagen might not Iring / wreak aught of injury. +Unto the doughty Fiddler / in haste then turned he. +Him by his mighty sword-strokes / thought he to subdue, +But well the thane full gallant / to keep him safe in combat knew. + +2041 + +Then smote the doughty Fiddler / so lustily his shield +That from it flew its ornaments / where he the sword did wield. +Iring must leave unconquered / there the dauntless man; +Next upon King Gunther / of Burgundy in wrath he ran. + +2042 + +There did each in combat / show him man of might; +Howe'er did Gunther and Iring / yet each the other smite, +From wounds might never either / make the blood to flow, +So sheltered each his armor, / well wrought that was and strong enow. + +2043 + +Gunther left he standing, / upon Gernot to dash, +And when he smote ring-armor / the fire forth did flash. +But soon had he of Burgundy, / Gernot the doughty thane, +Well nigh his keen assailant / Iring of Denmark slain. + +2044 + +Yet from the prince he freed him, / for nimble was he too. +Four of the men of Burgundy / the knight full sudden slew +Of those that followed with them / from Worms across the Rhine. +Thereupon might nothing / the wrath of Giselher confine. + +2045 + +"God wot well, Sir Iring," / young Giselher then cried, +"Now must thou make requital / for them that here have died +'Neath thy hand so sudden." / He rushed upon him so +And smote the knight of Denmark / that he might not withstand the blow. + +2046 + +Into the blood down fell he / staggering 'neath its might, +That all who there beheld it / might deem the noble knight +Sword again would never / wield amid the fray. +Yet 'neath the stroke of Giselher / Iring all unwounded lay. + +2047 + +Bedazed by helmet's sounding / where ringing sword swung down, +Full suddenly his senses / so from the knight were flown: +That of his life no longer / harbored he a thought. +That the doughty Giselher / by his mighty arm had wrought. + +2048 + +When somewhat was subsided / the din within his head +From mighty blow so sudden / on him was visited, +Thought he: "I still am living / and bear no mortal wound. +How great the might of Giselher, / till now unwitting, have I found." + +2049 + +He hearkened how on all sides / his foes around did stand; +Knew they what he did purpose, / they had not stayed their hand. +He heard the voice of Giselher / eke in that company, +As cunning he bethought him / how yet he from his foes might flee. + +2050 + +Up from the blood he started / with fierce and sudden bound; +By grace alone of swiftness / he his freedom found. +With speed he passed the portal / where Hagen yet did stand, +And swift his sword he flourished / and smote him with his doughty hand. + +2051 + +To see such sight quoth Hagen: / "To death thou fall'st a prey; +If not the Devil shield thee, / now is thy latest day." +Yet Iring wounded Hagen / e'en through his helmet's crown. +That did the knight with Waske, / a sword that was of far renown. + +2052 + +When thus Sir Hagen / the smart of wound did feel, +Wrathfully he brandished / on high his blade of steel. +Full soon must yield before him / Hawart's daring man, +Adown the steps pursuing / Hagen swiftly after ran. + +2053 + +O'er his head bold Iring / his shield to guard him swung, +And e'en had that same stairway / been full three times as long, +Yet had he found no respite / from warding Hagen's blows. +How plenteously the ruddy / sparks above his helm arose! + +2054 + +Unscathed at last came Iring / where waited him his own. +Soon as was the story / unto Kriemhild known, +How that in fight on Hagen / he had wrought injury, +Therefor the Lady Kriemhild / him gan to thank full graciously. + +2055 + +"Now God requite thee, Iring, / thou valiant knight and good, +For thou my heart hast comforted / and merry made my mood. +Red with blood his armor, / see I yonder Hagen stand." +For joy herself did Kriemhild / take his shield from out his hand. + +2056 + +"Small cause hast thou to thank him," / thus wrathful Hagen spake; +"For gallant knight 'twere fitting / trial once more to make. +If then returned he scatheless, / a valiant man he were. +The wound doth boot thee little / that now from his hand I bear. + +2057 + +"That here from wound upon me / my mail-coat see'st thou red, +Shall bring woful reprisal / on many a warrior's head. +Now is my wrath aroused / in full 'gainst Hawart's thane. +As yet in sooth hath Iring / wrought on me but little bane." + +2058 + +Iring then of Denmark / stood where fanned the wind. +He cooled him in his armor / and did his helm unbind. +Then praised him all the people / and spoke him man of might, +Whereat the margrave's bosom / swelled full high with proud delight. + +2059 + +"Now hearken friends unto me," / Iring once more spake; +"Make me straightway ready, / new trial now to make +If I this knight so haughty / may yet perchance subdue." +New shield they brought, for Hagen / did his erstwhile asunder hew. + +2060 + +Soon stood again the warrior / in armor all bedight. +In hand a spear full massy / took the wrathful knight, +Wherewith on yonder Hagen / he thought to vent his hate. +With grim and fearful visage / on him the vengeful thane did wait. + +2061 + +Yet not abide his coming / might Hagen longer now. +Adown he rushed upon him / with many a thrust and blow, +Down where the stairway ended / for fierce did burn his ire. +Soon the might of Iring / must 'neath his furious onset tire, + +2062 + +Their shields they smote asunder / that the sparks began +To fly in ruddy showers. / Hawart's gallant man +Was by sword of Hagen / wounded all so sore +Through shield and shining cuirass, / that whole he found him never more. + +2063 + +When how great the wound was / Iring fully knew, +Better to guard his helm-band / his shield he higher drew. +The scathe he first received / he deemed sufficient quite, +Yet injury far greater / soon had he from King Gunther's knight. + +2064 + +From where it lay before him / Hagen a spear did lift +And hurled it upon Iring / with aim so sure and swift, +It pierced his head, and firmly / fixed the shaft did stand; +Full grim the end that met him / 'neath the doughty Hagen's hand. + +2065 + +Backward Iring yielded / unto his Danish men. +Ere for the knight his helmet / they undid again, +From his head they drew the spear-point; / to death he was anigh. +Wept thereat his kinsmen, / and sore need had verily. + +2066 + +Came thereto Queen Kriemhild / and o'er the warrior bent, +And for the doughty Iring / gan she there lament. +She wept to see him wounded, / and sorely grieved the queen. +Then spake unto his kinsmen / the warrior full brave and keen. + +2067 + +"I pray thee leave thy moaning, / royal high lady. +What avails thy weeping? / Yea, soon must ended be +My life from wounds outflowing / that here I did receive. +To serve thyself and Etzel / will death not longer grant me leave." + +2068 + +Eke spake he to them of Thuringia / and to them of Danish land: +"Of you shall never any / receive the gift in hand +From your royal mistress / of shining gold full red. +Whoe'er withstandeth Hagen / death calleth down upon his head." + +2069 + +From cheek the color faded, / death's sure token wore +Iring the gallant warrior: / thereat they grieved full sore. +Nor more in life might tarry / Hawart's valiant knight: +Enraged the men of Denmark / again did arm them for the fight. + +2070 + +Irnfried and Hawart / before the hall then sprang +Leading thousand warriors. / Full furious a clang +Of weapons then on all sides / loud and great ye hear. +Against the men of Burgundy / how hurled they many a mighty spear! + +2071 + +Straight the valiant Irnfried / the minstrel rushed upon, +But naught but grievous injury / 'neath his hand he won: +For the noble Fiddler / did the landgrave smite +E'en through the well-wrought helmet; / yea, grim and savage was the + knight. + +2072 + +Sir Irnfried then in answer / the valiant minstrel smote, +That must fly asunder / the rings of his mailed coat +Which showered o'er his cuirass / like sparks of fire red. +Soon must yet the landgrave / fall before the Fiddler dead. + +2073 + +Eke were come together / Hawart and Hagen bold, +And saw he deeds of wonder / who did the sight behold. +Swift flew the sword and fiercely / swung by each hero's hand. +But soon lay Hawart prostrate / before him of Burgundian land. + +2074 + +When Danish men and Thuringians / beheld their masters fall, +Fearful was the turmoil / that rose before the hall +As to the door they struggled, / on dire vengeance bent. +Full many a shield and helmet / was there 'neath sword asunder rent. + +2075 + +"Now backward yield," cried Volker / "and let them pass within; +Thus only are they thwarted / of what they think to win. +When but they pass the portals / are they full quickly slain. +With death shall they the bounty / of their royal mistress gain." + +2076 + +When thus with pride o'erweening / they did entrance find, +The head of many a warrior / was so to earth inclined, +That he must life surrender / 'neath blows that thickly fell. +Well bore him valiant Gernot / and eke Sir Giselher as well. + +2077 + +Four knights beyond a thousand / were come into the house; +The light from sword-blades glinted, / swift swung with mighty souse. +Not one of all their number / soon might ye living see; +Tell might ye mickle wonders / of the men of Burgundy. + +2078 + +Thereafter came a stillness, / and ceased the tumult loud. +The blood in every quarter / through the leak-holes flowed, +And out along the corbels / from men in death laid low. +That had the men of Rhineland / wrought with many a doughty blow. + +2079 + +Then sat again to rest them / they of Burgundian land, +Shield and mighty broadsword / they laid from out the hand. +But yet the valiant Fiddler / stood waiting 'fore the door, +If peradventure any / would seek to offer combat more. + +2080 + +Sorely did King Etzel / and eke his spouse lament, +Maidens and fair ladies / did sorrow sore torment. +Death long since upon them, / I ween, such ending swore. +To fall before the strangers / was doomed full many a warrior more. + + + + +THIRTY-SIXTH ADVENTURE + +How the Queen bade set fire to the Hall + +2081 + +"Now lay ye off the helmets," / the words from Hagen fell: +"I with a boon companion / will be your sentinel. +And seek the men of Etzel / to work us further harm, +For my royal masters / full quickly will I cry alarm." + +2082 + +Then freed his head of armor / many a warrior good. +They sate them on the corses, / that round them in the blood +Of wounds themselves had dealt them, / prostrate weltering lay. +Now to his guests so lofty / scant courtesy did Etzel pay. + +2083 + +Ere yet was come the even, / King Etzel did persuade, +And eke the Lady Kriemhild, / that once more essayed +The Hunnish knights to storm them. / Before them might ye see +Good twenty thousand warriors, / who soon for fight must ready be. + +2084 + +Then with a furious onset / the strangers they attacked. +Dankwart, Hagen's brother, / who naught of courage lacked, +Sprang out 'mid the besiegers / to ward them from the door. +'Twas deemed a deadly peril, / yet scatheless stood he there before. + +2085 + +Fierce the struggle lasted / till darkness brought an end. +Themselves like goodly heroes / the strangers did defend +Against the men of Etzel / all the long summer day. +What host of valiant warriors / before them fell to death a prey! + +2086 + +At turn of sun in summer / that havoc sore was wrought, +When the Lady Kriemhild / revenge so dire sought +Upon her nearest kinsmen / and many a knight beside, +Wherefore with royal Etzel / never more might joy abide. + +2087 + +As day at last was ending / sad they were of heart. +They deemed from life 'twere better / in sudden death to part +Than be thus long tormented / by great o'erhanging dread. +That respite now be granted, / the knights so proud and gallant prayed. + +2088 + +They prayed to lead the monarch / hither to them there. +As heroes blood-bespotted, / and stained from battle-gear, +Forth from the hall emerged / the lofty monarchs three. +They wist not to whom complained / might their full grievous sorrows be. + +2089 + +Etzel and Kriemhild / they soon before them found, +And great was now their company / from all their lands around. +Spake Etzel to the strangers: / "What will ye now of me? +Ye hope for end of conflict, / but hardly may such favor be. + +2090 + +"This so mighty ruin / that ye on me have wrought, +If death thwart not my purpose, / shall profit you in naught. +For child that here ye slew me / and kinsmen dear to me, +Shall peace and reconcilement / from you withheld forever be." + +2091 + +Thereto gave answer Gunther: / "To that drove sorest need. +Lay all my train of squires / before thy warriors dead +Where they for night assembled. / How bore I so great blame? +Of friendly mind I deemed thee, / as trusting in thy faith I came." + +2092 + +Then spake eke of Burgundy / the youthful Giselher: +"Ye knights that still are living / of Etzel, now declare +Whereof ye may reproach me! / How hath you harmed my hand? +For in right friendly manner / came I riding to this land." + +2093 + +Cried they: "Well is thy friendship / in burgh and country known +By sorrow of thy making. / Gladly had we foregone +The pleasure of thy coming / from Worms across the Rhine. +Our country hast thou orphaned, / thou and brother eke of thine." + +2094 + +In angry mood King Gunther / unto them replied: +"An ye this mighty hatred / appeased would lay aside, +Borne 'gainst us knights here homeless, / to both a gain it were +For Etzel's wrath against us / we in sooth no guilt do bear." + +2095 + +The host then to the strangers: / "Your sorrow here and mine +Are things all unequal. / For now must I repine +With honor all bespotted / and 'neath distress of woe. +Of you shall never any / hence from my country living go." + +2096 + +Then did the doughty Gernot / unto King Etzel say: +"God then in mercy move thee / to act in friendly way. +Slay us knights here homeless, / yet grant us down to go +To meet thee in the open: / thine honor biddeth thus to do. + +2097 + +"Whate'er shall be our portion, / let that straightway appear. +Men hast thou yet so many / that, should they banish fear, +Not one of us storm-weary / might keep his life secure. +How long shall we here friendless / this woeful travail yet endure?" + +2098 + +By the warriors of Etzel / their wish nigh granted was, +And leave well nigh was given / that from the hall they pass. +When Kriemhild knew their purpose, / high her anger swelled, +And straightway such a respite / was from the stranger knights withheld. + +2099 + +"But nay, ye Hunnish warriors! / what ye have mind to do, +Therefrom now desist ye, / --such is my counsel true; +Nor let foes so vengeful / pass without the hall, +Else must in death before them / full many of your kinsmen fall. + +2100 + +"If of them lived none other / but Ute's sons alone, +My three noble brothers, / and they the air had won +Where breeze might cool their armor, / to death ye were a prey. +In all this world were never / born more valiant thanes than they." + +2101 + +Then spake the youthful Giselher: / "Full beauteous sister mine, +When to this land thou bad'st me / from far beside the Rhine, +I little deemed such trouble / did here upon me wait. +Whereby have I deserved / from the Huns such mortal hate? + +2102 + +"To thee I ever faithful / was, nor wronged thee e'er. +In such faith confiding / did I hither fare, +That thou to me wert gracious, / O noble sister mine. +Show mercy now unto us, / we must to thee our lives resign." + +2103 + +"No mercy may I show you, / --unmerciful I'll be. +By Hagen, knight of Tronje, / was wrought such woe to me, +That ne'er is reconcilement / the while that I have life. +That must ye all atone for," / --quoth the royal Etzel's wife. + +2104 + +"Will ye but Hagen only / to me as hostage give, +Then will I not deny you / to let you longer live. +Born are ye of one mother / and brothers unto me, +So wish I that compounded / here with these warriors peace may be." + +2105 + +"God in heaven forfend it," / Gernot straightway said; +"E'en though we were a thousand, / lay we all rather dead, +We who are thy kinsmen, / ere that warrior one +Here we gave for hostage. / Never may such thing be done." + +2106 + +"Die must we all," quoth Giselher, / "for such is mortal's end. +Till then despite of any, / our knighthood we'll defend. +Would any test our mettle, / here may he trial make. +For ne'er, when help he needed, / did I a faithful friend forsake." + +2107 + +Then spake the valiant Dankwart, / a knight that knew no fear; +"In sooth stands not unaided / my brother Hagen here. +Who here have peace denied us / may yet have cause to rue. +I would that this ye doubt not, / for verily I tell you true." + +2108 + +The queen to those around her: / "Ye gallant warriors, go +Now nigher to the stairway / and straight avenge my woe. +I'll ever make requital / therefor, as well I may. +For his haughty humor / will I Hagen full repay. + +2109 + +"To pass without the portal / let not one at all, +For at its four corners / I'll bid ignite the hall. +So will I fullest vengeance / take for all my woe." +Straightway the thanes of Etzel / ready stood her hest to do. + +2110 + +Who still without were standing / were driven soon within +By sword and spear upon them, / that made a mighty din. +Yet naught might those good warriors / from their masters take, +By their faith would never / each the other's side forsake. + +2111 + +To burn the hall commanded / Etzel's wife in ire, +And tortured they those warriors / there with flaming fire; +Full soon with wind upon it / the house in flames was seen. +To any folk did never / sadder plight befall, I ween. + +2112 + +Their cries within resounded: / "Alack for sorest need! +How mickle rather lay we / in storm of battle dead. +'Fore God 'tis cause for pity, / for here we all must die! +Now doth the queen upon us / vengeance wreak full grievously." + +2113 + +Among them spake another: / "Our lives we here must end. +What now avails the greeting / the king to us did send? +So sore this heat oppresseth / and parched with thirst my tongue, +My life from very anguish / I ween I must resign ere long." + +2114 + +Then quoth of Tronje Hagen: / "Ye noble knights and good, +Whoe'er by thirst is troubled, / here let him drink the blood. +Than wine more potent is it / where such high heat doth rage, +Nor may we at this season / find us a better beverage." + +2115 + +Where fallen knight was lying, / thither a warrior went. +Aside he laid his helmet, / to gaping wound he bent, +And soon was seen a-quaffing / therefrom the flowing blood. +To him though all unwonted, / yet seemed he there such drinking good. + +2116 + +"Now God reward thee, Hagen," / the weary warrior said, +"That I so well have drunken, / thus by thy teaching led. +Better wine full seldom / hath been poured for me, +And live I yet a season / I'll ever faithful prove to thee." + +2117 + +When there did hear the others / how to him it seemed good, +Many more beheld ye / eke that drank the blood. +Each thereby new vigor / for his body won, +And eke for lover fallen / wept many a buxom dame anon. + +2118 + +The flaming brands fell thickly / upon them in the hall, +With upraised shields they kept them / yet scatheless from their fall, +Though smoke and heat together / wrought them anguish sore. +Beset were heroes never, / I ween, by so great woe before. + +2119 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "Stand nigh unto the wall, +Let not the brands all flaming / upon your helmets fall. +Into the blood beneath you / tread them with your feet. +In sooth in evil fashion / us doth our royal hostess greet." + +2120 + +In trials thus endured / ebbed the night away. +Still without the portal / did the keen Fiddler stay +And Hagen his good fellow, / o'er shield their bodies leant; +They deemed the men of Etzel / still on further mischief bent. + +2121 + +Then was heard the Fiddler: / "Pass we into the hall, +For so the Huns shall fondly / deem we are perished all +Amid the mickle torture / we suffer at their hand. +Natheless shall they behold us / boun for fight before them stand." + +2122 + +Spake then of Burgundy / the young Sir Giselher: +"I ween 'twill soon be dawning, / for blows a cooler air. +To live in fuller joyance / now grant us God in heaven. +To us dire entertainment / my sister Kriemhild here hath given." + +2123 + +Spake again another: / "Lo! how I feel the day. +For that no better fortune / here await us may, +So don, ye knights, your armor, / and guard ye well your life. +Full soon, in sooth, we suffer / again at hands of Etzel's wife." + +2124 + +Fondly Etzel fancied / the strangers all were dead, +From sore stress of battle / and from the fire dread; +Yet within were living / six hundred men so brave, +That never thanes more worthy / a monarch for liegemen might have. + +2125 + +The watchers set to watch them / soon full well had seen +How still lived the strangers, / spite what wrought had been +Of harm and grievous evil, / on the monarchs and their band. +Within the hall they saw them / still unscathed and dauntless stand. + +2126 + +Told 'twas then to Kriemhild / how they from harm were free. +Whereat the royal lady / quoth, such thing ne'er might be +That any still were living / from that fire dread. +"Nay, believe I rather / that within they all lie dead." + +2127 + +Gladly yet the strangers / would a truce compound, +Might any grace to offer / amid their foes be found. +But such appeared not any / in them of Hunnish land. +Well to avenge their dying / prepared they then with willing hand. + +2128 + +About the dawn of morning / greeted they were again +With a vicious onslaught, / that paid full many a thane. +There was flung upon them / many a mighty spear, +While gallantly did guard them / the lofty thanes that knew not fear. + +2129 + +The warriors of Etzel / were all of eager mood, +And Kriemhild's promised bounty / win for himself each would; +To do the king's high bidding / did likewise urge their mind. +'Twas cause full soon that many / were doomed swift death in fight to + find. + +2130 + +Of store of bounty promised / might wonders great be told, +She bade on shields to carry / forth the ruddy gold, +And gave to him that wished it / or would but take her store; +In sooth a greater hire / ne'er tempted 'gainst the foe before. + +2131 + +A mickle host of warriors / went forth in battle-gear. +Then quoth the valiant Volker: / "Still may ye find us here. +Ne'er saw I move to battle / warriors more fain, +That to work us evil / the bounty of the king have ta'en." + +2132 + +Then cried among them many: / "Hither, ye knights, more nigh! +Since all at last must perish, / 'twere better instantly; +And here no warrior falleth / but who fore-doomed hath been." +With well-flung spears all bristling / full quickly then their shields + were seen. + +2133 + +What need of further story? / Twelve hundred stalwart men, +Repulsed in onset gory, / still returned again; +But dealing wounds around them / the strangers cooled their mood, +And there stood all unvanquished. / Flowing might ye see the blood + +2134 + +From deep wounds and mortal, / whereof were many slain. +For friends in battle fallen / heard ye loud complain; +Slain were all those warriors / that served the mighty king, +Whereat from loving kinsmen / arose a mickle sorrowing. + + + + +THIRTY-SEVENTH ADVENTURE + +How the Margrave Ruediger was Slain + +2135 + +At morning light the strangers / had wrought high deed of fame, +When the spouse of Gotelinde / unto the courtyard came. +To behold on both sides / such woe befallen there, +Might not refrain from weeping / sorely the faithful Ruediger. + +2136 + +"O woe is me!" exclaimed he, / "that ever I was born. +Alack that this great sorrow / no hand from us may turn! +Though I be ne'er so willing, / the king no peace will know, +For he beholds his sorrow / ever great and greater grow." + +2137 + +Then did the kindly Ruediger / unto Dietrich send, +If to the lofty monarchs / they yet might truce extend. +The knight of Bern gave message: / "How might such thing be? +For ne'er the royal Etzel / granteth to end it peacefully." + +2138 + +When a Hunnish warrior / saw standing Ruediger +As from eyes sore weeping / fell full many a tear, +To his royal mistress spake he: / "Behold how stands he there +With whom here by Etzel / none other may in might compare, + +2139 + +"And who commandeth service / of lands and people all. +How many lordly castles / Ruediger his own doth call, +That unto him hath given / the bounty of the king! +Not yet in valorous conflict / saw'st thou here his sword to swing. + +2140 + +"Methinks, but little recks he, / what may here betide, +Since now in fullest measure / his heart is satisfied. +'Tis told he is, surpassing / all men, forsooth, so keen, +But in this time of trials / his valor ill-displayed hath been." + +2141 + +Stood there full of sorrow / the brave and faithful man, +Yet whom he thus heard speaking / he cast his eyes upon. +Thought he: "Thou mak'st atonement, / who deem'st my mettle cold. +Thy thought here all too loudly / hast thou unto the people told." + +2142 + +His fist thereat he doubled / and upon him ran, +And smote with blow so mighty / there King Etzel's man +That prone before him straightway / fell that mocker dead. +So came but greater sorrow / on the royal Etzel's head. + +2143 + +"Hence thou basest caitiff," / cried then Ruediger; +"Here of pain and sorrow / enough I have to bear. +Wherefore wilt thou taunt me / that I the combat shun? +In sooth had I the utmost / of harm upon the strangers done, + +2144 + +"For that good reason have I / to bear them hate indeed, +But that myself the warriors / as friends did hither lead. +Yea, was I their safe escort / into my master's land; +So may I, man most wretched, / ne'er raise against them hostile hand." + +2145 + +Then spake the lofty Etzel / unto the margrave: +"What aid, O noble Ruediger, / here at thy hands we have! +Our country hath so many / already doomed to die, +We need not any other: / now hast thou wrought full wrongfully." + +2146 + +Returned the knight so noble: / "My heart he sore hath grieved, +And reproached me for high honors / at thy hand received +And eke for gifts unto me / by thee so freely made; +Dearly for his slander / hath the base traducer paid." + +2147 + +When had the queen come hither / and had likewise seen +How on the Hunnish warrior / his wrath had vented been, +Incontinent she mourned it, / and tears bedimmed her sight. +Spake she unto Ruediger: / "How dost thou now our love requite, + +2148 + +"That for me and thy master / thou bring'st increase of woe? +Now hast thou, noble Ruediger, / ever told us so, +How that thou life and honor / for our sake wouldst dare. +Eke heard I thanes full many / proclaim thee knight beyond compare. + +2149 + +"Of the oath I now remind thee / that thou to me didst swear, +When counsel first thou gavest / to Etzel's land to fare, +That thou wouldst truly serve me / till one of us were dead: +Of that I wretched woman / never stood so sore in need." + +2150 + +"Nor do I, royal mistress, / deny that so I sware +That I for thy well-being / would life and honor dare: +But eke my soul to forfeit, / --that sware I not indeed. +'Tis I thy royal brothers / hither to this land did lead." + +2151 + +Quoth she: "Bethink thee, Ruediger, / of thy fidelity +And oath once firmly plighted / that aught of harm to me +Should ever be avenged, / and righted every ill." +Replied thereto the margrave: / "Ne'er have I failed to work thy will." + +2152 + +Etzel the mighty monarch / to implore him then began, +And king and queen together / down knelt before their man, +Whereat the good margrave / was seen in sorest plight, +And gan to mourn his station / in piteous words the faithful knight. + +2153 + +"O woe is me most wretched," / he sorrow-stricken cried, +"That forced I am my honor / thus to set aside, +And bonds of faith and friendship / God hath imposed on me. +O Thou that rul'st in heaven! / come death, I cannot yet be free. + +2154 + +"Whate'er it be my effort / to do or leave undone, +I break both faith and honor / in doing either one; +But leave I both, all people / will cry me worthy scorn. +May He look down in mercy / who bade me wretched man be born!" + +2155 + +With many a prayer besought him / the king and eke his spouse, +Wherefore was many a warrior / soon doomed his life to lose +At hand of noble Ruediger, / when eke did die the thane. +Now hear ye how he bore him, / though filled his heart with sorest pain. + +2156 + +He knew how scathe did wait him / and boundless sorrowing, +And gladly had refused / to obey the king +And eke his royal mistress. / Full sorely did he fear, +That if one stranger slew he, / the scorn of all the world he'd bear. + +2157 + +Then spake unto the monarch / the full gallant thane: +"O royal sire, whatever / thou gavest, take again, +The land and every castle, / that naught remain to me. +On foot a lonely pilgrim / I'll wander to a far country." + +2158 + +Thereto replied King Etzel: / "Who then gave help to me? +My land and lordly castles / give I all to thee, +If on my foes, O Ruediger, / revenge thou wilt provide. +A mighty monarch seated, / shalt thou be by Etzel's side." + +2159 + +Again gave answer Ruediger: / "How may that ever be? +At my own home shared they / my hospitality. +Meat and drink I offered / to them in friendly way, +And gave them of my bounty: / how shall I seek them here to slay ? + +2160 + +"The folk belike will fancy / that I a coward be. +Ne'er hath faithful service / been refused by me +Unto the noble princes / and their warriors too; +That e'er I gained their friendship, / now 'tis cause for me to rue. + +2161 + +"For spouse unto Sir Giselher / gave I a daughter mine, +Nor into fairer keeping / might I her resign, +Where truth were sought and honor / and gentle courtesy: +Ne'er saw I thane so youthful / virtuous in mind as he." + +2162 + +Again gave answer Kriemhild: / "O noble Ruediger, +To me and royal Etzel / in mercy now give ear +For sorrows that o'erwhelm us. / Bethink thee, I implore, +That monarch never any / harbored so evil guests before." + +2163 + +Spake in turn the margrave / unto the monarch's wife: +"Ruediger requital / must make to-day with life +For that thou and my master / did me so true befriend. +Therefore must I perish; / now must my service find an end. + +2164 + +"E'en this day, well know I, / my castles and my land +Must surely lose their master / beneath a stranger's hand. +To thee my wife and children / commend I for thy care, +And with all the lorn ones / that wait by Bechelaren's towers fair." + +2165 + +"Now God reward thee, Ruediger," / thereat King Etzel quoth. +He and the queen together, / right joyful were they both. +"To us shall all thy people / full commended be; +Eke trow I by my fortune / no harm shall here befall to thee." + +2166 + +For their sake he ventured / soul and life to lose. +Thereat fell sore to weeping / the royal Etzel's spouse. +He spake: "I must unto you / my plighted word fulfil. +Alack! beloved strangers, / whom to assail forbids my will." + +2167 + +From the king there parting / ye saw him, sad of mood, +And passed unto his warriors / who at small distance stood. +"Don straightway now your armor, / my warriors all," quoth he. +"Alas! must I to battle / with the valiant knights of Burgundy." + +2168 + +Then straightway for their armor / did the warriors call. +A shining helm for this one, / for that a shield full tall +Soon did the nimble squires / before them ready hold. +Anon came saddest tidings / unto the stranger warriors bold. + +2169 + +With Ruediger there saw ye / five hundred men arrayed, +And noble thanes a dozen / that came unto his aid, +Thinking in storm of battle / to win them honor high. +In sooth but little knew they / how death awaited them so nigh. + +2170 + +With helm on head advancing / saw ye Sir Ruediger. +Swords that cut full keenly / the margrave's men did bear, +And eke in hand each carried / a broad shield shining bright. +Boundless was the Fiddler's / sorrow to behold the sight. + +2171 + +When saw the youthful Giselher / his bride's sire go +Thus with fastened helmet, / how might he ever know +What he therewith did purpose / if 'twere not only good? +Thereat the noble monarchs / right joyous might ye see of mood. + +2172 + +"I joy for friends so faithful," / spake Giselher the thane, +"As on our journey hither / we for ourselves did gain. +Full great shall be our vantage / that I found spouse so dear, +And high my heart rejoiceth / that plighted thus to wed we were." + +2173 + +"Small cause I see for comfort," / thereto the minstrel spake. +"When saw ye thanes so many / come a truce to make +With helmet firmly fastened / and bearing sword in hand? +By scathe to us will Ruediger / service do for tower and land." + +2174 + +The while that thus the Fiddler / had spoken to the end, +His way the noble Ruediger / unto the hall did wend. +His trusty shield he rested / on the ground before his feet, +Yet might he never offer / his friends in kindly way to greet. + +2175 + +Loudly the noble margrave / cried into the hall: +"Now guard you well, ye valiant / Nibelungen all. +From me ye should have profit: / now have ye harm from me. +But late we plighted friendship: / broken now these vows must be." + +2176 + +Then quailed to hear such tidings / those knights in sore distress, +For none there was among them / but did joy the less +That he would battle with them / for whom great love they bore. +At hand of foes already / had they suffered travail sore. + +2177 + +"Now God in heaven forfend it," / there King Gunther cried, +"That from mercy to us / thou so wilt turn aside, +And the faithful friendship / whereof hope had we. +I trow in sooth that never / may such thing be done by thee." + +2178 + +"Desist therefrom I may not," / the keen knight made reply, +"But now must battle with you, / for vow thereto gave I. +"Now guard you, gallant warriors, / as fear ye life to lose: +From plighted vow release me / will nevermore King Etzel's spouse." + +2179 + +"Too late thou turnst against us," / spake King Gunther there. +"Now might God requite thee, / O noble Ruediger, +For the faith and friendship / thou didst on us bestow, +If thou a heart more kindly / even to the end wouldst show. + +2180 + +"We'd ever make requital / for all that thou didst give,-- +I and all my kinsmen, / wouldst thou but let us live,-- +For thy gifts full stately, / as faithfully thou here +To Etzel's land didst lead us: / know that, O noble Ruediger." + +2181 + +"To me what pleasure were it," / Ruediger did say, +"With full hand of my treasure / unto you to weigh +And with a mind right willing / as was my hope to do! +Thus might no man reproach me / with lack of courtesy to you." + +2182 + +"Turn yet, O noble Ruediger." / Gernot spake again, +"For in so gracious manner / did never entertain +Any host the stranger, / as we were served by thee; +And live we yet a little, / shall thou well requited be." + +2183 + +"O would to God, full noble / Gernot," spake Ruediger, +"That ye were at Rhine river / and that dead I were +With somewhat saved of honor, / since I must be your foe! +Upon good knights was never / wrought by friends more bitter woe." + +2184 + +"Now God requite thee, Ruediger," / Gernot gave reply, +"For gifts so fair bestowed. / I rue to see thee die, +For that in thee shall perish / knight of so gentle mind. +Here thy sword I carry, / that gav'st thou me in friendship kind. + +2185 + +"It never yet hath failed me / in this our sorest need, +And 'neath its cutting edges / many a knight lies dead. +'Tis strong and bright of lustre, / cunning wrought and well. +I ween, whate'er was given / by knight it doth in worth excel. + +2186 + +"An wilt thou not give over / upon us here to fall, +And if one friend thou slayest / here yet within this hall, +With this same sword thou gavest, / I'll take from thee thy life. +I sorrow for thee Ruediger, / and eke thy fair and stately wife." + +2187 + +"Would God but give, Sir Gernot, / that such thing might be, +That thou thy will completely / here fulfilled mightst see, +And of thy friends not any / here his life should lose! +Yea, shalt thou live to comfort / both my daughter and my spouse." + +2188 + +Then out spake of Burgundy / the son of Ute fair: +"How dost thou so, Sir Ruediger? / All that with me are +To thee are well disposed. / Thou dost an evil thing, +And wilt thine own fair daughter / to widowhood too early bring. + +2189 + +"If thou with armed warriors / wilt thus assail me here, +In what unfriendly manner / thou makest to appear +How that in thee I trusted / beyond all men beside, +When thy fairest daughter / erstwhile I won to be my bride." + +2190 + +"Thy good faith remember, / O Prince of virtue rare, +If God from hence do bring thee," / --so spake Ruediger: +"Forsake thou not the maiden / when bereft of me, +But rather grant thy goodness / be dealt to her more graciously." + +2191 + +"That would I do full fairly," / spake Giselher again. +"But if my lofty kinsmen, / who yet do here remain, +Beneath thy hand shall perish, / severed then must be +The friendship true I cherish / eke for thy daughter and for thee." + +2192 + +"Then God to us give mercy," / the knight full valiant spake. +Their shields in hand then took they, / as who perforce would make +Their passage to the strangers / into Kriemhild's hall. +Adown the stair full loudly / did Hagen, knight of Tronje, call: + +2193 + +"Tarry yet a little, / O noble Ruediger, +For further would we parley," / --thus might ye Hagen hear-- +"I and my royal masters, / as presseth sorest need. +What might it boot to Etzel / that we strangers all lay dead. + +2194 + +"Great is here my trouble," / Hagen did declare: +"The shield that Lady Gotelinde / gave to me to bear +Hath now been hewn asunder / by Hun-men in my hand. +With friendly thought I bore it / hither into Etzel's land. + +2195 + +"Would that God in heaven / might grant in kindliness, +That I a shield so trusty / did for my own possess +As in thy hand thou bearest, / O noble Ruediger! +In battle-storm then need I / never hauberk more to wear." + +2196 + +"Full glad I'd prove my friendship / to thee with mine own shield, +Dared I the same to offer / before Lady Kriemhild. +But take it, natheless, Hagen, / and bear it in thy hand. +Would that thou mightst take it / again unto Burgundian land!" + +2197 + +When with mind so willing / he offered him his shield, +Saw ye how eyes full many / with scalding tears were filled; +For the last gift was it / that was offered e'er +Unto any warrior / by Bechelaren's margrave, Ruediger. + +2198 + +How grim soe'er was Hagen / and stern soe'er of mind, +That gift to pity moved him / that there the chieftain kind, +So near his latest moment, / did on him bestow. +From eyes of many another / began likewise the tears to flow. + +2199 + +"Now God in heaven requite thee, / O noble Ruediger! +Like unto thee none other / warrior was there e'er, +Unto knights all friendless / so bounteously to give. +God grant in his mercy / thy virtue evermore to live. + +2200 + +"Woe's me to hear such tiding," / Hagen did declare. +"Such load of grief abiding / already do we bear, +If we with friends must struggle, / to God our plaint must be." +Thereto replied the margrave: / "'Tis cause of sorrow sore to me." + +2201 + +"To pay thee for thy favor, / O noble Ruediger, +Howe'er these lofty warriors / themselves against thee bear, +Yet never thee in combat / here shall touch my hand, +E'en though complete thou slayest / them from out Burgundian land." + +2202 + +Thereat the lofty Ruediger / 'fore him did courteous bend. +On all sides was lamenting / that no man might end +These so great heart-sorrows / that sorely they must bear. +The father of all virtue / fell with noble Ruediger. + +2203 + +Then eke the minstrel Volker / from hall down glancing said: +"Since Hagen thus, my comrade, / peace with thee hath made, +Lasting truce thou likewise / receivest from my hand. +Well hast thou deserved it / as fared we hither to this land. + +2204 + +"Thou, O noble margrave, / my messenger shalt be. +These arm-bands ruddy golden / thy lady gave to me, +That here at this high festival / I the same should wear. +Now mayst thyself behold them / and of my faith a witness bear." + +2205 + +"Would God but grant," / spake Ruediger, "who ruleth high in heaven, +That to thee by my lady / might further gift be given! +I'll gladly tell thy tidings / to spouse full dear to me, +An I but live to see her: / from doubt thereof thou mayst be free." + +2206 + +When thus his word was given, / his shield raised Ruediger. +Nigh to madness driven / bode he no longer there, +But ran upon the strangers / like to a valiant knight. +Many a blow full rapid / smote the margrave in his might. + +2207 + +Volker and Hagen / made way before the thane, +As before had promised / to him the warriors twain. +Yet found he by the portal / so many a valiant man +That Ruediger the combat / with mickle boding sore began. + +2208 + +Gunther and Gernot / with murderous intent +Let him pass the portal, / as knights on victory bent. +Backward yielded Giselher, / with sorrow all undone; +He hoped to live yet longer, / and therefore Ruediger would shun. + +2209 + +Straight upon their enemies / the margrave's warriors sprung, +And following their master / was seen a valiant throng. +Swords with cutting edges / did they in strong arm wield, +'Neath which full many a helmet / was cleft, and many a fair wrought + shield. + +2210 + +The weary strangers likewise / smote many a whirring slash, +Wherefrom the men of Bechelaren / felt deep and long the gash +Through the shining ring-mail / e'en to their life's core. +In storm of battle wrought they / glorious deeds a many more. + +2211 + +All his trusty followers / now eke had gained the hall, +On whom Volker and Hagen / did soon in fury fall, +And mercy unto no man / save Ruediger they showed. +The blood adown through helmets, / where smote their swords, full + plenteous flowed. + +2212 + +How right furiously / were swords 'gainst armor driven! +On shields the well-wrought mountings / from their wards were riven, +And fell their jewelled facings / all scattered in the blood. +Ne'er again might warriors / show in fight so grim a mood. + +2213 + +The lord of Bechelaren / through foemen cut his way, +As doth each doughty warrior / in fight his might display. +On that day did Ruediger / show full plain that he +A hero was undaunted, / full bold and eke full praiseworthy. + +2214 + +Stood there two knights right gallant, / Gunther and Gernot, +And in the storm of battle / to death full many smote. +Eke Giselher and Dankwart, / never aught recked they +How many a lusty fighter / saw 'neath their hand his latest day. + +2215 + +Full well did show him Ruediger / a knight of mettle true, +Doughty in goodly armor. / What warriors there he slew! +Beheld it a Burgundian, / and cause for wrath was there. +Not longer now was distant / the death of noble Ruediger. + +2216 + +Gernot, knight full doughty, / addressed the margrave then, +Thus speaking to the hero: / "Wilt thou of all my men +Living leave not any, / O noble Ruediger? +That gives me grief unmeasured; / the sight I may not longer bear. + +2217 + +"Now must thy gift unto me / prove thy sorest bane, +Since of my friends so many / thou from me hast ta'en. +Now hither turn to front me, / thou bold and noble knight: +As far as might may bear me / I trust to pay thy gift aright." + +2218 + +Ere that full the margrave / might make his way to him, +Must rings of glancing mail-coats / with flowing blood grow dim. +Then sprang upon each other / those knights on honor bent, +And each from wounds deep cutting / sought to keep him all unshent. + +2219 + +Their swords cut so keenly / that might withstand them naught. +With mighty arm Sir Ruediger / Gernot then smote +Through the flint-hard helmet, / that downward flowed the blood. +Therefor repaid him quickly / the knight of keen and valiant mood. + +2220 + +The gift he had of Ruediger / high in hand he swung, +And though to death was wounded / he smote with blow so strong +That the good shield was cloven / and welded helmet through. +The spouse of fair Gotelinde, / then his latest breath he drew. + +2221 + +In sooth so sad requital / found rich bounty ne'er. +Slain fell they both together, / Gernot and Ruediger, +Alike in storm of battle, / each by the other's hand. +Sore was the wrath of Hagen / when he the harm did understand. + +2222 + +Cried there the lord of Tronje: / "Great is here our loss. +In death of these two heroes / such scathe befalleth us, +Wherefor land and people / shall repine for aye. +The warriors of Ruediger / must now to us the forfeit pay." + +2223 + +"Alack for this my brother, / snatched by death this day! +What host of woes unbidden / encompass me alway! +Eke must I moan it ever / that noble Ruediger fell. +Great is the scathe to both sides / and great the sorrowing as well." + +2224 + +When then beheld Sir Giselher / his lover's sire dead, +Must all that with him followed / suffer direst need. +There Death was busy seeking / to gather in his train, +And of the men of Bechelaren / came forth not one alive again. + +2225 + +Gunther and Giselher / and with them Hagen too, +Dankwart and Volker, / doughty thanes and true, +Went where found they lying / the two warriors slain, +Nor at the sight the heroes / might their grief and tears restrain. + +2226 + +"Death robbeth us right sorely," / spake young Sir Giselher: +"Yet now give o'er your weeping / and let us seek the air, +That the ringed mail grow cooler / on us storm-weary men. +God in sooth will grant us / not longer here to live, I ween." + +2227 + +Here sitting, and there leaning / was seen full many a thane, +Resting once more from combat, / the while that all lay slain +The followers of Ruediger. / Hushed was the battle's din. +At length grew angry Etzel, / that stillness was so long within. + +2228 + +"Alack for such a service!" / spake the monarch's wife; +"For never 'tis so faithful / that our foes with life +Must to us make payment / at Ruediger's hand. +He thinks in sooth to lead them / again unto Burgundian land. + +2229 + +"What boots it, royal Etzel, / that we did ever share +With him what he desired? / The knight doth evil there. +He that should avenge us, / the same a truce doth make." +Thereto the stately warrior / Volker in answer spake: + +2230 + +"Alas 'tis no such case here, / O high and royal dame. +Dared I but give the lie to / one of thy lofty name, +Thou hast in fiendish manner / Ruediger belied. +He and all his warriors / have laid all thoughts of truce aside. + +2231 + +"With so good heart obeyed he / his royal master's will +That he and all his followers / here in death lie still. +Look now about thee, Kriemhild, / who may thy hests attend. +Ruediger the hero / hath served thee faithful to the end. + +2232 + +"Wilt thou my words believe not, / to thee shall clear be shown." +To cause her heart a sorrow, / there the thing was done. +Wound-gashed they bore the hero / where him the king might see. +Unto the thanes of Etzel / ne'er might so great sorrow be. + +2233 + +When did they the margrave / a corse on bier behold, +By chronicler might never / written be nor told +All the wild lamenting / of women and of men, +As with grief all stricken / out-poured they their hearts' sorrow then. + +2234 + +Royal Etzel's sorrow / there did know no bound. +Like to the voice of lion / echoing rang the sound +Of the king's loud weeping, / wherein the queen had share. +Unmeasured they lamented / the death of noble Ruediger. + + + + +THIRTY-EIGHTH ADVENTURE + +How all Sir Dietrich's Knights were Slain + +2235 + +On all sides so great sorrow / heard ye there around, +That palace and high tower / did from the wail resound. +Of Bern a man of Dietrich / eke the same did hear, +And speedily he hastened / the tidings to his lord to bear. + +2236 + +Spake he unto his master: / "Sir Dietrich give me ear. +What yet hath been my fortune, / never did I hear +Lamenting past all measure, / as at this hour hath been. +Scathe unto King Etzel / himself hath happened, I ween. + +2237 + +"Else how might they ever / all show such dire need? +The king himself or Kriemhild, / one of them lieth dead, +By the doughty strangers / for sake of vengeance slain. +Unmeasured is the weeping / of full many a stately thane." + +2238 + +Then spake of Bern Sir Dietrich: / "Ye men to me full dear, +Now haste ye not unduly. / The deeds performed here +By the stranger warriors / show sore necessity. +That peace with them I blighted, / let it now their profit be." + +2239 + +Then spake the valiant Wolfhart: / "Thither will I run +To make question of it / what they now have done, +And straight will tidings bring thee, / master full dear to me, +When yonder I inform me, / whence may so great lamenting be." + +2240 + +Answer gave Sir Dietrich: / "Fear they hostility, +The while uncivil questioning / of their deed there be, +Lightly are stirred to anger / good warriors o'er the thing. +Yea, 'tis my pleasure, Wolfhart, / thou sparest them all such + questioning. + +2241 + +Helfrich he then commanded / thither with speed to go +That from men of Etzel / he might truly know, +Or from the strangers straightway, / what thing there had been. +As that, so sore lamenting / of people ne'er before was seen. + +2242 + +Questioned then the messenger: / "What hath here been wrought?" +Answered one among them: / "Complete is come to naught +What of joy we cherished / here in Hunnish land. +Slain here lieth Ruediger, / fallen 'neath Burgundian hand. + +2243 + +"Of them that entered with him / not one doth longer live." +Naught might ever happen / Helfrich more to grieve, +Nor ever told he tidings / so ruefully before. +Weeping sore the message / unto Dietrich then he bore. + +2244 + +"What the news thou bringst us?" / Dietrich spake once more; +"Yet, O doughty Helfrich, / wherefore dost weep so sore?" +Answered the noble warrior: / "With right may I complain: +Yonder faithful Ruediger / lieth by the Burgundians slain." + +2245 + +The lord of Bern gave answer: / "God let not such thing be! +That were a mighty vengeance, / and eke the Devil's glee. +Whereby had ever Ruediger / from them deserved such ill? +Well know I to the strangers / was ever well disposed his will." + +2246 + +Thereto gave answer Wolfhart: / "In sooth have they this done, +Therefor their lives shall forfeit / surely, every one. +And make we not requital, / our shame for aye it were; +Full manifold our service / from hand of noble Ruediger." + +2247 + +Then bade the lord of Amelungen / the case more full to learn. +He sat within a casement / and did full sadly mourn. +He prayed then that Hildebrand / unto the strangers go, +That he from their own telling / of the case complete might know. + +2248 + +The warrior keen in battle, / Master Hildebrand, +Neither shield nor weapon / bore he in his hand, +But would in chivalrous manner / unto the strangers go. +His sister's son reviled him / that he would venture thus to do. + +2249 + +Spake in anger Wolfhart: / "Goest thou all weaponless, +Must I of such action / free my thought confess: +Thou shalt in shameful fashion / hither come again; +Goest thou armed thither, / will all from harm to thee refrain." + +2250 + +So armed himself the old man / at counsel of the young. +Ere he was ware of it, / into their armor sprung +All of Dietrich's warriors / and stood with sword in hand. +Grieved he was, and gladly / had turned them Master Hildebrand. + +2251 + +He asked them whither would they. / "Thee company we'll bear, +So may, perchance, less willing / Hagen of Tronje dare, +As so oft his custom, / to give thee mocking word." +The thane his leave did grant them / at last when he their speech had + heard. + +2252 + +Keen Volker saw approaching, / in armor all arrayed, +Of Bern the gallant warriors / that Dietrich's word obeyed, +With sword at girdle hanging / and bearing shield in hand. +Straight he told the tidings / to his masters of Burgundian land. + +2253 + +Spake the doughty Fiddler: / "Yonder see I come near +The warriors of Dietrich / all clad in battle gear +And decked their heads with helmets, / as if our harm they mean. +For us knights here homeless / approacheth evil end, I ween." + +2254 + +Meanwhile was come anigh them / Master Hildebrand. +Before his foot he rested / the shield he bore in hand, +And soon began to question / the men of Gunther there: +"Alack, ye gallant warriors, / what harm hath wrought you Ruediger? + +2255 + +"Me did my master Dietrich / hither to you command: +If now the noble margrave / hath fallen 'neath the hand +Of any knight among you, / as word to us is borne, +Such a mighty sorrow / might we never cease to mourn." + +2256 + +Then spake of Tronje Hagen: / "True is the tale ye hear. +Though glad I were, if to you / had lied the messenger, +And if the faithful Ruediger / still his life might keep, +For whom both man and woman / must ever now in sorrow weep!" + +2257 + +When they for sooth the passing / of the hero knew, +Those gallant knights bemoaned him / like faithful friends and true; +On Dietrich's lusty warriors / saw ye fall the tear +Adown the bearded visage, / for sad of heart in truth they were. + +2258 + +Of Bern then a chieftain, / Siegstab, further cried: +"Of all the mickle comfort / now an end is made, +That Ruediger erst prepared us / after our days of pain. +The joy of exiled people / here lieth by you warriors slain." + +2259 + +Then spake of Amelungen / the thane Wolfwein: +"If that this day beheld I / dead e'en sire of mine, +No more might be my sorrow / than for this hero's life. +Alack! who bringeth comfort / now to the noble margrave's wife?" + +2260 + +Spake eke in angry humor / Wolfhart a stalwart thane: +"Who now shall lead our army / on the far campaign, +As full oft the margrave / of old hath led our host? +Alack! O noble Ruediger, / that in such manner thee we've lost!" + +2261 + +Wolfbrand and Helfrich / and Helmnot with warriors all +Mourned there together / that he in death must fall. +For sobbing might not further / question Hildebrand. +He spake: "Now do, ye warriors, / according to my lord's command. + +2262 + +"Yield unto us Ruediger's / corse from out the hall, +In whose death to sorrow / hath passed our pleasure all; +And let us do him service / for friendship true of yore +That e'er for us he cherished / and eke for many a stranger more. + +2263 + +"We too from home are exiles / like unto Ruediger. +Why keep ye us here waiting? / Him grant us hence to bear, +That e'en though death hath reft him / our service he receive, +Though fairer had we paid it / the while the hero yet did live." + +2264 + +Thereto spake King Gunther: / "No service equal may +That which, when death hath reft him, / to friend a friend doth pay. +Him deem I friend right faithful, / whoe'er the same may do. +Well make ye here requital / for many a service unto you." + +2265 + +"How long shall we beseech you," / spake Wolfhart the thane; +"Since he that best consoled us / by you now lieth slain, +And we, alas, no longer / his living aid may have, +Grant us hence to bear him / and lay the hero in his grave." + +2266 + +Thereto answered Volker: / "Thy prayer shall all deny. +From out the hall thou take him, / where doth the hero lie +'Neath deep wounds and mortal / in blood now smitten down. +So may by thee best service / here to Ruediger be shown." + +2267 + +Answered Wolfhart boldly: / "Sir Fiddleman, God wot +Thou shalt forbear to stir us, / for woe on us thou'st wrought. +Durst I despite my master, / uncertain were thy life; +Yet must we here keep silence, / for he did bid us shun the strife." + +2268 + +Then spake again the Fiddler: / "'Tis all too much of fear, +For that a thing's forbidden, / meekly to forbear. +Scarce may I deem it valor / worthy good knight to tell." +What said his faithful comrade, / did please the doughty Hagen well. + +2269 + +"For proof be not o'er-eager," / Wolfhart quick replied, +"Else so I'll tune thy fiddle / that when again ye ride +Afar unto Rhine river, / sad tale thou tellest there. +Thy haughty words no longer / may I now with honor bear." + +2270 + +Spake once more the Fiddler: / "If e'er the harmony +Of my fiddle-strings thou breakest, / thy helmet's sheen shall be +Made full dim of lustre / by stroke of this my hand, +Howe'er fall out my journey / homeward to Burgundian land." + +2271 + +Then would he rush upon him / but that him did restrain +Hildebrand his uncle / who seized him amain. +"I ween thou would'st be witless, / by youthful rage misled. +My master's favor had'st thou / evermore thus forfeited." + +2272 + +"Let loose the lion, Master, / that doth rage so sore. +If but my sword may reach him," / spake Volker further more, +"Though he the world entire / by his own might had slain, +I'll smite him that an answer / never may he chant again." + +2273 + +Thereat with anger straightway / the men of Bern were filled. +Wolfhart, thane right valiant, / grasped in haste his shield, +And like to a wild lion / out before them sped. +By friends a goodly number / full quickly was he followed. + +2274 + +Though by the hall went striding / ne'er so swift the thane, +O'ertook him Master Hildebrand / ere he the steps might gain, +For nowise would he let him / be foremost in the fray. +In the stranger warriors / worthy foemen soon found they. + +2275 + +Straight saw ye upon Hagen / rush Master Hildebrand, +And sword ye heard give music / in each foeman's hand. +Sore they were enraged, / as ye soon were ware, +For from their swinging broadswords / whirred the ruddy sparks in air. + +2276 + +Yet soon the twain were parted / in the raging fight: +The men of Bern so turned it / by their dauntless might. +Ere long then was Hildebrand / from Hagen turned away, +While that the doughty Wolfhart / the valiant Volker sought to slay. + +2277 + +Upon the helm the Fiddler / he smote with blow so fierce +That the sword's keen edges / unto the frame did pierce. +With mighty stroke repaid him / the valiant minstrel too, +And so belabored Wolfhart / that thick the sparks around him flew. + +2278 + +Hewing they made the fire / from mail-rings scintillate, +For each unto the other / bore a deadly hate. +Of Bern the thane Wolfwein / at length did part the two,-- +Which thing might none other / than man of mickle prowess do. + +2279 + +Gunther, knight full gallant, / received with ready hand +There the stately warriors / of Amelungen land. +Eke did young Giselher / of many a helmet bright, +With blood all red and reeking, / cause to grow full dim the light. + +2280 + +Dankwart, Hagen's brother, / was a warrior grim. +What erstwhile in combat / had been wrought by him +Against the men of Etzel / seemed now as toying vain, +As fought with flaming ire / the son of valiant Aldrian. + +2281 + +Ritschart and Gerbart, / Helfrich and Wichart +Had oft in storm of battle / with valor borne their part, +As now 'fore men of Gunther / they did clear display. +Likewise saw ye Wolfbrand / glorious amid the fray. + +2282 + +There old Master Hildebrand / fought as he were wode. +Many a doughty warrior / was stricken in the blood +By the sword that swinging / in Wolfhart's hand was seen. +Thus took dire vengeance / for Ruediger those knights full keen. + +2283 + +Havoc wrought Sir Siegstab / there with might and main. +Ho! in the hurly-burly / what helms he cleft in twain +Upon the crowns of foemen, / Dietrich's sister's son! +Ne'er in storm of battle / had he more feats of valor done. + +2284 + +When the doughty Volker / there aright had seen +How many a bloody rivulet / was hewn by Siegstab keen +From out the well-wrought mail-rings, / the hero's ire arose. +Quick he sprang toward him, / Siegstab then his life must lose. + +2285 + +Ere long time was over, / 'neath the Fiddler's hand, +Who of his art did give him / such share to understand +That beneath his broadsword / smitten to death he lay. +Old Hildebrand avenged him / as bade his mighty arm alway. + +2286 + +"Alack that knight so loved," / spake Master Hildebrand, +"Here should thus lie fallen / 'neath Volker's hand. +Now lived his latest hour / in sooth this Fiddler hath." +Filled was the hero Hildebrand / straightway with a mighty wrath. + +2287 + +With might smote he Volker / that severed flew the band +E'en to the hall's wide limit / far on either hand +From shield and eke from helmet / borne by the Fiddler keen; +Therewith the doughty Volker / reft of life at last had been. + +2288 + +Pressed eager to the combat / Dietrich's warriors true, +Smiting that the mail-rings / afar from harness flew, +And that the broken sword-points / soaring aloft ye saw, +The while that reeking blood-stains / did they from riven helmets draw. + +2289 + +There of Tronje Hagen / beheld Volker dead. +In that so bloody carnage / 'twas far the sorest need +Of all that did befall him / in death of friend and man. +Alack! for him what vengeance / Hagen then to wreak began! + +2290 + +"Therefrom shall profit never / Master Hildebrand. +Slain hath been here my helper / 'neath the warrior's hand, +The best of feres in battle / that fortune ever sent." +His shield upraised he higher / and hewing through the throng he went. + +2291 + +Next saw ye Dankwart / by doughty Helfrich slain, +Gunther and Giselher / did full sorely plain, +When they beheld him fallen / where fiercely raged the fray. +For his death beforehand / dearly did his foemen pay. + +2292 + +The while coursed Wolfhart / thither and back again, +Through Gunther's men before him / hewing wide a lane. +Thrice in sooth returning / strode he down the hall, +And many a lusty warrior / 'neath his doughty hand must fall. + +2293 + +Soon the young Sir Giselher / cried aloud to him: +"Alack, that I should ever / find such foeman grim! +Sir knight, so bold and noble, / now turn thee here to me. +I trow to end thy coursing, / the which will I no longer see." + +2294 + +To Giselher then turned him / Wolfhart in the fight, +And gaping wounds full many / did each the other smite. +With such a mighty fury / he to the monarch sped +That 'neath his feet went flying / the blood e'en high above his head. + +2295 + +With rapid blows and furious / the son of Ute fair +Received the valiant Wolfhart / as came he to him there. +How strong soe'er the thane was, / his life must ended be. +Never king so youthful / might bear himself more valiantly. + +2296 + +Straight he smote Wolfhart / through well-made cuirass, +That from the wound all gaping / the flowing blood did pass. +Unto death he wounded / Dietrich's liegeman true, +Which thing in sooth might never / any save knight full gallant do. + +2297 + +When the valiant Wolfhart / of the wound was ware, +His shield flung he from him / and high with hand in air +Raised he a mighty weapon / whose keen edge failed not. +Through helmet and through mail-rings / Giselher with might he smote. + +2298 + +Grimly each the other / there to death had done. +Of Dietrich's men no longer / lived there ever one. +When old Master Hildebrand / Wolfhart's fall had seen, +In all his life there never / such sorrow him befell, I ween. + +2299 + +Fallen now were Gunther's / warriors every one, +And eke the men of Dietrich. / Hildebrand the while had gone +Where Wolfhart had fallen / down in pool of blood. +In his arms then clasped he / the warrior of dauntless mood. + +2300 + +Forth from the hall to bear him / vainly did he try: +But all too great the burden / and there he still must lie. +The dying knight looked upward / from his bloody bed +And saw how that full gladly / him his uncle thence had led. + +2301 + +Spake he thus mortal wounded: / "Uncle full dear to me, +Now mayst thou at such season / no longer helpful be. +To guard thee well from Hagen / indeed me seemeth good, +For bears he in his bosom / a heart in sooth of grimmest mood. + +2302 + +"And if for me my kinsmen / at my death would mourn, +Unto the best and nearest / by thee be message borne +That for me they weep not, / --of that no whit is need. +At hand of valiant monarch / here lie I gloriously dead. + +2303 + +"Eke my life so dearly / within this hall I've sold, +That have sore cause for weeping / the wives of warriors bold. +If any make thee question, / then mayst thou freely say +That my own hand nigh hundred / warriors hath slain to-day." + +2304 + +Now was Hagen mindful / of the minstrel slain, +From whom the valiant Hildebrand / erstwhile his life had ta'en. +Unto the Master spake he: / "My woes shalt thou repay. +Full many a warrior gallant / thou hast ta'en from us hence away." + +2305 + +He smote upon Hildebrand / that loud was heard the tone +Of Balmung resounding / that erst did Siegfried own, +But Hagen bold did seize it / when he the hero slew. +The old warrior did guard him, / as he was knight of mettle true. + +2306 + +Dietrich's doughty liegeman / with broadsword did smite +That did cut full sorely, / upon Tronje's knight; +Yet had the man of Gunther / never any harm. +Through his cuirass well-jointed / Hagen smote with mighty arm. + +2307 + +Soon as his wound perceived / the aged Hildebrand, +Feared he more of damage / to take from Hagen's hand; +Across his back full deftly / his shield swung Dietrich's man, +And wounded deep, the hero / in flight 'fore Hagen's fury ran. + +2308 + +Now longer lived not any / of all that goodly train +Save Gunther and Hagen, / doughty warriors twain. +With blood from wound down streaming / fled Master Hildebrand, +Whom soon in Dietrich's presence, / saw ye with saddest tidings stand. + +2309 + +He found the chieftain sitting / with sorrow all distraught, +Yet mickle more of sadness / unto him he brought. +When Dietrich saw how Hildebrand / cuirass all blood-red wore, +With fearful heart he questioned, / what the news to him he bore. + +2310 + +"Now tell me, Master Hildebrand, / how thus wet thou be +From thy life-blood flowing, / or who so harmeth thee. +In hall against the strangers / thou'st drawn thy sword, I ween. +'Twere well my straight denial / here by these had honored been." + +2311 + +Replied he to his master: / "From Hagen cometh all. +This deep wound he smote me / there within the hall +When I from his fury / thought to turn away. +'Tis marvel that I living / saved me from the fiend this day." + +2312 + +Then of Bern spake Dietrich: / "Aright hast thou thy share, +For thou didst hear me friendship / unto these knights declare, +And now the peace hast broken, / that I to them did give. +If my disgrace it were not, / by this hand no longer shouldst thou live." + +2313 + +"Now be not, Master Dietrich, / so sorely stirred to wrath. +On me and on my kinsmen / is wrought too great a scathe. +Thence sought we Ruediger / to bear all peacefully, +The which by men of Gunther / to us no whit would granted be." + +2314 + +"Ah, woe is me for sorrow! / Is Ruediger then dead, +In all my need there never / such grief hath happened. +The noble Gotelinde / is cousin fair to me. +Alack for the poor orphans / that there in Bechelaren must be!" + +2315 + +Grief and anguish filled him / o'er Ruediger thus slain, +Nor might at all the hero / the flowing tears restrain. +"Alack for faithful helper / that death from me hath torn. +King Etzel's trusty liegeman / never may I cease to mourn. + +2316 + +"Canst thou, Master Hildebrand, / true the tidings say, +Who might be the warrior / that Ruediger did slay?" +"That did the doughty Gernot / with mighty arm," he said: +"Eke at hand of Ruediger / lieth the royal hero dead." + +2317 + +Spake he again to Hildebrand: / "Now let my warriors know, +That straightway they shall arm them, / for thither will I go. +And bid to fetch hither / my shining mail to me. +Myself those knights will question / of the land of Burgundy." + +2318 + +"Who here shall do thee service?" / spake Master Hildebrand; +"All that thou hast yet living, / thou seest before thee stand. +Of all remain I only; / the others, they are dead." +As was in sooth good reason, / filled the tale his soul with dread, + +2319 + +For in his life did never / such woe to him befall. +He spake: "Hath death so reft me / of my warriors all, +God hath forsaken Dietrich, / ah me, a wretched wight! +Sometime a lofty monarch / I was, high throned in wealth and might." + +2320 + +"How might it ever happen?" / Dietrich spake again, +"That so worthy heroes / here should all be slain +By the battle-weary / strangers thus beset? +Ill fortune me hath chosen, / else death had surely spared them yet. + +2321 + +"Since that fate not further / to me would respite give, +Then tell me, of the strangers / doth any longer live?" +Answered Master Hildebrand: / "God wot, never one +Save Hagen, and beside him / Gunther lofty king alone." + +2322 + +"Alack, O faithful Wolfhart, / must I thy death now mourn, +Soon have I cause to rue me / that ever I was born. +Siegstab and Wolfwein / and eke Wolfbrand! +Who now shall be my helpers / in the Amelungen land? + +2323 + +"Helfrich, thane full valiant, / and is he likewise slain? +For Gerbart and Wichart / when shall I cease to plain? +Of all my life's rejoicing / is this the latest day. +Alack that die for sorrow / never yet a mortal may!" + + + + +THIRTY-NINTH ADVENTURE + +How Gunther and Hagen and Kriemhild were Slain + +2324 + +Himself did then Sir Dietrich / his armor take in hand, +To don the which did help him / Master Hildebrand. +The doughty chieftain meanwhile / must make so loud complain +That from high palace casement / oft came back the sound again. + +2325 + +Natheless his proper humor / soon he did regain, +And armed full in anger / stood the worthy thane; +A shield all wrought full firmly / took he straight in hand, +And forth they strode together, / he and Master Hildebrand. + +2326 + +Spake then of Tronje Hagen: / "Lo, where doth hither wend +In wrath his way Sir Dietrich. / 'Tis plain he doth intend +On us to wreak sore vengeance / for harm befallen here. +To-day be full decided / who may the prize for valor bear! + +2327 + +"Let ne'er of Bern Sir Dietrich / hold him so high of might +Nor deem his arm so doughty / and terrible in fight +That, will he wreak his anger / on us for sorest scathe,"-- +Such were the words of Hagen, / --"I dare not well withstand his wrath." + +2328 + +Upon these words defiant / left Dietrich Hildebrand, +And to the warriors hither / came where both did stand +Without before the palace, / and leaning respite found. +His shield well proved in battle / Sir Dietrich lowered to the ground. + +2329 + +Addressed to them Sir Dietrich / these words of sorrowing: +"Wherefore hast thou such evil, / Gunther mighty king, +Wrought 'gainst me a stranger? / What had I done to thee, +Of my every comfort / in such manner reft to be? + +2330 + +"Seemed then not sufficient / the havoc unto you +When from us the hero / Ruediger ye slew, +That now from me ye've taken / my warriors one and all? +Through me did so great sorrow / ne'er to you good knights befall. + +2331 + +"Of your own selves bethink you / and what the scathe ye bore, +The death of your companions / and all your travail sore, +If not your hearts, good warriors, / thereat do heavy grow. +That Ruediger hath fallen, / --ah me! how fills my heart with woe! + +2332 + +"In all this world to any / more sorrow ne'er befell, +Yet have ye minded little / my loss and yours as well. +Whate'er I most rejoiced in / beneath your hands lies slain; +Yea, for my kinsmen fallen / never may I cease to plain." + +2333 + +"No guilt lies here upon us," / Hagen in answer spake. +"Unto this hall hither / your knights their way did take, +With goodly train of warriors / full armed for the fight. +Meseemeth that the story / hath not been told to thee aright." + +2334 + +"What shall I else believe in? / To me told Hildebrand +How, when the knights that serve me / of Amelungenland +Did beg the corse of Ruediger / to give them from the hall, +Nought offered ye but mockings / unto the valiant warriors all." + +2335 + +Then spake the King of Rhineland: / "Ruediger to bear away +Came they in company hither; / whose corse to them deny +I bade, despiting Etzel, / nor with aught malice more, +Whereupon did Wolfhart / begin to rage thereat full sore." + +2336 + +Then spake of Bern the hero: / "'Twas fated so to be. +Yet Gunther, noble monarch, / by thy kingly courtesy +Amends make for the sorrow / thou here on me hast wrought, +That so thy knightly honor / still unsullied be in aught. + +2337 + +"Then yield to me as hostage / thyself and eke thy man; +So will I surely hinder, / as with best might I can, +That any here in Hunland / harm unto thee shall do: +Henceforward shalt thou find me / ever well disposed and true." + +2338 + +"God in heaven forfend it," / Hagen spake again, +"That unto thee should yield them / ever warriors twain +Who in their strength reliant / all armed before thee stand, +And yet 'fore foes defiant / may freely swing a blade in hand." + +2339 + +"So shall ye not," spake Dietrich, / "proffered peace forswear, +Gunther and Hagen. / Misfortune such I bear +At both your hands, 'tis certain / ye did but do aright, +Would ye for so great sorrow / now my heart in full requite. + +2340 + +"I give you my sure promise / and pledge thereto my hand +That I will bear you escort / home unto your land; +With honors fit I'll lead you, / thereon my life I set, +And for your sake sore evil / suffered at your hands forget." + +2341 + +"Ask thou such thing no longer," / Hagen then replied. +"For us 'twere little fitting / the tale be bruited wide, +That twain of doughty warriors / did yield them 'neath thy hand. +Beside thee is none other / now but only Hildebrand." + +2342 + +Then answered Master Hildebrand: / "The hour may come, God wot, +Sir Hagen, when thus lightly / disdain it thou shalt not +If any man such offer / of peace shall make to thee. +Welcome might now my master's / reconciliation be." + +2343 + +"I'd take in sooth his friendship," / Hagen gave reply, +"Ere that I so basely / forth from a hall would fly. +As thou hast done but lately, / O Master Hildebrand. +I weened with greater valor / couldst thou 'fore a foeman stand." + +2344 + +Thereto gave answer Hildebrand: / "From thee reproach like that? +Who was then on shield so idle / 'fore the Waskenstein that sat, +The while that Spanish Walter / friend after friend laid low? +Such valor thou in plenty / hast in thine own self to show." + +2345 + +Outspake then Sir Dietrich: / "Ill fits it warriors bold +That they one another / like old wives should scold. +Thee forbid I, Hildebrand, / aught to parley more. +Ah me, most sad misfortune / weigheth on my heart full sore. + +2346 + +"Let me hear, Sir Hagen," / Dietrich further spake, +"What boast ye doughty warriors / did there together make, +When that ye saw me hither / come with sword in hand? +Thought ye then not singly / me in combat to withstand?" + +2347 + +"In sooth denieth no one," / bold Sir Hagen spake, +"That of the same with sword-blow / I would trial make, +An but the sword of Niblung / burst not within my hand. +Yea, scorn I that to yield us / thus haughtily thou mak'st demand." + +2348 + +When Dietrich now perceived / how Hagen raged amain, +Raise his shield full quickly / did the doughty thane. +As quick upon him Hagen / adown the perron sprang, +And the trusty sword of Niblung / full loud on Dietrich's armor rang. + +2349 + +Then knew full well Sir Dietrich / that the warrior keen +Savage was of humor, / and best himself to screen +Sought of Bern the hero / from many a murderous blow, +Whereby the valiant Hagen / straightway came he well to know. + +2350 + +Eke fear he had of Balmung, / a strong and trusty blade. +Each blow meanwhile Sir Dietrich / with cunning art repaid, +Till that he dealt to Hagen / a wound both deep and long, +Whereat give o'er the struggle / must the valiant knight and strong. + +2351 + +Bethought him then Sir Dietrich: / "Through toil thy strength has fled, +And little honor had I / shouldst thou lie before me dead. +So will I yet make trial / if I may not subdue +Thee unto me as hostage." / Light task 'twas not the same to do. + +2352 + +His shield down cast he from him / and with what strength he found +About the knight of Tronje / fast his arms he wound. +In such wise was subdued / by him the doughty knight; +Gunther the noble monarch / did weep to see his sorry plight. + +2353 + +Bind Hagen then did Dietrich, / and led him where did stand +Kriemhild the royal lady, / and gave into her hand +Of all the bravest warrior / that ever weapon bore. +After her mickle sorrow / had she merry heart once more. + +2354 + +For joy before Sir Dietrich / bent royal Etzel's wife: +"Blessed be thou ever / in heart while lasteth life. +Through thee is now forgotten / all my dire need; +An death do not prevent me, / from me shall ever be thy meed." + +2355 + +Then spake to her Sir Dietrich, / "Take not his life away, +High and royal lady, / for full will he repay +Thee for the mickle evil / on thee have wrought his hands. +Be it not his misfortune / that bound before thee here he stands." + +2356 + +Then bade she forth lead Hagen / to dungeon keep near by, +Wherein he lay fast bolted / and hid from every eye. +Gunther, the noble monarch, / with loudest voice did say: +"The knight of Bern who wrongs me, / whither hath he fled away?" + +2357 + +Meanwhile back towards him / the doughty Dietrich came, +And found the royal Gunther / a knight of worthy name. +Eke he might bide longer / but down to meet him sprang, +And soon with angry clamor / their swords before the palace rang. + +2358 + +How famed soe'er Sir Dietrich / and great the name he bore, +With wrath was filled King Gunther, / and eke did rage full sore +At thought of grievous sorrow / suffered at his hand: +Still tell they as high wonder / how Dietrich might his blows withstand. + +2359 + +In store of doughty valor / each did nothing lack. +From palace and from tower / the din of blows came back +As on well-fastened helmets / the lusty swords came down, +And royal Gunther's valor / in the fight full clear was shown. + +2360 + +The knight of Bern yet tamed him / as Hagen erst befell, +And oozing through his armor / the blood was seen to swell +From cut of sharpest weapon / in Dietrich's arm that swung. +Right worthily King Gunther / had borne him after labors long. + +2361 + +Bound was then the monarch / by Sir Dietrich's hand, +Albeit bonds should suffer / ne'er king of any land. +But deemed he, if King Gunther / and Hagen yet were free, +Secure might never any / from their searching vengeance be. + +2362 + +When in such manner Dietrich / the king secure had bound +By the hand he led him / where Kriemhild he found. +At sight of his misfortune / did sorrow from her flee: +Quoth she: "Welcome Gunther / from out the land of Burgundy." + +2363 + +He spake: "Then might I thank thee, / sister of high degree, +When that some whit more gracious / might thy greeting be. +So angry art thou minded / ever yet, O queen, +Full spare shall be thy greeting / to Hagen and to me, I ween." + +2364 + +Then spake of Bern the hero: / "Ne'er till now, O queen, +Given o'er as hostage / have knights so worthy been, +As I, O lofty lady, / in these have given to thee: +I pray thee higher evils / to spare them now for sake of me." + +2365 + +She vowed to do it gladly. / Then forth Sir Dietrich went +With weeping eyes to see there / such knights' imprisonment. +In grimmest ways thereafter / wreaked vengeance Etzel's wife: +Beneath her hand those chosen / warriors twain must end their life. + +2366 + +She let them lie asunder / the less at ease to be, +Nor did each the other / thenceforward ever see +Till that unto Hagen / her brother's head she bore. +In sooth did Kriemhild vengeance / wreak upon the twain full sore. + +2367 + +Forth where she should find Hagen / the queen her way did take, +And in right angry manner / she to the warrior spake: +"An thou wilt but restore me / that thou hast ta'en from me, +So may'st thou come yet living / home to the land of Burgundy." + +2368 + +Answered thereto grim Hagen: / "'Twere well thy breath to save, +Full high and royal lady. / Sworn by my troth I have +That I the hoard will tell not; / the while that yet doth live +Of my masters any, / the treasure unto none I'll give." + +2369 + +"Then ended be the story," / the noble lady spake. +She bade them from her brother / straightway his life to take. +His head they struck from off him, / which by the hair she bore +Unto the thane of Tronje. / Thereat did grieve the knight full sore. + +2370 + +When that he in horror / his master's head had seen, +Cried the doughty warrior / unto Kriemhild the queen: +"Now is thy heart's desire / at length accomplished. +And eke hath all befallen / as my foreboding heart hath said. + +2371 + +"Dead lieth now the noble / king of Burgundy, +Also youthful Giselher / and Sir Gernot eke doth he. +The treasure no one knoweth / but God and me alone, +Nor e'er by thee, she-devil, / shall its hiding-place be known." + +2372 + +Quoth she: "But ill requital / hast thou made to me. +Yet mine the sword of Siegfried / now henceforth shall be, +The which when last I saw him, / my loved husband bore, +In whom on me such sorrow / through guilt of thine doth weigh full sore." + +2373 + +She drew it from the scabbard, / nor might he say her nay, +Though thought she from the warrior / his life to take away. +With both hands high she raised it / and off his head struck she, +Whereat did grieve King Etzel / full sore the sorry sight to see. + +2374 + +"To arms!" cried then the monarch: / "here lieth foully slain +Beneath the hand of woman / of all the doughtiest thane +That e'er was seen in battle / or ever good shield bore! +Though foeman howsoever, / yet grieveth this my heart full sore." + +2375 + +Quoth then the aged Hildebrand: / "Reap no gain she shall, +That thus she dared to slay him. / Whate'er to me befall, +And though myself in direst / need through him have been, +By me shall be avenged / the death of Tronje's knight full keen." + +2376 + +In wrathful mood then Hildebrand / unto Kriemhild sprung, +And 'gainst the queen full swiftly / his massy blade he swung. +Aloud she then in terror / 'fore Hildebrand did wail, +Yet that she shrieked so loudly, / to save her what might that avail? + +2377 + +So all those warriors fated / by hand of death lay strewn, +And e'en the queen full lofty / in pieces eke was hewn. +Dietrich and royal Etzel / at length to weep began, +And grievously they mourned / kinsmen slain and many a man. + +2378 + +Who late stood high in honor / now in death lay low, +And fate of all the people / weeping was and woe. +To mourning now the monarch's / festal tide had passed, +As falls that joy to sorrow / turneth ever at the last. + +2379 + +Nor can I tell you further / what later did befall, +But that good knights and ladies / saw ye mourning all, +And many a noble squire, / for friends in death laid low. +Here hath the story ending, / --that is the Nibelungen woe. + + + + + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of The Nibelungenlied, by Unknown + +*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE NIBELUNGENLIED *** + +***** This file should be named 7321.txt or 7321.zip ***** +This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: + http://www.gutenberg.org/7/3/2/7321/ + +Produced by David Starner, Thomas Berger, and the Online +Distributed Proofreading Team + +Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions will +be renamed. + +Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright +law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, +so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United +States without permission and without paying copyright +royalties. 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