The Nibelungenlied
Translated by Alice Horton.
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Editor’s Preface
The following addition to the existing translations of the Nibelungenlied originated in the desire to place before English readers a rendering which should be at once literal and metrical. Of five which have appeared during the past fifty years not one quite accomplishes this object. Three only are in verse. The first, by Jonathan Birch, which appeared in 1848, was rendered in iambics of seven feet, from the short and to some extent hypothetical text of Lachmann. The second, by W. N. Lettsom, is a spirited performance, but it takes many liberties with the language and fails to preserve the antique flavour of the work. The third, by Mr. A. G. Foster-Barham, which appeared only ten years ago, is much more satisfactory in this respect, and errs chiefly in retaining too great a roughness of rhythm, which makes it displeasing to the modern ear. Of the two prose translations, the first, entitled Echoes from Mistland (Chicago, 1877), by Mr. Auber Forestier, is rather a paraphrase than a literal rendering, though it adheres closely to the matter of the original; and the second, by Miss Armour, which has only lately appeared, seems in all respects a praiseworthy production, lacking only a metrical form to make it a fair equivalent of the great German epic.
The additional difficulties involved in any verse-translation are so great, that a translator may well be excused from facing them. Assuming the indispensable qualification of sympathy needful in the translation of any work of art from one medium to another, the differences in word-formation, in inflection, and in grammatical construction between any two languages interpose mechanical obstacles which are inconsistent with the preservation of metrical similarity; a more or less close approximation is all that can be looked for. Still more are the difficulties increased when the task involves the presentation to a modern reader of a work which belongs to a distant and nebulous past, deals with a primitive and imperfect phase of human culture, and teems with motives which, if not eradicated from human nature, are no longer regarded as legitimate and are often repugnant to modern ideas. In these circumstances it might be thought that a prose rendering would have the best or only chance of doing justice to the original. But, on the other hand, it may be urged that a prose translation of a rhymed poem can never be an adequate equivalent, especially in a work like the Nibelungenlied, where it must be obvious to any student that its construction in rhyme and strophe have played an important part in determining its style and character. Rhyme and rhythm are essential features of it; and the modern reader (as distinguished from the student) requires, no less than the medieval listener, the stimulus which they supply. To give for 9,000 lines of verse a corresponding quantity of prose seems—apart from considerations of verbal accuracy—to fail in doing due justice to the poem.
So at least the translator and editor, who are jointly responsible, have thought; though, at the same time, they have been fully alive to the necessity of a close adherence to the text. They are of the opinion of Dryden, as expressed in the preface to his version of Ovid’s Epistles, that it is the business of a translator, as it is of a portrait painter, to make his work resemble the original. On this principle they have striven not to yield to the tempting idea—too often a delusion—that by sacrificing the letter they may preserve the spirit. On the contrary, they have thought that, in such a case as this, the letter and spirit are in a large measure inseparable. With, therefore, no small expenditure of trouble, they have tried, with what success the reader must judge, to reproduce in suitable English the matter, manner, and metre of the original.
With regard to the language, no futile attempt has been made by archaicisms to give the translation the appearance of an antique. The object has been to put English readers, as far as possible, in the same position as the German who reads the work in one of the several modern German versions. At the same time it is obvious that much of what forms the English of today is not a suitable vehicle for the primitive ideas and manners illustrated in the poem. The translators have therefore tried to avoid words of merely modern use, and to adhere to English which is familiar to everyone in the Bible, or in the older Ballad literature, and is, at the same time, not out of harmony with a work which places the reader in an atmosphere far removed from that of the Victorian era.
Some latitude must also be allowed in respect to the metre. The rhythmical system of the original depends on accent rather than on time or measure. Opinions may differ as to the amount of accent to be given to lines like the following, which is a nearly normal stanza:
Nu wáren oúch die géste ze róssen álle kómen.
vil mánic ríchiu tjóste durch súlde wárt genómen.
daz vélt begónde stoúben sám ob ál daz lánt
mit loúge wære enbrúnnen: da wúrden hélde wól bekánt.
Stanza 596.
To the ordinary ear they resemble iambics with a central caesura;—a measure familiar in ballad verse, and much used by Macaulay in his well-known “Lays.” This form accordingly has been adopted as the metrical equivalent; though, for the sake of euphony, the extra accent which characterizes the second half of every fourth line has been omitted in the translation. How far this method of rendering the original is justifiable the reader may determine by turning to the specimens given by Carlyle, and comparing it with his rougher versions.
It has been thought well to prefix to the volume this Essay of Carlyle’s, because, though it was written more than sixty years ago, when the subject had attracted but little attention, it gives in a sympathetic manner, yet in a style full of characteristic humour, an account of the relations between this poem and other German medieval rhymes, founded on kindred subjects. So far as concerns the authorship of the poem, as it now exists, nothing has been discovered since Carlyle wrote. It must, however, be obvious to any careful reader that the poem is not in its original form. The references to people and events, not accounted for in it, prove that it is based on earlier legends. The strange juxtaposition of ethical motives; the contrast of ideals, as shown in the characters of Hagen and Rüdeger; the mingling of historical personages of different dates, show that in its earliest form as a whole it must have been full of anachronisms, due to the fusion of different elements. These have to some extent been elucidated by the increased knowledge of Scandinavian literature. The Eddas and Sagas exhibit, in a different form, the ancient legends on which the various parts of the poem are based. In the Volsungasaga we have a key to the earlier history of Siegfried and Brunhild, to which, in the Nibelungenlied, only obscure reference is made. In the Thidreksaga we have the Scandinavian form of the widely-spread legend of Theodoric, differing little from the version found in the German epic. But inasmuch as the former, no less than the latter, is generally admitted to be of Teutonic origin, however much infused with Scandinavian mythology, we have not come much nearer to the ultimate sources of the mythical, as distinguished from the historical, elements of the story.
Lachmann, one of the earliest editors of the Nibelungenlied, went so far as to analyze it into twenty different legends, rejecting on various grounds more than one-third of what is here given. Between that phase and the last, it is evident that there are several stages in which the poem existed as a whole. It is known that, at the request of Bishop Pilgrim of Passau in the tenth century, the story was translated into Latin prose by Conrad, called “The Scribe,” and to him is attributed the inclusion of the name of the said bishop as that of an actor in events which, so far as they are historical, belong to the fifth century. After Conrad’s time there may have been several augmented German editions before the twelfth century, to which our version belongs. There are more than twenty extant MSS., of which, however, only three are regarded as having any independent authenticity. They are designated as “A,” “B,” and “C”; of which the first, used by Lachmann, is the shortest, but betrays fewest signs of deviation from an older and good version. “C,” on the contrary, is said to be considerably altered, from an earlier popular form, to suit the more courtly taste of a later period of culture. The remaining, “B”—a fine MS. preserved in the monastery of St. Gall—is intermediate in length, and, retaining as it does many stanzas of evident antiquity, has become what may be called the textus receptus; as edited by Bartsch it is the basis of the present translation. A facsimile of one of the pages from Dr. Otto Henne am Rhyn’s Kulturgeschichte is given as a frontispiece to the translation.
Those who wish to study more closely the interesting questions surrounding the history of the poem are referred to the works of Raszmann and Simrock; to Magmisson and Morris’s translations of the Icelandic Sagas; and to a recent work by Prof. Ker on “Epic and Romance.” A popular and well-written account of the relations between the Teutonic and Scandinavian versions of the legend will be found in an interesting little book, entitled Legends of the Wagner Drama, by Miss J. L. Weston.
The Nibelungenlied
Adventure I
Kriemhilda
1
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;
Ye shall of bold knights’ battling
now hear a wondrous tale.
2
A very noble maiden
grew up in Burgundy;
Than hers no greater beauty
in any land might be:
The maid was called Kriemhilda—
a woman passing fair—
For whose sake many a warrior
his life must needs forbear.
3
To love that lovely maiden
seem’d but to be her due;
None bore her spite, and many
did for her favour sue.
Fair were beyond all measure
her noble form and face:
Her virtues were sufficient
all womankind to grace.
4
Three noble kings and wealthy
guarded her as their own:
Sir Gunther and Sir Gernot,
for deeds of honour known,
And Giselher the youngest,
a gallant warrior he:
The lady was the sister
and ward of all the three.
5
These princes were right gentle,
and came of noble race,
Bold, and of strength unequalled,
peerless in knightly grace;
“The kingdom of Burgundia,”
thus was their country hight;—
All Etzel’s land rang later
with their great deeds of might.
6
At Worms upon the Rhine flood,
they dwelt in power and might,
And there, in fealty, served them
full many a haughty knight,
With honourable service
throughout their earthly life.—
That life had woeful ending
from two great ladies’ strife.
7
Their mother was Dame Uté,
a queen exceeding rich,
And Dankrat was their father,
broad lands he left to each
When he this life departed;
he was a mighty man,
Who, e’en while yet a stripling,
his knightly deeds began.
8
The three kings, who came after,
were, as I’ve said before.
All men of strength and valour;
and to them fealty swore
The flower of noble knighthood,
of whom with truth ’twas said,
That strong they were and dauntless,
in sharp fight undismayed.
9
Foremost of them was Hagen,
of Tronjé; then his brother—
Sir Dankwart the swift-footed;
Ortwein of Metz another;
And Eckewart and Gere,
who both were margraves hight;
With Volker of Alsatia—
a stout and proven knight.
10
Rumold the kitchen-master,
a knight of high degree,
Sindold and Hunold also,
whose duty ’twas to see
That courtly rites and honours
were aye observèd well,
With many another gallant,
whom time would fail to tell.
11
Dankwart, he was the Marshal,
his nephew Ortwein bore
The office of High Sewer,
in that proud court of yore;
Sir Sindold was Cupbearer,
and a bold knight men say,
The Chamberlain was Hunold;
all honourable they.
12
Of all this courtly service,
and of their far-famed might,
And of the worth and valour
of each heroic knight,
And of their life as courtiers,
through all their joyous days,
To give a true account were
beyond my simple lays.
13
Meanwhile, amid this splendour,
the maid Kriemhilda dreamed
That she had reared a falcon—
strong, fair and wild he seem’d—
And that two eagles rent him
before her very eyes;—
No worse grief could life bring her
in any evil guise.
14
Quick to her mother Uté
she told the vision dread—
Who, after her own manner,
the dream interpreted:
“This falcon of thy rearing,
thy noble husband he—
And now may God defend him,
or he is lost to thee!”
15
“What sayest thou of husbands,
O dearest mother mine?
Never for hero’s wooing
shall I, your daughter, pine!
Spotless and fair would I be,
as now, unto my death;—
I would forego the sorrow
that lurks man’s love beneath.”
16
“Forswear not Love thus lightly,”
her mother answer gave,
“If heart’s joy ever reach thee
in life, as women crave,
Through man’s love thou must gain it;—
thou wert a seemly bride
If God do not deny thee
a good knight at thy side.”
17
“Ah, let alone such counsel,
my mother dear, I pray!
By many a woman’s witness
’tis proven, clear as day,
How heart’s delight too often
with sorrow sore is paid;—
Lest such mischance befall me,
I’ll shun them both,” she said.
18
So, in her mind Kriemhilda
held ever Love at bay,
And lived in happy freedom
for many a merry day;—
Caring for nought and no one;—
and yet it was her fate
To be one day, in honour,
a gallant warrior’s mate.
19
It was the self-same falcon
that she in dreams did see,
Just as her mother told her;
and bloody was to be
Her vengeance on her kinsmen,
by whom the deed was done—
For one man’s death did perish
full many a mother’s son.
Adventure II
Siegfried
20
In Netherland was growing
a rich king’s son and heir,
Whose father’s name was Siegmund,
Sieglind his mother fair.
In a strong castle lived they,
of far and widespread fame,
Beside the great Rhine river;
and Santen was its name.
21
This prince’s name was Siegfried,
a gallant knight and good,
In many kingdoms proved he
his brave and warlike mood;
So great his strength of body,
he rode from land to land.
Ha! what fine warriors found he
on the Burgundian strand!
22
In his best days of prowess,
when he was young and slim,
Full many a wondrous story
the country told of him—
How noble was his stature,
how fair he was to see—
And many a comely woman
look’d on him lovingly.
23
He had a careful rearing,
as did his birth befit,
His virtues were his own, though,
and nowise due to it!
Unto his father’s country
he was an ornament,
For men in all things found him
to be right excellent.
24
Now was he grown so manly
that he to court must ride;—
The men-folk saw him gladly;
and dames and maids beside
Wished that his will might bring him,
not once, but ever there;—
Full many bore him favour,
as well the knight was ware!
25
To ride forth unattended
the boy was ne’er allowed.
In costly raiment decked him
Siegmund and Sieglind proud;
And the wise elders taught him
(as well they understood),
How best to win the people,
and rule the land for good.
26
And being now so stalwart
that he could weapons bear,
Having what he requirèd,
enough and e’en to spare,
He turned his thoughts to women,
and dreamt of a fair bride:
The fairest might stand proudly
at the bold Siegfried’s side.
27
Then did his father, Siegmund,
summon his liegemen all
Unto a friendly banquet
in the great castle-hall;
To many a neighbour-king’s land
the festal tidings spread;
On strangers as on kinsmen
steeds, gear, he lavishèd.
28
If any squire were lacking
knightly estate and name,
Who, by descent and breeding,
had thereunto a claim,
Such noble youth was bidden
to tournament and board,
And with the young king, later,
was girt with knightly sword.
29
One could tell many marvels
of this great feast so rare;
Siegmund and Siegelinda
did win much honour there
By the good gifts they lavished,
with free and open hand;
Therefore so many strangers
came riding to their land.
30
Four hundred squires receivèd
their knightly gear that day.
Together with young Siegfried;
and maidens fair, they say,
Toiled at the festal raiment,
because they did him hold
So dear, and many a jewel
they broidered in the gold.
31
And wove them in the robe-weft,
and stitched upon the hem:
Sure, to such proud young warriors
behovèd lace and gem!
The host had seats preparèd
for many a gallant man,
At that June feast, where Siegfried
his knightly course began.
32
And thither to the Minster
came many a wealthy squire,
And many a noble warrior.
The elders did aspire
That day to serve the younger,
as was the ancient rule;—
And merriment, and pastime,
and joy were at the full.
33
When later, in God’s honour,
a solemn Mass was sung,
Up rose from out the people
a great and mighty throng,
Who there receivèd knighthood,
with fitting knightly rite,
And honours, such as ne’ermore
were seen of mortal wight.
34
Soon ran the knights to where they
found saddled chargers wait;
At Siegmund’s court began then
a tournament so great
That one heard hall and palace
with crash of arms resound,
As the high-mettled thanes met
upon the tilting-ground.
35
From old knights and from young ones
went thrust and parry there,
Till crash of breaking lances
re-echoed through the air;—
One saw the splinters flying
up to the palace wall
From many a gallant knight’s hand:
so eager were they all!
36
The host he bade them end it;
they led the steeds away;
Full many a sturdy buckler
to sight all broken lay;
And precious stones, in plenty,
had fallen on the sward
From out the shining shield-clasps:
the onset was so hard.
37
Then went the host’s guests whither
they bidden were to sit;
Their weariness was banished
by the choice food they ate,
And by wine of the rarest,
of which there was no stint.
Alike to friends and strangers
was all this lavishment.
38
And, though the games and pastimes
had lasted all the day,
The throngs of merry-makers
knew neither rest nor stay,
Contending for the many
good gifts that were to hand:
A bounty which redounded
to the praise of Siegmund’s land.
39
Then did the king make over
to young Siegfried, the loan
Of both his lands and castles,
as he afore had done.
Unto his knightly comrades
he gave with open hand,
So all were right well-pleasèd
that they had sought his land.
40
Until the seventh sunrise
the festival went on.
Then did the rich queen, Sieglind,
as in old days was done,
For love of her son Siegfried,
share out her red gold free:
To win all folks’ hearts to him
thereby, in sooth, hoped she.
41
Not one who in the games played,
methinks, went poor away;
It rainèd steeds and raiment
through all the land that day.
As if had come the world’s end,
and common life were o’er!
Such gifts, in such abundance,
were never known before;
42
So, with befitting honour,
ended the festal day.
And some of the rich nobles
were overheard to say,
That they would like the young man,
Prince Siegfried, for their lord:
Howbeit the honest Siegfried,
gave heed not to their word.
43
While Siegmund and Sieglinda
were living, their dear son
Would never dream of wearing
the crown for any one!
He wished to be lord only
the mighty to restrain,
Who kept the land in terror—
the bold and gallant thane!
Adventure III
How Siegfried Came to Worms
44
The Prince was little troubled
by pangs of heartache yet!
The people’s talk, however,
erelong his ears beset:
How there was in Burgundia
a maiden, passing fair;—
For her sake joy and sorrow
thereafter he did bear.
45
The beauty of this maiden
was famèd far and wide;
Her lofty mind, ’twas vaunted,
excelled her beauty’s pride,
And brought her many a wooer,
riding to Gunther’s land,
Who fain would see the damsel,
and bid for that fair hand.
46
And yet, however many
contended for her love,
Kriemhilda felt in secret
that none her heart could move;
There was no man among them
whose love she could reward;
That knight was still a stranger,
who was to be her lord.
47
But when the son of Sieglind
to lofty love inclined,
Compared with his, all wooing
was as an idle wind!
Right well, in sooth, deserved he
to win so fair a bride:
Erelong the noble Kriemhild’
stood at bold Siegfried’s side.
48
His followers and kinsmen,
seeing that he would wed,
Did counsel that the maiden
he to the altar led
Should be by birth his equal—
for his, and for their sake:
“Then,” cried the gallant Siegfried,
“Kriemhilda will I take!
49
“That beauteous young maiden
of the Burgundian land,
For her surpassing beauty.
Right well I understand
No Kaiser were so mighty
but, should he need a wife,
That princess were fit consort
to share his royal life.”
50
A rumour of the matter
soon reached King Siegmund’s ears
(’Twas buzzed among the people);
his mind was full of fears
For this his son’s intention;—
that he was fain to wed
The fair and lovely maiden,
and would not be gainsaid.
51
Sieglinda also heard it,
the noble monarch’s wife,
And much heart-searching had she
about her dear son’s life:
For well she knew King Gunther,
and his bold warrior-train.
They sought to turn the hero
back from his wooing vain.
52
Then outspake gallant Siegfried:
“Belovèd father mine,
The love of noble women
I will for aye resign
Unless I woo where Love is,
and give my heart its way.
Such is my purpose truly—
whatever men may say.
53
“If thou canst not forego her,”
the king said, “verily
My will shall be as thy will,
and well it pleaseth me;
And I will help thee end it,
and do the best I can:
Yet hath the royal Gunther
full many a haughty man!
54
“If it were only Hagen,
and no one else beside,
He hides ’neath courtly seeming
such overweening pride,
That he’ll do us a mischief—
of that I’m sore afraid,
If once we go a-wooing
this fair and stately maid.”
55
“Shall that be hindrance to us?”
asked Siegfried, fearlessly.
“If what I ask in kindness
he venture to deny,
My strong right hand shall win it!
I’ll wrest from him,” quoth he,
“Both land and lieges, surely,
for all his subtlety.”
56
Then spake the royal Siegmund,
“I do mislike thy speech!
Should tidings thereof ever
to the Rhine-border reach,
Thou durst not ever after
into that country ride.
Long have I known King Gunther,
and King Gernot beside.
57
“By force can never any
expect to win the maid,”
Declared the good King Siegmund;
“that hath been always said!
But if thou with thy warriors
wilt to her country ride,
An’ we have any friends left,
I’ll call them to thy side.”
58
“Far be it from my purpose,”
cried Siegfried, eagerly,
“That when I ride to Rhineland
warriors should follow me,
Like an invading army!
I should abhor this thing—
By force the glorious maiden
into my arms to bring!
59
“I will not owe her winning
to any other hand;
I and eleven others
will ride to Gunther’s land.
Your help, good father Siegmund,
I, for this purpose, pray.”
Then gave they to his warriors
both coloured stuffs and gray.
60
His mother heard the tidings,
the lady Siegelind,
She fell to grieving over
her dear son in her mind;
Fearing lest she might lose him
through some of Gunther’s men.
The noble queen refrained not
from bitter weeping then.
61
This seeing, young lord Siegfried
to her his way did make,
And unto his dear mother
thus tenderly he spake:
“I prithee weep not, lady,
because of mine intent;
I have no fear of foemen,
nor of disparagement.
62
“Aid thou me in my journey
to the Burgundian land,
That I and my companions
may bravely furnished stand
In raiment that shall honour
proud heroes, such as we—
Then will I for this favour,
aye thank thee fervently.”
63
“Since thou wilt not forego it,”
did Siegelind declare,
“I’ll help thee on thy journey,
my only son and heir!
I will provide apparel,
the best e’er warrior wore—
For thee and thy companions:
and ye must take good store.”
64
Then bowed to the queen-mother
Prince Siegfried, the young man.
He said: “On this my journey
I’ll take, if so I can,
None save eleven warriors;
for these be raiment made.
I long to see how fares it
with Kriemhilda,” he said.
65
So Sieglind’s beauteous ladies
sat stitching, night and day—
There were no idle fingers,
and little rest or play,
Until Prince Siegfried’s raiment
was ready to his hand.
He’d not forego his journey
to the Burgundian land.
66
His father bade him polish
his knightly harness grand,
Wherewith he meant to ride out
of royal Siegmund’s land.
And eke the glitt’ring hauberks
they likewise did prepare,
Together with stout helmets,
and bucklers broad and fair.
67
The hour of their departure
for Burgundy was nigh,
And men as well as women
watched them forebodingly,
Lest they again should never
come to their fatherland.
To pack their gear and armour
the heroes gave command.
68
Their chargers were resplendent,
their trappings of red gold;
No knight could well be prouder
nor had more right to hold
A high head, than Sir Siegfried
and his eleven men.
He craved the king’s permission
to gallop Rhinewards then.
69
With grief Siegmund and Sieglind
accorded his request;
Whom Siegfried sought to comfort,
as tenderly he pressed.
He said: “Ye must not weep now
through any care for me;
And fear not lest my life be
in any jeopardy.”
70
Sad-hearted were the warriors,
and many a maiden wept:
Doubtless their hearts foreboded
mischance for those who leapt
That day into the saddle—
they dreamt these friends lay dead—
They had good cause for mourning,
in sooth there was much need!
71
Upon the seventh morning,
at Worms, on the Rhine shore,
Arrived the gallant horsemen;
the raiment that they wore
With ruddy gold was flashing,
and all their trappings shone:
The chargers of bold Siegfried
went pacing smoothly on.
72
Their bucklers were new-wrought ones,
and light and broad beside,
And bright their helmets glittered,
as unto court did ride
Siegfried, the gallant chieftain,
in royal Gunther’s land.
Such fine-apparelled heroes
were ne’er seen on that strand.
73
Their long-swords’ points hung downwards
unto the spurs they wore;
And sharp, too, were the javelins
which these bold heroes bore.
The one that Siegfried carried
was two spans in the blade,
Its twofold edge was deadly,
and ghastly wounds it made.
74
All gilded were the bridles
they lightly held in hand;
And silken were their horse-girths;
so came they to that land.
The folk began on all sides
on them to gape and stare,
Then many of Gunther’s people
ran forth to meet them there.
75
Those high and mighty warriors,
and knight as well as squire,
Went out to bid them welcome,
as honour did require,
Receiving them with kindness
into their master’s land,
Taking their horses, straightway,
and bucklers from their hand.
76
They would have ta’en the chargers,
and led them to the stall,
Had not the gallant Siegfried
said out, before them all:
“Let mine and my men’s horses
stay here, as now they be—
It is my will and purpose
to ride hence presently!
77
“I pray you therefore tell me—
whoever knows this thing
Let him not hide it from me—
where I can find your king,
Gunther, the mighty monarch
of the Burgundian land?”
Then one among them told him,
who knew where he did stand.
78
“If you would find King Gunther,
’tis easy done, I trow,
In yonder hall I saw him,
and thither you must go;
He stands among his heroes;
and, if you’ll thither wend,
Full many a glorious warrior
you’ll find with him, good friend!”
79
Unto the king the tidings
by this time had been told:
How warriors were arrivèd
all gallant to behold,
Who wore white, glitt’ring mail-shirts,
and raiment rich and grand,
And no one knew aught of them,
in that Burgundian land.
80
Then was the king astonished,
and much he did inquire,
Whence came these splendid warriors,
in dazzling bright attire,
And with such well-wrought bucklers,
so new and eke so broad;—
It vexed the soul of Gunther
that none could give him word.
81
Then Ortwein, lord of Metz, spake,
and answered thus the king
(Rich and high-couraged was he,
and feared not anything):
“Since we know naught about them,
bid someone straightway go
And fetch my uncle Hagen,
he’ll see them, and may know.
82
“He knoweth all the kingdoms,
and ev’ry stranger-land.
If aught he wot anent them,
he’ll make us understand.”
So the king sent to fetch him,
him and his liegemen all;—
They watched his stately coming,
with warriors, to the hall.
83
What the king wanted of him?
first, Hagen sought to know.
“There are within my palace
strange warriors, I trow,
Whom not a soul here knoweth;
if thou didst them e’er see,
Declare it now, Sir Hagen,
and tell the truth to me!”
84
“That will I,” answered Hagen,
and to the window went;
One saw his keen glance wander,
till on the guests it bent.
Well pleased him their equipment,
and raiment equally:
But they were strangers to him,
ne’er seen in Burgundy.
85
He spake: “From whencesoever
have come these cavaliers,
They must themselves be princes,
or princes’ messengers.
Their raiment is so splendid,
their horses are so good;—
’Tis plain, where’er they come from,
they are of noble blood.
86
“And,” furthermore said Hagen,
“though hitherto, I ween
The famous hero Siegfried,
mine eyes have never seen,
I cannot help believing,
how strange soe’er it be,
That yon proud knight, there standing,
can be none else but he!
87
“He bringeth us new tidings,
here into this our land.
The hardy Niblungs slew he
with his own hero-hand,
Both Nibelung and Schilbung,
the sons of a rich king.
He hath wrought mighty wonders,
by sheer strength vanquishing.
88
“For riding once, all lonely,
and with no help at hand,
He came unto a mountain,
(as I did understand,)
Where lay the Niblungs’ treasure,
well watched by doughty men,
Who all were strangers to him,
until he met them then.
89
“The treasure of the Niblungs
had just been taken then
Out of a hollow mountain—
(Now hearken, my good men!)
While as the Niblung warriors
to share it did prepare,
Young Siegfried came, and saw them:
and had good cause to stare.
90
“He came so nigh unto them
that he could see them all,
And they did also see him;—
then one of them did call:
‘Here comes the mighty Siegfried,
the Netherlander strong!’
He met with strange adventures
the Nibelungs among.
91
“The knight was well received by
Schilbung and Nibelung;
And with one voice in counsel
those noble lords and young
Cried: ‘Share for us the treasure,
thou honourable man!’
And eagerly besought him:
so he to share began.
92
“He saw so many jewels
as I have heard men say,
That fivescore waggons scarcely
would carry them away;
Yet more there was of red gold,
from out the Nib’lungs’ land:
And all must be divided
by gallant Siegfried’s hand.
93
“And unto him for wages
they gave the Niblungs’ sword:
But little they foreboded
what would be their reward
For rendering this service
to Siegfried, the good knight;—
Ere he could end the sharing
they had begun to fight.
94
“They had their friends anear them,
twelve gallant armèd men,
Who all were mighty giants—
but what availed them then?
For Siegfried fell upon them
and slew them in his ire,
Full seven hundred Niblungs,
vanquished in battle dire,
95
“With their good sword resistless,
that was yclept ‘Balmung.’
And through the mighty terror
that seized those warriors young,
Dread of the sword, and hero
who bravely did it wield;—
Their land and eke their castles
unto him did they yield.
96
“The wealthy kings he also
smote, till they both fell dead.
But he himself, through Albrich,
was grievously bested,
Who would avenge his masters
upon the spot—till he
Found the great strength of Siegfried
beyond his mastery.
97
“The sturdy dwarf was powerless
against him in the fray.
Like lions wild to the mountain
they twain then broke away,
Till the Tarnhelm1 from Albrich
he wrested; and thus lord
Became the dreaded Siegfried
of all the Niblung hoard.
98
“They who had dared the battle
there, one and all, lay slain.
Then bade he that the treasure
be carried back again
Unto the cave, whence erstwhile
the Niblungs did it take.
And then did he stout Albrich
his treasure-keeper make.
99
“By a great oath he made him
unto him fealty swear,
To serve him in all service,
no matter when or where.”
So spake Hagen of Tronjé,
“That did he presently:
“There never was a warrior
who had such might as he!
100
“And yet another story
of Siegfried I have heard:
How he did slay a dragon,
with his own hand and sword,
And in its blood he bathed him
till horny grew his skin,
And thus no sword can cut him,
as hath been often seen.
101
“Then let us this young hero
receive as best we may,
Lest we deserve his hatred
and have to rue the day.
He is of such bold spirit
’twere best to be his friend:
He hath, by his strong right hand,
wrought wonders without end.”
102
Then the great king said, “Truly,
methinks that thou art right.
See but how chivalrously
he stands prepared to fight,
He and his warriors with him,
a dauntless man is he!
We will go down to meet him,
and greet him courteously.”
103
“Thou mayest,” answered Hagen,
“with honour do this thing,
His ancestry is noble,
his sire a wealthy king.
One sees it in his bearing—
and, by the dear Lord Christ,
It is no trifle brings him,
I warrant, on this quest!”
104
Then spake the country’s ruler:
“Right welcome let him be—
That he is brave and noble
hath aye been told to me;
We’ll make his sojourn merry
in our Burgundian land.”
So saying, down went Gunther
to where Siegfried did stand.
105
The host and all his warriors
received the guest so well
That nothing to good breeding
was lacking, sooth to tell.
The goodly man, on his side,
bowed low before them there,
And thanked them for their greeting,
so friendly and so fair.
106
“I marvel at these riddles,”
spake Gunther, suddenly,
“Whence have you, noble Siegfried,
come unto this country?
And for what purpose come you
to Worms upon the Rhine?”
The guest unto the king said:
“To answer shall be mine.
107
“To me were told the tidings,
erst in my fatherland,
That here with you were dwelling
(which I would know firsthand,)
The boldest of all warriors—
oft said they so to me—
That ever monarch governed:
lo, I am come to see!
108
“Thy fame hath also reached me;
I hear the knights declare
That never king was bolder
nor braver, anywhere.
Such is the common folk-talk
o’er all the land, in sooth,
And I shall have no quiet
until I know the truth.
109
“I also am a warrior,
and shall too wear a crown;
And I shall ne’er content me
until I win renown,
Until the folk say of me,
that I have proved my right
To reign o’er land and people:
my honour do I plight
110
“And head thereto. And wert thou
as bold as some men say,
I will now wrestle from thee
whatever is thine to-day;
I care not who gainsay it,
or who may like, or hate:
Thy broad lands and thy castles
shall mine be, soon or late!”
111
The king did greatly marvel,
and eke his liegemen all,
At the strange declaration
that from his lips did fall:
To take his kingdom from him!
so that was his intent!
His thanes all heard it, likewise,
and fierce was their dissent.
112
“Whereby have I deserved this?”
Gunther the warrior cried,
“That lands my father governed,
with honour, till he died,
Should be now wrested from us
by force, by whomsoe’er?
That were to prove but poorly
that we too knighthood bear.”
113
“Nought else will I,” quoth Siegfried,
“by that I fall or stand:
If thy strength cannot peace win
for thine own fatherland,
Then shall my strong hand rule it,
and after me mine heir;
If thou dost win, thine be it,
and we thy rule must bear.
114
“Thy heritage, mine also,
are now alike at stake;
Whichever of the other
shall wholly conquest make
To him shall all be subject—
the land and all its folk.”
But Hagen and King Gernot
in hasty answer spoke:
115
“Far be it from our purpose,”
spake Gernot presently,
“To conquer new possessions,
and to cause death thereby
At hands of heroes; truly,
we have a rich estate:
Which pays us due allegiance,
nor seeks a better fate.”
116
Round and about were standing
his friends, in sullen mood;
The lord of Metz, Sir Ortwein,
among the others stood;
He spake: “This friendly parley
doth vex me sore, as knight—
Stout Siegfried unprovoked hath
here challenged you to fight.
117
“If you and your two brethren
were here, without defence,
And if he brought against you
the army of a prince,
Methinks I could o’ermaster
yea, e’en such doughty one!
And force this haughty warrior
to change his braggart tone.”
118
This saying stirred fierce anger
in him of Netherland.
He spake: “Ne’er shalt thou measure
against my like thine hand!
I am a mighty king’s son,
and thou but a king’s knight:
Twelve such as thou art could not
withstand me in the fight!”
119
Ortwein, the lord of Metz, then
for swords called, lustily;
Of Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
the sister’s son was he;
That he had held his peace still
seemed not to Gunther right.
But Gernot put his word in,
the bold and ready knight.
120
He thus spake unto Ortwein:
“Now let thine anger be!
Siegfried hath not yet done us
aught evil that I see,
Our difference in goodwill
we yet may end, I deem,
And thus may gain his friendship;
’twill better us beseem.”
121
Then spake the doughty Hagen:
“Well do we to be wrath,
Both we, and all thy warriors,
for hath he not come forth,
Here to the Rhine, to flout us?
he might have let that be!
My own good lords had never
done him such injury.”
122
To this made answer Siegfried,
that mightiest of men,
“If what I now have spoken
offend you, Sir Hagen,
You shall have eye-proof, shortly,
how this my strong right hand
Shall do great deeds of prowess
in this Burgundian land.”
123
“That I, for one, will hinder!”
Gernot in answer said—
And unto all his warriors
insulting speech forbade,
Because such speech did grieve him.
Then into Siegfried’s head
Came thoughts of Lady Kriemhild,
the lovely, peerless maid.
124
“Is not all strife unseemly
between us?” Gernot said;
“However many heroes
fell by our prowess dead,
Small honour would by us be,
by you small vantage won.”
Then answered him Prince Siegfried,
the royal Siegmund’s son:
125
“Wherefore delayeth Hagen?
and Ortwein, what doth he,
That he and his companions
haste not to strive with me?
(Whereof he hath a’ many
e’en here in Burgundy).”
But it was Gernot’s counsel
that none should risk reply.
126
“You shall be welcome to us,”
continued Uté’s son;
“You and the knightly comrades
who come with you, each one;
Right gladly will we serve you,
I and these kinsmen mine.”
Then for the guests were ordered
goblets of Gunther’s wine.
127
Loud spake the country’s ruler:
“All that we have is yours,
What ye desire, in honour,
we’ll call no longer ours,
But gladly share it with you,
be it or wealth, or blood.”
This wrought in good Sir Siegfried
a somewhat softer mood.
128
The knights were soon relievèd
of all the gear they brought;
And lodgment was found for them—
the very best was sought
For Siegfried’s knightly followers;
well were they lodged that day.
And now, in all Burgundia,
right welcome guests were they.
129
All honour too was shown them,
on that and many a day,
A thousand times more honour
than I can ever say!
This had his boldness gained him;
and this is true I state:
That seldom any saw him
who long could bear him hate.
130
On pastimes now and pleasure
the kings and court were set.
But, whatsoe’er they started,
he outstript all men yet:
For none could equal Siegfried,
nor come his strength anear—
Whether it were stone-putting,
or shooting with the spear.
131
And when by courtly custom
they will’d their games to play
In presence of the ladies—
these knights of humour gay—
Approving glances followed
the prince of Netherland.
Yet his heart brooded ever
on loftier love, at hand.
132
Though to whate’er was passing
he lent a ready mind,
One gracious maiden ever
he in his heart did find;—
So, likewise, did the damsel,
whom yet he had not seen,
Incline to him in secret,
and talk of him, I ween.
133
When in the court the young folk
their warlike games began,
The knights and their attendants,
Kriemhilda straightway ran
And watched them from the window,
king’s daughter though she were,
Nor while it lasted did she
for other pastime care.
134
And had he known she watched him,
whom in his heart he bore,
It had been ample pleasure—
he would have asked no more.
And could his eyes have seen her,
ye need not to be told
No better bliss and greater
for him this world could hold.
135
When he, among the heroes,
down in the courtyard stood,
Between the games, at leisure,
as other warriors would;
So winsomely he stood there,
Queen Siegelinda’s son,
That the heart’s love of many
a noble dame he won.
136
And many a time he pondered:
“How shall I e’er attain
To see the noble damsel,
whose love I seek to gain,
Her whom I love so dearly,
and have for many a day?
To me she’s still a stranger,
with sorrow I must say.”
137
Whene’er the kings were minded
to ride throughout their land,
Their vassal knights had ever
to follow, close at hand;
And Siegfried must be with them,
which did the maid distress,
And he too suffered often,
for her dear sake, no less.
138
So dwelt he with the three kings
(and ’tis all true you hear,)
In Gunther’s court and country,
the space of one whole year;
And all that time his Lady
he never saw at all,
Through whom much love unto him
and sorrow did befall.
Adventure IV
How Siegfried Fought the Saxons
139
And now, behold, strange tidings
have come to Gunther’s land,
And heralds from a distance
arrive at the command
Of warriors unheard of
and yet who hatred bore.
And when the three kings heard it
their grief, in sooth, was sore.
140
These warriors’ names I’ll tell you:
the first was Lud’ger hight,
Out of the Saxon country,
a rich king of great might;
And Ludegast came with him,
who was of Denmark king;—
These twain brought many with them,
a princely following.
141
To Gunther’s land the heralds
their ready steps had bent,
Whom those kings, his opponents,
had with their message sent.
The unknown men were questioned
as to the news they brought,
And, summoned by King Gunther,
the royal presence sought.
142
The king did greet them fairly;
“Be welcome here,” quoth he,
“Though who hath sent you hither
is yet unknown to me:
That must I hear now of you,”
declared the monarch good.
Exceedingly they fearèd
King Gunther’s angry mood.
143
“If thou, O king, allowest,
the message we’ll reveal
Which we are sent to bring thee,
and nothing will conceal.
We’ll name to you the masters
who’ve sent us to this strand:
Lud’gast and Lud’ger, namely,
who would invade your land.
144
“Ye have incurred their anger,
nor shun we here to state
That both our masters harbour
for you the greatest hate.
They mean to come with armies
to Worms upon the Rhine:
And many warriors aid them;—
so warn we thee and thine.
145
“Within twelve weeks their journey
must here accomplished be,
If you’ve good friends to help you,
you’ll seek them speedily
To guard your land and castles,
and fight in battlefield.
By them will here be cloven
full many a helm and shield.
146
“Or, if ye will treat with them,
so make your offer: then
They will not bring upon you
their hosts of armèd men,
All bitter foes unto you,
to work you grievous woe,
Destroying your fair knighthood
with many a deadly blow.”
147
“Now tarry here a little,”
replied the monarch good,
“Until I have bethought me—
then shall ye learn my mood.
If I have faithful subjects
I must not hide this thing;
This grievous errand must I
unto my lieges bring.”
148
Rich as he was, to Gunther
it was a trouble sore;
Within his heart the matter
he pondered o’er and o’er.
He sent in quest of Hagen,
and others of his men,
And bade them from the palace
to fetch King Gernot then.
149
His worthiest came unto him,
all that were found to hand.
He spake: “The foeman cometh
here into this our land,
Bringing a mighty army;
to work you all much woe.”
To which the bold knight Gernot
made answer: “Nay, not so,
150
“Our good swords shall defend us!”
undaunted Gernot said;
“None but the doomed die, ever—
and they’re as good as dead!
For fear of death, I’ll never
forget mine honour dear.
Let the foe come, and welcome!
they’ll find us ready here!
151
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“The thing doth bode no good;
Lud’gast and Lud’ger both are
too arrogant of mood.
The time’s too short to gather,
and furnish all our men;
Ye must advise with Siegfried.”
Thus spake the bold Hagen.
152
They bade men take the heralds,
and lodge them in the town.
However hostile to them,
for sake of his renown
Gunther would have them cared for,
as was their due and right;
Until he knew what friends would
stand by him in the fight.
153
Yet the king’s heart was heavy
and sad with anxious care.
But one beheld him mourning—
a gallant knight and fair,
Who knew not of the sorrow
that had befall’n the king;—
Therefore besought he Gunther
to declare to him this thing.
154
“To me it is a marvel,”
quoth Siegfried (for ’twas he),
“How all your merry custom
hath changèd utterly,
Which was the rule among us,
and hath so long held sway?”
To which, in answer, Gunther,
the comely knight did say:
155
“Not unto every comer
would I the grief declare,
Which close within my bosom
in secret I must bear:
One keeps one’s deepest sorrow
for steadfast friends,” he said.
At this did Siegfried’s colour
change quick, ’twixt white and red.
156
“I never have denied you,”
he spake unto the king;—
“And shall not, in this trouble,
my strong arm succour bring?
If you for friends are seeking,
lo, am I not your friend?
I trust to be so ever—
with honour, till mine end.”
157
“Now God reward you, Siegfried,
for what you now have said.
And though your strength should never
be needed in mine aid,
Yet doth this news rejoice me,
that you my friend will be;—
And you shall ne’er regret it,
if life be granted me.
158
“And you shall hear the reason
wherefore I now am sad:
From enemies, by heralds,
this message I have had:
That they will, with their armies,
assail us, at our door;—
The like no warriors ever
did in these lands before.”
159
“Let not your heart be troubled,”
quoth Siegfried, thereunto;
“And calm your anxious spirit,
and as I pray you, do!
Leave it to me to win you
honour and vantage both,
And bid your thanes come hither
to aid you, nothing loth.
160
“Although your mighty foemen
should have at their command
Full thirty thousand swordsmen,
yet would I them withstand,
Though I had but a thousand:
so leave this all to me.”
“For this,” said Gunther, “ever
your debtor I shall be.”
161
“So let a thousand warriors
at my disposal be,
Since I of mine own following,
have only here with me
A dozen knights, all reckoned:
thus will I guard your land,
And faithfully at all times
shall serve you Siegfried’s hand.
162
“In this must Hagen help us,
his nephew Ortwein too,
Dankwart and Sindold also,
all knights beloved of you.
And Volker shall ride with us,
Volker the gallant man,
A better one I know not,
and he shall lead the van.
163
“And let the heralds ride back
home to their masters’ land;
And that they soon shall see us
give them to understand,
That peace within our castles
may undisturbèd reign.”
For followers and kinsmen
the king then sent amain.
164
The messengers of Lud’ger
straightway to court repair.
At news of home-returning
greatly rejoiced they were.
The good King Gunther gave them
rich gifts to take away,
And promised them safe conduct:
right glad of heart were they.
165
“Say now,” King Gunther bade them,
“unto my foes who come,
They’d best forego this journey,
and stay content at home.
But, if they be determined
to seek me in my land,
Unless my good friends fail me,
they’ll find their work to hand.”
166
Rich presents then they, straightway,
before the heralds bore,
Gunther was rich in treasure,
and had enough and more;
These men of Lud’ger’s durst not
refuse the offered fee,
And when they leave had taken,
departed joyfully.
167
Now when they unto Denmark
returnèd were at last,
And had declared the tidings
unto King Ludegast,
Which they had brought from Rhineland,
and all to him was said,
The proud and haughty answer
filled him with grief and dread.
168
They said that by the Rhine dwelt
full many a gallant wight:
“Among them, with King Gunther,
there was a certain knight,
Who bore the name of Siegfried—
a knight of Netherland.”
Sore grieved was Lud’gast when he
this news did understand.
169
As soon as they of Denmark
had heard the news of war,
They made all haste to gather
their friends from near and far,
Till Ludegast could reckon
on twenty-thousand men,
All warriors bold, and ready
the war-march to begin.
170
King Ludeger the Saxon
assembled his men, too,
Till he had forty thousand
or even more to show,
Ready to join the others,
and ride to Burgundy.
Nor was King Gunther idle
at home, for also he
171
Sent word to all his kinsmen,
and to his brothers’ men,
To bid their troops assemble
to go to battle then;
And likewise Hagen’s warriors—
the heroes needed all.
Whereby must many a chieftain
in death, thereafter, fall.
172
So made they all things ready.
When perfect was each plan,
The gallant warrior, Volker,
was bade to lead the van,
And thus they rode together
from Worms, upon the Rhine.
The chief command to Hagen
of Tronjé they assign.
173
With them did ride Sir Sindold,
and eke the brave Hunold,
Two knights of whom was either
well worth King Gunther’s gold;
And Dankwart, Hagen’s brother,
his nephew Ortwein too,
Who also might with honour
upon the war-march go.
174
“Sir king,” said Siegfried, “prithee,
in quiet bide at home,
Seeing that all thy warriors
with me to battle come,
Remain to guard the women,
and aye be of good cheer:
I trow I can take care of
your honour and your gear!
175
“From those who would assail you,
at Worms upon the Rhine,
I’ll see that nought of evil
befall or thee or thine.
So closely will we press them,
and compass them so near,
That all their braggart boasting
shall soon be changed to fear.”
176
From Rhine they rode through Hesse,
their warriors as well,
Towards the Saxon country—
where they to fighting fell.
They ravaged all the borders
and spoiled with sword and brand,
Till fear fell on those princes,
who sorrowed for their land.
177
So came they o’er the marches;
their followers pressed on,
And then the gallant Siegfried
began to think thereon:
“Who shall defend our camp-folk,
now we have brought them here?
More damage-wreaking raiders
to Saxons never were.”
178
Some counselled: “On the march let
bold Dankwart guard our youth;
He is a trusty warrior,
and swift in act, forsooth:
Let him and also Ortwein
have conduct of the rear;
So shall we have less damage
from Lud’ger’s men to fear.”
179
“Then I myself will ride on,”
did gallant Siegfried cry,
“And keep the foremost outlook,
till we the foe espy;
Until I find out where these
same crafty warriors lurk.”
Fair Sieglind’s son then quickly
donned helmet and hauberk.
180
The rank and file to Hagen
he entrusted as he went,
And also unto Gernot,
the warrior excellent.
Then all alone forth rode he
into the Saxon-land;
That very day his sword hewed
full many a helmet-band.
181
He saw a whole vast army
upon the plain outspread,
By which his own few helpers
were far outnumberèd:
There were full forty thousand,
or even more, maybe;—
But when Sir Siegfried saw them,
his heart was full of glee!
182
On the foe’s side a warrior
had to the front been sent,
Who on his guard stood ready,
watchful and diligent.
The hero Siegfried saw him,
and the bold man saw him:
And each did watch the other,
with jealous hate and grim.
183
I’ll tell you who it was, who
thus sentinel did stand:
(A shining shield of red gold
was hanging on his hand,)
King Ludegast it was who
his army thus did guard—
The noble guest spurred forward
to meet him on the sward.
184
King Ludegast had also
his enemy espied,
And each sharp spurs had driven
into his stallion’s side,
With lances on the shields bent
each charged with all his might,
And Ludegast the mighty
was soon in sorry plight.
185
After the crash, the chargers
bore the two princes by,
As if a mighty storm-wind
had blown them furiously,
Till each, the rein obeying,
was turned in knightly way;
Then did the two grim foemen
with swords their skill essay.
186
The mighty strokes of Siegfried
made all the field resound,
Until King Lud’gast’s helmet
seemed flaming all around—
The fire-red sparks shot upwards
beneath the hero’s hand,
Each knight found in his fellow
a foeman worth his brand.
187
King Lud’gast dealt him also
right many an ugly blow:
Their good shields caught the sword-thrusts,
that else had laid them low.
Of Lud’gast’s warriors, thirty
were witness of the fray.
But, ere they came to aid him,
Siegfried had gained the day.
188
From three great wounds and ghastly,
which to the king he dealt
Clean through his white, steel harness;
—though it was firmly welt—
Where the keen sword-point entered
burst from his wounds the blood.
King Ludegast might well be
thereat of doleful mood!
189
He begged for life; and offered
to pledge to him his land,
Telling him that ’twas Lud’gast
whose fate was in his hand.
And then uprode his warriors,
who witnessed had right well
What, ’twixt the twain before them,
upon the watch, befell.
190
Siegfried now thence would take him;
but he was set upon
By thirty of the foemen:
yet did he hold his own,
And kept his wealthy captive;
and struck out, brave and true,
And gave those stately chieftains
much bitter cause to rue.
191
In self-defence, the thirty
he thereupon did slay.
One only left he living;
who spurred his steed away
To bear the direful tidings
of all that there befell:
Which eke his bloody helmet
did but too plainly tell.
192
When to the men of Denmark
the dreadful news was told—
How that theirking was taken—
they scarce their grief could hold.
And when they told his brother,
he fell to rave like mad,
In uncontrollèd fury—
so great the grief he had.
193
So Ludegast the warrior
was captive made, and then
Led from the field by Siegfried,
and giv’n to Gunther’s men.
To Hagen’s care they gave him;
and when they heard the truth,
That ’twas the king he brought them—
they did not grieve, forsooth!
194
The banner of Burgundia
was fixed its staff unto.
“Come on, my men!” cried Siegfried,
“here have we more to do,
Before the day be ended.
If God preserve my life,
There’ll weep among the Saxons
full many a comely wife!
195
“Give ear, ye Rhine-born heroes,
unto these words I say:
To Lud’ger’s host I, truly,
can show ye straight the way.
Ye’ll see some helmet-hewing
by heroes’ hands, I trow!
And, ere we turn us homewards,
what grief is some shall know.”
196
To horse did Gernot hasten,
as eke did all his men.
Aloft upbore the banner
the stalwart minstrel-thane—
The high-born noble Volker;—
before the host he rode;
And eke the camp-folk, following,
proudly to battle strode.
197
They had no more, all counted,
than just a thousand men
And twelve, with those of Siegfried.
The dust ’gan rising then
Upon the streets and roadways,
as through the land they rode:
One saw their lances shining,
and many a good shield glowed.
198
Now also had the Saxons
come forth in great array.
Their swords were finely sharpened,
as I have heard men say;
And keen they were and deadly,
wielded by heroes’ hands:
Therewith they, from the strangers,
would castle guard and lands.
199
The marshal of the Rhine-men
led on his warriors then.
And Siegfried followed closely,
with the twelve valiant men
Whom he had brought as comrades
from out the Netherland.
That day in blood of battle
was stainèd many a hand.
200
For Sindold’s might, and Hunold’s,
and Gernot’s had laid
In course of that fell combat,
full many a hero dead,
Ere they had time to reckon
the valour of the foe.
And many a winsome lady
that day must weep for woe.
201
Sir Volker and Sir Hagen,
and also Ortewein,
Dimmed in that strife the light that
from many a helm did shine,
With damp of blood downpouring—
these battle-valiant men!
Sir Dankwart’s prowess also
wrought many a marvel then.
202
And also they of Denmark
did well their weapons wield,
And many a thrust resounded
on many a polish’d shield;
And the sharp sword-strokes echoed
death-dealing, blow on blow.
The warlike Saxons likewise
did harm enough, I trow!
203
As now the bold Burgundians,
pressed forward in the fight,
By them was many a sword-wound,
wide-cleft—a ghastly sight!
And streaming o’er the saddles,
one saw the reeking blood.
Thus fought they for dear honour,
those valiant knights and good.
204
One heard there, loud-resounding,
from every hero’s hand,
The clashing of keen weapons;
whilst they of Netherland
Dashed after their bold leader,
into the thickest fray.
Right valiantly they followed
where Siegfried showed the way.
205
For him the Rhenish heroes
could never come anigh;—
One might have seen down-flowing
red streamlets bloodily
Beneath the glitt’ring helmets,
cloven by Siegfried’s hand;—
Until he saw King Lud’ger
before his warriors stand.
206
Three sev’ral times he’d traversed
the host, from end to end,
And now, to help him, Hagen
his steps did thither bend.
Right well in fight assuaged they
the fierceness of their mood:
Through them that day must perish
full many a warrior good.
207
When Ludeger the stalwart
saw Siegfried near him stand,
And how aloft he wielded
the good sword in his hand—
The mighty weapon Balmung—
and what a host it slew:
The king waxed very wrathful,
and fierce his anger grew.
208
Then was a mighty thronging,
and clang of swords as well,
As on each side the warriors
on their opponents fell.
The chieftains sought each other,
mettle and strength to gauge;—
The hosts began to waver;
then waxed the hate and rage.
209
The leader of the Saxons
was well aware, I trow,
His brother was a captive—
and therefore grieved enow.
He knew too that the captor
was Siegelinda’s son;—
’Twas first set down to Gernot,
but soon the truth was known.
210
So fierce was Lud’ger’s onslaught,
and eke of such fell force,
That under Siegfried’s saddle
stagger’d his battle-horse.
But soon it did recover;
and, as the turmoil grew,
The aspect of bold Siegfried
was terrible to view.
211
Hagen he had to aid him,
and Gernot too was by,
And Dankwart and Sir Volker;—
the dead around did lie.
There fought the bold thane Ortwein,
and Sindold, and Hunold.
Who, on the field of battle,
left many a warrior cold.
212
In combat undivided
these noble princes were;
And o’er their helmets, harmless,
flew many a well-aimed spear
Between the glitt’ring targets
from each opposing knight.
And blood-stained were the bucklers
that whilom shone so bright.
213
And, in the stress of battle,
full many an eager knight
Dismounted from his charger.
Thus, hand to hand, did fight
Siegfried the bold, and Lud’ger,
who each did each defy.
One saw the broken splinters
of shafts and lances fly.
214
Fast flew the shield-clasps, severed
by mighty Siegfried’s hand.
He thought himself the victor,
this prince of Netherland,
Over the dauntless Saxons;—
so many wounded lay.
Ha, how the bright mail-armour
at Dankwart’s strokes did fray!
215
Just then the Saxon Lud’ger
espied upon a shield
A kingly crown emblazoned,
which Siegfried’s arm did wield.
Then knew he, of a surety,
that ’twas the mighty man.
The chieftain to his comrades
loudly to call began:
216
“Forego your fighting, warriors—
my lieges, all is done!
For here have I seen Siegfried,
the royal Siegmund’s son;—
Siegfried the mighty hero
mine eyes have seen, I trow—
Sent by some evil devil
to work us Saxons woe.”
217
Then lowered were the ensigns
at Ludeger’s command.
For peace he sued; which, erelong,
was granted to his band;
Though he as Gunther’s pris’ner
must go to Burgundy:
Bold Siegfried’s hand alone ’twas
that won this victory.
218
By general agreement
the combat then was stopped,
And many a battered buckler
was by the fighters dropped,
And many a helm;—whatever
was found upon the land,
Bore on it blood-red traces
of some Burgundian hand.
219
They captured whom they listed:
all had they in their power.
And King Gernot and Hagen—
of chivalry the flower—
Had the sick borne on litters;
and, with them, took they then,
As prisoners to the Rhineland,
five hundred goodly men.
220
Meanwhile the vanquished warriors
to Denmark rode away,
Nor could the Saxons boast of
much better luck than they,
That any one need praise them:
sore vexed these heroes were.
The friends, too, of the fallen
bewailed them, in despair.
221
They had their arms and weapons
unto the Rhine conveyed.
How well now all had ended!
With his brave warriors’ aid
Siegfried the prince had done it,
as he did all things, well:
Which even Gunther’s liegemen
were bound in truth to tell.
222
To Worms a message firstly
the gallant Gernot sent,
To let his friends and kinsmen
know how the matter went,
And what success had crowned them—
him and his lieges all:
For honour had they striven,
and gallantly withal.
223
The young esquires ran quickly,
and soon the news was told.
And they for joy exulted—
whom grief before did hold—
At these all-welcome tidings,
which to the city came.
And many were the questions
asked by each noble dame:
224
“How had they fared, the warriors
of the most noble king?”
One of the squires they, straightway,
before Kriemhilda bring:
But this was done in secret,
she took no open part—
Though there was one among them
to whom was pledged her heart.
225
And when she saw the envoy
into her chamber led,
Kriemhild, the beauteous maiden,
in voice most kindly said:
“Now tell me the dear tidings
and gold I’ll give to thee;—
And tell’st thou with no lying,
a friend thou hast in me.
226
“How fared my brother Gernot
amid the fight?” she said,
“And other friends and kinsmen?
have we left many dead?
And who did best of any?
fain would I hear of thee.”
Then outspake that bold herald:
“Of cravens none had we!
227
“Yet, in the thick of battle
rode ne’er a man so well,
Oh, Princess high and mighty—
since I the truth must tell—
As did the noble stranger,
who came from Netherland:
Full many a wondrous deed was
wrought by bold Siegfried’s hand.
228
“For what great feats soever
in battle may have done
Sir Dankwart and Sir Hagen
and many another one;
Howe’er they fought for honour,
it all was idle wind
Compared with Siegfried’s doings,
the son of Siegelind.
229
“Though in the strife of battle
full many a hero fell,
The wonders wrought by Siegfried
no man hath words to tell!
Nor all his deeds of daring
when he to battle rode:
Through him, for fallen kinsmen,
the women’s tears have flowed.
230
“And many a girl’s betrothed one
ne’er rose from off that ground.
Upon the brazen helmets
one heard his blows resound;
And from the death-wounds spurted
hot streams of crimson blood:
In all his acts is Siegfried
a gallant knight and good.
231
“What doughty deeds were wrought by
Ortwein, of Metz the lord!
How ever many foemen
he came at with his sword,
There did he leave them lying—
the better part were dead;
And yet no less of Gernot,
your brother, might be said.
232
“For he did work such ruin
as ne’er was seen in fight.
In truth, one must confess here
of each well-proven knight
Among the proud Burgundians,
that they all bravely bore
Themselves, and kept their honour
untarnished evermore.
233
“Full many an empty saddle
their handiwork did show;
And with their bright swords’ clashing
loud did the field echo.
The Rhenish heroes truly,
so fell a riding made,
’Twere better for their foemen
if they at home had stayed.
234
“The two bold knights of Tronjé
did work much dire distress,
What time the charging armies
did one another press.
And many a warrior perished
beneath bold Hagen’s hand;—
There’s much to tell of him yet
here in Burgundian land.
235
“Sindold and Hunold also,
who were King Gernot’s men,
And the bold warrior Runold,
such doughty deeds did then,
That Ludeger the Saxon
must rue, until he die,
That ever he thy kinsmen
did on the Rhine defy.
236
“Yet still the best achievement
that on that field hath been,
Or any, from the youngest
to the oldest man hath seen,
Was done in knightly fashion
by Siegfried’s own right hand.
Rich hostages he bringeth
here, into Gunther’s land.
237
“These by sheer strength he vanquished,
the brave and goodly wight!
And Ludegast of Denmark
hath suffered great despite,
And Ludeger his brother,
who from the Saxons came.
Now hearken to my tidings,
most rich and noble dame!
238
“They twain were taken prisoners,
and that by Siegfried’s hand.
Never so many captives
were brought into this land
As to the Rhine are coming
only for Siegfried’s part.”
No news could have been dearer
to Lady Kriemhild’s heart.
239
“Unwounded captives bring they—
five hundred men and more;
And then the deadly-wounded—
of bloody biers fourscore;—
Full eighty blood-stained stretchers,
my Lady, understand!
The better part of these were
slain by bold Siegfried’s hand.
240
“They who, thus overweening,
have flouted us on Rhine,
Must now, as battle-pris’ners,
in Gunther’s kingdom pine:
Yea, even now they bring them
with joy unto our land.”
Then sweetly flushed her fair face,
as she did understand.
241
Her lovely face, with pleasure,
became all rosy red;
For, by good luck, deliver’d
out of the direst need
Had been her goodly warrior—
the young man, Prince Siegfried;
For all her friends rejoiced she—
as she was bound, indeed.
242
Then spake the winsome maiden:
“Well hast thou said, and now
Thou shalt have costly raiment
for guerdon, that I owe;
And ten good golden marks too;
they shall be brought thee here!”
Such tidings to rich ladies
a man would gladly bear!
243
They gave him for his guerdon
the raiment and the gold.
Then to the windows hastened
the fair maids, to behold
The horsemen up the street come:
and, watching eagerly,
They saw the gallant riders
come home to Burgundy.
244
They came, the hale and hearty,
the wounded also came.
They heard the neighbours’ greetings,
and need not blush for shame.
The host rode forth rejoicing
to meet his guests again:
It was a joyful ending
to all his anxious pain.
245
He welcomed home his warriors,
and all the strangers too;—
To the great king ’twas fitting
not otherwise to do
Than graciously to tender
his thanks to those who came,
Who had in fight defended
the honour of his name.
246
Then Gunther asked for tidings,
that he to hear was fain,
Of those who had returned not—
their comrades who were slain.
But sixty men were missing,
and he had lost no more;—
For these they might cease mourning,
as for the brave of yore.
247
The men who were unwounded
brought many a battered shield,
And many a dinted helmet,
to Gunther from that field.
Before the royal palace
dismounted all the men,
And, with a shout of gladness,
were welcomed home again.
248
’Twas ordered then to billet
the warriors in the town.
The king bade that his guests be
well-treated, as his own.
The wounded must be cared for
and granted quiet rest;—
E’en for his foes his kindness
the king did manifest.
249
To Ludegast of Denmark he said:
“Be welcome here!
Though, through your fault, much damage
we have incurred, I fear;
But that will be repaid me,
if I have luck!” quoth he,
“May God reward my brave friends,
who fought so well for me.”
250
“And you do well to thank them,”
King Ludeger outspake,
“For never king before did
such high-born prisoners take!
The honourable usage
shall well rewarded be,
Which unto us, your foemen,
you’ve granted graciously.”
251
“I’ll let ye both,” cried Gunther,
“here, on the spot, go free,
If all the other pris’ners
swear to remain with me.
For these I will have pledges,
that they leave not my land
Without my given warrant.”
Thereon each gave his hand.
252
All were to rest and comfort
within the hostels brought;
They put to bed the wounded,
with kindly care and thought;
While to the hale and hearty
good wine and mead they gave.
A gayer time and gladder
the folk could never have.
253
The battered shields were taken
and put away in store.
Of blood-besprinkled saddles
were there enough and more;—
The men were told to hide them,
in case the women wept.
Still many a wayworn horseman
into the city crept.
254
For his guests the king provided
with kindness wonderful.
With strangers and indwellers
the land was very full.
Those who lay sorely wounded
he greatly cared for, too.
’Twas thus the good king humbled
his proud and haughty foe.
255
To all well skilled in leechcraft
no guerdon was denied.
Unstinted store of silver
and shining gold beside,
If they could heal the heroes,
who wounded were in fight:
To load his guests with presents
was eke this king’s delight.
256
If any there were minded
to journey home again,
They, in most friendly fashion,
were bidden to remain.
And then the king took counsel
how to reward his men,
Who had his will accomplished
with honour and with pain.
257
The warrior Gernot counselled:
“Let these now homeward ride!
In six weeks’ time we’ll bid them,
if nothing should betide,
Return with us to join in
a great festivity;
By then may they be healèd
who sorely wounded lie.”
258
For leave asked Siegfried likewise,
the lord of Netherland;
But when the royal Gunther
his wish did understand,
He lovingly entreated
his dear friend not to go;—
Though, but for Gunther’s sister,
he would have gone, I trow.
259
Though Siegfried was too wealthy
to care for the king’s pay,
Right well had he deserved it.
He was his friend alway,
And eke of all his kinsmen:
for had their eyes not seen
How by his strength in combat
the victory had been?
260
For love of the fair maiden
he thought he still would stay—
Perchance he yet might see her:
which came to pass one day,
Just as he most desirèd;—
he learnt to know the maid.
Thereafter to his country
right joyously he sped.
261
Each day in knightly contests
the host would prove his men:
Which willingly were practised
by many a proud young thane.
Then had he seats erected
by Worms, upon the strand,
For those whom he awaited
in his Burgundian land.
262
About this time, when well-nigh
the coming guests were due,
The beauteous Kriemhilda
heard what he had in view:
That he, with friends, was meaning
to keep high festival.
Then was a great commotion
among the fair dames all
263
As to the robes and ribands
’twere best for each to wear.
Unto the rich queen Uté
the tidings straight they bear
Of the proud stranger-warriors,
who now were on their way.
Then from her presses took she
rich clothes and raiment gay.
264
For love of her dear children
she had these garments made,
Wherewith were soon adornèd
full many a dame and maid,
And many a bold young hero
of the Burgundian land.
For many strangers, likewise,
rich clothes she did command.
Adventure V
How Siegfried First Saw Kriemhilda
265
One saw them daily riding
to Worms upon the Rhine,
The guests who to the revels
did joyously incline.
Those whom the love of Gunther
unto his kingdom brought,
Were freely offered horses,
and raiment richly wrought.
266
Seats, ready for all comers,
were well and duly made,
Fit for the best and highest—
as hath to us been said—
For two and thirty princes
at that festivity;
For which fair dames bedecked them
in merry rivalry.
267
Then busiest of the busy
was Giselher the lad.
For kinsmen and for strangers
a welcome kind he had,
Receiving them with Gernot;
and every knight and squire
Was greeted by these warriors,
as honour did require.
268
Full many a gilded saddle
to Worms these riders brought,
With richly chasèd bucklers,
and garments finely wrought;
They brought them to the Rhineland
to grace the festival;
And many of the wounded
were merry enough withal.
269
For those who on their pallets
lay wounded, in distress,
Must needs, though death were grievous,
forget its bitterness,
And all the sick and ailing,
must drive dull care away,
And join in the rejoicings
for this great holiday.
270
Was ever such gay living
and hospitality!
Delights, beyond all measure,
and boundless jollity
Were shared by all the people,
and found on every hand.
And there was joy and gladness
throughout King Gunther’s land.
271
’Twas on a Whitsun morning;
one saw them all go by,
All festively apparelled,
and mounted gallantly:
Five thousand men, and upwards,
to join the revels ride.
And many a pleasant contest
began on ev’ry side.
272
The host was not unmindful,
and well did understand
How heartily and truly
the prince of Netherland
Love-bound was to his sister,
whom yet he had not seen;—
A match for whom in beauty
no maiden yet had been.
273
Then to the king did Ortwein
the thane, his thought unfold:
“If you, with fullest honour,
this festival would hold,
You should allow our brave guests
our winsome maids to see
Who are, in truth, the glory
and pride of Burgundy.
274
“For where would man’s delight be,
and what could charm his life,
If there were no fair maidens,
and ne’er a comely wife?
Now, therefore, let your sister
before your guests appear.”
This was a pleasing counsel
to many a hero’s ear!
275
“Most gladly will I do this,”
replied the king, straightway,
And all who heard his answer
had merry hearts that day.
He sent to summon Uté,
and eke her daughter fair,
And bade them with their maidens
at once to court repair.
276
Then in their presses sought they
for all their garments gay,
And all the goodly raiment
that had been stored away;
The gold lace and the bracelets
that there to hand were laid;
And with all care bedecked her
full many a lovely maid.
277
And many a knight on that day
had younger gladly been,
That he might be of women
more favourably seen;
Instead whereof he’d care not
a kingdom rich to own!
And gladly did they gaze on
these damsels yet unknown!
278
Then the rich king commanded
that with Kriemhild should go
A hundred of his liegemen—
her service pledged unto.
Of his and her own kinsmen,
who carried sword in hand.
Such were the court-attendants
of the Burgundian land.
279
The rich Queen-mother Uté
with her fair daughter came,
And in her train brought with her
full many a comely dame—
Five score of them or over—
all royally arrayed.
Her daughter, too, was followed
by many a winsome maid.
280
From out the women’s quarters
one might have seen them go;
There was a goodly thronging
of heroes eke, I trow,
For this of all things eager,
if it perchance might be
That they should have the fortune
the noble maid to see.
281
Then came the lovely maiden:
even as morning-red
From sombre clouds outbreaking.
And many a sorrow fled
From him whose heart did hold her,
and eke so long had held:
When thus the winsome fair one
before him he beheld.
282
Upon her raiment glittered
full many a precious stone:
Her rosy blushing colour
with lovely radiance shone.
Though any would deny it
he could not but confess,
That on this earth he never
had seen more loveliness.
283
Just as the moon in brightness
excels the brightest stars,
And, suddenly outshining,
athwart the clouds appears;
So seemed she now, comparèd
with dames of fairest guise.
Then did our gallant hero
feel his bold spirits rise.
284
One saw before her marching
the chamberlains, in state—
But the high-mettled warriors
their order would not wait:
They thronged to where, in passing,
the fair maid they could see.
The while Sir Siegfried suffered
both joy and misery.
285
Sadly he thought within him:
“How can it ever be?
It is mere foolish dreaming
that I should marry thee!
Yet to be still a stranger!—
then were I better dead!”
And, thinking so, his colour
did change ’twixt white and red.
286
There stood the son of Siegmund;
as winsome did he look
As if his form were limnèd
upon a parchment-book,
By hand of cunning master;
and all men said of him,
That there was no man like him,
so fine and fair of limb.
287
They who the maid attended
now strove to clear the track,
And keep the throng from pressing;
and many a knight drew back.
And manly hearts beat quicker
for joy, in many a breast,
As passed each high-born lady
in splendid raiment drest.
288
Then outspake gallant Gernot,
the prince of Burgundy:
“To him, who such good service
so late hath done to thee,
Thou Gunther, dearest brother,
shouldst haste to do the same
In sight of all thy warriors:
I say it without shame.
289
“If thou would’st bid Sir Siegfried
unto my sister go,
That the fair maid may greet him,
much good might come, I trow.
She, who ne’er greeted warrior,
may by her greeting cheer;
And thus this goodly hero
be bounden to us here.”
290
Then some of the host’s kinsmen
went where the knight did stand
And thus spake to the warrior
who came from Netherland:
“The king his leave hath granted
that you to court should go,
His sister there shall greet you:
they would you honour show.”
291
At this the knight’s mood changèd
again from grave to gay;
And in his heart Love reignèd,
and grief had fled away—
For the fair Uté’s daughter
at last his eyes would see!
Right soon she greeted Siegfried,
with winning modesty.
292
When the high-couraged warrior
she saw before her there,
Her cheeks were lit with crimson:
then spake the maiden fair:
“Be welcome here, Sir Siegfried,
thou good and noble knight.”
And when he heard her greeting
his heart grew wondrous light.
293
He bent him low before her;
she took him by the hand.
How lover-like the knight did
by the fair maiden stand!
Each looked upon the other
with many a tender glance,
This hero and his lady—
and yet they looked askance.
294
Was that white hand, I wonder,
in lover’s fashion press’d?
In sign of tender wooing?
in sooth ’twas ne’er confess’d.
But scarce can I believe that
such chance had been let go;
For she her kindness to him
did very quickly show.
295
In the full bliss of summer,
and in the fair Maytide,
Within his heart could never,
again such joy abide
As now did fill his bosom;
the while he there did stand,
And her whom he desirèd
was holding hand in hand.
296
And many a warrior murmured:
“Ah, if it only were
My lot to walk beside her,
as I have seen him here,
Or at her side to lay me,
what bliss would mine have been!”
Never served hero better,
methinks, to win a queen.
297
Whate’er might be the country
the strangers call’d their own,
None had an eye for any
save for this pair alone.
And when they let her kiss him—
the goodly man and brave!—
In all this world he never
a greater joy could have.
298
Then rose the King of Denmark,
and suddenly did cry:
“To bring about this greeting
how many wounded lie!
Too well have I observed it—
and all by Siegfried’s hand;
Forefend him, God, from coming
again to Danish land!”
299
On one side and the other
they bade the folk make way
For beauteous lady Kriemhild.
Then saw one an array
Of valiant knights who churchward
did bear her company.
Then could her goodly gallant
no longer near her be;
300
For she went to the minster,
with all her dames beside.
So fair a sight and queenly
was she in all her pride,
That the high vows of many
whilom forgot to rise;
And many a hero feasted
his soul upon her eyes.
301
Hardly did Siegfried’s patience
last till the mass was done.
Yet might he thank his fortune
that he such grace had won,
That she to him inclinèd,
whom in his heart he bore:
Therefore it was but fitting
that he should love her more.
302
As she came from the minster,
which he had left before,
The gallant thane was bidden
to join the dame once more.
Then, first, began to thank him
the winsome maid, that he
Beyond all other warriors
had fought so gloriously.
303
“Now God reward you, Siegfried,”
thus spake the child so fair,
“Right well have you deservèd
that all the warriors here
Do love and serve you truly,
as they themselves avow.”
Right tenderly began he
to look on Kriemhild now.
304
“For ever will I serve you!”
declared the warrior,
“Henceforth my head I’ll never
lay down to rest before
Your least wish be accomplished,
if life be granted me;
All this, my lady Kriemhild,
for your dear sake shall be.”
305
Then, for the space of twelve days,
on each new dawning day,
One saw the lovely maiden
beside the knight alway,
As often as to court she
before her friends must go.
Unto the knight this service
did her great love allow.
306
All kinds of mirth and pleasure,
and mighty noise withal,
Were seen and heard forthcoming
daily from Gunther’s hall—
Without, and inside also—
from many a gallant man.
Sir Ortwein and Sir Hagen
right wondrous feats began.
307
Whatever games were started
these jocund heroes were
Always among the foremost,
a skilled and ready pair.
Whereby these warriors soon were
well known to every guest;
Of such kind were the jewels
that Gunther’s land possessed.
308
Those who had long lain wounded
one saw, at last, appear:
They too would share the pastimes,
would fence and throw the spear
Among the king’s retainers;
well-pleased to find at length
That they could do as others;
they had renewed their strength.
309
The host would have them treated
well, at his festal board,
Theirs was to be the best food.
Thus managed he to ward
The slightest breath of scandal,
which oft a king doth reach.
From guest to guest on went he,
with kindly words for each.
310
He said: “All ye, good warriors,
before ye ride away,
I pray ye take my presents:
’twas in my mind alway
To recompense your service;
my goods despise not ye:
I fain would share them with you;
this do I willingly.”
311
Then did the lords of Denmark
thus answer, out of hand:
“Before we ride hence, homewards
unto our fatherland,
We fain would have a treaty:
of peace we knights have need,
We’ve lost dear friends in plenty
who, through your knights, lie dead.”
312
King Ludegast of Denmark
was healed now of his wound,
And eke the Saxon leader
was once more whole and sound.
Albeit many dead men
they left in alien land.
Then went the royal Gunther
to where Siegfried did stand.
313
And to the warrior spake he:
“Advise what I shall do;
For early on the morrow
our foes intend to go,
And crave abiding pledges
of peace, from mine and me:
Now counsel me, thane Siegfried,
what seemeth good to thee?
314
“What ransom they have offered
thou shalt be truly told:
So much as mares five hundred
can carry of pure gold,
This will they give me gladly,
if I will set them free.”
Then Siegfried answered stoutly
“That would unworthy be!
315
“Free, and without a ransom
hence shouldst thou let them fare:
And that these noble warriors
henceforward may beware
How they come hither, riding
as foemen to our land,
Of this in full assurance
let both kings give their hand.”
316
“This counsel will I follow!”
So saying, forth they went.
A message to the foemen
was soon thereafter sent:
“The gold, that ye have offered,
doth no man care to keep,
While for the strife-worn warriors
at home their dear ones weep.”
317
Then many a shield with treasure
piled high they carried there:
Enough, although he weighed not,
for every friend to share;
Five hundred marks well-counted,
yea more, he gave to some.
This counsel to King Gunther
had from bold Gernot come.
318
Then took they leave, for all were
impatient to be gone;
But first, before Kriemhilda
the guests filed, one by one;
There sat dame Uté also,
the Queen, who bade “God speed”!
Never before were warriors
sped half so well, indeed.
319
The hostels were left empty
when they had ridden away.
Only at home remainèd
the king, in state array
With all his friends and kinsmen—
full many a noble knight.
These, day by day, were gladden’d,
by dame Kriemhilda’s sight.
320
Now Siegfried, the good hero,
did also sue for leave:
Not hoping more to win her,
to whom his heart did cleave.
The king o’erheard the saying
that he would fain away:
’Twas Giselher who urged him
his journey to delay.
321
“Now whither, noble Siegfried,
is it thy will to ride?
Stay rather, I beseech thee,
and with our warriors bide.
Remain with our King Gunther,
and with his men and me;—
Are there not here fair women,
whom thou hast leave to see?”
322
Then spake the stalwart Siegfried:
“So bide the steeds in stall!
For I have changed my purpose,
I will not ride at all.
And bear the bucklers hence too;—
I hoped to see my land,
But Giselher’s true friendship
I know not to withstand.”
323
Thus did the gallant hero
remain for friendship’s sake.
And in no other country
could he a sojourn make
That to his soul were sweeter;—
and so it hap’d that he
On every day thenceforward
did fair Kriemhilda see.
324
For her surpassing beauty
he was content to stay
And spend the days in pastimes,
which whiled the hours away.
Although her love constrained him,
it gave him grievous pain.
Through it the brave knight, later,
was miserably slain.
Adventure VI
How Gunther Went to Iceland After Brunhilda
325
Fresh rumours now were coming
from over Rhine: for there
As all the folk were saying
was many a maiden fair.
Of these was good King Gunther
now thinking one to woo,
And high his knightly ardour
rose, as this purpose grew.
326
There was a great queen, dwelling,
somewhere beyond the sea,
Whose like none had seen ever,
and ne’er again would see.
She was of matchless beauty,
and strong withal of make;—
She shot with ready warriors,
and made her love the stake.
327
A stone she hurl’d far from her,
then after it would spring;
He, who her love did covet,
must, without wavering,
Win three games in succession
from her, the high-born maid;—
And if he failed in any,
his head was forfeited.
328
Thus many a time and often
the maid was wont to do.
’Twas one day heard in Rhineland,
by a good knight and true,
Who turned his thoughts towards her,
and sought to win the dame,
Through whom full many a hero
to death foredoomèd came.
329
Upspake the Lord of Rhineland:
“I’ll go down to the sea,
And visit this Brunhilda,
howe’er it fare with me!
For love of her I’m ready
to venture limb and life:
I am content to lose them
if she be not my wife.”
330
“From that would I dissuade you!”
in answer Siegfried said,
“In sooth this queen hath customs
so terrible and dread—
That whosoever woos her
must pay a price too high;
Seek not to take this journey,
I counsel earnestly!”
331
“Now I would fain advise you,”
thus Hagen to him spake,
“To bid Siegfried go with you,
and half the burden take,
And share your risk and danger;
I counsel this in faith,
Since he such good acquaintance
with Brunhild’s customs hath.”
332
Quoth Gunther: “Wilt thou help me
in very truth, Siegfried,
To woo and win this fair one?
ah, if thou dost indeed
Get her for my betrothèd,
my own, my noble wife—
Then, for thy sake, I’ll venture
mine honour and my life!”
333
For answer gave him Siegfried,
the royal Siegmund’s son:
“Giv’st thou to me thy sister,
behold, it shall be done!
Give me the lovely Kriemhild,
the high and noble queen;
No guerdon for my labour,
save this I care to win.”
334
“That swear I to thee, Siegfried,”
cried Gunther “on thine hand!
And if the fair Brunhilda
doth come here to this land,
I’ll give my sister to thee,
to have and hold for wife:
So mayst thou, with thy fair one,
aye lead a joyous life.”
335
By solemn oath they swore it,
the noble warriors twain.
But they had toilsome labour,
and grief enough, and pain,
Before the high-born lady
home to the Rhine they brought.
The gallant knights’ achievement
must be with sorrow wrought.
336
Siegfried his hood of darkness,
Tarnhelm yclept, must take:
The same that the bold hero,
after hard fight, did make
His own, from a dwarf wrested,
whose name was Alberich.
The bold and mighty warriors
sped on their journey quick.
337
Whene’er the gallant Siegfried
the wondrous Tarnhelm wore,
A hidden strength was in him
he had not known before:
He had the strength of twelve men,
joined to his own, ’twas said;
And cunningly he plotted
to win the noble maid.
338
Now this same hood was fashion’d
in such a wondrous way
That any man who wore it
could carry out straightway
Whatever thing he wanted,
whilst no man could him see.
Therewith he won Brunhilda;
whence mickle woe had he.
339
“Now answer me,” thane Siegfried,
“ere yet our way begin,
How shall we, with due honour,
across the water win?
Should we not take our warriors
unto Brunhilda’s land?—
Full thirty thousand have I,
who soon may be to hand.”
340
“How many folk soever
we take there,” Siegfried said,
“This queen doth cherish customs
so terrible and dread,
That they will all fall victims
to her o’erweening mood.
I’ll give thee better counsel,
thou fearless knight and good.
341
“Let us, as plain knights-errant,
go sailing down the Rhine.
And I will name unto thee
the knights we’ll take of thine.
Besides us two, two others
shall go, none else at all:
So shall we win the lady,
whatever may befall.
342
“I one of these four comrades,
another shall be thou;
The third had best be Hagen,
we should do well enow.
And let the fourth be Dankwart,
he hath a dauntless hand;
A thousand others dare not
in fight us four withstand.”
343
“I would I had some knowledge,”
the king said—“verily,
Ere we from hither journey,
’twould much enhearten me—
In what apparel should we
before Brunhild appear;
What would be right and fitting?
that, Siegfried, would I hear.”
344
“Whatever be most handsome
is worn, I understand,
By ev’ry man, at all times,
in Queen Brunhilda’s land;
Therefore should we go finely
before this haughty dame—
That when men talk about us
we need not blush for shame.”
345
Then cried the good king, “Surely,
I will myself go ask
My own dear, gracious mother,
that she do set the task
To her fair maids, to make us
such garb, wherein array’d
We may appear with honour
before the royal maid.”
346
Then Hagen, knight of Tronjé,
in courtly fashion spake:
“Why trouble you your mother
with things to undertake?
Let your fair sister hear now
all that you have in mind.
Her aid, in this state journey,
you will of service find.”
347
So sent he to his sister;
saying, he fain would see
Her face, as would Sir Siegfried.
But, long ere this, had she
Put on her goodliest raiment;
and stood, so fair a maid,
I trow that at their coming
she was not much dismay’d!
348
Also her court-attendants
array’d were as was meet
When princes twain were coming;
and as she heard their feet,
Straight from her chair upstanding
right modestly she went
To greet the noble comers
with fitting compliment.
349
“Right welcome is my brother,
and his companion eke;
But fain would I have knowledge,”
thus did the maiden speak,
“What is your lordships’ pleasure
that ye at court appear?
With you two noble warriors
how stands it? let me hear.”
350
Then spake King Gunther: “Lady,
to you the truth I’ll tell:
Although we have high courage,
yet have we cares as well.
For we would go a-courting,
far in a foreign land,
And now, unto this journey,
fine raiment would command.”
351
“So sit you down, dear brother,”
bade the king’s daughter fair.
“And who may be the ladies,
for I would rightly hear,
Whom you would go a-wooing
in other ruler’s land?”
These favour’d knights the lady
did take now by the hand.
352
And with them straight returnèd
to where she sat afore.
Rich mattresses, I doubt not
were spread upon the floor,
With pictures fair embroidered,
set off with golden thread.
Then must they with the ladies
a pleasant time have had.
353
And friendly mutual glances,
and looks that were not loth,
Caused many a thought to waken
within the hearts of both.
He in his heart aye bore her,
dear as his very life;
And soon, by steadfast service,
he won her for his wife.
354
The rich king spake unto her:
“O dearest sister mine,
This thing that we have purposed
fails without help of thine.
In Queen Brunhilda’s country
some pleasure we desire;
And need, in ladies’ presence,
the goodliest attire.”
355
Then did the maiden answer:
“Belovèd brother mine,
Ready am I, at all times,
to serve, in need of thine;—
Of that thou mayst be certain:
it is Kriemhilda’s part.
Should any one deny thee
’twould vex her to the heart.
356
“Nor shouldst thou, noble hero,
beg of me anxiously—
Thou shouldst command my service,
in lordly style and free.
For whatsoever please thee,
for that I’m ready aye,
And gladly will I do it;”
the maiden sweet did say.
357
“ ’Tis our desire, dear sister,
in goodly garb to stand,
Which you may help provide us,
with your own noble hand:
So set your women working,
that all may be well done—
For we about this journey
will be gainsaid by none.”
358
Then spake again the maiden:
“Now mark what I shall say!
I have the silk already:
see that we get, straightway,
Some gems from off your bucklers:
we’ll work them on the cloth.”
Then Gunther and Sir Siegfried
obeyed her, nothing loth.
359
“And who may be the comrades,”
inquired the royal maid,
“Who shall to court go with you,
thus gorgeously arrayed?”
“I and three more,” he answered,
“and two my men will be,
Sir Dankwart and Sir Hagen;—
these go to court with me.
360
“And mark you well, dear lady,
and list to what I say!—
We four companions must have
enough for four days’ stay.
Three shifts of clothing daily,
of good stuff all of it,
That we Brunhilda’s country
without disgrace may quit.”
361
With kind farewells the heroes
soon after did depart.
Then, of her maidens, thirty,
well skilled in needle-art,
Did the young queen Kriemhilda
call from their room, in haste;
These all for suchlike labours
had wit beyond the rest!
362
Arabian samite was there,
white as new-fallen snow,
And Zazemang silks also—
so green doth clover grow—
Whereon they wrought the jewels;
fine clothes, in sooth, they were;
The peerless maid, Kriemhilda,
herself the cloth did shear.
363
Of foreign fish-skin made they
the linings, good and rare,
For stranger-folk to stare at—
as many as there were;
And these with silk were covered,
as then the mode did hold.
There might be many a marvel
of this bright raiment told.
364
From far Morocco’s borders,
and from the Libyan shore,
The very choicest samite,
that e’er enriched the store
Of any king soever—
this had they, and to spare.
Right plainly showed Kriemhilda
to whom she kindness bare!
365
Since they on this state journey
determined to set forth,
Plain ermine furs they reckoned
of insufficient worth.
So over them fur trimmings
of coal-black hue they set:
On high-days such like garments
brave knights right well befit.
366
Amidst Arabian gold-work
there glittered many a gem.
So careful were the women,
naught was too small for them.
In seven weeks the raiment
was all prepared aright,
And eke the weapons thereto
for every gallant knight.
367
When this was all made ready,
upon the banks of Rhine
Was diligently fashion’d
a little vessel, fine
And strong, which down the river
should bear them to the sea.
The noble maids by this time
were of their tasks weary.
368
’Twas told unto the warriors
that all things were to hand
That they were to take with them;—
all their apparel grand,
Such as they had desirèd;
it all was now complete:
So would they on the Rhine-bank
no longer stay their feet.
369
Therefore, to fetch their comrades,
a messenger was bade,
That they should come and look on
this raiment newly made;—
It might be, for the heroes,
too long, or else too small.
But ’twas of the right measure:
they thanked the ladies all.
370
For all who came and saw it
were bounden to confess,
In all the world they never
had seen more noble dress.
They might be proud such clothing
in any court to wear;—
Of finer knights’ apparel,
in sooth, knew no one there.
371
Thanks manifold and hearty
their judgment did receive.
And then these joyous warriors
desired to take their leave;—
This did the noble comrades
with knightly courtesy.
Bright eyes were then, with weeping,
all sad and watery.
372
She said: “My dearest brother,
you still have time to stay,
And woo some other woman,
’twould be the better way.
You would not then endanger
your body and your life:
Here might you find, much nearer,
as highly-born a wife!”
373
Her heart, I ween, foreboded
what, later, did befall:
As ev’ry word was spoken
they fell to weeping all.
The gold upon their bosoms
was tarnished with the tears
Which rainèd from their eyelids,
by reason of their fears.
374
Again she spake: “Sir Siegfried,
let me commend, I pray,
Unto your truth and kindness,
my brother dear alway;—
That no mischance befall him
in Queen Brunhilda’s land.”
The gallant hero swore it,
upon Kriemhilda’s hand.
375
The mighty thane thus answered:
“So long as I shall live,
You, to his safety, lady,
no anxious thought need give;
I safe and sound will bring him
home to the Rhine;” he said,
“That know now of a surety.”
The fair maid bow’d her head.
376
Their gilded shields were carried
straight down unto the shore,
And to the ship was taken
of clothing their whole store;
They bade men bring their horses,
they hasted to be gone.
Then was by beauteous women
much bitter weeping done.
377
There, standing, at the windows,
was many a lovely child;
A high wind fair was blowing—
the ship’s sail soon was fill’d.
The gallant band of heroes
on Rhine were floating free;
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“Who now shall skipper be?”
378
“That will I be!” cried Siegfried,
“for I can down the flood
Right well and safely steer you,
doubt not, ye heroes good;
The proper water-channels,
I well do understand.”
Then joyously they parted
from the Burgundian land.
379
Sir Siegfried took a boathook,
and stoutly did it grip,
And, leaning on it strongly,
from strand he shoved the ship;
The mighty man, King Gunther,
did likewise seize an oar,
And soon these worthy heroes
had cleared them from the shore.
380
They carried costly viands,
and plenty of good wine—
The best that had been vintaged
upon the banks of Rhine.
Their horses stood right firmly—
they had a well-found stall;—
Their vessel voyaged smoothly;
small ill did them befall.
381
Then they unfurl’d the sailcloths—
the stout sails, strained and tight—
And twenty miles they sailèd,
or ever it was night,
With a good wind to help them
down stream, toward the sea.
Their steadfast toil was later
those brave ones’ woe to be.
382
Upon the twelfth day morning,
as we have heard men say,
The wind had borne the vessel
far distant, and away
Toward Isenstein the fortress,
in Queen Brunhilda’s land:
To all of them, save Siegfried,
it was an unknown strand.
383
Now, when the royal Gunther
so many towers did see,
And eke so wide a marchland,
he spake, all suddenly:
“Tell me, my good friend Siegfried,
if it be known to thee,
Whose are these many castles,
and this fair land we see?”
384
Then answered Siegfried: “Truly
it is to me well known:
This people and this country
doth Queen Brunhilda own,
And Isenstein’s her fortress,
as you have heard me say;—
And many comely women
you well might see this day.
385
“I’ll give ye heroes counsel
all of one mind to be—
Agree in all your discourse—
so seemeth best to me.
If we to-day, as may be,
before Brunhilda go,
We shall need all our prudence
to deal with her, I trow.
386
“When we behold that fair one,
attended by her train,
One speech, and but one only,
ye heroes must maintain:
King Gunther is my chieftain,
and of his men I’m one;
Thereby what he hath purposed
shall all be duly done.”
387
They ready were to promise
whate’er he asked of them;
With all their pride o’erweening
none did his word contemn.
They vowed whate’er he wanted:
so better did they fare,
What time the royal Gunther
beheld Brunhilda fair.
388
“This not so much for thy sake,
I do,” Sir Siegfried said,
“As for love of thy sister—
the ever-beauteous maid!
She’s as my soul unto me,
and as my very life;
I’ll gladly do this service,
so her I win to wife!”
Adventure VII
How Gunther Won Brunhilda
389
Now, while all this was passing,
their ship had neared unto
The castle walls, so closely
that the king’s eyes could view
Above them, at the windows,
full many a winsome maid.
That he knew none amongst them
made Gunther passing sad.
390
Then questioned he Sir Siegfried,
his brave companion:
“Of all those lovely maidens,
dost thou in truth know none,
Who now are gazing downward
at us upon the flood?
Whoe’er their lord and master,
they be of noble blood.”
391
To him replied Sir Siegfried:
“Now look you, secretly,
Amidst the maids there standing,
and then confess to me
Which you would take among them,
if you thereto had might.”
“That will I do!” cried Gunther,
the bold and valiant knight.
392
“Yonder, within that window,
I see one of them stand
All in a snow-white garment;
she’s fairest of the band!
’Tis her mine eyes have chosen,
so fair she is to see:
Had I the power to wed her,
my wife she needs must be.”
393
“The judgment of thine eyesight
hath done for thee right well!
That is the noble Brunhild,
the maiden beautiful,
Whom all thine heart desireth,
thy senses, and thy mood.”
In all ways did her bearing
seem to King Gunther good.
394
The queen her beauteous maidens
did thereupon command
To leave the windows straightway:
they ought not there to stand,
A gazing-stock for strangers!
they readily obey’d.
And what the ladies next did
hath since to us been said:
395
They decked themselves for sake of
the visitors unknown,
As comely women ever
since days of old have done.
Then to the narrow windows
they quickly came again,
Whence they could see the heroes—
and gazed with might and main.
396
There were of them four only,
who came unto the land.
Bold Siegfried now was leading
a horse along the sand;
The comely dames beheld him,
across the window shelf:
Whilst Gunther thought with pride that
they gazed upon himself.
397
He held it by the bridle—
the shapely animal,
It was so sleek and handsome,
so big and strong withal—
Until the king had mounted,
and in the saddle sat.
Thus Siegfried did him service;
which he erelong forgat.
398
Then Siegfried fetched his own steed,
which in the ship did stay;
Such service had he rendered
but seldom till that day,
To stand at a man’s stirrup,
until he was astride!
The fair and noble ladies
this from their lattice spied.
399
These two high-mettled heroes—
to one ensample clad—
White chargers and white raiment
like snow new-fallen had,
Each matching with the other;
their solid bucklers bright
Shone, on the left hand hanging
of either goodly knight.
400
Bejewell’d were their saddles,
their saddle-bows were small;
So rode they in their glory,
before Brunhilda’s hall.
The bells upon their harness
were wrought of bright red gold,
They came unto that country
as bound on venture bold.
401
With spear-heads newly sharpened,
with swords well-wrought and keen,
Which hung down to the rowels
of these two goodly men;
Such weapons bore the bold ones,
with broad and sharp-edged blade.
’Twas all marked by Brunhilda,
the great and noble maid.
402
With them came also Dankwart,
and Hagen of Tronjé.
These warriors were apparell’d,
as ancient legends say,
Alike, in costly raiment
and raven-black of hue;
Fair were their shields and mighty,
and strong and broad thereto.
403
The jewels that adorned them
from India’s land were brought,
And glittered on their garments,
as these the sunshine caught.
Their little vessel left they
unguarded, on the flood;
So rode they to the castle,
these heroes brave and good.
404
Full six-and-eighty turrets
they saw within the wall,
Three palaces far-stretching,
and one fair, well-built hall,
Compact of precious marble,
as meadow-grass all green;
And here, amid her court-folk,
awaited them the queen.
405
The castle gate unlock’d was,
the doors were open thrown,
Brunhilda’s liegemen hasted
to meet these guests unknown,
To welcome these newcomers
unto their lady’s land;
They bade men take their horses
and bucklers from their hand.
406
A chamberlain said to them:
“Yield now your swords to us,
And eke your shining hauberks.”
“Nay, it shall not be thus!”
Cried Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
“These we ourselves will bear!”
Then Siegfried had to teach him
what were the customs there.
407
“The fashion in this castle,
as you must understand,
Is that no guest shall carry
a weapon in his hand.
So let them hence be taken:
in sooth, ’tis fairly meant.”
Then Hagen, Gunther’s liegeman,
did grudgingly consent.
408
Wine for the guests was order’d,
and lodgings good prepared.
And to and from the palace
swift-footed warriors fared—
All clad in princely raiment
they ever came and went;
And on the stranger-heroes
were wond’ring glances bent.
409
Then unto Queen Brunhilda
some one the news declared,
That certain unknown warriors
had suddenly appear’d,
In glorious apparel,
by ship across the flood.
Whereon began to question
the maiden fair and good.
410
“I would that someone told me,”
so spake the maiden queen,
“Who are these stranger-warriors,
that ne’er afore were seen,
And now stand in my castle,
with such a noble grace?
And for whose sake these heroes
have voyaged to this place?”
411
Then spake one of her people:
“Lady, I must avow
Not one of these same warriors
I e’er beheld till now;
But there is one among them
much like unto Siegfried:
You must give him good welcome,
that is in sooth my rede.
412
“The other his companion,
who is so praiseworthy,
If he the power had, either
some rich king he might be,
Or have the jurisdiction
o’er some wide princely lands:
One sees beside the others
how royally he stands.
413
“The third of these companions
he is of aspect grim,
Yet, mighty Queen, right comely
he seems, and fair of limb;
From those his rapid glances
that he around him throws,
His mien, if I mistake not,
a gruesome temper shows.
414
“The youngest knight among them
seems worthy of all praise;
As gentle as a maiden,
yet knightly are his ways.
How winsomely he stands there,
with what a high-born mien!
And yet, if he were thwarted,
we’d rue the hour, I ween.
415
“How blithe soe’er his bearing,
and beautiful his form,
There’s many a goodly woman—
an’ he began to storm—
That he could bring to weeping;
his body fashion’d is
To excel in manly virtues—
a brave, bold thane is this!”
416
Then spake the queen: “Now bring me
my raiment and my gear;—
And if the mighty Siegfried
to win my love is here,
And therefore to this land comes—
’tis like to cost his life!
In sooth, I do not fear him
enough to be his wife.”
417
Ere long, the fair Brunhilda
was fittingly array’d.
With her there came full many
a beauteous serving-maid—
A hundred, perhaps, or over—
attired in all their best.
These comely dames were eager
to see the stranger-guest.
418
With these there went, in order,
the thanes of Isenland,
The warriors of Brunhilda,
each with his sword in hand,
Five hundred men, or over;
whereat their hearts misgave.
Then from their seats uprose they,
the heroes bold and brave.
419
When first the Queen Brunhilda
perceived the knight Siegfried,
Ye would, perchance, be told of
the words the maiden said:
“Be welcome,” quoth she, “Siegfried,
here unto this our land.
What meaning hath your journey
I fain would understand?”
420
“I proffer, dame Brunhilda,
my hearty thankfulness,
That you have deigned to greet me,
most generous princess,
Before this noble warrior,
who stands beside me now;—
Seeing that he my lord is,
such grace I disavow!
421
“By birth he is of Rhineland;
and what shall I say more?
His love for thee ’tis only
that brings us to this shore.
My lord doth seek to wed thee,
whatever may befall;
Of this, in time, bethink thee:
he will not change at all.
422
“The name he bears is Gunther,
he is a mighty king.
If haply he may win thee,
he asks no other thing.
’Twas this good warrior bade me
upon this journey come:
An’ I had dared deny him,
I’d fain have stay’d at home.”
423
She spake: “Since he’s thy master,
and thou his vassal art,
I’ll stake a venture with him,
if he dare play his part,
And if he gain the mast’ry,
then will I be his wife;
But should I be the winner,
ye all do risk your life.”
424
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“O lady, let us see
This mighty game you play at;
before a victory
You score off my lord Gunther,
it will go hard enow!
For such a beauteous maiden
he’ll count to win, I trow.”
425
“The stone he must throw boldly,
then leap to where it lies;
Then hurl the javelin with me:
so be ye not unwise!
Who knows? each may be losing
his honour and his head!
You must bethink you therefore,”
the winsome fair one said.
426
On this, the gallant Siegfried
unto King Gunther went,
And bade him tell the princess
his purpose and intent;
He might be for the issue
without anxiety:
“I shall be there to shield you
with all my craft,” quoth he.
427
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“Most high and mighty queen!
Declare your task unto me;
and had it harder been,
For sake of your fair body
I everything would stake:
My very head I’d venture
you for my wife to take.”
428
As soon as Queen Brunhilda
his will and meaning knew,
She bade the games be hastened,
as seemed to her but due.
And ordered them to bring her
her wonted gear for fight,
A ruddy golden breastplate,
and buckler round and bright.
429
A silken fighting-doublet
drew over all the maid,
Such as, in closest combat,
would turn the sharpest blade;
Of Lybian stuff ’twas woven,
and it was deftly done;
A bright embroider’d trimming
upon the border shone.
430
Meantime the stranger-warriors
were eyed somewhat askance,
And Dankwart and Sir Hagen
ill brooked this arrogance.
And how the king would fare, too,
did weigh upon their mood.
They thought: “unto us warriors
our journey bodes no good.”
431
The while these things were doing,
Siegfried, the crafty one,
Had, unperceived of any,
back to the vessel gone,
And found his hood of darkness,
where hidden it had lain,
And swiftly slipped it on him:
thus he became unseen.
432
Then back again he hastened
to where the queen he found
Her fateful game arranging,
with many knights around.
Invisibly he joined them:
so cunningly ’twas done
That, midst the whole assembly,
he was discern’d by none.
433
The ring was marked out clearly
wherein the games should be;
In presence of bold warriors,
who came the sport to see.
Seven hundred men and over
one saw, who weapons bare:
Which of the two was winner
the heroes must declare.
434
Ere long appeared Brunhilda
in all her warlike gear,
As if she meant to conquer
all kingdoms far and near.
Above her silken vestment
was twisted golden twine:
One saw thereunder ever
her lovely colour shine.
435
And then came her attendants;
who in their hands did hold
A mighty round-rimmed buckler,
all wrought of ruddy gold,
With steel-like clasps upon it,
many, and broad, and bright;
And underneath its shelter
the lovely maid would fight.
436
The maiden’s shield-sustainer
a noble baldrick was,
Wherein were gems embroidered,
as green as e’er was grass;
Their ever-changing brightness
was mirror’d in the gold.
He who would win such lady
must needs be warrior bold!
437
Her shield beneath the bosses,
as we have heard declare,
Was three good spans in thickness;
and this the maid could bear.
With steel and gold inlayings
so richly ’twas beset,
Her chamberlains—four of them—
could scarcely carry it.
438
When now the sturdy Hagen
beheld this shield brought in,
The wrathful Lord of Tronjé
did thus to speak begin:
“How now, King Gunther? truly
we’re like to lose our life,
She, whom you would be wooing,
must be the devil’s wife!”
439
Hear more now of her raiment:
she had a wondrous store,
A warrior’s silken mantle
from Azagaug she wore—
A noble, costly garment;
from which the flash was seen,
Of many a splendid jewel
pertaining to the queen.
440
Then bore they to the lady—
and weighty ’twas, I trow—
A giant-spear well sharpened,
which she was wont to throw;
Most strong and monstrous was it,
and mighty too, and broad,
And with its keen twin-edges
right terribly it gored.
441
Of that spear’s weight, now hearken
and hear the wonderment:
Four and a half good measures
of metal to it went.
Three of Brunhilda’s liegemen
could scarce uphold its weight.
When noble Gunther saw it,
his courage did abate
442
And in his heart he pondered:
“What e’er will be the end?
If she be a hell-devil,
who can the matter mend?
Were I alive and safely
once more in Burgundy,
Here, rid of love and wooing,
she long might wait for me!”
443
Then outspake Hagen’s brother,
the valiant Dankwart,
“Alack that we did ever
on this state-journey start!
But knights we still are, surely,
and it were very shame
To perish in this country,
o’ermastered by a dame.
444
“I do regret right sorely
that e’er I saw this land!
Had but my brother Hagen
his weapon in his hand,
And I had mine! methinketh
they’d be a whit more mild,
With all their pride and boasting,
these vassals of Brunhild.
445
“For, know now of a surety,
each one of you I warn,
No oath of peace should bind me—
had I a thousand sworn.
Ere I fordone before me
my master dear shall see,
This maid her life shall forfeit,
how ever fair she be!”
446
“We, without let or hindrance,
could surely leave this land,”
Said Hagen, Dankwart’s brother,
“had we good swords in hand,
And eke the armour on us
that we in battle need;
Then would this haughty woman
soon change her tone indeed!”
447
Full well the noble maiden
heard what the warrior said;
With smiling mouth, half-turning,
she o’er her shoulder bade:
“Thinks he himself so valiant?
bring them their armour then,
And let these heroes handle
their keen-edged swords again.”
448
When they received their weapons,
at the proud maid’s command,
For joy did Dankwart redden
to hold his sword in hand:
“Now play your games, and welcome!”
shouted the fearless thane,
“Gunther need fear no danger,
we have our swords again!”
449
The strength of Queen Brunhilda
it was a fearsome thing;
They brought her for the contest
a stone into the ring—
A monstrous one and heavy,
so mighty, and so round,
Twelve stalwart heroes scarcely
could heave it from the ground.
450
Whene’er she threw the javelin
she next would hurl this stone.
Then did the stout Burgundians
within their spirit groan:
“God help us!” cried Sir Hagen,
“what bride our king hath woo’d!
Hell were her proper sojourn,
she’s of the Devil’s brood!”
451
Around her snow-white arms she
began her sleeves to wind,
And on her hand she fastened
the buckler to her mind;
Then high she poised her javelin;
and so began the fight.
Gunther, and Siegfried likewise,
did dread Brunhilda’s spite.
452
And were it not for Siegfried,
who came unto his aid,
The king’s life had been forfeit
unto the doughty maid.
The knight, unseen, approach’d him,
and twitch’d him by the hand;
But Gunther quail’d: his cunning
he did not understand.
453
“What was it that did touch me?”
the bold man thought, and he
Look’d round and sought on all sides,
but not a soul could see.
A voice said: “It is Siegfried,
’tis I, your trusty friend,
As to this queen, I pray you,
let fear be at an end.”
454
He said: “Unhand the buckler,
and let me carry it,
And what thou hear’st me tell thee,
mark well with all thy wit:
Thine must be all the gestures,
but I will do each deed.”
When Gunther understood him
his heart grew light indeed.
455
“See thou conceal my cunning,
and tell no man thereof:
The queen will little glory
win from thee, though she scoff,
And though it be her purpose
to add unto her fame:
See how she stands before thee,
fearless, the noble dame!”
456
With all her strength of body,
her spear the glorious maid
Against a new shield hurlèd—
’twas broad and stoutly made—
Which on his arm was bearing
the son of Siegelind;
Bright fire-sparks from the steel flew,
as driven by the wind.
457
The blade of her stout lance-head
clean through his shield did crash,
And from his close-ring’d hauberk
the fire was seen to flash.
The shock of the encounter
so drave the stalwart men,
That, saving for the Tarnhelm,
they both had there been slain
458
Out of the mouth of Siegfried,
the bold knight, gushed the blood;
But soon again upsprang he:
then gripped the hero good
The spear which she had hurlèd,
that thro’ his buckler went,
And back it flew upon her,
by Siegfried’s strong hand sent.
459
He thought: “I will not shoot her,
this maid who is so fair!”
And so he turned behind him
the sharp head of the spear,
And with the shaft he smote her
upon her vest of steel;
So that the blow re-echoed
that his stout hand did deal.
460
The fire broke from her armour,
as driven by the wind;
Hard were the spear-thrusts dealt by
the son of Siegelind!
So much King Gunther never
had done with his own hand.
With all her strength, the maiden
such blows could not withstand.
461
The beauteous Brunhilda,
how soon she up did bound!
“I thank thee, noble Gunther,
thy shot its mark hath found!”
She thought that he had done it
by his own strength alone;—
But no, there slipt behind him
a far more mighty one.
462
Away she sped full swiftly,
and wrathful was her mood;
The stone aloft she lifted—
this noble maid and good—
Then from her hand she hurled it
with all her might and main,
And after it she leapt while
her armour rang again.
463
The stone fell twelve good arms’ lengths
beyond her standing-place;
But further yet the maid sprang,
and cleared the stone a pace.
Then came the noble Siegfried
to where the stone did lie:
’Twas Gunther that did lift it,
’twas Siegfried let it fly.
464
So bold a man was Siegfried,
so mighty and so tall,
He threw the stone still further,
and leapt beyond its fall.
His subtle arts had given
such wondrous power of limb,
That, in the leap, King Gunther,
he bore along with him.
465
Thus was the leaping over,
and hurling of the stone;
And they who looked saw no one,
save Gunther there alone.
The beauteous Brunhilda
all red with wrath became:
For Siegfried had prevented
King Gunther’s death and shame.
466
Unto her court-folk turning,
she loudly spake, as she,
Across the ring, the hero
all safe and sound did see:
“Come hither, quick, my kinsmen,
and my good lieges all,
Ye must now to King Gunther
be underlings and thrall!”
467
Then laid these stalwart warriors
their weapons from their hand
At Gunther’s feet, the rich king
from the Burgundian land;
Then bent to do him homage
full many a dauntless knight;—
They thought that he the contest
had won by his own might.
468
He gave her gentle greeting,
for he was courtly bred.
Then by the hand she took him,
that famous maid, and said:
She would henceforth allow him
the rule and power to hold.
Right glad thereat was Hagen,
the warrior brave and bold.
469
She bade the noble hero
along with her to go
Into the wide-room’d palace;
which being done also,
More fittingly was service
paid to the noble knight.
Dankwart and Hagen glad were
to see such pleasant sight.
470
Meanwhile, the ready Siegfried
wisely his plans did lay:
He took the hood of darkness
and hid it safe away.
Then the great hall he entered,
where many ladies sat,
And fell to question Gunther,
and artfully did that:
471
“Wherefore, my lord, delay you?
when doth the game begin
At which the queen so often
hath challenged you to win?
Let us behold and quickly
in what wise it is done!”
As though he knew naught of it
behaved the crafty one.
472
“How can it e’er have happened,”
thereon inquired the queen,
“That you, most noble Siegfried,
naught of the game have seen,
Wherein I have been worsted
by mighty Gunther’s hand?”
Then answered her Sir Hagen
of the Burgundian land.
473
He spake: “Yourself, O lady,
did much disturb our mood;
So to the ship departed
Siegfried, the hero good,
What time our lord of Rhineland
did win the game from you:
Therefore he knows naught of it,”
said Gunther’s liegeman true.
474
“Now welcome are these tidings,”
quoth warrior Siegfried,
“That thus your pride hath fallen
doth please me well, indeed,
That some one there is living
who may your master be!
Now must you, noble maiden,
go with us o’er the sea.”
475
Then spake the noble fair one:
“This may not yet befall:
My kinsmen first must hear it,
and my good liegemen all;
I may not thus so lightly
desert my land, I trow;
My chief friends must be sent there,
ere I myself shall go.”
476
Then sent she heralds riding
here, there and everywhere,
To bid her friends and kinsmen,
and lieges all repair
To Isenstein the fortress,
nor would she take excuse;
And bade that costly raiment
be given for their use.
477
So daily came they riding,
from early hours till late
Unto Brunhilda’s castle,
like to an army great.
“Now, by my faith!” cried Hagen,
“see now what we have done!
With fair Brunhilda’s liegemen
we’ll trouble have anon.
478
“While thus in power and numbers
they throng throughout the land,
What is the queen’s intention
we cannot understand:
What if she be against us
so wroth that we be lost?
The noble maiden surely
was born to our great cost!”
479
Then spake the sturdy Siegfried:
“All this will I forestall;
The danger you are dreading
I will not let befall.
I must go hence, and succour
bring quickly to this shore—
A band of chosen warriors
ne’er known to you before.
480
“Ye must not seek to find me,
I go across the sea;
May God meanwhile preserve you
from all indignity!
I’ll come back quickly, bringing
a thousand men with me,
The very best of warriors
that ever one could see.”
481
“Be not too long gone from us,”
the king in answer said:
“In this our need we shall be
right glad to have your aid.”
Said he: “I’ll come back to you,
ere many days be spent;
And you must tell the queen that
by you I have been sent.”
Adventure VIII
How Siegfried Went to Fetch the Nibelungs
482
So thence went Siegfried unto
the haven on the strand,
Clad in his hood of darkness,
to where a boat did stand.
Therein he stood, all hidden,
this son of Siegmund brave;—
He steered it quickly seaward,
as ’twere the wind that drave.
483
Though no one saw the steersman,
fast sped the bark along,
Urged by the strength of Siegfried—
in sooth his arms were strong.
Men thought that she was driven
by some strange, mighty wind:
No, it was Siegfried drave her,
the son of fair Sieglind.
484
When he a day had voyaged,
and likewise through a night,
He came unto a country,
by dint of main and might;—
From one end to the other
a hundred leagues or more,
The Niblung land, where kept he
the mighty hoard in store.
485
Then, all alone, the hero
steered to an eyot broad,
And ran his skiff alongshore
and left her safely moor’d.
Then climbed he to a mountain,
on which a castle stood,
And, like a wayworn traveller,
for shelter sought and food.
486
So came he to the gateway,
which, locked, before him stood—
They guarded well their honour,
as folk at this day would.
Then straight he fell a-knocking,
like any man unknown.
The gate was kept well guarded:
he saw within it soon
487
A monstrous giant warder,
who sentinel did stand,
And kept at all times ready
his weapons close at hand.
He called: “Who cometh knocking
so loudly at the door?”
Then answer’d the bold Siegfried—
but changed his voice therefore—
488
And said: “I am a warrior;
undo me now the gate,
Ere I arouse to anger
some one, though it be late,
Who rather would sleep softly
and in his chamber bide.”
It anger’d the gate-keeper
that Siegfried thus replied.
489
Soon had the doughty giant
girded his armour on,
Set on his head his helmet,
and quickly seized upon
And swung aloft his buckler,
and opened wide the gate:
How straightly then on Siegfried
he rush’d, with scowl of hate!
490
“How had he dared awaken
so many a gallant man?”
And straight upon the question
his hand to smite began.
The noble guest prepared him
a bold defence to make—
But, at the porter’s onset,
his very shield-clasps brake,
491
Smashed by a bar of iron;
the knight was sore distrest,
And somewhat was he fearful
that death would end his quest—
Seeing the huge gate-keeper
did smite so sturdily;
Which yet his master Siegfried
was not ill-pleased to see.
492
So mighty was their combat
that all the castle rang.
Throughout the halls of Niblung
men heard the crash and clang.
At last he threw the giant,
and bound him foot and hand;
The tidings soon spread over
the whole of Niblung-land.
493
The noise of fierce strife sounded
deep through the mountain side,
Where Alberich the bold one—
a wild dwarf—did abide:
With speed he seized his weapons,
and ran to where he found
This brave and noble stranger,
as he the giant bound.
494
A fierce wight was this Albrich,
of strength he had good store;
A helmet and a hauberk
he on his body wore;
A weighty whip, gold-handled,
he carried in his hand:
With all his swiftness ran he
to where Siegfried did stand.
495
Seven knots, both hard and heavy,
hung down in front of it,
With which the bold man’s buckler
so ruthlessly he hit—
As in his hand he held it—
that it in pieces fell.
Then was the goodly stranger
in fear for life as well.
496
The shield, that now was broken,
he from his hand did throw,
And thrust into its scabbard
his sword—’twas long enow.—
His treasurer he would not,
an he could help it, slay:
His breeding he forgat not,
as was his righteous way.
497
With his strong hands for weapons
at Alberich he ran,
And by the beard he gripp’d him,
that old and grizzly man!
So ruthlessly he pull’d it,
that loud the old man cried:
The grip of the young hero
could Albrich ill abide.
498
Loud was the bold dwarf’s outcry:
“I prithee now, have done;
An I could be the liegeman
of any knight, save one
To whom I have sworn fealty
to be his vassal aye—
Rather than die, I’d serve thee!”
the crafty one did say.
499
But Alberich was bound as
the giant had been bound,
And by the strength of Siegfried
much pain and trouble found.
The dwarf began to question:
“How are you call’d?” quoth he,
He said: “My name is Siegfried:
I should be known to thee!”
500
“That is a goodly hearing!”
said Alberich the dwarf.
“Now know I of a surety
what metal you are of,
And know you have good reason
to lord it in the land.
If you my life will leave me,
I’ll do what you command.”
501
Thus spake the hero Siegfried:
“Then must thou straightway go
And bring me of the warriors
the best we have, I trow;
Of Nibelungs a thousand
I fain would here behold.”
But wherefore these he wanted
that was to no man told.
502
Of Albrich and the giant
the fetters he unbound.
Then Alberich ran quickly
to where the knights he found.
The Nibelungs he wakened
from sleep right cautiously,
And said: “Up now, ye heroes!
to Siegfried hasten ye!”
503
Then sprang they from their couches
all ready at his call—
A thousand active warriors
equipp’d stood in the hall.
So went they unto Siegfried,
who by himself did stand,
And fairly did he greet them—
some knelt to kiss his hand.
504
They lit full many a taper,
pure wine for him they pour’d.
He thank’d them all for coming
so promptly at his word.
Then spake he: “Ye must yonder
with me across the flood!”
For this he found them ready,
those heroes bold and good.
505
Full thirty hundred warriors
had come at his behest:
From out their numbers took he
a thousand of the best.
To these were brought their helmets,
and all their gear to hand—
Because he fain would lead them
unto Brunhilda’s land.
506
He spake: “Ye good knights, hearken
to that which now I say:
Your raiment should at court be
exceeding rich and gay—
For many a lovely woman
will look on us, I trow;
So make your bodies handsome
with good clothes ere we go.”
507
All on a morning early
the bold knights rode away.
What gallant comrades Siegfried
had got himself that day!
They all had good war-horses,
and garments rich and grand:
With knightly mien and bearing
they came to Brunhild’s land.
508
Upon the turrets standing
was many a winsome maid.
Then spake the queen: “Doth any
know who be these,” she said,
“Whom I see sailing hither
from o’er the sea so far?
Their sails be richly woven—
whiter than snow they are.”
509
And the Rhine-king made answer:
“My warriors are they,
Whom I did on the journey
bid near at hand to stay.
I sent to fetch them, lady,
and here they come, I see.”
Whereon the noble strangers
were eyed all wond’ringly.
510
For plainly saw they Siegfried
upon the foredeck stand,
Arrayed in costly raiment,
with all his warrior-band.
Then said the queen: “Now must you,
my Lord King, counsel me:
Shall these new guests be welcomed?
or shall I let them be?”
511
He spake: “Without the palace
to meet them you should go,
As if we saw them gladly,
that they may take it so.”
Then did the queen according
unto the king’s behest;—
Though, in her greeting, Siegfried
she sever’d from the rest.
512
A lodging was found for them,
their goods were put in store.
And now so many strangers
had landed on that shore,
That great the throng of folk was,
whichever way one went.
The knights on sailing homewards
to Burgundy were bent.
513
Then spake the Queen Brunhilda:
“Right thankful should I be
To him who could my silver
and gold divide for me
Between my guests and Gunther’s;
an ample store I have.”
Then Dankwart said:—the liegeman
of Giselher the brave—
514
“Most noble Queen and Lady,
let me now have the key.
I trow I can divide it:
if shame should fall on me,
So let it be mine only.”
Thus spake the doughty thane.
That he a gentle knight was,
was from his bearing plain.
515
As soon as Hagen’s brother
the key had at command,
So many gifts and costly
dispensed the hero’s hand:
To those who one mark needed,
such bounty did he give,
That all the poorest, henceforth,
in comfort well might live.
516
Pound pieces by the hundred
he, without reckoning, gave.
In clothing rich, full many
that royal hall did leave
Who ne’er such splendid raiment
before that time had worn.
This vexed the queen right sorely,
it was not to be borne!
517
She spake, in her vexation:
“Sir King, it seems to me
This chamberlain of yours is
with all my goods so free
He soon will leave me nothing:
he throws my gold away!
I shall be aye beholden
to him who this can stay.
518
Such rich gifts doth he lavish,
the thane must sure believe
I’ve sent for Death to take me:
but I would longer live!
Whate’er my father left me
I trow I well can spend.
On such a spendthrift treasurer
did never queen depend!”
519
Then Hagen spake of Tronjé:
“Fair lady, have no fear!
The king of the Rhine river
hath gold enough, and gear
To lavish just as freely;
and well may we forego
To take Brunhilda’s treasure
when hence we homeward go.”
520
“Nay, for mine own sake, hear me,”
the queen said, “for I will
Take with me twenty coffers,
which I with gold will fill
And silken stuffs, which also
I’ll give with mine own hand,
When we come over yonder
unto King Gunther’s land.”
521
With precious stones and jewels
they did her coffers lade;
Her own lords of the chamber
to help therewith she bade:
For she would put no trust in
the men of Giselher.
Gunther, therefore, and Hagen
began to laugh at her.
522
Then spake the Queen Brunhilda:
“To whom leave I my land?
That first must be determined
by thine and mine own hand.”
The noble king made answer:
“Let him forthwith appear
Who best thereto would please you—
we’ll leave him steward here.”
523
One of her noblest kinsmen
the lady to her bade,
(It was her mother’s brother)
to him the maiden said:
“To you be now entrusted
my castles and the land,
Until they come directly
under King Gunther’s hand.”
524
Then did she of her people
choose twenty hundred men,
Who with her to the Rhineland
must make the voyage then—
Beside the thousand warriors
who came from Niblung land.
Then all to start made ready:
they rode down to the strand.
525
Of women six and eighty
along with her she took,
And eke a hundred maidens,
who comely were in look.
Then they delay’d no longer—
they wearied to be gone;
But those they left behind them,
these wept, ay, many a one!
526
With seemly grace the lady
fared from her fatherland;
She kissed her nearest kinsmen,
who stood on either hand.
With kindliest leave-takings
they came unto the shore;—
To her forefathers’ country
the lady came no more!
527
One heard of games of all kinds
to pass the time away
And make the journey shorter:
a hundred pastimes gay.
They had, too, for their voyage
a right good sailing wind.
With merriment and laughter
they left their land behind.
528
Not once upon the journey
did she embrace her lord:
Until they reached his palace
their pleasure was defer’d.
At Worms they, in the castle,
their wedding feast would hold;
Where they, ere long, with gladness
came with their heroes bold.
Adventure IX
How Siegfried Was Sent to Worms
529
When they nine days had travel’d
upon their homeward way,
Spake Hagen, lord of Tronjé:
“Now hark to what I say!
We yet have sent no tidings
to Worms upon the Rhine:
Your heralds should be, surely,
in Burgundy long syne.”
530
King Gunther made him answer:
“Lo, what you say is right,
And for this errand, surely
there is no better knight
Than you yourself, friend Hagen;
so ride now to my land:
Our journey no one better
can make them understand.”
531
Whereto made answer Hagen:
“Small use should I be there!—
Let me look to the cabin,
whilst on the flood we fare:
I’ll stay beside the women,
and to their gear attend,
Until we bring them safely
into Burgundian land.
532
“Bid Siegfried rather do it,
and him your envoy make;—
His mighty strength will aid him,
the task to overtake.
Should he decline the going,
you must, with kindliness,
For love of your fair sister,
the journey on him press.”
533
He sent to fetch the warrior,
who came at his command.
Quoth Gunther: “Since we’re nearing
our home in mine own land,
I ought to send a message
unto my sister dear,
And eke unto my mother,
that we the Rhine draw near.
534
“This ask I of thee, Siegfried:
the favour grant, I pray,
That I may ever thank thee,”
the warrior good did say.
But Siegfried did withstand him—
he was so bold a man!
Until King Gunther sorely
to plead with him began.
535
“To ride thou shouldst be willing,
for my sake,” Gunther said,
“And likewise for Kriemhilda’s,
the beautiful young maid;—
That we may owe thee service,
the noble maid and I.”
When Siegfried heard that saying
he could no more deny.
536
“Whate’er thou wilt command me,
I cannot say thee nay!
For love of that fair maiden
I’ll do what thou dost say.
How could I aught deny her,
who owns my heart alone?
For her sake that thou askest
is all as good as done.”
537
“Go then and tell my mother,
Uté, the noble queen,
That we anent this journey
in joyous mood have been;
And let the kings, my brothers,
know each how we did fare;
And all our friends must also
the happy tidings hear.
538
“And from my beauteous sister,
I pray thee naught reserve;
But say that I and Brunhild
will her right gladly serve.
And tell unto the court-folk
and all my serving-men,
That what my heart had yearn’d for,
full well did I attain!
539
“And tell to gallant Ortwein,
that nephew dear of mine,
That he have seats erected
by Worms upon the Rhine.
And all my other kinsmen,
they also should be told
That I, with Queen Brunhilda,
high festival will hold.
540
“And tell unto my sister
(as soon as she hath learn’d
How, with my guests so shortly
I shall be home return’d)
That she to my betroth’d one
a welcome good must give:—
So shall I to Kriemhilda
for aye beholden live.”
541
Then did the noble Siegfried
a courteous farewell
Take of the Lady Brunhild,
as did beseem him well—
And of her courtiers likewise;
then to the Rhine rode he.
No messenger were better
in all the world than he.
542
With four and twenty horsemen
he into Worms did ride.
“Without the king he cometh!”
was heard on every side;
And all the folk lamented,
and stirr’d were with the dread
Lest in that foreign country
they’d left their master dead!
543
They from their steeds dismounted:
right happy was their mood;
And Giselher hasten’d to them,
the youthful king and good,
And eke his brother Gernot:
how eagerly spake he,
When he the kingly Gunther
did not with Siegfried see!
544
“Be welcome, Siegfried,” cried he,
“but, pray you let me know
Where you have left my brother,
who forth with you did go?
If Queen Brunhilda’s prowess
have robbed us of our king,
Methinks your high-aim’d wooing
hath been an evil thing!”
545
“Forego your fears!” quoth Siegfried,
“my noble comrade sends
His loyal love and greeting
to you and all his friends.
In rare good health I left him:
I came at his command
To bring you, as his envoy,
tidings to this your land.
546
“You must see to it quickly,
however it may be,
That I the good queen-mother
and your fair sister see;—
For they must hear the message,
which I was bade to tell,
From Gunther and Brunhilda:
with both of whom ’tis well.”
547
Then Giselher the lad said:
“Go then to her you’ve won,
Since for my sister’s favour,
such service you have done!
Great trouble doth she suffer
about my brother’s fate.
The maid will see you gladly,
I’ll warrant me of that!”
548
The noble Siegfried answer’d:
“An I can serve the maid,
Right faithfully and gladly
that service shall be paid.
Now who will tell these ladies
that them I fain would see?”
’Twas Giselher the comely
his messenger would be.
549
Swift Giselher the tidings
unto his mother told,
And eke unto his sister,
when he did them behold:
“To us the hero Siegfried
of Netherland hath come;
Him hath my brother Gunther
here to the Rhine sent home.
550
“He bringeth us full tidings
of how the king doth fare.
Now must ye give permission
that he to court repair;
From Iceland brings he hither
a true report, I trow.”—
Yet soon these noble ladies
much sorrow were to know.
551
To get their robes they hasten’d,
and did themselves array;
And then they summon’d Siegfried
to come to court straightway—
Which did he, willing-hearted,
too happy her to see:
The noble maid Kriemhilda
spake to him graciously.
552
“Be welcome, my lord Siegfried,
thou worthy knight!” she cried;
“Where doth my brother Gunther,
the noble king, abide?
Of him, by Brunhild’s prowess,
I ween we are forlorn!
O woe is me, poor maiden,
that ever I was born!”
553
Then spake the gallant hero:
“Now pay me herald’s fee!
For know, O beauteous ladies,
no need to weep have ye.
In lusty health I left him,
of that ye may be sure;—
To tell you both these tidings
he sent me on before.
554
“They send to you their duty—
he and that bride of his—
With all true love and kindness,
most noble queen; it is
High time to leave off weeping—
for they will soon be here!”
For many a day she had not
heard tidings half so dear.
555
Then with her snow-white kerchief
she wiped her lovely eyes
That were all wet with weeping;
and in her gracious wise
Began to thank the bearer
for the good news he brought.
And so her grief and sorrow
were turn’d to pleasant thought.
556
She bade him to be seated,
whereof right glad was he.
Then spake the lovesome maiden:
“Rejoicèd should I be,
Could I for herald’s guerdon
give all my gold away!
Too rich for such meed are you—
I’ll be your debtor aye.”
557
Said he: “If for my portion
I thirty kingdoms had,
I would, by your hands given,
of any gift be glad!”
“Well!” said the gracious lady,
“it shall be given to you.”
Her chamberlain was bidden
to fetch the herald’s due.
558
Full four-and-twenty buckles,
set with bright stones and good,
She gave him for his guerdon.
And yet the hero’s mood
Allowed him not to keep them;—
he handed them around
Unto her nearest ladies
that in the room he found.
559
Her mother gave him greeting,
in kind and courtly way.
“I have yet more to tell you,”
the valiant man did say,
“Of what the king requireth
when to the Rhine comes he;—
If, lady, you will grant it,
he’ll aye beholden be.
560
“The noble guests he bringeth—
I heard him this desire—
He wishes you to welcome;
and eke he doth require
That you ride forth to meet him,
outside Worms, on the strand;
This doth the king, at your hands,
in all good faith demand.”
561
Then spake the lovely lady:
“Ready am I alway
Howe’er I can to serve him;
I cannot say him nay;
All shall in loyal kindness,
as he desires, be done.”
Whereat her cheek, for gladness,
a heighten’d colour won.
562
No prince’s herald ever
a better welcome had;
And had she dared to kiss him
she would have been right glad.
How winsomely the gallant
then from the dames withdrew!
As noble Siegfried counsel’d
did the Burgundians do.
563
Sir Sindold and Sir Hunold,
and eke Rumold the thane,
To whom the charge was given,
must work with might and main
To have the seats made ready,
by Worms upon the sands,
One saw the royal stewards
there working with their hands!
564
Ortwein and Gere would not
that aught be left undone.
They sent unto their kinsfolk
on all sides, every one;
They told them of the wedding
which was about to be.
The beauteous maids adorn’d them
for the festivity.
565
The palace was made splendid,
and deck’d was ev’ry wall
In honour of the guest-folk.
King Gunther’s royal hall
Was all right well upholstered
by many a foreign man.
And so this mighty wedding
right merrily began.
566
Then all along the highways
throughout the countryside
Were seen the three kings’ kinsmen,
who bidden were to ride
And wait the guests’ arrival,
who soon were to appear.
While from the stores was taken
abundance of rich gear.
567
Erelong was spread the rumour
that certain folk had seen
Brunhilda’s friends approaching;
at which there did begin
Great stir among the people
in the Burgundian land.
Ay me! what gallant warriors
were seen on either hand!
568
Then spake the fair Kriemhilda:
“Ye maids attending me,
Who would at this reception
fain bear me company,
Go, seek from out my presses
the richest robes and best:
That thereby praise and honour
we gain from every guest.”
569
The warriors came shortly—
who ordered to be brought
The saddles nobly-fashioned,
with finest gold inwrought,
On which should ride the ladies,
at Worms upon the Rhine.
One never saw horse-trappings
more fitting or more fine.
570
Ha! what a golden gleaming
from these gay palfreys shone,
And how the bridles sparkled
with many a precious stone!
The footstools eke were golden,
on carpets bright and good
Placed for the ladies’ mounting:
right joyous was their mood.
571
The women’s mares were saddled,
and in the court did stay
For the young maids of honour—
as I erewhile did say.
Small saddle-bows and silken
one saw these palfreys bear:
The finest silk, I warrant,
of which you e’er could hear.
572
Then six-and-eighty matrons
out of the palace went,
And on their heads were wimples.
Towards Kriemhilda bent
Each beauteous dame her footsteps,
in garments bright array’d;
And no less well apparell’d,
came many a comely maid.
573
In number four-and-fifty,
damsels of Burgundy,
The best they were and fairest
that ever eye could see;
One saw their flaxen tresses,
with bands of riband bright.
What Gunther had desirèd
was done with zeal aright.
574
The richest stuffs then wore they,
the best one e’er could find,
Before the stranger-warriors;
good clothes of many a kind—
So that each sev’ral beauty
might have a setting fit.
Whoso were discontented
must be of little wit.
575
Of sable and of ermine
was many a costume there,
And many an arm, and hand too,
were made to seem more fair
With buckles and with bracelets
on the silk stuffs they wore.
Should any try to tell you,
his task would ne’er be o’er.
576
With many a fine-wrought girdle—
so rich, and long, and gay,
Hanging o’er shining raiment—
the women’s hands did play.
Their skirts of Ferrandine were,
and stuff of Araby.
Among those noble maidens
was gladsomeness and glee.
577
In stomacher bejewell’d
was many a maiden fair
Most winsomely enlacèd.
And sad indeed it were
Did not her bright complexion
outshine her dress in hue.
No other king had ever
so fair a retinue.
578
As now those lovely ladies
in full attire were seen,
The knights who should escort them
appear’d upon the scene.
High-couraged warriors were they,
of mighty strength and craft;
And each, beside his buckler,
did bear an ashen shaft.
Adventure X
How Brunhilda Was Received at Worms
579
Now, on the further Rhine-bank,
came with a numerous band
The king and his guests with him,
and drew nigh to the strand.
One saw, too, by the rein led,
full many a maiden’s steed.
For those who should receive them
to wait they had no need.
580
For when the folk of Iceland
unto the ship were led—
And eke the Niblung people
who Siegfried followèd—
They put across the water,
with quick, unwearied hand,
To where, upon the quay-side,
they saw the king’s friends stand.
581
Now hearken to my story!
I’ll tell you how the Queen
Uté, the rich queen-mother,
was with her maidens seen,
Forth coming from the castle,
whence she herself did ride.
Then many an acquaintance
’twixt knight and maid was tied.
582
Kriemhilda’s palfrey led was
by Gere the Margrave
As far as the fort gateway,
where Siegfried, warrior brave,
Must thenceforth wait upon her;—
she was a lovely maid!
And he by this fair lady
was, later, well repaid.
583
Alongside Lady Uté,
Ortwein the bold rode he,
With many knights and maidens
who bare them company.
Ne’er at a great reception,
we must confess, had been
So great a throng of ladies
as here together seen.
584
And many a fair encounter
took place amid the train
Of praise-deserving heroes,
(they could not well refrain)
Before the fair Kriemhilda,
until the ship they reach.
Then from their palfreys lift they,
the well-dight ladies each.
585
The king had now cross’d over,
and many a guest of worth.
Hey! what stout shafts were shiver’d
for these fair ladies’ mirth!
One heard the hurtling tumult,
as lance on buckler rang,
Ay, and the rich shield-bosses
that in the press did clang!
586
The fair ones now were standing
the landing-place upon;—
With all his guests had Gunther
up from the vessel gone;
He led the Lady Brunhild
with his own royal hand.
Then shone against each other
bright gems and garments grand.
587
With courtly grace Dame Kriemhild
did thereupon repair
To where the Lady Brunhild
and all her courtiers were.
One saw them push their chaplets
with their white fingers by,
What time they kissed each other:
’twas done in courtesy.
588
Then spake the maid Kriemhilda,
and fittingly spake she:
“To us in this our country
right welcome may you be;
To me, and to my mother,
as unto ev’ry friend
Whom we as faithful reckon.”
Then each did lowly bend.
589
The dames each other greeted
with clasp of hand and arm,
No one had ever heard of
a welcoming so warm.
As soon as the two ladies
the bride for certain wist,
Dame Uté and her daughter
her sweet mouth often kiss’d.
590
When all Brunhilda’s ladies
had lighted on the strand,
They tenderly were greeted,
and taken by the hand.
For many a well-dight woman
there was a warrior good;
And many beauteous maidens
with Dame Brunhilda stood.
591
Before their greeting ended
a good long hour had sped;
Ay, and the lips, like roses,
were kiss’d of many a maid.
Still stood by one another
those two kings’ daughters bright—
To many a valiant hero
they were a lovely sight.
592
With their own eyes beheld they,
who often told had been
That no such peerless beauty
had ever yet been seen
As that of these two ladies:
it now was plain to view;—
One saw, too, on their bodies
naught in the least untrue.
593
Those who could judge of women
and on fair forms decide,
Did laud and praise for beauty
the royal Gunther’s bride.
But others—they were wise men
with more discerning eyes—
Said, that from Dame Brunhilda
Kriemhilda won the prize.
594
Now dame and maid were walking,
each other opposite,
And many a lovely body
one saw right nobly dight.
And many a rich pavilion
and silken tent were there:
The plain that Worms surrounded
was crowded everywhere.
595
The kinsmen of King Gunther
came thronging thereunto.
Brunhilda and Kriemhilda
were thither bade to go
And take with them their ladies—
where they in shade could stand.
There, with them, came the nobles
of the Burgundian land.
596
Meanwhile upon their chargers
the guests were all a-field,
And many a doughty lance-thrust
was caught upon the shield.
The plain with dust was smoking—
as though the very earth
In flames would soon be bursting:
now heroes show’d their worth.
597
Upon these knightly doings
looked many a maiden’s eye.
I doubt not that Sir Siegfried
full many a time rode by
The tents, as with his liegemen
he back and forward sped.
A thousand gallant warriors
from Nibelung he led.
598
Then Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
at his host’s bidding went,
And courteously the hero
did close the tournament—
Lest by the dust besprinkled
the beauteous maids should be.
This order by the guests was
obey’d good-humouredly.
599
Then spake the noble Gernot:
“Let now the horses rest.
As soon as it grows cooler
we knights will do our best
To please these lovely ladies,
before the palace wide.
Let everyone be ready
whene’er the king will ride.”
600
When all the wide field over
the tournament was stayed,
For pastime went the heroes
beneath the tall tents’ shade,
To parley with the ladies—
on mirth and pleasure bent;
Thus, till ’twas time for riding,
their leisure hours were spent.
601
But when it grew towards even
and near the sun’s last ray—
Seeing the air was cooler—
they would no more delay.
Then many a knight and lady
toward the castle rode.
On many a beauteous woman
were loving looks bestow’d.
602
And now they raced for raiment
such as good knights do wear,
These highly-mettled warriors—
as was the custom there—
Until they reach’d the palace;
there did the king dismount,
And they the ladies aided
as gallant knights be wont.
603
Now, too, the royal ladies
did from each other part.
Queen Uté and her daughter
together did depart,
With all their court-attendants,
unto a chamber wide.
Then shouts of joy and laughter
were heard on ev’ry side.
604
The seats being set in order,
the royal Gunther would
Go with his guests to supper;
’twas seen how by him stood
The beautiful Brunhilda;
and now a crown she wore,
As queen in her king’s kingdom;—
well worth was she therefore.
605
Fine seats were set for many,
by tables broad and good—
As we have been assurèd—
laid with abundant food.
Of all that they could wish for
how little lack was seen!
And with the king was many
a guest of lordly mien.
606
The host’s own body-servants,
in ewers of red gold,
Did fetch and carry water.
If you should e’er be told
That at a prince’s wedding
the service was more fit,
’Twould trouble me but little—
I’d put no faith in it!
607
Before the great Rhine ruler
did of the water take,
Sir Siegfried went unto him
a due request to make:
To warn him of his promise,
which he, by his right hand
Pledged, ere he saw Brunhilda
at home in Isenland.
608
He spake: “You must remember,
you swore by your right hand,
If ever Dame Brunhilda
should come to this your land,
You’d give to me your sister;
now what hath got your oath?
Much trouble with your journey
I’ve taken, nothing loth.”
609
Then to his guest the king said:
“Thou didst right well to speak;—
What on my hand I swore you,
that oath I will not break.
As best I can, I’ll help you
to bring about this thing.”
Then was Kriemhilda summon’d
to court before the king.
610
With all her beauteous maidens
she came unto the hall.
Then, from a dais springing,
young Giselher did call:
“Bid all these other damsels
return, for verily
No other than my sister
here with the king shall be.”
611
They brought the Lady Kriemhild
to where the king did stand,
With noble knights around him
from many a prince’s land.
In the wide hall they bade her
stand quietly alone;—
Meanwhile the Lady Brunhild
had to the banquet gone.
612
Thereon did speak King Gunther:
“Dear sister, noble maid,
I trust unto thy goodness
to let mine oath be paid.
I’ve pledged thee to a warrior;
should he become thy lord,
By thy true faith and duty
thou wilt have kept my word!”
613
Then spake the noble maiden:
“Belovèd brother mine,
Thou shouldst not thus beseech me;
my will is ever thine
To do as thou commandest;
what thou hast will’d, shall be:
I’ll take, my lord, for husband,
him whom thou giv’st to me.”
614
At her dear eyes’ kind glances
all red grew Siegfried’s face;
At Dame Kriemhilda’s service
the knight himself did place.
They twain then must together
within the circle stand:
They asked if she were willing
to take this hero’s hand?
615
A little was she shamèd
with maiden modesty;
But yet, so blest was Siegfried
and eke so lucky he,
That she did not refuse him
at once and out of hand.
To wife he swore to take her,
that king of Netherland.
616
So he to her was plighted,
and unto him the maid.
And now the loving damsel
no longer was afraid
Within the arms of Siegfried
in sweet embrace to rest.
And then, before the heroes,
his beauteous queen he kiss’d.
617
The crowd in twain divided;
and, soon as this was done,
Lo, there was Siegfried seated
upon the second throne
And, by his side, Kriemhilda;
many on them did wait;
One saw the Niblungs thronging
around where Siegfried sate.
618
The king was likewise seated,
with Brunhilda the maid.
But when she saw Kriemhilda
(she ne’er had been so sad!)
By noble Siegfried sitting,
a-weeping she began:
Her many hot tears falling
adown her bright cheeks ran.
619
Then spake the country’s ruler:
“What ails you, lady mine,
That you should dim with weeping
those bright and shining eyne?
You rather should be joyful
that subject unto you
My land is, and my castles,
and many a bold man, too.”
620
“Good cause have I for weeping,”
replied the beauteous maid,
“In sooth about thy sister
my very heart is sad;
I see her sitting next to
yon vassal of thine own:
Needs must I ever mourn it
if she be thus undone.”
621
King Gunther whisper’d to her:
“I prithee, silent be!
At some more fitting season
I’ll tell this tale to thee,
And wherefore unto Siegfried
I did my sister give;
In sooth she, with this warrior,
right happily may live.”
622
She said: “I aye must pity
her beauty and her grace;
And gladly would I hide me—
did I but know a place—
That it might ne’er befall me
to lay me by your side;—
Unless thou tell’st me wherefore
she must be Siegfried’s bride.”
623
The noble king said to her:
“This much then understand:
He hath as many castles
as I, and broader land—
That know now of a surety;
a mighty king is he,
And therefore this fair maiden
gave I his wife to be.”
624
Whate’er the king said to her,
she troubled was in mood.
Now hastened from the tables
full many a warrior good.
So lusty was their tilting,
it made the fortress ring;—
The host amid his guests was
distraught and wearying.
625
He thought how sweet would rest be,
by that fair woman’s side!
His heart was never free from
this longing for his bride.
He from her wifely duties
much love must surely win:
Then tenderly Brunhilda
to eye did he begin.
626
The guests of knightly pastimes
were bid to make an end;
The king unto his chamber
would with his spouse ascend.
Before the great hall-stairway
Kriemhild and Brunhild met:
They look’d upon each other
with nought but kindness yet.
627
Then came their court-attendants;
there was no lingering;
The chamberlains rich-suited
the taper-lights did bring.
The warriors were divided—
to either king his men:
’Twas plainly seen how many
did follow Siegfried then.
628
Unto their wedding chambers
thus both the heroes came.
And each of them was thinking
how he by love would tame
His lovely lady’s scruples,
and tender was his mood.
To Siegfried was his pastime
beyond all measure good.
629
For when the lordly hero
held Kriemhild to his heart,
And comforted the maiden
with every loving art,
Amid his noble wooing
she seem’d his very life:
Not for a thousand others
had he foregone his wife.
630
Of how he woo’d his lady
I nothing more will tell.
But hearken to this story,
to Gunther what befell
Along with Dame Brunhilda.
Methinks the comely thane,
On many a softer pillow
with other dames had lain!
631
The serving-folk had vanish’d,
women as well as men:
The door of the bride-chamber
was quickly closèd then.
He thought he should be clasping
her sweet form presently—
The time was still far distant
when she his wife would be.
632
In shift of snow-white linen
she came unto the bed.
Then thought the noble warrior:
“Now have I compassèd
All that I ever yearn’d for,
through all my livelong days!”
Her beauty had bewitch’d him—
’twere no unlikely case.
633
The noble king did firstly
quench with his hand the light.
To where the dame was lying
then ventured that bold knight.
He stretch’d himself beside her:
his joy could not be told
As in his arms the hero
the lovely one did fold.
634
All loving customs was he
right ready to fulfil,
If but the noble lady
had let him have his will.
But she so full of wrath was
that sorry was his state:
He thought to meet with kindness,
and found unfriendly hate.
635
She spake: “O knight most noble,
you best had let me be,
For that which might content you
you ne’er will get from me!
I will remain a maiden—
you may be sure of that—
Until I learn the story.”
That made her Gunther hate.
636
He tried to wring love from her,
and, striving, tore her dress.
Whereat she seized a girdle—
this masterful princess;
It was a cord well-twisted,
which round the hips she wore.
Then to the king full measure
she gave of anguish sore.
637
His feet and hands together
she fasten’d therewithal;
Then to a nail she bore him,
and hung him on the wall!
Because her sleep he hinder’d,
to him she love forbad:
Her strength, in sooth, was such that
his death he well-nigh had.
638
Then fell he to beseeching,
who master should have been:
“Loose now my bonds, I pray you,
most good and noble queen!
I’ll take an oath, fair lady,
you never to constrain;
And never will I lay me
so nigh to you again.”
639
She little reck’d how fared he,
so she but softly lay:
He needs must stay there hanging
all night until the day—
Until the light of morning
athwart the lattice shone.
If e’er of strength he boasted,
that strength was well-nigh gone.
640
“Now say to me Lord Gunther,
would you not be afraid
To be found tied and hanging,”
question’d the beauteous maid,
“By your own body-servants?—
bound by a woman, too?”
The noble knight made answer:
“ ’Twould evil bode for you!
641
“I, too, should win small honour,”
the worthy man did say:
“I pray you of your goodness
to let me by you stay,
And since it seems my wooing
doth anger you so much,
’Twill long be ere my fingers
shall dare your robe to touch!”
642
Then speedily she loosed him,
and let him to his feet.
Again into the bride-bed
he to his wife did get;
Yet so far did he lay him,
that he her raiment fair
Thenceforth could scarcely ruffle—
of that she took good care.
643
In came then their attendants,
and brought them fresh array—
Of which a mighty store was
all ready for that day.
How gay soe’er the world was,
right gloomy had he grown,
The country’s noble ruler,
who wore, by day, a crown!
644
According to old custom,
which rightly men obey,
King Gunther and Queen Brunhild
no longer must delay
To go unto the minster,
where Holy Mass was sung.
There, likewise, came Sir Siegfried,
and mighty was the throng.
645
As kingly rank demanded,
in readiness did wait
Whatever they had need of:
their crowns and robes of state.
Then were they consecrated;
and, after that was done,
All four were seen in gladness
to stand, each with a crown.
646
Then many youths were knighted—
six hundred, maybe more—
In honour of the crowning;—
of that ye may be sure;
And great rejoicing was there
throughout Burgundian land.
One heard the lances splinter
in every new knight’s hand.
647
The fair maids in the windows
sat, and o’erlook’d the field:
They saw below them flashing
full many a polish’d shield.
King Gunther kept aloof from
his lieges’ revelry—
Whate’er the rest were doing,
a mournful man was he:
648
How great was the unlikeness
of his and Siegfried’s mood!
And well he knew what ailed him
that noble knight and good.
Unto the king he hastened,
and straight to question fell:
“How fared you yestereven?
to me you this should tell.”
649
Then to his guest the host spake:
“A foul disgrace ’twill be!
I’ve brought the very devil
home to the house with me!
For when I sought to woo her,
she bound me tight withal,
Then to a nail she bore me
and hang’d me on the wall.
650
“There hung I in mine anguish
all night until the day,
Before she would unbind me.
How softly, too, she lay!
This, trusting in your friendship,
I tell you secretly.”
Then cried the stalwart Siegfried:
“This grieves me, verily;
651
“I’ll see if I can help you,
so put your grief away.
I’ll manage that this evening
she’ll let you by her stay;—
She shall not even flout you,
nor scorn your love again.”
This saying was to Gunther
sweet comfort after pain.
652
And further spake Sir Siegfried:
“Thou yet mayst prosper well.
Right different, I ween, was
the luck that us befell!
To me your sister Kriemhild
is dearer than my life:
This same night Dame Brunhilda
shall be your willing wife.”
653
He said: “Unto your chamber
I’ll come this very night,
Clad in my hood of darkness,
unseen of any wight—
That ne’er another person
my artifice may know;
So let your chamber-servants
unto their hostel go.
654
“The lights the pages carry
I’ll suddenly put out;
And this will be the token,
that you may have no doubt
But I am nigh to aid you:
yea! I will tame your wife
That you this night can woo her;—
thereon I stake my life!”
655
“Then,” quoth the king, “be careful
thou yieldest not to love;
She is mine own dear lady!
The rest I do approve—
Do with her what thou choosest;—
if thou shouldst take her life
Methinks I would o’erlook it:
she is a fearsome wife!”
656
“I do agree,” cried Siegfried,
“and, by my faith, I swear
I will not seek to woo her.
Is not thy sister dear
Before all other women
I have set eyes on aye?”
Right well believèd Gunther
what Siegfried then did say.
657
The merry games brought gladness
and also weariness.
The tilting and the shouting
were bidden soon to cease:
For to the hall the ladies
were shortly to depart.
The chamberlains commanded
the folk to stand apart.
658
The horses and the people
were driven from the court.
Each of the beauteous ladies
a bishop did escort,
When they in kingly presence
must go to sit at meat.
And many a goodly liegeman
them follow’d to their seat.
659
The king, with hopes encouraged,
in joyous humour sat:
What Siegfried had assured him,
his mind was full of that!
To him this one day seemèd
as long as thirty days.
Upon his lady’s wooing
his thoughts were set always.
660
He scarcely could content him
until the meal was done.
Then was the fair Brunhilda
at leisure to be gone,
As also was Kriemhilda;
both to their rooms would go,
The thanes around them thronging;—
ha! ’twas a gallant show!
661
Sir Siegfried by Kriemhilda
his beauteous wife still sate,
And with her held sweet converse
with joy unmarr’d by hate.
His hands she softly fondled
with hers that were so white—
Until—but how she knew not—
he vanish’d from her sight.
662
As she with him was toying
and found he’d slipped away,
She turned to his attendants,
and thus the queen did say:
“I marvel what hath happen’d
the king, where hath he gone?
His hands he but this moment
hath taken from mine own.”
663
She did not question further.
Meanwhile he quickly came
To where the chamber-servants
did wait with links aflame:
He straight began to quench them,
each in the page’s hand.
That it was done by Siegfried
Gunther did understand.
664
Well knew he what he wanted:
he therefore bade begone
The maids and dames who waited.
As soon as this was done
The noble king was careful
himself to lock the door:
Two strong bolts drew he quickly
and fastened therebefore.
665
Behind the tester-hangings
he hid the tapers’ light.
And then began a play-piece,
which ended not that night,
Betwixt the stalwart Siegfried
and that fair maiden wife;—
Which was unto King Gunther
with joy and sorrow rife.
666
When on the couch lay Siegfried
alongside of the queen:
“Take care,” quoth she, “Lord Gunther,
—though sweet it might have been
To love me—lest you suffer
as you have done before.”
The lady for bold Siegfried
had bitter woe in store.
667
To hide his voice he fail’d not,
and ne’er a word spake he.
And so ’twas plain to Gunther,
although he could not see,
That nothing sly or secret
was passing ’twixt the twain.
But little peace or comfort
did either of them gain!
668
He bore himself as though he
the great King Gunther were,
And in his arms clasp’d closely
that maiden passing fair.
But on a bench by-standing
she hurl’d him from the bed,
So that against a footstool
he loudly smote his head.
669
Arising, strong as ever,
up leapt the gallant man:
This time he would do better!
but soon as he began
To try and overpower her,
again she wrought him woe.
Ne’er wife hath made a fending
the like of that, I trow!
670
And when he gave not over,
the maiden sprang upright:
“Full ill doth it beseem you
to touch my shift so white!
Coarse are you and unmanner’d:
woe therefore you betide!
You shall not soon forget it!”
the comely maiden cried.
671
She clasp’d the good knight tightly
with both her arms around,
And would have laid and bound him,
as she the king had bound—
That she in peace and quiet
might lie upon her bed.
The ruffling of her raiment
she vengefully repaid.
672
What did his valour serve him,
and what his power of limb,
When she essayed to show him
that she could master him?
By might and main she bore him—
not elsewise could it be—
And ’twixt the bed and cupboard
she crush’d him cruelly.
673
“Ah, woe is me!” the knight thought,
“am I to lose my life,
And that through a mere maiden?
if so be, every wife,
From this day forth for ever,
with arrogance and pride
Will treat her lawful husband;
which else should ne’er betide.”
674
The king could hear all plainly,
and grievèd for the man.
Siegfried, full sore ashamèd,
to rage within began;
His monstrous strength outputting
he with the maid did close,
And strove with all his forces
Dame Brunhild to oppose.
675
Long time it seemed to Gunther
ere he the maid did quell.
She grasp’d his hands so tightly,
that from each finger-nail
The blood burst from her pressure;—
sad pain the hero bore
Ere yet the noble maiden
he made for evermore
676
Renounce that will unruly,
of which she was so proud.
The king heard what was passing,
but durst not speak a word.
Against the bed he press’d her,
until she cried again:
His strength it was sufficient
to cause her gruesome pain.
677
Then clutch’d she at the girdle
she wore about her waist,
And would have bound him with it:
he stopp’d it with such haste
And force, that all her body
and joints crack’d in the strife.
Thus ended was the battle—
she now was Gunther’s wife.
678
She spake: “O noble sovran,
now let my life go free,
And all shall be atoned for
that I have done to thee.
Ne’er more I’ll do despite to
the love of thy true heart:
Right surely have I proved that
thou women’s master art.”
679
Sir Siegfried stepp’d aside then—
whilst there the maiden lay—
As though he had bethought him
his clothes to put away;
But first, from off her finger
a golden ring he drew,
So that the noble maiden
naught of it ever knew.
680
He likewise took her girdle—
a silken cord and good—
I know not if he took it
in arrogance of mood.
Unto his wife he gave it,
whence woe he one day had.
Then lay each by the other
the king and his fair maid.
681
He woo’d her as a lover,
as was his right to do.
And needs must she her anger
and eke her shame forego.
So closely did he court her
her cheeks grew somewhat pale:
Ah me! how all her power
was made by love to fail!
682
For now she was no stronger
than any other dame,
And all her lovely body
his very own became.
If she had tried to spurn him,
what profit could it prove?
This was the work of Gunther
by virtue of his love.
683
How full of fond endearments
he by the lady lay,
In tender love and kindness
until the dawn of day!
Meanwhile, the noble Siegfried
had gone again outside,
And was right warmly welcomed
by his own winsome bride.
684
He put aside the questions
which did perplex her thought,
And long from her kept hidden
what he for her had brought;—
Until, a queen and crownèd,
to his own land she went.
What he was doom’d to give her
he nowise could prevent!
685
The host upon the morrow
was in a gayer mood
Than on the former morning;
thereby a humour good
Spread through his lands, rejoicing
full many a noble thane
Whom to his house he summon’d,
and well did entertain.
686
The merry-making lasted
until the fourteenth day.
And all the while the turmoil
did not abate nor stay
With all kinds of rejoicing,
which one and all must share.
’Twas all at the king’s charges,
and great in sooth they were.
687
For noble Gunther’s kinsmen,
as them the king had told,
Gave gifts to do him honour,
of raiment and red gold,
Of horses and of silver,
unto the outland men.
They who for gifts were eager
departed happy then.
688
And even the lord Siegfried
from out of Netherland,
With all his thousand lieges,
of that apparel grand
Which they had brought to Rhineland
to them did freely give;
Fine horses, eke, and saddles:
right nobly could they live!
689
Ere all the costly presents
were shared among the throng,
Those who would fain go homeward
began to think it long.
Ne’er yet of like enjoyment
had guests so had their fill.
And so the wedding ended,
such was King Gunther’s will.
Adventure XI
How Siegfried Went Home with His Wife
690
Now that the guests departing
all on their way were sped,
Siegfried the son of Siegmund
unto his people said:
“We likewise must make ready
home to our land to go.”
Well liked his wife these tidings,
when she the news did know.
691
She spake unto her husband:
“When must we needs set out?
That I should go thus quickly
I very much misdoubt;
For firstly must my brothers
with me the kingdom share.”
’Twas irksome unto Siegfried
from Kriemhild this to hear.
692
The princes went unto him
and spake to him, all three:
“Now be assured, Sir Siegfried,
that yours shall ever be
Our true and faithful service,
ay, even unto death!”
He bowed unto the princes
who pledged him thus their faith.
693
“We would with you share also,”
said Giselher the young,
“The lands and eke the castles
which unto us belong.
Whate’er of this wide kingdom
be subject to our rule,
Together with Kriemhilda,
that shall you share in full.”
694
Thereon the son of Siegmund
said to the princes three,
As soon as of these nobles
the goodwill he did see:
“Your heritage, God grant it
for ever blessèd be,
And eke the folk within it!
But, for my dear wife, she
695
“Gladly foregoes the portion
that ye to her would give.
A crown she’ll soon be wearing,
and, if we both should live,
She’ll be, in sooth, far richer
than any living bride.
In aught else at your service
I’ll loyally abide.”
696
Then spake the lady Kriemhild:
“Though naught my land you deem,
Burgundian thanes should never
stand in such small esteem!
To lead them to his country
right glad a king might be.
Ay! let my own dear brothers
e’en share in all with me.”
697
Then spake the noble Gernot:
“Take whom thou hast a mind;
Of those who would ride with thee,
thou here wilt plenty find!
Of thirty hundred warriors
a thousand we’ll give thee
To be thine own attendants.”
Then Kriemhild speedily
698
For Hagen sent, of Tronjé,
and likewise for Ortwein:
“Will ye and eke your kinsmen,”
she asked, “be men of mine?”
But Hagen, when he heard it,
cried in a mood of wrath:
“Nay, Gunther may not give us
to anyone on earth!
699
“Let others of your household
attend you on your way,
Well might you know by this time
the customs of Tronjé
Upon the king attending
at court we choose to stay—
Whom we thus far have follow’d,
we still would serve alway,”
700
’Twas therefore so decided:
to start they did prepare.
As noble court-attendants
Dame Kriemhild took with her
Of maidens two-and-thirty,
besides five hundred men.
Sir Eckewart, the Margrave,
went with Kriemhilda then.
701
Then was a great leave-taking,
of squire as well as knight,
Of maiden and of matron:
as was indeed but right.
Friend kissing friend at parting
was seen on every hand:
Right gaily they departed
from out King Gunther’s land.
702
Their kinsmen did escort them
far out upon the way.
And camping-grounds were fix’d on,
where they the night should stay—
Wherever seem’d good to them
throughout the kings’ domain.
Swift messengers to Siegmund
the tidings bear amain
703
That he and Dame Sieglinda,
might straight be made aware
How that their son was coming,
with Uté’s daughter fair—
The beauteous Kriemhilda,
of Worms on the Rhine-strand.
No dearer news and better
could e’er have come to hand.
704
“Ah, well for me,” quoth Siegmund,
“that I this day have known
When beauteous Kriemhilda
comes hither for a crown!
Mine heritage I reckon
thereby a worthier thing:
My son, the noble Siegfried,
shall here himself be king.”
705
Then gave the Lady Sieglind
much velvet of red hue,
And weighty gold and silver,
that was their herald’s due;
So much the news rejoiced her
which she had heard that day.
With zeal her waiting-maidens
now donn’d their best array.
706
Folks talk’d of who was coming
with Siegfried to their land.
They bade men raise a platform,
with benches close at hand,
Wherefrom his friends might see him
as with his crown he rode.
King Siegmund’s men went forward
to meet him on the road.
707
If any better welcome
to heroes aye befell
Than in this land of Siegmund,
it is not mine to tell.
To meet the fair Kriemhilda
Sieglind herself did ride,
With many a lovely lady
and gallant knights beside.
708
After a whole day’s journey
at length the guests they spied.
Both native-born and strangers
did weary of the ride,
Before they reached a fortress—
a castle large and strong—
’Twas Santen hight; and therein
they wore their crowns erelong.
709
With smiling lips and loving,
Sieglind and Siegmund too
Greeted the fair Kriemhilda,
with kisses not a few;
They did the like to Siegfried;
now gone was all their pain.
Their followers did likewise
a hearty welcome gain.
710
They bade the guests be taken
in front of Siegmund’s hall.
And there the beauteous maidens
were holpen, one and all,
To dismount from their palfreys;
and there was many a man
Who on these lovely women
to wait with zeal began.
711
How grand soe’er the wedding
had been upon the Rhine,
Here did they give the heroes
apparel far more fine
Than they, in all their lifetime,
had ever worn before.
One might tell mickle marvels
of all their wealth in store.
712
They sate in state and splendour,
and had of all enough.
What raiment wore their servants
of golden-colour’d stuff!
With broider’d lace adornèd,
and precious stones inwrought!
The noble Queen Sieglinda
of this had taken thought.
713
Before his friends and kinsmen
then noble Siegmund spake:
“I charge all Siegfried’s kinsfolk
notice hereby to take,
That he, before these warriors,
my crown henceforth shall wear.”
This news the Netherlanders
were glad in sooth to hear.
714
To him he gave his kingdom,
his crown, and government.
Henceforth he was their master.
And his arbitrament
And rendering of justice
became abiding law;—
So that fair Kriemhild’s husband
was greatly held in awe.
715
In this estate of honour,
he lived, as all declare,
And wore the crown and govern’d—
until, in the tenth year,
His comely wife in safety
brought forth her firstborn son;
Whereat the royal kinsfolk
were gladden’d ev’ryone.
716
They hasten’d to baptize him,
and gave him for a name,
After his uncle, Gunther,
which could not bring him shame.
Were he but as his forbears,
a brave man he would grow.
They gave him careful training,
as bounden so to do.
717
About the self-same season
Dame Sieglind pass’d away.
Then noble Uté’s daughter
did over all hold sway—
As doth beseem such ladies
who wealth and lands possess.
That Death the queen had taken
they mournèd none the less.
718
Now yonder too, in Rhineland—
so doth the story run—
Unto the wealthy Gunther
there had been born a son
Of beauteous Brunhilda,
in realm of Burgundy;
And, for the love of Siegfried,
that hero’s name had he.
719
With what great care unceasing
that child was watch’d and taught!
For him the noble Gunther
caused teachers to be sought,
To rear him in all virtues
befitting man’s estate.
Alas! how in his kinsfolk
he found an evil fate!
720
In legends old, the story
hath many a time been told,
Of how those gallant warriors
lived in the days of old;
Worthy of praise, at all times,
in good King Siegmund’s land.
The like did also Gunther
and all his knightly band.
721
The kingdom of the Niblungs
was under Siegfried’s sway—
Among his wealthy kinsfolk
there was no wealthier aye—
And Schilbung’s warriors also,
and all their goods and gold.
Well might the gallant warrior
his head more highly hold.
722
The greatest of all treasures
that ever hero won,
Save they that erst-time held it,
the gallant knight did own;—
Which once upon a mountain
he wrested by his might;
He did to death to gain it
full many a doughty knight.
723
He had his fill of honour;
and had it not been so,
In justice to the hero
one needs must own, I trow,
That he among the best was
that e’er on horseback sat;
Men fear’d his strength of body;
with reason did they that.
Adventure XII
How Gunther Bade Siegfried to the Festival
724
Now Gunther’s wife the meanwhile
was brooding ev’ry day:
“Why bears herself Dame Kriemhild
in such a lofty way?
Is not her husband Siegfried
a vassal of our own?
Scant service hath he paid us
in all these years agone!”
725
Within her heart this kept she,
and heed took thereanent.
Yet that they came not ever
did make her ill-content,
And that she got no service
out of Sir Siegfried’s land;
And wherefore this should happen
she fain would understand.
726
So of the king inquired she,
whether it might not be
That she the Lady Kriemhild
yet once again might see?
She privily spoke to him
of what her mind thus teased:
But when her lord had heard her,
he was but half well-pleased.
727
“And how are we to bring them,”
then said the mighty king,
“Here into this our country?
that were no easy thing!
Too far from us they’re dwelling;
to ask I am afraid.”
Then answer’d him Brunhilda,
with crafty air and said:
728
“However high and mighty
a king’s man be, I say
That he his lord’s commandments
should never dare gainsay.”
And to himself smiled Gunther
whilst she laid down the law:
He had no thought of service
whene’er he Siegfried saw.
729
She spake: “My lord belovèd,
I pray thee, for my sake,
Lend me thine aid; that Siegfried
may with thy sister take
Their journey to this country—
that here we them may see;—
For nothing that could happen
would be more sweet to me.
730
“Thy sister’s gentle breeding
and well-contented mood,
Whene’er I think upon them,
in sooth, it doth me good.
How we did sit together,
when first I was thy wife!
Right well hath she deservèd
bold Siegfried’s love and life.”
731
So long she thus besought him,
until the king did say:
“Be sure that guests more welcome
could ne’er be any day;
’Tis easy to persuade me!
and messengers of mine
I’ll send unto the couple,
to bring them to the Rhine.”
732
Then spake the queen yet further:
“Now also you must say
When you will send to fetch them,
and at what time we may
Look for our well-loved kinsfolk
to come unto our land:
And whom you purpose sending
I fain would understand.”
733
“That will I do,” the king said:
“thirty of mine own men
Will I send riding thither.”
These did he summon then,
And by them sent his message
unto Prince Siegfried’s land.
Dame Brunhild to content them
gave much apparel grand.
734
Then said the king: “This message
ye’ll take, my warriors bold,
Wherewith I now entrust ye
—see that ye naught withhold—
Unto the mighty Siegfried
and to my sister dear:
That in this world doth no one
more kindness to them bear.
735
“And pray that both do shortly
come to us on the Rhine,
For which we’ll ever thank them,
I and this lady mine.
Before this next midsummer
he and his men shall see
Things done, which to his pleasure
and honour great shall be.
736
“And likewise to King Siegmund
my service take and say,
That I and all my people
be bound to him alway.
Say also to my sister,
that she must tarry not;
More worthy entertainment
shall never be her lot.”
737
Brunhilda and Queen Uté,
and every dame at hand,
Sent messages of service
to all in Siegfried’s land;
Unto the lovely women,
and many a man of worth.—
Then by the king’s good pleasure
the messengers set forth.
738
In trav’lling guise they journey’d;
their steeds and wearing-gear
Were ready made beforehand;
so from the land they fare.
They made good progress onward
to where their goal did lie,
The king came with an escort
to speed his embassy.
739
At end of three weeks’ riding
they came into the land
Wherein the Niblung stronghold,
where they were sent, did stand
On the Norwegian border;
and there they found the thane.
Both steeds and men were weary
with their long journey’s pain.
740
Then was it unto Siegfried
and to Kriemhilda said
How knights had come on horseback
and so apparellèd
As in Burgundian country
the fashion was that day:
Straight from the couch upsprang she
whereon she resting lay.
741
And quickly to a window
she bade a maiden go,
Who saw the gallant Gere
stand in the court below,
Him and the comrades with him,
who had been thither sent;
Instead of all her heartache
how great was her content!
742
Unto the king then spake she:
“Now look you down below,
How they with doughty Gere
about the courtyard go,
Whom my good brother Gunther
here down the Rhine hath sent!”
The stalwart Siegfried answered:
“We’ll make them well content.”
743
Then all the court attendants
did hasten out to greet,
And every one among them
did speak a welcome meet;
They gave unto the envoys
the best words that they had.
The old King Siegmund likewise
was of their coming glad.
744
A lodging was appointed
for Gere and his men,
The horses too were cared for.
The messengers went then
Unto the hall where Siegfried
near to Kriemhilda sat.
At court they had free entry:
and therefore did they that.
745
The host rose with the hostess
and near to them did stand.
Right well was Gere welcomed
from the Burgundian land,
With all his knightly comrades—
King Gunther’s men to wit.
The noble Gere bade they
upon the bench to sit.
746
“Before we sit allow us
to tell you of our news;
Though weary with our journey,
to stand the while we choose.
We have to give a message
which unto you we bring
From Gunther and Brunhilda—
and weighty is this thing.
747
“And likewise what Dame Uté,
your mother, sendeth you,
And Giselher the young knight,
and noble Gernot too,
And all your nearest kinsfolk,
from whom we have command
To offer you their greeting
from the Burgundian land.”
748
“Now God reward ye, heralds,”
cried Siegfried, “and I trust
Unto your truth and kindness—
as towards friends we must—
So likewise doth their sister;—
and now your tidings give
If still our friends belovèd
at home in gladness live.
749
“Since we from them departed
hath no one evil done
Unto Kriemhilda’s kinsmen?
let that to me be known.
My faithful help is ready
in ev’ry time of need,
Until mine aid and service
their foes shall rue indeed!”
750
Then quoth the Margrave Gere—
he was a warrior good:
“Right happily abide they
in all good livelihood;
They bid you to the Rhineland,
to a high festival;
Right gladly will they see you,
of that doubt not at all.
751
“They pray my lady also
that she will thither wend
So soon as e’er the winter
shall come unto its end.
Before this next midsummer
your faces would they see.”
Then spake the stalwart Siegfried:
“Nay, that can hardly be!”
752
But further spake Sir Gere,
from the Burgundian land:
“It is your mother Uté
who maketh this demand;
Eke Giselher and Gernot,
ye must not them gainsay:
That ye be so far distant
I hear complaints each day.
753
“Brunhilda, too, my mistress,
and all her maidens fair
Rejoice at this my errand;
if likelihood there were
That they once more might see you,
happy would be their mood.”
Unto the fair Kriemhilda
this message seemed right good.
754
As Gere was her kinsman,
the host then bade him sit.
Wine for the guests he ordered;
nor long they wanted it.
And thither, too, came Siegmund,
who had the heralds seen;
To the Burgundian heroes
he spake with friendly mien:
755
“Be welcome, Gunther’s liegemen,
ye warriors, every one!
Since it hath happ’d that Siegfried
my son to wife hath won
Kriemhilda fair, more often
ye would we gladly see
In this our land, if truly
to us ye’ll friendly be.”
756
They said that if he wish’d it
they’d gladly come again.
And so in pleasure vanish’d
their weariness and pain.
The messengers were seated,
and food was brought them there:
For guests so welcome Siegfried
had plenty of good fare.
757
For nine days’ space and longer
to stay they were constrain’d.
Until, at last, the horsemen,
who would be gone, complain’d
That back into their country
they never more would ride.
Meanwhile his friends King Siegfried
had summon’d to his side,
758
To ask them what they counsell’d:
would they go to the Rhine?
“He hath sent here to fetch me,
Gunther, that friend of mine—
He and his kinsfolk bid us
to keep festivity:
I’d gladly go there, save that
his land too far doth lie.
759
“They also bid Kriemhilda
to go along with me.
Now counsel me, dear kinsmen,
how thither come shall she?
If I through thirty kingdoms
my men, for them, must lead,
Still Siegfried’s hand to serve them
must ready be indeed.”
760
Then spake his chiefs unto him:
“If you’ve a mind unto
The journey to this hightide,
we’ll counsel what to do:
You with a thousand warriors
unto the Rhine shall ride;
So may you with all honour
in Burgundy abide.”
761
Then spake the noble Siegmund,
of Netherland the lord:
“Will ye unto this feasting,
and tell me not a word?
An if it will not shame you
I’ll ride along with you;
I’ll take a hundred swordsmen
to swell your retinue.”
762
“Wilt thou in sooth ride with us,
my own good father dear?”
Exclaimed the gallant Siegfried:
“right gladly that I hear.
Before twelve days are over
my fatherland I’ll leave.”
To all who did desire them
they steeds and raiment gave.
763
Now that the noble ruler
was minded soon to start,
The heralds swift were bidden
straight homewards to depart,
And unto his wife’s kinsmen
upon the Rhine to say,
That he would very gladly
with them keep holyday.
764
Both Siegfried and Kriemhilda,
as doth the story say,
More gifts gave to the heralds
than could be borne away
On their own horses homewards:
a wealthy man was he!
Their sturdy beasts of burden
they drove right merrily.
765
Their folk were cloth’d by Siegfried
and Siegmund worthily.
And Eckewart the margrave
gave orders speedily
To seek out women’s raiment,
the best that could be found,
Or anywhere be heard of
in Siegfried’s lands around.
766
The saddles and the bucklers
began they to prepare.
And to the knights and ladies
who should the journey share,
Was given whate’er they wanted,
that they might fail in naught.
Unto his friends full many
a noble guest he brought.
767
The heralds did not loiter
upon the journey home.
And soon the gallant Gere
to Burgundy was come,
Where right well was he welcomed:
they then alighted all
From chargers and from palfreys
before King Gunther’s hall.
768
The youths went and the elders,
as men are wont to do,
To ask what might the news be.
Then spake the good knight true:
“When to the king I’ve told it
the rest of you shall know.”
Then straightway with his comrades
did he to Gunther go.
769
The king, in joy to see them,
rose quickly from his chair.
That they had come so swiftly
also from Brunhild fair
Received they thanks, while Gunther
unto the envoys spake:
“How fares it now with Siegfried?
much wrought he for my sake.”
770
Then spake the gallant Gere:
“For joy his face grew red—
Both his and your fair sister’s;
and ne’er was message sped,
From any man of honour
unto his friends, more true
Than Siegfried and his father
by me have sent to you.”
771
Then thus unto the margrave
the noble king’s wife spake:
“Say, now, is Kriemhild coming?
and care doth she yet take
To keep the outward fairness,
which she to foster knew?”
“Aye,” said the warrior Gere,
“doubtless she comes to you.”
772
Then Uté to her presence
the heralds did command,
And by her question might one
right plainly understand
What she to hear was longing:
“Still well did Kriemhild fare?”
He told how he had found her,
and that she’d soon be there.
773
Nor from the court retainers
did they the gifts withhold
That they had had from Siegfried:
the raiment and the gold
In sight of all the liegemen
of the three kings were spread.
For their abundant largesse
were many thanks repaid.
774
“ ’Tis easy,” then said Hagen,
“for him such gifts to give:
He could not spend his riches
did he for ever live.
The treasure of the Niblungs
he holds within his hand.
Ha, what if it should ever
come to Burgundian land!”
775
Then was there great rejoicing
among the people all
That soon the guests were coming.
From dawn till evenfall
The three kings’ craftsmen labour’d,
with zeal untiring fill’d.
Grand rows of seats in plenty
they then began to build.
776
The valiant Sir Hunold
and Sindold too, the thane,
Had little time for leisure;
they too must work amain,
As steward and cupbearer
the places they must set.
And Ortwein help’d them: wherefore
they Gunther’s thanks did get.
777
Rumold the kitchen-master,
knew well to rule aright
His underlings and scullions!
Ay me! it was a sight
To see the polish’d kettles
and pots and pans at hand!
For food must be made ready
when guests were in the land.
Adventure XIII
How They Journeyed to the Festival
778
Now in their stir and bustle
awhile we’ll let them be,
And tell how Dame Kriemhilda
and her fair company
Hence, on their journey Rhinewards,
from Niblung-land did go.
No horses of fine raiment
e’er bore so grand a show.
779
When many sumpter-coffers
were ready for the way,
Then with his friends Sir Siegfried
no longer did delay
To ride forth, with Kriemhilda,
wherein they look’d for joy.
For all of them soon after
it turn’d to sore annoy.
780
They left at home behind them
Sir Siegfried’s baby son,
The firstborn of Kriemhilda—
not elsewise could be done.
From out of their state-journey
arose much woe and pain:
His father and his mother
that babe saw ne’er again.
781
Thence also did Lord Siegmund
together with them ride.
Had he but known what evil
thereafter would betide
At this same courtly banquet,
he ne’er had gone at all:
To him by loss of kindred
worse ill could ne’er befall.
782
Heralds were sent before them
the news betimes to say.
And soon rode out to meet them,
in lordliest array,
Many of Uté’s kinsfolk
and Gunther’s gallant men.
The host began to stir him
his guests to welcome then.
783
He went unto Brunhilda
where seated was the dame:
“How did my sister greet you,”
quoth he, “when first you came?
Even in the self-same fashion
you Siegfried’s wife must greet.”
Said she: “That will I gladly;
I love her, as is meet.”
784
Then spake the great king: “Early
to-morrow are they due.
If you would fain receive them,
be quick in what you do;
Lest we have first to greet them
in this our citadel.
In all my days I have not
had guests I loved so well.”
785
Her maidens and her women
she therefore straightway bade
To go and seek fine raiment,
the best that could be had—
Such as her own attendants
might wear her guests before.
This did they with much pleasure,
of that you may be sure!
786
King Gunther’s men now hasten’d
to tender service due.
The host about his person
had all his warriors true.
The queen herself rode with him,
all gloriously array’d;
To these well-lov€d guests was
a royal welcome made.
787
With what unfeign’d rejoicing
the guests by all were met!
’Twas said that Dame Brunhilda
did ne’er such greeting get
In the Burgundian kingdom
on the part of Dame Kreimhild.
They who had ne’er beheld her
with happiness were fill’d.
788
By this time was arrivèd
Sir Siegfried with his men.
One saw the heroes riding
forwards and back again
In all parts of the meadows,
a vast and shapeless host;
None there could get away from
the thronging and the dust.
789
Now when the country’s ruler
did gallant Siegfried see,
Together with King Siegmund,
how courteously spake he:
“Ye are to me right welcome,
and unto every friend!
I trow your royal visit
in joy to us will end.”
790
“God prosper you!” quoth Siegmund,
that honour-loving man.
“Since my son Siegfried’s friendship
for you and yours began.
’Twas aye my hope and purpose
one day your face to see.”
King Gunther said: “I also
am glad that it should be.”
791
Then was Siegfried receivèd,
as well did him beseem,
With ev’ry fitting honour:
which none amiss did deem.
And Giselher and Gernot
did lend all courteous aid.
Methinks to no guests ever
were kindlier honours paid.
792
And now the two kings’ spouses
anigh each other came.
Empty was many a saddle,
as many a beauteous dame
Was by the hands of heroes
dismounted on the grass:
For those who loved fair women
no Httle work there was!
793
Then lovingly the ladies
unto each other went;
And many a knight who saw it
was heartily content
That of these twain the greeting
so handsomely befell.
Then many a warrior saw one
stand by each damosel.
794
The throng of noble people
each other’s hands did take;
Whilst men unto each other
their courtly bows did make,
The ladies fair were kissing
each other lovingly—
Which Siegfried’s men and Gunther’s
right joyous were to see.
795
No longer did they linger,
but rode towards the town.
The host meanwhile had bidden
that every guest be shown
How truly he was welcome
to royal Burgundy.
Then many a match was tilted
for maidens fair to see.
796
And Hagen, too, from Tronjé,
and Ortewein also,
That they were men of power
did all they could to show;
And whatsoe’er they order’d
that durst no man gainsay.
Unto the guests so welcome
much service offer’d they.
797
The clang of shields resounded
before the castle-gate
From many a thrust and parry;
and long thereby did wait
The host and guests together,
ere within doors they came;
Ay, and the hours sped quickly
with many a merry game.
798
Before the stately palace
all joyously they rode;
And many fine-wrought housings,
of handsome stuff and mode
Were seen upon the saddles
of many a well-dight dame,
On either side low-hanging.
Then Gunther’s chieftains came.
799
The guests unto their chambers
were taken presently.
One saw how Lady Brunhild
at times would cast her eye
Toward the Lady Kriemhild,
who verily was fair.
Her colour in bright beauty
might well with gold compare.
800
At Worms was heard the turmoil,
on all sides of the town,
Of these incoming strangers.
King Gunther made it known
Unto his marshal, Dankwart,
that he for these must care;
So did he for the people
good lodging-room prepare.
801
Both out of doors and indoors
they e’en might feast their fill.
Ay! ne’er before were strangers
welcomed with more goodwill.
Whatever they desirèd
was ready at their side:
So wealthy was King Gunther
to none was aught denied.
802
Served were they in all friendship
and banish’d was all hate;
The host himself at table
with all the guest-folk sate.
Siegfried must now his seat take
where he afore had done;
There went to table with him
full many a worthy one.
803
Twelve hundred gallant warriors
were round the table seen
Sitting with him and feasting.
Then thought Brunhild the queen,
That ne’er a sovran ruler
could ever have more wealth.
Still leaned she so towards him
she could but wish him health.
804
And verily that evening,
while the king sat there yet,
Right many a costly garment
was by the wine made wet,
As the cupbearers quickly
around the table went.
The servants there were many,
and all right diligent.
805
As long had been the custom
when festival was made,
Unto the maids and matrons
a fair good-night they bade.
To whomsoever came there
the host a welcome gave.
In kindliness and honour
they all enough could have.
806
As soon as night was ended
and the next daylight shone,
The packing-chests were open’d,
and many a precious stone
Shone bright on goodly raiment,
by lady’s hand shown forth.
Then was to sight unfolded
full many a robe of worth.
807
Ere yet it was broad daylight
the knights and squires came out
Before the hall in numbers;
again began the rout
Or ever early mass had
before the king been sung.
Then thanks for featly riding
he gave the heroes young.
808
Soon shrill and loud resounded
full many a trumpet-blast.
From drums and pipes together
there was a noise so vast,
That Worms, the great, wide city,
loud echoed to the call.
Upon their chargers mounted
the haughty heroes all.
809
Throughout the land began then
a mighty tournament,
Where many a good knight tilted;
and thereto many went,
Whose youthful hearts and eager
beat high in gallant mood;
Behind their shields one saw them,
gay warriors and good.
810
And at their windows seated
look’d down the stately dames
And beauteous, well-dight maidens,
intent to watch the games,
And see the merry jousting
of the bold knights below.
The host amongst his lieges
himself would riding go.
811
Thus were the hours beguilèd,
and none did deem them long,
Until the minster-belfry
did call to evensong.
Then were brought round the palfreys;
the dames to ride began;
The noble queens were follow’d
by many a gallant man.
812
Alighting at the minster,
they stood down on the grass.
Unto her guests Brunhilda
so far right friendly was.
Into the wide cathedral,
wearing their crowns of state,
They went: ere long love changèd
to jealousy and hate.
813
When they to mass had listen’d
they left the church, and so
Rode off with many honours.
One saw them later go
All gaily to the banquet.
Their pleasure knew no stay,
And all was merry-making
until the eleventh day.
Adventure XIV
How the Queens Railed at One Another
814
Before the hour of vespers
one day the tumult loud
Was heard, of many warriors,
who in the court did crowd.
Their knightly feats they practised
to pass the time away:
And many a man and woman
ran up to watch the play.
815
The noble queens were seated
together, side by side,
They thought of two bold warriors,
renownèd far and wide.
Then said the fair Kriemhilda:
“I have indeed a lord
Who rightly is the ruler
of all this kingdom broad.”
816
Then cried the Lady Brunhild:
“Howe’er could such thing be,
Unless there were none living
but only thou and he?
Beneath his rule the kingdom
might fall in such a case:
So long as Gunther liveth,
it could not come to pass.”
817
But then again said Kriemhild:
“There stands he; dost thou see
How he before the warriors
doth walk right royally?
Just as the moon all brightly
above the stars doth shine!
Good cause have I for wearing
this happy mood of mine.”
818
Then Lady Brunhild answer’d:
“Comely as is thy lord,
And gallant too and handsome,
thou must the meed award
Unto thy brother Gunther,
the noble warrior:
Who, be it known, is truly
all other kings before.”
819
But yet again said Kriemhild:
“Mine is a man so rare,
That not without good reason
his praises I declare.
By many deeds great honour
he hath won, far and near;
Thou wilt allow, Brunhilda,
he well is Gunther’s peer.”
820
“I pray thee now, Kriemhilda,
take it not ill of me,
I, too, have grounds for saying
what I have said to thee:
I heard them both allow it,
when them I first look’d on,
And, as he would, against me
the king my wager won—
821
What time my love he gainèd
in such a knightly siege,
Siegfried himself confess’d it,
that he was Gunther’s liege.
Therefore I hold him vassal,
I heard him that allow.”
Then spake the fair Kriemhilda:
“For me ’twere ill enow!
822
“How could my noble brother
have hansell’d so for me
That of a mere retainer
the good-wife I should be?
I do beseech thee, Brunhild,
in all true friendliness,
Oblige me of your kindness
and let these cavils cease.”
823
Thereon the king’s wife answer’d:
“I will not let it be!
Why should I yield my claim to
so many a good knight’s fee,
Who, like the thane, thy husband,
doth suit and service owe?”
At this the beauteous Kriemhild
began with wrath to glow.
824
“The thought thou must abandon,
that he to thee did e’er
Owe any kind of service;
he is far worthier
Than is my brother Gunther—
right noble though he be.
Withdraw me now this saying
that I have heard from thee!
825
“I cannot choose but wonder,
since he thy vassal is,
And thou o’er our two persons
hast mastery like this,
That he his dues unto you
hath set so long aside!
With right do I demur to
thine overweening pride.”
826
“Thou ratest thyself too highly!”
the king’s wife answer’d then,
“Now will I gladly prove me
whether thou hast of men
As much respect and honour
as they accord to me!”
By this time both the ladies
were wrathful as could be.
827
Then cried the Lady Kriemhild:
“This must at once be seen!
If that my lord’s thy vassal,
as thou hast sworn, O queen,
To-day must I the liegemen
of both the kings let know
Whether before the king’s wife
to church I dare to go.
828
“This very day I’ll show thee
that I am fealty-free,
And that my man’s more worthy
than ever thine will be!
And I myself, moreover,
will not be slighted so:
Thou shalt to-day be witness
how I, thy vassal, go
829
To court before the warriors
of royal Burgundy.
I’ll prove myself more worthy
than e’er was known to be
Any princess whatever
who here hath worn the crown!”
Thus hate enough and envy
betwixt the dames was sown.
830
“Dost thou deny,” cried Brunhild,
“that thou our vassal art?
So must thou with thy women
keep from my train apart,
When I and my attendants
unto the minster go.”
To that Kriemhilda answer’d:
“In truth, it shall be so!”
831
“Now robe yourselves, my maidens,”
commanded Siegfried’s wife.
“For we no shame must suffer
whilst here we live our life;
That ye have rich apparel
ye must let all folk see.
She shall repent at leisure
what she hath said to me!”
832
There was small need to urge them:
they sought their richest gear,
And many a dame and maiden
right well-dight did appear.
When came with her attendants
the noble Gunther’s dame,
Then also in fine raiment
the fair Kriemhilda came.
833
With three and forty maidens,
whom she to Rhine had brought,
Who wore fine-woven silk stuffs
in Araby y-wrought.
So came unto the minster
the comely maidens all:
They found all Siegfried’s liegemen
waiting before the hall.
834
The people fell to marvel
how it had come about
That these two royal ladies
had plainly fallen out,
And went no more together,
as erewhile they were fain.
Therefrom befell hereafter
sore woe to many a thane.
835
King Gunther’s wife stood waiting
before the minster door;
The while much pleasant pastime
had many a warrior
With the fair waiting-women,
whom she with her did bring;
Then came the noble Kriemhild
with her brave following.
836
Such costume as the daughters
of noble knights might wear,
Compared with what her maids wore
was common as the air;
In gear she was so wealthy,
that thirty queens had shown
No such display of raiment
as this fair queen alone.
837
Had anyone been wishful
he never could have said
That any richer clothing
had e’er been worn of maid
Than on that day adornèd
her noble company:
Except to vex Brunhilda,
Kriemhild had let it be.
838
The two queens came together
before the minster wide,
And thereupon the hostess,
by hatred moved and pride,
With evil voice and gesture
Kriemhilda bade to stay:
“Before the queen a vassal
shall ne’er take right of way!”
839
Then spake the fair Kriemhilda:
(and wrathful was her mood)
“Couldst thou but have been silent,
for thee it had been good!
Thou hast disgraced thy beauty
and stain’d thy purity:
How should a shameless wanton
a king’s wife ever be?”
840
“Whom art thou calling ‘Wanton’?”
in answer cried the queen.
“That call I thee,” quoth Kriemhild’;
“thy body fair hath been
Woo’d first, not by thy husband,
but by my lord, Siegfried:
I trow ’twas not my brother
who won thy maidenhead!
841
“Where hadst thou left thy senses?
it was a trick of his.
Why didst thou let him woo thee,
who but thy liegeman is?
I hear thee,” said Kriemhilda,
“without all reason scold.”
“Now this, in truth,” cried Brunhild,
“shall be to Gunther told!”
842
“And why should that annoy me?
thy pride hath thee betray’d:
To cite me to thy service
by word thou hast essay’d.
This know now, of a surety
I grieve that it be so:
All confidence is over
for aye betwixt us two.”
843
Brunhilda wept, but Kriemhild
no longer tarried there;
Before the king’s wife passing,
with all her maidens fair,
She went into the minster:
such hate did this beget
That many bright eyes later
were sore bedimm’d and wet.
844
How much soe’er they worshipp’d,
by service and by song,
Unto the Queen Brunhilda
the time seem’d all too long:
So full she was of trouble,
in body and in mood.
For which hereafter suffer’d
bold warriors and good.
845
Brunhilda with her women
stay’d by the minster door;
She thought: “Now must Kriemhilda,
let me hear something more
Of what she rail’d so loudly—
the scolding, sharp-tongued wife!
If Siegfried hath been boasting,
’twill stand him in his life.”
846
Forth came the noble Kriemhild,
with many gallant men.
Dame Brunhild called unto her:
“Now stand you still again—
You said I was a wanton,
that shall you prove to me:
That word of yours, be certain,
hath stung me bitterly!”
847
Thereto said dame Kriemhilda:
“ ’Twere best to let me fare!
By this gold ring I’ll prove it,
which on my hand I wear;
’Twas brought to me by Siegfried
when by your side he lay.”
Ne’er yet had Queen Brunhilda
outlived a sadder day.
848
She spake: “This golden jewel
was from me stol’n away,
And hath from me most wrongly
been hidden many a day.
I now at last discover
who stole my ring from me!”
By this time were both ladies
in direst enmity.
849
Yet spake Kriemhilda further:
“I will not pass for thief!
Thou mightst have kept thy counsel,
to thee were honour lief.
This girdle be my witness,
that round my waist I wear,
That I am not a liar.
Ay! Siegfried was thy dear.”
850
The girdle she was wearing
was silk from Nineveh,
With precious stones for fastening,
right good it was to see.
When dame Brunhild beheld it
to weeping she did fall:
It must be told to Gunther
and to his lieges all.
851
Then spake the queen in answer:
“Go hence, and bring to me
The sovran-prince of Rhineland,
and from my lips shall he
Hear how his sister flouts me,
and slandereth my life,
By openly declaring
I have been Siegfried’s wife!”
852
The king came with his warriors;
and when the weeping eyes
He saw of his belov’d one,
he spake, in kindly wise:
“Now tell me, dearest lady,
who hath done aught to thee?”
Unto the king she answered:
“Aye joyless must I be!
853
“Kriemhilda of mine honour
would like to cozen me;
And, seeing she’s thy sister,
I make complaint to thee.
She swears I’ve played the wanton
with her own man, Siegfried.”
Then answer’d the King Gunther:
“She doth an evil deed!”
854
“She weareth here my girdle,
which I so long have lost,
My ring of red gold likewise.
To me ’tis bittermost
That e’er my mother bore me.
An’ thou wilt not disprove,
O king, this grievous scandal,
no longer thee I’ll love.”
855
Then up and spake King Gunther:
“Siegfried shall now appear;
If he hath play’d the braggart,
he shall the truth declare,
Or else deny the slander—
this knight of Netherland!”
Then did Kriemhilda’s husband
right soon before them stand.
856
As soon as he had look’d on
these dames discomfited,
(Naught knowing of the matter)
the noble Siegfried said:
“Why are these ladies weeping?
that am I fain to hear,
And wherefore I am bidden
before the King to appear?”
857
Then spake to him King Gunther:
“Right sorrowful am I;
To me my wife Brunhilda
hath told a history
That thou thyself hast boasted
her first love to have won:
Thy wife, Kriemhild, declareth
that thou, thane, this hast done.”
858
Then spake the noble Siegfried:
“And if she so hath said,
Before I rest I’ll see that
for this she be repaid!
In face of all your lieges
I’m ready to aver
By oath of mine most solemn,
I never told it her!”
859
Then spake the King of Rhineland:
“Give proof of that must thou!
The oath which thou dost offer,
if thou canst take it now,
From ev’ry untrue dealing
I’ll hold thee clear and free.”
Then in a ring around him
stood they of Burgundy.
860
His hand the gallant Siegfried
outstretched the oath to take.
Then spake the mighty sovran:
“So certain do I make
Of thy great innocency,
that I will thee acquit:
Sure what my sister charges
thou never didst commit.”
861
Yet once again spake Siegfried:
“And if she joy doth find
In that she hath so troubled
Brunhilda’s peace of mind,
My sorrow, of a surety,
too deep were to be told.”
Then look’d at one another
these ready knights and bold.
862
“So should one train one’s women,”
the hero Siegfried said,
“That suchlike haughty speeches
should aye be left unsaid:
Unto thy wife forbid them,
to mine I’ll do the same;
Such ill-advised behaviour
doth fill my heart with shame.”
863
By this dispute were many
fair women kept apart.
Brunhilda still the matter
so sorely took to heart
That needs must Gunther’s warriors
feel pity for the dame.
Then Hagen, knight of Tronjé,
unto his lady came.
864
He bade her say what ail’d her,
finding her weeping sore.
Then told she him the story,
and unto her he swore
That either Kriemhild’s husband
must for the lie repent
Or he himself thereafter
would never live content.
865
Ortwein and also Gernot,
in council join’d the twain;
And there the heroes plotted
how Siegfried should be slain.
And Giselher came likewise,
the noble Uté’s son;
When he had heard their saying,
he spake—the faithful one:
866
“Alack! ye gallant warriors,
now wherefore do ye that?
I trow that never Siegfried
deservèd such like hate,
That he, by reason of it,
should need to lose his life:
Ay, very trifles are they
that make an angry wife!”
867
“Are we to harbour cuckoos?”
cried Hagen, answering:
“To gallant knights as we are
scant honour that would bring!
That he of my dear lady
hath bragg’d so scurvily
His life shall make atonement;
or I myself will die.”
868
The king himself spake, saying:
“Naught hath he to us done
Save what is good and worthy;
so let his life alone.
What matter though the warrior
were hateful now to me?
He hath been ever faithful
and that right willingly.”
869
Then spake the warrior Ortwein,
who came from Metz, and said:
“His great strength, of a surety,
shall give him little aid.
If now my lord allow me,
short shrift of him I’ll make.”
Thus, without cause, the heroes
the part of foes did take.
870
But none went any further,
save Hagen, who for aye,
Was pressing upon Gunther
this counsel day by day:
That, if King Siegfried lived not,
to him would subject be
The broad lands that he governed;—
the king heard ruefully.
871
They let the matter rest; then
to jousting did they take.
Ha! many a sturdy lance-shaft
for Siegfried’s wife they brake
In shadow of the minster,
up to the royal hall!
Yet were some men of Gunther’s
but ill-content withal.
872
The king spake: “Lay aside now
this murd’rous hate and scorn;
Unto our weal and honour
he verily was born.
So fierce his strength is also,
this marvellous-bold knight,
Had he of this an inkling,
none durst withstand his might.”
873
“He’ll never know,” quoth Hagen,
“save thou should let it out!
I trow that I in secret
can bring it so about
That for Brunhilda’s weeping
sore reckoning he shall pay.
Yea, verily is Hagen
his enemy for aye.”
874
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“And how may that be done?”
And Hagen said in answer:
“That will I now make known.
We’ll bid two unknown envoys
to ride as from afar
Unto our land, ’fore all men
to challenge us to war.
875
“Then thou, before the guests, wilt
declare that thou must go
To battle, with thy liegemen;
and when he that doth know
He’ll offer you his service:
so shall he lose his life.
I’ll seek to learn his secret
from the bold warrior’s wife.”
876
Unto his vassal Gunther
in evil hour gave ear.
With treason foul to tamper,
ere any grew aware,
Began those chosen warriors
of chivalry the boast.
By wrangling of two women
was many a hero lost.
Adventure XV
How Siegfried Was Betrayed
877
Upon the fourth day morning
came two and thirty men
Unto the king’s court riding;
and word was carried then
To Gunther, the most mighty,
that he was call’d to war.
The lie cost many a woman
much grief and sorrow sore.
878
When leave to them was granted,
before the king they went,
And said that they were under
King Lud’ger’s government—
Who vanquish’d was aforetime
by doughty Siegfried’s hand,
And brought by him a captive
unto King Gunther’s land.
879
Then greeted he the heralds,
and bade them seated be.
But one among them pray’d him:
“Sire, let us stand, till we
Our message have deliver’d
and errand duly done:
Know then that thou art hated
by many a mother’s son!
880
“King Ludegast and Lud’ger,
do challenge you to war,
Of whom you were aforetime
the bloody conqueror:
They’re coming with their armies,
to ride thy country through.”
At this the king feign’d anger,
as if to him ’twere new.
881
They took these counterfeiters
to hostel presently.
How then could Siegfried ware be
of any treachery—
Could he or any other
suspect they played a part?
Unto themselves hereafter
befell the pain and smart.
882
The king with his advisers
were whispering without cease;
Nor would Hagen of Tronjé
e’er let him be at peace.
Though many a lord would gladly
have given up the plot,
Yet Hagen from his counsel
would never swerve a jot.
883
One day it chanced that Siegfried
came on this scheming band;—
And straight began to ask them
the Lord of Netherland:
“Why goes the king so sadly,
thus brooding with his men?
Hath any done him mischief,
I’ll help avenge it then.”
884
Then up and spake King Gunther:
“Cause have I sad to be!
For Ludegast and Lud’ger
have straightly challenged me:
The eyes of all shall see them
here riding in my land.”
Then cried the gallant hero:
“Right soon shall Siegfried’s hand,
885
“As doth beseem your honour,
this business undertake
To break these warriors’ power,
as it erewhile I brake:
Their strongholds shall be ruin’d,
their land be ravagèd,
Ere I with them have ended:
thereon I stake my head!
886
You may with all your warriors
at home stay quietly,
And let me ride to battle
with those who came with me.
That willingly I serve you,
you very soon shall know:
Your foes by me shall suffer
as ne’er before, I trow.”
887
“This is to me good hearing,”
the king in answer said—
As if he were in earnest
well-pleased to have his aid.
Before the knight low bow’d he—
the false and faithless knave!
Then said the noble Siegfried:
“No care you need to have!”
888
With their esquires and liegemen
they plann’d the journey then:
’Twas done for the deceiving
of Siegfried and his men.
He bade them all be ready,
his men of Netherland:
And soon had Siegfried’s warriors
their fighting gear at hand.
889
Then spake the gallant Siegfried:
“My father Siegmund, pray
Remain thou here behind us;
we shall not long delay;
If so be that God speed us,
we’ll come back to the Rhine.
So with the king abiding
shall happy days be thine!”
890
The banner they unfurlèd,
as though they fain would start.
Of Gunther’s liegemen present
there were a goodly part
Who naught knew of the message,
nor what it all did mean:
A mighty throng of people
round Siegfried there was seen.
891
Their helmets and their breastplates
on horses they did stow:
And many a stout knight hastened
to leave the land and go.
Then went Hagen of Tronjé
to where Kriemhild did stand,
And prayed for leave of absence,
since they would quit the land.
892
“Thrice happy I,” cried Kriemhild,
“that I have got for lord
One who to my dear kinsmen
such succour can accord,
As doth my dear lord Siegfried
unto my kindred here.
Therefore,” the queen said, “will I
be now of right good cheer.
893
“But you, my good friend Hagen,
one thing remember still;
That I would gladly serve you,
nor e’er have done you ill;
For this you can requite me
to my dear lord one day:
If I’ve done aught to Brunhild
for that he must not pay!
894
“For since then I have rued it,”
the noble lady said;
“He therefore hath my body
most sorely punishèd.
If I did ever utter
aught to enrage her mood,
Right well hath he avenged her,
the hero bold and good.”
895
“You yet shall be forgiven,
in days to come,” quoth he;
“Kriemhilda, my dear lady,
now must you tell to me
How through your husband Siegfried
to serve you I may try;
I’ll gladly do it, lady;
to none more willingly.”
896
“I should have no misgivings,”
replied the noble wife,
“Lest any one in battle
should jeopardize his life;
If he were not so reckless
and over-rash of mood
He aye might be in safety,
my gallant thane and good.”
897
Thereon said Hagen, “Lady,
if you have any fear
Lest any one should wound him,
’twere best to let me hear
The arts that I must practise
if any ill betide;
For I will ever guard him,
whether I walk or ride.”
898
She spake: “Thou art my kinsman,
as I, in sooth, am thine;
Therefore to thee I’ll trust him,
this darling love of mine,
That thou mayst guard him for me—
this husband of my own.”
Then told she him the story
’twere well he had not known.
899
She spake: “Bold is my husband
and strong enough thereto.
When he upon the mountain
erstwhile the dragon slew,
In the brute’s blood he bathed him,
the goodly warrior,
And since that day, in battle,
no steel can cut him more.
900
“Yet, no less am I anxious
when he in fight doth stand
And javelins fly around him
from many a hero’s hand,
Lest by mischance I lose him,
and mourn my husband dear.
Alas, what sorrow have I
for Siegfried’s sake to bear!
901
“I’ll tell it as a favour,
my dearest friend, to thee—
In faith that thou maintainest
the pledge thou gav’st to me—
Where, only, may be wounded
this husband dear of mine,
I’ll let thee hear, confiding
unto no ear but thine.
902
“When from the dragon’s death-wounds
came pouring the hot blood
And therein he was bathing
himself, the warrior good—
There fell between his shoulders
a large-sized linden-leaf:
On that spot one may wound him;
’tis this doth cause my grief.”
903
Then spake Hagen of Tronjé:
“Upon his garment sew
A little token for me,
that I the spot may know
Where I have got to shield him,
when we stand in the strife.”
She thought to save the hero:
by this he lost his life.
904
She spake: “With fine silk will I
upon his garment sew
A little cross unnoticed,
that so thy hand may know,
O hero, where to guard him,
when into fight he goes,
And in the stress of battle
he stands before his foes.”
905
“That will I do,” quoth Hagen,
“my lady dear.” Whereon
The lady thought some vantage
she for her lord had won:
And yet Kriemhilda’s husband
was by this means betray’d.
His leave then took Sir Hagen,
and went away right glad.
906
The king’s men and retainers
were all of cheerful mood.
And yet, I ween, no warrior
within his breast e’er could
Hide heart so false and perjured,
as he in his did hide
Upon whose faith and promise
Kriemhild the queen relied.
907
Upon the next day morning
with his own thousand men
Rode forth the gallant Siegfried:
and joyful was he then.
He thought he would take vengeance
for his friend’s injury.
To him rode Hagen closely
that he his coat might eye.
908
When he espied the token,
two of his following
He sent away in secret
another tale to bring:
How peace should not be broken
towards King Gunther’s land—
They had but come as envoys
by Ludeger’s command.
909
How loth turn’d Siegfried homewards;
he rode unwillingly,
Sad that his friend’s annoyance
thus unavenged should be!
Hardly could Gunther’s warriors
bring him to turn his ranks.
Unto the king straight rode he:
his host began his thanks.
910
“Now God reward thy goodwill,
my noble friend Siegfried!
That thou didst go so gladly
to help me in my need,
I aye shall be thy debtor,
as I of right should be.
Beyond all friends and kinsmen
I build my faith on thee.
911
“Now that this expedition
will trouble us no more,
I fain would go a-hunting
the wild bear and the boar
At Waskenwalde, yonder,
as I so oft have done.”
This was the plan of Hagen,
the false and faithless one.
912
“To all guests in my palace
due notice shall there be
That I will ride forth early:
those who would hunt with me
Must hold themselves all ready;
those who would rather stay
To loiter with the ladies
have my good leave alway.”
913
Then spake the stalwart Siegfried,
with noble courtliness:
“If you will ride a-hunting,
I’ll gladly do no less.
A huntsman you must lend me,
and sundry hounds also,
Then gladly to the forest
along with you I’ll go.”
914
“And dost thou want one only?”
the king said thereupon,
“I’ll lend thee, if it please thee,
four men to whom are known
The forest and the coverts
the quarry most frequent;
So that the tryst in seeking
thy time be not misspent.”
915
Home to his wife then rode he,
the goodly warrior bold,
And quickly faithless Hagen
unto the king had told
How he could get the vantage
of the brave thane: ’twere shame
Such treason foul should ever
disgrace a noble name.
Adventure XVI
How Siegfried Was Slain
916
King Gunther now and Hagen,
those knights exceeding bold,
Had treacherously plotted
a woodland hunt to hold.
With lances sharp pursuing
the boar in forest free,
The wild bull and the bear too:
what bolder sport could be?
917
With them rode Siegfried also,
in honourable mind.
They carried food, too, with them,
and that in divers kind.
Hard by a cool spring was he
foredoom’d to lose his life.
And this was by the counsel
of Brunhild, Gunther’s wife.
918
First went the bold thane thither
where he Kriemhilda found,
Already on pack-horses
his hunting-gear was bound,
And that of his companions:
to cross the Rhine they meant,
Kriemhilda ne’er before had
such reason to lament.
919
And then his own belovèd
he on the mouth did kiss:
“God grant that I may find thee,
my wife, safe, after this;
And that thine eyes may see me!
With good friends, till I come
Beguile the time of waiting,
I may not bide at home.”
920
Now thought she of the secret
she had to Hagen told:—
She did not dare to own it—
nor longer could withhold
The noble queen lamenting
that she had e’er been born!
For thus with grief unmeasured
did Siegfried’s fair wife mourn.
921
She spake unto the warrior:
“Ah, let your hunting be!
Last night I had an ill dream:
two wild boars I did see
That chased you o’er the moorland:
the flowers grew red as blood.
If I do weep thus sorely,
’tis that I bode no good.
922
“I have a sore misgiving
that there may be some plot:
Whether some grudge be owed us
for service rendered not,
Which may be bringing on us
dire hate and enmity?
Go not, dear lord, I beg thee
in truth and honesty.”
923
“My love, in but a few days
again I shall be here.
Nor know I of these people
one who ill-will doth bear;
To me at all times friendly
are all thy kith and kin:
Nor by these warriors elsewise
entreated have I been.”
924
“Nay, nay, my dear lord Siegfried,
I bode thy fate too well:
Last night my evil dreaming
told how upon thee fell
Two mountains in the valley;
I saw thee never more.
If thou wilt thus forsake me,
’twill wound me to the core.”
925
His wife so good and loving
he in his arms did press,
And cherish’d her fair body
with kisses numberless;
Then took his last leave of her,
and tore himself away;
Alas, no more she saw him
alive after that day!
926
Now rode they forth and came to
a deep and shady wood,
For sake of sport, and many
a warrior bold and good
Did follow after Gunther
and with his sportsmen roam.
But Giselher and Gernot,
they two remained at home.
927
And many horses, laden
with stores of bread and wine
Provided for the huntsmen,
went forward o’er the Rhine;
Both fish and flesh they carry,
and many another cate
Such as a king so wealthy
might duly have to eat.
928
They ordered their encampment,
these hunters proud, hard by
The greenwood’s skirts, where mostly
the quarry’s runs did lie
Which they to hunt were minded;
’twas on an eyot broad,
And thither too came Siegfried:
as straight the king had word.
929
The hunters then appointed
the watchers where to take
Their places at the openings.
Then he, the bold man, spake,
Siegfried the ever-stalwart,
“Who leads us through the wood,
To show us where the game is,
ye valiant thanes and good?”
930
“Suppose we part,” quoth Hagen,
“or ever we begin
To beat about the forest
to see what is therein.
That I and these my masters
may reason have to know
Who are the better sportsmen
that on this chase do go.
931
“The beaters and the hounds too,
we’ll evenly divide:
Thus each his choice may follow
where’er he please to ride.
Then he who is best sportsman
shall have our thanks therefore.”
So spake he, and the hunters
together stay’d no more.
932
Then said the noble Siegfried:
“The hounds I value not,
Save but a single setter,
who such a scent hath got
That he the track will follow
where’er the game hath led;
Here’s to a merry hunting!”
Kriemhilda’s husband said.
933
Thereon an aged huntsman
took with him a sleuth-hound,
And brought the noble hunters
to where much game they found
Without too long a-seeking.
The comrades then did hunt
Whatever broke from covert,
as sportsmen keen are wont.
934
Whate’er the setter mark’d him,
that slew with his own hand
Siegfried the doughty hero,
who came from Netherland.
His steed so swiftly bore him,
that naught could him outrun;
Praise above all the others
upon this chase he won.
935
In all he put his hand to
alert he was enow;
Of all the beasts, the first one
that he to death did do
An ox was, strong and savage,
that with his hand he fell’d;
And then he, on a sudden,
a lion grim beheld.
936
E’en as the hound aroused it
he with his bow let fly,
On which a sharpen’d arrow
he’d fitted hastily.
After the shot the lion
but three bounds further ran;
Whereon his hunting comrades
to thank Siegfried began.
937
There after he an elk slew,
and then a buffalo,
And then four sturdy bisons,
a savage stag also.
His steed so swiftly bore him
that naught could get away:
Of harts and hinds scarce any
there were he fail’d to slay.
938
A huge wild boar the sleuth-hound
had routed from his lair,
And when to flee he turn’d him
right in his path was there
The hero of the hunting,
all ready for the fight;
The savage brute did straightway
charge at the valiant knight.
939
This boar Kriemhilda’s husband
then with his broadsword slew:
The like no other huntsman
so easily could do.
And when he thus had felled him,
they put in leash the hound:
His goodly spoils were talk’d of
all Burgundy around.
940
Then spake to him his huntsmen:
“If ’tis for us to say,
Leave us, we pray, Lord Siegfried,
a few live beasts to slay!
To-day thou hast made empty
for us both wood and wold.”
Thereat he fell to smiling
that worthy thane and bold.
941
Then suddenly, on all sides,
were heard great noise and cries.
From dogs and men together
such tumult did arise
That all the woodland echoed,
and eke the mountain-side
For four-and-twenty leash-hounds
the hunters had untied.
942
Then many a forest creature
must unto death be done,
Since every hunter fancied
that he might be the one
To win the prize for hunting:
but no award could be
Until beside the camp-fire
stout Siegfried they did see.
943
The hunting, though ’twas over,
was not yet brought to end:
For some, with burdens laden,
to camp their way did wend,
Of beast fells bringing many,
and game a goodly store.
What piles of it for cooking
the king’s camp-servants bore!
944
Then to the high-born hunters
the king would have it known
That he to dine was ready.
Then all at once was blown
A hunting-horn, right loudly,
that all might know around
That now the noble princes
would at the camp be found.
945
Quoth one of Siegfried’s huntsmen:
“Sir, I have heard but now,
By sounding of a horn, that
’tis time for us to go
Back to the camp: in answer
I will my bugle wind.”
Then went the loud blasts flying
their followers to find.
946
Then spake the noble Siegfried:
“Now let us leave the wood!”
His hunter bore him smoothly:
and all in haste they rode.
They startled, with their clatter,
a grisly brute and grim—
A savage bear. Then, turning
to those who followed him,
947
The thane cried: “Now our comrades
a little fun shall share!
Loose from the leash the setter;
yonder I spy a bear;
I’ll see that he goes with us
from here unto the camp.
He never can escape us,
however fast he tramp!”
948
They loosed the hound, and swiftly
the bear before them hied.
Then thought Kriemhilda’s husband
close after him to ride;
But to a ground-rift came he,
whereby it could not be;
The sturdy beast made certain
’twas from the huntsmen free.
949
The proud knight, from his charger,
sprang down upon the sward:
And straight began to chase it;
the beast was off its guard,
And could not now outrun him:
the hero clasp’d it round,
And, in a trice, unwounded,
he held it tightly bound.
950
The man it was not able
to scratch or bite one jot!
He bound it to his saddle,
then promptly up he got.
Unto the camp he bore it—
a prize of hardihood;
Which all was but a pastime
to that knight bold and good.
951
How noble was his bearing
as into camp he rode!
His spear was very mighty,
and thereto stout and broad.
Right down unto the rowel
a handsome long-sword hung:
And a fair horn around him
of ruddy gold was slung.
952
Of better hunting-habit
I never have been told.
In tunic of black velvet
there was he to behold;
A riding-cap of sable,
handsome enough, he wore;
Ay, and what broider’d fillets
he on his quiver bore!
953
Upon it there was fitted
a cap of panther’s hide,
Because of its sweet odour.
He carried at his side
A bow, such that it needed—
to draw it to the full—
A hand-winch, when another
save he himself did pull.
954
And then his nether garments
of otter-skin were made.
From head to foot his raiment
with tufts was overlaid.
And, ’mid the sleek fur, many
a thread of golden twine
Of this bold champion-hunter
on either side did shine.
955
And Balmung bore he also—
a handsome blade and broad,
That was so sharp, moreover,
its edge was never scored
When helms by it were dinted;
and either edge was keen.
Ne’er had that noble huntsman
of gayer spirit been.
956
Since I have undertaken
the story to declare,
I must tell how his quiver
was fill’d with arrows rare;
The shafts of them were golden,
the points a hand-breadth wide.
Whate’er with them he piercèd,
surely and swiftly died.
957
So rode the noble hero
in all his hunting gear;
And Gunther’s men espied him
as he to them drew near.
They hurried out to meet him,
and led his horse along.
There lay across his saddle
the bear so huge and strong.
958
As soon as he alighted
he loosed the binding thong
From off its paws and muzzle;
then yelpings loud and long
Of hounds arose, so soon as
afoot the bear appear’d.
The brute would to the forest:
the folk were fairly scared.
959
The bear, through all the shouting,
into the kitchen ramp’d:
Hey, how the frighted scullions
from round the fire decamp’d!
The kettles toppled over,
the burning sticks were drown’d:
Hey, what a store of victuals
lay in the ashes round!
960
Quick from their seats upsprang they,
the masters and the men.
The bear began a-growling:
the king gave orders then
To let loose all the hound-pack,
that in their leashes lay.
Had it herewith but ended
that were a merry day!
961
With bows and spears provided
they stay’d no longer there,
But off the swift ones started
to follow up the bear.
Yet no one shot: so closely
the dogs were thronging round.
The shouting of the people
made hill and dale resound.
962
With all the pack behind him
the bear began to race,
But, save Kriemhilda’s husband,
no one could match its pace.
He quickly ran upon it,
and with a sword-stroke slew.
Then to the camp-fire, slaughter’d,
the grisly brute they drew.
963
And all who saw, were saying
he was a mighty man.
The hunters proud were summon’d,
and then the feast began.
Upon a fair green meadow,
a goodly crowd they sate;
Ha, ’twas a royal banquet
these haughty hunters ate!
964
The cupbearers still came not,
who were the wine to bring—
No heroes ever better
deserved such offering;
Had there not been in secret
such treacherous intent,
Then free had been those warriors
of all disparagement.
965
Then spake the noble Siegfried:
“I marvel much hereat;—
Since from the kitchen plenty
of food they send to eat,
Why come not the cupbearers
to bring us also wine?
Let them treat hunters better,
or ’tis no sport of mine!
966
“I have deserved that people
more care of me should take.”
The king then from the table,
in answer, falsely spake:
“However we have blunder’d
we’ll mend it by-and-by;
’Tis all the fault of Hagen,
who’d have us all go dry.”
967
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“My dear lord list to me,
I reckon’d that the hunting
to-day was fix’d to be
Right over in the Spessart,
so sent the wine-flasks there.
If we to-day go thirsty,
next time I’ll take more care!”
968
Then answer’d the lord Siegfried:
“Small thanks, methinks, are thine!
Seven sumpters’ burden should they
of mead and unmix’d wine
Have hither sent to meet us;
or were that hard to do,
They should have pitch’d our quarters
more nigh the Rhine unto.”
969
Then spake Hagen of Tronjé:
“Ye noble knights and bold,
I know that here hard by is
a spring of water cold—
Pray be ye not offended—
’tis thither we should go.”
To many a thane this counsel
was fraught with mickle woe.
970
With pangs of thirst was Siegfried
the warrior sorely smit:
The sooner then the table
he gave them word to quit;
Along the hill-side would he
unto the fountain wend.
Thus what the knights had plotted
drew on towards its end.
971
The game that had been slaughter’d
by Siegfried’s cunning hand,
They bade men pile on wagons,
and carry through the land.
And everyone who saw it
his praise and honour spake.
Right grievously did Hagen
his troth to Siegfried break.
972
Whilst to the shady lindens
they were upon their way,
Cried Hagen, lord of Tronjé:
“Oft have I heard men say
That to Kriemhilda’s husband
no one a match could be
When he would show his paces:
ay! will he let us see!”
973
Then spake the Netherlander
Siegfried, the valiant:
“Now is the time for trying,
if ye a wager want,
From here unto the fountain;
so soon as it be done
The onlookers shall settle
which is the foremost one.”
974
“Now verily we’ll try it,”
the warrior Hagen said.
Then quoth the stalwart Siegfried:
“If ye come in ahead,
Before your feet I’ll lay me
full length upon the grass.”
When Gunther heard the promise,
how glad at heart he was!
975
Then spake the bold thane further:
“Yet something more I’ll say,
I’ll carry all the clothing
that I have worn to-day—
My spear and eke my buckler,
and all my hunting gear.”
His sword and quiver bound he
around him then and there.
976
But they, the king and Hagen,
their upper clothes did doff:
In two white shirts one saw them
stand ready to be off.
As fleet as two wild panthers
they through the clover ran:
Yet at the spring bold Siegfried
came in the foremost man.
977
In all he put his hand to
he won the prize from all.
Straightway his sword he loosen’d
and let his quiver fall;
Against a bough of linden
he let his stout spear rest;
Close by the flowing fountain
now stood the stately guest.
978
And herein also Siegfried
did manifest his worth:
He laid his shield beside him
where flow’d the fountain forth,
But, greatly as he thirsted,
the hero tasted not
Before the king had drunken:
base thanks from him he got.
979
Cool was the spring of water,
and clean, and bright, and good;
And Gunther bent him downwards
to the refreshing flood;
As soon as he had quenchèd
his thirst, away he came;
Then ready was bold Siegfried
and would have done the same.
980
His courtesy and breeding,
then met with their reward:
For Hagen to the background
withdrew his bow and sword.
Then back again ran quickly
to where he found the spear,
And looked to find a token
the hero’s coat did bear.
981
And whilst the noble Siegfried
drank of the rippling flood
He stabb’d him through the cross-mark,
and through the wound his blood
Straight from his heart outspurted,
and Hagen’s shirt was wet;
So foul a misdeed never
befell a hero yet.
982
He left the lance within him
close to his heart stuck tight;
And grimly then did Hagen
betake himself to flight,
As in his life he never
from mortal man did flee.
The stalwart Siegfried, feeling
how sorely smit was he,
983
All madly from the fountain
in rage and anguish sprang,
Whilst from between his shoulders
a long lance-shaft did hang.
The chieftain thought to find there
his bow, or else his sword:
Then verily had Hagen
not gone without reward.
984
But when the knight sore-wounded
his sword had fail’d to find,
And saw that they had left him
naught save his shield behind,
He gripp’d it from the well’s side,
and after Hagen ran:
Then vainly to escape him
essay’d King Gunther’s man.
985
Though he to death was wounded,
so mightily smote he,
That from the hero’s buckler
there fell abundantly
The precious stones that deck’d it;
the shield itself did break;
The noble guest his vengeance
was fain enow to wreak.
986
Yet by his hand must Hagen
lie stretch’d upon the ground.
So hard, in sooth, his blows were,
they made the glebe resound.
Had he his sword had handy,
then Hagen had been slain.
The wound was burning sorely,
and made him writhe with pain.
987
His cheeks had lost their colour;
no longer stand could he,
And all his strength of body
was failing utterly;
Death’s sign upon his forehead
in pallid hue he bore:
Fair women soon were mourning
for him with weeping sore.
988
Then fell Kriemhilda’s husband
upon the flowery sward:
One saw from out the lance-wound,
how fast his life-blood pour’d.
Upbraiding then began he—
forced by his mortal pain—
Those who had thus betray’d him
and treacherously slain.
989
“Ye perjured, lying cowards,”
the dying warrior said,
“What hath avail’d my service,
since thus ye strike me dead?
To you aye was I faithful:
and thus do ye repay!
Your kith and kin shall suffer
for what ye’ve wrought this day.
990
“The children born unto ye
shall be, from this day forth,
For evermore accursèd,
for ye have wreak’d your wrath,
And vengeance all too sorely
upon my body done:
Now ye, with scorn and hatred,
all worthy knights shall shun.”
991
The knights all ran together
to where he stricken lay.
To many a man among them
it was a joyless day.
They who had aught of honour
sore lamentation made.
From all he well deserved it,
this hero undismay’d.
992
The king of the Burgundians
mourn’d also for his death.
Then spake the dying chieftain:
“Small need is there, in faith,
That he who work’d the evil
should grieve that it be done:
Much blame he hath deservèd:
’twere better left alone!”
993
Grim Hagen spake to Gunther:
“What art thou weeping for?
For done is our vexation
and all our sorrows o’er:
We shall find few henceforward
who ’gainst us dare to stand.
Glad am I that his kingship
hath perish’d by my hand!”
994
“ ’Tis easy now to vaunt ye,”
said Siegfried, in reply,
“If I had known beforehand
your deadly enmity,
Alone would I against ye
have well maintain’d my life:
For naught grieve I so sorely
as for Kriemhild, my wife.
995
“And now must God forgive me,
that I a son did get
Whom folks shall taunt in future
and let him not forget
That kin of his by some one
was murderously slain.
If that avail’d,” said Siegfried,
“right well might I complain.”
996
Yet once more spake the hero,
in anguish nigh to death:
“If thou, O king most noble,
art willing to hold faith
With any living being,
I fain would now consign
Unto your grace and favour,
that well-loved wife of mine.
997
“And let her from this profit,
that thou her brother art:
If there is faith in princes,
stand by her with true heart.
My father and my liegemen
must tarry long for me;
Ne’er worse to any woman
could loss of dear friend be.”
998
All round about, the flowers
were wetted with his blood,
As now with Death he struggled:
nor long the strife withstood.
Alas, the deadly weapon
too well had done its part!
Then mote he speak no further,
that warrior of bold heart.
999
And when the nobles saw that
the hero was quite dead,
Upon a shield they laid him,
that was of wrought gold red;
And straightway held they counsel
how they might best take heed
From all to keep it hidden
that Hagen did the deed.
1000
Then divers of them counsell’d:
“Woe hath befallen us,
But ye must all conceal it,
and tell the story thus:
‘As Dame Kriemhilda’s husband
alone a-hunting rode,
Some vagabonds set on him
and slew him in the wood.’ ”
1001
Then spake of Tronjé Hagen:
“Myself I’ll take him home,
It matters not to me that
the truth to her should come:
Brunhilda’s mind hath sorely
by her been harassèd,
It troubles me but little
what tears she now may shed!”
Adventure XVII
How Kriemhilda Mourn’d for Her Husband, and How He Was Buried
1002
Then waited they for nightfall,
and o’er the Rhine did row:
Ne’er to more direful ending
could heroes hunting go.
The quarry they had slaughter’d
mourn’d noble maids and wives:
And many goodly warriors
paid for it with their lives.
1003
Of arrogance o’erweening
the tale ye soon shall hear,
And of a fearful vengeance.
Then Hagen bade men bear
The body of dead Siegfried,
the Niblung lord of late,
And lay it in a chamber
wherein Kriemhild did wait.
1004
He had him laid in secret
down close beside her door,
That she might find him lying
when she, as heretofore,
Went forth to matins early,
ere daylight had begun;
Which duty dame Kriemhilda
but seldom left undone.
1005
The wonted bell was ringing,
which to the minster bade;
Then rose the fair Kriemhilda
and waken’d many a maid:
She bade them bring a taper,
and fetch her all her gear.
Then came a chamber-servant
who lit on Siegfried there.
1006
In red blood he was lying,
and all his garb was wet;
But that it was his master
he did not know as yet.
Into the room he carried
the candle in his hand,
From him did Dame Kriemhilda
some ill news understand.
1007
For, as she with her women
would to the minster fare,
The chamberlain spake to her:
“My lady, stay you there!
Right opposite the doorway
a murder’d knight doth lie.”
Whereat began Kriemhilda
to weep unmeasuredly.
1008
Before she knew for certain
that ’twas her husband dead,
Unto her mind recall’d she
how Hagen questionèd
In what way he might guard him:
then first she was afraid.
An he were dead, her pleasure
was all to sorrow made.
1009
To earth down sank she swooning,
and ne’er a word could say:
Upon the hapless fair one
men gazed as there she lay.
The grief of Dame Kriemhilda
was past all measuring:
After her swoon, the chamber
did with her wailing ring.
1010
Her people said unto her:
“What if it be a guest?”
But from her mouth came flowing
the blood, by anguish press’d;
Then spake she: “ ’Tis my husband,
my own belov’d Siegfried:
It was Brunhilda’s counsel,
and Hagen did the deed.”
1011
The lady bade them lead her
where she her hero found.
With her white hand she lifted
his fair head from the ground;
Red as he was with blood-stains,
well knew she him again.—
There lay the Niblung hero,
so pitifully slain.
1012
Then in her sorrow cried she,
that fair and gentle queen:
“Woe on mine evil fortune!
Upon thy shield is seen
No dint of any sword-stroke:
thou liest murder’d there.
And wist I who hath done it,
of death mote he be ware.”
1013
Thereon all her attendants
began to wail and weep:
With their belovèd lady,
their grief indeed was deep
About their noble master,
of whom they were forlorn.
Thus heavily had Hagen
made good Brunhilda’s scorn.
1014
Then sorrowfully spake she:
“Go hence now, all of ye,
And waken Siegfried’s liegemen
as quickly as may be.
And unto Siegmund also
my sorrow must ye tell,
If so be he will help me
to mourn brave Siegfried well.”
1015
A messenger ran swiftly
and found them where they lay—
Siegfried’s own band of heroes
from Niblung land were they.
He told the grievous tidings,
and joy fled at his word;
Yet would they not believe it
till they the wailing heard.
1016
The messenger sped further
to where he found the king.
Unto the noble Siegmund
that night no sleep did bring;
His heart within foreboded
what happ’d to him, I ween:
How that his dear son living
should never more be seen.
1017
“Awake, arise, Lord Siegmund!
Kriemhilda, my mistress,
Hath bidden me to fetch thee;
to her a sore distress
Hath happ’d beyond all others,
which cuts her to the heart:
And thou must help her mourning,
for thou in it hast part.”
1018
Upstarted Siegmund, crying:
“What grief hath happenèd
Unto the fair Kriemhilda,
as thou just now hast said?”
Then spake the herald, weeping,
“I cannot it withhold:
Ay! Siegfried hath been murder’d,
the Netherlander bold!”
1019
Then spake the noble Siegmund:
“Pray let this jesting be,
And of such evil stories,
beware, for love of me,
The like you tell to no man—
how Siegfried hath been slain:
In such case could I never
live happily again.”
1020
“If thou wilt not believe me
when thou hast heard my tale,
With thine own ears ’tis easy
to hear Kriemhilda wail;
For she and all her people
are mourning Siegfried dead.”
Then sore afraid was Siegmund:
and sad was he indeed.
1021
Straight from his couch upsprang he,
with five score of his men;
They reach’d their hands in search of
their weapons long and keen,
And ran, grief-stricken, thither
to where they heard the cries;
Then, too, the thousand warriors
of Siegfried bold did rise.
1022
Whilst piteously the women
were heard to weep and moan,
Some of the men bethought them
that raiment they should don:
Ay, scarcely for their trouble
could they their senses keep.
And bitter was the anguish
that in their hearts lay deep.
1023
Soon came the royal Siegmund
to where Kriemhild did stand.
He spake: “Woe on the journey
that brought us to this land
Who hath thy husband taken,
and reft me of my son,
And, amidst friends and kinsmen,
thus murderously done?”
1024
“Ah, if I only knew him!”
the noble wife did say,
“No mercy would I show him,
in mind or body aye:
Such evil would I do him,
that if his kith and kin
Had not good cause for weeping,
’twould be no fault of mine.”
1025
Then in his arms did Siegmund
the murder’d prince enfold;
Whereat his friends their sorrow
so little could withhold,
That with their lamentation
the palace rang and hall;
And even through Worms city,
the sounds of woe did fall.
1026
To none who strove to comfort
did Siegfried’s wife give heed.
Meanwhile from out its clothing
his body fair they freed;
They washed his wounds with water,
and laid him on the bier;
The sorrow of his people
right grievous was to hear.
1027
Then up and spake his warriors
the men of Niblung-land:
“With right goodwill shall vengeance
be taken at our hand;
Within this very fortress
is he who did the deed.”
Then ran they all for weapons
the liegemen of Siegfried.
1028
These thanes, for valour chosen,
each with his shield, were there,
A thousand and one hundred,
ready at hand they were
To follow noble Siegmund.
The murder of his son
He to avenge was eager—
’twas needful to be done.
1029
Nor knew they ’gainst what foemen
they had to strive withal,
Unless it might be Gunther
and his bold liegemen all,
With whom their master Siegfried,
did late a-hunting go.
Kriemhilda saw them arming,
and grievous was her woe.
1030
However deep her sorrow,
and dire as was her need,
Yet did she for the Niblungs
fear with such mighty dread
Death, by her brother’s liegemen,
that she would have them stay:
She warn’d them in all kindness,
as friends each other may.
1031
Thus spake the grief-lorn lady;
“My lord Siegmund, what dost
Thou think to take in hand now?
Thou hast not weigh’d the cost.
King Gunther hath so many
bold warriors at command,
That all of ye will perish
if ye his knights withstand.”
1032
With shields already lifted,
they needs must to the fray;
The noble queen besought them
and even bade them stay,
And seek not for a conflict—
these knights of courage high.
Yet would they not forego it;
which grieved her verily.
1033
So said she: “Noble Siegmund,
’twere best to let it be
Until a fitter season:
then will I readily
Avenge with you mine husband.
Who me hath widow made,
To him, when it is proven,
shall evil be repaid.
1034
“Hereby upon the Rhine-strand
dwells many a haughty knight:
I cannot therefore counsel
that you with them should fight.
Full thirty warriors have they
against our every one.
God grant that they may prosper
as they to us have done!
1035
“Ye must remain beside me,
this grief with me to share;
And, when the day is dawning,
ye heroes bold prepare
To help me in his coffin
my husband dear to lay.”
Then all the thanes made answer:
“It shall be as you say.”
1036
No tongue could ever tell you
the marvel of it, how
From knights as well as ladies
arose the cries of woe,
So that throughout the city
the noise thereof did sound.
The noble burghers heard it,
and quickly throng’d around.
1037
They mournèd with the strangers,
for they themselves were sad.
If fault had been with Siegfried,
none told them that it had,
Nor why the noble warrior
had forfeited his life.
Then wept, too, with the women,
each worthy burgher’s wife.
1038
The smiths were bidden quickly
a coffin to devise
Of gold y-wrought and silver,
strong and of mickle size;
They bade them firmly bind it,
with temper’d steel and good.
Then truly all the people
were sorrowful of mood.
1039
The night was spent, and daylight
’twas said would soon appear.
The noble lady bade them
unto the minster bear
Siegfried their noble master,
her husband well-beloved.
One saw his friends all weeping,
as they the body moved.
1040
They brought him to the minster,
and toll’d was many a bell:
On every side the chanting
of priests was heard to swell.
And thither came King Gunther,
and all his folk with him,
To take part in the mourning;
and likewise Hagen grim.
1041
He said: “My dearest sister,
alas, indeed, for thee!
That from thy sorrow’s burden
can none of us be free:
We must bewail for ever
the loss of Siegfried’s life.”
“That do ye without reason,”
answer’d the mourning wife.
1042
“It never need have happen’d
if real your sorrow were;
Me must ye have forgotten—
that may I well aver—
When I was there bereft of
my own belovèd one.
I would to God,” said Kriemhild,
“it had to me been done!”
1043
They clave unto their lying.
Kriemhild began again:
“Whoso of you is guiltless,
now let him make it plain;—
Let each before the people
walk up unto the bier;
Thereby the truth that’s in him
shall presently appear.”
1044
It is a wondrous marvel
that oft hath happenèd:
That when one sees the slayer
beside the murder’d dead,
The wounds afresh start bleeding;
as here, too, came to pass.
Whereby men saw that Hagen
the malefactor was.
1045
Again the wounds bled freely,
as they had done afore;
They who had mourn’d him sorely
bewail’d him now the more.
Then spake aloud King Gunther:
“I tell you everyone
’Twas vagabonds that slew him:
’twas not by Hagen done.”
1046
“These vagabonds, too surely
are known to me,” she spake,
“By friendly hands, God willing,
we’ll vengeance on them take!
Thou Gunther and thou Hagen
have surely done this thing.”
By this time Siegfried’s warriors
for strife were hankering.
1047
Kriemhilda spake yet further:
“Now share with me my need.”
Then came those twain unto her
who found him lying dead—
They were her brother Gernot
and Giselher the youth.
As many a man did later,
these mourn’d for him in sooth.
1048
With all their hearts they mourn’d him,
the husband of Kriemhild.
Now masses must be chanted:
the minster soon was fill’d
With men, and wives, and children—
from every side they came.
E’en they who little miss’d him
mourn’d Siegfried all the same.
1049
Gernot, and Giselher with him,
spake: “Sister dear to me,
Now, for this death, take comfort,
as verily must be.
We will atone unto you
as long as we shall live.”
Yet on the earth was no one
who could her comfort give.
1050
His coffin was made ready
well-nigh about midday;
Then from the bier they raised him,
whereon till then he lay.
Fain would the noble lady
have kept him from the grave;
Which unto her attendants
sore trouble surely gave.
1051
In richly broider’d vestment
they wrapp’d the body round,
And then, I ween, that no one
unweeping there was found.
With all her heart wept Uté—
a noble woman she—
And each of her attendants
the goodly corpse to see.
1052
When people heard the chanting
within the church begin,
And knew that he was coffin’d,
they throng’d to enter in:
For his soul’s weal and profit
what offerings were made!
In sooth, among the foemen
good friends enough he had!
1053
Kriemhilda, the poor lady,
said to her chamberlain:
“The love they bear towards me
will be to them a bane,
Seeing they grudge him nothing
and hold me also dear;
For Siegfried’s weal ’tis fitting
that they his gold should share.
1054
There was no child so little,
who any wit might have,
But join’d in the almsgiving,
ere he was laid in grave.
More than a hundred masses
were sung ere day was done
And Siegfried’s friends and kinsmen
came thronging ev’ry one.
1055
When ended was the chanting
the people went away.
Then spake the lady Kriemhild:
“Ye must not let me stay
Alone to watch beside him,
this knight exceeding brave.
My joys are, with his body,
all buried in the grave.
1056
“Three days and three nights longer
here would I keep him still,
Until of my dear husband
my heart has had its fill.
Then what if God should order
that death should take me too?
Then would poor Kriemhild’s sorrows
no longer trouble you.”
1057
The people from the city
now homewards went their way.
The priests and monks Kriemhilda
besought with her to stay,
And eke her own attendants,
to watch beside the knight.
Forbidding was the darkness
and wearisome the light.
1058
From eating and from drinking
did many a man abstain.
If any cared to take it,
to them it was made plain
That they might have in plenty:
Siegmund of that took care.
And yet, full many a labour
the Niblung-folk must share:
1059
For three whole days, unceasing—
the story thus we hear—
They who had skill in singing
must needs the burden bear
Of chanting many an office.
What alms to them folk paid!
They who were poor aforetime
now wealth in plenty had.
1060
Whene’er they found poor people
who nothing had to bring,
They sent them to the minster,
with gold for offering
From Siegfried’s treasure taken.
Since life he could not have,
Of marks for his soul’s welfare
they many thousand gave.
1061
The first-fruits were divided
in all the land around,
Wherever cloister-houses
or goodly folk were found.
Of silver and of raiment
the poor got ample store:
Men did the like as showing
what love to him they bore.
1062
Upon the third day early,
just at the hour of Mass,
The churchyard wide extending—
that by the minster was—
With country-people’s wailing
was fill’d from end to end.
In death they did him service,
as to a well-loved friend.
1063
In those four days of mourning,
indeed, it hath been said,
That marks full thirty-thousand,
or even more, were paid
For sake of his soul’s welfare,
and given to the poor.
Laid low was all his beauty,
his life was now no more.
1064
When God was servèd duly,
and all the chants were sung,
A dreadful cry of sorrow
arose from out the throng;
Out of the minster must they
now bear him to his grave.
Those who were loth to lose him
fresh tears and cries forth gave.
1065
With cries of lamentation
the people follow’d then;
The faces all were joyless
of women and of men.
Ere in his grave they laid him
they sang and read withal;
Ay! and the priests were worthy
who gave him burial.
1066
Or ever Siegfried’s widow
had come unto the grave,
Her faithful heart with sorrow
such bitter strife did have
That they must needs revive her
with water from the spring;
Her bitterness of sorrow
was past all measuring.
1067
It was a mickle wonder
that strength again she found.
With cries of pity, helping,
the women throng’d around.
Then spake the Queen: “O liegemen
of Siegfried, hearken ye!
I pray you of your fealty
a favour grant to me—
1068
“That after all my sorrow
this small grace I may gain,
And on his goodly features
may set my eyes again.”
So long did she beseech them,
with all her sorrow’s strength,
That they the splendid coffin
must break apart at length.
1069
And then they brought the lady
to where her love did lie,
And she his fair head lifted,
with white hand tenderly,
And in his death she kiss’d him—
the noble knight and good;
Her shining eyes, for sorrow,
were weeping tears of blood.
1070
It was a piteous parting,
if ever there was one.
And so away they bore her;
she could not go alone,
For in a swoon and senseless
that noble wife lay low;
Her life, for weal appointed,
was well-nigh lost in woe.
1071
When now their noble master
within his grave was laid,
Unmeasured was the sorrow
that all his followers had,
Who from the Niblung country
had borne him company;
And little joy or gladness
in Siegmund was to see.
1072
Amongst them there were many
who, for their sorrow’s sake,
Till those three days were ended
nor meat nor drink did take.
Yet could they not their bodies
abandon utterly:
So feasting follow’d sorrow,
as evermore will be.
Adventure XVIII
How Siegmund Went Back to His Own Land
1073
Kriemhilda’s husband’s father
had to her presence come.
And to the queen thus spake he:
“We now would fain go home,
I trow that we in Rhineland,
unwelcome guests must be.
Kriemhilda, dearest lady,
come to my land with me.
1074
“Since that your noble husband,
by treason underhand,
Hath from us all been taken
here in this very land,
You must not overlook it:
I will be kind to you
For love of my son Siegfried;
doubt not that this is true.
1075
Henceforward also, Lady,
to you the power I’ll yield
That the bold warrior Siegfried
did teach you how to wield.
The land and the crown likewise
shall subject be to you;
And all of Siegfried’s vassals
will gladly service do.”
1076
Then were the servants bidden
that thence they were to ride;—
It was a mighty business
the horses to provide!
Amidst their bitter foemen
to dwell were sorry cheer.
They bade the dames and maidens
to seek their travelling gear.
1077
And when King Siegmund also
was ready forth to ride,
The kinsmen of Kriemhilda
besought her to abide:
Her place was with her mother,
and there to stay ought she.
Then spake the noble lady:
“Nay, that can hardly be!
1078
“How could I bear for ever
him with these eyes to see,
Through whom to me, poor woman,
hath come such misery?”
Then Giselher, the youthful,
made answer: “Sister dear,
For duty’s sake now shouldst thou
bide with thy mother here.
1079
“Of them who have distress’d
thee, and brought thee to despair,
Thou dost require no service;
my fortune thou shalt share.”
But to the knight she answer’d:
“Nay, this can never be;
I needs must die of sorrow
if I should Hagen see.”
1080
“I’ll see that doth not happen,
my sister dear,” quoth he,
“With Giselher thy brother
in safety shouldst thou be;
Amends will I make to thee,
for thy dear husband’s death.”
Then spake the poor forlorn one:
“True need Kriemhilda hath!”
1081
When this so kindly offer
to her the young man made,
Uté and also Gernot
fell likewise to persuade,
With all her faithful kinsfolk:
they begged her not to go:
For amongst Siegfried’s kindred
not many did she know.
1082
“They are all strangers to thee,”
Gernot began to say;
“So strong is no man living
but he must die one day.
Bethink thee then, dear sister,
and comfort thy sad mood;
Stay with thy friends and kinsmen:
it will be for thy good.”
1083
So Giselher she promised
that there she would abide.
The horses all were ready
for Siegmund’s men to ride—
Who would be homeward riding
unto the Niblung-land;
The pack-horses all laden
with knightly gear did stand.
1084
Lord Siegmund came, and standing
before Kriemhilda, then
Said he unto the lady:
“The whole of Siegfried’s men
Await you by the horses;
’tis time we rode away—
For willingly I would not
with the Burgundians stay.”
1085
But lady Kriemhild’ answer’d:
“My friends their counsel give—
So many as are faithful—
that I with them should live:
For I have ne’er a kinsman
within the Niblung-land.”
Sad was the heart of Siegmund
when he did understand.
1086
Then answer’d her King Siegmund:
“Let that be said by none!
Rather than to my kinsmen
I’ll give to you my crown.
With power and might you’ll wear it,
as you have done before;
You shall be none the worse that
our hero is no more.
1087
“Come back with us, if only
it were for your child’s sake:
You surely will not, lady,
the babe an orphan make.
When once your son a man is
he’ll comfort your sad mood;
Meanwhile you’ll have the service
of many heroes good.”
1088
She spake: “Sir Siegmund, truly
I cannot with you ride.
Whate’er may happen to me
here must I still abide
Among my friends and kinsfolk,
and mourn with me they will.”
The good knights at this answer
began to take it ill.
1089
With one accord they answer’d:
“Then must we fain confess
That for the first time, truly,
our hearts knew bitterness,
Since you indeed are willing
here with our foes to bide:
On such a grievous journey
did heroes never ride.”
1090
Said she: “Ye may, God-speeding,
without foreboding fare:
Safe-conduct shall be given—
of that I’ll have a care—
From here to Siegmund’s country.
As for my darling child,
Unto ye knights I trust him,
and to your mercies mild!”
1091
When they were well persuaded
that thence she would not go,
The lieges all of Siegmund
did weep for very woe.
How full of bitter sorrow
was Siegmund when his leave
He took of dame Kriemhilda!
Then knew he how to grieve.
1092
“Woe be on these great doings,”
the noble king quoth he:
“An ending worse of pleasure
there ne’er again can be
To king or to his kinsfolk,
than this to us has been.
No more shall we henceforward
in Burgundy be seen.”
1093
Then loud, that all might hear them,
the men of Siegfried spake:
“Yet once again the journey
may we to this land make,
When we shall have discover’d
who laid our master low.
They’ll have among his kinsfolk
stout enemies enow!”
1094
And so he kiss’d Kriemhilda;
and mournfully did say,
Whenas he saw for certain
she had a mind to stay:
“Now will we unrejoicing
go home unto our land.
My sorrow for the first time
now do I understand.”
1095
From Worms without an escort
unto the Rhine they rode;
Well might they, notwithstanding,
be confident of mood,
That if they should of foemen
an onset have to ward,
The hands of stalwart Niblungs
would serve them for a guard.
1096
Leave did they take of no man
ere they set forth to ride.
But Giselher and Gernot
were presently espied
All kindly coming t’wards him:
his sorrow made them grieve,
As soon these gallant heroes
did bring him to believe.
1097
For then the princely Gernot
right courteously said:
“Be God in Heaven my witness!
that Siegfried now is dead
Is through no fault on my part,
nor have I heard men tell
Who wish’d him any evil:
so can I mourn him well.”
1098
Then had they a safe-conduct
at Giselher’s own hand:
And carefully he led them
in time, from out the land.
The king and all his warriors
to Netherland got home.
How little could their kindred
rejoice to see them come!
1099
And what befell them after
I cannot rightly say.
And still one heard Kriemhilda
bewailing day by day
That none could give her comfort,
in either heart or mood,
But Giselher, who only
was true to her and good.
1100
The beauteous Brunhilda
still arrogantly sat:
Howe’er Kriemhilda fretted
she took no thought for that,
And never more in goodwill
did turn to her again.
Erelong the dame Kriemhilda
did wring her heart with pain.
Adventure XIX
How the Nibelung Hoard Was Brought to Worms
1101
Now when the noble Kriemhild
a widow thus was made
Count Eckewart was with her,
and in the land he stay’d
With all his men, and daily
he served her without fail,
And helped his lady often
his master to bewail.
1102
At Worms, hard by the minster,
they built for her a hall:
’Twas very wide and lofty,
and richly deck’d withal.
There, with her own attendants,
all joylessly sat she.
She loved the church’s service
and went there willingly.
1103
From where her love lay buried,
she seldom was away;
With sorrow-laden spirit
she went there every day.
She prayed to God Almighty
to keep his soul aright.
And faithfully and often
bewailèd was the knight.
1104
Uté and all her women
to cheer her aye were fain;
Yet was the heart within her
so sorely smit with pain,
However they might comfort
she took not any heed.
She had for her belovèd
such all-surpassing need,
1105
As for a well-loved husband
no other wife ere found.
Thus might one see how virtues
in her did much abound.
Unto her end she mourn’d him,
as long as she had life,
And soon a mighty vengeance
took valiant Siegfried’s wife!
1106
So after all this sorrow—
’tis truth—she did abide
Until the fourth year’s halving
from when her husband died;
Nor all this time ’twixt Gunther
and her did speech arise,
Nor did she once on Hagen,
her enemy, set eyes.
1107
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“Could you not so contrive
That you might with your sister
in friendly fashion live?
That so unto this country
might come the Niblung gold:
If but the queen were friendly,
your gain were manifold.”
1108
He said: “We must attempt it;
my brothers are with her;
We’ll beg them so to urge her
that she be friendlier,
Until at last prevail we
that she thereto agree.”
Quoth Hagen: “I misdoubt me
that that will ever be.”
1109
He presently bade Ortwein
unto her court to go
Likewise the margrave Gere:
and both of them did so.
And Giselher the youthful
and Gernot, too, they brought,
Who straightway Dame Kriemhilda
in friendly wise besought.
1110
To her the valiant Gernot
of Burgundy then said:
“Too long hast thou, O Lady,
bewail’d thy Siegfried dead!
The king to you will swear that
by him he was not slain.
Still day by day one hears thee
so bitterly complain.”
1111
Said she: “None doth accuse him:
’twas Hagen’s hand that slew;
And where he might be stricken
from me alone he knew.
How could I have believed that
such hate to him he bore?
More care would I have taken”—
the Queen said furthermore—
1112
“Ere any word of mine had
his noble life betray’d:
Then little cause for weeping
should I, poor wife, have had.
No more can I have kindness
for those who this have done.”
Then Giselher besought her,
the brave and comely one.
1113
“To greet the king I’m willing,”
she did at last declare:
With his best friends before her
one saw him soon appear.
But Hagen durst at no time
within her presence go
His guiltiness well knew he;
’twas he who wrought her woe.
1114
Since she her hate to Gunther
was willing to forswear,
’Twould better have beseem’d him
to kiss her then and there.
Were’t not that by his counsel
her sorrows had been made,
He might have met Kriemhilda
with boldness undismay’d.
1115
Ne’er was a reconcilement,
when friend by friend was met,
More tearfully accomplish’d:
her sorrow rankled yet.
Save only one amongst them,
she pardon’d every one:
He ne’er were slain, if Hagen
the murder had not done.
1116
Not very long thereafter
they brought it so about
That unto dame Kriemhilda
the mighty hoard came out
Of Niblung-land, and safely
was to the Rhine conveyed.
It was her wedding dowry,
and rightly hers was made.
1117
’Twas Gernot who went for it,
and with him Giselher
And eighty-hundred liegemen,
who had commands from her
To go and fetch the treasure
from where it lay unseen,
Since Alberich its keeper,
with trusty friends, had been.
1118
Now when they saw the Rhine-men
coming the hoard to take,
The ever-valiant Albrich
unto his comrades spake:
“We dare not keep the treasure
withholden from her power,
Seeing the noble lady
can claim it as her dower.
1119
“Yet never would the matter
have come to such a pass,
Had we not had,” said Albrich,
“the evil luck, alas!
The goodly cap of darkness
with Siegfried’s self to lose:
Which fair Kriemhilda’s husband
was ever wont to use.
1120
“Now evil unto Siegfried
hath happen’d since the day
That from our hands the hero
the Tarnhelm took away,
And all this land by conquest
did to his service bind.”
Then went the treasure-keeper
straightway the keys to find.
1121
At the hill-foot were waiting
the Queen Kriemhilda’s men
And sundry of her kinsmen;
the treasure bore they then
Down to the lake-shore, lading
their vessel with the same:
Then o’er the waves they took it
and up the Rhine-stream came.
1122
Now may you of this treasure
a wondrous story hear:
It took a dozen wagons
it from the mount to bear;
Four days and nights they ceased not
to carry it away;
And each must make the journey,
so laden, thrice a day.
1123
Naught else but gold and jewels
within this treasure lay;
And had one taken from it
what would the whole world pay,
’Twould not have seem’d to eyesight
of one mark’s value quit.
Ay! Not without some reason
did Hagen covet it.
1124
The gem of all lay lowest—
a little rod of gold.
Whoever understood it
he might the mastery hold
In all the world’s dominions,
o’er every race of men.
Of Albrich’s kinsmen many
did follow Gernot then.
1125
As soon as they had carried
the hoard to Gunther’s land,
And thus the queen had taken
the whole into her hand,
The storerooms and the towers
were full as they could hold.
Never of such vast treasure
the marvel hath been told.
1126
And even were the treasure
increased a thousand fold,
And she once more might Siegfried
in health and strength behold,
Gladly to him would Kriemhild
have empty-handed gone:
For never could a hero
a truer wife have won.
1127
Now that she had the treasure,
she brought unto the land
Full many a stranger-warrior;
in truth the lady’s hand
Her bounty gave so largely,
the like had ne’er been known.
This queen had many virtues:
that all the folk did own.
1128
To poor men and to wealthy
she now began to give
So much, that Hagen argued:
if she perchance should live
For long enough, ’twas likely
so many would she win
To stay there in her service,
that ’twould go ill with him.
1129
King Gunther said: “Her own are
her body and estate;
What she shall do with either
how then can I dictate?
Nay, hardly could I compass
that she became thus kind.
So let both gold and silver
go as she hath a mind.”
1130
But to the king said Hagen:
“No prudent man and wise
Would leave to such a woman
a treasure of this size.
In gifts we’ll see her spend it
and squander the whole store,
And then the bold Burgundians
may rue it evermore.”
1131
Then answer’d him king Gunther:
“To her an oath I swore
That I to her would never
do any evil more;
And that will I abide by,
for she my sister is.”
But thereunto said Hagen:
“Let me be blamed for this.”
1132
The oaths that they had taken
they reckon’d all for naught.
And from the widow’s keeping
the mighty hoard they brought,
And quietly did Hagen
of all the keys get hold.
Wroth was her brother Gernot
when he the truth was told.
1133
Then spake the noble Giselher:
“Hagen a deal of ill
Hath done unto my sister:
reckon with him I will.
And were he not my kinsman,
’twould stand him in his life.”
Then once again to weeping
fell Siegfried’s widow’d wife.
1134
Then up and spake Lord Gernot:
“Ere we be troubled aye
By reason of this treasure,
we’ll take it all away
And sink it in the Rhine-stream;
then will it no man’s be.”
To Giselher her brother
then went she woefully.
1135
She spake: “Belovèd brother,
thou must take thought for me;
Of both my life and substance
the guardian thou shouldst be.”
Then spake he to the lady:
“This will I undertake
When we have home returned:
we have a ride to take.”
1136
The king and all his kinsmen
now left their land behind—
The best of all were taken
that one therein could find—
None stay’d save Hagen only;
that did he for the hate
He bore unto Kriemhilda;
with purpose did he wait.
1137
Before the mighty king came
back to his home again,
Hagen had meanwhile managed
the treasure great to gain.
Down in the Rhine at Lochheim
he sank it bodily.
He hoped yet to enjoy it:
but that was not to be.
1138
The princes came back shortly,
and with them many a man.
Of her great loss Kriemhilda
to make complaint began,
And all her maids and ladies:
great was their grief, in sooth.
Ready with faithful service
was Giselher the youth.
1139
They one and all said: “Hagen
hath done us a foul wrong.”
Then from the princes’ anger
he kept aloof for long,
Till he regain’d their favour;
and so they left him free:
Yet never to Kriemhilda
could he more hateful be.
1140
Before Hagen of Tronjé
had hidden thus the hoard,
They made a pact together
and with strong oaths assured,
That it should remain hidden
as long as each should live:
None for himself should take it,
nor to another give.
1141
So now again with sorrow
her heart was desolate:
First for her husband’s murder,
and now that her estate
Had all been taken from her.
Thus she became a prey
Unto her grief for ever
until her dying day.
1142
After the death of Siegfried,
as verily appears,
With many troubles burthen’d
she dwelt for thirteen years;
And all the while could never
forget the warrior dead.
She aye was faithful to him:
that all the people said.
Adventure XX
How King Etzel Sent to Burgundy After Kriemhilda
1143
Now on a time it happen’d
that lady Helka died;
Then was King Etzel minded
to woo another bride:
His friends all bade him look to
the land of Burgundy,
Towards a high-born widow;
Kriemhilda named was she.
1144
Soon after the fair Helka
departed had this life,
Quoth they: “If thou would’st ever
possess a noble wife—
The highest and most worthy
that king did ever have,
Then take this self-same lady,
widow of Siegfried brave.”
1145
“How might that be accomplish’d,”
then said the mighty king,
“Seeing I am a heathen
and ne’er had christening?
The lady is a Christian;
she never would agree.
A miracle must happen,
if this should ever be.”
1146
The ready ones made answer:
“What if perchance she should?
With thy high name to help thee
and all thy substance good,
To win the noble lady
one very well might try.
To woo so fair a person
would please you verily.”
1147
Then said the noble sovereign:
“Doth any one of you
The people of the Rhineland
and eke the country know?”
Good Rüdeger made answer,
who from Bechlaren came:
“I’ve known her from her childhood,
this queen of noble name.
1148
“King Gunther and King Gernot,
the noble knights and brave,
And Giselher, the third one—
each ever doth behave
In such wise as high honour
and virtue too have taught;
Nor elsewise from aforetime
have their forefathers wrought.”
1149
But furthermore said Etzel:
“Friend, I would learn of thee
If in my land she’s worthy
to wear the crown with me?
And if she’s fair of body
as has to me been said?—
Then those to me most friendly,
need never be dismay’d.”
1150
“Indeed unto my lady
in beauty likeneth she,
To Helka, the most mighty;
ay! in this world could be
For any king whatever
never a wife more fair.
To whom her love she plighteth
he may be of good cheer.”
1151
He spake: “Then win her, Rüdeger,
if dear to thee am I.
And if beside Kriemhilda
it e’er be mine to lie,
I will reward thee for it
as fully as may be;—
Seeing thou wilt my wishes
have compass’d thoroughly.
1152
“So much out of my treasure
I’ll have bestow’d on thee
That thou and thy companions
may live right merrily;
Of horses and of raiment
whatever you may need,
I will have for your journey
made ready with all speed.”
1153
Sir Rüdeger made answer:
—a mighty margrave he—
“Did I thy riches covet,
that were unpraiseworthy.
Unto the Rhine thy message
to bear I shall be glad
At charge of mine own fortune,
which from thy hands I had.”
1154
Then spake the mighty sovereign:
“Now when wilt thou fare hence
To seek this lovely lady?
May God give thee defence
And honour in the journey,
and eke this lady mine,
May she to us, luck helping,
a gracious ear incline.”
1155
Then Rüdeger spake further:
“Ere yet we leave the land,
We must prepare both raiment
and weapons to our hand,
That so before the princes
due honour we may have.
I’ll lead unto the Rhineland
five hundred warriors brave.
1156
“So, me and mine beholding,
the men of Burgundy
Shall every man among them
be fain to testify
That ne’er from king in those parts
on such a journey went
So many men or better
than thou to the Rhine hast sent.
1157
“And be it not displeasing
by thee, great ruler, found
That, noble love obeying,
she was in wedlock bound
To Siegfried, son of Siegmund;
him hast thou here beheld.
In honour great he must be
in truth for ever held.”
1158
Then said King Etzel: “Though she
was wife unto that knight,
Yet was his noble body
so precious in my sight,
That on the queen I cannot
e’er look disdainfully;
By her exceeding beauty
right well she pleaseth me.”
1159
Then spake to him the margrave:
“The four and twentieth day
From now, I dare to promise,
shall see us on our way.
I’ll send and tell Gotlinda,
my dear wife, presently,
That I myself will envoy
unto Kriemhilda be.”
1160
So thence unto Bechlaren
sent Rüdeger straightway.
Both sorrowful and proud was
the margravine that day.
A wife by him, he told her,
must for the king be woo’d;
Still tenderly, as living,
she thought of Helka good.
1161
For when her husband’s letter
the margravine did spell
Some little was she troubled
and straight to weeping fell.
Would she another mistress
like her have e’er again?
And when she thought of Helka
it gave her heartfelt pain.
1162
In seven days’ space had Rüdeger
set forth from Hungary.
A glad man was King Etzel,
and gay at heart was he.
Already in Vienna
the travelling gear was made,
Nor would he that the journey
should longer be delayed.
1163
Gotlinda at Bechlaren
awaited Rüdeger;
The margravine his daughter
was also waiting there,
And glad she was on seeing
her father and his men.
And many fair young maidens
watch’d kindly for them then.
1164
Ere Rüdeger the noble
forth for Bechlaren went
From out Vienna’s city,
all his accoutrement
Was perfectly made ready
and on the sumpters laid.
They travell’d in such fashion
that nothing was waylaid.
1165
When they to Bechelaren
within the town did fare,
The host his fellow travellers
bade kindly welcome there,
And offer’d board and lodging.
Good quarters each one had.
The noble Gotelinda
to see him come was glad.
1166
Likewise his well-loved daughter,
the little margravine,
At her dear father’s coming
could ne’er have gladder been.
The heroes out of Huns’ land
how glad she was to see!
And them the noble maiden
accosted merrily:
1167
“Right heartily be welcome
my father and his men!”
And readily, to thank her,
fair words were spoken then
Unto the margrave’s daughter,
by many a worthy knight.
Sir Rüdeger’s demeanour
Gotlinda read aright.
1168
For when alone at night-time
by Rüdeger she lay,
How lovingly besought him
the margravine to say
Whither the king from Huns’ land
had bidden him to go.
Said he: “My wife Got’linda,
I’ll gladly let thee know.
1169
“I for the king my master
must seek another wife,
Now that the beauteous Helka
departed hath this life.
Therefore to fetch Kriemhilda
unto the Rhine ride we;
To Huns’ land she is coming
a mighty queen to be.”
1170
“God grant,” said Gotelinda,
“that that may come to pass
Since we have heard, in honour,
how much she doth surpass.
She may replace my lady
belike, in days to be,
We’ll let her wear in Huns’ land
the queen’s crown willingly.”
1171
Then said the margrave to her:
“Beloved wife of mine,
The men who hence are riding
with me unto the Rhine,
All kindly must thou offer
with them thy stores to share:
When heroes fare right nobly
more stout of heart they are.”
1172
She answered: “There is no man
who cares to take of me,
To whom whate’er beseemeth
I give not willingly,
Or ever hence depart ye,
thou and thy fighting men.”
Then said to her the margrave:
“So doth it please me then.”
1173
Ay, and what noble garments
they from the storerooms bare!
For every noble warrior
there was a plenteous share.
All lined they were with peltry
downwards from throat to spur;
What best his purpose suited
was chosen of Rüdeger.
1174
Upon the seventh morning
from Bechelaren rode
The host with all his warriors.
Weapons and raiment good
They bore with them in plenty
through the Bavarian land;
Nor on the road were harass’d
by any robber band.
1175
Within a twelve days’ journey
they to the Rhine did ride;
The tidings of their coming
small chance there was to hide.
Some to the king gave warning,
and eke his men did tell,
That stranger-guests were coming.
The host to asking fell
1176
If they were known to any?
that was he fain to know.
One saw their sumpter-horses
so heavy-laden go:
That they were very wealthy
was plain enough to see.
In the great town was found them
a hostel presently.
1177
Now when the all-unknown ones
were given an abode,
Upon these self-same nobles
vast was the heed bestow’d:
Men wondered whence the warriors
to the Rhine had found their way.
The host sent after Hagen,
if haply he could say.
1178
Then spake the knight of Tronjé:
“I have not seen them yet,
I doubtless may declare you
when sight of them I get,
From whence they’ve come a-riding
into this land. I trow
They must indeed be strangers
if naught of them I know.”
1179
By this time every stranger
a place of lodging had.
Then forward came the envoy,
in rich apparel clad,
With all his noble comrades;
and so to court they rode.
Fine raiment were they wearing
right well-devised in mode.
1180
Then quoth the ready Hagen:
“For all that I can tell—
Not having seen these nobles
for somewhat of a spell—
Such like is their demeanour
as Rüdeger might have,
Out of the Hunnish country—
a noble knight and brave.”
1181
“How am I to believe it,”
the king replied straightway,
“That he of Bechelaren
is hither come this day?”
But as the royal Gunther
from speaking did forbear,
Bold Hagen saw for certain
that it was Rüdeger.
1182
He and his friends to meet them,
did hasten everyone.
One saw from off their horses
five hundred knights stand down.
These messengers from Hunsland
right welcome were they made,
And never yet were envoys
so gallantly array’d.
1183
Then Hagen spake of Tronjé,
and in a loud voice cried:
“Now in God’s name be welcome
ye thanes who hither ride,
The Warden of Bechlaren,
and each one of his men.”
An honourable greeting
the doughty Huns had then.
1184
King Gunther’s nearest kinsmen,
came forth to where they were,
The lord of Metz, Sir Ortwein,
then said to Rüdeger:
“Ne’er yet in all our lifetime
have we until this day
Set eyes on guests so gladly:
that may I truly say.”
1185
Thanks gave they for the greeting
unto the warriors all;
So with their noble escort,
they went unto the hall.
And there they found King Gunther
with a gallant company,
And from his throne upstood he,
such was his courtesy.
1186
With what right courtly breeding
did he the envoys meet!
Gernot, as well as Gunther,
was full of zeal to greet
The guest and eke his liegemen,
as did his rank demand.
Good Rüdeger King Gunther
himself took by the hand.
1187
Unto the seat he led him,
on which himself he sat:
Then to the strangers served they—
all gladly did they that—
Of right good mead full beakers,
and of the best of wine
That ever one could meet with
in all the land of Rhine.
1188
Now Giselher and Gere
had both of them appear’d;
And Dankwart, too, and Volker,
who all of them had heard
About the guests arriving;
they were in gladsome mood:
Before the king they greeted
the noble knights and good.
1189
Then Hagen, knight of Tronjé,
unto his lord did say:
“These warriors of ours
should be beholden aye
For kindness that the margrave
hath shown to us before:
Fair Gotelinda’s husband
must have reward therefore.”
1190
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“I can no more delay;
In health how are they faring,
that tell to me, I pray;—
Etzel, I mean, and Helka,
who over Hunsland reign?”
“All will I,” said the margrave,
“gladly to you make plain.”
1191
Straight from the seat uprose he,
as eke did all his men,
And to the king thus spake he:
“If thus it may be then,
And you, O prince, allow it,
I will no more delay
The tidings that I bring you,
but willingly will say.”
1192
He said: “Whate’er the tidings
that unto us you bear,
I wait not friendly counsel,
but bid you to declare.
Let me and my men hear them,
whatever they may be;
I bid you, in all honour,
discharge your embassy.”
1193
Then spake the trusty envoy:
“To you upon the Rhine
His faithful service tenders
that mightful lord of mine;
To every friend moreover
that unto you may be,
This message I deliver,
in faith and honesty:
1194
“The noble king doth ask for
your pity in his need.
All joyless are his people:
my lady she is dead,
The rich and mighty Helka,
of my good lord the wife;
And now full many a maiden
doth lead an orphan’d life—
1195
“Children of noble princes,
whom she did rear of late—
And therefore is the country
in lamentable state:
These now, alas, have no one
to rear them faithfully.
I doubt there is no ending
to the king’s misery.”
1196
“Requite him God,” said Gunther,
“for that to me he sends
So willingly his service,
as eke unto my friends!
The greeting thou hast brought me
right gladly have I heard:
My kinsmen and my lieges
shall merit his good word.”
1197
Then spake, from the Burgundians,
Gernot the warrior:
“The world fair Helka’s dying
may rue for evermore,
For all her many virtues,
which she to cherish knew.”
The doughty knight, Sir Hagen,
agreed that this was true.
1198
But Rüdeger said further,
the high ambassador:
“Since you, O king, allow me,
I have to tell you more
Of that which my dear master
hath bidden me fulfil;
Since from the death of Helka
things have with him gone ill.
1199
“It hath been told my master
that, Siegfried being dead,
Kriemhilda is a widow.
If this be so, indeed,
And you to her will grant it,
then she a crown shall wear
Before King Etzel’s warriors:
this have I to declare.”
1200
The mighty monarch answer’d
(in courteous mood was he):
“I’ll tell her my opinion,
if she perchance agree.
I’ll see that you our answer
in three days’ time shall know,
How should I, ere I’ve asked her,
say unto Etzel, no?
1201
Meanwhile they had good lodgings
made ready for each guest.
So well provided were they,
that Rüdeger confess’d
That he had friends in plenty
amongst King Gunther’s men;
As he had once served Hagen,
so Hagen served him then.
1202
So Rüdeger abode there
till the third day was come.
The king a council summon’d,
(as was his wise custom)
Inquiring of his kinsmen
if they would deem it right
That Kriemhild should to Etzel
her faith in wedlock plight.
1203
They all, save only Hagen,
agreed with one accord;
But he unto the warrior,
to Gunther spake this word:
“If you are rightly minded,
so will you take good heed,
That, even though she wish it,
you will not do this deed.”
1204
“And wherefore,” answer’d Gunther,
“should I not do this thing?
Whate’er of love the future
unto the queen may bring,
I surely shall not grudge her:
sister she is to me.
We ought ourselves to seek it,
if for her good it be.”
1205
But once again spake Hagen:
“With further talk be done!
Knew you as much of Etzel
as I of him have known—
And were she him to marry,
as I have heard you say—
Then would yon see good reason,
at length to rue the day.”
1206
“And wherefore?” answered Gunther,
“since I should take good care
“Never to come so nigh him,
e’en though my sister were
His wife, that I need suffer
from any hate of his.”
But once again said Hagen:
“I’ll ne’er agree to this.”
1207
Then messengers to Gernot
and Giselher they sent,
To ask of these two princes
if they were well content
To have Kriemhilda marry
the rich and noble king.
Sir Hagen still gainsayed it,
but had no following.
1208
Then spake of the Burgundians
the warrior Giselher:
“Now may you show, friend Hagen,
that loyal still you are:
Make good to her the evil
that you to her have done:
If aught may bring her fortune,
that should you leave alone.
1209
“You’ve wrought unto my sister
such evil manifold,”—
So Giselher spake further—
the knight of spirit bold:
“That she hath had good reason
to hold you in despite.
Ne’er yet was any woman
bereft of more delight.”
1210
“That am I well aware of
and willing to allow.
And should she marry Etzel
and live for long enow,
She’ll do us yet much evil,
howe’er she it contrive;
For many a goodly warrior
to serve her there doth live.”
1211
Thereon the valiant Gernot
to Hagen answerèd:
“In that case it behoves us,
until they both be dead,
To study that we ride not
into King Etzel’s land.
We must be loyal to her:
thus honour doth demand.”
1212
Whereto again spake Hagen:
“No man can me gainsay!
And should the noble Kriemhild
wear Helka’s crown one day,
She’ll do to us a mischief,
howe’er it may be done:
It better would beseem you
to leave the thing alone.”
1213
Then wrathfully cried Giselher,
of Uté fair the son:
“We need not all be traitors,
though thou perchance be one!
If honour doth befall her,
right joyful should we be,
Whate’er thou sayest, Hagen,
I’ll serve her faithfully.”
1214
When Hagen heard that saying,
anger’d was he in mood:
For Giselher and Gernot,
proud warriors both and good,
And mighty Gunther likewise,
did all of them agree
That if it pleased Kriemhilda
they would no hindrance be.
1215
Then spoke the princely Gere:
“The lady I’ll advise
That she do let King Etzel
find favour in her eyes:
So many knights obey him,
and suit and service owe—
He yet may make her happy
in spite of all her woe.”
1216
Then went the ready warrior
where Kriemhild he did see;
She graciously received him:
how quickly then spake he!
“Well may you greet me, lady,
and give me herald’s bread,
For good luck comes to save you
now out of all your need.
1217
“For love of you, dear lady,
lo! there hath hither sent
One of the best and greatest
that e’er had government
O’er realm with highest honour,
or ever crown shall wear;
And noble knights sue for him:
your brother bids declare.”
1218
Then spake the sorrow-laden:
“Now God prohibit thee
And all my friends from making
a mockery of me!
Of me, the poor forlorn one!
what could I be to one
Who heartfelt love hath ever
from a good woman won?”
1219
She sorely strove against it;
but presently to her
There came her brother Gernot
and the lad Giselher.
These tenderly besought her
to be of cheerful mood:
If she the king would marry,
’twould be for her true good.
1220
Not one of them was able
the lady to persuade,
That she should e’er be willing
another man to wed;
Then did the thanes beseech her:
“At least we beg of thee—
If thou naught else wilt grant us—
the messengers to see.”
1221
“That will I not refuse ye,”
replied the noble wife,
“For gladly would I look on
Sir Rüdeger in life,
For all his many virtues.
If he it had not been,
Whoever were the envoy,
I would have stay’d unseen.”
1222
She spake: “To-morrow morning,
I pray ye, bid him go
To see me in my chamber;
then will I let him know
What is my will, right surely:
to tell him am I fain.”
Then did her grievous sorrow
break forth in tears again.
1223
To Rüdeger the noble
naught better could have been
Than that he should be granted
to see the mighty queen:
He knew that, could this happen,
so wise in words was he,
She, by the warrior’s talking,
must needs persuaded be.
1224
So, early on the morrow,
after the mass was sung,
Arrived the noble envoys;
then mighty was the throng.
Of those who to the palace
with Rüdeger should go,
All gallantly accoutred;
one saw a goodly show.
1225
The high-born dame Kriemhilda
her heart with trouble sore,
For Rüdeger was waiting—
the goodly warrior.
He found her in the raiment
she wore for ev’ry day:
But none the less her women
had donn’d their best array.
1226
She rose and went to meet him,
and by the door she stood,
And unto Etzel’s liegeman
she gave a welcome good.
With but eleven comrades
he came therein to her.
Worship had he, for never
came nobler messenger.
1227
One bade them all be seated—
the leader and his men.
The while before her standing
they saw her margraves twain,
Counts Eckewart and Gere—
both noble knights and good.
For sake of her, their mistress,
none seem’d of joyful mood.
1228
They saw beside her sitting
full many a lady fair.
For nothing save her sorrow
had Kriemhild any care.
The raiment on her bosom
was wet with tear-drops hot,
Nor fail’d the noble margrave
Kriemhilda’s grief to note.
1229
Then spake the lordly envoy:
“Daughter of kingly race,
To me and to my comrades
who here with me have place,
I pray you leave to grant us
that we before you stand
And tell to you the errand
that brings us to this land.”
1230
“Now be it to you granted,”
the queen in answer said,
“To speak as ye are minded;
for I am purposèd
Right willingly to listen:
thou art a herald good.”
Yet to the others’ hearing
unwilling was her mood.
1231
Then he of Bechelaren,
Prince Rüdeger, began:
“With plenteous love, and faithful,
Etzel, a great sovran,
To this thy land, fair lady,
hath sent an embassy
Of knights to seek thy favour—
a goodly company.
1232
“He offers thee right frankly
love free from all alloy:
And eke such steadfast friendship
thou shalt with him enjoy,
As erewhile did dame Helka,
so near his heart who lay.
Ay, he hath mourn’d her virtues
for many a joyless day.”
1233
“Sir Rüdeger the margrave,”
in answer spake the queen,
“No one who hath already
my bitter sorrow seen,
To any man would bid me
myself in wedlock bind.
Ay! I have lost the best one
that ever wife did find.”
1234
“What else,” the bold man answer’d,
“for sorrow may atone
So well as loving friendship,
if such may be, from one
Who for himself is choosing
what seems to him the best?
Naught, after heartfelt sorrow,
can give such happy rest.
1235
“If to my noble master
to give thy love thou’lt deign,
Of twelve right wealthy kingdoms
thou shalt be sovereign.
My lord will also give you
full thirty princes’ lands,
Each one of which was conquer’d
by his all-potent hands.
1236
“Thereto shalt thou be mistress
of many a worthy wight
Who to my lady Helka
did service owe of right;
And over many a lady
who dwelt beneath her sway,
Of high and princely lineage.”
Thus did the bold knight say.
1237
“My lord will likewise give thee,
as he doth bid me say—
If with the king thou deignest
to wear the crown one day—
The highest power that ever
he unto Helka gave:
Thou over Etzel’s vassals
authority shalt have.”
1238
Then spake the queen: “What pleasure
remains for me in life,
That ever I should covet
to be a hero’s wife?
Such sorrow have I suffer’d
all through the death of one,
That I must aye be joyless,
until my life be done.”
1239
But once more spake the Hunsman:
“Most high and noble queen,
Your life along with Etzel
so glorious would be seen,
Naught would it be but gladness,
if this should come to pass:
And many a handsome warrior
the mighty monarch has.”
1240
“The damsels of Queen Helka,
the maids that follow thee,
Shall make with one another
a single company;
A sight at which the warriors
shall merry be of mood.
Be counsell’d therefore, lady;
in sooth ’tis for thy good!”
1241
With courtesy she answer’d:
“Now let this parley be
Until to-morrow early;
then come again to me
And you shall have my answer
to what you have at heart.”
Needs must the valiant warrior
agree, and so depart.
1242
When they unto their hostel
had all returnèd home,
Then sent the noble lady
for Giselher to come,
And likewise for her mother:
and unto both did vow,
That nothing else save weeping
was fitting for her now.
1243
Said Giselher, her brother:
“Sister, ’tis my belief—
And some to me have said it—
that all thy bitter grief
King Etzel will make vanish:
and shouldst thou marry him—
Whatever others counsel—
well done I will it deem.
1244
“He surely may console thee,”
said Giselher again:
“From Rhone unto the Rhine-stream,
from Elbe unto the main,
There’s not another sovran
so powerful as he.
Right soon may’st thou be happy,
if wife he makes of thee.”
1245
“My brother well belovèd,
how canst thou thus advise?
To weep and mourn seems ever
more fitting in mine eyes.
How, at the court there, should I
before the warriors go?
If ever I were comely,
no longer am I so.”
1246
Then spake the lady Uté
her daughter dear unto:
“Whate’er thy brothers counsel,
fail not, dear child, to do;
Follow thy friends’ advising,
so will it prosper thee.
Too long have I beheld thee
in thy great misery.”
1247
Then God she pray’d right sorely
that store of worldly gear,
Of silver, gold and raiment
be granted unto her,
To give; as when her husband
in life and health she had;
Though never as aforetime
could life again be glad.
1248
Within her heart she ponder’d:
“Shall I my body give—
Who am a Christian woman—
and with a heathen wive?
Fore all the world and ever
disgrace on me ’twould bring—
Though all his wealth he gave me,
I would not do this thing!”
1249
And so she left the matter:
but all night long, till day,
The lady on her pillow
with endless brooding lay.
Her eyes that shone so brightly,
from tears were never dried,
Until at dawn of morning
unto the mass she hied.
1250
The kings came thither also
close on the hour of mass;
They had been taking counsel
upon their sister’s case:
To marry they advised her
the king of Hungary.
But neither found the lady
disposed more cheerfully.
1251
Forthwith were orders given
King Etzel’s men to bring,
Who now would leave have taken
and home been travelling—
Accepted or rejected,
whichever of the twain.
Then to the court came Rüdeger.
The heroes urged again
1252
That he should rightly fathom
the noble Gunther’s mood,
And do it very quickly:
to all did this seem good:
To get back to their country,
they needs must journey far.
And so unto Kriemhilda
they usher’d Rüdeger.
1253
With kindly words of pleading
began the warrior;
The noble queen beseeching
that she would let him hear
What message for his master,
to Etzel’s land she sent.
I ween he found her answer
naught save discouragement:
1254
That she forsooth would never
again wed anyone.
Whereon the margrave answer’d:
“That surely were ill-done!
Why shouldst thou thy fair body
so wastefully disdain?
Thou mightst become with honour
a good man’s wife again.”
1255
But naught avail’d their praying,
until that Rüdeger
All privately did whisper
into the great queen’s ear,
That all she ever suffer’d
he would make good again.
Whereat her great misliking
somewhat began to wane.
1256
Unto the queen thus spake he:
“Let now your weeping be.
If you among the Hunsfolk
had ne’er a friend save me,
And all my trusty kinsmen,
and eke my liegemen true,
Hath any done you evil
right dearly should he rue.”
1257
Thenceforth the lady’s humour
somewhat more gentle grew.
She said: “An oath now give me:
whatever men may do
That you will be the first one
to right mine injury.”
Whereto the margrave answer’d:
“That will I readily.”
1258
With all his men did Rüdeger
swear by an oath to her
That he would serve her truly;
and that no warrior
Should ever aught deny her,
throughout King Etzel’s land,
In what concern’d her honour.
So pledged her Rüdeger’s hand.
1259
Then, faithful-hearted, thought she:
“Since on my will to wait
I’ve met with friends so many,
I’ll let the people prate
Howe’er they have a mind to,
of me, poor wretched wife!
What if I yet have vengeance
for my dear husband’s life?”
1260
She thought: “Since Etzel holdeth
so many knights in fee,
I also may command them,
and do what pleaseth me.
So wealthy is he also,
I shall have much to give:
Me did that hateful Hagen
of all my goods deprive.”
1261
To Rüdeger thus spake she:
“If it were known to me
That he were not an heathen,
I would come willingly,
Whithersoe’er he listeth,
and take him for my lord.”
The margrave answer’d: “Lady,
heed not a single word.
1262
“He hath so many warriors,
who in Christ’s faith believe
That with the king at no time
shall you have cause to grieve.
What if your faith should win him
to take the Christian life?
Then might you well be happy
to be King Etzel’s wife.”
1263
Then said her brothers also:
“Now, sister mine, say ‘Yes,’
And so be quit for ever
of your unhappiness.”
Thus long did they beseech her,
till, full of sorrow, she
Before the heroes promised
King Etzel’s wife to be.
1264
She said: “You will I follow,
a queen right sad of heart,
And fare with you to Huns’ land;
so may we now depart,
When I the friends have found me
to bring me to his land.”
To that, before the heroes,
fair Kriemhild gave her hand.
1265
Then to her said the margrave:
“Hast thou a pair of men,
To them I can add many:
it will be easy then
To bring you with due honour
unto Rhine’s further side:
No longer, mid Burgundians,
lady, must thou abide.
1266
“I have five hundred liegemen,
and kinsmen too, of whom
Thou mayst command the service—
or here, or there at home
To do thy bidding, lady;
and I will do the same,
Whene’er thou claim’st my promise—
that so I have no shame.
1267
“Now see that you have ready
your horse accoutrement;
What Rüdeger doth counsel
you never shall repent;
And say this to your maidens
whom you will thither bring:
‘Ay, many a chosen hero
shall we meet travelling.’ ”
1268
Still much of wrought equipment
from Siegfried’s time they had,
That had been used in riding;
wherewith full many a maid
Might take the road with honour
whene’er they thence should fare.
Ay! goodly were the saddles
they gave the ladies fair.
1269
If suchlike costly raiment
they ere had worn before,
Now ready for the journey
they had a goodly store;
For of the King such marvels
had unto them been said.
Chests that had long been standing
close-lock’d were open laid.
1270
Unwearyingly work’d they
till unto the fifth day;
They sought from out the presses
the stores that in them lay.
Her treasure-chests to open
Kriemhild herself did go.
On Rüdeger’s good liegemen
she fain would wealth bestow.
1271
Still had she somewhat over
of gold from Niblung-land;
(Among the Huns she thought to
divide it with her hand),
A hundred sumpter horses
the load could nowise bear.
This tale about Kriemhilda
was brought to Hagen’s ear.
1272
Quoth he: “Because Kriemhilda
will ne’er to me be kind,
The gold that once was Siegfried’s,
she needs must leave behind.
Why should I such a treasure
unto my foes let go?
Right well I know what Kriemhild
with all this gold will do.
1273
“For if she hence should bring it,
I’ll wager verily
’Twould be in largesse given
to stir up hate for me.
They have not e’en the horses
to carry it away.
’Tis Hagen’s will to keep it,
thus unto Kriemhild’ say.”
1274
Now when she heard this message,
smit to the heart was she.
The word was likewise carried
unto the kings all three.
Fain would they have gainsaid it,
but as this did no good,
Sir Rüdeger the noble
outspake in joyous mood:
1275
“O, mighty Queen, and noble,
why grieve ye for this gold?
When unto you king Etzel
such kindliness doth hold,
That when his eyes behold you,
he’ll give such riches rare
That you can never spend it:
that, lady, will I swear.”
1276
To him the queen made answer:
“Most noble Rüdeger,
Never had a king’s daughter
more wealth bequeath’d to her
Than that of which Sir Hagen
hath now despoilèd me.”
Then went her brother Gernot
unto the treasury.
1277
By right the king’s key took he
and put it in the door:
And gold therefrom withdrew they,
that was of Kriemhild’s store;
Of marks full thirty thousand
or something more they had:
He bade the guests to take it:
and Gunther was right glad.
1278
Then he from Bechelaren,
dame Gotelinda’s lord,
Said: “If my lady Kriemhild
yet ownèd all the hoard
Such as it was aforetime
when brought from Niblung-land,
Nor I, nor the queen either,
would touch it with our hand.
1279
“Now back let it be taken,
for of it will I naught;
Sufficient from my country,
ay, of mine own, I brought,
That we can do without it
right well upon the way,
And all our homeward charges
right royally can pay.”
1280
Unto that end her maidens
had meanwhile pieces told
Into a dozen coffers,
all of the finest gold
That ever one might meet with:
these with them they would bear,
And ornaments for ladies
upon the road to wear.
1281
The mastery of grim Hagen
seem’d overpowering.
Some thousand marks still had she
left from the almsgiving.
For her dear husband’s welfare
the whole did she dispart;
And Rüdeger but deem’d it
done with a right true heart.
1282
Then said the weeping lady:
“Where are those friends of mine
Who for my sake are willing
in banishment to pine?
They who unto the Huns’ land
will bear me company?
Let them take of my treasure
and horse and raiment buy.”
1283
Then Eckewart the margrave,
made answer to the queen:
“So long as in your household
a servant I have been
Right truly have I served you,”
thus did the warrior say,
“Nor will I cease to do so
until my dying day.
1284
“And of my men five hundred
eke will I bring with me,
Whom I unto your service
do pledge right faithfully.
For nothing shall divide us,
till Death our lives do part.”
She bent her head to thank him:
too full was her sad heart.
1285
Then led they forth the palfreys,
for it was time to go.
Her friends all fell a-weeping,
and many tears did flow.
The noble lady Uté
and many a maiden fair
Show’d that for dame Kriemhilda
their hearts were full of care.
1286
A hundred high-born maidens
along with her she led,
Who as their rank befitted
were all apparellèd.
Then from their eyes bright-shining
did many a tear-drop well.
And yet with Etzel later
much pleasure them befell.
1287
Lord Giselher came also
and Gernot none the less,
With many of their household,
as bade their courtliness.
They would their well-loved sister
upon her journey bring.
They led a thousand warriors,
a goodly following.
1288
The ever-ready Gere,
and Ortwein also came;
Rumold the kitchen-master
he too must come with them.
Night-quarters made they ready
hard by the Danube side.
But Gunther from the city
did but a small space ride.
1289
Ere from the Rhine they journey’d
they had before them sent
Their messengers, who swiftly
unto the Huns’ land went,
And told the king beforehand
how Rüdeger had done,
And as a wife for Etzel
the noble queen had won.
Adventure XXI
How Kriemhilda Went to the Huns
1290
Leave we the heralds riding:
we must make known to you
How the Queen’s journey prosper’d,
as she the land rode through;
And where from her did Gernot
and Giselher depart.
Right truly each had served her,
as taught of faithful heart.
1291
They rode as far as Pfoering,
upon the Danube-strand.
Then of the queen began they
kind quittance to demand,
Since homeward they returning
unto the Rhine would ride:
Nor might this without weeping
’twixt loving friends betide.
1292
Then Giselher the ready
unto his sister said:
“If ever thou, fair lady,
shouldst stand in need of aid,
If e’er thou art in danger,
fail not to let me know.
To Etzel’s land to serve thee
I presently will go.”
1293
Those who were of her kindred
upon the mouth she kist;
And at the hour of parting
full many a loving tryst
One saw the liegemen keeping
of margrave Rüdeger:
For many a well-dight maiden
the queen led forth with her.
1294
Five score and four in number:
rich clothing did they wear
And brightly tinctured cloth-stuffs:
and many men did bear
Broad shields to guard the ladies
beside them on the way.
But many a princely warrior
must part from them that day.
1295
Thence rode they swiftly forward
down through Bavarian land.
The people told the tidings
of how a mickle band
Of unknown guests were coming,
nigh where a cloister still
Doth stand, and where Inn river
the Danube’s flood doth fill.
1296
Within the town of Passau
there was a bishop’s see.
The hostels and the palace
stood empty presently:
To meet the guests men hied them
on to Bavarian ground,
Where Pilgerin the bishop
the fair Kriemhilda found.
1297
The warriors of the country
no whit displeasèd were
To see behind her coming
so many ladies fair,
Their eyes upon these daughters
of noble knights did rest.
Good lodging was provided
for every noble guest.
1298
The bishop into Passau,
his niece beside him, rode;
And when among the burghers
the news was noised abroad
That coming was Kriemhilda,
their prince’s sister’s child,
Right gladly was she welcomed
by all the merchant guild.
1299
That they were come to sojourn
the bishop fain had known,
But Eckewart said to him:
“It is not to be done;
To Rüdeger’s dominions
we needs must journey down,
Where many knights await us:
as is to all well-known.”
1300
The tidings of their coming
now fair Gotlinda knew.
Straightway she made her ready,
her noble daughter too.
For Rüdeger had warn’d her
that he would deem it good
If when the queen was coming—
to somewhat cheer her mood—
1301
She would ride forth to meet her,
with escort of his men,
Unto the river Ense;
which being accomplish’d, then
On every side beheld one
the very roads alive
With folk, on foot or horseback—
to see the guests arrive
1302
Now was the queen by this time
to Everdingen come.
No few of the Bavarians
did then as outlaws roam,
To rob upon the highways;
and they, as was their wont,
Might to the guests have offer’d
some dangerous affront.
1303
But well the noble margrave
of this had taken thought;
For he a thousand warriors
and even more had brought.
There also came Gotlinda,
the wife of Rüdeger,
And many a knight of valour
right nobly rode with her.
1304
When they the Traun had traversed,
upon the level green
By Ens, folk making ready
cabins and tents were seen;
For there it was determined
the night-halt should be made.
All charges for the strangers
by Rüdeger were paid.
1305
The fair Gotlinda stay’d not
upon the camping ground,
But forward went to meet them.
Along the roadway wound
With ever tinkling trappings
a handsome cavalcade.
Right kindly was her greeting—
which Rüdeger made glad.
1306
And those whom either party
encounter’d on the way
Rode in praiseworthy fashion;
right many thanes were they.
They practised knightly pastimes,
by many a maiden seen;
Nor was the warriors’ service
unpleasing to the queen.
1307
As Rüdeger’s retainers
unto the guests came nigh,
Right many were the lance-shafts
one saw raised up on high,
By warriors’ hands uplifted,
as is the knightly mode;
And then before the ladies
praiseworthily they rode.
1308
This brought they to an ending;
then many of the men
Greeted each other kindly.
The fair Gotlinda then
To where she saw Kriemhilda
they brought upon her way.
They who could serve the ladies
had little rest that day.
1309
The lord of Bechelaren
up to his wife did ride;
The noble lady-margrave
was right well satisfied
That he from the Rhine country
all safe and sound had won.
And somewhat was her sorrow
in happiness undone.
1310
When she had made him welcome,
he bade her on the green
Dismount, with all the ladies
who in her train were seen.
Then many a noble liegeman
was busy as could be;
And service to the ladies
was done right readily.
1311
As now the lady Kriemhild
the margravine espied,
Standing with her attendants,
she would no nearer ride;
But with the rein her palfrey
at once began to stay,
And bade them from the saddle
to lift her down straightway.
1312
His sister’s daughter leading
one saw the bishop soon,
With Eckewart, to make her
unto Gotlinda known;
And, in a trice, the people
made wide the way for this.
Upon the lips the stranger
did Gotelinda kiss.
1313
Then spake in loving fashion
the wife of Rüdeger:
“Now well is me, dear lady,
that I thy presence fair
Within my country’s borders
and with mine eyes have seen.
To me could at this season
no greater joy have been.”
1314
“Most noble Gotelinda,
God give you your reward!
If haply I,” spake Kriemhild,
“and Botlung’s son be spared,
One day you may be joyful
that you have seen my face.”
They both were all unknowing
of what must come to pass.
1315
Due courtesies exchanging,
walk’d many maidens fair;
Their services to render
the warriors ready were.
They sat, the greetings ended,
upon the clover down,
And many made acquaintance,
who were till then unknown.
1316
Wine brought they for the ladies;
and now ’twas full midday;
The noble folk would therefore
no longer there delay.
They rode on till they came where
large huts and many stood,
And for the noble strangers
was waiting service good.
1317
That night they slept in quiet
until the dawning brake.
But they of Bechelaren
themselves did ready make,
So that they might provide for
so many a worthy guest.
Well Rüdeger had managed
that little should be miss’d.
1318
One saw how every window
stood open in the wall:
The castle of Bechlaren
was entry-free to all.
Therein the guests came riding,
well seen of all around.
The noble host had bidden
good hostel to be found.
1319
Then Rüdeger’s fair daughter
with all her company,
Unto the queen approaching,
received her lovingly.
There likewise was her mother,
the wife of the margrave.
To many a young damsel
they kindly greeting gave.
1320
Hands took they with each other,
and so together went
Unto a wide-room’d palace
of fashion excellent,
For there, beneath it rushing,
one saw the Danube’s flood.
They sat and took the breezes,
and had much pastime good.
1321
Of what they did there further
I cannot say a word.
That so much time was wasted
complaints, howe’er, were heard—
Made by Kriemhilda’s warriors,
whose patience thus was tried.
But with them, from Bechlaren
what goodly thanes did ride!
1322
By Rüdeger kind service
was amply offerèd.
The queen bestow’d, when leaving,
twelve golden bracelets red
On Gotelinda’s daughter,
and raiment, too, well-wrought:
She into Etzel’s country
herself no better brought.
1323
Although they had despoil’d her
of all the Niblung gold,
The love of all who saw her
she knew to win and hold
With what small wealth remaining
she for her use might have.
Unto her host’s house-servants
great store of gifts she gave.
1324
Like honour show’d on her side
the lady Gotelind
Unto the guests from Rhineland;
to whom she was so kind
That one could find scarce any
among the strangers there
Who had not of her jewels
or raiment fine to wear.
1325
When they enough had eaten,
and time it was to start,
The mistress of the household
proffer’d, with all her heart,
Most true and loyal service
to Etzel’s wife to-be.
Then was the fair young maiden
embraced right lovingly.
1326
Unto the Queen thus spake she:
“If it seem good to you,
I know that my dear father
right gladly this will do:
He’ll send me into Hunsland
that I with you may be.”
That she was loyal-hearted
Kriemhilda well could see.
1327
In front of Bechelaren
the horses had been led;
The noble queen already
her parting words had said
Unto the wife and daughter
of margrave Rüdeger;
With greetings, too, departed
full many a maiden fair.
1328
They scarce from that day forward
saw one another more.
And when they came to Medlick,
lo! in their hands men bore
A store of brave gold flagons,
wherein, unto the street,
Wine brought they for the strangers;
to give them welcome meet.
1329
There was a lord of manor
here dwelling, hight Astold;
Into the Austrian country
the way to them he told:
By Mautern, somewhat further
the Danube stream adown.
There right true service later
the mighty queen did own.
1330
Unto his niece the bishop
a loving farewell bade;
To be of cheerful spirit
her earnestly he pray’d,
And win herself such honour
as Helka erst had done.
Ay! what great honour later
amongst the Huns she won!
1331
Unto the Traisen river
the guests they soon did bring;
And Rüdeger’s retainers
served them, unwearying,
Until the Hunfolk riding
across the country came.
Then was there mickle honour
done to the royal dame.
1332
The king of the Huns’ country
did, near the Traisen, own
A very noble stronghold,
to everyone well known.
Its name was Traisenmauer,
where Helka lived of yore,
And practised such great virtues,
scarce met with any more,
1333
Save only in Kriemhilda;—
for she knew how to give;—
And, after all her sorrow,
was for some joy to live,
In that she also honour
of Etzel’s folk might have;
Which soon, in fullest measure,
the heroes to her gave.
1334
The sovereignty of Etzel
was own’d so far and wide
That at his court were met with,
at every time and tide,
The bravest of all warriors
whose names were known to fame
’Mongst Christians or heathens:
all thither to him came.
1335
With him there was at all times—
which scarce again can come—
The Christian confession
along with heathendom.
Whatever rule of living
each for himself might have,
The king’s mood was so easy,
plenty to all he gave.
Adventure XXII
How Etzel Espoused Kriemhilda
1336
Until the fourth day dawning
at Traisenmauer she stay’d.
The dust upon the roadways
meanwhile was never laid;
It rose, as from some burning,
on every side, like smoke,
While through the Austrian country
came riding Etzel’s folk.
1337
Meanwhile to the king also
the news was duly brought;
Whereon his former sorrow
soon vanish’d at the thought
How royally Kriemhilda
across the land did ride.
The king then made him ready
to go and meet his bride.
1338
Strange tongues of many races
one heard upon that road,
As many gallant warriors
in front of Etzel rode;
Of Christians and of pagans
a host exceeding great;
And when they met the Lady
they went in noble state.
1339
Of Russ and Greek came riding
a goodly company,
And Poles and Wallachs saw one
go rushing swiftly by
Upon their gallant chargers,
that mightfully they rode;
And nothing was there lacking
of native use and mode.
1340
From out of the Kief country
rode many a warrior bold;
And hordes from wild Petschnegen.
These did the custom hold
Of carrying bow and arrow
to shoot birds as they flew;
With strength they pull’d the bow-string,
and the full shaft’s length drew.
1341
There stood upon the Danube,
in Austrian land, a town
The name whereof was Tulna:
to her was there made known
Full many a foreign custom
she had not seen before.
By many was she welcomed,
who through her suffer’d sore.
1342
As guard before King Etzel
a company there rode
Of mighty men and merry,
courtly and high of mood;
Of princes four-and-twenty,
all great and wealthy men.
They came to see their Lady—
naught more they ask’d for then.
1343
There also was Duke Ramung,
from the Wallachian plain,
Who with seven hundred horsemen
before her sped amain:
Like birds of passage flying,
one saw them whirling by.
Prince Gibeche soon follow’d,
with stately chivalry.
1344
Hornboge, the aye ready,
came with a thousand men,
And from the king’s side
turn’d him towards his Lady then.
As was their country’s custom,
they raised a mighty shout.
And all the Hunnish kinsmen
in swarms came riding out.
1345
Also there came from Denmark
Haward the valiant one,
And ever-ready Iring,
to falseness all unknown;
And Irnfried of Thuringia,
a goodly man was he!
So welcomed they Kriemhilda,
she needs must honour’d be.
1346
With their twelve hundred liegemen
the host they rode before.
Sir Bloedelin came also
with thrice a thousand more—
The brother of King Etzel
from out of Hungary:
Right royally escorted
unto the queen rode he.
1347
And last of all King Etzel;
and with him Dietrich came
With all his chosen comrades
and many a knight of fame,
Right noble and praiseworthy,
and valiant and good.
Whereat was dame Kriemhilda
much lightsomer of mood.
1348
Then, to the princess speaking,
the nobler Rüdeger
Said: “Lady, I will welcome
the mighty sovran here.
And whomsoe’er I bid you
to kiss, so do it then:
You must not give like greeting
to all of Etzel’s men.”
1349
Then down from off her palfrey
the high-born queen they took;
Whereon the mighty Etzel
no more delay could brook.
He from his steed dismounted
with many a bold knight too:
And then one saw him blithely
towards Kriemhilda go.
1350
Two rich and mighty princes,
as has to us been told,
Were standing near the lady
her garment’s train to hold,
What time the royal Etzel
went forward her to meet.
The noble prince with kisses
then did she kindly greet.
1351
She raised the veil that screen’d her;
her dainty colour glow’d
Out of its golden setting;
and many a knight avow’d
That ne’er could Lady Helka
have shown a face more fair.
King Etzel’s brother, Bloedelin,
was standing very near.
1352
Him Rüdeger the margrave
bade her to kiss; and eke
King Gibeche; and Dietrich,
who was not far to seek.
A dozen of the warriors
were kiss’d by Etzel’s bride;
Then gave she other greeting
to many a knight beside.
1353
Now all the while that Etzel
did by Kriemhilda stay
The younger men were busy
(as such would be to-day)
With many mighty tiltings;
one saw then how they rode;
Both Christian knights and heathen,
each following their mode.
1354
How knightly was the bearing of
Dietrich’s gallant men!
Their javelins and lances went
flying forth amain
High over shields and bucklers,
by good knights’ hands address’d,
Then shiver’d were the shield-rims
of many a German guest.
1355
Then was a mighty crashing
of breaking lance and spear.
The warriors of the country
were all assembled there,
As were the king’s guests also—
a throng of noble men:
The mighty king was walking
with dame Kriemhilda then.
1356
They saw hard by them standing
a very noble tent;
The plain around was cover’d
by many a wooden pent,
Where folk might sit and rest them
when work was duly sped;
And many beauteous maidens
by heroes there were led
1357
Unto their royal mistress,
as she was sitting there
Upon the rich chair covers.
The margrave right good care
Had taken, so to fit it, that
everyone should find
Kriemhilda’s bower delightful:
and glad was Etzel’s mind.
1358
What Etzel spake unto her
it is not mine to say.
Meanwhile her small white fingers
within his right hand lay.
In loving fashion sat they,
for knightly Rüdeger
Would have no secret wooing
betwixt the king and her.
1359
Straightway commands were given
that all the games be stay’d;
With honour they were ended
and all the din allay’d.
Into the wooden houses
the men of Etzel hied;
And folk provided lodging
around for far and wide.
1360
The day had reached its ending:
they laid them down to sleep
Until the light of morning
again began to peep.
Then were the steeds bestridden
once more, by many a man:
Ha, and in Etzel’s honour
what pastimes then began!
1361
The king enjoin’d his Hunsmen
to do all honour bade.
Unto Vienna city
their way from Tuln they made;
There, deck’d in fine apparel,
full many a dame they found;
King Etzel’s wife these welcomed,
as in all honour bound.
1362
In all-sufficing plenty
whatever they would have
Was there, already for them.
Right many a warrior brave
With joy the sport awaited.
All went to hostelry.
And soon the royal wedding
began right merrily.
1363
But not for all could lodgings
be found within the town.
To such as were not strangers,
did Rüdeger make known
That they must seek out quarters
in country places round.
I ween there were at all times
near dame Kriemhilda found
1364
Dietrich, the noble warrior,
and many another thane.
These, in their work unresting,
but little peace mote gain
Till nothing should be lacking
to cheer the strangers’ mood.
So Rüdeger and his comrades
had rest and pastime good.
1365
The marriage was accomplish’d
one day in Whitsuntide,
When first the royal Etzel
lay by Kriemhilda’s side,
Within Vienna’s city.
So many men, thought she,
At her first husband’s bidding,
she surely ne’er did see.
1366
To those who had not seen her
she made herself well known
By gifts; yea many among them
unto the guests did own:
“We deemed that dame Kriemhilda
had little goods or gold—
But here hath she, by giving,
wrought marvels manifold.”
1367
The merry-making lasted
for days full seventeen.
And never was there told of
another king, I ween,
Whose wedding was more noble:
such is to us unknown.
All folk who there were present
did new apparel own.
1368
In Netherland, aforetime,
thought she, she ne’er had sat
With such a throng of warriors.
I say, moreover, that,
If great was Siegfried’s substance,
he ne’er had, as his men,
So many noble warriors
as stood round Etzel then.
1369
Nor was there ever any
who at his wedding-tide
Of mantles gave so many,
so rich and deep and wide;
Nor any such good raiment
as here there was to don.
In honour of Kriemhilda
was all in this wise done.
1370
Their friends and eke the strangers
were all alike of mind,
That there had been no sparing
in gear of any kind.
Whatever any wanted,
that presently he had.
Yea many a knight through kindness
was well-nigh naked made.
1371
Yet days of old in Rhineland
she could not quite forget,
Beside her noble husband;
and then her eyes grew wet.
She did her best to hide it,
lest anyone should see.
After so many a sorrow
much honour now had she.
1372
What others gave in bounty
no better was than air
Compared with Dietrich’s giving.
Whatever Botlung’s heir
Had given him for largesse,
that quickly lavish’d he.
Eke Rüdeger with bounty
was marvellously free.
1373
And Bloedelin came also,
the prince from Hungary,
And bade men take whatever
in many chests might be
Of gold and silver pieces:
’twas all to give away.
Then saw one the king’s heroes
keeping high holiday.
1374
The players of King Etzel,
Wärbel and Swemmelin,
I ween that either of them
did at the wedding win
A thousand marks for certain,
or maybe even more,
What time the fair Kriemhilda
her crown by Etzel wore.
1375
Upon the eighteenth morning
they from Vienna went.
Then was in knightly pastime
full many a buckler bent,
By lances that were carried
in every warrior’s hand.
Soon came the royal Etzel
unto the Hunnish land.
1376
In the old town of Heimburg
they rested overnight.
By then the throng of people
could no one tell aright,
Nor with what strength of numbers
they overspread the ground.
Ay me, and what fair women
they in his country found!
1377
At Miesenburg the wealthy
unto the boats they took.
The stream with men and horses
was hidden, as to look
Not otherwise than dry land;
yet ever seem’d to flow.
The women, travel-weary,
had ease and comfort now.
1378
Together had been fasten’d
ships many and right good,
That they might get no damage
from either waves or flood;
And many a well-made awning
thereover did they strain,
As if they still beneath them
had land and open plain.
1379
At Etzelburg, before them,
arrived these tidings then.
Whereat was great rejoicing
of women and of men.
The ladies of Queen Helka,
who erewhile were her care,
Soon many days and happy
did with Kriemhilda share.
1380
There stood and waited for her
full many a noble maid,
On whom abundant sorrow
since Helka’s death had weigh’d.
The daughters of kings seven
still there Kriemhilda found,
Who were the pride and glory
of Etzel’s land around.
1381
The maiden lady Herrat,
still of them all had care,
Queen Helka’s sister’s daughter,
of many virtues rare,
The bride betroth’d of Dietrich,
child of a king of fame,
The daughter, too, of Nentwein:
to honour great she came.
1382
Unto the guests’ arrival
she look’d with mood right glad,
Whereto great stores and treasure
were also ready made.
How later the king feasted—
who could it all declare?
And with a queen at no time
did Hunsmen better fare.
1383
As with his wife beside him
the king rode from the strand,
The noble dame Kriemhilda
was given to understand
The name of every lady,
the better them to greet.
Ay, mightily she bore her
sitting in Helka’s seat.
1384
To her was faithful service
render’d right readily.
Wherefore the queen divided
her gold and jewelry,
Her silver and apparel:
whatever she did convey
From over Rhine to Hunsland
must all be given away.
1385
Also with suit and service
subject to her, from then,
Were all of the king’s kinsmen,
and likewise all his men.
Never had Lady Helka
enjoy’d such potent sway;
So must they serve Kriemhilda
until her dying day.
1386
Then stood so high in honour
the court and realm around,
That men came there at all times,
and chosen pastime found—
To whatsoe’er it might be
that each one’s heart did lean—
Be it the king’s good favour
or bounty of the queen.
Adventure XXIII
How Kriemhilda Thought to Avenge Her Injury
1387
In great estate of honour,
as truly doth appear,
They dwelt with one another
until the seventh year.
During this time the king’s wife
brought forth a son and heir;
Whereat the royal Etzel
could ne’er be happier.
1388
She would not be persuaded
to be content with aught
But that the child of Etzel
should to the font be brought,
With Christian rites according.
Ortlieb they named the boy:
Which all through Etzel’s country
was cause of mickle joy.
1389
Whatever noble virtues
in Lady Helka lay,
To match them dame Kriemhilda
aye studied, day by day.
The customs soon were taught her,
by Herrat, maid forlorn,
Who with a secret longing
for Helka still did mourn.
1390
To native folk and strangers
she now was widely known:
’Twas said of her, that never
did any king’s land own
A better, milder mistress;
right sure of this they were.
Such fame she bore in Hunsland
until the thirteenth year.
1391
Now since she knew for certain
that none would her gainsay
E’en as kings’ warriors mostly
their princes’ wives obey—
And as twelve kings before her
were ever seen to come,
She thought on all the sorrows
that she had known at home.
1392
She thought, too, of the honours
that once in Niblung-land
Had been in her possession;
and which by Hagen’s hand,
At time of Siegfried’s murder,
were wholly done away:
And whether he might ever
for that be made to pay.
1393
“It might be, could I bring him
by some means to this land.”
She dreamt that she was walking,
and near her, close at hand,
Was Giselher, her brother,
and in her gentle sleep
She kissed him very often.
He soon had cause to weep!
1394
I ween some evil devil
Kriemhilda did provoke
That with her brother Gunther
her friendship now she broke,
Whom she, in full forgiveness,
kiss’d on Burgundian soil.
Then with hot tears began she
once more her robe to spoil.
1395
And ever, late and early,
within her heart it wrought
How, without fault on her part,
she had thereto been brought,
That henceforth with a heathen
she must in wedlock live;
This bitterness did Hagen
and Gunther, too, contrive.
1396
The wish that dwelt within her
ne’er let her heart alone;
Thought she: “I am so mighty,
and such great riches own.
That on my foes in vengeance
some ill I may repay.
Thus would I do right gladly
to Hagen of Tronjé.
1397
“My heart is longing sorely
for my dear faithful one:
Might I but get them near me
who ill to me have done,
So would I take full vengeance
for my beloved’s life;—
Scarce can I bide their coming;”
so murmur’d Etzel’s wife.
1398
The whole of the king’s liegemen
held highly in esteem
The warriors of Kriemhilda:
and well it was, I deem.
Her treasurer was Eckwart—
good friends thereby he made.
Nor could Kriemhilda’s wishes
by any be gainsaid.
1399
Now was she ever thinking:
“I will beseech the king!”
To wit, that of his goodness
he would allow this thing,
That unto the Hun-country
her kinsmen might be brought.
But no one there discover’d
the queen’s unholy thought.
1400
It came to pass one night-time,
as by the king she lay,
(His arms were cast about her,
as was his wont alway,
Loving the noble lady:
for she was as his life)
That of her foes was thinking
the fair and noble wife.
1401
And to the king thus spake she:
“My ever dear good lord,
I fain would ask a favour,
if thou wouldst such accord:
If I am worthy of it,
that thou shouldst let me see
Whether my friends and kinsmen
thou lovest verily.”
1402
Then spake the mighty sovran,
and guileless was his mood:
“I would have thee believe that,
if any grace or good
Be done unto those warriors,
I must thereat be glad,
Since I by love of woman
ne’er better friends have made.”
1403
And yet again the queen spake:
“To thee it hath been said,
That I have high-born kinsmen;
and this my grief hath made
That they have never troubled
to come to see me here.
I hear the people call me
naught else but foreigner.”
1404
Whereunto answer’d Etzel:
“Belovèd lady mine,
If not too far it seemeth,
so will I from the Rhine
Bid all unto my kingdom
whom thou art fain to see.”
When thus she learnt his purpose
right glad at heart was she.
1405
She said: “If thou right truly
wouldst serve me, master mine,
So wilt thou send an envoy
to Worms beyond the Rhine.
That I may tell my kinsfolk
all that I have in mind.
Then many a knight right noble
his way to us shall find.”
1406
“Whenever thou commandest,”
said he, “it shall be done.
Thou canst not be so eager
thy friends to look upon
As I of noble Uté the sons
to see am fain;
That we are still such strangers
hath caused me mickle pain.
1407
“And if it should content thee,
belovèd lady mine,
So will I send right gladly,
unto those friends of thine,
My players on the fiddle
to the Burgundian land.”
To bring the worthy fiddlers
straightway he gave command.
1408
They hasten’d very quickly
to where King Etzel sat.
And eke the queen beside him.
He told them both, how that
As envoys they were chosen
to Burgundy to fare.
For them he bade his people
rich raiment to prepare.
1409
For four-and-twenty warriors
was new apparel made;
And by the king their errand
was also to them said:
How Gunther and his people
to bring there they should seek.
But fain was Lady Kriemhild
apart with them to speak.
1410
Then said the king most mighty:
“Now hark ye what to do!
All that is good and kindly
I bid my friends, by you;
If they vouchsafe to journey
unto my kingdom here.
Ne’er yet have I had knowledge
of guests as these so dear.
1411
“And if they so be minded
my will herein to do,
These kinsmen of Kriemhilda,
then must they not forego
To come to us this summer,
to keep my wedding-feast;
For much on my wife’s kindred
my happiness doth rest.”
1412
Then spake the fiddle-player,
the haughty Schwemmelin:
“When will in this your kingdom
your wedding-feast begin?
That we to your friends yonder
unerringly may say.”
Then answer made King Etzel:
“On next Midsummer-day”
1413
“We’ll do as thou dost bid us,”
made answer Werbelin.
Then gave the queen an order
that they be brought within
Her private room in secret,
to speak with her alone.
Whereof soon many a warrior
but sorry comfort won.
1414
To both the envoys spake she:
“Well shall it be for you
If you my will and purpose
right faithfully shall do,
And say whate’er I bid you
when to my home you go;
In goods I’ll make you wealthy,
and raiment rich bestow.
1415
“What friends of mine soever
ye see and meet with there
At Worms on the Rhine river,
take heed lest ye declare
That ye have ever seen me
in melancholy mood:
And bear my greeting unto
those heroes bold and good.
1416
“To what the king requireth
beg them that they agree,
And thereby let them make me
from all my trouble free.
The Huns may well believe that
I have no friends at all.
Were I a knight, I’d ever
be ready at their call.
1417
“And to my noble brother,
to Gernot eke say ye
That in the world is no one
I hold more lovingly:
Our best of friends and kinsmen
bid him unto this land
To bring, that so the better
we may in honour stand.
1418
“To Giselher say also
that he must not forget
That never have I suffer’d
by fault of his as yet:
Wherefore would I right gladly
set eyes on him again;
And, for the faith he show’d me,
to see him here am fain.
1419
“And also tell my mother
what honours now I bear.
If Hagen, too, of Tronjé
shall still be dwelling there
By whom shall they more fitly
be through the country shown?
To him the roads to Hunsland
from childhood have been known.”
1420
Unknowing were the envoys
what meaning therein lay,
That Hagen, knight of Tronjé,
on no account should stay
Behind the rest in Rhineland.
Soon woe for them it made:
With him was many a warrior
to cruel death betray’d.
1421
With message and with letters
they were provided now:
To live henceforth in plenty
of wealth they had enow.
Their leave they took of Etzel
and of his lady fair.
And clad in rich apparel
a goodly sight they were.
Adventure XXIV
How Werbel and Schwemmel Did Their Errand
1422
When Etzel to the Rhineland
had sent his embassy,
The news thereof right swiftly
from land to land did fly:
He greeting gave and bade them,
by messengers right fleet,
To come unto his feasting:
whence many death did meet.
1423
From out the Huns’ dominions
the envoys swiftly went
To the Burgundian country;
for thither were they sent
Three noble kings to summon,
and eke their chivalry,
To come and visit Etzel:
so rode they speedily.
1424
First were they on their journey
to Bechelaren brought;
The folk there served them gladly.
That he might fail in naught
By them unto the Rhineland
sent greeting Rüdeger,
As also did Gotlinda
and eke their daughter dear.
1425
Nor did they send them further
without a proper meed,
Whereby the men of Etzel
made all the better speed.
To Uté and her children
sent message Rüdeger,
To say there lived no margrave
who meant them kindlier.
1426
Unto Brunhilda also
a kindly greeting went,
Of good faith ever steadfast,
and friendliest intent.
When they these words had taken,
forth would the envoys fare:
That God in Heaven would keep them,
was Gotelinda’s prayer.
1427
Ere yet the envoys fully
had cross’d Bavarian ground,
The ever-ready Werbel
the worthy bishop found.
What message for his kinsmen
upon the Rhine he told
Thereof I have no knowledge;
save that in ruddy gold
1428
He gave the twain a token
before he let them ride.
Quoth Pilgerin the bishop:
“And could I at my side
See them, so were I happy—
these sister’s sons of mine:
Scarce can I come to see them,
myself, unto the Rhine.”
1429
The ways by which they travell’d
o’er land unto the Rhine,
I cannot say for certain.
Silver and raiment fine
By none from them was stolen:
men fear’d their lord’s despite—
That king of noble lineage—
ay, potent was his might!
1430
In the Burgundian country,
to Worms upon the Rhine
Came, after twelve days’ riding,
Werbel and Schwemmelin.
Unto the king the tidings
were told, and to his men,
Of foreign envoys coming.
Gunther made question then.
1431
Quoth he, the Lord of Rhineland:
“Who can to us declare
Whence come these foreign riders
that through our country fare?”
But that was known to no one:
till Hagen of Tronjé,
As soon as he had seen them,
did thus to Gunther say:
1432
“Strange news to us is coming
that much I will aver.
The fiddle-players of Etzel
I have but now seen here.
Unto the Rhine your sister
hath sent them, verily;
For sake of both their sovereigns
right welcome must they be.”
1433
Meanwhile before the palace
in full array they rode;
No prince’s minstrels ever
in nobler fashion show’d.
The royal court-folk hasten’d
to meet them presently:
They bade men take their mantles
and found them hostelry.
1434
Their travelling clothes were costly,
with work so deftly done
That they might well with honour
before the king have gone.
Yet in the same apparel
to court they would not go:
Who cared for it might have it,
the envoys let men know.
1435
Without delay they met with
folk who were well content
To take the clothing gladly;
and unto them ’twas sent.
And thereupon the strangers
put on far better gear,
As it behoves kings’ heralds
in full array to wear.
1436
So went, when leave was given,
to where the monarch sat
Those followers of Etzel:
and all were glad thereat.
With courtesy did Hagen
towards the heralds make,
And gave them kindly greeting,
for which their thanks they spake.
1437
To learn from them the tidings
to questioning he fell,
If Etzel and his lieges
were faring all right well?
Then answer’d him the minstrel:
“Ne’er throve the country more,
Nor were the folk so happy—
of that thou may’st be sure.”
1438
Towards the host then went they.
Crowded the palace was;
Unto the guests was offer’d
such kindly welcome as
In foreign kings’ dominions
is ever given of right.
And there, in Gunther’s service,
found Werbel many a knight.
1439
And graciously King Gunther
began to greet them then:
“Be both of ye right welcome,
ye Hunnish minstrelmen,
And your companions also.
Ye are, I understand,
Sent hither by great Etzel
to the Burgundian land?”
1440
Before the king they bow’d them,
and then spake Werbelin:
“To thee his service offers
that well-loved lord of mine;
And to this land thy sister
Kriemhilda greeting saith.
They send us to you warriors
trusting in your good faith.”
1441
The mighty prince made answer:
“Of this right glad am I.
And tell me how is Etzel,”
so did the king reply.
“And eke my sister Kriemhild,
yonder in Hunnish land?”
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“I’ll answer this demand.
1442
“Of this ye may be certain,
that never yet there were
Two folks who lived together
more happy than this pair;
And all the knights around them,
their kinsfolk and their men.
When on this ride we started,
right joyous were they then.”
1443
“Gramercy for the greeting
he hath sent me this day,
And thank my sister also;
since it be as ye say,
That all live in contentment,
ruler and ruled as well:
For I with some misgiving,
ask’d ye the news to tell.”
1444
The king’s two younger brothers
had likewise come by now:
For they the news from Hunsland
but now had got to know.
And Giselher right gladly,
for his dear sister’s sake,
Set eyes upon the envoys
and kindly to them spake.
1445
“Right welcome must ye heralds
be unto me and mine,
And if ye rode more often
hither unto the Rhine,
Friends would ye find here always
rejoicing ye to see.
That aught should here befall you
small peril can there be.”
1446
“We trust you in all honour,”
made answer Schwemmelin.
“And never can I tell you
by any wit of mine,
How Etzel hath enjoin’d us
to greet you lovingly,
As hath your noble sister,
who there hath honour high.
1447
“Of former faith and kindness
the queen doth you remind,
And how with heart and body
you aye to her inclined.
But to the king’s self firstly
have we been sent, to pray
That into Etzel’s country
ye deign to take your way.
1448
“That we thereto should urge ye
hath given strict command
The rich and mighty Etzel,
who likewise doth demand
That if ye by your sister
would not again be seen,
Then would he fain have knowledge
of what his fault hath been
1449
“That ye are strangers to him,
and to his country, too;
For if the Queen Kriemhilda
were all unknown to you,
Still he himself were worthy
for you to come to see.
And were this thing to happen,
’twould please him verily.”
1450
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“A week from now being gone,
So will I give you tidings
of what conclusion
My friends and I have come to.
Meanwhile for you ’twere best
To go unto your hostel,
and may ye have good rest.”
1451
But Werbelin spake further:
“If such a thing might be,
Fain would we have permission
my lady first to see—
I mean the mighty Uté—
before our rest we seek.
Then Giselher the noble
in courtly wise did speak:
1452
“That no man shall deny you;
and if to her ye go,
Ye will my mother’s pleasure
right well accomplish so:
For gladly will she see ye;
and for my sister’s sake,
The Lady Kriemhild namely,
you welcome will she make.”
1453
So Giselher he brought them
to where they found the dame.
With joy she saw the heralds
who from the Huns’ land came;
And heartily did greet them,
so kindly was her mood.
Then told they her the tidings
those courtly heralds good.
1454
Spake Schwemmelin in this wise:
“My lady sends to thee
Her faithful love and duty;
and if it so might be
That she could see you often,
she bids you to believe
That in this world would nothing
more gladness to her give.”
1455
Whereto the queen made answer:
“Alas, it may not be!
Often as I am longing
my daughter dear to see,
Too distant dwelleth from me
your noble monarch’s wife.
May she and Etzel ever
be blessèd in their life.
1456
“But ye must give me warning,
ere from this place ye fare,
When ye will be returning;
for heralds saw I ne’er
For long days past so gladly,
as I have look’d on you.”
The squires then gave their promise
her will therein to do.
1457
And so unto their hostel
the men from Hunsland went.
Meanwhile for friends and kinsmen
the mighty king had sent.
The noble Gunther question
put unto every man
What thought he of the matter.
And many then began
1458
To say that he might fairly
ride unto Etzel’s land.
So counsell’d him the warriors
who did around him stand,
Excepting only Hagen—
to whom ’twas bitter woe.
He told the king in secret:
“Thou wilt thyself undo.
1459
“Thou know’st as well as I do
what thing we wrought of yore:
Needs must we of Kriemhilda
be fearful evermore,
Seeing I slew her husband,
and that with mine own hand.
How durst we take this journey
and ride to Etzel’s land?”
1460
Then spake the mighty Gunther:
“My sister’s wrath was spent.
Pardon to us she granted,
ere from this place she went,
With kisses of forgiveness,
for what to her was done:
Unless, it may be, Hagen,
that thee she hates alone.”
1461
“Be not deceived,” said Hagen,
“whate’er the message be
The envoys bring from Hunsland.
Would you Kriemhilda see,
Be well prepared to forfeit
your honour and your life:
Long-waiting in her vengeance
is she, King Etzel’s wife.”
1462
Thereon the princely Gernot
unto the council said:
“Because that thou with reason
to lose thy life dost dread
Within the Huns’ dominions,
must we then lay aside
This plan to see our sister?
right ill would that betide.”
1463
Prince Giselher then also
spake thus unto the knight:
“Since thou, friend Hagen, knowest
thou art the guilty wight,
So stay thou here in safety
and of thyself take care,
And let, with us, the bold ones
unto my sister fare.”
1464
With wrath began to kindle
the warrior of Tronjé:
“I will not have another
go with you on your way,
Who dares than I more boldly
on this court-ride to go.
Since ye will not be hinder’d,
that will I let you know.”
1465
Then spake the kitchen-master,
Rumold the worthy thane:
“Here friends and strangers can ye
right easily maintain
As ye yourselves are willing:
your stores are full, I trow;
And ne’er, I ween, hath Hagen
betray’d you hitherto.
1466
“If ye will heed not Hagen,
Rumold now counsels you—
And I have ever served you
with love and service true—
That here ye fain should tarry,
out of good will to me,
And let King Etzel yonder
along with Kriemhild be.
1467
“How otherwise in this world
could ye e’er better live?
In spite of all your foemen
here may you right well thrive;
You may your bodies freely
with raiment rich endue,
And wine drink of the choicest,
and winsome maidens woo.
1468
“Meats, too, are set before ye—
the best that e’er were brought
To any king in this world;
and if this all were naught,
You should, methinks, remain here
for sake of your fair wife—
Ere in such childish fashion
you seek to risk your life.
1469
“I counsel your abiding:
rich is your heritage.
At home can vassals better
to you redeem their pledge
Than yonder ’mid the Hunfolk.
Who knows how things be there?
My lords, go ye not thither:
thus Rumold doth declare!”
1470
Thereunto answer’d Gernot:
“Here will we tarry not,
Since we such friendly bidding
have from my sister got,
And from the mighty Etzel.
Why put the thing aside?
Who goes not gladly with us
may e’en at home abide.”
1471
And thereto answer’d Hagen:
“See lest ye take amiss
The words that I have spoken,
howe’er ye do in this.
I give you faithful counsel:
as ye regard your life,
Go well-arm’d to the Hunfolk,
as if for battle-strife.
1472
“Will ye not be dissuaded,
so send ye for your men,
The best that ye can muster
or any way can gain;
And from them all I’ll choose ye
a thousand warriors good:
So may ye fear no evil
from angry Kriemhild’s mood.”
1473
“That rede I’ll gladly follow,”
the king in answer said.
Then sent he heralds riding,
who through his kingdom sped.
And so they brought the warriors,
three thousand men or more.
They dreamt not of the evil
that lay for them in store.
1474
All through the lands of Gunther
right joyously they rode.
On every man a charger
and raiment were bestow’d—
Of those who were to journey
away from Burgundy.
A goodly number follow’d
the king right willingly.
1475
Then Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
his brother Dankwart bade
The four score knights who served them
unto the Rhine to lead.
They came in knightly order;
with arms and wearing gear
Within King Gunther’s borders
right soon did they appear.
1476
Now came the gallant Volker—
a high-born minstrel he—
To join with thirty liegemen
the royal company.
Such splendid raiment had they,
a king had worn it well.
That he would ride to Hunsland,
to Gunther bade he tell.
1477
Now who was this same Volker
I fain would let you know:
He was of noble lineage;
to him did fealty owe
In the Burgundian country,
full many a noble knight.
Because he play’d the fiddle
he was the Minstrel hight.
1478
Then Hagen chose the thousand:
they were to him well-known;
And what in hard-fought battles
their strength of hand had done,
And all they e’er had ventured,
that had he seen full well.
No man of aught save valour
in all their deeds could tell.
1479
The envoys of Kriemhilda
were sore discomfited,
For they of both their rulers
the wrath began to dread;
And leave they daily sought for,
that they might thence begone.
But Hagen would not grant it:
through cunning that was done.
1480
He said unto his masters:
“We must be on our guard
Lest we to go allow them,
before we are prepared
Within a week thereafter
to Etzel’s land to go.
If any ill-will bear us,
thus shall we better know.
1481
“So shall not Dame Kriemhilda
be taking heed hereto,
That any, by her counsel,
should evil to us do.
And if it be her purpose
her own may be the pain:
With us to Hunsland take we
so many chosen men.”
1482
Their bucklers, then, and saddles,
and all of such like gear
As they to Etzel’s country
had in their minds to bear,
By many valiant liegemen
for use were ready made.
The envoys of Kriemhilda
were unto Gunther bade.
1483
And when the heralds enter’d,
unto them Gernot said:
“The king will take the offer
to us by Etzel made;
And we will come right gladly
unto his festival,
And see again our sister:
of that doubt not at all.”
1484
Then spake to them King Gunther:
“Can ye not tell us, pray,
When is this merry-making?
or rather, on what day
’Twere best that we come thither?”
’Twas Schwemmelin replied:
“Ye must be there for certain
at next Midsummer-tide.”
1485
The king unto them granted,
if haply they were will’d
(For not yet had they done it)
to see the Dame Brunhild,
That they with his approval
might to her presence go.
It was gainsaid by Volker:
for her sake did he so.
1486
“In sooth the Lady Brunhild
is not now in the mood
For you to look upon her,”
so spake the warrior good.
“Wait ye until to-morrow,
then her they’ll let you see.”
So hoped they to behold her;
but it was not to be.
1487
The mighty prince then order’d
(he held those envoys dear)
Out of his own great kindness,
that folk should thither bear
His gold upon broad bucklers;
great store thereof he had.
And by his kinsmen also
rich gifts to them were made.
1488
For Giselher and Gernot,
Gere and Ortwein, too,
That they were kindly-hearted
right plainly then did shew.
They such abundant largess
unto the envoys gave,
That, fearful of their rulers,
none of it would they have.
1489
Then Werbelin the herald
unto the king did say:
“Your gifts, Lord King, so please ye,
let in your kingdom stay;
We may not take them with us;
my lord bade us take heed,
Lest gifts by us be taken:
nor is there any need.”
1490
Then did the Lord of Rhineland
this thing unkindly take,
That they a great king’s treasure
of small account should make;
So were they bound to take it,
his gold and habiting,
And unto Etzel’s country
were fain with them to bring.
1491
They would see Uté also
ere they set forth again.
So Giselher the ready
brought both the minstrelmen
Unto his mother Uté.
This word the lady sent:
That if Kriemhild were honour’d
her mother was content.
1492
Then bade the queen be given
of gold and broidery,
All for the sake of Kriemhild—
so dear to her was she—
And for the sake of Etzel,
unto the minstrels both.
They readily might take it:
’twas done in honest troth.
1493
The messengers’ leave-taking
was done; and now they had
Parted from men and maidens;
and so with hearts right glad
They rode on into Swabia;
thus far ’twas Gernot’s will
His heroes should escort them,
that none might do them ill.
1494
When they, who thus did guard them,
parted and homewards rode,
In Etzel’s power a safeguard
they found on ev’ry road,
Whence none essay’d to rob them
of horse or wearing gear.
And so to Etzel’s country
they speedily drew near.
1495
Where’er they found acquaintance,
to them the news they said:
How the Burgundian people,
ere many days were sped,
Unto the Hunfolk’s country
were coming from the Rhine.
The news was carried also
to Bishop Pilgerin.
1496
As they by Bechelaren
along the highway went,
To Rüdeger folk told it—
as naught could well prevent—
And also to Gotlinda,
the margrave’s wedded wife.
That she was soon to see them
was joy unto her life.
1497
Folk saw how with the tidings
the minstrels swiftly rode,
Until they found King Etzel
at Gran, where he abode.
And greeting upon greeting
which unto him were sent
They to the king deliver’d;
ruddy with joy he went.
1498
And when the queen the tidings
did fairly understand,
That verily her brothers
were coming to the land,
In mood she was right happy;
and both the minstrelmen
With costly gifts rewarded:
and honour had she then.
1499
“Now Schwemmelin and Werbel,
each one of you,” said she,
“Tell me which of my kinsmen
will at our feasting be,
Of whom the best and dearest
unto our land we bade?
And, when the news was told him,
tell me what Hagen said?”
1500
They said: “One morning early
he came to the debate,
And not a good word from him
we early had or late;
And when the ride to Hunsland
was praised by all the folk
Grim Hagen looked not elsewise
than if of death they spoke.
1501
“Your brothers here are coming,
the noble kings all three,
In high and lordly humour.
But who with them may be
That news I cannot give you,
seeing I do not know;
But Volker the bold minstrel
hath vow’d with them to go.”
1502
“Him could I spare right blithely,”
in answer spake the queen:
“Since many a time and often
here Volker have I seen.
But fain I am of Hagen,
the hero excellent;
That here we soon shall see him
doth give me much content.”
1503
Then went the royal lady
where she the king did find;
How gently Dame Kriemhilda
unto him spake her mind!
“How do the tidings please thee,
my lord beloved,” she said,
“Now all my heart hath yearned for
shall be accomplishèd.”
1504
“Thy will is eke my pleasure,”
thus did the king reply,
“Nor any of my kindred
so glad to see were I,
If e’er they should be coming
hither unto my land.
For sake of them that love thee
is all my trouble bann’d.”
1505
King’s officers then straightway
commandment gave to all
That seats should be made ready
in palace and in hall,
Meet for the guests belovèd
who would be there anon.
By them, ere long, for Etzel
was pleasure all fordone.
Adventure XXV
How the Lords All Went to the Huns
1506
Now let us leave the story
of how they prosper’d there.
Ere then did never warriors
of higher courage fare
In such like state and splendour
through any king’s domain.
Of armour and apparel
all had as they were fain.
1507
The warden of the Rhineland
equipp’d his warriors bold,
A thousand knights and sixty,
so is the story told,
With men-at-arms nine thousand
for this great festival.
They whom they left behind them
ere long bewail’d them all.
1508
Their riding gear they carried
to Worms across the court.
Whereon an aged bishop
of Spires spake in this sort
Unto the comely Uté:
“Our friends have mind to fare
Unto this high assembly:
God guard their honour there!”
1509
Thereon unto her children
did noble Uté say:
“Ye should, my noble heroes,
be here content to stay:
I dreamt a dream this morning,
of great dismay and dread;
How all the winged creatures
within this land were dead.”
1510
“Who puts his faith in dreamings,”
then Hagen made reply,
“Knows not the proper meaning
that may within them lie,
When honour, peradventure,
may wholly be at stake.
I’m willing that my masters
for court their leave should take.”
1511
“We should indeed with gladness
ride unto Etzel’s land:
There kings can have the service
of many a hero’s hand,
When there we take our part in
Kriemhilda’s revelry.”
Hagen the journey counsell’d:
he rued it presently.
1512
He would have been against it,
if Gernot had not sought
With ill-advisèd speeches
to set him so at naught:
Reminding him of Siegfried,
the Lady Kriemhild’s lord;
Said he: “This ride to Hagen
is therefore untoward.”
1513
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“Through fear I’ll not forego!
If such your will is, heroes,
’twere well to buckle to.
Gladly will I ride with you,
e’en unto Etzel’s realm.”
Soon by his hand were shatter’d
full many a shield and helm.
1514
The boats were ready waiting,
and many a man was there:
Whate’er they had of clothing
on board forthwith they bare.
Unwearyingly wrought they
until the fall of eve;
And full of joy and gladness
at length their homes they leave.
1515
Their tents and wooden cabins
were pitch’d upon the green
Along the further Rhine-bank.
When finish’d this had been,
The king’s fair wife besought him
a while there to abide
For one night would she lay her
his manly form beside.
1516
With trumpeting and fluting
the early morning brake,
To warn them to be starting:
then did they ready make.
If any had a sweetheart
her to his heart he laid;—
For them a bitter parting
King Etzel’s wife soon made!
1517
The sons of the fair Uté
for vassal had a man
As bold as he was faithful;
now, when the march began,
He to the king, in secret,
did thus his mind declare.
Said he: “It needs must grieve me
that to this feast ye fare.”
1518
This man by name was Rumold,
a knight of ready hand.
“To whom,” so spake he, “leave ye
your people and your land?
Alas, that none can turn you,
ye warriors, from your mood!
This message of Kriemhilda’s
to me ne’er boded good.”
1519
“To thee my realm be trusted,
and eke my little son,
Serve faithfully the ladies;
so let my will be done.
Shouldst thou see any mourner,
’tis thine to cheer his life.
No harm will e’er befall us
by cause of Etzel’s wife.”
1520
The horses were awaiting
the kings and eke their men;
With loving kiss departed
full many a husband then,
Whose heart was full of courage,
and body strong with life:
Soon to be sadly wept for
by many a comely wife.
1521
Who saw the eager warriors
unto their horses go,
Saw likewise many a lady
there standing in her woe.
That they for long were parting
too surely did they feel,
Foreboding great disaster.
Heart never thus had weal.
1522
Now quickly the Burgundians
did on their journey ride.
Then was there much disturbance
through all the country wide;
On either side the mountains
both women wept and men.
Howe’er their people bare it
forth fared they blithely then.
1523
The warriors of Niblung
to ride with them had come,
A thousand men in hauberks,
who left behind at home
Full many a lovely lady,
ne’er to be seen again.
Still wrought the wounds of Siegfried
in Kriemhild bitter pain.
1524
Their course they now directed,
King Gunther’s gallant men,
Up through the East Franks’ country,
towards the River Main;
And thither led them Hagen,
who knew the road of old.
Their marshal was Sir Dankwart,
Burgundian hero bold.
1525
As they from Eastern Franks’ land
to Schwanefeld rode on,
Well might they be to all men
by noble bearing known,
These princes and their kinsmen,
heroes deserving fame.
The king on the twelfth morning
unto the Danube came.
1526
Then Hagen, knight of Tronjé,
rode of them all foremost;
Good heart and courage gave he
unto the Niblung host.
The warrior bold dismounted,
down on the sand stood he,
And hastily his warhorse
made fast unto a tree.
1527
The stream was overflowing,
no skiff was there to see,
The Nibelungs misdoubted,
in great anxiety,
How they should e’er get over;
the flood was all too wide.
The gallant knights dismounted
hard by the river-side.
1528
“Much damage,” said Sir Hagen,
“may here be done to thee,
Ruler of the Rhineland!
Look for thyself and see;
The river is o’erflowing,
and mighty is its flood.
I trow we lose ere nightfall
here many a hero good.”
1529
“What art thou casting at me,
Hagen?” the great king spake.
“Seek not again to daunt us
for thine own honour’s sake.
The ford thou shalt find for us,
which to that land doth cross,
That we both steeds and raiment
may take there without loss.”
1530
“My life to me,” quoth Hagen,
“is not yet such a load
That I should wish to drown me
in this wide, rushing flood!
For by my hands I’d sooner
that many a man should die
In Etzel’s country yonder:
goodwill thereto have I.
1531
“Proud warriors and goodly,
stay by the water then,
Whilst I along the river
myself seek ferrymen,
Who presently will take us
across to Gelfrat’s land.”
Then took the doughty Hagen
his good shield in his hand.
1532
Well clad was he in armour;
his shield he did thereon,
And on his head his helmet;
brightly enow it shone.
Above his harness wore he
a sword so broad of blade
That wounds right deep and ghastly
with either edge it made.
1533
Then up and down the river
he sought some ferryman;
He heard a splash of water;
to hearken he began.
’Twas made by elfin women
within a fountain fair,
Who fain to cool their bodies
were bathing themselves there.
1534
As soon as Hagen saw them
he slyly towards them crept.
No sooner had they seen him
than off they swiftly leapt.
That thus they had escaped him
did please them mightily;
He took their raiment from them,
no further harm did he.
1535
Then spake one of the mermaids,
Hadburga was she hight:
“O Hagen, noble warrior,
we’ll tell to thee aright,
How thou upon this journey
unto the Huns shalt thrive,
If thou, bold thane, our raiment
again to us wilt give.”
1536
They floated like to sea-birds
before him on the flood.
It seemed to him their foresight
must needs be sure and good.
Whatever they should tell him
he, therefore, would believe.
To whatsoe’er he ask’d them,
wise answers they would give.
1537
Said she: “To Etzel’s country
ye certainly may take
This ride; and I am ready
my faith thereon to stake,
That ne’er did heroes journey
to any kingdom yet—
In truth ye may believe it—
who did such honour get.”
1538
This saying made Sir Hagen
within his heart right gay,
Then gave he them their garments
and made no more delay.
When they their wondrous raiment
forthwith had donn’d again,
The way to Etzel’s country
aright they did explain.
1539
Then spake the other mermaid,
her name was Siegelind:
“Thee, Hagen, son of Aldrian,
to warn I have a mind.
False was it what my sister
to get her clothing said:
For comest thou to Hunsland,
thou’lt sorely be betray’d.
1540
“Ay! homeward shouldst thou turn thee;
yet is there time to spare:
Seeing that ye, bold heroes,
have thus been bidden there,
That all of you may perish
within King Etzel’s land.
Whoe’er goes riding thither
hath Death at his right hand.”
1541
But Hagen spake in answer:
“Ye fool me needlessly;
What rhyme or reason is it
that all of us should die
Among the Hunfolk yonder,
through hate of any man?”
More fully then their meaning
to tell him they began.
1542
And one of them spake further:
“It must in sooth be so,
That none with life escapeth
who to that land doth go,
Save only the king’s chaplain;
that can we surely tell;
He unto Gunther’s kingdom
will come back safe and well.”
1543
Then, in grim mood, bold Hagen
answer unto her made:
“ ’Twere hard to tell my masters
what thou just now hast said,
That yonder ’mid the Hunfolk
we all must lose our lives.
Show us across the water,
thou wisest of all wives!”
1544
She said: “Against this journey
since thou wilt nothing hear,
There yonder in a hostel,
unto the river near,
A ferryman is dwelling—
and none there is elsewhere.”
Then knowing what he wanted
he would not tarry there.
1545
But one of them call’d after
the knight discomfited:
“Nay, wait awhile, Sir Hagen,
thou wilt too fast ahead!
Hear better how we tell you
to cross the sands aright;
The warden of the marchland
by name is Else hight.
1546
“He hath a brother also,
Gelfrat the knight is he,
A great lord in Bavaria.
Not easy will it be
For you to pass his marches.
Ye ought to well beware—
And with the boatman also
ye needs must deal with care.
1547
“So grim is he of humour,
he will not let you go,
Unless unto the hero
some good intent ye show:
Would ye by him be ferried,
give him the payment due.
This land he hath in keeping,
and is to Gelfrat true.
1548
“And if he come not quickly
shout to him o’er the flood,
Say ‘Amelrich’ your name is;—
he was a hero good,
Who, by his foes’ contrivance,
was driven from this land—
Whene’er his name is spoken
the steersman is at hand.”
1549
The haughty Hagen bow’d him
before these womenfolk:
But listening in silence
no word again he spoke.
Then higher up the river
he walk’d, along the sand;
And there, across the water,
he saw a hostel stand.
1550
Then lustily began he
to call across the flood:
“Now, steersman, fetch me over!”
shouted the warrior good;
“Of ruddy gold an armlet
I’ll give thee for reward.
The matter of my journey,
I tell thee, presses hard.”
1551
The boatman was so wealthy
to serve he would not brook,
Wherefore a fee but seldom
from anyone he took;
His underlings were likewise
of high and haughty mood.
So, still, alone stood Hagen
on this side of the flood.
1552
Then with such might he shouted
that, lo, from shore to shore
The river rang: the hero
of strength had such great store:
“Now Amelrich come fetch ye,
Lord Else’s man am I,
Who had to leave this country
by force of enmity.”
1553
High on his sword an armlet
towards him did he hold—
All bright and shining was it,
compact of ruddy gold—
That he, therefore, might row him
across to Gelfrat’s land.
Then took the haughty boatman
himself the oar in hand.
1554
The ferryman was churlish
and obstinate of will—
The lust of great possession
doth often end in ill—
He wished to earn from Hagen
that band of gold so red:
But from the warrior’s weapon
grim death he got instead.
1555
The ferryman pull’d stoutly
unto the hitherside;
But when the man he found not,
whose name he had heard cried,
Then was he wroth in earnest.
At Hagen’s face look’d he,
And thus unto the hero
he spake right bitterly:
1556
“It may be that thou bearest
the name of Amelrich;
To him of whom I mind me
thou art in no wise like;
By father and by mother
he brother was to me.
And as thou hast betray’d me,
thou here canst bide!” said he.
1557
“Not I, by God Almighty!”
thereon, did Hagen speak:
“I am a stranger warrior,
and help for others seek.
Take now in friendly fashion
this wage I offer you
To put me o’er the water;
I am your friend right true.”
1558
The ferryman made answer:
“Nay, that shall never be!
My well-belovèd masters
have many an enemy;
Therefore I row no strangers
across unto their land.
If life thou prizest, quickly
step out upon the sand.”
1559
“Now, do not so,” quoth Hagen,
“for sorry is my mood,
But take from me in kindness
this band of gold so good,
A thousand men and horses
across the stream to row.”
The boatman grim gave answer:
“That will I never do.”
1560
A sturdy oar he lifted,
mighty and broad of blade,
And struck a blow at Hagen;
an erring stroke he made,
And in the boat he stagger’d
and on his knee fell down.
A ferryman so gruesome
Hagen had never known.
1561
And when the haughty stranger
still more he would provoke,
A steering board he wielded,
and into splinters broke
About the head of Hagen.
A stalwart man was he;
Whence came to Else’s boatman
much sorrow presently.
1562
In anger fiercely raging,
Hagen reach’d out his hand
In haste to seize his scabbard,
wherefrom he drew a brand,
And smote his head from off him,
and dash’d it to the ground.
Among the proud Burgundians
the news flew quickly round.
1563
But at the self-same moment
when he the boatman slew,
The skiff stream-downwards drifted,
which gave him cause to rue;
For ere in hand he brought it
to weary he began,
Then mighty was the rowing
of royal Gunther’s man.
1564
With sturdy strokes the stranger
turn’d it about again,
Until within his hand-grasp
the stout oar broke in twain.
He would, to reach the warriors,
a sandy beach have found:
And having not another,
how quickly now he bound
1565
The splinters with his shield-strap!
’twas but a slender band.
Towards a coppice steering,
he brought the boat to land.
There on the bank-side standing
he found his masters three,
And liegemen came to meet him—
a goodly company.
1566
Him with kind welcome greeted
these noble knights and good.
But, when they look’d within it,
the wherry reek’d with blood
That from the great wound spurted
as he the boatman slew;
Then from the warriors Hagen
had questions not a few.
1567
No sooner had King Gunther
seen the hot blood all red
Within the vessel washing,
than, straightway, thus he said:
“Come, why not tell me, Hagen,
where is the boatman gone?
I ween your strength so mighty
hath him of life fordone.”
1568
With lying words he answer’d:
“As I the boat there found
A desert heath alongside,
my hand the rope unbound;
But never of a boatman
have I to-day had sight,
Nor here by fault on my part,
hath any had despite.”
1569
Then one of the Burgundians,
the noble Gernot, said:
“To-day I needs must sorrow
for friends soon to be dead;
Since we have found no boatman
waiting for us at hand,
How are we to come over?
For that in fear I stand.”
1570
Right loudly then cried Hagen:
“Lay down upon the green,
Ye squires, the horses’ trappings:
I mind me I have been
The best of all the rowers
that on the Rhine were found.
I’ll wager I can bring you
across to Gelfrat’s ground.”
1571
That they might be the sooner
ferried across the flood,
They drave the horses in it;
whose swimming was so good,
That, strong as was the current,
they cross’d it none the less;
Though some far downwards drifted
in very weariness.
1572
Their gold and all their baggage
unto the ship they bore,
Since from this journey’s ending
they now could turn no more.
And Hagen was the captain;
he ferried to the strand
Full many a gallant warrior
into the unknown land.
1573
Of noble knights a thousand
first brought he to the shore,
And after these his warriors,
and ever there were more:
Of men-at-arms nine thousand
he ferried safe to land,
Nor all day long did weary
the gallant Tronian’s hand.
1574
When he the whole in safety
across the flood had brought,
The warrior bold and eager
of that strange story thought
Which the wild water-maidens
erewhile to him had said.
Then for King Gunther’s chaplain
the days were well-nigh sped!
1575
Amidst the chapel baggage
he sought and found the priest,
Who on his hand was leaning,
that on the Pyx did rest.
But little that avail’d him
when Hagen him did spy:
The all-forsaken chaplain
must suffer grievously.
1576
Out of the skiff he swung him,
ere yet a moment pass’d,
Though many voices shouted:
“Stay him, good sirs, avast.”
Young Giselher fell a-cursing
in anger at the sight;
Yet would not Hagen heed him,
but did it in despite.
1577
Then spake the noble Gernot,
the lord of Burgundy:
“This chaplain’s death, O Hagen,
now what avails it thee?
Had any other done it
it would have pleased you ill.
For what default or reason
sought’st thou the priest to kill.”
1578
As best he could he floated,
and well escaped had he,
Had any dared to help him;
but that was not to be,
Because the mightful Hagen
was of too angry mood:
He thrust him under water—
that seem’d to no one good.
1579
Now when the wretched chaplain
no help saw in his need,
Backward again he turn’d him;
sore was his plight indeed.
Yet though to swim he knew not,
God help’d him with His hand,
That safe and sound in body
he got once more to land.
1580
There stood the hapless chaplain
and shook his raiment out;
And thereby well knew Hagen
that now there was no doubt
But true the tale was, told him
by those wild water-wives.
Thought he: “Then all these warriors
perforce must lose their lives.”
1581
When that the three kings’ lieges
the ship had all unstored,
And unto land had carried
whate’er they had on board,
Hagen to pieces hew’d it
and flung it in the flood.
Whereover marvell’d greatly
those warriors bold and good.
1582
“Why dost thou thus, O brother?”
to him did Dankwart say:
“How shall we cross the water
when on our homeward way,
We ride again from Hunsland
unto the Rhine country?”
“Look you,” to him said Hagen,
“that thing can never be!”
1583
Then spake the lord of Tronjé:
“This do I with the thought
That, should we on this journey
have any cravens brought,
Who fain would basely leave us,
through cowardice of mind,
They must a shameful ending
here in this river find.”
1584
A man there was amongst them
from Burgundy who came,
By might of hand a hero,
and Volker was his name.
Right cunningly he utter’d
all that was in his mind,
And whatsoe’er did Hagen
this minstrel good did find.
1585
The chargers now were ready,
each packhorse had its load.
So far, the host no damage
had suffered on the road
To daunt them, or to trouble,
except the chaplain’s loss;
Who needs must to the Rhineland
on foot the country cross.
Adventure XXVI
How Gelfrat Was Slain by Dankwart
1586
When they were all come over
unto the further strand,
The king began to question:
“Who will throughout this land
Show us the proper pathways—
lest we should stray afar?”
Then spake the valiant Volker:
“Alone for that I’ll care.”
1587
“Now bide ye yet,” said Hagen,
“if squire you be or knight,
A friend’s word should be follow’d;
that seems to me but right.
I have unwelcome tidings
to make known unto ye:
No more shall we return to
the land of Burgundy!
1588
“To-day, at early morning,
told me mermaidens two,
That we should home return not.
Now rede I what to do:
Look to your weapons, heroes,
ye needs must well beware;
Here have we mighty foemen,
and warily must fare.
1589
“I thought to catch her lying,
that wily mermaiden:
She swore that none among us
should ever come again
Alive unto our country,
except the priest alone:
Whom therefore I this morning
have done my best to drown.”
1590
Then quickly flew these tidings,
from troop to troop they spread;
From the keen heroes’ faces
for grief the colour fled;
To sorrow then began they
that this court-ride should lead
To bitter death as ending:
in sooth, they had good need.
1591
Nigh Moeringen the place was
where they the flood had cross’d.
The ferryman of Else
there, too, his life had lost.
And thereupon said Hagen:
“Seeing that I have made
Foes on the road, I doubt not
that we shall be waylaid.
1592
“To-day that self-same boatman
at early dawn I slew;
Ye know right well the story.
Now buckle quickly to,
That if this day should Gelfrat
or Else here essay
To fall upon our people,
they shall the damage pay.
1593
“For such bold men I know ye,
this cannot fail to be.
’Twere well to let your horses,
therefore, go quietly,
That none should deem we’re passing
along the roads in flight.”
“That counsel will I follow,”
said Giselher the knight.
1594
“But who shall now our people
across the country show?”
They answer’d: “That shall Volker,
for right well doth he know
The highways and the byways,
a gallant minstrel he.”
Before their wish was utter’d,
the fiddler they could see
1595
Standing well-arm’d before them.
He bound his helmet on,
And on his battle-mantle
the glorious colour shone.
As signal, on a lance-shaft,
a pennon red he bore.
But with the kings, thereafter,
he fell on trouble sore.
1596
Meanwhile the boatman’s murder
became to Gelfrat known
By message all undoubted;
and eke the news had gone
To Else the most mighty;
and sore aggrieved were they.
They sent to call their chieftains,
who came without delay.
1597
In space of time the shortest—
I would to you make known—
Were seen unto them riding
men, who erewhile had done
Sore scathe and dread achievements
in direst stress of war.
Of such there came to Gelfrat
seven hundred men or more.
1598
Their foemen fierce to challenge
to ride they then began,
Led by their lords aforesaid.
Too readily they ran
To catch the doughty strangers
and wipe away their shame.
Of their retainers many
by death thereafter came.
1599
Meanwhile, Hagen of Tronjé
for that had taken care;
(How could a hero better
for all his friends beware?)
Together with his liegemen
the watch by night kept he,
As did his brother Dankwart:
’twas done right prudently.
1600
The day its course had ended
and light they had no more.
He fear’d for friends and comrades
with heavy dread and sore.
Their road throughout Bavaria
beneath their shields they track’d,
And ere they long had ridden
the heroes were attack’d.
1601
On both sides of the roadway
behind them, coming fast,
They heard the tramp of horse-hoofs,
too noisy in their haste.
Then spake the gallant Dankwart:
“Here will they fall on us!
Now fasten on your helmets—
’twere wise to wait them thus.”
1602
They halted on their journey,
naught else was to be done.
They saw how in the darkness
the polish’d bucklers shone,
Until at last would Hagen
no longer brook delay:
“Who hunts us on the highway?”
to him must Gelfrat say.
1603
In this wise then the Margrave—
he of Bavaria—spake:
“Our foemen we are seeking,
and now are on their track.
I know not who hath slain me
my ferryman this day,
He was a skilful hero,
and sorrow well I may.”
1604
To him spake he of Tronjé:
“And was that boatman thine?
He would not take us over.
The guilt thereof is mine,
For then I slew the warrior;
in sooth, there was good need,
Since at his hands I elsewise
had got my death instead.
1605
“I offer’d him for guerdon
good gold and raiment fine
To ferry us, O hero!
unto this land of thine,
Which anger’d him so sorely
that he at me a blow
Aim’d with a sturdy barge-pole;
then I grew fierce enow,
1606
“And clutching at my broadsword,
I paid him back again
With blows that deeply wounded;
so was the hero slain.
Amends therefore I’ll make thee,
howe’er thou thinkest good.”
Then fell the two to wrangle:
both were of stubborn mood.
1607
“Full well I knew,” said Gelfrat,
“that when this way did ride
Gunther and his retainers,
much ill would us betide
Through Hagen, lord of Tronjé.
Not hence alive goes he;
For my poor boatman’s murder
he must the forfeit be.”
1608
Above their bucklers bent they
their lances for the thrust,
Sir Gelfrat and Sir Hagen;
each at the other must.
Then Else, too, and Dankwart
came riding gallantly,
To try each other’s mettle;
the fight raged fiercely.
1609
How otherwise might heroes
more featly try their strength?
By a hard lance-thrust smitten
Hagen the bold, at length,
From off his horse fell backwards,
by Gelfrat’s hand laid low
His saddle-bow was broken
and downfall he must know.
1610
Among the yeomen’s lances
arose a clashing sound.
Then up again rose Hagen,
who, whilom on the ground
From Gelfrat’s blow, had fallen
upon the meadow-grass.
His mood, methinks, to Gelfrat
of sort ungentle was.
1611
Who held in charge their horses,
that is to me unknown;
The twain were now dismounted
and on the sand stood down—
Hagen, to wit, and Gelfrat,
who at each other flew;
The folk of either aided
who of the combat knew.
1612
How mightfully soever
Hagen on Gelfrat leapt,
The noble margrave parried;
and with one stroke he swept
A great piece off his buckler—
that sparks therefrom were shed;
Whereby King Gunther’s vassal
was well-nigh stricken dead.
1613
Thereon he unto Dankwart
to call aloud began:
“Dear brother, help me quickly!
for, lo, a mighty man
Hath got me at his mercy;
he’ll make an end of me!”
Then spake the valiant Dankwart:
“To that I soon will see.”
1614
Then nearer sprang the hero
and struck so fell a blow
With keen edge of his weapon,
that dead he laid him low.
Then fain had Else taken
some vengeance for the wight;
But he and all his people
went off in sorry plight.
1615
His brother had been slaughter’d;
himself, too, had a wound;
Full eighty of his warriors
lay there upon the ground
In grim Death’s grip forever;
needs must the hero then
Turn round and flee for safety
before King Gunther’s men.
1616
Now while they of Bavaria
along the road did flee,
The horrid sounds of slaughter
were heard unceasingly.
So did the men of Tronjé
after their foemen chase,
Who of defeat had dreamt not;
too soon it came to pass.
1617
And while they still were fleeing,
Dankwart the thane call’d out:
“Upon the road right quickly
we ought to turn about
And let them run at leisure:
all wet they are with blood!
Unto our friends return we;
in sooth I deem it good.”
1618
Now when they were returnèd
to where the fight had been,
Spake Hagen, lord of Tronjé:
“Ye heroes, be it seen
What damage we have suffer’d,
and who to us is lost;
By reason of this battle which
Gelfrat’s wrath hath cost.”
1619
A loss of four they reckon’d;
these must they grieve for well.
But fully they aveng’d were:
for against them there fell
Of the Bavarian warriors
a hundred men and more;
Whereby the Tronians’ bucklers
were dimm’d and wet with gore.
1620
Just then a gleam of moonlight
between the clouds did break.
“Now look ye well that no one,”
so to them Hagen spake,
“Betray to my dear masters
what we have done this day;
Let them until the morning
free from all trouble stay.”
1621
When they who had been fighting
had now caught up the rest,
With weariness the people
were grievously distress’d.
“How long,” were many asking,
“must we be riding yet?”
And doughty Dankwart answer’d:
“No lodging can we get.
1622
“Until the dawn of morning
ye all must onwards ride.”
Volker the quick, who all things
did for the folk provide,
Bade some one ask the marshal:
“Where shall we go towards,
That we may rest our horses
and eke our well-loved lords?”
1623
Then spake the doughty Dankwart:
“In sooth I cannot say,
But there must be no resting
before the dawn of day;
Then, wheresoe’er we find it,
upon the grass we’ll lie.”
Some, when they heard this bidding,
were sore aggrieved thereby.
1624
So were they undiscover’d
by the warm blood-stains red,
Until the sun uprising
with his bright beams had shed
The day-dawn o’er the mountains;
then first the king did see
That they had fought. The hero
spake to them wrathfully:
1625
“How now? ye have, friend Hagen,
methinks but small regard
For this my presence with you,
seeing ye thus have dared
To stain with blood your armour!
now who hath done this thing?”
“ ’Twas Else, who set on us
last night,” he told the king.
1626
“His ferryman the cause was
that we were set upon;
My brother came, and Gelfrat
was by his hand fordone;
Then Else fled before us,
by direst need bested.
Four men we lost; a hundred
of them we left for dead.”
1627
The place at which they rested
I know not to declare;
But all the country people
ere long became aware
That sons of noble Uté
to court were on their way:
And thus a hearty welcome
at Passau soon had they.
1628
The Bishop Pilgrin, uncle
of these high rulers three,
Was in his heart well-pleasèd
his sister’s sons to see,
With such a host of warriors,
thus come to his domain.
That he meant well unto them,
was very quickly plain.
1629
Right gladly were they welcomed
by friends upon the way;
But since there was at Passau
no room for them to stay,
They needs must cross the water,
where open field they found;
There tents and wooden cabins
they set up on the ground.
1630
There must they stay and rest them
for space of one whole day
And eke the night that follow’d.
How fairly served were they!
To Rüdeger’s dominions
thence had they to ride on.
To him the tidings also
were very quickly known.
1631
When now the wayworn riders
had taken needful rest,
And nearer were approaching
the country of their quest,
They found upon the marches
a knight who sleeping lay,
From whom Hagen of Tronjé
a stout sword took away.
1632
Ay, Eckewart the name was
of that same warrior good;
Much grief had he thereover,
and sorry was his mood
That he had lost the weapon
through heroes passing there.
Ill-watch’d found they the borders
of margrave Rüdeger.
1633
“Woe’s me for this dishonour,”
thereon said Eckewart,
“This journey of Burgundians
I rue with all my heart.
Since ever I lost Siegfried,
my luck hath all been gone.
Alack, the day, Lord Rüdeger,
what ill to thee I’ve done!”
1634
Now Hagen heard right plainly
the noble warrior’s woe.
His sword again he gave him
and six red armlets, too.
“Take these as pledge, O hero,
that thou my friend wilt be;
Good knight thou art, though lonely
thou sleptst upon the lea.”
1635
“God for thy rings requite thee,”
said Eckewart thereto;
“Thy journey into Hunsland
yet sorely do I rue.
Thou took’st the life of Siegfried;
here art thou held in hate.
To guard thyself be careful:
in good faith rede I that.”
1636
“Now God alone must keep us!”
Hagen for answer gave.
“In truth no greater trouble
these warriors now have
Than that, for kings and liegemen,
on lodgings we may light,
Where we in this same country
may lay our heads to-night.
1637
“The horses have been ruin’d
by roads so far about;”
Thus spake the warrior Hagen,
“our stores are all run out;
None can be had for money;
a worthy host we need,
Who ere this day is ended
will kindly give us bread.”
1638
Spake Eckewart in answer:
“A host to you I’ll show:
And such a one ne’er bade you
into his house to go,
In any land whatever,
as ye may meet with here
If ye, good thanes are willing
to visit Rüdeger.
1639
“He dwells hard by the highway:
of hosts he is the best
That ever had a rooftree.
His heart is aye possest
Of kindness, as of flowers
are meadows in sweet May;
If he can succour heroes,
glad will he be the day.”
1640
“Wilt thou then,” said King Gunther,
“be now my messenger,
And see if for my pleasure,
my kind friend Rüdeger
Shelter unto my kinsfolk
and all our men will give?
So will I do my utmost
to serve him while I live.”
1641
“I’ll gladly be the envoy,”
then answer’d Eckewart.
With right good will so did he
upon the errand start.
To Rüdeger declared he
what he was bade to say,
Who no such joyful tidings
had heard for many a day.
1642
Folk saw to Bechelaren
a knight ride hastily.
Him Rüdeger himself saw:
“On yonder road,” said he,
“Comes Eckewart fast riding,
of Kriemhild’s lieges one.”
He fancied that the foemen
some harm to him had done.
1643
Then went he to the gateway
where he the envoy found
Who laid aside his weapon
from off his belt unbound.
The message that he carried
he sought not to withhold
From host and friends about him;
but straight his story told.
1644
Unto the margrave spake he:
“I come at the command
Of Gunther, king and ruler
of the Burgundian land,
And Giselher his brother,
and likewise Gernot, too;
Each of these warriors sendeth
his greeting unto you.
1645
“The like doth also Hagen,
as Volker doth as well,
With true and ready service.
And more I have to tell:
That—as the royal marshal
sends word to you by me—
The good men much are needing
your hospitality.”
1646
With smiling lips unto him
made Rüdeger reply:
“Glad am I at your tidings,
that kings so great and high
Deign to bespeak my service:
they shall not be denied.
If they will cross my threshold
’twill give me joy and pride.”
1647
“Dankwart the marshal likewise
begs you by me to tell
If you can furnish house-room
for all the rest as well:
For sixty valiant warriors,
a thousand knights right good,
And men-at-arms nine thousand?”
Then joyful was his mood.
1648
“Now be these guests right welcome,”
made answer Rüdeger,
“And all these noble warriors,
unto my dwelling here;
To them, as yet, at no time
have I a service done.
So ride to meet them, kinsmen
and lieges everyone.”
1649
Then quickly to their horses
hurried each squire and knight.
Whate’er their master bade them
to all of them seem’d right;
And they in service hasted
the readier for that.
Naught wist yet dame Gotlinda,
who in her chamber sat.
Adventure XXVII
How They Came to Bechelaren
1650
Away then went the margrave
to where the ladies were,
His wife and eke their daughter;—
to them the tidings fair
That had but now been brought him
he told right speedily:
That soon their lady’s brothers
beneath their roof would be.
1651
“My own and well-lov’d sweetheart,”
so Rüdeger then spake,
“These noble kings and mighty
we must right welcome make,
Since they and all their followers
are on their way to court.
And Hagen, Gunther’s liegeman,
thou must greet in good sort.
1652
“With him there comes another,
by name one Dankwart hight;
And yet a third call’d Volker,
a well-bred, courtly knight.
These six must thou, Gotlinda,
and thou, my daughter, kiss,
And let not any warrior
a fitting welcome miss.
1653
This promised both the ladies
and did themselves prepare,
And sought from out their coffers
for raiment rich to wear,
That they to meet the warriors
in fit attire might go.
Amidst the comely damsels
there was a great to-do.
1654
Of painted women’s faces
one found there few enough.
They wore upon their foreheads
bright bands of golden stuff,
Like costly chaplets fashion’d,
that thus their lovely hair
The wind should not dishevel:
’tis truth that I declare.
1655
Now let us leave the ladies
in all this business.
Across the open country
all eager was the press
Of Rüdeger’s retainers
to where the princes stay’d;
Within the margrave’s county
right welcome were they made.
1656
As soon as towards him coming
the margrave them espied,
How Rüdeger the valiant
in words of gladness cried:
“Be ye, my lords, right welcome,
and likewise all your men;
How glad am I to see you
here in my own domain!”
1657
In trust, with no misliking,
the warriors to him bow’d;
That he all goodwill bore them
to all he plainly show’d.
Apart he greeted Hagen,
a friend of old was he;
And did the like to Volker,
the knight of Burgundy.
1658
Dankwart he also greeted;
whereon that bold thane spake:
“Since thou wilt give us shelter,
pray, who shall undertake
To cater for our people
whom we have brought so far?”
Then answer’d him the margrave:
“This night be free from care.
1659
“And as to all your people,
and aught that in your band,
Horses be it, or raiment,
hath come unto this land,
So safely will I guard them
and all from loss insure,
That ye shall have no damage,
nay, not by a single spur.
1660
“So pitch your tents, ye yeomen,
upon the open ground,
For any loss ye suffer
I’m willing to be bound.
Take off the horses’ bridles
and let them freely run.”
The like to them but seldom
a host ere then had done.
1661
Right glad of heart the guests were.
When all had come to pass,
The lords rode off together.
Then down upon the grass
On all sides lay the yeomen,
and right good rest they had;
I ween in all the journey
they ne’er so softly laid.
1662
The noble margrave’s lady
without the castle gate
Had gone with her fair daughter.
One saw there with her wait
A crowd of lovely women,
and many a maiden fair.
Who wore a store of armlets,
and raiment rich and rare.
1663
The precious gems glowed brightly,
and might be seen afar
Upon their rich apparel;
so finely clad they were.
And now the guests arriving
dismounted speedily.
Ay me! what gallant breeding
showed they of Burgundy!
1664
Of maidens six-and-thirty
and many another dame,
As ever eye could wish for
so fair in form they came,
And went towards the strangers
with many a gallant man.
Ah, then in sooth fair greetings
of noble dames began!
1665
Then kiss’d the margrave’s daughter
the three kings fittingly,
As also did her mother;
Hagen was standing by,
Her father bade her kiss him;
she cast a look at him,
And fain had she not done it—
she thought he look’d so grim.
1666
Yet straightway must she do it,
since so the master said;
Her cheeks were changed in colour
to mingled white and red.
Then Dankwart likewise kiss’d she,
and then the Minstrel too;
By reason of his valour
such greeting was his due.
1667
The margrave’s youthful daughter
took presently the hand
Of Giselher, the warrior
from the Burgundian land:
Her mother, too, did likewise
to Gunther, the brave king.
So went they with the heroes
in gladness revelling.
1668
The host along with Gernot
went into a wide hall,
Where they were quickly seated,
both knights and ladies all:
Good wine was call’d for straightway,
which to the guests they gave.
Ay, surely never heroes
could better treatment have.
1669
With many an eager eye-glance
the men look’d lovingly
On Rüdeger’s young daughter:
she was so fair to see.
Ay, in his thoughts embraced her
full many a warrior good,
And right well she deserved it;
but she was proud of mood:
1670
Think might they as it pleased them,
such thing could not be done.
And to and fro men’s glances
meanwhile oft lit upon
Right many a dame and maiden;
plenty were seated there.
Goodwill the noble minstrel
unto the host did bear.
1671
According to the custom
they sever’d then in two,
The warriors and the ladies
to separate rooms withdrew.
In the wide hall the tables
in order straight were set,
And soon the stranger guest-folk
with royal service met.
1672
To do her guests more honour
the noble margravine
Sat down with them at table;
her daughter was unseen,
Left with the younger children,
where fittingly she sat;
The guests, who miss’d her presence,
were sorely vext thereat.
1673
When meat and drink abundant
had been enjoy’d by all
The ladies fair were usher’d
again into the hall.
There lack’d not mirthful story,
nor jesting manifold:
Busy of tongue was Volker,
a knight of mood right bold.
1674
Thus spake the noble minstrel,
aloud that all might heed:
“Most rich and noble margrave,
God hath with you indeed
Dealt graciously, in granting
so fair a dame for wife,
And likewise in bestowing
on you a joyous life.
1675
“If haply,” said the minstrel,
“I were a prince of blood,
And wore the crown of kingship,
surely for wife I would
Make choice of your fair daughter,
for her my heart doth woo:
Lovesome she is to look on
and good and noble too.”
1676
Then said to him the margrave:
“How could it ever be,
That any king should ask for
my daughter dear of me?
We are but stranger-people,
my wife as well as I:
What boots it that the damsel
so fair is bodily?”
1677
To him made answer Gernot,
that man of breeding high:
“If I would have a sweetheart,
my heart to satisfy,
So would I such a woman
be ever glad to wed.”
Then Hagen put his word in,
with kindly speech, and said:
1678
“ ’Tis still to be remember’d
Lord Giselher should wed:
Of ancestry so noble
the margravine is bred,
That I and all his liegemen
would serve her willingly,
If with a crown upon her
she came to Burgundy.”
1679
To Rüdeger this counsel
in every way seem’d good,
As likewise to Gotlinda:
ay, both were glad of mood.
And soon the chiefs so order’d
that she was bride beloved
Of Giselher the noble,
as well a king behoved.
1680
When aught is bound to happen
who may the same gainsay?
Forthwith they bade the damsel
to court to take her way.
They took an oath to give him
the winsome maid to wife,
And he, on his side, promised
to love her as his life.
1681
They gave the maiden warrant
for castles and for land,
The noble king confirm’d it
by oath and his right hand,
As likewise did Lord Gernot,
that thus it should be done.
Then spake to them the margrave:
“Though castles I have none,
1682
“Yet you will I at all times
in faithful friendship hold:
I give unto my daughter
of silver and of gold
As much as five score horses
may carry at their best,
That so well-pleased, in honour,
the hero’s kin may rest.”
1683
The pair were thereon bidden
within a ring to stand,
According to the custom.
Of many youths a band,
In mood for merry-making,
stood opposite the twain,
And thought what they were minded,
as youngsters still are fain.
1684
When they began to question,
and ask’d the winsome maid
If she would have the warrior,
she was a whit dismay’d:
And yet she still was minded
to take the goodly wight;
She blush’d but at the question,
as any maiden might.
1685
Then Rüdeger her father
bade her to answer “Yea!”
That she would gladly take him.
Whereon, without delay,
His white hands stretch’d towards her
to fold her lovingly,
Young Giselher came forward—
short though their joy must be!
1686
“Ye noble kings and mighty,”
thereon the margrave spake;
“When home again your journey
to Burgundy ye take,
Then I (as is the custom)
will give my child to you,
That ye may take her with you.”
That they engaged to do.
1687
Noisy as were the revels,
at last they had an end.
The damsels to their chambers
were bidden then to wend;
In sleep the guests, too, rested
till daybreak did appear;
Then victuals were made ready;
for all the host took care.
1688
When they their fast had broken
fain would they forward go
Towards the Hunnish country.
“I pray you, do not so,”
Besought their host right noble;
“awhile ye yet must stay;
Since I no guests so welcome
have seen for many a day.”
1689
To this made Dankwart answer:
“That surely will not do.
Whence will you get the victuals,
the bread and wine thereto,
Which for so many warriors
you needs must have this day?”
The host, on hearing, answer’d:
“It boots no more to say;
1690
“My well-Iov’d lords, so please ye,
I will not be denied;
Ay, for a fortnight will I
the meat and drink provide
For you and all the people
that hither you have brought;
For never hath King Etzel
from me yet taken aught.”
1691
Howe’er they sought to help it,
needs must they there abide
Until the fourth day’s dawning:
then did a thing betide,
Done of the master’s bounty,
and noisèd far and near:
On every guest bestow’d he
a horse and wearing gear.
1692
This could not last much longer:
thence must they forward fare.
But Rüdeger the valiant
could naught withhold or spare
To testify his bounty:
what any fain would take,
That was denied to no one;
all happy would he make.
1693
Then forth before the gateway
their noble equerries
Led out the saddled horses.
In readiness for these
The throng of foreign warriors
came out; their shields in hand
They bore, for they were eager
to ride to Etzel’s land.
1694
Thereon the master offer’d
his gifts to one and all,
Ere yet the royal strangers
were come without the hall.
With bounty and great honour
he knew the way to live;
And even his fair daughter
to Giselher would give.
1695
Anon he gave to Gunther,
that hero of great fame,
What he, the mighty monarch,
might well wear without shame—
Though gifts he took but seldom—
a coat of mail, to wit.
O’er Rüdeger’s hand did Gunther
bow low in thanks for it.
1696
Then gave he unto Gernot
a sword, a good one too,
Which afterwards in battle
right gallantly he drew:
That such a gift he gave him
well pleased the margrave’s wife.
’Twas doom’d to cost, soon after,
good Rüdeger his life.
1697
Gotlinda offer’d Hagen,
as courteous custom bade,
Some tokens of her kindness,
since such the king had had,
Lest he without her aidance
should on his road be sped
Unto the royal revels;
but this he soon gainsaid.
1698
“Of all the things that ever
I saw,” so Hagen spake,
“Not one have I more envy
hence as my own to take,
Than yonder shield that hanging
upon the wall I see:
That would I gladly carry
to Etzel’s land with me.”
1699
The margravine no sooner
had heard what Hagen said,
Than bygone woes were waken’d,
and tears she needs must shed.
Upon the death of Nudung
she sorrowfully thought,
How Witege had slain him:
thus grief upon her wrought.
1700
She spake unto the warrior:
“I’ll give the shield to thee,
But would to God in Heaven
that still ahve were he
Who on his arm once bare it!
In fight he was laid low,
And I must aye bewail him:
hence comes, poor me, my woe!”
1701
Then from her seat uprose she,
the noble margravine;
And so, the buckler grasping
her snow-white hands between,
The dame to Hagen bore it,
and he thereof took hold:
It was a gift of honour
unto that warrior bold.
1702
A case of polish’d leather
upon its surface lay,
A better shield and brighter
ne’er shone in light of day,
With noble gems bestudded;
had any wanted it
To buy, perchance its value
a thousand marks had quit.
1703
Then, by command of Hagen,
they bore the shield away.
And now to court did Dankwart
begin to wend his way.
On him the margrave’s daughter
apparel rich bestow’d,
In which ere long in Hunsland
right gloriously he rode.
1704
Now all these friendly tokens
they were endow’d withal,
Into the hands of any
had never come at all,
Save by the master’s bounty,
offer’d with such good will.
Such foes ere long became they
that him they needs must kill!
1705
Then did the ready Volker,
his fiddle in his hand,
With courtly mien approaching
before Gotlinda stand.
Sweet tunes for her he fiddled,
and sang his roundelay,
Thus would he from Bechlaren
take leave to ride away.
1706
The margravine then bade men
to her a chest to bear;
Of kindly gifts and bounty
ye now again must hear.
Therefrom she took twelve armlets
and put them o’er his hand:
“These must you carry with you
away to Etzel’s land.
1707
“And for my sake must wear them
whene’er you go to court;
That when you come back hither
I may have good report
How you have done me service
at that great festival.”
E’en as the lady bade him
he well accomplish’d all.
1708
The host said to the strangers:
“Ye will the better fare
If I myself shall lead you,
and bid you how beware
Lest anyone should do you
a hurt upon the road.”
Then of his sumpter-horses
each quickly had its load.
1709
There stood the host all ready,
and eke five hundred men
With horses and apparel.
These led he with him then
Unto the royal wedding—
a joyous merry train;
Alive to Bechelaren
not one came back again!
1710
With many loving kisses
the host his farewells said,
As Giselher did also,
by honour ever led.
The women fair they fondled
with arms around them thrown;
For which would many a damsel
be weeping soon, alone.
1711
On all sides were the windows
thrown open to the air.
The host with his retainers
to mount all eager were.
I ween their hearts foreboded
the mighty ills to be;
For many dames were weeping
and maidens fair to see.
1712
For dear friends left behind them,
plenty at heart were sore,
Whom they at Bechelaren
would look on nevermore;
Yet gaily rode they onwards,
and down across the sand
Along the Danube river,
unto the Hunnish land.
1713
Then Rüdeger the noble,
well versed in chivalry,
Spake unto the Burgundians:
“We ought not, verily,
To hide that we are coming
unto the Hunfolk near;
Such good news hath King Etzel
ne’er had the chance to hear.”
1714
Down through the Austrian kingdom
the messenger rode fast;
Soon to the folk on all sides
from mouth to mouth it pass’d,
That coming were the heroes
from Worms beyond the Rhine.
No tidings the king’s lieges
could more to joy incline.
1715
The messengers sped forwards
and now the tidings bare
Of how the Niblung warriors
within the Huns’ land were.
“Thou shouldst right well receive them,
Kriemhilda, lady mine;
To thee come in great honour
these brothers dear of thine.”
1716
Meanwhile, as dame Kriemhilda
beside a window-sill
Stood watching for her kinsmen—
as friends for others will,
Lo, from her father’s country
there saw she many a man.
The king, who heard the tidings,
to laugh for glee began.
1717
“Now joy of all who love me
be mine!” Kriemhilda said,
“For hither come my kinsmen
with many a shield new-made,
And many a bright steel hauberk.
Who would have gold of me,
Let him my wrongs remember,
my friend he e’er shall be!”
Adventure XXVIII
How the Burgundians Came to Etzel’s Stronghold
1718
As soon as the Burgundians
were come to Hunnish land,
Of Bern2 a chieftain heard it—
the aged Hildebrand.
Unto his lord he told it;
to him ’twas all unmeet;
Yet bade he them with kindness
the valiant knights to greet.
1719
The ready Wolfhart bade them
to bring the horses out.
Then rode along with Dietrich
full many a warrior stout,
As towards the open country
to welcome them he went.
There had they pitch’d already
full many a noble tent.
1720
When Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
them from afar espied,
Unto his masters turning,
in courteous words he cried:
“Now, please ye, gallant warriors,
dismount on to your feet,
And them whom you would welcome
go forth yourselves to meet.
1721
“The company that cometh
is right well known to me:
They are the doughty warriors
from Amelung country,
And he of Bern doth lead them;
they are of courage high.
’Twere better not to flout them
when folk to serve ye try.”
1722
Then down from horse alighted
(as was indeed but right)
All they who came with Dietrich,
full many a squire and knight.
They walk’d towards the strangers,
where they the chiefs could see,
And courteously greeted
the men of Burgundy.
1723
When noble Dietrich saw them
their way towards him make,
Perchance ye fain would hearken
to what the warrior spake
Unto the sons of Uté.
Their journey grieved him sore:
The truth, he thought, Sir Rüdeger
had known and told before.
1724
“Be welcome, sirs, right welcome,
Gunther and Giselher,
And Gernot, too, and Hagen;
and, not the less, Volker
And swift and ready Dankwart!
Have ye not understood
That o’er her Niblung hero
Kriemhilda yet doth brood?”
1725
“Then let her brood for ever!”
Hagen in answer said,
“For many a long year is it
since he was stricken dead.
To love the King of Hunsland
is now her duty plain:
Siegfried hath long been buried;
he comes not back again.”
1726
“Now let us, an’ it please you,
leave Siegfried’s wounds alone;
Whilst Dame Kriemhilda liveth
evil may still be done.”
So did the noble Dietrich,
the knight of Bern, declare.
“Thou Mainstay of the Niblungs,
to guard thyself beware!”
1727
“And wherefore should I guard me?”
the high-born king replied;
“Tidings we had from Etzel
(what should I ask beside?)
That, came we hither riding,
’twould give him much content
My sister Kriemhild, likewise,
hath many a message sent.”
1728
“If I may give you counsel,”
so Hagen to them spake,
“Beg that the noble Dietrich
and his good warriors make
Some better declaration
of what they have in mind,
And tell us to what humour
Dame Kriemhild is inclined.”
1729
Then the three mighty chieftains
to speak apart withdrew,
Gunther to wit, and Gernot,
and the lord Dietrich, too:
“Now, knight of Bern, pray tell us,
thou noble warrior good,
What of the queen thou knowest,
and what may be her mood.
1730
The knight of Bern made answer:
“What can I tell you more?
I hear her ev’ry morning
weeping and wailing sore—
This wedded wife of Etzel—
in manner piteous,
To the great God of Heaven,
for stalwart Siegfried’s loss.”
1731
“It may not be averted,”—
that boldest man declared,
Volker, the fiddle-player—
“the doom whereof we’ve heard;
To court we’re bound to journey,
there for ourselves to see
What fate for us good warriors
among the Huns shall be.”
1732
So hence the bold Burgundians
to court rode on their way
After their country’s fashion,
in glorious array.
And many a bold man marvell’d
among the Hunfolk there
At Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
what kind of man he were.
1733
For since was told the story,
(that was enough alone,)
How he the Netherlander
Siegfried to death had done—
The stoutest of all warriors,
the husband of Kriemhild—
With questions about Hagen
the court was well-nigh fill’d.
1734
Of goodly growth and presence
the hero was, no doubt;
Broad-shouldered and deep-chested;
his hair was fleck’d about
With streaks of grisly colour;
long in the shank was he,
And stony was his visage;
he walk’d right royally.
1735
Then quarters were appointed
for the Burgundian men.
The whole of Gunther’s followers
were sunder’d from him then.
This by the queen was compass’d,
with hatred for him fill’d;
Hence all the yeomen, later,
were in their hostel kill’d.
1736
Since Dankwart, Hagen’s brother,
the marshal had been made,
The king with zeal commended
the men to him; and bade
That he would seek their comfort
and let them have their fill.
This chief of the Burgundians
bore all of them goodwill.
1737
And now came Queen Kriemhilda
with all her company
That she might greet the Niblungs
with feignèd courtesy.
But Giselher, her brother,
she kiss’d and took his hand.
This Hagen saw, and tighter
he laced his helmet’s band.
1738
“In view of such a greeting,”
thus Hagen blurted out,
“A prompt and ready warrior
may well have some misdoubt!
To kings and to their vassals
greetings unlike befall:
We’ve made no lucky journey
to this high festival.”
1739
“To those who fain would see thee,”
said she, “now welcome be:
Thou shalt not have a greeting
for friendship’s sake from me.
Say what it is thou bringest
from Worms beyond the Rhine,
That thou so great a welcome
shouldst have from me and mine.”
1740
“If I had heard the tidings,”
so Hagen spake again,
“That you for gifts were looking
at hands of every thane,
Had I myself been wealthy
I would have twice bethought
Or ever to this country
my gifts for you I brought.”
1741
“ ’Tis rather you, who tidings
to me should give: to wit,
The Nibelungen treasure,
what have ye done with it?
It was mine own possession,
and that right well you knew:
’Twas this ye should have brought me
to Etzel’s land with you.”
1742
“I’ faith, my Lady Kriemhild,
’tis now full many a day
Since when at my disposal
the Niblung treasure lay;
At bidding of my masters
’twas sunk in the Rhine-tide:
There till the Day of Judgment,
in sooth, it may abide.”
1743
Then spake the queen in answer:
“ ’Tis even as I thought!
Right little of it have you
for me to this land brought,
Although ’twas mine, and whilom
within my power it lay;
Since when I’ve spent thereover
full many a dreary day.”
1744
“The devil a bit I bring you!”
Sir Hagen fell to swear:
“I have my shield to carry,
and that’s enough to bear,
Together with my mail-coat;
my helm’s a trifling thing,
My sword I have in hand though,
so naught for you I bring.”
1745
Thereon the queen spake loudly
unto those warriors all:
“Let no man any weapon
carry into the hall;
Give them to me, ye heroes,
I’ll keep them safe for you!”
“Nay, by my troth,” cried Hagen,
“that will we never do!
1746
“I covet not the honour,
gentle princess and fair,
That thou unto the hostel
my shield thyself shouldst bear.
Nor other of my weapons:
thou hast a queen become;
So taught me not my father;
I will be chambergroom.”
1747
“O woe on all my sorrow!”
Kriemhilda loudly said,
“How is it that my brother
and Hagen are afraid
To leave their shields in keeping?
They have been warn’d, I see;
And knew I who had done it,
I’d give him death for fee.”
1748
Thereon Lord Dietrich answer’d,
and said to her in scorn:
“ ’Twas I that took upon me
these noble kings to warn;
And Hagen warn’d I likewise,
the brave Burgundian.
Come on, thou devil’s daughter,
do me the worst you can!”
1749
Ashamed and sore confounded
at this was Etzel’s wife:
For bitterly with Dietrich
she feared to be at strife.
She found no word to answer,
but went away in haste,
Whilst but a few sharp glances
upon her foes she cast.
1750
Then hand by hand two warriors
took each of other hold:
The one was noble Dietrich,
the other Hagen bold.
Then spake in courtly manner
that knight of spirit high:
“Your coming to the Hunfolk
doth grieve me, verily,
1751
“Seeing the queen hath spoken
such words to you but now.”
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“ ’Twill matter not, I trow.”
In such wise with each other,
parley’d the two brave men.
Meanwhile King Etzel saw them,
and fell to questioning then.
1752
“I would that some one told me,”
the mighty sovereign said,
“Who is that warrior yonder,
to whom Sir Dietrich bade
So heartily a welcome?
Of courage high is he;
Whoever were his father,
a hero must he be!”
1753
Then one of Kriemhild’s liegemen
to answer him began:
“He is by birth of Tronjé,
his sire was Aldrian.
How blithe so e’er he bears him,
he hath a spirit grim.
You shall yourself discover
I tell no lies of him.”
1754
“How shall I have occasion
to know he is so stern?”
(The many sly devices
as yet he had to learn,
Wherewith, to catch her kinsmen,
the queen sought to contrive
That none of them from Hunsland
again might come alive.)
1755
“Well knew I that same Aldrian,
a liegeman of mine own,
And here with me he won him
much honour and renown.
’Twas I a knight who dubb’d him,
and gave him of my gold;
My faithful Helka bore him
much kindness, too, of old.
1756
“And all, by that same token,
of Hagen know I well.
Into my hands for hostage
two goodly children fell,
He and the Spanish Walther;
who being to manhood bred,
I sent back Hagen; Walther
with Hildegunda fled.”
1757
He thought of the old stories
and all that happ’d of yore,
His olden friend of Tronjé
he gladly saw once more,
Who in his youth good service
to him ne’er fail’d to lend.
Soon he in age repaid him
by death of many a friend.
Adventure XXIX
How He Stood Not Up Before Her
1758
This famous pair of warriors
asunder then withdrew,
Hagen, the lord of Tronjé,
and noble Dietrich, too.
Whereon across his shoulder
look’d Gunther’s man around
In hope to see a comrade,
whom in a trice he found;
1759
For there Sir Volker standing
by Giselher he saw;
He begg’d that cunning minstrel
aside with him to draw,
For well was he acquainted
with his unyielding mood.
In sooth, he was in all points
a warrior bold and good.
1760
They left the lords together
standing in the courtyard.
’Twas seen how they twain only,
and not another, fared
Across the court wide-stretching
before a palace great;
Those chosen men of valour
had fear of no man’s hate.
1761
They sat upon a settle
against the palace front,
Hard by a hall which Kriemhild
herself to use was wont.
Brightly upon their bodies
their noble raiment shone,
And plenty who beheld them
would gladly them have known.
1762
Like wild beasts of the forest
those haughty heroes then
Were gaped upon and gazed at
by all the Hunnish men.
The wife of Etzel spied them
athwart a window-pane:
Whereby the fair Kriemhilda
was sorely grieved again.
1763
It brought to mind her sorrow;
she fell to weeping then,
Whereat was mickle marvel
among King Etzel’s men:
What could have thus so quickly
troubled their lady’s mood?
She answer’d: “That hath Hagen,
ye heroes bold and good.”
1764
They spake unto the lady:
“How can this thing have been
When we ourselves but lately
have you so happy seen?
None can have been so hardy
such evil to have wrought:
Else bid us to avenge it;
his life shall go for naught.”
1765
“For ever would I serve him
who would my wrongs repay,
To give him all he ask’d for
I would be ready aye.
Upon my knees I beg you,”
so spake the royal wife,
“Avenge me now on Hagen,
that he may lose his life.”
1766
Then sixty gallant warriors
girded their armour on,
Who, for the love of Kriemhild,
were keen to set upon
And make an end of Hagen—
the ever valiant one—
And likewise of the minstrel.
’Twas all with forethought done.
1767
But when the queen beheld them,
how small a band they made,
In grim and gloomy humour
she to the heroes said:
“Ye must leave unaccomplish’d
what ye would take in hand:
Ay, never against Hagen
so few will dare to stand!
1768
“How strong and bold soever
Hagen of Tronjé be,
The man who sits beside him
is stronger far than he,
Volker, the fiddler, namely;
he is an evil wight.
These heroes to encounter
ye will not find so light.”
1769
When they had heard this warning
still more took heart of grace—
Four hundred gallant warriors.
That queen of noble race
Had set her heart upon it
to do her foes despite:
Whence soon was mickle sorrow
made ready for each knight.
1770
Now when she saw her liegemen
with arms and armour clad,
Unto the ready warriors
the noble lady bade:
“Abide ye here a little,
ay, stand ye quiet so;
I mean to put my crown on,
and to my foemen go.
1771
“And hark while I upbraid him
for what he did to me,
This Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
King Gunther’s knight in fee.
So arrogant I know him,
he’ll give me not the lie;
And eke care I as little
what he shall get thereby.”
1772
Then look’d the fiddle-player,
the minstrel bold, and lo,
He saw the noble lady
along a stairway go,
That led down from the palace.
And when he that espied,
The ever valiant Volker
unto his comrade cried:
1773
“Now look ye there, friend Hagen,
how yonder cometh nigh
She who into this country
hath lured us faithlessly.
With king’s wife saw I never
so many men around,
Bearing in hand their weapons,
as for a battle bound.
1774
“Know’st thou, friend Hagen, whether
they hatred to thee bear?
If so, I fain would counsel
that thou the better care
Shouldst take of life and honour:
ay, that, methinks, were good!
Unless I am mistaken,
they are in wrathful mood.
1775
“And some there are among them
so exceeding broad of breast
That who would rest in surety
hath little time to waste.
I ween, beneath their clothing,
their hauberks bright they wear;
But whom therewith they threaten
I nowise can declare.”
1776
Then spake in mood of anger
Hagen, the valiant one:
“For me, right well I know it,
the whole of this is done—
That thus their unsheath’d weapons
they carry in the hand;
Yet will I, notwithstanding,
ride to Burgundian land!
1777
“Now say if thou, friend Volker,
thine aid to me wilt lend,
If so be Kriemhild’s liegemen
to fight with me intend?
That let me hear you promise,
as I am dear to you;
And evermore I’ll answer
to you with service true.”
1778
“Ay, surely will I help thee,”
the gallant minstrel spake:
“Saw I a king come hither,
attack on us to make
With all his warriors round him,
so long as I should live
I would not fail to help thee,
and not a foot would give.”
1779
“Thy service, noble Volker,
may God in Heaven requite.
What further can I ask for,
if thou by me wilt fight?
Since thou art fain to aid me,
as I am glad to hear,
These blades may come and welcome
with all their warlike gear.”
1780
“Now from the seat upstand we,”
then said the man of song:
“She is a sovereign lady;
and let her pass along.
Let us that honour pay her,
she is of noble birth,
Thereby our own condition
shall seem of greater worth.”
1781
“For love of me, I pray thee,
do it not,” Hagen spake:
“Lest otherwise these warriors
perchance the deed mistake
And think that I had risen,
through fear, upon my feet.
For such as her and her kind
I’ll never leave my seat!
1782
“For both of us ’twere better,
methinks, to let it be.
Why should I do her honour
who bears such hate to me?
Nay, that will I do never
as long as I have life;
Nor care I for the hatred
of royal Etzel’s wife!”
1783
The overweening Hagen
across his knees laid down
A bare and shining weapon,
upon whose pommel shone
A very brilliant jasper,
greener than any sward.
Kriemhilda well remember’d
that it was Siegfried’s sword.
1784
When she that sword remember’d
a grief it needs must be;
The hilt of it was golden,
its sheath red broidery.
It brought to mind her sorrow;
her tears began to fall;
I ween the hardy Hagen
had therefor done it all.
1785
Upon the bench towards him
the valiant Volker drew
A fiddle-bow, a strong one,
and long and mighty, too,
Which to a sword had likeness,
right keen and broad of blade
The pair of doughty heroes
thus sat there undismay’d.
1786
The valiant twain so lordly
seem’d, in their own conceit,
They did not deem it fitting
to stand up from their seat
For fear of man or woman.
Whereon, with foe-like mien,
Nigh to their feet, to greet them,
came up the noble queen.
1787
She spake: “Now tell me, Hagen,
who sent to bid you here,
That riding in our country
thou darest to appear?
Thou, too, who so well knowest
what thou hast done to me?
Hadst thou been well advisèd
thou best hadst let it be.”
1788
“No one hath sent to fetch me,”
Hagen in answer said:
“But hither to this country
three warriors you bade;
My masters they are callèd,
to them I service owe.
On any royal journey
I scarce could fail to go.”
1789
Said she: “Now tell me further,
how was it thou didst that
For which thou hast deservèd
my everlasting hate?
Thou was it who didst Siegfried,
my well-loved husband, slay;
Whom I must mourn for ever
until my dying day.”
1790
He spake: “What boots that further?
Of talk we have no need.
I am that self-same Hagen
who did to death Siegfried,
The mighty-handed hero.
How dearly he repaid
The flouts which Dame Kriemhilda
on fair Brunhilda laid!
1791
“It is not to be doubted,
O great and mighty queen,
Of all your baleful sorrows
that I have guilty been.
Now be it man or woman,
let them avenge who will;
Though I should then gainsay you,
I’ve done you grievous ill.”
1792
Said she: “Now hark ye, warriors,
he doth not e’en deny
That he hath work’d my sorrow!
What may befall thereby
To him, ye men of Etzel,
of no account I hold.”
Then look’d on one another
those haughty thanes and bold.
1793
It doubtless had befallen,
whichever had begun
The strife, that these two comrades
the honour would have won;
Seeing how oft in battle
they gallantly had fought.
In dread the others shrank from
the deed they had in thought.
1794
Then spake one of the warriors:
“Why look ye so on me?
From what I erewhile promised
I would that I were free!
For sake of no one’s largesse
would I forego my life.
Ay! to our ruin go we,
led by King Etzel’s wife.”
1795
Whereafter spake another:
“To that same thought I hold;
Were anyone to give me
whole towers of good red gold,
I’d care not to contend with
that fiddler willingly,
For dread of the swift glances
that in his eyes I see.
1796
“Hagen have I known also,
and from his early youth:
Thus little can be told me
about that knight, forsooth!
In two-and-twenty battles
I’ve seen him, in the strife;
Whereby hath heartfelt sorrow
befallen many a wife.
1797
“On many a foray went they,
he and the Spaniard,
When they were here with Etzel;
ofttimes a battle hard
They fought for the king’s honour;
and many such befell;
Whereof one must of Hagen
much to his honour tell.
1798
“At that time this same warrior
was but a child in years.
They who were then but youngsters,
how gray are now their hairs!
Now he is come to wisdom,
a man of ruth is he.
And eke he wieldeth Balmung,
won by foul treachery.”
1799
With that the thing was settled—
that none should strike a blow.
Whereby the queen was stricken
unto the heart with woe.
The heroes all disbanded:
fearful lest death indeed
Be dealt them by the fiddler:
in sooth they had good need.
1800
Then spake anon the fiddler:
“We have right plainly seen
That foemen here beset us,
as we forewarn’d have been.
Now to the court return we
and seek the sovrans there:
That no one, then, our masters
to meet in strife may dare.
1801
“How oft a man, faint-hearted,
will let a chance slip by,
When if a friend beside him
upheld him cheerfully
And with good understanding,
he would not do the same.
Right many a man by forethought
is saved from loss and shame.”
1802
“Where you go I will follow,”
Hagen was quick to say;
Then back into the courtyard
forthwith they took their way,
Where still in grand assembly
waited the knightly crowd.
And then the valiant Volker
began to speak aloud
1803
And say unto his masters:
“How long here will ye stay
To let yourselves be crowded?
To court ye should away,
And from the king discover
what he in mind may have.”
Then might one see forgather
the heroes good and brave.
1804
The prince of Bern, Sir Dietrich,
took hold of by the hand
Gunther, the mighty ruler
of the Burgundian land.
Irnfried was fain with Gernot,
that right bold man, to fare,
And Rüdeger went walking
to court with Giselher.
1805
Howe’er the rest companion’d,
and so to court pass’d on,
Betwixt Volker and Hagen
of parting there was none,
Save only in one struggle,
which ended their two lives,
And caus’d sad weeping later
to many noble wives.
1806
Upon the kings attending
one saw to court go then
Their nobly-born retainers,
a thousand gallant men;
And sixty warriors also
along with them had come;
The same that valiant Hagen
had brought with him from home.
1807
And Haward eke and Iring,
a pair of chosen worth,
By one another walking,
went with the sovrans forth.
Dankwart and also Wolfhart,
a thane of courage rare;
These well before the others
upheld their honour there.
1808
When came the lord of Rhineland
within the palace door,
Etzel, the mighty monarch
refrained himself no more,
But from his seat upsprang he,
seeing him entering,
A better greeting never
was given by a king.
1809
“Be welcome, my lord Gunther,
and you, lord Gernot, too,
And Giselher, your brother.
My zealous service true,
I have already sent you
to Worms beyond the Rhine.
And all your followers also
shall welcome be as mine.
1810
“I bid a hearty welcome
to you, ye knightly pair,
To Volker the right valiant
and eke to Hagen there,
From me and from my lady,
unto this land of mine.
She messengers in plenty
hath sent ye to the Rhine.”
1811
Hagen of Tronjé answered:
“So heard I, more than once!
And had I for my masters
not come unto the Huns,
Yet would I you to honour
have ridden to this land.”
The noble host then kindly
his guests took by the hand;
1812
And to the seat he brought them
where he himself had sat,
Then to the guests they offer’d
(they busily did that),
In wide-mouth’d golden goblets,
wine, mead and mulberry,
And bade to the newcomers
a welcome heartily.
1813
Then spake the royal Etzel:
“I will to you confess
Naught in this world could give me
a greater happiness
Than ye have given me, heroes,
in coming thus to me;
Whereby the queen is also
from mickle grief set free.
1814
“And ofttimes have I marvell’d
what was the fault in me—
So many guests right noble
have I been wont to see—
That ye unto my country
to come did never deign?
But now that I have seen you
to joy is turn’d my pain.”
1815
Said Rüdeger in answer
(a knight of noble mood):
“Well may you see them gladly;
their faith indeed is good,
And all my lady’s kinsfolk
the same can well uphold;
They bring unto your palace
full many a warrior bold.”
1816
The even of Midsummer,
at mighty Etzel’s court
These princes made their entry;
and seldom hath report
Told of such royal welcome
as on these chiefs he spent.
Now was it time for eating;
and all to table went.
1817
Amidst his guests more nobly
a host ne’er took his seat.
For them there was abundance
whereof to drink and eat,
And everything they wanted
it was all ready made;
For truly of these heroes
great marvels had been said.
Adventure XXX
How They Kept Watch and Ward
1818
Now was the daylight ended
and night began to close.
Amid the wayworn warriors
disquietude arose
For when they were to rest them
and to their beds begone.
This mooted was by Hagen;
and soon it was made known.
1819
Unto the host spake Gunther:
“God grant you long to live!
We now would hence to slumber;
we pray thee leave to give.
We’ll come to-morrow morning
if thou dost order so.”
Right pleasantly agreed he,
and bade his guests to go.
1820
One saw the people crowding
the guests on every side.
Then Volker the undaunted
unto the Hunfolk cried:
“How dare ye get in front of
the warriors’ very feet?
If ye will not give over
with trouble ye will meet.
1821
“A fiddle-stroke so heavy
on one of you I’ll lay,
That, hath he a well-wisher,
that same may rue the day.
Give place there to us warriors!
’twill be the best for you.
Folk call ye knights, but little
ye have akin thereto.”
1822
Whilst spake the fiddle-player
so wrathfully his mind,
The valiant Hagen turn’d him,
and gave a glance behind.
Said he: “The gallant minstrel
hath warn’d you properly;
Ye heroes of Kriemhilda
back to your homes go ye.
1823
“The plan ye are devising
will not come off, I trow.
Come back to-morrow morning
if ye have aught to do,
And leave us weary strangers
this night to rest in peace;
I ween that heroes ever
so do in suchlike case.”
1824
Anon the guests were taken
into a roomy hall,
Which found they well provided,
to suit the warriors all,
With richly furnish’d bedsteads,
that were both wide and long.
The while Dame Kriemhild plotted
to do them grievous wrong.
1825
Right goodly mats from Arras
all round about were spread,
Of bright-hued wool-stuffs woven;
and many a cover-bed
Wrought of Arabian samite,
the finest that might be;
Whereon were borders broider’d
that shone right gloriously.
1826
The coverlets of ermine
did many a man espy,
And others of black sable,
whereunder they might lie
And pass the night in comfort
until the dawn of day.
A king and all his courtiers
so softly never lay.
1827
“O woe, for this night’s sojourn!”
so spake young Giselher
“And woe for all my comrades
who hither with us fare!
Howbeit that my sister
so kind a bidding gave,
By cause of her, I fear me,
we all our deaths shall have.”
1828
“Now let your mind be easy,”
Hagen the thane answer’d:
“I will from now till morning
myself keep watch and ward;
And well I swear to guard you
until the break of day.
Till then be all untroubled;
then, save himself who may!”
1829
Then bow’d they all before him
and gave him thanks therefore,
And to their beds betook them:
nor was it long before
Laid down in rest and slumber
was every goodly man.
To don his arms the hero—
Hagen the bold—began.
1830
Then up and spake the minstrel,
Volker the gallant thane:
“If thou dost not disdain it,
then, Hagen, I am fain
To-night to keep guard with thee,
until the morning break.”
Right heartily the hero
his thanks to Volker spake:
1831
“Now God in Heaven reward you,
Volker, my comrade true!
To none in all my troubles
save only unto you
Would I for aidance turn me,
if need should e’er befall.
One day I will repay you,
if Death do not forestall.”
1832
Then in their shining raiment
they twain their bodies clad,
And each of them his buckler
upon his forearm had.
They went without the castle
to stand the gateway by,
And there the guests they guarded:
’twas done right faithfully.
1833
Volker the ever-ready
then from his arm unbraced
His shield—it was a good one—
which ’gainst the wall he placed.
Back to the hall he hasten’d,
and there his fiddle seized,
And as became a hero,
his friends therewith he pleased.
1834
Beneath the doorway sat he
upon a seat of stone;
A braver fiddle-player
in sooth had ne’er been known.
With such sweet-sounding music
upon the strings he play’d,
That all the high-born strangers
their thanks to Volker paid.
1835
The sweet clang of his viol
made all the house resound.
His strength and skill together
right excellent were found.
More softly and more sweetly
to fiddle he began,
And lull’d upon their couches
full many a troubled man.
1836
And when they all were sleeping,
and he thereof was sure,
The thane took up his buckler
upon his arm once more,
And went outside the chamber
before the tower to stand,
To guard the sleeping strangers
against Kriemhilda’s band.
1837
When halfway spent the night was,
or earlier it might be,
The gallant Volker, watching,
a shining helm could see
Far off amid the darkness.
’Twas one of Kriemhild’s men,
Who all to do a mischief
unto the guests were fain.
1838
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“My friend, Sir Hagen, there,
Together it is fitting
that we this trouble share.
I’ve seen some folk in armour
before the house but now,
Else I am much mistaken,
they’ll set on us, I trow.”
1839
“Then hold thy peace,” quoth Hagen,
“and let them nearer come.
Or ever they can see us,
our swords will have struck home
And split their helmets for them,
with double-handed might.
We’ll send them back to Kriemhild,
methinks, in sorry plight!”
1840
One of the Hunnish warriors
had soon enough espied
That guarded was the doorway;
how suddenly he cried:
“The matter we intended,
in sooth will not go well.
I see the fiddle-player
standing as sentinel!
1841
“A brightly polish’d helmet
upon his head hath he
Of pure, hard-temper’d metal,
and strong, and blemish-free.
His hauberk’s rings are glowing
as fiery embers would.
By him stands also Hagen:
the guests have watchmen good.”
1842
Forthwith they turn’d them backwards.
When Volker that espied,
Again to his companion
in wrathful voice, he cried:
“Now let me from the palace
after the warriors go;
Of Dame Kriemhilda’s liegemen
somewhat I fain would know.”
1843
“Nay, do it not,” said Hagen;
“I pray you by my love!
These ever-ready warriors,
if from the house you move,
Would with their swords, I doubt not,
bring you such straits to face,
That I should have to help you,
were’t death to all my race.
1844
“For whilst we two together
are busy in the fray,
Some two or four among them
will to the house away,
And quickly force an entrance,
and some foul mischief do
Unto our sleeping comrades,
which we shall ever rue.”
1845
Then Volker spake in answer:
“Let it be settled so;
But that I’ve seen them coming
at least we’ll let them know,
So Kriemhild’s men hereafter
shall never dare deny
That they would fain against us
have wrought vile treachery.”
1846
With that, towards them Volker
sent forth a lusty shout:
“Ye nimble knights, in armour
why go ye thus about?
Ye warriors of Kriemhilda,
if ye on foray ride,
Myself and my companion
ye should have at your side!”
1847
No word there came in answer.
Then wrathful wax’d his mood:
“Fie on ye, skulking rascals!”
shouted the hero good;
“Would ye have caught us sleeping,
and murder’d every one?
So foul a deed on heroes
hath never yet been done.”
1848
Unto the queen right truly
was told how lucklessly
Her messengers had prosper’d.
Good cause for grief had she.
Then otherwise contrived she:
so cruel was her mood;
By which ere long to perish
were heroes bold and good.
Adventure XXXI
How They Went to Church
1849
“So cold I feel my armour:”
quoth Volker presently,
“Methinks the night is wearing
and soon will ended be;
I mark that by the breezes;
’twill very soon be day.”
Then many a man awoke they
who still in slumber lay.
1850
The morning light broke over
the guests within the hall.
Hagen began on all sides
the warriors to call,
To know if to the Minster
to matins they would fare.
Meanwhile, in Christian fashion,
the bells were chiming clear.
1851
So diverse was the chanting,
thereby ’twas plain to see
That Christians and heathens
were not in unity.
And yet the men of Gunther
to church would go withal;
They from their beds together
had risen one and all.
1852
The warriors then array’d them
in clothes so finely wrought,
That better raiment never
by heroes had been brought
To any king’s dominions.
Ill did it Hagen please.
Said he: “Now should ye, heroes,
don other suits than these.
1853
“Enough about the matter
ye surely understand;
Ye should, instead of roses,
bear weapons in the hand.
For caps beset with jewels
take shining helms and good;
Since we are well-advisèd
of wicked Kriemhild’s mood.
1854
“This day must we do battle,
I will to you declare;
Instead of silken doublets,
ye should your hauberks wear,
And in the place of mantles
take bucklers good and wide—
That if they seek a quarrel,
the brunt ye may abide.
1855
“My well-belovèd masters,
your friends and kinsmen too,
Go now unto the Minster—
that should ye gladly do—
And pray to God Almighty
in your distress and need:
For know now, of a surety,
that Death is nigh indeed.
1856
“See, too, that ye forget not
aught ill that ye have done,
And with true zeal and duty
stand ye before God’s throne.
Of this, right noble warriors,
I warn ye well afore,
Save God in Heaven may grant it,
ye’ll hear no masses more.”
1857
They went unto the Minster,
the princes with their men.
But in the hallow’d precincts
bold Hagen spake again
And bade them halt, lest any
should leave the company:
“None knoweth what the Hunfolk
to us may do,” said he;
1858
“My friends, set down your bucklers
upright before your feet,
And answer ye to any
who may unkindly greet
With deep and deadly sword-stroke.
Hark ye, to Hagen’s rede,
So will ye find it worthy
to serve you in your need.”
1859
With that Hagen and Volker,
the twain together, went
In front of the great Minster.
’Twas done with this intent,
That they might make it certain
that the king’s wife would need
To crowd them as she enter’d:
their mien was grim indeed.
1860
Then came the land’s Upholder,
and eke his lady fair.
And deck’d about the body
with raiment rich and rare
One saw the doughty warriors
along with them go by;
The dust aloft was whirling
from Kriemhild’s chivalry.
1861
Now when the mighty ruler
in armour saw array’d
The kings and their companions,
how quickly then he said:
“Why thus my friends behold I
marching with helmets on?
’Twould grieve me, on my honour,
had aught to them been done.
1862
“I’ll gladly make atonement,
however they think good;
If any here have vext them
in either heart or mood,
I give them full assurance
that sorely vext am I;
And whatsoe’er they bid me
I’ll do it readily.”
1863
To this made answer Hagen:
“By none have we been harm’d.
It is my masters’ custom
to go thus fully arm’d
To every courtly meeting—
until three days have run;
To Etzel we will tell it
if aught to us be done.”
1864
This answer made by Hagen
Kriemhilda heard right well.
How hatefully upon him
her sidelong glances fell!
Yet would she not more frankly
her country’s customs own,
Though they to her a long time
in Burgundy were known.
1865
Yet though her hate towards him
so cruel was and fell,
If anyone to Etzel
the truth had dared to tell,
He doubtless had prevented
what came to pass ere long:
But none of them would tell it,
her mastery was so strong.
1866
Then with the queen advancing
there came a mighty band;
But this same pair of warriors
deign’d not to take their stand
Two hand-breadths further backward,
which made the Hunfolk wroth.
Ay, they must press and jostle
with those bold heroes both.
1867
The chamberlains of Etzel
were ill-content at this,
And would upon the warriors
have somewhat wrought amiss,
If they had dared to do it
the king’s High Grace before.
There was a mighty jostling,
but so far nothing more.
1868
When service now was ended
and they would thence be gone,
All suddenly on horseback
appear’d full many a Hun;
And many a beauteous lady
was with Kriemhilda seen;
Full seven thousand warriors
came riding with the queen.
1869
Kriemhilda with her ladies
within the window sat
Along with royal Etzel:
well pleased was he thereat.
Fain would they see the jousting
those doughty heroes show’d:
Ay! in the lists before them
what warriors strange there rode!
1870
And thither had the marshal,
the right brave Dankwart, too,
Come with his squires attending:
his lords’ own retinue
With him, too, he had taken
from the Burgundian land.
The steeds for the bold Niblungs
well saddled were at hand.
1871
When they their steeds had mounted—
the kings and every man—
Forthwith the stalwart Volker
to counsel them began,
That all should tilt together
after their country’s mode;
In course of which, thereafter,
the chiefs right nobly rode.
1872
For what the hero counsell’d
they did not underrate.
The crowding and the shouting
were both exceeding great.
Within the wide enclosure
was gather’d many a man;
Then Etzel and Kriemhilda
to gaze thereon began.
1873
Six hundred knights together
upon the field appear’d,
The warriors of Dietrich,
coming the guests toward.
They thought with the Burgundians
some knightly sport to try,
And would, had he allow’d it,
have done it readily.
1874
Ay me! what goodly warriors
forthwith towards them made!
But when to the lord Dietrich
the news thereof was said,
With Gunther’s men forbade he
that any sport should be.
He fear’d for his retainers:
and surely need had he.
1875
When they of Bern pass’d onward,
and from the place had gone,
The men from Bechelaren,
of Rüdeger’s, came on.
Before the hall five hundred
with shield on arm rode they:
Well pleased had been the margrave
could they have kept away.
1876
Then wisely, as behoved him,
he rode the host throughout,
And said unto his warriors,
they could no longer doubt
But that the men of Gunther
ill will towards them had:
If they would leave the combat
he would in truth be glad.
1877
When these now had pass’d onward—
high-mettled heroes bold—
Came horsemen from Thuringia,
as hath to us been told;
And then the knights of Denmark,
a thousand gallant men;
One saw right many a lance-shaft
fly in the onset then.
1878
Then Haward came and Irnfried
unto the tournament.
The Rhinelanders a challenge
to them had proudly sent.
The warriors of Thuringia
were offer’d many a joust;
In many a noble buckler
were lances deeply thrust.
1879
There, too, the lordly Bloedlin
came with his thousands three.
By Etzel and Kriemhilda
right closely watch’d was he;
For all the knightly jousting
was held within their sight.
The queen rejoiced to see it
for Burgundy’s despite.
1880
And Gibecke and Scrutan
unto the melee rode,
With Hornboge and Ramung,
all in the Hunnish mode.
They held the lists, withstanding
the chiefs of Burgundy;
And over the king’s palace
the shafts went whirling high.
1881
Whate’er was done by any
was nothing else but sound.
Loud was the din that echo’d
palace and hall around,
From clash of shields and bucklers,
by Gunther’s liegemen made;
Whence praises and great honour
unto his folk were paid.
1882
The ardour of their pastime
so mighty was and great,
That from the goodly horses
whereon the heroes sate
The snow-white foam was soaking
through the caparisons.
In every courtly fashion
they sought to meet the Huns.
1883
Then up and spake the minstrel,
Volker the fiddle-player:
“I trow that to withstand us
these warriors will not dare.
I’ve ever heard it said that
they hate us verily;
Now is the time to show it;
a better ne’er will be.
1884
“Straightway unto the stables,”
so Volker loudly cried,
“We’ll have the horses taken;
till towards the eventide
We’ll ride some further courses,
if there be time enow.
What if to us Burgundians
the queen some praise allow!”
1885
Then saw they some one coming;
with stately mien rode he,
Such that no other Hunsman
with him compared could be.
Belike in some high lattice
a sweetheart there he had;
No knightly bride was ever
than he more fairly clad.
1886
Then Volker said: “How can I
pass over such a chance?
Yon darling of the ladies
must feel a thrust of lance—
There’s not a man could help it!
’twill stand him in his life:
I care not though I anger
thereby King Etzel’s wife.”
1887
“For love of me, forbear ye!”
King Gunther quickly spake;
“These people will upbraid us
if we the onset make;
Let ye the Huns begin it,
more seemly ’twere, I ween.”
Now all this time King Etzel
was sitting by the queen.
1888
“I’ll make the hubbub greater,”
quoth Hagen, in his turn;
“We needs must let the ladies
and these same champions learn
How we can sit our horses:
’twill be good sport withal,
Though little praise to any
of Gunther’s men befall.”
1889
Then rode the ready Volker
into the fray again:
Whereby had many a woman,
ere long, right grievous pain.
The noble Hunsman’s body
transfix’d he with his spear;
Which soon both wife and maiden
bewail’d with many a tear.
1890
With hurtling speed did Hagen
rush forward with his men,
His sixty chosen warriors;
and quickly rode he then
Upon the fiddler’s footsteps,
to where the joust was held.
Both Etzel and Kriemhilda
plainly the whole beheld.
1891
The kings were all unwilling
their minstrel brave to leave
Amid the foemen fighting,
and succour none to give;
A thousand heroes therefore
towards him deftly rode—
In high-accomplish’d fashion
they did whate’er they would.
1892
When that the noble Hunsman
in death was stricken low,
One heard among his kinsmen
complaints and cries of woe.
And all the folk were asking:
“Who can this deed have done?”
“Volker, the fearless minstrel,
yon fiddler is the one!”
1893
For swords and bucklers called they,
and held them soon in hand,
The kinsmen of this margrave
of the Hungarian land.
They would have set on Volker,
and slain him where he stood;
The host ran from his window
with all the haste he could.
1894
Then rose a mighty tumult
among the people all.
The kings and their attendants
dismounted at the hall;
Behind the throng his charger
sent each Burgundian;
King Etzel came: to sever
the nobles he began.
1895
From one of the Hun’s kinsmen,
who chanced by him to stand,
He seiz’d a deadly weapon,
and wrench’d it from his hand;
Then drave the people backwards,
for very wroth was he:
“How vain unto these warriors
had been my courtesy
1896
“If ye had slain the minstrel
before my very face;”
So spake to them King Etzel:
“that were a foul disgrace!
For well I marked him riding,
what time he pierced the Hun,
And through no fault on his part,
but by a slip, ’twas done.
1897
“To leave my guests in freedom,
I charge ye to take heed.”
So gave he them safe-conduct;
then led they every steed
Unto the hostel stables;
and many squires they had
Right diligent in service,
who did whate’er they bade.
1898
The host into the palace
took with his friends his way.
No wrath in any of them
would he allow to stay.
The tables were made ready,
the water was brought in:
Yet bitter foes in plenty
had they from o’er the Rhine.
1899
Ere all the lords were seated
a good long time was spent;
Whilst tortured was Kriemhilda
by cares within her pent.
She said: “I seek thy counsel,
O prince of Bern, thy grace
And aid: in sooth my business
is now in evil case.”
1900
Then Hildebrand made answer,
a worthy warrior he:
“Whoever slays the Niblungs
shall have no help from me,
Nay, not for any treasure!
thereby he grief may get:
These knights of ready courage
have ne’er been conquer’d yet.”
1901
And, in his courtly fashion,
thereto Sir Dietrich spake:
“O mighty queen, I pray thee,
thy purpose to forsake.
To me thy kinsmen never
have done such injury,
That I the gallant warriors
in combat would defy.
1902
“The wish doth ill beseem thee,
most noble prince’s wife,
That thou anent thy kinsfolk
wouldst plot against their life.
Trusting unto thy favour
they came unto this land:
Siegfried is not avengèd
by aid of Dietrich’s hand.”
1903
When she could find no falseness
the knight of Bern within,
Then on the spot she promised
to give to Bloedelin
A far-extending marchland,
which Nudung own’d of yore.
As Dankwart shortly slew him,
he thought of it no more.
1904
Quoth she: “Thou ought’st to aid me,
my good Sir Bloedelin,
For in this very palace
are now these foes of mine
Who slew my husband Siegfried,
so well-beloved of me.
To him who helps avenge him,
I ever bound shall be.”
1905
To her then answer’d Bloedel:
“Lady, be sure of this,
To them, for fear of Etzel,
I dare do naught amiss,
Since he thy kinsmen happy
is ever fain to see.
And did I aught to hurt them,
he ne’er would pardon me.”
1906
“Nay, rather, my lord Bloedel,
your friend I’ll ever be.
Guerdon of gold and silver
I will bestow on thee;
And eke a lovely damsel—
Nudung’s betrothèd bride—
Whom thou mayst love and cherish
right gladly at thy side.
1907
“The land, too, and the castles,
all unto thee I give;
So, noble knight, thou mayest
in gladness ever live,
If thou but winn’st the earldom
which Nudung held in fee.
Whate’er to-day I promise,
in truth I’ll give to thee.”
1908
When now the noble Bloedel
the guerdon heard her tell,
And seeing that the damsel
in beauty pleased him well,
By means of strife he purposed
to earn this lovely wife:
But for that cause the warrior
was doom’d to lose his life.
1909
Unto the queen then spake he:
“Within the hall go back:
Ere any guess my purpose,
an uproar I will make.
Hagen will have to answer
for what to you he wrought;
King Gunther’s man, I warrant,
shall bound to you be brought.”
1910
“Now arm yourselves,” cried Bloedel,
“my gallant liegemen all!
We will upon the foemen
within the hostel fall;
I may not be acquitted
of this by Etzel’s wife.
On this must every hero
among us stake his life.”
1911
When the queen found that Bloedel
was on the fray intent,
She tarried there no longer,
but back to table went
And sat beside King Etzel
and with his men as well:
She for the guests’ undoing
had taken counsel fell.
1912
Since means there were not elsewise
to cause the strife to start,
(Kriemhilda’s olden sorrow
lay graven in her heart)
She bade them bring to table
King Etzel’s little son:
How could a vengeful woman
more cruelly have done?
1913
Then went that self-same minute
of Etzel’s liegemen four,
And thither from his chamber
the young king Ortlieb bore
Unto the prince’s table,
where Hagen also sate.
(The boy was doom’d to perish
through Hagen’s deadly hate.)
1914
As soon as mighty Etzel
espied his little son,
He turned to his wife’s kinsmen
and spake in kindly tone:
“Now, my good friends, behold ye,
my only son is he,
And eke your sister’s offspring:
which well for you may be.
1915
“If he his kindred likens,
he’ll be a gallant wight,
Right powerful and noble,
a well-grown man of might.
Should I live some while longer
he’ll own a dozen lands;
So look ye for good service
at my young Ortlieb’s hands.
1916
“I therefore fain would pray you,
O well-loved friends of mine,
When ye are homeward riding
unto the river Rhine,
That ye upon the journey
would take your sister’s son,
And let your loving kindness
unto the child be shown.
1917
“And rear him up in honour
till he to manhood grow.
If any in your borders
hath wrought you any woe,
When he is of full stature
he will your vengeance aid.”
King Etzel’s wife Kriemhilda
heard also what he said.
1918
“If unto days of manhood
the child should grow and thrive,
These thanes, I trow,” said Hagen,
“their trust to him will give.
Yet the young king, meseemeth,
is of a weakly sort:
Folk will not often see me
attending Ortlieb’s court.”
1919
The king look’d round at Hagen—
this speech had vext him sore;
And though, with princely breeding,
he spake thereof no more,
His heart was very heavy
and troubled was his mind.
Nor was the mood of Hagen
a whit to joy inclined.
1920
The princes all were sorry,
together with the king,
That of his child had Hagen
e’er spoken such a thing.
With ill content they bore it:
nor knew they aught at all
Of what through this same warrior
was shortly to befall.
Adventure XXXII
How Bloedelin Was Slain
1921
The warriors of Bloedel
were ready for the fray;
Clad in their thousand hauberks
they thither took their way
Where Dankwart with his yeomen
still at the table sate;
There rose between the heroes
a strife of deadly hate.
1922
As soon as the Lord Bloedel
before the table went,
Dankwart the marshal met him
on greeting due intent:
“Right welcome to our hostel,
Lord Bloedelin, are ye,
Although I greatly marvel
what may the reason be?”
1923
“Thou hast no need to greet me,”
so answer’d Bloedelin:
“For this my coming bodeth
an end to thee and thine,
Thanks to thy brother Hagen,
who erewhile Siegfried slew.
That to the Huns thou’lt answer,
and many another too.”
1924
“Nay, say not so, Lord Bloedel,”
the marshal Dankwart said:
“Else must we rue too quickly
this journey we have made.
I was but a small stripling
when Siegfried lost his life;
I know not what against me
bringeth King Etzel’s wife.”
1925
“No more about the matter
know I to say to you,
Save that your kinsmen did it,
Gunther, and Hagen too.
Look to yourselves, ye lost ones,
ye go not hence away!
By death must ye the forfeit
unto Kriemhilda pay.”
1926
“What! and will nothing turn you?”
cried Dankwart thereupon:
“Would I had ne’er besought you,
that better were undone!”
Up from the table sprang he,
the warrior swift and strong,
And drew a keen-edged weapon,
that heavy was and long.
1927
Therewith he struck at Bloedel,
with stroke of sword so fleet,
That off his head was smitten,
and lay before his feet.
“Be that thy wedding-dower,”
the warrior Dankwart said,
“Unto the bride of Nudung,
whom thou wouldst woo and wed!
1928
“To-morrow they may plight her
unto another one:
If he will earn the guerdon,
the like to him be done!”
A faithful-hearted Hunsman
Dankwart aware had made,
How that the queen against him
such grievous plots had laid.
1929
When now the men of Bloedel
saw how their lord lay slain,
Then from the guests no longer
their hands could they restrain.
With broadswords high uplifted
they sprang in deadly mood
Upon the youthful warriors:
which ere long many rued.
1930
Then loudly shouted Dankwart
unto his followers all:
“Well see ye, noble yeomen,
how things are like to fall!
Ye hapless ones, be wary,
in sooth there’s need to be,
Albeit noble Kriemhild
bade us right lovingly.”
1931
They to whom swords were lacking,
reach’d down before each seat,
And many a long stool lifted
from underneath their feet.
Then the Burgundian yeomen
no longer would forbear,
And heavy stools made bruises
through many a helmet there.
1932
How grimly thus the strangers
essay’d their lives to save!
And so the arm’d assailants
from out the house they drave;
Yet left they dead within it
five hundred men or more:
And all of the defenders
were red and wet with gore.
1933
These tidings of disaster
were carried presently
Unto the knights of Etzel
(which grieved them bitterly):
How Bloedel and his liegemen
had all to death been brought,
Which deed had Hagen’s brother
with his retainers wrought.
1934
Ere yet the king had heard it—
urg’d by the hate they bore—
The Hunfolk donn’d their armour;
two thousand men or more.
And march’d against the yeomen;—
what else was to be done?
And out of all the people
they left alive not one.
1935
Before the house the traitors
had led a mighty host;
On guard the foreign yeomen
stood bravely at their post.
But what avail’d their valour?
They all were doom’d to die;
And presently arose there
a gruesome butchery.
1936
And here ye must a marvel
of monstrous import hear:
Nine thousand yeomen lying
all done to death there were;
A dozen knights moreover
of Dankwart’s own command.
One saw him all-forsaken
amidst the foemen stand.
1937
The uproar was abated,
the clash of arms was o’er.
Then look’d athwart his shoulder
Dankwart the warrior;
He spake: “Woe for the comrades
who from my side are gone!
Alas, that ’midst the foemen
I now must stand alone!”
1938
Upon his body shower’d
the sword-strokes keen and rife;—
Ere long to be bewailèd
by many a hero’s wife—.
His shield aloft he lifted,
and held the arm-brace low;
And drench’d full many a hauberk
with life-blood’s crimson flow.
1939
Then cried the son of Aldrian:
“Woe for the ills I bear!
Make way, ye Hunnish warriors,
and let me to the air,
That the wind’s breath may cool me,
a battle-weary wight!”
Right royally he bore him
in all the people’s sight.
1940
But when the strife-worn hero
outside the hostel sprang,
What fresh swords on his helmet
again and ever rang!
They who had not yet witness’d
what wonders wrought his hand,
Now rush’d to meet the warrior
from the Burgundian land.
1941
“Now would to God,” cried Dankwart,
“I had a messenger
To seek my brother Hagen,
and make him well aware
How I amid these warriors
so sorely am bested!
Hence surely would he help me,
or lie beside me dead!”
1942
Then spake the Hunnish warriors:
“That herald must thou be,
When we before thy brother
a corse shall carry thee!
So first shall Gunther’s henchman
what sorrow is be taught:
Thou hast unto King Etzel
such grievous damage wrought.”
1943
Said he: “Now stint your threatenings,
and further backwards get,
Or verily I’ll drench you
some other hauberks yet!
I will myself the story
before the court lay bare,
And eke unto my masters
my grievance great declare.”
1944
He laid on Etzel’s liegemen
so heavily his hand,
That not a man amongst them
durst him with sword withstand.
Yet in his shield their lances
so quickly did they aim,
That he was fain to drop it,
so heavy it became.
1945
Him, now no longer shielded,
they thought to overwhelm;
Ha, but what deadly gashes
he cut right through the helm!
Until before him stagger’d
full many a valiant one:
Whereby much praise and honour
the gallant Dankwart won.
1946
From one side and the other,
upon him hurtled they;
Ay, some of them too quickly
had come into the fray!
Before the foe upstood he,
e’en as a woodland boar
At bay the sleuth-hounds faces:
could valour e’er be more?
1947
His path was newly-sprinkled
with life-blood warm and wet.
No single-handed warrior
had ever striven yet
Against a host of foemen,
as he had boldly done.
Folk mark’d how Hagen’s brother
to court right nobly won.
1948
By sewers and by butlers
was heard the clash of swords;
From many a hand the liquors
were flung upon the boards,
As were the victuals also
which to the hall they bare.
And stalwart foes in plenty
forestall’d him at the stair.
1949
“What will ye now, ye sewers?”
the weary warrior cried:
“In sooth for all the strangers,
good cheer ye should provide,
And to the nobles ought ye
good victuals to convey;—
And to my well-lov’d masters
let me my tidings say.”
1950
Whoe’er by force before him
upon the stairway sprang,
On each of them so sorely
his heavy sword he swang,
In very dread their safety
further aloof they sought;
And so his strength of body
right mickle marvels wrought.
Adventure XXXIII
How the Burgundians Fought with the Huns
1951
Within the door an entrance
thus gallant Dankwart made;
The household folk of Etzel
to stand aside he bade.
The whole of his apparel
bespatter’d was with gore;
A mighty naked weapon
within his hand he bore.
1952
Then loudly Dankwart shouted
before the assembled throng:
“Bestir thee, brother Hagen,
thou sittest all too long!
To thee and God in Heaven
appeal I in our need:
Yeomen and knights together
lie in the hostel dead.”
1953
And he cried back in answer:
“And who hath done it then?”
Quoth Dankwart: “The Lord Bloedel,
together with his men.
But dearly hath he paid it,
that would I have you know.
I smote his head from off him;
mine own hand gave the blow.”
1954
“ ’Tis but a little grievance,”
quoth Hagen of Tronjé;
“Whene’er one has occasion
of any thane to say,
That he by hands of warrior
was of his life fordone,
So much the less fair women
for him have need to moan.
1955
“Now tell me, brother Dankwart,
why all so red ye be?
Methinks that thou art wounded
and suffer’st grievously.
If in the land he liveth
who this on thee hath done,
Except the foul fiend save him,
his life’s as good as gone.”
1956
“You see me whole and hearty;
with blood my clothes are red,
But from the wounds of others
it thus hath happenèd;
And they have been so many
that I have slain to-day,
That verily their number
on oath I could not say.”
1957
He answer’d: “Brother Dankwart,
see to the door do thou,
And let not of the Hunsmen
a single man come through.
I’ll reckon with these warriors,
as need we have, in faith!
Our men-at-arms are lying
in undeservèd death.”
1958
“If chamberlain I must be,”
the gallant man replied,
“To serve such mighty rulers,
I am well satisfied.
I’ll answer for the stairway,
as honour’s dear to me.”
Unto Kriemhilda’s warriors
naught could more direful be.
1959
“It is to me a marvel,”
Hagen thereafter spake:
“What meaneth all the fluster
these Hunnish warriors make?
They think they well could spare him,
who yonder door doth hold,
And hath these high concernments
to the Burgundians told!
1960
“Long time about Kriemhilda
have I been wont to hear,
That she her bitter sorrow
was not content to bear.
Now drink we to her darling!
for royal wine we’ll call!
The princeling of the Hunfolk
shall be the first of all!”
1961
Then the child Ortlieb slew he,
Hagen, that warrior good,
So that from sword-blade downward
flow’d o’er his hands the blood;
The infant’s head was sever’d
and on the queen’s lap fell.
Then rose amongst the warriors
a slaughter horrible.
1962
With double-handed sword-stroke
he dealt a blow at large
Against the man of learning,
who had the child in charge.
His head all in a moment
before the table lay:
In good sooth for the teacher
it was but sorry pay!
1963
He saw by Etzel’s table
a certain minstrelman,
And Hagen in his fury
to fall on him began;
His left hand on the fiddle
he lopp’d off suddenly:
“There’s somewhat thou canst carry
for news to Burgundy!”
1964
“Woe for my hand!” cried Werbel
the minstrel: “wilt thou say
What evil I have done thee,
Lord Hagen of Tronjé?
In all good faith I journey’d
unto your master’s land;
The notes how can I finger
since I have lost my hand?”
1965
But little heeded Hagen,
though he ne’er fiddled more.
He wreak’d within the palace
a vengeance grim and sore
Upon the knights of Etzel,
of whom a host he slew.
Death dealt he in the palace
to people not a few.
1966
The ever-ready Volker
up from the table sprang:
And in his hand right loudly
his fiddle-bow outrang.
Right fearsome was the music
that Gunther’s minstrel play’d;
Ay! ’mid the gallant Hunsmen
what enemies he made!
1967
Upsprang, too, from the table,
the noble rulers three:
They gladly would have stay’d it,
ere mischief worse should be.
But all their wit avail’d not
the rising storm to quell,
When Volker joining Hagen
to such wild raving fell.
1968
When saw the Lord of Rhineland
the fight could not be stay’d,
The prince himself fought also,
and many a wide wound made
Upon his foemen’s bodies,
their shining mail-coats through.
A hand-strong hero was he:
as now all grimly knew.
1969
The stalwart Gernot likewise
was forward in the strife;
Ay! he among the Hunsmen
took many a hero’s life,
A keen-edged weapon wielding—
by Rüdeger ’twas given.
By him were Etzel’s warriors
right grievously bedriven.
1970
The young son of Dame Uté
into the fight now dash’d,
And gloriously his broadsword
right through the helmets crash’d—
To grief of Etzel’s warriors
of the Hungarian land.
There wrought were many marvels
by gallant Gis’lher’s hand.
1971
Howe’er the kings and liegemen
were valiant in the fight,
Above them all right plainly
did Giselher in might
Stand forth against the foemen;
he was a hero good.
Such wounds he dealt, that many
fell weltering in their blood.
1972
The men of Etzel also
stood stoutly to the foe.
There one might see the strangers
go hacking to and fro
With their bright glancing weapons,
all through the royal hall.
And horrid shrieks from all sides
upon the ear did fall.
1973
They who were on the outside
would to their friends within;
But found that at the doorways
small vantage they could win.
Out from the hall right gladly
would they within it fare:
But none of them would Dankwart
let up or down the stair.
1974
Thereby around the gateways
a mighty press arose,
And din of helmets also
beneath the broadsword blows.
And thus the gallant Dankwart
fell into sore distress:
But that his brother heeded,
as bound in faithfulness.
1975
For thereupon to Volker
Sir Hagen cried aloud:
“Now look you yonder, comrade,
how round my brother crowd
The Hunnish warriors closely,
and blows upon him rain:
Friend, go and help my brother,
or we shall lose the thane.”
1976
“That will I do full surely,”
answer’d the minstrelman;
And straightway through the palace
his fiddling he began.
His hand with his stout broadsword
full often music made;
To him the Rhenish warriors
unbounded thanks repaid.
1977
And soon the gallant Volker
to Dankwart came and said:
“To-day no little trouble
hath fallen on your head.
Your brother hath enjoin’d me
to lend a helping hand:
If you’ll look to the outside,
within the door I’ll stand.”
1978
Dankwart the ever-ready
without the gateway stood;
Well guarded he the stairway,
let any come who would.
One heard the clang of weapons
in the bold hero’s hand.
The like, within, did Volker
of the Burgundian land.
1979
Loudly the valiant minstrel
shouted across the throng:
“The hall is closed, friend Hagen,
with bolt and barrier strong.
The door of Etzel’s chamber
is safely barr’d as well:
Two heroes’ hands that hold it
a thousand bolts excel.”
1980
When Hagen, Lord of Tronjé,
knew that the door was fast,
His shield back on his shoulders
the goodly chieftain cast.
First fell he to avenging
the ills upon him wrought:
Of longer life his foemen
had then but little thought.
1981
The Prince of Bern no sooner
had seen how matters went,
And how the mighty Hagen
so many helmets rent,
Than sprang the Amelung ruler
upon a bench: quoth he:
“The liquor Hagen giveth
is vile as drink can be!”
1982
The host was full of sorrow—
good cause had he to rue:
What friends of him belovèd
before his eyes they slew!
And hardly from his foemen
unscath’d himself came he;
In grief he sat—what profit
was it a king to be?
1983
The mighty Queen Kriemhilda
to Dietrich call’d and said;
“With all your manhood give me,
O noble knight, your aid,
By all those princes’ merits
erewhile of Amelung land:
Should Hagen once have reach’d me,
my death were close at hand.”
1984
“And how am I to help you,”
Lord Dietrich answering said,
“Great queen, when I have reason
myself to be afraid?
These followers of Gunther
with wrath so sorely burn,
That I with no one’s safety
can now myself concern.”
1985
“Nay, say not so, Lord Dietrich,
thou noble knight and good,
This day make plain to all men
thy kind and virtuous mood,
In that thou hence wilt help me:
or I am like to die.”
Her fears had brought Kriemhilda
to sore anxiety.
1986
“Can I do aught to help you,
I verily will try;
Since never have I witness’d,
for many years gone by,
To such deep wrath enkindled
so many a warrior good.
Ay! through the riven helmets
I see the surging blood.”
1987
This thane of proven valour
with power began to shout;
Like unto horn of bison
his voice rang loudly out,
Until its strength re-echoed
the wide-wall’d stronghold round.
The mightiness of Dietrich
was great beyond all bound.
1988
When Gunther heard the clamour
proceeding from this man
Above the noise of battle,
to hearken he began.
Said he: “The voice of Dietrich
is to my hearing plain;
I trow that our retainers
some friend of his have slain.
1989
“I see him on the table,
he beckons with his hand.
Ye friends of mine and kinsfolk
from the Burgundian land,
Cease fighting for a season,
and let one hear and see
What to the thane hath happen’d
through them who follow me.”
1990
And when the royal Gunther
besought and gave command,
They, in the stress of battle,
halted with sword in hand.
So great the power he wielded,
not one durst strike a blow
Whilst him of Bern he challenged,
with readiness enow.
1991
Said he: “Most noble Dietrich,
what hath to you been done
By any of my people?
I’m willing, be it known,
Amends and satisfaction
right readily to give.
Were any man to wrong you,
right deeply should I grieve.”
1992
Then answer’d the Lord Dietrich:
“Naught hath been done to me;
But let me leave the palace
with your safe-conduct free,
And get with my retainers
from this fell strife away:
For that I’ll owe you service
assuredly for aye.”
1993
Then unto him spake Wolfhart:
“Why ask ye grace so soon?
That door, I trow, the fiddler
hath not so closely done
But we can force it open
enough to get away.”
“Now hold thy peace,” cried Dietrich,
“the devil thou dost play.”
1994
Then spake the royal Gunther:
“That will I let you do.
Out of this place depart ye,
many be ye or few,
But not a single foeman—
here stay they everyone.
They have anent these Hunsfolk
so basely to me done.”
1995
When Dietrich heard that saying,
he took beneath his arm
The noble queen, sore stricken
with sorrow and alarm.
Upon his other arm he
took Etzel with him then;
There also went with Dietrich
six hundred goodly men.
1996
Then up and spake the margrave,
the noble Rüdeger:
“If any from the palace
be yet allowed to fare,
Who still are fain to serve you,
to us let it be known:
For thus may peace enduring
betwixt good friends be sown.”
1997
Whereto made answer Gis’lher,
of the Burgundian land:
“To you shall peace and pardon
be granted at our hand,
Since you and your retainers
were e’er of faithful heart.
You all shall, unmolested,
hence with your friends depart.”
1998
When Rüdeger the margrave
departed from the hall,
Five hundred men went with him
or more, belike, in all,
Who came from Bechelaren,
liegemen and friends as well;
By whom unto King Gunther
great mischief soon befell.
1999
Meanwhile a Hunnish warrior,
who saw how Etzel went
By Dietrich’s side, to profit
thereby was all intent;
But with his sword the minstrel
fetch’d at him such a slice,
That at the feet of Etzel
his head lay in a trice.
2000
When that the country’s ruler
had got outside the place,
He stopp’d and look’d behind him
towards where Volker was:
“Woe’s me for this dread stranger;
a cruel destiny
It is that all my warriors
must dead before him lie!
2001
“And woe upon this feasting,”
the noble sovran cried,
“For one, by name of Volker,
is fighting there inside
Like to a savage boar,
and yet a minstrel he!
I thank my Lord and Saviour
I’m from that devil free!
2002
“Right evil sound his measures,
his strokes are bloody red;
Ay, and his tunes have smitten
full many a hero dead.
I know not what against us
this minstrel doth attest,
For never have I harbour’d
so downright ill a guest!”
2003
They’d let from out the palace
as many as they chose;
Then from the folk within it
a fearful din arose.
The guests for what had happen’d
a dire revenge would have.
Ay! Volker the undaunted,
what helmets then he clave!
2004
Gunther, the noble ruler,
turn’d at that noise around:
“Hear’st thou yon music, Hagen,
which Volker there doth sound
Amid the Hunfolk fiddling,
who through the door would go?
He hath a blood-red straker
upon his fiddle-bow!”
2005
“It grieves me beyond measure,”
Hagen in answer spake,
“That I before that warrior
a seat in hall should take.
I have been his companion,
as he was likewise mine,
And we shall aye be faithful
if hence we ever win.
2006
“Now mark, great king, how Volker
doth thee and thine uphold
Right willingly he earneth
thy silver and thy gold.
Through steel of hardest temper
his fiddle-bow will smite;
He breaks from off the helmets
their shining crests and bright.
2007
“I never saw a fiddler
so nobly hold his own
As this same warrior Volker
throughout the day hath done.
On helmet and on buckler
his music ringeth clear:
A gallant horse deserves he
and raiment rich to wear.”
2008
Of those of Hunnish kindred
who had been in that hall,
Not one was left within it
alive amongst them all.
Now silenced was the uproar;
for none there were to fight:
Aside was laid the weapon
of every gallant knight.
Adventure XXXIV
How They Cast Forth the Dead
2009
Down sat the knights and nobles,
by all their labours spent;
Before the hall together
Volker and Hagen went.
These warriors over-weary
lean’d on their shields for rest;
The while betwixt the couple
pass’d many a ready jest.
2010
Then Giselher, the warrior
from Burgundy, outspake:
“Dear friends, ye must in no wise
seek yet your rest to take:
The dead folk must ye carry
straight from the house away.
There’ll be another onset,
that can I surely say.
2011
“Beneath our feet ’tis needful
they should no longer lie.
And ere by storm the Hunsmen
undo us utterly,
Some wounds we yet will give them,
e’en as I love to do;
For firmly am I minded,”
said Giselher, “thereto.”
2012
“Well’s me for such a master,”
said Hagen, thereunto;
“From none such rede were likely,
save from a warrior true,
As we from my young master
this very day have had:
I trow all ye Burgundians
may therefore be right glad.”
2013
Then follow’d they his counsel,
and carried through the door
Dead warriors seven thousand
and cast them therebefore.
At foot of the hall stairway
they fell upon the ground;
Then rose a doleful wailing
from all their kinsmen round.
2014
Some few there were among them
whose wounds were not so bad
But that with gentler usage
they yet might life have had,
Who from that height down falling
in death must needs lie low;
For this their friends were wailing
and grievous was their woe.
2015
Then spake the fiddler Volker,
a goodly hero he:
“Now witness I the truth of
what hath been told to me:
Base cowards are these Hunsmen,
they wail like womankind!
These sorely wounded bodies
they ought to tend and bind.”
2016
Then deem’d a certain margrave
he spake with purpose good.
He saw one of his kinsmen
who lay amid the blood,
And clasp’d his arms about him
and sought to drag him thence;
Then shot the ruthless minstrel
and slew him with a lance.
2017
And when the others saw it,
a panic seized the crowd;
They all against the minstrel
began to curse aloud.
Then pluck’d he up a javelin,
that temper’d was and keen,
Which by some Hun or other
aim’d at himself had been.
2018
This, right across the fortress,
he cast with might and main
Far o’er the crowd of people;
and thereby Etzel’s men
He warn’d to take their station
more distant from the hall.
The folk his mighty prowess
now dreaded above all.
2019
Yet still before the palace
stood many a thousand men.
Sir Volker and Sir Hagen
began to parley then,
And unto the King Etzel
all in their minds to tell:
Whence grievous ills thereafter
those heroes bold befell.
2020
“To give the people courage,”
quoth Hagen, “ ’tis but right
That ever should the nobles
be foremost in the fight:
Not otherwise my masters
have here been seen to do:
They hew right through the helmets,
blood flows at every blow.”
2021
So valiant was Etzel,
he straightway gripp’d his shield.
“Now prithee be thou wary,”
said to him Dame Kriemhild,
“Offer unto thy warriors
gold overflowingly.
If Hagen yonder reach thee,
death will be nigh to thee.”
2022
So bold a man the king was,
he was not to be stay’d;—
The like of such great princes
can seldom now be said!
Needs must they by his shield-strap
to draw him backward try.
Again the savage Hagen
spake to him scoffingly:
2023
“It was a far-fetch’d kinship,”
the warrior Hagen cried,
“That Etzel and Sir Siegfried
to one another tied.
He was Kriemhilda’s lover
ere she set eyes on thee,
Thou coward king! why shouldst thou
take counsel against me?”
2024
To him so speaking hearken’d
the noble sovran’s wife.
Thereon within Kriemhilda
was evil humour rife,
That he should dare upbraid her
in face of Etzel’s men:
Against the guests began she
therefore to plot again.
2025
“Who Hagen, Lord of Tronjé,
will do to death,” she said,
“And hither at my bidding
will bring to me his head,
For him the shield of Etzel
I’ll fill with ruddy gold,
And give him lands for guerdon,
and goodly burghs to hold.”
2026
“Now truly,” quoth the minstrel,
“I know not what they lack!
I never yet saw heroes
so sluggishly hang back
When one hath heard them offer’d
so noble a reward:
From this time forth can Etzel
ne’er hold them in regard.
2027
“Of those who vilely batten
upon their prince’s bread
And now are fain to shun him
in his most pressing need,
Of such here mark I many
who would be reckon’d brave,
And stand like very cravens:
shame must they ever have!”
Adventure XXXV
How Iring Was Slain
2028
Thereon the margrave Iring,
who came from Denmark, cried:
“I have in all my doings
on honour long relied,
And in the people’s battles
oft gain’d the mastery:
Now bring to me my weapons;
Hagen I will defy!”
2029
“ ’Gainst that will I take counsel,”
Hagen in answer cried;
“So bid these Hunnish warriors
stand further yet aside;
If two or three among ye
should rush into this hall,
Back down the stairs disabled
I’ll send them, one and all!”
2030
“For that I’ll not forego it,”
said Iring, answering,
“I have ere this attempted
as troublesome a thing.
With sword in hand against thee
I’ll hold my own alone;
What boots thy haughty bearing
that thou in words hast shown?”
2031
Then quickly in his armour
thane Iring was y-clad,
With Irnfried of Thuringia,
a bold and gallant lad,
And eke the stalwart Haward,
with full a thousand men;
Whatever part was Iring’s,
that would they all maintain.
2032
The fiddler saw them coming—
a very host they were—
In arms along with Iring,
to set upon him there.
On head, well-fasten’d, wore they
right many a helmet good.
Then wax’d the gallant Volker
wrathful enough in mood.
2033
“Now dost thou see, friend Hagen,
how Iring yonder goes,
Who swore that thee in sword-fight
he singly would oppose?
Doth falsehood fit a hero?
Him I misprize therefore;
He brings with him in armour
a thousand men or more!”
2034
“Now call me not a liar,”
the liege of Haward said,
“I’m ready to accomplish
what I have promisèd;
For fear of no man living
will I my word disown;
How dread so e’er be Hagen,
I’ll stand to him alone.”
2035
Then Iring begg’d his kinsmen
and followers, at their feet,
That they would let him singly
in fight the warrior meet.
Unwillingly they yielded,
for well enough to them
Was known the haughty Hagen,
from Burgundy who came.
2036
Yet he so long besought them,
that ’twas at last agreed.
For when his people saw him
so bent upon the deed,
And that he strove for honour,
they could but let him go;
Thereon a grim encounter
befell betwixt the two.
2037
Iring, the thane of Denmark,
aloft his javelin bare
And held his shield before him,
that noble knight and rare;
Then up the steps to Hagen
before the hall he ran:
Amongst the thanes assembled
a fearful din began.
2038
Then from their hands the lances
they forward hurl’d with might,
Right through the strong-bound bucklers
upon the harness bright,
So that the broken spear-shafts
were whirl’d high in the air.
Then clutch’d they at their broadswords
that grim and gallant pair.
2039
The strength of doughty Hagen
it was a mighty thing,
Yet Iring’s blows upon him
made all the house to ring;
From palace and from turret
echo’d their strokes again:
Yet naught avail’d the warrior
his will on him to gain.
2040
So Iring turn’d from Hagen
and left him scatheless yet;
Against the fiddle-player
forthwith himself he set.
Him, with his sturdy sword-strokes
he thought he might compel;
But these the well-skill’d chieftain
knew how to parry well.
2041
Then smote the fiddler sorely,
till o’er the buckler’s side
By Volker’s hand the plating
was scatter’d far and wide;
So was he fain to leave him,
a gruesome man was he;
Then Iring rush’d on Gunther,
the lord of Burgundy.
2042
And stout enough for combat
was either of them made.
Howe’er on one another
Gunther and Iring laid,
Neither could wound the other
to draw a drop of blood;
From that their armour saved them,
so strong it was and good.
2043
Eke Gunther left he standing
and on to Gernot ran,
And smote till from his hauberk
the sparks to fly began,
And yet the sturdy Gernot,
the knight of Burgundy,
So dealt on gallant Iring
that he was like to die.
2044
Then from this prince he hurried—
swift-footed was he too—
And four of the Burgundians
the hero quickly slew;—
All noble court retainers
from Worms-on-Rhine they were.
Then wrath could ne’er be greater
than that of Giselher.
2045
“Now, by the Lord! Sir Iring,”
cried Giselher the lad,
“For these thou needs must pay me
who lie before thee dead—
By thee this moment slaughter’d;”
then ran on him straightway
And smote the knight of Denmark
so that he needs must stay.
2046
Beneath his hands succumbing
down fell he in the blood;
And all were well persuaded
that now the hero good
Ne’er more would wield a weapon
in battle anywhere:
Yet Iring lay unwounded
in front of Giselher.
2047
From blows upon the helmet
and clashing of the sword
His wits were sorely stricken
and scatter’d all abroad,
So that the gallant warrior
of life took no more thought:
This by his strength of body
bold Giselher had wrought.
2048
When from his head the numbness
at last began to go,
Which had erstwhile come on him
from that o’erwhelming blow,
Thought he: “I still am living,
nor wounded anywhere;
Now know I for the first time
the strength of Giselher.”
2049
On one side and the other
his enemies heard he;
Were they his case aware of
the worse for him ’twould be;
And likewise had he noted
that Giselher was by:
He ponder’d how ’twas likely
he might these foemen fly.
2050
How madly then upsprang he
from out that bloody stew!
Unto his ready fleetness
his thanks were surely due.
Out of the place forth rush’d he,
but there saw Hagen stand,
And smote upon him swiftly
with all his might of hand.
2051
Then to himself thought Hagen:
“Death thee for this must have!
Unless the devil help thee,
thyself thou canst not save.”
Yet Iring through the helmet
a wound on Hagen made:
This did the knight with Vaske,
that was so good a blade.
2052
No sooner felt Sir Hagen
the smarting of the wound
Than terribly his weapon
he whirl’d in hand around.
Forthwith must Haward’s liegeman
for safety flee again,
And Hagen down the stairway
to follow him was fain.
2053
Above his head bold Iring
his shield made haste to lean;
And if that self-same stairway
yet thrice its length had been,
Hagen had ne’er allow’d him
to deal a single stroke.
Ay me! the sparks so ruddy
that from his helmet broke!
2054
Yet back unto his people
Iring in safety won.
Then soon unto Kriemhilda
the tidings were made known
How he had wrought in battle
on Hagen of Tronjé;
For which her thanks right hearty
the queen began to say:
2055
“Now God reward thee, Iring,
a hero good thou art;
Much hast thou me encouraged
and comforted my heart.
Lo, now on Hagen’s raiment
all red with blood I look!”
With her own hand Kriemhilda
his shield, in kindness, took.
2056
“So much you need not thank him,”
quoth Hagen; “if again
With me he’d try his fortune,
it would beseem the thane.
If ever thence return’d he,
a valiant man he’d be!
The wound will serve you little
that he hath given to me.
2057
“That you have seen my hauberk
by blood of mine made red,
Unto the death of many
hath me embitterèd.
Against that liege of Haward’s
I have the utmost wrath;—
Albeit the warrior Iring
hath done me little scathe.”
2058
Meanwhile the man of Denmark
into the wind had gone
To cool him in his hauberk—
his helmet off was done.
And all the folk were saying
his prowess was right good;
Whereby they made the margrave
exceeding bold of mood.
2059
Then presently spake Iring:
“My friends, now mark ye well
That ye must arm me quickly:
I’ll try another spell,
If that o’erbearing tyrant
I yet may bring to book.”
His shield was hack’d to pieces:
a better one he took.
2060
Full speedily the warrior
was better arm’d than e’er;
A javelin right sturdy
with hate in heart he bare,
Wherewith once more with Hagen
he purposed there to fight:
With foe-like mien awaited
for him that murderous wight.
2061
But brook’d not the thane Hagen
to stay for his advance;—
He ran full speed towards him,
with blows of sword and lance,
Until he reach’d the stairs’ foot:
his wrath was fierce and dread,
And all the strength of Iring
stood him in little stead.
2062
They slash’d right through the bucklers,
till each of them began
With ruddy fire to sparkle.
And ere long Haward’s man
By the broadsword of Hagen
was desperately smit
Through shield and armour: never
mote he get well of it.
2063
When that the chieftain Iring
was of the wound aware,
His shield unto his helm-band
he raised, to rest it there.
He thought that with this damage
he now had got his fill:
The liegeman of King Gunther
had more to give him still.
2064
Before his feet did Hagen
a javelin espy;
And with it straight at Iring,
the Danish chief, let fly—
So well, that from his forehead
the shaft thereof stuck out.
For him the warrior Hagen
a cruel end had wrought.
2065
Iring must needs betake him
the Danish folk unto;
But ere they loosed the helmet
from off the chief, they drew
Out from his head the lance-shaft;
then death to him came nigh.
His kinsfolk all were wailing:
well might they, verily.
2066
Then came the queen towards him,
and over him she leant,
And for the stalwart Iring
gave to her sorrow vent;
She wept, his wounds beholding,
and bitter was her grief.
Then spake unto his kinsmen
that brave and gallant chief:
2067
“I pray thee stint thy weeping,
most noble lady mine,
For what avails thy sorrow?
I must my life resign
Because of wounds and damage
that have been dealt on me.
No more will death allow me
Etzel to serve and thee.”
2068
Then unto the Thuringians
and to the Danes he spake:
“The gifts that ye were promised
no hand of yours shall take
From yonder royal lady—
her ruddy gold so bright!
Death’s visage must ye look on,
if ye with Hagen fight.”
2069
All pallid was his colour,
the seal of death he bore—
The ever-valiant Iring—
to them ’twas sorrow sore.
For Haward’s gallant liegeman
there was no hope of life:
And so the men of Denmark
must forward go to strife.
2070
Irnfried as well as Haward
sprang forth the hall before
With warriors a thousand;
a horrible uproar
On every side resounded,
mighty and clamouring.
And ah, at the Burgundians
what lances sharp they fling!
2071
And then the gallant Irnfried
straight for the minstrel made,
At whose right hand redoubted
great injury he had.
For lo, the noble fiddler
the landgrave sore did smite
Through firmly-fasten’d helmet:
he was a gruesome wight!
2072
And thereupon Sir Irnfried
the valiant minstrel smote
Till rents perforce were riven
across his ring-wrought coat,
And all his breastplate quiver’d
with sparks of fiery red;
Albeit fell the landgrave
before the fiddler dead.
2073
Anon were met together
Haward and Hagen bold,
I wot that whoso saw them
a marvel might behold!
From hand of either hero
the sword-strokes follow’d free;
Foredoom’d to die was Haward
by him of Burgundy.
2074
When Danesmen and Thuringians
their leaders saw in death,
Then rose a frightful struggle
the palace walls beneath,
Or ever they the gateway
by might and main had won:
Full many a shield and helmet
were shatter’d and fordone.
2075
“Give way!” then shouted Volker,
“and let them all come through—
What they would fain accomplish
they can in nowise do.
In but a short time after
they’re bound to die within,
And what the queen hath promised
by dying they can win.”
2076
Now when these haughty chieftains
within the chamber went,
Of many a one amongst them
the head was lowly bent,
For by their rapid sword-blows
to perish he was fain.
Well fought the gallant Gernot,
and Giselher the thane.
2077
There got within the palace
a thousand men and four;
One saw their flashing falchions
as through the air they tore.
Of all who came within it
soon every warrior fell.
One might of the Burgundians
full many a marvel tell.
2078
Thereafter was a silence,
and all the uproar died.
While, out of hole and crevice,
blood flow’d on every side
And ran into the gutters
from all the corpses there.
Thus had the men of Rhineland
wrought by their prowess rare.
2079
Then sat they down to rest them,
those men of Burgundy.
Their weapons and their bucklers
they presently laid by.
Yet still the gallant fiddler
before the palace stay’d,
In case that any other
to fight with him essay’d.
2080
The king lamented sorely,
as likewise did his wife:
And maids and matrons also
aweary were of life.
I ween that Death had taken
an oath to do them ill:
Whence, by the guests to perish
were many warriors still.
Adventure XXXVI
How the Queen Bade That the Hall Be Set on Fire
2081
“Now do ye off your helmets,”
quoth Hagen, the bold knight,
“For I and my companion
will guard ye all aright.
And should the men of Etzel
a fresh attack essay,
So will I warn my masters
with all the speed I may.”
2082
The head was then uncover’d
of many a warrior good;
They sat upon the fallen,
who lay there steep’d in blood,
And had to death been smitten
so lately by their hand.
By many evil glances
the noble guests were scann’d.
2083
Before the fall of evening
the king his measures took—
The queen thereto assenting—
that with some better luck
The Hunnish knights might venture.
Full twenty thousand men
Were seen before him standing:
to battle must they, then.
2084
Thereon with furious onslaught
the strangers were attack’d.
And Dankwart, Hagen’s brother,
a man right swift to act,
Sprang from his lords, the foemen
before the door to rout;—
It seem’d that he must perish,
but safely gat he out.
2085
The deadly struggle lasted
till stay’d it was by night.
As well became good heroes,
the guests maintain’d the fight
Against the men of Etzel
one whole long summer day.
And ah, what gallant warriors
about them dying lay!
2086
’Twas at the summer solstice
this slaughter great befell,
Whereby the Dame Kriemhilda
avenged her heartache well
Upon her nearest kinsfolk
and many another wight.
From that time royal Etzel
knew nevermore delight.
2087
The day for them was ended
in great anxiety.
It seem’d to them ’twere better
a speedy death to die,
Than linger there, awaiting
some dread, unheard-of pain.
Therefore the haughty warriors
to beg a truce were fain.
2088
The king, by word, besought they
to come unto them there.
These heroes, blood-bespatter’d
and soil’d with armour-wear,
From out the palace follow’d
the noble kings all three;
They knew not to what hearer
to plead their misery.
2089
Both Etzel and Kriemhilda
came thither them before.
The land was their possession:
their host grew more and more.
The king spake to the strangers:
“Say, what will ye of me?
A truce ye would be granted?
Such thing can hardly be
2090
“After such insult grievous
as ye on me have cast,
(Nor shall ye profit by it
if life for me should last)
My child, that ye have slain me,
and many of my kin.
Peace and atonement, surely,
ye cannot hope to win!”
2091
Whereto made answer Gunther:
“By dire need we were led.
My people all were lying
before thy heroes dead
Within the hostel yonder:
what pretext did I lend?
To thee in good faith came I,
I thought thou wert my friend.”
2092
Then Giselher, the youngest
of the Burgundian three:
“Ye chiefs,” cried he, “of Etzel,
who living yet may be,
How have I wrong’d ye, warriors?
In what am I to blame?
Unto this country riding
in kindly mood I came.”
2093
They answer’d: “Every city
throughout the land with woe
Is fill’d through this thy kindness.
Ay, glad were we, I trow,
If thou hadst ne’er come hither
from Worms beyond the Rhine.
The country thou hast orphan’d,
with brothers twain of thine.”
2094
Thereon, in wrathful humour,
Gunther the warrior spake:
“If of this bitter hatred
an ending ye would make
With us, unhappy strangers,
’twere better for us both!
’Tis for no fault on our part
what Etzel to us doth.”
2095
Then to the guests the host said:
“Your troubles and my own
Are nowise to be liken’d.
The burden on me thrown
Of shame and loss together
which I have had to bear;—
For this not one among you
hence with his life shall fare.”
2096
Thereon the stalwart Gernot
made answer to the king:
“So then may God incline you
to do a friendly thing!
An ye must slay us strangers,
then let us come to you
From here unto the open.
Thus honour bids you do.
2097
“Whate’er to us may happen,
be it done out of hand!
So many whole men have ye
who us will dare withstand,
That none of us, strife-weary,
alive they’ll let away.
For how long are we warriors
in this distress to stay?”
2098
The warriors of Etzel
would have agreed thereto
That they outside the palace
be granted leave to go.
But when Kriemhilda heard it,
sorely aggrieved was she.
Then for the outcast strangers
no hope of peace could be.
2099
“Nay, nay, ye Hunnish warriors,
the thing ye have in thought—
In good faith I advise ye—
see that ye do it not.
These murder-wreaking fellows
let not without the hall,
Else shall right deadly sorrows
upon your kinsmen fall.
2100
“Though not another living
save Uté’s sons there were—
These same, my noble brothers—
and they but to the air
Came out to cool their hauberks,
your hope were all forlorn;—
More valiant warriors never
into this world were born.”
2101
Then Giselher, the youngest,
said: “Fairest sister mine,
Right ill I did to trust you,
when from beyond the Rhine
Unto this land thou bad’st me
into this direful strait.
How have I from the Hunsfolk
deserved this cruel fate?
2102
“To thee I e’er was faithful,
I never did thee hurt.
And on the understanding
I hither rode to court
That thou, most noble sister,
wert well-disposed to me.
Be merciful towards us:
not elsewise can it be!”
2103
“I cannot show you mercy;
unmerciful am I.
For me hath Tronian Hagen
wrought so much misery
It may not be atoned for
as long as I have life.
Ye all must pay the forfeit;”
so answer’d Etzel’s wife.
2104
“Yet will ye Hagen only
to me as hostage give,
I will not say for certain
I may not let you live—
Seeing ye are my brothers
and of one mother bred;—
Then with these chiefs assembled
I may of pardon rede.”
2105
“Now God in Heaven forefend it!”
Gernot in answer said:
“Were there a thousand of us,
we sooner all were dead—
Though of thy kith and kindred—
ere we gave up to thee
A single man as hostage:
nay, that can never be.”
2106
“Then are we doom’d to perish!”
made answer Giselher;
“Yet no one shall deprive us
of any knightly gear.
Here, as before, abide we,
would any us assail,
For ne’er to any comrade
did I in fealty fail.”
2107
Then spake the gallant Dankwart
(by him ’twas meetly done):
“In sooth my brother Hagen
standeth not yet alone!
They who a truce deny us
may yet have cause to rue;
Of that we’ll make you certain—
take ye my word as true!”
2108
The queen spake to her warriors:
“Ye men of courage high,
Go closer to the stairway,
avenge mine injury!
Then will I be your debtor,
as I by all means should.
I would requite on Hagen
his overweening mood.
2109
“Let no man leave the palace,
I charge ye above all;
I will, at the four corners,
have fire set to the hall:
So all the wrongs I’ve suffer’d
right well avenged shall be.”
The warriors of Etzel
were ready speedily.
2110
Those that without were standing
they drave the hall within
By smiting and by shooting;
and fearful was the din.
Yet never would the princes
their faithful men forsake;
Their fealty to each other
could neither of them break.
2111
Then Etzel’s wife gave bidding
to set alight the hall.
And so with fire were tortured
those warriors’ bodies all.
Caught by the wind, the palace
was presently aflame;
I ween that people never
to such dire anguish came.
2112
“Oh, woe upon this horror!”
cried many a one inside:
“For us it had been better
had we in battle died.
May God have pity on us!
lost evermore are we!
On us the queen her anger
now wreaks infernally.”
2113
Quoth one within the palace:
“Needs must we all lie dead!
What profits us the greeting
that from the king we had?
The burning heat so sorely
with thirst doth torture me,
I trow that in this torment
my life will quickly flee.”
2114
Then Hagen spake, of Tronjé:
“Ye noble knights and good,
Whoe’er by thirst is troubled
may quench it here with blood.
In heat like this ’tis better
than wine of any kind,
And at this time, moreover,
no better may ye find.”
2115
So went one of the warriors
to where a corpse he found:
He knelt to where the wound was,
his helmet he unbound,
And then he fell to drinking
the oozing stream of blood;
Unused as he was to it,
he thought it passing good.
2116
“Requite thee God, Sir Hagen,”
that man so weary spake,
“Seeing that thou hast taught me
so well my thirst to slake!
A better wine right seldom
hath been pour’d out for me.
Live I for some while longer,
I’ll aye be bound to thee.”
2117
The rest being told about it,
and how he found it good,
Then were there many others
who also drank the blood.
Thereby each one among them
began to gain new life—
In dear ones it was paid for
by many a goodly wife.
2118
Within the hall about them
the sparks fell thick around,
Upon their shields they caught them
and turn’d them to the ground.
The fire and smoke together
distress’d them terribly.
I trow that heroes never
felt greater misery.
2119
Then Tronian Hagen shouted:
“Stand closer to the wall!
Let not the burning embers
upon your helm-bands fall,
But in the blood more deeply
trample them with your feet:
This feast the queen hath made us
is but a sorry treat!”
2120
In such distressful doings
the night to ending wore,
And still the gallant minstrel
kept watch the house before
With Hagen his companion;
upon their shields they leant,
From Etzel’s folk awaiting
some further detriment.
2121
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“Now go we to the hall:
So shall the Huns imagine
that each of us and all
Have perish’d in this torture
that hath on us been done;
Yet shall they see us meet them,
in battle, everyone.”
2122
Then Giselher, the youngest
of the Burgundians, spake:
“A cool wind is arising,
I trow the day will break.
Now grant us, God of Heaven,
on better times to fall!
For us my sister Kriemhild
hath made ill festival.”
2123
Then spake there yet another:
“The dawning I can see;
And since for us naught better
is ever like to be,
Do on your armour, heroes;
see to your safety all;—
King Etzel’s wife, I doubt not,
will quickly on us fall.”
2124
The host might well imagine
that all the guests were slain
By dint of all their labours,
or by the fiery pain;
Yet still of them were living
six hundred gallant wights,
Than whom no king whatever
had any better knights.
2125
They who the strangers guarded
had fail’d not to espy
That still the guests were living,
in spite of injury
And pains that had befallen
the lords and liegemen too;
Quite sound they saw them pacing
the chamber to and fro.
2126
’Twas told unto Kriemhilda
that they were safe and well.
Whereto the queen made answer:
“It ne’er were possible
That through the fiery torment
any of them have stay’d!
I’d rather take for granted
that all of them lie dead.”
2127
The princes and their liegemen
were fain enough to live,
Had anyone been willing
mercy to them to give.
None could they find of any
within the Hunnish land!
So to avenge their dying
they sought with willing hand.
2128
Towards the dawn of morning,
they had, for greeting fair,
A dire assault of battle:
in straits the heroes were.
Though thickly all amongst them
stout javelins were thrown,
The brave and noble warriors
like true knights held their own.
2129
The zeal of Etzel’s people
was quicken’d by desire,
That they from Queen Kriemhilda
might earn the promised hire;
Moreover they were eager
to do the king’s command.
And so no few among them
found speedy death at hand.
2130
Of promising and giving
might wondrous tales be told.
She bade her folk on bucklers
to bring the ruddy gold;
She gave to all who craved it
and would accept her fee.
Ay! ne’er was greater guerdon
spent for an enemy.
2131
A mighty force of warriors
came in their panoply.
To them cried gallant Volker:
“Here waiting still are we!
I ne’er saw knights more gladly
go forth to face the foe
Than these who the king’s bounty
have taken, for our woe.”
2132
Then many of them shouted:
“Come nigh, ye heroes, pray,
That we may have our ending—
ay, come without delay!
Here none there are remaining
but have been doom’d to die!”
With shafts one saw their bucklers
all bristling speedily.
2133
What have I more to tell you?
A good twelve hundred men
Made onset sore upon them,
again and yet again.
The strangers cool’d their fury
by wounding many a one—
No truce could be between them;
one saw the life blood run
2134
From wounds of deadly deepness;
and many were there slain;
And every man among them
one heard for friends complain.
The mighty king and noble
lost all his bravest there,
For whom their loving kinsfolk
sore sorrow had to bear.
Adventure XXXVII
How the Margrave Rüdeger Was Slain
2135
The strangers, until morning,
right gallantly had done.
By then Gotlinda’s husband
unto the court had gone,
And, looking round on all sides,
he saw such horrors there
As moved to inward weeping
true-hearted Rüdeger.
2136
“Woe’s me,” then said the warrior,
“that e’er I saw the day!
To think that none availeth
this misery to stay!
Though peace would I make gladly,
the king will ne’er agree,
For more and more he dwelleth
upon his injury.”
2137
Good Rüdeger inquiring
straightway to Dietrich sent,
If they might make between them
the noble king relent.
But he of Bern made answer:
“Who could avail thereto?
King Etzel wills that no one
should come betwixt the two.”
2138
Now by a Hunnish warrior
Sir Rüdeger was seen
With eyes bedimm’d with weeping,
as they for long had been.
Unto the queen then spake he:
“Now look how standeth he—
The man who hath with Etzel
the most authority,
2139
“And who hath at his service
the people and the land.
How many a castle is there
in Rüdeger’s command,
Of which, through the king’s bounty,
so many he may own!
Yet he throughout this struggle
no worthy stroke hath done.
2140
“Methinks he little recketh
if things go well or ill,
As long as he hath all things
according to his will.
’Tis said that he is braver
than other men mote be:
But that, in all this trouble,
hath been full hard to see.”
2141
The warrior true-hearted,
with downcast mood and grim,
Gave heed unto the speaker.
The hero look’d on him,
And thought: “This shalt thou pay for!
Thou say’st I am afraid?
Thou hast at court thy story
somewhat too loudly said.”
2142
His fists to clench began he,
and at him straight he ran,
And smote to such good purpose
upon that Hunnish man
That lifeless on the instant
him at his feet he laid.
But thus King Etzel’s troubles
were all the greater made.
2143
“Away with thee, base scoundrel!”
thereon said Rüdeger;
“Of trouble and of sorrow
I have enough to bear!
If I refrain from fighting,
why tauntest me for that?
In sooth I have good reason
to bear the strangers hate,
2144
“And all that strength avail’d me
I had against them wrought,
Were’t not that I the warriors
myself have hither brought.
’Twas I, in sooth, who led them
into my master’s land:
I cannot raise against them,
therefore, my luckless hand.”
2145
Then answer to the margrave
the great King Etzel made:
“O Rüdeger most noble,
how hast thou lent us aid!
So many dead already
we in the land must own,
No more of them were needed!
much evil hast thou done.”
2146
The noble knight made answer:
“The fellow made me wroth
By casting up against me
the wealth and honour both
That by thy hands so freely
have been bestow’d on me:
The liar got his guerdon
a whit unluckily.”
2147
Now came the queen unto them,
who eke had plainly seen
What, through the hero’s anger,
the Hun’s reward had been.
Beyond all bounds complain’d she;
tears from her eyes she shed.
To Rüdeger thus spake she:
“How have we merited
2148
“That you the king’s misfortune
and mine make all the more?
At all times, noble Rüdeger,
you promised heretofore
That you would in our service
risk honour and eke life.
I’ve heard the knights award you
the meed in many a strife.
2149
“The goodwill that you pledged me
to you I will recall
When me you urged on Etzel,
O knight excelling all,
To wit, that you would serve me
till one of us was dead;
And ne’er had I, poor woman,
thereof such desperate need.
2150
“In that thou speak’st not falsely;
I pledged thee, noble dame,
That I for thee would venture
my life and my fair fame.
To lose my soul, however,
that sware I not at all:
I brought these high-born princes
unto this festival!”
2151
“O Rüdeger,” she answer’d,
“thy steadfast loyalty
And eke thine oath forget not,
that thou mine injury
Wouldst cease not to avenge me,
and all my trouble sore.”
Then said to her the margrave:
“I ne’er have fail’d before.”
2152
Then likewise mighty Etzel
to supplicate began,
And on their knees before him
they two besought the man.
Then seem’d the noble margrave
sorely discomfited.
The ever faithful warrior
right sorrowfully said:
2153
“Now God have pity on me,
that I have lived for this!
Henceforward all mine honour
I must for aye dismiss—
My truth and noble breeding
that erst from God I got!
Woe on me, God in Heaven,
that death hath saved me not!
2154
“Whichever side I part from
to take the other one,
I shall have acted basely
and grievous ill have done;
But if from both I sever,
on all sides blame I have:
May He vouchsafe to guide me
Who life unto me gave.”
2155
Yet still they urged him straitly,
the king and eke his wife.
Thence came it many a warrior
ere long must lose his life
By Rüdeger’s achieving;
till eke that hero fell.
Now of his direful doing
I must the story tell.
2156
He knew how this must evil
and fearful sorrow bring,
And liefer would he therefore
denial to the king,
And eke the queen, have given:
full sorely fear’d he that
If e’er a guest he slaughter’d,
the world would bear him hate.
2157
Unto the king then spake he—
that man of spirit bold:
“Lord king, take back whatever
from thee I have and hold,
Both land and burghs: with neither
will I have aught to do,
But on my feet departing,
will into exile go.”
2158
Then spake the royal Etzel:
“Who then will succour me?
The land as well as castles
all will I give to thee,
If thou upon my foemen
avenge me, Rüdeger.
Thou’lt be a mighty sovran,
of Etzel nigh the peer.”
2159
But Rüdeger made answer:
“How could I this essay?
At home within my dwelling
I bade them come and stay;
Of drink and meat I offer’d
to them in kindly wise,
And gave them gifts: how can I
now death for them devise?
2160
“The folk belike are thinking
that I am cowardly!
My services in nothing
to them did I deny—
Or to the noble princes,
or any of their men—
That we are knit in friendship
repenteth me amain.
2161
“I gave away my daughter
to Giselher the thane,
In all the world she could not
have look’d for better gain
In honour or good breeding,
in truth or worldly gear;
I ne’er saw prince so youthful
in virtuous mind his peer.”
2162
But yet again spake Kriemhild:
“Right noble Rüdeger,
Now let our grievous trouble
for both your pity stir,
For me and the king also;
and bear ye well in mind
That never host was fated
such baleful guests to find.”
2163
Then to the noble lady
the margrave answer made:
“To-day, with life, must ransom
by Rüdeger be paid
For what to me of kindness
thou and my lord have shown:
For that cause I must perish—
and it must now be done.
2164
“This very day, well know I,
my castles and my land
Must, ownerless, fall to you,
through what ye now command.
My wife and child commend I
unto your gracious care,
And eke the hapless people
that at Bechlaren are.”
2165
“Now Rüdeger, God bless thee!”
the king in answer said;
He and the queen together
exceeding glad were made:
“Right well unto thy people
our care we both will give,
Though if good luck be with me
I trust thou yet mayst live.”
2166
And so upon the venture
body and soul he cast;
Whereon the wife of Etzel
began to weep at last.
Said he: “What I have promised
I must to you fulfil;—
Woe for my friends, whose foeman
I am against my will.”
2167
Then from the king one saw him
depart in mournful mood.
And to his warriors turning,
who close beside him stood,
He spake: “To don your armour
’tis time, my liegemen all,
On yonder brave Burgundians,
alas! I needs must fall.”
2168
They bade their folk then hasten
to where their arms were found—
Haply it were a helmet,
or else a buckler round—
Whatever it was they wanted,
their servants brought the same
Ere long the baleful tidings
to the proud exiles came.
2169
So Rüdeger in armour
with men five hundred went,
Besides a dozen warriors
who help unto him lent.
These would the meed of valour
win in the stormy fray;—
They had but little warning
that death so near them lay.
2170
Then Rüdeger in helmet
one saw march on before;
Keen-edged were all the weapons
the margrave’s liegemen bore
And broad the shining bucklers
upon their arms as well.
’Twas all seen by the fiddler:
sore ruth upon him fell.
2171
Young Giselher beheld, too,
the father of his bride
With fast-bound helmet marching.
That this could aught betide
Save what was good and friendly,
how could he then forbode.
The noble prince was therefore
exceeding glad of mood.
2172
“Now suchlike friends be welcome,”
said Giselher the thane,
“Which we upon our journey
have had the luck to gain.
Of my betrothèd lady
we’ll profit here right well:
I’m glad, upon my honour,
this plighting e’er befell.”
2173
“I know not what doth cheer you,”
the minstrel answer made:
“When saw you e’er for friendship
so many knights array’d,
With fasten’d helmets marching,
and bearing sword in hand?
By us will Rüdeger pay for
his castles and his land.”
2174
E’en as the fiddle-player
of speaking made an end,
One saw the noble Rüdeger
before the palace wend.
His goodly shield he lower’d
and set before his feet:
He could not offer service,
his friends he might not greet.
2175
Then cried the noble margrave
to those within the hall:
“Be on your guard, I warn you,
ye valiant Niblungs all!
Ye should have had my succour,
now must ye ransom me;
Once were we friends; now will I
be from the troth-pledge free.”
2176
They shudder’d at these tidings,
those sorely troubled men;
For them but little comfort
there was therefrom to gain,
Since he would fight against them
whom they had held so dear!
From foes they had already
had mickle ills to bear.
2177
“Now grant it, God in Heaven,”
the warrior Gunther said;
“That you will let your pity
be movèd to our aid,
And that abounding honour
which hope unto us gave;
Much liefer would I trust you
thus never to behave.”
2178
“I can in nowise help it,”
the brave man said thereto;
“In battle I must meet you,
since so I swore to do.
Now guard yourselves, bold heroes,
as ye your lives hold dear:
From me the wife of Etzel
would no refusal hear.”
2179
“Too late dost thou forswear us,”
the great king answer made;
“Thou, Rüdeger most noble,
by God shalt be repaid
For all the love and fealty
that thou to us hast shown—
If thou wilt in thy kindness
still to the end go on.
2180
“And we’ll be aye beholden,
for all that thou didst give,
Myself and eke my kinsfolk,
if thou’lt but let us live;
Those precious gifts thou gavest,
what time, in good faith, here
To Etzel’s land thou ledst us:
think of it, Rüdeger!”
2181
“How gladly would I do it,”
said Rüdeger the thane;
“As willingly at this time
as ever I was fain
My gifts in full abundance
upon you to bestow;
No blame should I thereover
e’er need to undergo.”
2182
“Then have thy way,” said Gernot,
“O noble Rüdeger!
For never yet to strangers
a welcome kindlier
By any host was bidden
than thou to us didst give:
Of that thou hast the profit
if we should longer live.”
2183
“Would God, most noble Gernot,”
said Rüdeger again,
“That ye were back in Rhineland,
and I myself were slain
With some degree of honour—
since I with you must fight!
From friends have heroes never
suffer’d such foul despite.”
2184
“Now God reward thee, Rüdeger,”
spake Gernot in reply,
“For those rich gifts thou gavest:
I grieve that thou shouldst die.
If with thee there must perish
a mind so virtuous too;—
Here carry I the weapon
thou gavest me, hero true!
2185
“And never hath it fail’d me
in all this struggle dread,
And many a knight hath fallen,
beneath its edges, dead.
Strong is it and well-temper’d,
a good and handsome blade;
I ween a gift so worthy
by knight will ne’er be made.
2186
“And should we not persuade thee
to come unto our side,
If friends of mine thou slayest
who still within abide,
With thine own sword I’ll smite thee
and take away thy life:
Thee, Rüdeger, I pity,
and eke thy noble wife.”
2187
“Now would to God, Sir Gernot,
that thus it e’en might be,
That all your will and purpose
might be fulfill’d on me,
Whereby your kinsmen longer
might yet enjoy their life!
Ay! gladly would I trust you
with daughter and with wife.”
2188
Then spake the young Burgundian,
the child of Uté fair:
“Why do you thus, Sir Rüdeger?
All these who with me are
To you are well-disposèd;
an evil course you take;
Your daughter fair too early
a widow you will make.
2189
“If you and your retainers
in strife contend with me,
How grievously unfriendly
will that appear to be!
In that beyond all others
my faith in you I laid—
In such wise that your daughter
my wife I would have made.”
2190
“Unto your pledge be faithful,
O prince of noble race,”
Said Rüdeger, “if haply
God send you from this place;
Suffer not that the maiden
for me atonement make;
Be pitiful towards her,
for your own virtue’s sake.”
2191
“That would I do right gladly,”
young Giselher replied:
“But these my high-born kinsmen
who still are here inside,
If they at your hands perish,
the friendship firmly knit
With you and eke your daughter
by me must be acquit.”
2192
“Then God have mercy on us!”
the gallant warrior spake.
Thereon they raised their bucklers,
as though a way to make,
By force, unto the strangers
within Kriemhilda’s hall.
Then loudly from the stairway
was Hagen heard to call:
2193
“Now for a while yet tarry,
most noble Rüdeger;”
Such were the words of Hagen:
“we would again confer—
Myself and eke my masters—
forced by necessity:
How will it profit Etzel
if we poor exiles die?
2194
“I am in grievous trouble,”
yet Hagen said, “the shield
That Lady Gotelinda
gave me as mine to wield,
The Huns for me have batter’d
and hack’d it out of hand:
In friendliness I brought it
unto King Etzel’s land.
2195
“If so be God in heaven
would grant me of His grace
To hold as good a buckler
once more before my face,
As that which thou dost handle,
right noble Rüdeger,
No longer in the combat
need I a hauberk wear.”
2196
“Right gladly would I serve thee
as touching this my shield,
Durst I make thee the offer
in spite of Dame Kriemhild.
But do thou take it, Hagen,
and bear it on thine hand;
Ay! what if thou shouldst bring it
to thy Burgundian land!”
2197
When he to give the buckler
so readily agreed,
Then were there eyes in plenty
that with hot tears were red.
Of gifts it was the latest
that unto warrior e’er
By Rüdeger was given,
the lord of Bechelar.
2198
How fierce soe’er was Hagen,
however hard in mood,
Yet stirr’d that gift his pity,
with which the warrior good,
So nigh to his last moments,
had freely him endow’d;
And with him fell to weeping
full many a chieftain proud.
2199
“Now God in Heaven reward thee,
most noble Rüdeger;
The like of thee will never
be met with anywhere,
Who unto exiled warriors
so royally dost give:
God grant that all thy virtue
for evermore may live.”
2200
“Woe’s me for this betiding!”
said Hagen yet again:
“We’ve had to bear already
so great a load of pain,
Must we with friends be striving?
Now God our refuge be!”
Then made the margrave answer:
“It grieves me bitterly.”
2201
“Your gift I’ll now requite you,
most noble Rüdeger—
Howe’er these high-born warriors
themselves towards you bear—
To wit that here in battle
you ne’er shall feel my hand,
Though all by you should perish
of the Burgundian land.”
2202
In courtly wise he bent him,
the worthy Rüdeger;
On all sides they were weeping
that such heart-sorrows were
By no one to be mended:—
a dread necessity!
The father of all virtues
in Rüdeger would die.
2203
Then from the house-door speaking
the minstrel Volker said:
“Since my companion Hagen
a truce with you has made,
To you I also promise
safe-conduct from my hand;
For well have you deserved it
since came we to the land.
2204
“You must, most noble margrave,
be messenger of mine.
These ruddy golden armlets
gave me the margravine,
That I should surely wear them
here at the revelry:
You must yourself behold them
and witness bear for me.”
2205
“Would God in Heaven allow it,”
then answer’d Rüdeger,
“The margravine should give you
still more of such to wear!
Unto my wife your message
right gladly will I give—
Thereof be ye not doubtful—
if I to see her live.”
2206
And even whilst he promised,
his buckler Rüdeger
Raised: and in mood of madness
no longer could forbear,
But rush’d upon the strangers—
a very warrior now;
And fast the mighty margrave
dealt round him many a blow.
2207
Aloof together standing
Volker and Hagen stay’d,
According to the promise
the warriors twain had made.
Yet more, as gallant, found he
waiting beside the door;
Whence Rüdeger the battle
began with trouble sore.
2208
With murderous intention
he was allow’d therein
By Gunther and by Gernot,
who heroes should have been.
But Giselher aside stood,
so great his sorrows were;—
For life he hoped, and therefore
avoided Rüdeger.
2209
Anon the margrave’s liegemen
rush’d forth upon the foe;
Like warriors true one saw them
after their leader go;
They bore their keen-edged weapons
ready in hand to wield,
And many a helm they shatter’d
and many a noble shield.
2210
Many the swift strokes also
the weary warriors spent
On him of Bechelaren,
that straight and surely went
Right through the bright mail armour,
nigh to the very life;
And glorious deeds of daring
achieved they in that strife.
2211
When Rüdeger’s noble comrades
within had made their way,
Volker along with Hagen
rush’d swiftly to the fray:
They gave to no one quarter,
save to that single man.
The blood through helmets, shatter’d
by hands of either, ran.
2212
How grimly in that chamber
the clang of swords uprose,
And many of the shield-plates
sprang off beneath their blows;
The jewels hack’d from off them
fell on the bloody floor.
In such grim humour fought they
as might be never more.
2213
The lord of Bechelaren
went up and down the hall,
As one who might in battle
by strength accomplish all.
By Rüdeger’s achievements
that day it might be told
He was indeed a warrior,
right praiseworthy and bold.
2214
Here also stood those warriors
Gunther and Gernot too,
Who in the stress of battle
full many a hero slew;
And Giselher and Dankwart—
the twain reck’d not for aught—
And so full many a warrior
unto his last day brought.
2215
Well Rüdeger bore witness
that he was strong enow,
And brave, with proven armour;
what heroes laid he low!
’Twas seen by a Burgundian:
wrath strove within him deep.
On Rüdeger the noble
then death began to creep.
2216
Stout Gernot ’twas, who loudly
the hero challenged then.
He cried unto the margrave:
“Wilt thou of all my men
Not one unscathèd leave me,
most noble Rüdeger?
It moves me beyond measure;
the sight I cannot bear.
2217
“Now lo! the gift you gave me
to your own ruin tends,
Since you have taken from me
so many of my friends.
Now turn towards me hither,
thou noble, gallant man,
I’ll make your gift avail me
with all the skill I can.”
2218
Or ever that the margrave
had won his way to him,
Mail coats that erst were shining
must needs be spoilt and dim.
Then either at the other,
thirsting for honour, ran;
And each to guard his body
from deadly wounds began.
2219
Yet smote their swords so keenly,
against them all was vain.
And then was Gernot stricken
by Rüdeger the thane
Athwart his flint-like helmet,
till downward flow’d the blood;
All in a trice repaid him
that gallant knight and good.
2220
Aloft the gift of Rüdeger
in hand he swung: and though
His own wound, too, was deadly,
he dealt on him a blow
Right through his stalwart buckler
unto his helmet’s slot.
The fair Gotlinda’s husband
fell dead upon the spot.
2221
In sooth a gift so precious
was worse requited ne’er;
The two fell slain together,
Gernot and Rüdeger,
Like-fated in the combat,
each by the other’s stroke.
When this great loss to Hagen
was known, his wrath outbroke.
2222
Thus spake the Tronian hero:
“In evil plight are we!
In these two have we suffer’d
so great an injury
As ne’er can be o’ertided
by peoples or by lands;
Now hold we Rüdeger’s chieftains
as bail in luckless hands.”
2223
“Woe on me for my brother,
who here in death doth lie!
How cometh, every moment,
some tale of misery!
And I must mourn for ever
the noble Rüdeger:
The loss to me is double,
and grievous ’tis to bear.”
2224
So Giselher, beholding
his lady’s father dead:—
And they who still were living
a grievous reckoning paid,
Death fell upon them sorely
seeking to take his own;
Of them from Bechelaren
there lived ere long not one.
2225
Now Giselher and Gunther
and with them Hagen too,
Dankwart and Volker also—
all warriors good and true—
Came forward all together,
to where the twain were laid:
Then was there by the heroes
great lamentation made.
2226
“Death sorely us despoileth,”
spake the lad Giselher:
“But make an end of weeping,
and get we to the air
To cool our mail-clad bodies,
worn as we are with strife;
Here God, I ween, will grant us
but scanty spell of life.”
2227
Some sitting, others leaning,
one saw there many a thane.
They once again were idle:
and round about them, slain,
Lay Rüdeger’s companions.
The uproar all was laid.
So long the silence lasted,
that Etzel grew afraid.
2228
“Woe on me for such service!”
then spake the royal wife:
“These folk are not so trusty
that on our foeman’s life
Shall vengeance due be taken
by Rüdeger’s command:
He means to take them safely
back to Burgundian land.
2229
“What boots it us, King Etzel,
that we with him and his
Have shared whate’er he wanted?
The chief hath done amiss:
He who should wreak our vengeance,
doth wish a peace to gain.”
Thereunto answer’d Volker,
the all-accomplish’d thane:
2230
“Not so, alas! the story,
most noble queen, I rede;
And, dare I charge with falsehood
a dame so nobly bred,
Thee, devilishly lying
of Rüdeger, I heard;
For he and his companions
from peace have sorely err’d.
2231
“That which the king commanded
he did so zealously,
That he and all his people
dead in yon chamber lie.
Now cast about, Kriemhilda,
on errands whom to send!
For Rüdeger the hero
hath served thee to the end.
2232
“And wilt thou not believe me,
see it thou shalt anon!”
And to her heartfelt sorrow
so was it straightway done:
They bore the mangled hero
before the king and queen.
The thanes of Etzel never
so sad a sight had seen.
2233
When they beheld the margrave
thus borne before them dead,
No penman could have written,
nor elsewise could be said,
How manifold the mourning
of women and of men,
Who one and all bore witness
unto their heartfelt pain.
2234
The sorrowing of Etzel
so great was, that the noise
Was even as a lion’s—
the mighty king his voice
So lifted in his anguish:
eke mourn’d his wife no less:
Good Rüdeger bewail’d they
with utmost bitterness.
Adventure XXXVIII
How Lord Dietrich’s Warriors All Were Slain
2235
So great a sound of mourning
on every side was heard,
From palace walls and turrets
the echoes all were stirr’d.
By one of Dietrich’s liegemen
of Bern ’twas heard as well;
How swiftly then he started
the direful news to tell.
2236
Unto the prince then spake he:
“Hearken, my Lord Dietrich,
As long as I’ve been living,
ne’er have I heard the like
Of such unearthly wailing
as I have heard but now:
Some harm unto King Etzel
himself hath come, I trow.
2237
“How else would all the people
be in distress so dread?
The king, or may be Kriemhild,
must one of them be dead—
Slain by those daring strangers,
who bore them enmity:
And many goodly warriors
are wailing bitterly.”
2238
Then spake of Bern the hero:
“My trusty lieges dear,
Now be ye not too hasty!
what hath befallen here
Was wrought by homeless warriors,
by dire distresses driven;
And let them use the freedom
that I to them have given.”
2239
Then spake the gallant Wolfhart:
“I will myself be gone
And ask about the matter,
what ’tis that they have done.
And then I will report it
to you, my master dear,
When yonder I discover
what mean the cries we hear.”
2240
Thereon Lord Dietrich answer’d:
“When one has wrath to face,
Full oft, at ill-timed questions,
’tis found to be the case
That warriors too swiftly
are apt offence to take:
In truth I will not, Wolfhart,
that you the quest should make.”
2241
Thereon he summon’d Helfrich
right speedily to go;
And from the men of Etzel
he bade him get to know—
Or even from the strangers—
what doings there had been;
For ne’er such great lamenting
of people was there seen.
2242
The envoy made inquiry:
“What hath there here been done?”
Then answer’d one among them:
“Now is for ever gone
All that we had of pleasure
in this Hungarian land!—
Here Rüdeger lies slaughter’d
by the Burgundians’ hand.
2243
“Of those who enter’d with him
not one came out again.”
Then verily to Helfrich
ne’er could be greater pain.
In sooth he ne’er had carried
news so unwillingly:
The messenger to Dietrich
went weeping bitterly.
2244
“What hast thou,” then said Dietrich,
“for us discoverèd?
And wherefore, warrior Helfrich,
thy tears so freely shed?”
“Good cause have I for weeping,”
answer’d the noble thane:
“Good Rüdeger is lying
by the Burgundians slain.”
2245
The knight of Bern made answer:
“God grant that may not be!
That were a fearful vengeance,
and foul fiend’s pleasantry:
Howe’er were such requital
deserved by Rüdeger?
For well am I persuaded
he held the strangers dear.”
2246
Thereto made Wolfhart answer:
“If they this deed have done
It verily shall cost them
the life of everyone!
To us ’twould be disgraceful
if this we were to stand,
For Rüdeger has served us
right often with his hand.”
2247
But Amelung’s chieftain bade them
better inform’d to be.
Meanwhile within his window
right mournfully sat he;
And Hildebrand enjoin’d he
unto the guests to go,
That he whate’er had happen’d
from them might surely know.
2248
That warrior bold in battle,
the ancient Hildebrand,
Nor shield nor any weapon
took with him in his hand;
He to the guests was going
in courtesy alone.
But sore were the upbraidings
made by his sister’s son.
2249
For spake the fiery Wolfhart:
“Wilt thou so simply go?
Then certes some misusage
thou wilt not fail to know!
So, full of grief and trouble,
thou needs must homeward fare:
But if thou takest thy weapons
they each will have a care.”
2250
Then did the ancient gird him
e’en as the stripling bade.
But lo! before he knew it,
in fighting gear array’d,
Were standing Dietrich’s warriors,
with drawn sword everyone.
This thing the hero liked not,
and gladly had forgone.
2251
He asked where they were going.
“Along with you we’ll fare!
Perchance Hagen of Tronjé
so much the less may dare
With mocking speech to meet you—
which well he knows to use.”
When that he heard, the warrior
no longer could refuse.
2252
The gallant Volker saw them
in armour fully dight,
Those knights of Bern come marching,
all Dietrich’s men of might;
Their swords were girt upon them,
they carried shield in hand.
Unto his lords he told it
of the Burgundian land.
2253
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“Yonder I see them go,
The followers of Dietrich—
in semblance of a foe,
With weapons and in helmets:
us mean they to withstand.
I trow for us poor exiles
misfortune is at hand.”
2254
E’en at the self-same moment
came Hildebrand to him,
And at his feet his buckler
he set upon its rim.
The followers of Gunther
to question then he sought:
“Alas! what harm, good heroes,
to you hath Rüdeger wrought?
2255
“Me hath my master Dietrich
sent unto you to say:
‘If any one among you
hath by his hand this day
Laid low the noble margrave—
as we are told by some—
An injury so grievous
we ne’er could overcome.’ ”
2256
Then Hagen spake of Tronjé:
“No lie the tidings are;
Though fain I were to grant you,
for love of Rüdeger,
That they had lied who told you,
and he were still in life:
He must be ever wept for
by man and maid and wife.”
2257
When all knew, of a surety,
that Rüdeger was dead,
The warriors bewail’d him,
as love and fealty bade.
From each of Dietrich’s liegemen
one saw the tears-drops fall
O’er chin and beard descending:
sore was the grief of all.
2258
Then Siegestab outspeaking—
the duke from Bern—said he:
“Forever now is ended
the hospitality
That Rüdeger aye show’d us
after our days of pain.
The Comfort of the exile
lies by you heroes slain.”
2259
Then from among the Amelungs,
the warrior Wolfwin said:
“Were I this day before me
to see my father dead,
Ne’er could I feel more sorrow
than at this stricken life:
Alas! who now will comfort
the worthy margrave’s wife?”
2260
Thereon in mood of anger
the thane Sir Wolfhart cried:
“Who on so many a foray
shall now the warriors guide,
As heretofore the margrave
hath times right often done?
Alas, most noble Rüdeger,
that thou from us art gone!”
2261
There Helferich and Wolfbrand
and Helmot also were,
With all their friends, bewailing
the death of Rüdeger;
And Hildebrand for sobbing
could ask no more of aught.
He spake: “Now do ye, warriors,
that which my lord hath sought,
2262
“Give Rüdeger’s dead body
to us from out the hall,
With whom, in very sorrow,
our joys are ended all;
And let us now requite him
for all that he hath done
For us, in faithful friendship,
and many another one.
2263
“We also here are strangers,
like the thane Rüdeger,
Why do ye keep us waiting?
Let us his body bear
Away, to him our service
e’en after death to give:
Far rather had we done it,
whilst he were yet alive!”
2264
“No service is so worthy,”
then the King Gunther spake,
“As that for a dead comrade
a friend doth undertake,
And steadfast faith I call it,
where’er the same I find.
Ye pay him honour rightly,
to you he hath been kind.”
2265
“How long must we be pleading?”
Wolfhart the warrior said:
“Since our best Consolation
by you is stricken dead,
And we, alas! no longer
the good thereof may have,
So let us take the chieftain
and lay him in his grave.”
2266
Thereto made answer Volker:
“He shall be given by none!
Come to the hall and take him,
here where the thane, fordone,
With deadly wounds disfigured,
lies in the bloody pool:
That were to do your duty
to Rüdeger in full.”
2267
Thereon bold Wolfhart answer’d:
“Sir Minstrel, God doth know
No need have ye to taunt us,
ye’ve done us harm enow.
Durst I offend my master,
you’d be the worse for this,
But we must pass it over,
since strife forbidden us is.”
2268
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“Fear claims too much, I trow,
When all that is forbidden
a man must needs forego;
By me that were not reckon’d
a right good hero’s mood!”
The speech of his companion
seemed unto Hagen good.
2269
“That shall not serve your purpose,”
Wolfhart in answer spake:
“I’ll so untune your fiddle
that you a tale may take,
Along with you, when homewards
unto the Rhine you ride;
I cannot brook with honour
your overweening pride.”
2270
Then spake the fiddle-player:
“If thou a fiddlestring
Of mine untuneful makest,
thy helmet’s glittering
Must speedily be lessen’d
and clouded by my hand,
Howe’er betide my riding
to the Burgundian land.”
2271
He would have sprung upon him,
if he had not been stay’d
By Hildebrand his uncle,
who hands upon him laid:
“In this thy senseless anger
thou wouldst, I trow, go mad,
And so my master’s favour
might’st never more have had.”
2272
“Let go the lion, master!
fierce though he be of mood,
Comes he into my clutches,”
said Volker, warrior good,
“E’en though a world of people
he with his hands hath slain,
I’ll kill him, that the story
he ne’er may tell again.”
2273
By this was sorely quicken’d
the Berners’ angry mood;
And Wolfhart clutch’d his buckler,
a ready knight and good:
E’en Hke a savage lion
in front of them he rush’d,
Whilst following close behind him
his friends the onset push’d.
2274
Yet though he sprang so swiftly,
to reach the palace wall
He could not on the stairway
old Hildebrand forestall,
Who would not that another
first in the fight should be.
Their guerdon from the strangers
they both got presently.
2275
Then quickly upon Hagen
sprang Master Hildebrand:
The clashing of the sword-blades
was heard on either hand;
Their wrath was sorely kindled,
as presently was plain;
A fiery stream was scatter’d
from off their weapons twain.
2276
Yet quickly were they sunder’d
under the stress of fight:
The men of Bern so caused it,
prevailing in their might.
Whereon away from Hagen
betook him Hildebrand;
And needs must gallant Volker
stout Wolfhart’s onset stand.
2277
He smote the fiddle-player
upon his helmet good,
So bravely that the sword-edge
unto the sidebands hew’d;
The fiddler bold repaid him
with all his might and main,
And laid his blows on Wolfhart,
until he reel’d again.
2278
They struck from the mail-armour
of fiery sparks enow;
Their hate for one another
was felt in every blow;
Then came the warrior Wolfwin
of Bern the twain between:
Had he not been a hero
that never could have been.
2279
The warrior Gunther also
gave with unstinting hand
A welcome to the heroes
far-famed of Amelung land;
And Giselher the lordly
made helms that shone before,
On head of many a warrior,
ruddy and wet with gore.
2280
And Dankwart, Hagen’s brother,
a fearsome man was he:
Whatever he, already,
on Etzel’s chivalry
In battle had accomplish’d,
e’en as the wind was naught:
The son of the bold Aldrian
now like a madman fought.
2281
Richart and Gerbart likewise,
Helfrich and eke Wichart,
Who oftentimes in battle
right well had play’d their part,
Now plainly show’d their prowess
to Gunther’s fighting men;
Wolfbrand in combat proudly
was seen to bear him then,
2282
And like a madman raging
fought ancient Hildebrand.
Full many a doughty warrior
then fell by Wolfhart’s hand,
Death-stricken by his sword-blows,
into the pool of blood.
Thus Rüdeger avenged they,
these gallant knights and good.
2283
Then fought the noble Siegstab
as of his might was due;
Ha! and upon his foemen
what goodly helmets too
Were shiver’d in the battle
by Dietrich’s sister’s son;
He could not in the struggle
e’er better work have done.
2284
Thereon the sturdy Volker,
as soon as he beheld
How from the tough mail-armour
the blood in streamlets well’d
At gallant Siegstab’s sword-strokes,
the hero’s wrath arose;
Forward he sprang to meet him:
and so his life to lose
2285
Upon the spot had Siegstab
through that same fiddle-man;
Who forthwith of his cunning
to give such proof began
That by his mighty weapon
quick death must needs ensue.
Old Hildebrand avenged him,
as of his strength was due.
2286
“Woe, for my lord belovèd!”
cried Master Hildebrand,
“Who here in death is lying
stricken by Volker’s hand:
Henceforth this fiddle-player
shall save himself no more!”
Bold Hildebrand was wrathful
as ne’er he was before.
2287
Then smote he so at Volker,
that far to either wall
The bands and clasps in pieces
were strown about the hall,
From helm and eke from buckler
of that same minstrel bold:
And so of sturdy Volker
the ending there was told.
2288
The liegemen then of Dietrich
came thronging to the rout;
They smote till from the hauberks
the links flew far about,
And splinter’d weapons saw one
as high in air they flew;
Hot flowing blood in streamlets
from out the helms they drew.
2289
When Hagen, lord of Tronjé,
saw Volker lying slain,
More grievous was his sorrow
than all the other pain
That in this high foregathering
he had for man or kin.
What vengeance for the hero
did Hagen then begin!
2290
“It shall not long advantage
the old man Hildebrand
That yonder lies my helpmate
slain by the hero’s hand—
The veriest good comrade
that ever yet I had!”
He raised his shield, and forward
he rush’d with hewing blade.
2291
Meanwhile the stalwart Helfrich
had stricken Dankwart low.
To Giselher and Gunther
grievous it was enow
When in the stress of battle
they saw him fall beneath:
With his own hands already
he had avenged his death.
2292
Now all this while did Wolfhart
stride up and down again,
And with his sword unresting
he hew’d at Gunther’s men.
A third time he the journey
had made along the hall,
And many were the warriors
doom’d by his hand to fall.
2293
Then Giselher the lordly
to Wolfhart loudly spake:
“Woe! that so fierce a foeman
’twas e’er my luck to make!
O noble knight and gallant,
now turn thyself to me,
I’ll do my best to end it:
it may no longer be.”
2294
To Giselher, in fighting,
then Wolfhart turn’d him round,
And each upon the other
made many a gaping wound:
With such a mighty onset
against the king he dash’d,
The blood beneath his footsteps
above his head was splash’d.
2295
With swift and deadly sword-strokes
the son of Uté fair
Gave greeting unto Wolfhart,
the gallant hero, there.
How strong the thane soever,
he was not to be saved:
So young a king could never
more boldly have behaved.
2296
He struck a blow at Wolfhart,
cleaving the hauberk good,
And over him and downwards,
gush’d from the wound the blood
Unto the death he wounded
that man of Dietrich’s own;
None but a very warrior
to do the like had known.
2297
As soon as gallant Wolfhart
was of the wound aware,
He let his shield slip downwards;
but higher in the air
A weapon strong he wielded:
it was a keen one too;
Wherewith through helm and hauberk
the hero Giselher slew.
2298
So had they one another
to cruel death fordone,
And then of Dietrich’s lieges
there lived but one alone.
When Hildebrand the ancient
beheld how Wolfhart fell,
I trow, until his ending,
such grief he ne’er could tell.
2299
The men-at-arms of Gunther
were dead now everyone,
As likewise those of Dietrich;
and Hildebrand had gone
Unto the place where Wolfhart
was lying in the blood:
Within his arms he folded
that warrior brave and good.
2300
Fain would he from the chamber
have borne him bodily,
But he was all too weighty,
he e’en must let him lie.
The dying man uplifted
his eyes amid the blood,
And saw well that his kinsman
would help him if he could.
2301
“My well-belovèd uncle,”
the dying one then said,
“At this time it avails not
to give me any aid.
Now ware you well of Hagen!
ay, take my words for good;
For in his heart he nurses
an ever cruel mood.
2302
“If after death my kinsfolk
for me should mourning be,
Unto my next and dearest
I bid you say for me
That they for me must weep not:
need for it is there none,
Here lie I slain in honour,
by kingly hands fordone.
2303
“So throughly here, moreover,
have I avenged my life,
That cause indeed for wailing
hath many a good knight’s wife:
If anyone should ask you
so may you answer plain,
A good five score are lying
whom I myself have slain.”
2304
Meanwhile had Hagen likewise
upon the minstrel thought,
Whom Hildebrand the valiant
unto his end had brought.
Then spake he to the warrior:
“My loss thou shalt requite,
For here thou hast bereft us
of many a goodly knight.”
2305
He struck a blow at Hildebrand,
such that one might have told
The hissing sound of Balmung,
the sword that Hagen bold
From Siegfried’s self had taken
when he that hero slew;
The blow the old man parried:
ay! he was valiant too.
2306
The warrior of Dietrich against
the Tronian knight
His weapon broad uplifted,
that keenly too could smite.
To wound the man of Gunther
yet might he not prevail.
Then once again smote Hagen
through well-wrought coat of mail.
2307
Now when the old Sir Hildebrand
was of the wound aware,
More evil yet he dreaded
from Hagen’s hand to bear.
His shield the man of Dietrich
threw back behind his head,
And, desperately wounded,
the chief from Hagen fled.
2308
Of all the knightly warriors
remain’d there but a pair—
Save Gunther’s self and Hagen
none others living were.
Old Hildebrand all bleeding
in flight had safety sought,
And when he came to Dietrich
a woeful tale he brought.
2309
He saw his master sitting
with visage woe-begone—
The prince was yet more sorry
when he his tale had done;
Upon the bloody hauberk
of Hildebrand look’d he,
And sought of him his tidings
in all anxiety.
2310
“Now tell me, Master Hildebrand,
why are ye in this state,
And reeking with your life-blood?
or who hath done you that?
I ween that in the palace
you with the guests have fought:
So strictly I forbade it
that ye in nowise ought.”
2311
Unto his lord he answer’d:
“ ’Twas Hagen did it all!
He set on me and gave me
this wound within the hall,
E’en as I from the warrior
to turn myself began.
And hither from that devil
barely with life I ran!”
2312
Then he of Bern made answer:
“Ye are but served aright!
Seeing that ye had heard me
swear friendship with the knight,
And then ye break the peace-pledge
granted to him by me:
Would it not ever shame me
your life should forfeit be.”
2313
“Now be ye not so wrathful,
my good Lord Dietrich, pray!
On me and on my kinsfolk
the loss too hard doth weigh.
We purposed from the palace
to carry Rüdeger;
To grant it all unwilling
King Gunther’s liegemen were.”
2314
“Now woe upon such tidings!
is Rüdeger then dead?
This is the greatest sorrow
that e’er I sufferèd.
The noble Gotelinda
is child of aunt of mine.
Ay! woe for the poor orphans
who at Bechlaren pine.”
2315
His death weigh’d sorely on him,
with ruth and sorrow great.
He fell to bitter weeping;
sad was the hero’s strait:
“Woe for my trusty helpmate
who now is lost to me!
Ay! of King Etzel’s liegeman
the like I ne’er shall see.
2316
“Now must ye, Master Hildebrand,
tell me the story true.
Which of the warriors was it
who him so foully slew?”
“That did the stalwart Gernot
by strength of arm,” he said:
“By Rüdeger’s hand the hero
is also lying dead.”
2317
To Hildebrand then spake he:
“Now let my liegemen know
That they must straightway arm them,
for thither will I go;
And bid them bring me hither
my shirt of shining mail.
From the Burgundian heroes
myself I’ll have the tale.”
2318
Then Hildebrand made answer:
“Who shall now go with thee?
None others hast thou living
but what thou here dost see;
I am thine only liegeman;
the others all are dead.”
He shudder’d at these tidings—
in sooth, there was good need,
2319
For never such great sorrow
he in this world had known.
He spake: “And if my liegemen
are truly dead and gone,
Then am I God-forsaken,
I, Dietrich, wretched wight!
Erewhile a noble sovran
and full of power and might.”
2320
“How could such thing have happen’d?”
spake Dietrich once again,
“These far-renownèd heroes—
that all of them are slain
By men with fighting weary,
in sore necessity!
But for mine evil fortune,
death still afar would be.
2321
“Seeing my doom avails not
to ward from me this ill,
Now tell me, of the guest-folk
are any living still?”
Then Master Hildebrand answer’d:
“God knoweth, only twain—
Hagen to wit, and Gunther
the noble king—remain.”
2322
“Dear Wolfhart, woe betide me!
if thou from me art torn,
Too quickly may I rue me
that ever I was born!
And Siegestab and Wolfwin,
and none the less Wolfbrand.
Who now shall help my journey
back to the Amelungs’ land?
2323
“Helfrich the ever gallant,
and have they laid him low?
And Gerebart and Wichart—
how weep for them enow?
Of all my joy and pleasure
the ending is this day:
Fain would I die for sorrow—
alas that no man may!”
Adventure XXXIX
How Gunther and Hagen and Kriemhilda Were Slain
2324
Then for himself Lord Dietrich
sought out a suit to wear,
And Master Hildebrand help’d him
to don his fighting gear.
So sore was the lamenting
made by the stalwart man,
That all the house to echo
with his loud voice began.
2325
But quickly he recover’d
a fitting hero’s mood,
And grimly was his armour
donn’d by that warrior good.
A shield compact right firmly
he carried in his hand;—
Then straightway forth he sallied
with Master Hildebrand.
2326
Spake Hagen, lord of Tronjé:
“I see there, drawing nigh,
The noble warrior Dietrich;
for that great injury
That here hath him befallen,
he will upon us set.
This day ’twill be discover’d
who doth the honours get.
2327
“Ay! to himself Lord Dietrich
of Bern doth think that ne’er
His like, so strong of body
and terrible there were!
And should he for our doings
a reckoning demand,”
So Hagen spake: “against him
I dare right well to stand.”
2328
They heard the words of Hagen—
Dietrich and Hildebrand.
He came to where the warriors
had taken both their stand
Without the house, together,
leaning against the hall.
His goodly shield had Dietrich
upon its rim let fall.
2329
Then Dietrich spake in answer,
grievously sorrowing:
“Why hast thou done in this wise,
O Gunther, mighty king,
To me who am a stranger?
to thee what had I done?
All comfort that was left me
is now for ever gone.
2330
“With that great deed of vengeance
ye were not yet content
When Rüdeger the hero
to bloody death you sent:
Now have ye taken from me
my liegemen everyone;—
Ah! never to your heroes
would I such scathe have done.
2331
“Now of yourselves be mindful,
and of your own distress,
The death of friends and kinsfolk,
your toil and weariness;
Doth it not weigh upon you,
good warriors, heavily?
Alas, the death of Rüdeger
is bitterness to me!
2332
“In this world never happen’d
such woe to anyone.
Ye took but ill account of
my sorrow and your own;
By you of all its pleasures
my life henceforth is shorn;
In truth I cannot ever
my kinsfolk cease to mourn.”
2333
“In sooth,” then answer’d Hagen,
“So guilty are we not;
For verily your heroes
came marching to this spot
Well-arm’d, for some set purpose,
in such large company:
To you methinks the story
was not told truthfully.”
2334
“What else should I believe then?
’twas said by Hildebrand
That when my knights besought you—
the men of Amelung land—
That you would give them Rüdeger
from out the palace-hall,
Naught else but jibes you offer’d
to these bold heroes all.”
2335
Then spake the king of Rhineland:
“They did their wish avow
Hence Rüdeger to carry;
that would I not allow,
To do despite to Etzel,
and not to cross your men:
Till Wolfhart words unhandsome
began to utter then.”
2336
Then answer’d him the hero
of Bern, “So let it be!
Yet Gunther, noble sovran,
now of thy courtesy
Repay me for the sorrow
that of thy doing came,
And make, bold knight, atonement,
that I confirm the same.
2337
“Give up thyself as hostage,
thou and thy liegeman there;
Then I myself will guard ye
with all my greatest care,
Lest any of the Hunfolk
should do ye aught of ill;
In me thou shalt find nothing
save faith and all goodwill.”
2338
But Hagen spake in answer:
“Now God in Heaven forfend
That any pair of warriors
themselves to thee should bend,
Who arm’d as yet so stoutly
here stand before thine eyes,
And still are all unfetter’d
to face their enemies.”
2339
“Beware, Gunther and Hagen,”
then Dietrich answer made,
“How ye refuse my offer!
ye twain on me have laid
So sore a load of sorrow—
on heart and spirit too;
If ye amends will make me,
that may ye cheaply do.
2340
I give you my true promise,
and pledge it with my hand,
That I myself will with you
ride home unto your land;
I’ll guide you in all honour,
or will myself be slain,
And will, the while I serve you,
forget my bitter pain.”
2341
“Now think thereon no longer,”
Hagen in answer bade,
“ ’Twere not a fitting story
about us to be said,
That two such doughty warriors
had bow’d to your demand:
One sees beside you standing
no one save Hildebrand.”
2342
Then upspake Master Hildebrand:
“Sir Hagen, God doth know—
Seeing that one hath offer’d
to make a peace with you—
The hour is nigh when fitly
the offer you might take:
The peace my lord proposes
’twere well for you to make.”
2343
“I’d sooner make atonement,”
in answer Hagen said,
“Ere in such coward fashion
from any place I fled
As thou hast done but lately,
good Master Hildebrand!
Methought against a foeman
thou couldst more boldly stand!”
2344
Old Hildebrand made answer:
“Why taunt’st thou me therefor?
Who sat upon his buckler
the Vaske-rock before,
While friends of his so many
the Spanish Walther slew?
About thyself in plenty
are things that one might shew.”
2345
Then spake the noble Dietrich:
“It fits not heroes good
To rail at one another
as any old wives would.
You, Hildebrand, forbid I
to wrangle any more:
On me, a homeless warrior,
are weighing troubles sore.
2346
“Come let us hear, Sir Hagen,”
to him spake Dietrich then,
“What was it ye were saying,
ye ready warriors twain,
When first ye saw me coming
to you in armour dight?
Ye vow’d that ye against me
would singly stand in fight.”
2347
“That no man will deny you,”
thane Hagen made reply,
“And with some sturdy sword-strokes
here fain am I to try—
Unless the blade of Niblung
within my hand should break:
Wroth am I that you purpose
us two in pledge to take.”
2348
When Dietrich thus had hearken’d
to savage Hagen’s mood,
Quickly his shield uplifted
that gallant thane and good.
How swiftly Hagen toward him
down from the stairway sprang!
The goodly sword of Niblung
loudly on Dietrich rang.
2349
Then well the noble Dietrich
knew that the valiant man
Right ruthless was in humour.
The lord of Bern began
Against this deadly onset
to guard himself aright;
To him well known was Hagen,
that all-accomplish’d knight.
2350
Dread, too, had he of Balmung,
a potent sword enow.
From time to time yet Dietrich
gave back a wily blow,
Until at last, in fighting,
Hagen o’ermaster’d he:
A single wound he dealt him;
’twas deep and long to see.
2351
Bethought him then Lord Dietrich:
“Thou’rt weaken’d by the strife,
I should have little honour
were I to take thy life.
Sooner will I make trial,
if I may thee compel
To be to me a hostage.”
With trouble this befell.
2352
He let his shield fall downwards—
great was his strength of limb,
And Tronian Hagen clasp’d he
close in his arms to him.
And thus was captive taken
by him that gallant man;
Whereat the noble Gunther
sorely to grieve began.
2353
Then Dietrich led forth Hagen,
fast bound, to where her stand
The noble queen had taken;
and gave into her hand
The boldest of all warriors
that ever weapon bare;—
Then had she joy in plenty
for all her bitter care.
2354
For thanks the wife of Etzel
unto the thane bent low:
“In heart and eke in body
for ever blest be thou!
Now hast thou well repaid me
for my unhappy lot;
For this I’ll ever serve thee
if death prevent me not.”
2355
Then answer’d the Lord Dietrich:
“His life thou e’en must spare,
O noble queen! Then haply
thou mayst become aware
How well he will atone for
all he hath done to thee!
He must no whit be worsen’d,
that him in bonds ye see.”
2356
She bade them carry Hagen
to durance vile away,
And there imprison’d straitly
unseen of men he lay.
Gunther the noble sovran
aloud began to cry:
“Where went that chief of Bern? He
hath done me injury.”
2357
Then presently to meet him
the noble Dietrich came.
Great was the might of Gunther,
and well ’twas known to fame.
Nor did he tarry longer;—
before the hall he ran.
From their two weapons’ meeting
a dreadful din began.
2358
Albeit that Lord Dietrich
great fame long time had had,
So sore was Gunther’s anger
he raved like one gone mad;
For deadly foe he held him,
so bitter was his pain:
’Tis reckon’d still a marvel
that Dietrich was not slain.
2359
So strong and full of valour
was either of the twain,
The palace walls and turrets
rang with their blows again.
While on the goodly helmets
with swords they hack’d and hew’d.
Then, verily, King Gunther,
a royal courage shew’d.
2360
Yet he of Bern o’ercame him,
as likewise he had done
To Hagen; through the hauberk
the hero’s blood to run
Was seen, from that sharp weapon
wherewith Sir Dietrich clove.
Yet, weary as was Gunther,
he valiantly strove.
2361
Bound was the noble chieftain
by Dietrich’s hand alone,
Although a king should never
such bonds have undergone.
He thought if he should leave them,
the king and vassal, free,
That all on whom they lighted
by them fordone must be.
2362
Dietrich of Bern then took him
a captive, closely-bound,
And by the hand he led him
where he Kriemhilda found.
At sight of his affliction
her sorrows greatly waned;
She spake: “Be welcome, Gunther,
of the Burgundian land!”
2363
He spake: “I needs must thank thee,
most noble sister mine,
Though I would fain a greeting
more gracious have than thine!
O queen, well do I know thee,
how wrathful is thy mood,
And that for me and Hagen
thou hast no greeting good.”
2364
Of Bern then spake the hero:
“Never, most noble queen,
Knights of such fair demeanour,
your hostages have been
As these, most gracious lady,
whom now to you I give:
See that ye let the strangers
for my sake safely live.”
2365
She vow’d to do it gladly:
so the Lord Dietrich came—
His eyes with tears o’erflowing—
from those two chiefs of fame.
Soon vengeance sore upon them
was wreak’d by Etzel’s wife:
Of both these chosen warriors
she took away the life.
2366
Her evil mood obeying,
apart she made them lie,
That neither on the other
from that time forth set eye,
Until in front of Hagen
her brother’s head she laid.
On both of them Kriemhilda
her vengeance well repaid.
2367
For first the queen betook her
where she might Hagen see:
And spake unto the warrior—
how full of enmity!
“What thou from me hast taken
if thou again wilt give,
Then home thou yet mayst journey
to Burgundy alive.”
2368
But Hagen grim made answer:
“You throw your words away,
Most noble queen, for truly
I’ve sworn, and now I say
The treasure I will show not,
so long as either one
Be living of my masters;—
I’ll yield it up to none.”
2369
“Then will I end the matter!”
so spake the noble wife,
And forthwith bade her liegemen
to take her brother’s life.
They struck his head from off him,
which by the hair she bore
Before the Tronian hero;
then was his grief full sore.
2370
For when, with sorrow stricken,
he saw his master’s head,
Thereon unto Kriemhilda
the warrior spake and said:
“E’en as thou saidst, the matter
thou hast to ending brought,
And likewise all hath happen’d
as I beforehand thought.
2371
“And now the noble sovran
of Burgundy is not,
Nor Giselher the stripling,
and eke the Lord Gernot,
None knoweth of the treasure
save God and me alone:
And unto thee, she-devil,
it never shall be known!”
2372
Said she: “An evil guerdon
dost thou to me award;
Yet in mine own possession
I will have Siegfried’s sword,
Which my belovèd husband,
when last I saw him, bare
That day when, by your doing,
began my heartfelt care.”
2373
She drew it from the scabbard—
he could not hinder her—
And of his life bethought her
to rid that warrior.
With both her hands she swung it,
and smote his head right off:
King Etzel saw her do it,
his grief was sore enough.
2374
The prince cried: “Woe betide me,
lo! now, how here is slain,
And by a woman’s doing,
the very noblest thane
That ever came to battle,
or ever buckler bore!
Albeit I was his foeman
I could not sorrow more!”
2375
Old Hildebrand cried: “Truly
she shall no gainer be
That she hath dared to slay him!
Whate’er befalleth me,
Although myself but lately
to direst straits he brought,
For this brave Tronian’s murder
I’ll yet have vengeance wrought.”
2376
Then Hildebrand right wrathful
upon Kriemhilda leapt,
And at the queen with broadsword
a heavy stroke he swept.
Ay, Hildebrand she dreaded
with sore anxiety.
But what could it avail her
to shriek thus horribly?
2377
The bodies of the slaughter’d
were lying all around;
And there the noble lady
lay mangled on the ground.
Dietrich along with Etzel
fell bitterly to weep;
For kinsmen and for lieges
they mourn’d in sorrow deep.
2378
There mickle pride and honour
in death dishonour’d lay.
The people all were stricken
with pity and dismay.
In sorrowing was ended
the king’s high festival—
As loving ever endeth
in sorrow after all.
2379
I cannot tell you plainly
what later may have been,
Save that in bitter weeping
were knights and ladies seen—
And noble liegemen also—
for friends beloved laid low.
The story now is ended:
this is the Niblungs’ woe.
Endnotes
Colophon
The Nibelungenlied
was written around 1200.
It was translated from Middle High German in 1898 by
Alice Horton.
This ebook was produced for
Standard Ebooks
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Emma Sweeney,
and is based on digital scans from the
Internet Archive.
The cover page is adapted from
Valkyrie,
a painting completed in 1865 by
Peter Nicolai Arbo.
The cover and title pages feature the
League Spartan and Sorts Mill Goudy
typefaces created in 2014 and 2009 by
The League of Moveable Type.
The first edition of this ebook was released on
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