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FALL OF THE NIBELUNGERS, 



OTEBRWISB TBB 



BOOK OF KRIBMHILD: 



Ct)C ^fbdunge ^ot, or Bf&tlung?nlf(1)i* 



WILLIAM NANSON LETTSOM. 



WILLIAMS AS"J) NOE&ATB, 

HENBIETTA STBEET, COVBMT GARDEH: 

JAMES BAIN, 

HATUABKET. 
1850. 

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|(s ;uov.i942 r. 
'•^ OF m\Mi <•', 



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PREFACE. 



Thx poem, wliicli is now robmitted jn an Engtiah dreaa to the 
judgment of the public, is bo little known among ua, that most 
ordinary readers have not so much as heard of it ; even among 
the numerous and increasing class of those who toe acquainted 
vitfa German, fbw pay attention to the ancient literature of 
Germany ; th^ are generally conversant only with the produc- 
tions of the day, or, at furthest, with those of the most celebrated 
modem aul^ors. Some introductory ohservationa, therefore, 
seem demanded from a tranalator by the necessity of tbe case ; 
not that I Gonsider it requisite to detain the reader by any 
thing like a critical disquisition on the poon itself; its beauties 
tie BO striking and impreesiTe, that th«y will make themselTeti 
naible even through the isA ^ass of a foreign language ; the 
absorbing interest of the stoiy can scarce^ be weakened by the 
incapadty even of the least efScient translator. All therefore 
that I propose to do by way of preface is, to give a cursory 
account of the probable origin, and of the principal varieties of 
the l^iend, to notice some of the theories connected with it, 
and to conclude with a few observations on the metre in which 
the poem is written. I must, however, previously request my 
readers not to expect finm me any extent of research, or depth 
of information. Most of what I shall eet before them I have 
picked up myself at second hand. Let them consider me as a 
mere retailer of other men's knowledge, as one who sets i^ a 
■hop from the overflowing contents of a German warehouse. 
Even on the mc«t cursory perusal of the poem, we can di»> 
a2 



cera the &iut lines snd feding coloura of an historical picture. 
Attila has by general consent been recognized aa the original 
of Etzel, though the harsh features of the HunniBh king have 
been softened by the pen of the poet, and he appears rather as 
a powerfiil uid hospitable sorereign than aa a barbarous con- 
qiuiror. Dietrich of Bern, otherwise Theodoric of Verona, is 
not so readily identified with Theodoric the Ostrogoth ; the 
wandering exile, vho has taken refiige and found protection at 
the Hunnish court, appears at first sight to bear no resemblance 
to the rictoriouB king of Italy. Tradition, in feet, seems to 
have foi^:ott«n the most brilliant part of Theodoric's career, 
and, even in that part which she has remembered, to have con- 
founded him with Ms near relations. Theodoric himself waa bom 
two years after the death of Attila, but Ms father and undes 
were contemporaries and dependents of the victorious Hun, 
and he himself passed the early part of his life sometimes as 
the enemy, sometimes as the ally of Zeno the Isaurifui, who 
even adopted him aa his son. Hence, by a strange confusitm of 
genuine history and remote barbarian traditions, he is repre- 
sented in some .old poems, where he plays a more prominent 
part than in the Nibelungenlied, as the nephew of the Soman 
Emperor Srmanric, attacked and driven into exile by his relent- 
less uncle. Aa to the Burgandian princes, there is not much 
difficulty in tracing them to an historical source. In the year 
436, Qnndicanus, king of the Buigundians, was destroyed with 
his foQowen by the Huns, and this event is supposed to be re- 
present«d by the catastrophe of the Nibdungenlied, 

A darker shade rests on the adventures of Sieg&ied, smd no 
small difSculty has been found jn identifying him with any 
known character in history. Some sharp-sighted critics have 
discovered Julius Civilisj others no less a person than Anninius, 



under the cloak of Siegfiied ; but the most probable opinion 
seemB to be that which would identify him with Sigebert, king 
of Auatntsia, the husband of the famoua Brunehaidt. If we re- 
member that, in the ScandinaTian form of the legend, Si^fired, 
there called Sigurd, is most intimately connected with Brunhild, 
it must be allowed that the coincidence of nwnea is remarkable. 
Sigebert, though not without sustaining rererseB, repressed the 
incursions of the Avars, he routed the Saxons and Danes, he 
discovered a concealed treasure, and finally perished by the 
treachery of a near connection, being asBaesinated in 676 by 
the p^es of Fredegonde, his siater-in-law. More than a cen- 
tury, indeed, intervened between AttiU and Sigebert, while 
Etzel and SiegMed are, I believe, in every form of the legend, 
repTesented as contemporaries, but poets, and legendary ones 
in particulw, are seldom exact chronologists. 

Several critics, however, of the highest reputation, have re- 
ferred the legend, aa &r as it r^tes to SiegMed, to a very 
different origin. Dissatisfied with all historical erplanations, 
they have attempted a voyage of discovery into the misty 
regions of the mythical, and, since they could m^e nothing of 
Si^&ied aa a mortal, have endeavoured to mend matters by 
tnuisforming him into a god. Others have discerned in the 
same legend an allegorical representation of the vicissitudes of 
the seasons, of the struggle between the Guelfs and G-hibel- 
lines, and even of the Fall. I cannot say I have consulted the 
authors who muutdn opiuious apparently so fantastical, and, 
as I am acquainted with their notions only through the reports 
of others, I may dismiss them without further notice. I should, 
however, except Professor Lachmann, not merely on account of 
his justly eminent reputation, but because I have examined his 
arguments. The result of his inquiries -seems to be, that the 



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bright-e^ed $^&ied is no other tlian Balder, the god of light, 
whom the poetry of Qray has readra«d ^niliar to English 
readers, while Hagan, whose name signifies the prickly thom, 
and who according to some old traditions lost an eje, is the 
representatire of Hoder, who had no eyes at all, and who killed 
the God of light by a chance cast with a branch of mistletoe. 
This glittering God, according to the Pressor, ventured to 
kill the myBterious watchers of the cold northem region of the 
dead, and to take &om the dragon the gold of the nocturnal 
Gods ; he thus obtains riches and miraculous strength, but 
falls into the power of the demons ; he of necessity becomes 
their sworn brother, and marries their sister ; he brings through 
the flames the fire-girt Yalkyrie not for himself, but for his 
lord, the king of the region of dan^ess ; he marries her with 
the ring fivm the mysterious treasure, but she becomes the 
bride of his superior ; for that superior and in his shape, he 
subdues her virgin resistance ; finally he Is struck dead by the 
thom of death, and the treasure is sunk in the Bhine. It may 
be doubted whether the legcoid, which the Aufessor justly 
ddls obscure, is made materially clearer by his interpretation. 
If Hagan is to be compared with any god at all, he is more like 
-Odin than Hoder, for Odin occasionally appeuvd as a one- 
eyed man, and struck Brunhild into a trance with the thorn of 
sleep. Siegfiried on the contrary, in this theoiy, instead of 
assuming any features of divinity, resembles nobody so much 
aa an unfortunate mortal, who has sold himself to the Prince of 
Darkness for the possession of enormous wealth, and the en- 
jc^ment of a iair and &ful companion. 

This and the other mythical speculationB are founded rather 
on the ScandinaTiaa form of the legend, than on that which is 
exhibited in our poem. For the traditions in question w^<e by 



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no means confined to German7. The numerous atttboritiee, 
collected in Professor W. Griami's Deutsche Heldensage, 
prove them to have been well known ia DnglAiid, Scandinsm, 
and Iceland, and thej are said eren now to form the subject of 
nurtic Bonga in the Faroe Islands. The Scandinavian form of 
the legend la filled with all the fantastic marrela of a wild 
mythdogy, and the action ia forwarded by the personal inter- 
vention of the Northern Gods. Sieg&ied, under the name tyt 
Sigurd, is represented as the son of Sigmund, the son of Yol- 
anng, the son of Serir, the son of Sigi, the son of Odin ; but 
Odin showed scanty &vour tO his descendant Sigmund ; in the 
shape of a one-eyed man with an overhanging cowl and blue 
mantle, he opposed his spear to the sword of that hero, as the 
latter vras about to vanquish Mng Lingvi ; the sword sniped, 
and its possessor perished with most of his followers. A.i the 
court of the Danish king Hiai^rek, Sigmund's widow gave 
birth to a posthumous son, Sigurd ; the child was placed by 
Hialprek under the tuition of Beigin the son of Hreidmar, who 
instructed his pupil in draughts, Bunes, languages and other 
accompUshments, and moreover related his own history to him. 
Hreidmar, it seems, had two other sons, Fa&ir and Otur. The 
latter, having a longing for the dvrarf Andvari's fish, had taken 
the form of an otter for the convenience of catching them, and 
was busily employed in devouring a salmon at the foot of a 
seighbonring waterfall, when Lobi, who was roaming over the 
world with Odin and Hnnir, came suddenly upon him, and 
killed him with a stone. The three companions thought them- 
selres fortunate ; they carried off the skin of the otter, and 
requested hoapit^ty at the next dwelling, which unluckily 
happened to be the abode of Hreidmar. Their host at once 
lecc^^nized the hide of his son ; he and the two remaining hopes 



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of his fiunily seiiied the BtiungerB, and ordered them to pay a 
wergild for Otur by fiUing Iiu skin with gold, and then coTering 
it with the eame precious metal. The three Asei, or diviiiitieB, 
like too inaay mere mortals, had, it Beems, neither cash nor 
credit ; but LoM had his wits about him, and, though he could 
not borrow money, prevailed on the Bea-goddess Ban to lend 
him a net, with which he contrived to catch the dwarf Andraii, 
who, havmg the same taste as the unfortunate Otur, but know- 
ing just as little of the mysteries of the rod and the line, had 
assumed the form of a pike, and was just then oixupied in 
catching his own fish by his own waterfall. Andrari was 
obliged to give np all his gold for hia ransom ; he only begg'd 
he might retain one small gold ring for the purpose of acquiiing 
by its means another treasure, and, when his request was rejected 
by Loki, he pronounced this curse on the gold, that it should 
bring destruction on every one who might poeseas it. 

The gold was no sooner handed over to Hreidmar than his 
two remuning sons demanded their share of their brother's 
wergUd, and on hia refusal he was killed by Fa&iir, who took 
possession of the whole, retired from all the world, turned him- 
self into a horrible serpent, and remained watching and brood- 
ing over the treasure. Poor Beigin went empty-handed away, 
betook himself to king Hialprek, and becwne his smith, working 
in iron, sUver and gold. 

Seigin was smaller than either of his brothers, but made up 
for his diminutive stature by an excess of crafb and subtlety ; 
he now determined to employ his formidable pupil in the 
destruction of the treacherous Fafiiir. Sigurd had already 
selected from the stud of Hialprek the horse Grani, a descendant 
of Sleipnir, the eight-legged steed of Odin ; Be^jn had foi^d 
for him fi«m the fragments of Sigmuud's weapon the celebrated 



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Gword Gram ; he had revenged his iather by the defeat smd 
death of Lingvi ; Odin in the fonn of an old bearded man had 
assisted him in several adTenturea ; and now hie usual good 
fortune attended him in his operotione agiunat Faftiir. The 
latter, however, though mortally wounded, had still time to reply 
to his conqueror's inquirieB about Nomt and Ate* (Fates and 
(Jods), and to warn him, though in vain, against the poHseasbn 
of the &tal treasure. 

Beigin, who had slunk off in a fright while the battle was 
going on, returned when all waa ovet with his brother, and 
recommended Sigurd to cut out and roaat the heart of his victim, 
while he himself proceeded to drink the blood. Sigurd did as 
he waa desired, when, having dipped his finger in the dripping, 
and just touched it with the tip of his tongue in order to ascer- 
tain by the taste the progreas of his cookery, he was aatonished 
to perceive that he understood the language of the birds as they 
twittered on the neighbouring branches. One of these feathered 
comiseUors promised him wisdom if he ate the heart ; another 
informed biTn that Beigin meant him no good ; a third recom- 
mended him to kill the traitor, and keep the treasure tdl to 
himself; while a fourth confirmed the advice of the rest, and, 
in addition, exhorted him to seek counsel fix>m the wise Brun- 
hild. They found a docile pupil in the obedient Sigurd, who, 
having first done every thing else that they had advised, finally 
rode off in search of the learned lady. 

Brunhild vraa a Talkyrie, or Chooser of the Slain, who, having 
presumed to give victory to a king whom Odin had destined to 
defeat, had been struck into a trance with the sleep-thorn by 
the offended God, Ibrbidden to enter the battle-field again, and 
condemned to the ptuns and penalties of matrimony. Sigurd 
found her asleep in her castle, clad in complete armour. He 



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discovered her aei by remoying her helmet ; when she woke, she 
related her history, aseured him that she would never marry any 
one acquainted with fear, and, as if he had been imperfectly 
educated by the birds and Beigin, instructed him in the power 
of Bunes and in worldly wisdom. After both had awom mutual 
fidelily, Sigurd rode away. They met ag^ in the city of- 
Brunhild's brother-in-law, Heimir, and there renewed their 
engagement. Sigurd gave her the ring of Andvari, and again 
departed. 

He now reached the castle of ting Qiuki, who reigned in the 
South on the Bhme. Oiuki had three sons, Gnnnar, Hogni, 
and O-udorm, and a most beautiAil daughter called Chidrun. 
TTJH wife Qrimhild was a skilful enchantress. Gudrua had 
already consulted the wise Brunhild on account of some porten- 
tous dreams, and had already learned &om her her fiiture destiny 
in marriage, when Sigurd arrived with all his wealth at the 
castle of Oiuki, and was hospitably received. CUmhild, as they 
sat merrily drinking together, gave him a magic potion, which 
caused him to forget Brunhild, to contract the most intimate 
friendship with OiuM's sons, and to many their sister. Sigurd 
gave bis bride a portion of Fa&ir's heart to eat, a diet which 
inspired her with ferocity. 

Sigurd and Giuki's sons achieved in company many brilliant 
adventures, and slew many princes. Grimhild meanwhile 
instigated Qunnar to pay bis addresses to Brunhild. Bndli, 
the father of the latter, gladly consented to the proposal, but 
added that his daughter was so proud that she would choose for 
herself and, in fact, had vowed to many no one but the suitor 
who could lide through the blazing fire that encircled her resi- 
dence. This was vainly attempted by 6nnnar, upon which 
Sigurd changed shapes vrith faia friend, mounted Clrani, drew 



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bis Bfford Gram, and, though the earth rooked, and the crackling 
flame flared up to heav^ rode manfully through the confl^ 
gratioQ. Bmnhild kept her tow though against her inclinntiDn. 
Three nighta Sigurd in the ibrm of Ghmnar shared her bed, 
irithoat however touching h^; the sword Gram was placed 
between them. Before he left her, he drew Andvari'a ring 
from her finger, and replaced it with another from the treasure 
of Ea&ir ; then he rode back through the fie to his companionB, 
and resmned his own form. Bnmhild begged Heimer, her 
fiMter-fother, to bring up her daughter Aslog, the fruit of one 
o£ her earlier interviews with Sigurd, uid waei afterwards con- 
dacted hj her &ther Budli and her brother Atli to the court of 
6unnar. The marriage-feast had lasted sereral days, when 
Sigurd remembered his oath to Brunhild ; he assumed howerer 
an appearance of being at his ease. G-unnar and his bride sat 
comfortably together, drinking wine. 

As they were thus bU living in the same castle, it happened 
that Brunhild and Gudrun went one day to bathe in the Bhine. 
The former went higher up the stream ; the latter asked, what 
was the meaning of that. " Why," replied Brunhild, " should 
I put myself on a level with thee in this matter more than in 
others ? My lather is more power&l than thine ; my hueband 
is nobler ; he rode through the blazing fire ; but thine wae the 
servant of king Hi^prek." Qudron defended her husband from 
so unjust a reproach, "for," said she, " it was Sigurd that slew 
Fa&iir, Sigurd that rode through the fire, Sigurd that in the 
shape of Gunnw shared thy bed, and drew Andvari's ring from 
thy finger. And perhaps," she added, holding out her hand, 
" thou may'st know this ring again." Brunhild turned pale as a 
corpse and answered not a word. At uiother angry meeting 
she discovered that Sigurd had been alienated from her by the 



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magic potion. On this, she threw herself on her bed ; she re^ 
proached Gunnar with his cowu^ce and treachery, and, after 
R fruitless attempt to kill him, lay for seven days without 
speaking. Sigurd vunly attempted to console her by offering 
to forsake Chidrun, and many his first love ; his sides swelled 
with emotion so as to buret his coat of mail (!) ; but she replied 
that she would never prove &lae to Gunnar, never would take 
Sigurd or any one else, for her husband. 

Finally, she threatened to leave Gunnar, unless he took the 
life of Sigurd. Gunnar, though dissuaded by Hogni and him- 
self at first unwiying, yielded to her request. The third brother 
Gudorm, who had contracted no sworn friendship with Sigurd, 
was plied with promises and messes of snakes' and wolves' flesh, 
till he declared himself ready to undertake the murder. Twice 
he attempted it in vain ; he shrunk from the sparkling eyes of 
Sigurd. The third time he found him asleep, and stabbed him 
as he lay by the sideof Qudrun. Sigurd started up, and, though 
dying, threw his sword after his murderer, and cut him in two 
as he fled. Brunhild on this distributed her gold, and then 
stabbed herself, having before her death foretold the deatiniea 
of Gunnar, Gudrun and Atli, and requested to be burned on. 
the same pile as Sigurd, with a drawn sword between them. 

Gudrun bitterly lamented the death of Sigurd; even hia 
horse Grani drooped his head. Gudrun then fled to king 
Hialprek. Her mother no sooner heard where she was, than 
she hastened thither with her sons to offer her a compensation 
for the death of her husband. The widow, however, was inex- 
orable, till Gunnar administered the universal medicine, a magic 
potion. Under its influence Gudrun not merely forgot all her' 
sorrows, but at the request of her mother, though not vnthout 
dark misgivings, consented to marry Aldi, the brother of Brun- 



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tiild. Four days they travelled on horseback, four by sea, and 
four again by land, till they reached Atli's caatle. The marriage 
was then celebrated with much iiiaguific«iice. 

Atli ■sad Gudruu do not seem to have hved rery happily 
together. Theii livea were in particulaF made wretched by all 
sorts of ominoua dreams. At last AtU, who hankered after the 
poaseBBion of Sigurd's treasure, which was detained by Qimiiar 
and Hogni, reeolved to get his brother-in-law into his power by 
means of a £iendly invitation. Hiswife, who suspected treachety, 
cut certain warning runes, and sent them by her husband's 
messenger. The latter, however, altered the runea by cutting 
them in such a manner, that Oudrun appeared to concur in 
Atli'B iuvitatiou. Both the brothere at fiist refused to come, 
but, having drunk to intoxication, they were persuaded by the 
splendid promises of the messenger and the sight of the &Iai- 
fied runes to depart for the court of Atli. Though both thdr 
wives had had bad dreams, and Hogni'a had even discovered the 
falsification of the runes, and detected their original import, the 
brothers disregarded all remonstrances, and set out with a scanty 
train. 

They had scarcely arrived, when Atli demanded the treasure 
in right of his wife, and on their refusal to give it up, attacked 
them with fuiy. Gudrun no sooner heard the tumult, than she 
rushed to the spot, kissed her brothers, and assured them, that 
she bad attempted to prevent their coming, but no one could 
change the course of destiny ; she then endeavoiired to effect a 
reconciliation, but in vain. She finally clothed herself in armour, 
sdzed a sword, and fought as bravely as the stoutest warrior in 
d^ence of her brothers. After a deq)erate struggle, however, 
the strangers were overpowered by numbers ; Chumar, and at 
last Hogni, after aU their companions had been cut to pieces. 



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fell alive into the power of Atli. The latter agun required 
Gunnar to give up the treasure on pain of death. Gimnar 
demanded first to Bee the bleeding heart of Kogm. The heart 
of another victim was brought before him, but he at onoe di»- 
corered, by its quiverii^, that it was the heart of a coward, not 
that of his valiant brother. On this, the heart of Hogni was 
cut out in earnest ; the hero laughed under the knife. Wben 
the heart was brought to Gunnar, " this," said he, « ia indeed 
the heart of Hogni ; it quivers as little now, afi when it hj in 
tits breast of its owner. Thou too, Atli, shalt die like us ; but 
now I ^one know where the treasure is to be found, and the 
Shine sh^ sooner dispose of it, than I will hand it over to 
thee." On this he was immediately thrown into a dungeon fiill 
of serpents. His sister sent him a harp, on which, though hia 
hands were bound, he played with his teetb as sweetly aa othem 
with their hands. Hia music charmed to sleep all the anakea 
except one huge and horrible viper, which crept up to him and 
piraced him to the heart. 

Atii had soon reason to repent of his treachery. His wife, 
having first lulled his suspidons asleep by a fidse appearance of 
tranquillity on her part, cut the throats <^ her two sons by him 
as they were playing together, filled their sknUa with wine 
which she had mingled with their blood, roasted their hearts, 
and aerred up the Thyestesn repast to thdr unctmsdous fitther. 
She completed her revenge by plotting against him with Niflun^ 
a son of Hogni's, who longed to take vengeance on his father's 
murderer, and gladly assisted Gudmn to stab him as he slum- 
bered. She then set fire to the hall, where her husband's 
followers were aleeping, and the miserable inmates slew one 
another to escape the torture of being burnt alive. The fiirther 
«dventuree of Gudnm (for she married a thii'ii husband, and 



was mixed up with other borrora) have no reference to the 
Nibelungenlied. 

I have borrowed from VoUmer's Preface to Mb edition of the 
Nibelnnge Nbt the above account of the legend in its Soandi- 
nanan form. The frequent supernatural interpodtions, the 
constant recoQ]!8e to encbaQtments, the ferocity of the manners, 
and SnfiUy the uniTeiaal prevalence of heathenism, give it an 
i^pearmce of great antiquity ; yet it may be doubted whether 
the original form of the abHy is everywhere better preserved 
than in the later poem. Bveiy thing relating to the youth of 
Siegfried, to his acquaintance with Brunhild, and to the history 
of the latter, is brought forward tar more prominently and clearly 
in the Bcandinavian tradition ; in Atli, however, we no longer 
recognize the Hunniah king, and look in vain for Dietrich, 
Hildebnmd and Budeger. Now Etzel and Dietrich can be 
traced to auth^tic history; they must therefore have appeared 
in the original form of the legend, and, in &ct, do appear in one 
of the easiest documents relating to it, the curious old frag- 
ment of the lay of Hildebrand. It is clear therefore that, as to 
this part ctf the l^eod at least, its origiBal features are more 
fiutiifuUy preserved in the oomparstively modem poem than 
izL the older Scandinavian remains, and, though it may be 
hazardous to found an opinion on a scanty fragment, the spirit 
as weflas the Bobstanoe of the lay of Hildebrand seems more in 
unison with t^efbrmer than with the latter. That the legend itself 
is of 0«rmaa and not of Scandinavian origm, there can, I beheve, 
be no reasonable doubt ; in its passage from one country to 
the other, it seeme to ha;Te Burred essential changes in cha- 
racter still more t^iaii in tarm. The KibelungmHed, like the 
Homeric poems, is a work for all ages and all nations, for, like 
them, it rests principally on those natural sympathies which are 



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commoa to all mankind. A reader require* no prerious truning 
to reliah such a work. The Xorthem form of our legend, on. 
the contrary, is thoroughly imhued with the ScuidinaTian cha- 
racter ; every thing in it appew^ at once dilated and obBcured 
by the mist of a peculiar nationality. The diffOTent personages 
of the Nibelungenlied are actuated by ordinary motives and 
human passions ; love, hatred, anger and revenge agitate their 
beui«, and the action of the poem proceeds accordingly ; the 
jnarvellouB is not wanting, but it is subordinate to natural im- 
pulses; whereas, in the Scandinavian traditions, it puts all the 
charaetera in motion ; it assumes the place of every passion | 
a bver cannot be fickle, nor a woman variable, but imder its 
influence ; magic potions and enchanted messes o0 the wheels 
of the story. 

The Vilkina Saga is a Damah work, composed according to 
Professor "W. Grimm about the 13th century, but avowedly 
foimded on German poems, and on the oral tradition of Germans, 
principally from Bremen and Munster. It may be supposed 
therefore to preserve the traditiDnB of the North of Germany, 
aa our poem does those of the South. I am only acquainted 
with the summary of it in Vollmer'a preface. It naturally 
bears a strong resemblance to the Kibelungenlied, and some of 
the incongruities of the latter may, I think, be traced to its 
influence. We here meet with Attila, Bodingier, Dietrich and 
Hildebrand. The three brothers of our poem are here four ; 
Giumar, Gemot, Eogni mid Giselher ; their sister is Grimhild, 
their mother Oda. The early life of Sigurd is given at length 
with very considerable variations both from the Tolsunga Saga 
and £rom the Ifibelnngenlied. In particular, the serpent slain 
by Sigurd is not described as watching any txeasure ; afterwards 
indeed Sieg&ied's wedth is f^ken of, but it is not sai^ how he 



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came by it. It is remarkable that the BcandiuaTiaii Sigurd, 
like the Homeric AchiUeB, is not invulnerable ; the Yilkina 
Saga, bowerer, coDtainB thia marvellous addition to the legend. 
There Sigurd becomes invulnerable much in the same way as in 
our poem, but be has no magic cloak. He changes shapes with 
Gannar to subdue the re&actory Brunhild, and, after having 
with the conrnvance of Gunnar enjoyed the last privilege of a 
husband, discloses to his wife the disgraced secret. The 
delicate subject of Gunther's bridal night is treated in the 
ffibelnngenlied with such a b^py union of spirit and decorum, 
that no reader would wish for a change, but there is one defect 
in the narrative which disappears in the coarser fonn of the 
Btoiy ; the latter assigns an adequate cause for the treachery of 
Gmmar or Gnnther, and his share in the conspiracy against 
Sigurd. Attila is called Wiig of Suaat or Soest, but his people 
are Huns. He is described as veiy avaricions, and Grimhild, 
after having become his wife, prompts him to invite her 
brothers by the prospect of obtaining the treasures of Sigurd, 
of which they had unjustly deprived her, but it is she, and not 
her husband, who contrives the treacherouB attack upon them. 
At the close of the story, she is slain, as in our poem, not how- 
ever by Hndebrand, but by Dietrich. 

The Nibelungenlied, in the form in which we now possess it, 
has been assigned by Professor Lachmann to the beginning of 
the 13th century. Its author is unknown, and, indeed, whether 
it be the work of one poet, of two, or of twenty, is still, I 
beheve, a matter of dispute among Gennan critics. Of the 
inquirers, who have endeavoured to solve these dubious ques- 
tions, Professor Lachmann is incontestably the chief He 
commenced his operations about thirty years ago with a treatise, 
in which he avowedly took WolPs Prolegomena to Homer for 



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the model of liis researches. He has since pnbliiihed an editiott 
of the poem with coUattons of the differeat matLOBCriptB and 
with numerous notes. In this monument of patience, learning, 
and ingenuity, he has subjected the poem to the moat ri^d 
Bcrndny ; he has questioned the genuineness of numerous 
passages, and proposed a new arrangement for the remainder. 
He has in fiiet put every stanza, and every verse on its trial. 
Some have been condemned by him to italics, aa interpolations; 
others to brackets, as continuations by diferent hands ; others 
again, which he supposes to be the latest additions, so lar from 
being pitied for their youth, have been visited with both kinds 
of punishment. He has not however sentenced any of the 
delinquents to transportation from the textj or, perhaps it 
would be more correct to say, that he has sentenced tbem, but 
has not carried the sentence into executbn. The result of the 
whole assize has been, that out of the 245d stanzas of Dr. 
Braunfels's edition, or the 2316 of Professor Lachmann'a, 1137 
have been honourably acquitted ; the rest have been italicized, 
bracketed, or both- 
Such vigorous proceedings may perhaps seem to ^Englishmen 
rather more than necessity required ; they may possibly sus- 
pect that, in some instances, this ffrfye mart baa been a massacre 
of innocents. In justice however, to the Professor, I must 
inform the reader, that the opinion of some German critics is 
just the reverse ; they consider him liable rather to a charge of 
excessive moderation; he would, as they think, have done better 
if he had gone ^u^her ; and indeed it must be confessed, that 
some of the objections, which he has uiged against passages 
which he has condemned, are just as applicable to others which 
he has acquitted. At any rate, the bradcets and italics, 
whether liberally or scantily applied, have not done all that was 



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rwinired. Some diHorepanciea and contradictions still remain, 
ad, as th^, it Beems, cannot be removed, it is the more neces- 
sary to account for them. 

This object is, no doubt, e£ectuallf secored by Professor 
Laehmann'a hypothesis as to theanthorahipofthepoem. After 
weeding 6ut several hundred spurious BtanEas, many of which, 
however, he allows to have great merit, he thiuks he haa 
detected in the remainder twenty distinct Lays, each difiering 
in style and tone from the rest, and each, with the exception of 
tiie eighth and ninth, the work of s different author. He 
siqiposes that these twenty Lays, which had already Bufibred 
from the interpolationa and coiruptionB incident to oral tradi- 
tiim, were first collected, ccmuaitted to writing, and patched 
blether into one poem about the year 1210 by some unknown 
compiler, whose haodywork was afterwordB corrected or d^naved 
by two separate but equally unknown revisers. It is his c^inion, 
&at scarcdy a stanza of what we possess is older thui 1190, 
while even the latest additions aie not more recent than 1225. 
The whole poem, therefore is, according to Professor Lachmann, 
&B work of conteonporaiy authors, whether we call their com- 
pontionB spiuioua or genuine ; and the task which the Pro- 
fessor has undertaken is neither more nor leas than to distribute 
a mass of unowned literaiy property among nineteen or twenty 
poeta and an indefinite number of poetasters, of whom nothing, 
not even their existence, is known except hj ctmjecture, aai of 
whose distinguishing chairacteciaticB we are of course completely 
ignorant, except as &r as we may guera at them from the inter- 
nal evidence, real or imagined, of the poem itself. 

I hope I shall not be supposed deficient in, deference towards 
a idolar iriiose learning I reelect and whose acuteness I admire, 
when I express a doubt -whether FrofeBsor Xiachmsnn, or any 

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other critic, or all the critics, that ever ezifited, put together, 
can perfonn such a task as this. Ab to the difference of etjlel 
or tone, which the FrofcBsor imagines he has detected in thei 
difierent portions of the poem, this is but a deceptive light to 
guide a critical adventurer through the hazards of such an un- 
certain navigation. If no critic hae yet heen able to point out 
the respective shares of Beaumont and Fletcher in the plays 
which they published in common, if it is yet a matter of doubt, 
what portion of the Two Noble Kinsmen was written by Shak- 
speare, and what by Fletcher, or whether Shakspeare had any 
hand in the play at all, if we cannot poiut out with any certiunty 
the unac^owledged works of two well-known and remarkable 
authors, how can we believe that any power of criticism can 
distinguish between twenty, or thirty, or forly supposed ones, 
so as to aaaign to every man his own ? Nor is this the only 
demand on our credulity which is made by the hypothesis in 
question. We must also believe not merely that the supposed 
first compiler, who might well have been satisfied with collecting 
and committing to writing the admired productions of popuhv 
poets, dared to disfigure poems, which were f ftmiiinir to all the 
world, by piecing them together with his own bunding work, 
but that his countrymen at large, however they might squabble 
and scufQe on other subjects, agreed with miraculous unanimity 
in applauding his stupid audacity; for the supposed Lays, which 
once, we are told, were so generally admired, seem to have been 
Bupphmted by the adulterated poem ; they at least utterly dis- 
appeared, till they were detected, after the lapse of six centuries, 
lurking among the rubbish of compUers and revisers : the fliea 
seem to have preserved the amber. 

In spite, however, of these multiplied improbabilities, every 
objection to the hypotheeis would be materially weakened, per> 



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hapB even altogether remored, if the Twentf Lays, vhen purged 
from the hetorogeneouB matter that is supposed to obscuie 
their beauties, had really the air of eeparato poems. But it is 
just here that the &ilure of the hypothesis is most conspicuous. 
In reading Professor Lachmanu's notes and ohBerrationB, we 
are dazzled by his acutoness and ingenuity ; we are prone to be- 
Ueve all we are told by so keen and derer a person ; but a cahn 
examination of the Lays themselves diasolTes the charm ; it has 
something like the effect of a rednctio ad abturdvm. Something, 
we see at once, must be wrong either in the premises or deduc- 
tions, when we meet with such preposterous results. Some oi 
the Lays, I allow, are not ill adapted, from the nature of their 
contents, to form separato poems, but they are by no means 
out of place as episodes in a long work, and are, besides, con* 
nected with the rest, while the latter, &om the insignificance of 
their contents taken alone, Erom their references to one another, 
from their allusions to the past and anticipations of the future, 
frvm their abrupt commencements and stall more abrupt con- 
cluaions, and from their general fragmentary nature, could 
neyer have been independent Lays. Feriiaps there ia no poem 
in the whole range of literature, in which forebodings of evil 
are more frequent than in the Nibelungenlied ; none, in which 
the final catastrophe is more repeatedly alluded to. It is true 
that the critical Balvmng of Professor Lachmann has made 
fearfiil havoc among these particular passages ; still enough have 
esctq>ed to be &tal to his theoiy. To prove by examples all 
that I have just asserted, would lead me iar beyond the iimita of 
a prelace ; I will therefore only notice a prominent point or two. 
The dream of Eriemhild forms a strange opening for a lay that 
just brings Siegfried to IVomiB, and there leaves him. Nobody, 
in fact, would have composed a separato poem on so insignificant 



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a matter. Tbe dream, howeTer, is b^rond all doubt the intro- 
duction, the fit and appropriate introductioD, to a poem that 
must go on at least to the marri^e of Kriemhild and the death 
of her husband. Professor Lachmann hiniBelf Heems to be in 
doubt whether this First Lay be complete ; he talks of " this 
]&j, or what has been preserred of it ;" he tells us that " it 
several iamee indicates a continuation, and might hare des^afved 
a better thim that which follows ;" but though he expresses a 
doubt, he g^res no reasons for entertaining one. It certunly 
would require &r lees than the Professor's ingenuity to assign 
cogent reasons for a doubt, and indeed Ibr much more than a 
doubt, on this point ; the Lay, as it stands, is a " passage that 
leads to notiiing," a mountain in labour, that does not produce 
even so much as a mouse ; but it is not singnW in this respect ; 
its brethran for the most part keep it in couat^iance ; or, if they 
contain matter of interest, they too often try the temper of the 
reader by disi^pointing his expectations at the most critical 
moment, tmd coming to an abrupt conchision in the midst of 
an action. Ihos the i^hteralh Lay ends just after the batUe 
between the Hiuis and BurgBtutians has begun ; the Niueteeaith 
stops short just at the moment when !EtEeI has brought up 
twenty thousand fresh men, and commenced another attack oa 
Chintlier and his followers. It reaUy is a waste of words to 
dwell on the peculiaritieB of Bueh whimsical arrangements as 
these. I will merely add a word or two on the Fourteenth 
Lay, which, inasmuch as it is an introduction to what fii^wi^ 
bears some resemblance to the First. The dream d TJta, the 
prophecy of the mermaids, and all the gloomy forebodingB which 
giro a peculiar character to this Lay, are ludicromly out of 
place as component parts of a short poem, which merely cod- 
ductfl the Burgundiana to Budeger's caetle, where, so iar &om 



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being destroyecl, ttey do not even run any riak whateter, ex- 
cept that of being killed with kindaees ; but in fact the trhole 
tenoT of the lay (one might ahnoHt say, every line, every word 
of it) proves beyond dispute, that we are there in the midst of 
an exteuidre poem, which cim end only with the destruction of 
the last Bui^undian. An sttectlve examination of the three 
or four Lays juflt noticed, would, I think, convince every unpre- 
judiced reader that the hypothesis of twenty separate liays by 
different authors is utterly untenable. I may therefore, I 
truat, dispense with reviewing each Lay in succesaion ; to do so 
to Miy purpose would require a separate disaertation, and would 
cnly lead to the same conclusion. 

I have had ^o opportunity of eiamiimig the arguments of 
those oitics, who attribute the two parta of the Nibelungenlied 
to two distinct authors. This opinion must, I should imagine, 
be founded principally on two fhcts. In the first part of the 
poem the N'ibelungers are Sieg&ied's Norwegian vassals, while 
in the second (except in the suspicious stanza 1S73) the same 
term is appropriated to the Buif;undians. It is, however, 
worthy of remark, that the words Aelt von Niblungeltmt are at 
stanza 1770 applied to 9iegftied, who certainly was not a Biit- 
gundian, while in the next stanza but one the phrase tr&»t der 
Nihlunge is addressed either to Gimther or to Hagan. I 
must leave to professed critics the task of reconciling this dis- 
crepancy. The other fact, that supports the notion of a distinct 
author for each part of the poem, is the famous contradiction 
about Dankwart's age, which occurs at St. 1993. The 
writer <^ this stanxa could never have been the author of the 
first part of the poem. Whether, however, the stanza itself 
may not have crept in from another quarter, I have ventured 
to inquire in a note to the passage in question, and to that note 
I beg to refer the reader. 

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Some of my countrymeu may perhaps be aatonisbed at beaiS 
ing doubta expreBsed as to the genumeneaa of this or that 
Btaoza, and, Then they are told that an eminent critic haa 
condemned some hundreds of stanzas, they may imagine that an 
Englishman has been wasting time and pains in translating 
them. That the Nibelungenlied has been extensively inter- 
polated, is, I believe, agreed on all hands ; we may conclude as 
much, from having reason to believe that it was handed down 
for some time (how long, nobody knows for certain) by oral 
tradition, and what effect such a state of things may have on 
popular poetry, vre may readily collect from what Bishop Percy 
and Sir Walter Scott have told us of the variationB in our own 
old ballads. We may, however, have little doubt that extensive 
interpolationB exist, and yet find it difficult enough to determine, 
what particular stanzas are interpolated. Profeseor Xiachmann 
himself, who can scarcely be suspected of imdue partiality for 
hie victims, admits that many of them are of eminent beauty, 
though, for variouB reasons, he thinks tJiey should be rejected. 
On this point, indeed, aa on too many relating to this poem, 
we find just enough to awaken suspicion, but not enough to act 
upon; any attempt under such circumstances to reduce our 
speculations to practice can only lead to still greater confusion, 
particularly when we see the most eminent critics difiering as 
to the details not merely from one another, but even from 
themselves. Surely the wisest course, in such uncertainty, is 
to take the poem as we find it, and to prefer the authority, 
however occasionally nnsatia&ctory, of manuscripts to the 
speculations of the most ingenious critics. Such appears to be 
the general opinion in Germany, if we may judge frcnn the 
modernized versions of the poem. Dr. Simrock, indeed, has 
published a version of the Twenty Lays, and strongly recom- 



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menda the new urangementB ; but he lias also given UB a 
version of the irliole poem, and thia latter veraion has gone 
through three editiona. Dr. BrBuofels, though in the main 
admittii^ Profeasor Jjachmann'e theory, though believing him 
even too moderate in the use of the pruning hook, has himaelf 
edited and modernized the full text, and I have, in fact, traua- 
lated from hia volume. I may add too the names of Beta and 
Marbach, who have alao executed versious of the complete 
poem. I have therefore ample native authority for the course 
which I have pureued, and can justify myself by the example of 
some, who support the theoiy from which I have presumed to 
diasent. The poem, in its ordinary form and extent, ia not 
vrithout difficulties, but any body, with a tithe of Professor 
Lachmann's ingenuity, might easily produce a list of far more 
serious objections against the Twenty Lays, which some critics 
would substitute in ita place. It forms not merely a more 
curious, but^ if I may venture an opinion, a better and more 
readable book than its rival I have, therefore, felt no hesit^ 
tion in translating the poem as it has come down to us 
from the middle ages, not as it has been mutilated and re- 
arranged by the ingenuity of modem criticism. 

The versification of the Kibelungenlied is regulated by 
accent, but differs from modem accentual systems in the 
option, which is allowed in it, of suppressing or supplying the 
unaccented syllables. Many lines in consequence seem 
defectiTe to modem ears from the suppression of these 
syllables ; wttere they are not suppressed, the most fastadious 
reader must ccmfess the smoothness and elegance of tiie versi- 
fication. A similar liberty was permitted to our poets befiire 
the time of Lord Surrey, and in some degree even later. Thus 
a certain ^prenticeship is required to relish Chaucer's versifi- 



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catioii generally, vhUe occaaoaaily hie lines are as emooth and 
fiill &B those of BUj modem poet. Aa to the number t£ accents 
in each verae of the Nibelungenlied, or rather in the three first 
of every atanza, the German criticH are not agreed ; some are 
for six, others for aeven ; but the whole dispute eeema to be 
more about words than things. Dr. Simrock, perhapa the moat 
eminent modemizer of the poem, wrote hia version while he waa 
of the first opinion, he has since altered his mind ; but he has 
not, I believe, been under the dis^reeable necesaity of re&am- 
ing his work in consequence. From this it would appear that 
the controversy is of no practical importance. For the purposes 
of this pre&ce I ahall follow the opinion of Professor Junes 
Grimm, who allows the verae in question six accents with a 
ringing csesura, that is, a cssura on an unaccented syllable. 
Thk opinion is at least in accordance with the modem 
accentuation both of German and Snglish. I should add that 
usually the last line of ev^ stanza receives one accent mon 
than the other three, and this additional accent is in the second 
half of the verse. In my translation, I have not (bought it 
«:q>edient to m^e a mle of thus lengthening the fourth lines 
of the stanzas, though I have lengthened them occasionally. 

But this subject is best explained by exwnplcs. I ah^ 
therefire give the 662nd atuiza of the poem, a stanza which I 
have selected because all the unaccented syllables are ai^lied, 
and I shall mark the ceesura and the accents ; I shall thrai 
quote two Eng^h stanzas, the first from Mr. Macaulay, the 
second &om Mr. Lookhart. The reader will at once p^raeive 
that the measure is the aame in all the three stuizaal except 
that the last line of the German stanza is longer than the rest 
by one accented and one unacc^ited syllable. 



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Die ihgett lU bdtbeo ; | in imd den a&gta ain 

EDhi&t«t alnsii iSmmt | der hiigeaSle mln. 

Den Ue ich yr6l gcsAndon ; | er Mt mich i& sssint, 

Daa fob hIu bdte -wsre | mitm^renhir in Iwer Ubt. 

Big-lit weQ foug-ht all tlie Frenuhnmi, who fought fac Fraaoe to-day. 

And many a lordly banner Qod g&ve them for a prey ; 

But we of the religion have borne ua best in fight, 

Jtfidtbe goodhmlaf Bony hutk'en the oonut vUta. 

" Good king," she said, " my mother was burled long ago ; 

Slie left me to thy Leeping ; none else my grief Bhall know. 

I fiun would hsve a hiuband ; 't ta time Oiat I abonld wed ; 

Poi^ve the worda I ntter ; with mickle ahame lliey'n aaid." 
Occaeionally the renie receives an additional accent in its 
first hai£, and ia then precisely equivalent to our long ballad 
line, as in the second line of Bt. lOSO. 

SileiteninAf elnenadillt, derwas vonpoldartt. 

The comet white with cioaaea black, Ihs fl^ of fUae Lorraine. (Ivt;) 
Once at least it seems as short as our heroic line, as in the third 
line of St. 435. 

Dorob dioh mit im ioh hei gavani bin. 
But I need not dwell any longw <»i nnuaaal liberties. 

The Teroe in question, at least the form of it which is fonnd 
in the three first lines of the stanza, is not confined to Qermany. 
Vtr. Macaulay has some ohserrations on this pdutinhisprefoce 
to the L«^ of Ancient Btune, and Fro&ssor Laohmann saya 
the same kind of rene occurs among the modem Greeks and 
the Spaniards, The old poem of the Cid seeim written in it, 
but that cnriooa work ia sufficiently rude and uncouth when 
compared with the Nibelungenlied. Here and there, however, 
■mooth vemee occur, as 

Gradidmelo, mia fijas, ca bien voe he caaadaa. 



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Succeeding poets, however inferior in fiirce and spirit, were less 
rugged in their versification. The following specimen from 
Gh>nzalo de Berceo, who died in 1268, is probably older than 
the Mbelnngenlied. It is the first stanza of the Life of St. 
Domingo de Silos. Lite its 776 companions, it has its four 
lines written on one rhyme. 

En bI nomns del Podie, que tto toda oom, 
Et de Don Jesu Chriita, F^o de U, GIoruiaB, 
Bt del Spiritu Santo, que igml dalloB posa, 
De on oon&BKO' Sanoto quiero fer una praa. 
Whether this proM, or pieces in a similar strain, had any 
influence on our own literature, is more than I can say, but 
certainly the curious life of St. Margiffet, given by Hickes 
towM^ the dose of his Anglo-Saxon and Mceso-Gothic (Gram- 
mar, bears a strong resemblance to this Spanish specimen. This 
is evident from the beginning of the poem. 

Oldfl ant joage i preit ou oure foliee Ibr to lete. 
Tbenoliet onBodOiAt^ef ou vitoureBonnee tobeta. 
Here i mai tellen on wid wordee feire ant swele 
Tbe vie of one tneidan waihoten Uaregrrete. 
The versification of the EngLish and Spanish poems resembles 
that of the Mbelungenlied, but in the peculiar system of rhym- 
ing they dififer from the <>erman w(»'k, and agree with one 
another. This Life of St. Margaret is, I believe, the oldest and 
longest Enghsh specimen of the measure under consideration. 
Yet this measure is common enough in our language. It is, an 
Mr. Macaulay has observed, no stranger to our nurseries, a 
proo^ perhaps, that it has sprung up independently among us, 
and, notwithstanding its likeness to the production of foreign 
Boik, is a native of our own. The well known nuiseiy ballad, 
that begins, 

SingatODKofaUpence, a pocket full otrje. 



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is a fair Bpecimen of it. Tet, tliougli it is to be found, I believe, 
in all ages of English poetiy, it occurs only in short pieces, and 
often partially even in them. It is apt with us to run off into 
the long ballad verse of fourteen syllablea, or into the Alexan- 
drine of twelve, two descriptionB of verse, with which it is mort 
intinutely connected. It is longer than the latter by a single 
unaccented Byllable, and ahorter than the former by a single 
accented one. Let us take thia Alexandrine of Spenser's, 

The (;enQe vaibling vind loir answered to all ; 
if we add an unaccented syllable, as 

The gentle vubling Zephyr low umrered to all, 
we have the verse of the Nibelungenlied; if to this last we add 
an accented one, as 

The gentle warbling Zephyr's breath low aoBWered to all, 
we have the ordinary ballad line. But the verse, which we are 
contddering, differs esaentially in character &om the two so 
nearly related to it. In theee, particularly in the Alexandrine, 
the same number of syllables is rigidly preserved, and thus, 
when long poems have been composed in them, a wearisome 
monotony has been the result. But the peculiar characteristic 
of what may be called the intermediate verse, is its variety. 
Though written as one long line, it is treated in practice as two 
short ones, uid consequently admits the suppression of the un- 
accented syllable at the beginning of each of its two parts with- 
out injury to its harmony, though not without an agreeable 
modification of its effect. No ear can be offended vrith any <rf 
the following forms, 

The gentle tratbling Zephyr low aniwerad to all, 
Gentle warbling Zephyr low answered to aU, 
The gentle warbling Zephyr answered to an, 
Oenlle warbling Zephyr answered to all. 



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and when we add to these vuiationB those produced by the 
liberty of inserting an additional unaccented syllable in the Bame 
parta of the verse, no one, I think, wiU quarrel with Br. Braun- 
fels for pronoonoing a panegyric on the " charming yarietj" of 
this meaaure. Nor is this freedom reetricted to the Tariafcion 
in the number of the fytl^les; the same cause produces a 
similar freedom in the disposition of the accents. We all know 
the liberty allowed to our poets in this Tespect at the beginning 
of a line ; it is a matt^ of indifbrenoe on which of the two 
first syllablea the accent is placed; buta poet, who emplt^s this 
metre, may be in a peculiar manner said in biciptti totmiare 
Pamatso ; every line, being composed of two short ones, has in 
&ct two beginnings, and enjoys a double portion of the rights 
and privileges attached to the first syllablea of a verse. We 
may well wonder that a measure of such boundless - variety 
should have been employed in English in those cases only, in 
which its peculiar excellence ia thrown away, in detached 
stanzas, or at most in short poems, where neither variety cwx 
find space to charm, nor monotony to disgust. It is still more 
astonishing, that in Germany, where all its capabilitiea had been 
displayed six centuries ago in a great poem which even now 
remains unequalled, later poets betook themselves to importing 
their metres from a dead language instead of cultivating their 
native aoil, and mimicked the lively vigour of old Qreece with 
the galvanic convulsions of the accentual hexameter. 

But it ill becomes a translator to inveigh against even servile 
imitatora ; he is not so much as an imitator even of the lowest 
class. He cannot be said to build on another man's foundation; 
he does not aspire to build at all ; it is his humble task to 
present a &int shadowy image of an edifice that has been rtused 
by mighlaer hands. The domun of thought, the empire of the 



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leelings — in these he Ima no sHare. He tbinkB with another 
man's head, he feels with another man's heart ; ereity thing 
that he seems to poBsesa, except words alone, is the property of 
hia superior. Even here he claims more than his due ; he is 
scarcely so much as "a wandering voice;" his veiy tongue u 
only half his own, for the words th^ he utters are suggested hy 
the language of another. Yet, though he cannot think, he is a 
channel of thought ; he communicates feelings, though those 
feeUngs are none of his ; he is at least the conductor of an 
ethereal Same. Though he ia thoroughly and essentially mortal, 
though he has no independent power, though he only exists by 
ihe grace of his original, yet he does not leave his creator 
altogether without a return. He extends the sphere of his 
master's renown, and levels before him the bEuricades of 
language -, he is the humble but useful pioneer, who opens new 
regions to the march of Genius, and, though the meanest soldier 
in the armies of literature, he assists his general to conquer the 
world. 

I have already stated that I have translated &om Dr. Braun- 
fels's edition of the original. This moat useful book contra 
the addition of a modernized version, and a concise glossary. 
The text is in substance the same as Professor Ijachmann's, 
Some ingenious emendations of passages, evidently corrupt, 
which the Professor had only proposed, have been received into 
it. It contains moreover 143 stanzas, most of them from the 
Lassberg manuscript. As Dr. Braunfels has inserted them in 
his text, and both he and Dr. Simrock have modernized them, I 
did not like to leave them out, though some of them might have 
been better omitted. Though, however, for the sake of con> 
vemcnce I have translated from Dr. Braunfels's edition, the 
reader must not suj^iose that it supersedes Professor Lach- 
mann'a. The former is excellent in its way, but whoever would 



go below the surface moat have recourae to the latter. I ooght 
Dot to conchide this pre&ce vithoat acknowledging my obliga- 
tionB to the different mod^s Qerman versions of the ffibelun- 
genlied. It is not merely the readers of the modem language 
that are benefited by the labours of Messrs. Braunfels, Simrock, 
Marbach and Beta ; their Teraions are faithful as weU as eleguit, 
and are scarcely less to be i^arded as instructive commentaries 
than as attractive poems. 



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52, line 2. Pat • eamnift lAet ' nnippniaeli'd' 

139, „ 3. For ' Dot the bliu' retd < not all the Uin' 

183, „ 4. For < loo' rod ' to' 

674, „ 4. Put s BemiooloD after ' sorrow' 



,. 1052, , 


., 1. 


Pat I conmu kfter ' creait' 


T. il09, , 


, 3. 


Potacommiafter'ent' 


„ 1126, 


» 2. 


For ■ moaareh' read ' monarch' 


„ 1453, , 


., 4. 


Omit the oonuna after ' outCMt' 


,. 1«2, , 


f 1- 


Fm -to' read- for' 


,. 1606, , 


, 3. 


Futafbllitopifler'bide* 


„ 1608. , 


,, 1. 


Put a comma after 'not' 


„ 1692, , 


. 3. 


Pot' jou' read' jonr' 


„ 1797, , 


. *■ 


Omit the comma after < doomada?' 


,. 1B05, , 


,i 3. 


pDt a comma aAcr ' tarnics' 


„ 1897, , 


. 4. 


For ' lare' read ' bU;' 


» 1923, , 


, 1. 


Put a aemicoloD after ' done' 


„ 1991, , 


.. 1. 


Fot -table' read 'tables' 


„ 228!, , 


„ 2. 


Put a Dote of admiration after < beudg' 


„ 2392, , 


., 3- 




., S<M, 1 


.. 1- 


Put a note of admiraiion aflar ' welawa 


lotetoStiniaSSO. 


Pot ■ inlerpretilion' read ' imputation' 



PREFACE. 
Page X. liuB 1. Fot ' woke, she* read ' woke' 



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THE FALL OF THE NIBELUNGER8. 



FIRST ADVENTTIEE, 

EBIEMalLS'B DBSAM. 
1. 

lit atorieB of our fatbera high marvels we are told 
Of cliainpionB well approved in penis muiifold. 
Of feoBts and meny meetings, of weeping and of wail, 
And deeds of gallaat duing I '11 tell you in my tale. 

2. 
In Bui^^mdy there flonriBh'd a mud so iair to see, 
That in all the world together a fairer could not be. 
This nuiden'sname was Kiiemhild; through her in dismal strife 
Full many a prowest warrior thereafter lost his life. 

8. 
iSanj a fearless Gliain[»on, as anch well became, 
Woo'd the lovely lady ; she &om none had blune. 
Matchless was her person, matchless was her mind. 
This one maiden's virtue grac'd all womanhind. 

4. 
Three puissant Kings her guarded with all the care they might, 
Ounther and eke Gemot, ea«h a redoubted knight. 
And Giselher the youtb&l, a chosen champion he ; 
This lady was their siater, well lov'd of all the three. 



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a FIBST ADTEKTUBS. 

s. 

Th<7 were high <tf lineage, thereto mild of mood. 
But in field and foray champions fierce oni rude. 
They rul'd a mighty kingdom, Burgundy by name ; 
They wrought in Etzel's country deeds of deathlese iame. 

6. 
At 'Worms was their proud dwelling, the Bhine &ir flowing by, 
There had they suit and service from haughtiest chiyalry 
for broad lands and lordships, and glorious was their state, 
Till wretchedly they perish'd by two noble ladies' hate. 

7. 
Dame Uta was their mother, a queen both rich and sage ; 
Their father hight Dancrat, who the fair heritage 
Left to his noble children when he hia course had run ; 
He too by deeds of knighthood in youth had worship won. 

8. 
Each of these three princes, as you hare heard me say. 
Were men of mighty puissaiice. They had beneath their sway 
The noblest knights for liegemen that ever dwelt on ground ; 
For hardihood and prowess were none so high renown'd. 

9. 
There was Hagan of Trony of a noble line. 
His brother nimble Dankwart, and the knight of Metz, Ortwine, 
Bckewart and Gary, the mat^raves stout in fight, 
Polker of Alzeia, full of manly might. 

10. 
Bumolt the steward (a, chosen knight was he), 
Sindolt, and Hunolt ; these serv'd the 'brethren three. 
At th^ court discharging their several duties well ; 
Besides, knights had tiiey many whom now I cannot tell. 



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EBIKUHILD S DBEAU. •> 

U. 

Sankwart was marshAl to the king his lord, 

Ortwine of Metz, his nephew, was carver at the bowl, 

Smdolt he was butler, a champion choice and true, 

The chamberlain was Hunolt ; they ms\i their duties knew. 

12. 
The gorgeous pomp andapIendour,whereintheBebrethrenreign'd, 
How well they tended knighthood, what vorehip they attain'd. 
How they thro' life were merry, and moch'd at woe and btde — 
"Who 'd seek all this to tdl you, would never end his tale. 

IS. 
A dream waa dreamt by Eiiemhild the virtuous and the gay, 
How a wild young Mcon she train'd for many a day, 
Till two fierce eagles tore it ; to her there could not be ' 

In all the world such sorrow as this perforce to see. 

14. 
To her mother TJta at once the dream she told, 
But she the threatening fiiture could only thus unfold ; ^ 

" The Mcon that thou trainedst is sure a noble mate ; 
God shield him in his merty, or thou must lose him etraight." 

15. 
" A mate for me P what say'st thou, dearest mother mine ? 
Ne'er to love, asBure thee, my heart will I resign. . 

I'll live and die a maiden, tmd end ae I began, •- 

Nor (let what else befall me) will suffer woe for man." 

16. 
" Nay," said her anxious mother, " renounce not marriage so ; 
"Would'st thou true heartfelt pleasure taste ever here below, 
Man's love alone can give it. Thou 'rt &ir as eye can see, -■ 
A fitting mate Gkid send thee, and nought will wanting be." 



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4 BECOFD ADTTSTTrBB. 

17. 

" No more," tlie maiden answer' d, "no more, dear mother, b^; 
iProm mwiy a woman's fortune this truth is clear as day, 
That falsely smiling Fleaaure with Pun requit«s as ever. 
I &om both will keep me, and thus will aorrow nerer." 

18. 
So in her lofty Tirtues, bnty-ftee and gay, 
Liv'd the noble maiden many a h^py day, 
Nor one more than another found fitvour in her nght ; 
Still at the laat ehe wedded a far-renowned knight. 

19. 
He was the self-same Mcon she in her dream had seen. 
Foretold by her wise mother. What vengeance took the queen 
On her nearest kinsmen who him to death had done ! 
That single death atoning died many a mother's son. 



SECOND ADVENTURE. 



Ib Netherlaud then flovitiah'd a prince of lofty kind 
(Whose father hight Siegmund, his mother Siegdind) 
In a Bumjituous castle down by the Bhine's fair side ; 
Men did call it Xanten ; 't was famous f^ and wide. 

21. 
I tell you of this warrior, how &ir he was to see ; 
Trom shame and dishonour liv'd he ever free. 
Forthwith fierce and famous waz'd the mighty man. 
Ah ! what height of worship in this world he wan ! 



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OP SUQFSIXD. Q 

22. 
d did call him, that same champion good ; 
Manj a kingdom sought he in hia manly mood, y 

And through strength of body in many a land rode he. / 

Ah ! what men of valour he found in Burgundy ! 

28. 
Before this noble champion grew ap to man's estate, 
His hand had mighty wonden achiev'd in var'a debate, 
"Wheieof the voioe of rumour vill ever sing and say. 
Though mndi most paaa in silence in this our later day. 

24.. 
In hia fresheat season, in hia youthful days, 
One might full many a marvel tell in SiegMed'a praise, 
What lofty honoura grao'd him, and how feir hia fame. 
How he charm'd to love him many a noble dame. 

25. 
Aa did well befit him, he was bred with care, 
And hia own lofty nature gave him virtuea rare, 
From him hia Mher'a country grace and honour drew. 
To eee him prov'd in all things so noble and bo true. 

26. 
He now, grown np to youthhead, at court his duty paid ; 
The people. eaw him gladly ; many a wife and many a maid 
Wish'd he would often thither, and bide for ever there ; 
^ey view'd him all with favour, whereof he well was ware. 

27. 
The child by his fond purents waa deck'd with weeds of pride, . 
And but with guards about him they seldom let him ride. 
TJptrain'd whs ho by sagca, who what was honour knew, 
So might he win i^ lightly broad lauds and liegemen too. 



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« BEOOITD ASTENTVBE. 

28. 
Nov bad he strength and stature that weapons well he bore ; 
Whatever thereto needed, he had of it full atore. 
He began fiiir ladies to his loye to woo. 
And they indin'd to SiegMed with faith and bononr true. 

29. 
Then had hia father Siegmnnd all his Uegemen tell, 
With Ub dear friends to revel it would please him vreQ. 
Where other kings were dwelling the tidingH took their course. 
To friends and eke to strangers he gave both weed and horse. 

80. 
Whosoe'er was worthy to become a knight 
For his lofty lineage, did they each invite, 
High-bmrt yooths and raliant to the (eastful board ; 
With the yotmg king Siegfried took they then the sword. 

81. 
Of that proud feast royal wonders one might say ; 
Eing Siegmnnd and queen Sieglind well might they that day 
Wia honour for the bounty the^ shower'd vrith lavish hand, 
For which full jnaaj a stranger came flocking through their land. 

82. 
Sworded squires four hundred rich raiment had to wear 
With the noble Siegfried. Full many a maiden fiair 
Ceaseless plied the needle to please the vrarrior bold ; 
FredouS atones unnnmber'd the women set in gold 

83. 
(For gold was there in plenty), and as each could best 
For the love of SiegMed th^ voit' d the jewel'd vest. 
The Host raia'd seats unnumber'd for many a martial wight 
On the &ir midsummer when his heir was dubb'd a knight. 



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OF SIBOFBtSD. 7 

84. 
f orttviUi to the high minster flock'd many a equire along. 
And many & knight of worahip. To fitly txiun the young 
The old should lend that service which once to them was lent. 
They pasa'd the hours in pastime and gentle merriment. 

85. 
But first to God's due honour a holy maes they sung, 
Ajid then a press and atmggle aroae the crowd among, 
And then with pomp befitting each youth was dubb'd a knight. 
In sooth, before was never seen so fair a sight. 

86. 
All ran at once, where saddled muiy a war-horse stood. 
In the court of Si^mond the tourney was so rude. 
That both hall and palace echoed far around, 
Aa those high-mettled champions shock'd with thundeiing sound; 

87. 
Old and young together fiercely hurtling flew, 
That the shiver'd lances swept the welkin through ; 
Splinters e'en to the palace went whizzing many a one 
From hands of mighty champions ; all there was deMy dime. 

88. 
The Host bad.cease the tourney ; tl^e steeds were led away ; 
Then might you see, all shattei'd how many a shield there lay, 
And store of stones full predous from bucklers beaming sheen 
In those fierce shocks were scatter'd upon the trampled green. 

89 
Thence went the guests in order, and sat around the board ; 
Many dainty dishes their wearied strength restor'd. 
And wine, of all the richest, their buroing thirst allay'd : 
To firienda alike and strangers was fitting honour pay'd. 



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S SECOHD ADTEHTVBS. 

Albeit ia ceaselesB pastime they spent the livelong iay, 
Tlie mnuunerB and the minetrela never ceaa'd their play. 
They flock'd to golden largeea, a roving frolic band, 
And pour'd a flood of praisea on Siegmund's fertile land. 

41. 
The king, too, aa his father to him before had done, 
Enfeoff'd with lands and castles Siegfried hia youthful son ; 
CHfts to his BWord-companions he gave vith liberal hand, 
So glad was he, it pleased them to come into his land. 

12. 
The gorgeous f^t it laeted till the seventh day was o'er ; 
Siegelind the wealthy did as they did of yore ; 
She won for vaUimt Siegfried the hearts of young and old, 
'Wlien for his sake among them she shower'd the ruddy gold. 

48. 
Tou scarce conld find one needy in all the mintitrd band ; 
Horses and robes were scatter'd with ever open hand. 
They gave as though they had not another day to Eve, 
ISaae were to take so ready, as they inclin'd to give. 

44. 
So was diflBolv'd with honour the mighty featival : 
The high-descended Barons assembled there in hall 
That youth were veil contented as Iwd to serve and sue, 
But that deair'd not Siegfried, the champion stout and true. 

45. 
'While Siegelind and Si^mund yet liv'd and flourished there, 
Full little reck'd their ofispring the royal crown to wear. 
He only would be master and exercise command, 
'Gainst those whose pride o'erweeningdisturb'dthe peaceful land. 



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HOW eiXQFBICS CAUE TO, TOEMB. 
46. 

None ventoT'd to deff him ; smoe weapons first he took, 
The bed of eloth but seldom the noble knight could brook. 
He only scHight for battlee ; his prowesB-gifted hand 
Won hini;renown eternal in every foreign strand. 



THIBD ADVBNTUEE. 

HOW 8II&rBIXB OAUB TO WOBUS. 

47. 
'TwAB seldom teen or sorrow the warrior's heart assay'd ; 
At length be beard the rumour, how a lorely maid 
In Burgundy was dwelling, the faireat of the iair. 
Tiata her he won much pleasure, but daeh'd with toil and cure. 

48. 
By fiune her peerless beauty was bruited for and wide. 
Nor leas her lofty virtue, and her pure yiigin pride 
Was day by day reported among the martial band. 
This drew guests ever flocking to good king Gunther's land. 

48. 
For ^ the' host of euitore that sought to bend her will, 
Tme to her owa. coy promise remiain'd fair Kriemhild still, 
That she, for all their wooing, would love vouchsafe to none. 
He was a distant stranger, who at last her favour won. 

50. 
Then sought the «m of Sieglind to gain tixe haughiy &ir ; 
The vows of other suitors to his were light as adr. 
Such knight deserv'd to vanquish the coyest maiden's pride ; 
Ere long the noble Kriemhild became boM Siegfried's bride. 



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10 THIBD iDTZNTUHI. 

51. 

Hiii kimnnen and hia liegemea then gave ^im counsel true. 

That now, if he in honour were mclin'd to woo, 

He should be bound in wedlock to no unequal make : 

Then said the noble Siegfried, " Sure wiU I iair Kriemhild take, 

52. 
The bright Burgondian maiden, best gem of Gunther's throne, 
Whose &r-renowned beautj stands unapproach'd alone ; 
On e&rth nor king nor keiaar lives there so proud, I ween. 
But he might deem him happy to win so fair a queen." 

68. 
Forthwith were the tidings to Biegmund'a ear prefeir'd ; 
Jf' w anzioua liegemen told him ; &om them his father heard 
The high design of Siegfried ; it much to heart he laid. 
That he aspir'd so boldly to win so fair a mud. 

Bi. 
The news came eke to Sieglind, the noble monarch's wife ; 
Full sore the mother trembled for her darling's life, 
For well she knew fierce Qunther and his vassals stem ; 
So strore they both the champion from his high empnEe to turn. 

56. 
Then spoke the raliant Siegfried, " Dearest father mine. 
The love of high-bom women for ever I'll resign, 
Bather than play the wooer bat where my heart is set." 
Howe'er they sought to more him, but small success th^ met. 

66. 
" Since nought can then dissuade thee,' ' ontspake his royal sire, 
- " Qhid em I, blood of Siegmund should to such height aspire, 
And BO thy hopes to forward I'll do the beat I can ; 
Yet in his court has Ounther maiiy a proud o'erweeoing man. 



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HOW JIEOFBtBD CAMS TO WOBUS. 11 

'57. 

E'ta were there none bat Hagotvthat redoubted knight 

In pride can match the proudeflt, the mightieBt in might ; 

So that, my son, I fear me, tin* hour we both may rue, 

If our minds aie settled the stately maid to woo." 
68. 

" What caa iQ befall us ?" Siegfried made reply ; 

" If that misproud Buigundian my friendly suit deny, y -; 

Be sure, as mucb and moie too, I'll seize by strength of hand ; / 

In this I trust to strip him of liegemen and of land." 
69. 

"Little thy words content me," the hosty prince replied, 

" In the land of King Gunther thou sure durst never ride, , . 

If, oa the Bhine, young Siegfried, this tale were only told. 
Ounther and eke Gemot I know them both of old. 

60. 
Bf ibrce, &ir son, assure thee, cao none the maiden woo," 
Sesum'd the princely Bi^mund, " this I haye heard for true ; 
But if with knights to back thee, thou'lt ride to Gunther's land, ' ,- 
Ve've friends enough, and forthwith I'll eummon all the band." ' 

61. 
" 'Tis not to me well pleasing," the fiery yoatii replied, 
" That I the Bhine should rieit with warriors by my side 
As in array of battle, and 'twould my honour stain, ,;' 

If I should need assistance the peerless maid to gain. 

62. 
I little care to win her sare by my own good hand ; 
With comrades but eleven I'll hence to Qunther's land. " i 

Thus far, father Siegmund, you of help I pray." 
Titea his friends, to trim their gurments, receiv'd strip'd fur* 
and gray. 

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12 TBIBD ADTEKTUBE. 

63. 

To his mother Sieglind the heavy news they bore \ 
The queen straight for her Siegfried began to sorrow sore. 
She Bhudder'd lost the Wd one should all untimely die 
By the fierce knights of Gunther, and wept fiill bitteriy. 

64. 
Then in haste went Sieg&ied where she her moan did make. 
And thtts bis sobbing mother tenderly bespalie, 
"Weep not for me, dear mother, in better hope tepose, 
Count me for ever scathlees e'en 'midst a thousand foes. 

65. 
So give me all that's needful through Burgundy to ride, 
That I and mine may journey with such &ar weeds supplied 
As best becomes companions of high degree to wear, 
And firom my heart I'U thank thee for all thy love and care." 

66. 
" Since nou^t avails to stay thee," so spake his mother mild, 
" I'll equip thee for the journey, my dear, my only child, 
Thee and thy bold companions, and send thee richly dight 
With weeds the best and feirestthat e'er were worn by knight." 

67. 
Then to the queen yonng Siegfried in duty bent him low, 
And said, " Upon this journey I would not that we go 
Slore than twelve blether, so these with robes provide. 
I<u]l fain am I to witness how standa it with my bride." 

68. 
Fair women at the needle were sitting night and day ; 
Scarcely could a seamstress head on pillow lay. 
Till robee were work'd for Siegfried and all his company. 
The youth vraa ever yearning to start for Buigondy. 



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now SIXQFBIED CAUE TO WOBHB. IS 

69. 

Hia Bire prepar'd hie armour, and nothing left nndone. 
That he might leave hie country as fitted Siegmund's son ; 
"Well temper'd were their hreaat-plateB that flash'd against the 

light, 
Of proof were their morions, their bucklers broad and bright. 

70. 
Their way they now were ready to Burgundy to take ; 
Then man and wife were heavy with Borrow for their B^e, f 

Leflt evil ehovld befal them, and bw their homeward road. 
With weapona and apparel the heroes bad the aumpters load. 

71. 
High-mettled were their chargers, gold-bright their riding weed. 
None ever rode more proudly (little were there need) 
Than then did noble Siegfried, and tbat &ir company 
That with him leave were taking, all bound for Burgundy. 

72. 
The king and queen, each weeping, gave him leave to part, 
And he to both gave comfiirt with a loving heart. 
" Weep not," said he, " dear parents, of better courage be, 
I'm safe where'er I travel, bo take no thought for me." 

.78. 
Ah ! woe were then the wairiorB, and wept, too, many a maid, 
Their hearts, I ween, the fiiture in deepest gloom array'd, 
And told them, from that journey many a dear Mend would bleed. 
IVill cause had they for Borrow, it brought them woe indeed. 

74. 
On the seventh fair morning by Worms along the strand 
In knightly guise were pricking the death-defyingband. ^ ^ 

The ruddy gold fau? glitter'd on every riding veat j "^ 

Thar steeds they meetly govem'd, all pacing soft abreast. 

">'-«!= 



U THIBD ADTEKTUSE. 

75. 
Their Bhields were new and maaBy and like flame they glow'd, 
Aa bright too shone their belmeta, while boLl Si^ftied rode 
Straight to the couit of Giinther to woo the stately maid ; 
Eye nevei look'd on ch&mplonB bo gorgeonsly anay'd. 

76. 
Down to their qivirs loud clanging rea«h'd the aworda they wore ; 
Sharp and well teinper'd lancea the choBen champions bore. 
One, two apanB broad or better, did Siegfried sternly shake. 
With keen and cutting edges grim and ghastly wonnda to make. 

77. 
Their golden-colour' d bridles firm th^ held in hand ; 
Silken were their poitrala ; so rode they through the land. 
On all sides the people to gaze on them hegasi ; 
Then many of Ounther's liegemen swift to meet them ran. 

78. 
Many a haughty warrior, stout squire, and hardy knight. 
Went to receive the straogers ae fitting was and right, 
And, as to guests hig^ honour'd, did courteous serrice yield, 
Their steeds held as they lighted, and took &om each Ms shield. 

79. 
They were in act the chai^rB to lead away to stall, 
When the redoubted Siegfried quick to them did call, 
" N^ay, leave ua here the horses, we look not long to stay, 
Anon with my compuiiona I shall wend upon my way. 

80. 
Affairs of high concernment this squadron hither bring. 
So, whoBO knows, straight tell me where I may find your king, 
The wide-renowned Ghmther, who reigns in Burgundy." 
Then one who near was standing thus answer'd courteously, 



HOW BtSSfBISD CAHX TO WOBUB. 16 

81. 

" If 70U would find the monarch, you ueed not long to wait ; 
In yonder hall at leisure myself I left him kte 
BegM with all his wuriors ; there you may feast your eight ; 
In Rooth you!ll find about him fiill many a stately knight." 

82. 
Now to great king Gunther were the tidings told, 
That there had joumey'd thither hardy knights and bold, 
Tclad in fiashing armour and glittering vesture gay, 
But who and whence the strangers, could no Burgundian say. 

S3. 
Kuch wonder'd then the monarch, whence came the gallant band, 
That with 80 fair equipment had reach'd Burgundian land. 
And with so massy bucklers ; that none could tidings bring 
Of those heroic Btrangera, but little pleas'd the king. 

84. 
To Gunther then made answer the knight of Metz, Ortwine, 
A warrior bold and mighty, and of the loftieat hne, 
" Since none of as can tell you who these same kmghts may be, 
Send for my uncle Hagan ; let him the Btrangera aee. 

85. 
He knows the proud and puiaaant of every foreign land ; 
80 we, what now we gueas not, &om >ii'Tn ahall underatand." 
Him and his warlike vasaata the impatient Tring bad call, 
And soon redoubted Hagan strode tow'ring through the hall. 

86. 
"What would the king with HaganF" the warrior made demand. 
" Here in my hous^ are wand'rers irom some iar-distant land, 
Unknown to all around me ; observe the strangers well, 
And if thou e'er hast eeea them, the truth, good Hagao, t«ll." 



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THIBD ADTKNTUKE. 



"That will I straight," said Hagan; to a window then he went, 
jT And his eyes attentire on the strangers bent. 
J y "Well ple&a'd him their fair v^ture, and well their armour sheen. 
Yet sure the like he never in Burgundy had seen. 

88. 
" Whencerer come these championa whom chance to BhiiLelaDd 

brings, 
EJnga might thc^ be," said Hagan, " or messengers of kings. 
How highly bred their chargers ! how gorgeous theb array! 
Wherever lies their country, high-mettled lords are they." 

89. 
And thereto added Hagan, " this too I'll vouch for yet ; 
Albeit on noble Siegfried I never eyes have set. 
Still to aver I'll venture, that (let whate'er befidl) 
*Tis he that's stalking yonder, so stately and so tall. 

90. 
He brings some new adventure to our Burgondian land ; 
The valiant Kibelungers he slew by strength of hand, 
Nibelung and Shilbung the princes stem in fight, 
And since has many a wonder achiev'd with ^-surpassing might. 

91. 
As all alone and ludless he was riding once at will. 
As I have heard reported, he found beside a hill 
With N'iblung'e hoarded treasure full many a man of might ; 
Strange seem'd the^ to the champion, till he came to know 
them right. 

92. 
They had brought the treasure, as just then befell, 
Forth from a yawning cavern ; now hear a wonder tell. 
How those fierce Nibelungers the treasure would divide ; 
The noble Siegfried eyed them, and wonder'd as he eyed. 



7 Albeit I 
Still to 
'Tishe 



HOT aiXQTBIED CAHE TO W0BU8. IT 

93. 

He neuer etaae and nearer, dose watching still the dan, 
TUl they got eight of him too, when one of them began, 
" Here comes the atalwrat Siegfned, the chief of Netherluid." 
A strange adventure met he with that ffibelungere' band. 

94. 
TTim well receiv'd the brethren Shilbimg and Nibelung. 
With one accord they be^'d him, those noble princes young, 
To part the hoard betwixt them, and ever preBsing bent 
The hero'e wavering purpose till he yielded full consent. 

95. 
He saw of gems such plenty, drawn &om that dark abode. 
That not a hundred waggons could bear the costly load, 
Still more of gold so ruddy from the Nibelungers' hind. 
All this was to be parted by noble Siegfried's hand. 

96. 
So Niblung's sword they gave him to recompence his p^n. 
But ill was done the service, which they had sought so bin, 
And he so hard had granted ; Siegfried, the hero good, 
Fail'd the long task to finish ; this stirr'd their uigry mood. 

97. 
The treasure undivided he needs mnst let remain, 
When the two kings indignant set on him with their train, 
But Siegfried grip' dsharpBalmung (so hight their father's sword), 
And took from them their country and the beaming precious 
hoard. 

98. 
For Mends had they twelve champions, each, as avers my tale, 
A strong and sturdy gimt, but what could all avail P 
All twelve to death successive smote Siegfried's mastering hand. 
And ranquish'd chiefs seven hundred of the Kibelungera' land 



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18 THIRD ABTEUTUBB. 

99. 

With that good weapon Balmnng; hy snadoa fear diamay'd 
Both of the forceM swordamao and of the aword he away'd, 
TTiiBQinber'd youthful heroes to Si^fried bent that hour, 
ThemselTes, their hmds, their castles Bnbmittiiig to his power. 

100. 
Those two fierce Hnge blether he there depriVd of life, 
Then wag'd with pmssaat Albric a stem and duhiona strife. 
Who thought to take full vengeance for both hia masters slain. 
But feimdhiamightand manhood withSiegfried'snmtch'din vain, 

101. 
The mighty dwarf auccesaleaa atrove with the mightier man ; 
Like to wild mountain lions to th' hollow hill they ran ; 
He raviah'd there the cloud-cloak from struggling Albrie's hold. 
And then became the master of th' hoarded gems and gold. 

102. 
Whoever dar'd resist him, aE by his awOrd lay alain. 
Then bad he bring the treasnre back to the cave again. 
Whence the men of Mbhmg the same before had atirr'd ; 
On Albric last the office of keeper he confen'd. 

108. 
He took an oath to serve him, as his liegeman true, 
In all that to a master from his man is due. 
Such deeds," aaidheof Trony, "has conqu'iing Siegfned done; 
Be sure, such mighty puissance knight has never won. 

104. 
Yet more I know of SiegMed, that well yonr ear may bold ; 
A poison-spitting dragon he slew with courage bold, 
And in the blood then bath'd him ; this tum'd to horn his skin, 
And now no wei^ions harm him, as often proved has been. 



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HOW aiEGFBIED CAME TO WOBMB. 19 

105. 

Eeceire then thia young hero with &11 boconung state -, 
'T were Oladvis'tl to merit eo fierce a champioii'B hate. ;^ _> 

So lovdy is his presence, at once all hearts are won, "^ ' 

.And then his strength and course such wondrous deeds have 
done." 

106. 
Then spake the mighty monarch ; " thou counseUest aright. 
See how he stands full knightly, prepar'd for fiercest fight, 
He and his hardy comrades, the death-defying man ! 
Strdght we '11 descend to meet him as courteotiB as we can." 

107. 
" That be assur'd," said Hagan, " with honour may be done ; 
Of lofty kin is Siegfined, a mighty momvch's son. 
Me seemeth, if to purpose his bearing I have eyed, 
By heaven, 't is no light matter liatb bidd'n him hither ride." 

108. 
Then spake the couutiy's ruler, " he ehall be welome here, 
Bold is the knight and noble, that I discover clear, i >, 

And much shall it avul him on our Burgundian ground." ' / 

Then thither went king Gunther where he Sieg&ied found. 

109. 
The host and his companions so well received the guest. 
That nothing there was vantii^ that courtesy express'd ; / , 

And low inclin'd the warrior to all in presence there, ^ 

Since they had giv'n him greeting so friendly and so &ir. 

110. 
" I wonder much," said <}anther, " and fain would understand, 
Whence comes the noble Sieg&ied to this Borgundiwi land, 
And what he here is seeking at Worms upon the Bhine." "^ ' 

The gbest to tb« king made answer, "concealment is no art of 



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30 THIBD ADTXMTUBX. 

111. 

Afar I heard the tidings, e'en in my iather'B land, 

That here with you were dwelling (&iu would I know the band) 

/,' 2. ^Hie beat and proweat championa so Toic'd by all and aoiue. 
That ever king euTTOunded ; I'm therefore hither come. 

112. 
Tour own renown I've heard' too through all this country ring. 
That never eye of mortd haa seen so bold a king. 

H _^ Tour prowesB and your knighthood are vouoh'dhyhigh andlow, 
Kow ne'er will I turn homeward till thia by proof I know. 

113. 
I too am a warrior and shall a sceptre sway,, 
And I would fain bring all men perforce of me to say, 

>* f That I both landfl and linemen have nobly merited. 

Thia to maintain I'll freely pledge my honour and my head. 

114. 
Xow since you ace so fsunous for manhood and for skill, 

. . ~- Nought reck I, if my purpose be taken well or ill, 

^ - But all that's own'd by Gunther Til win by strength of hand. 
And force to my obedience his castles and his land." 

115. 
The king was lost in wonder, and with him all the rest, 
At such a strange pretension Irom that o'erweening gueat. 
Who claim'd his whole poBBeasions that stretch'd ao wide around. 
His Tsaaala heard the challenge, and for anger sternly fiown'd. 

lie. 

" How," cried the Valiant Gunther, " have I deflerv'd this wrong. 
That what my noble lather with honour rul'd BO long, 
I now should yield to any o'ermaater'd by his might F 
111 should I show, that I too can bear me like a knight I" 



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HOW STEQFRIED CAHE TO VORUB. 21' 

117. 

" I'll ne'er Tenoimce my purpoae," the fiery youth replied) 
" If through thy might thy country cannot in peace abide, 
111 take on me to rule it, and what I hold in fee, 
If thou by etren^h cuurt take it, shall ah'ke eubmit to thee. 

118. 
Let thy broad lands imd mine too be laid in equal scale, 
And whichsoe'er in battle o'er th' other ahaJl prevail. 
To him let idl be subject, the liegemen and the land." 
But Hagan sought, and G^not, auch purpose to withstand. 

119. 
"To us 'tis little pleasing," Gemot made reply, 
"ThatweshouldhmdB be seizing, whose lords should slaughter 'dhe 
That we may win unjustly ; our knda are fair and wide ; 
We Bxe their rightful mastere, and none they need beaide." 

120. 
Grimglar'dking Gunther's warriors (ofgatheringwrath the sign!)' 
Among them bwer'd the darkest the knight of Metz, OrtwineJ 
" It irks me much," exclum'd he, "tohear these words of pride. 
Sir King ! by haughty Siegfried thou'rt wrongfully defied. 

121. 
Were fbou and thy brave brethren stript of those urns you boaat^ 
While he to back his quarrel should bring a royal host, 
Eeia then I'd trust to teach him a humbler pitch to fly, 
And cower as tow before us, as now he mounteth high." 

122. 
Wroth was at this defiance the chief of Netherland. 
He cried, " thou durst not venture 'gaioat me to lift thy handl 
I am a mighty monarch, a monarch's man art thou ; 
E)hould twelve like thee resistme, twelve such to one should bow." 



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22 THIBS ASTESTCBE. 

K3. 

Then 'gm for swords call londly the knight of Metz, Ortwiue, 
The sister's son of Hagan, pride of his lofly line. 
It irk'd him that his uncle so long had silent stood. 
Bold Gemot interpodng thus eool'd his fieiy mood. 

124. 
"Ortwine!" aaidhei "be calmer; why thus to weapons nm? 
To US the TaJiant stranger no snch offence has done. 
We yet may part in kindness } I rede thee, wrath give o'er, 
And nuke a friend (tf Si^Med ; this stiU were to our credit more." 

126. 
" It well may irk," said Hagan, " bU us good knights of thine. 
That this imperious wanderer e'er rode unto the Bhine. 
Such strife-producing journey were better ne'er begun. 
Ne'er had the kings my masters by him so evil done." 

128. 
Thereto straight answer'd Sieg&ied, fiercely downing still, 
** If these my words, Sir Hagan, have chanc'd to please you HI, 
Be sure, high deeds of valour you at these hands sh^ see, 
Deeds, that e'en less may please you here in Burgundy.'* 

127. 
"This I alone," siud Gemot, " can turn &om evil end ;'* 
Bo all bis waniora bad he the stranger not offend 
With words that breath'd defiance, and thus the turmoU stsy'd ; 
And Siegfried too was thinking upon the stately maid. 



" How suits this strife with either F" the prudent v 
" How many chiefe soever should in this broil lie dead. 
By na would little honour, by you small gain be won." 
Thereto gave answer Siegfried, king Siegmund'e hau^ty son ; 



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BOW SISafBIED OAME TO VOSMB. 28 

129. 
" Bnt wherefore lingerefii Hagan, and wherefine proud Ortwino, 
That, with their Mends thus Bwanning apos the banks of Ehine, 
fTor one, nor other ventarefl a atzaoger's arm to brave F" 
Both kept onviUiiig silence, each counsel Gleniot gave. 

18a 
"You shall to OS be wekome," resum'd queen IJta's son, 
" You and your fiuthfol comrodeB, all and every one. 
"We shall be proud to aerve you, I and all kin of mine." 
Then for the guests 'twas order'd to pour king Qunther's wine. 

181. 
Then epoke the aov'rdgn ruler, " whatever our's ve call, 
Should you iu honour daim it, is at your Borrice all — 
Our peraoDB — our posaesdons — if so it seema you good." 
Thereat becane Sir Siegfried of somewhat nulder mood. 

182. 
Forthwith tlieir whole equipment ,down from their beasts was 

brou^t; 
For Siegfried and hia fellowa with fitting seal were sought 
Of all convenient chambers the choicest and the best. 
At length the bold Burgundians look'd friendly on their guest. 

US. 
Thencefbrtii were fitting honours paid him many a day, 
A thonsaod fold, be certain, more than 1 can say. 
This eam'd hia strength and valour ; ao gracious was his state, 
'Xwaa rare that any mortal could look on him with hate. 

184. 
Their hours th^ spent in pastime — the kings and all the rest — 
Whate'er the sport that pleas'dthem.'twaa Siegfriedplay'ditbest. 
Such was his skill and puissance, that none could come him near 
To hurl the atone tempestuous or dart the whizzing spear. 

^ si'^ 



24 THIKD ADTERTITBZ. 

183. 
Wbene'er before die ladies, all in courtlf guise, 
Flied the coBtencUng championa their knightlj exercise, 
Then all look'd on delighted aa noble Sie^ied strove ; 
Bot he his thoughts kept ever fii'd on his lofty love. 

186. 
At court the lovely ladies were asking evermore, 
Who was the stately atranger that so rich vesture Wotc, 
At once so &iT of presence and so strong of hand. 
Then many a one gave answer, " 'tis t^ king of Xetherlaad." 

187. 
He ever was ttie foremost, whate'or the game they play'd. 
Still in his inmost bosom he bore <me lovely maid. 
Whom he beheld had never, and yet to all preferr'd ; 
She too of him in secret qioke many« Madly wtnrd. 

188. 
When in the court contending fierce squire and liardy Inight, 
As fits the young and noble, wag'd the mimic fight, 
Oft EriembUd through her vrindow would look, herself unseen. 
Then no other pleasure needed the gentle queen. 

189. 
What then bad been his r^ture, could he have only gnesa'd. 
That on him she was looking, who reign'd vdthin his breast I 
Could he but once have seen her, I ween, not the bliss. 
That all the worid can lavish, would he have ta'en for this. 

140. 
Whene'er, as is the cuatom at intervals of sport. 
He midst the crowd of heroes was standing in the court. 
So graceful was the bearing of Sieglind's matcbleBS son. 
That t^ heart <^ every lady, that hwk'd on him, he won. 



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HOW BIEOFBISD fOITOHT WITH THE BAXONB. 26 

141. 

Oft too would he be tBinUiig, " how now can it be, 

That I the noble maiden with mine eyes may see, 

Whom I in heart love dearly, and so long have done ? 

And she's an utter stranger I Ah ! woe is me, unhappy one 1" 

142. 
Whene'er the kings it needed through their land to ride. 
Then kept their bithful liegemen attendance by their dde, 
And with them forth must Siegfried ; this irk'd his lady sore ; 
He through her love was pining the while as much or more. 

143. 
So with those kings, high honour' d, Siegmund'B noble son 
In Ounther'a land was dwelling till fiill a year wita run, 
JfoT, all that weary season, a single glimpse could gain * 

Of her, who after brought him such pleaaure and such ptun. 



rOUKTH ADVENTTJBB. 



JQHT WITH THE BAXOHB. 

Xow strange and stirring tidings were brought to Giinther's 

throne 
By mesBengers cbmmission'd from fcnreign chiefs unknown, 
Who bore the brethren malice, and whom they well might fear; 
When they receiv'd the message, right heavy wae their cheer. 

145. 
The same I now wiU tell you ; king Ludeger the bold, 
From the land of the Saxons (a mightier ne'er was told) 
Was leagued with him of Denmark, king Ludegast the strong 
And m^ny a &mouB warrior botii brought with them along. . . 



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26 rOUBTB ADTIKTirBB. 

146. 
Their mesB^igerB, hard riding, came to king Gunther's land. 
Aa his iaiTHliBtant foemen liad given them in command; 
Thrai aak'd the crowd, what tidinga the unknown gaesta might 

bring. 
To court they etraight were huiried, and set before the king. 

147. 
Them well the monarch greeted ; " yoa're weloome ; never fittr ; 
From whom you come, I know not, but willingly would hear. 
And it ia your's to tell me." So spake the monarch good. 
Then 'gan they sore to tremble at Guntber'a angry mood. 

148. 
** Since yon, oh king I permit na to utter plain and true 
This our high commiadon, nought will we hide from you. 
Our maetera we will tell you, who gave us this command, 
Eing Ludgaat and king Ludger will viait you in this land. 

149. 
You have deserved their anger ; for truth can I relate, 
That both our puissant masters bear yon deadly hate. 
They'll lead a hcwfc unnumber'd to Worms unto the Bhine. 
Of this be wam'd for c^-tain ; fix'd ia their proud design. 

150. 
Within twelve weeks at bithest their camp will onward go ; 
If you've good friends to aid you, 'twill soon be time to show. 
Their best wiU sure be needed to guard both fort and Md, 
Soon ahaU we here be shiv'ring many a helm and many a shield. 

161. 
Or would you aeek a treaty, let it at once be said. 
Ere their prevailing myriads one wasteful ruin spread 
Through all yonr Wide dominiona with thrar oonaunuDg might, 
And Death unsated feaat him on many a gallant knight." 

, , ,Coo^lc 



HOW BnoFBtKi) lovaar with the saxons. 27 

1B2. 
" Kow wait awbile, ye Htrangera," thus spake the noble king, 
" I must tUnk, ere I answer the mesaage tiuit 70U Ining. 
I've Mends and &ithftil liegemen, whose sage advice I use, 
And with them I must counsel take on this heavy nem." 

163. 
The nigh approaching danger irk'd king Gimther sore, 
And the proud defiance deep in heart he boie ; 
He sent for valiant Hagan and many another knight, 
And Gemot too had hasten with all the speed he might. 

154. 
At once they flock'd oroimd him, a stem and stately band ; 
Then spake the king,"proiid strffligerB,heTe,in ourowngoodland. 
Have sent to bid us battle ; weigh well aucb tidings told." 
Thereto etraight answer'd Gemot, a hardy knight and bold. 

166. 
" Then with our swords well meet them ; defiance we'll defy ; 
None but the death-doom'd perish, bo bravely let them die ; 
I'll ne'er forget my honour for all they choose to send. 
So fierce a ibe to Gemot is welcome as a &iend." 

166. 
" Bash hold I such hot counsel," said Hagan Trony's knight, 
" Both Ludegast and laidger are men of mickle might : 
In so few days onr vaesala we scarce can muster welL" 
He paus'd a space, then added, " the news to Siegfried tell," 

167. 
Abanwhile they lodg'd the strangers within the city iair; 
Though ^ were foes around t^m, king Gunther bad them share 
All courteous eiitertoinment ; so fitly dealt the king. 
Till he bad leam'd, wbaS fotoes he might together bnug. 



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28 FOttBTH ASTEKTtFBE. 

168. 

Bight ill at ease was Gunther ; Ub brow was clouded o'er ; 
A gallant knight, who mark'd lum what be&vy cheer he hore, 
Who had not heard the tidings, nor thns the truth could guess. 
With friendly will thus mov'd him his sorrow to confera. 

169. 
" I wonder much," aaid Siegfried, " why I of late have seen 
With care so oTershadow'd that fi'ank and merry mien. 
That gave a zeat to pleasure, wad heighten'd each delight." 
Whereto gave answer Gunther the far-renowned knight ; 

160. 
" To all the world I cannot my bitter bale impart ; 
Bear it I must, and wrap it close in my inmost heart. 
Bosom woea can only to bosom frienda be said." 
Thereat the hue of Siegfried wax'd both white uid red. 

161. 
He thus bespake the monarch, " I ne'er denied yon ought. 
And now wiL serve you truly, whate'er be in your thought. 
Need you friends, king Gunther ? no firmer friend than 1. 
Is it a deed of danger f I'U do it, or I'll die." 

162. 
" Now God reward yon, Siegfried; your words they please mewdl ; 
E'en should your strength avail not this danger to repel, 
There's comfort in such friendahip as you have shown to-day. 
Let me live a little loi^;er, well will I tH repay. 

168. 
And now my source of sorrow, Sir SiegMed, you shall know ; 
It comea of two proud princes, each my deadly foe. 
Who me with war would visit, and all my lands o'errun, 
A deed, that here 1^ warrior before was never done." 



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HOV anOFBIBIl FOUaBT WITH TBK BAXaRS. 29 

164. 
"Take little thought," said Siegfried, " of them and their emprize ; 
Calm but your anxious spirit, and do as I advise. 
Let me for you adratitage aa well as honour win, 
And bid at once to aid you your warriors hasten in. 

166. 
If your o'erweening fbemen can together call 
Thirty thousand champi<ms, 1*11 stand against them all 
With but a single thousand ; for that re^ on me." 
" For this," replied king CKinther, " Fm ever bound to thee." 

i66. 
" 3o &om your army ^ve me a thousand men at most, 
Since I, who well could muster at home a gallant host, 
Have here twelve comrades only ; thus will I guard your land. 
Count on true service ever &om SiegMed's faithful hand. 

.167. 
And Hagmi too shall help ns, and with Him stout Ortviine, 
Dankwart and Sindolt those loving lords of thine, 
And fear-de^ring Folker shall our companion be ; 
He shaU bear our banner ; better none than he. 

168. 
And forthwith bid the env<^s back to their lords return : 
Tell them they soon shall see us, and to their cost shall learn 
How we devise protection for castle and for town." 
Straight call'd the king his kinsmea and the suitors of his crown. 

169. 
The messengers of Ludger before th' assembly went ; 
Theyheardvrithjoy and gladness that home they would be sent. 
With costly presents Ghinther their parting steps pursued. 
And with them sent an escort j this raia'd fiiU high their mood. 



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so TODBTH ADTENnrEB. 

170. 

" Te tneesei^en," said Gunther, " thus to your maaterB eay. 
They'd beet be pricking homeward as qiiickly^ ae they may; 
Or, shoidd they please to seek ub among our liegemen true, 
Xet but our Menda be bithflil, ve'll find them work to do." 

171. 
Then fbrth the coatly presents to the messengera they bore ; 
Enough, be sure, and more too king Gunther had in store. 
King Ludeger's men to take them in sooth were nothing coy : 
Then leave they took of Gunther, and parted thence with joy. 

172. 
Now when back to Draunark were come the envoys bold. 
And to the atout king Ludgast had the tidinga told, 
How they o! Bhine were coming, fierce war themselves to briu^ 
To hear of their high courage troubled sore the king. 

178. 
8ud they, " yon proud Buig;audian has many a man of might. 
But for the first and foremost we maik'd a matchless knight. 
One that men caU Siegfried, achief of Netherlaud." 
HI fiireboded Lodgaat from such a foe at hand, 

174. 
When to them of Denmark were these tidings told. 
The more their friends they Bummtm'd to muster manifold, 
Vol press nor hasty message did stout Sir Ludgaat slack, 
TiQ twenty thousand champions were marching at bis bock. 

175. 
Alike to brave Sir Ludger did his Saxons throng. 
Till they in arms had gatfaer'd full forty thousand strong, 
Beady at his bidding through Bui^undy to ride, 
KoT Ices at home did Gnnther his men at arms provide. 



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Hov snoTsm) rovasT with thx saxokb. 81 

176. 
Hifl UnaineB and his brethren he hegg'd at osce to efpeed, 
And to the war that dai'd them their mnster'd vaseab lead. 
And death-deling Hagan ; they gather'd l^ and nigh. 
Full many a chief thereafter that jonmey brought to die. 

177. 
They one and all were stirnng ; no loiterer was there ; 
The danger-dartng Tolker the standard was to bear. 
To cross the Shine they purpos'd and leave their natire land. 
Hagwi the knight of Trony was muahal of the band. 

178. 
With them too rode Sindolt, and with them Hunolt hold, 
BoQt resolv'd by aervice to earn king Ghmther's gold, 
And Dankwart, Hftgan's brother, and the brave Ortwine 
Alike would seek for honour in the march b^ond the Bhine. 

17&. 
" Sir king," said noble Siegfiied, " here ait at home and play. 
While I and your Tassals are fighting for away ; 
Here &dic with the ladies and many a merry mate, 
And truMk to me for guarding your honour and estate. 

180. 
Those.foes of your'a, that threaten'd as far as Worms to roam, 
I will be their surety, that they shall bide at home. 
So deep within thrar country we are resolv'd to ride, 
Xo wan shall turn their vaunting, to penitence their pride." 

181. 
IVom Ehine through Hesse advancing they rode upon their way, 
Towards the Saxon country, where after happ'd the &ay. 
Ear and wide they ravag'd sad fieiy brands they tosa'd, 
!K11 both tJie prineea heard it and felt it to tiieir cost. 



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POtTETB ADVKNTDBK. 



TIicj noir were on the borders ; then hasteo'd every sum, 
When the atalwart Siegfried thus to ask began : 
" Who shall be appointed to guard onr company ? 
Sure ne'er wae raid that threaten'd such iU to Saiony." 

183. 
They aoBwered, " let to Dankwart the chwge conunitted be 
To guaxd the young and heedless ; more ulmhle none than he. 
We thus the less shall sufier ftom ought our foes design. 
To him comnut the rearward, and vith him too Ortwine." 

184. 
" Myself alone," said Sieg&ied, " will ever forwai^ ride, 
Till I have found our foemen and aU their strength espied. 
Keep watch and ward unceasing till I this task have done." 
Then donn'd at once his armour &ir Sieglind's martial son. 
186. 

At parting he his people in chuge to Hagan gare, 
And with him eke to Ckmot the prudent and the brave ; 

Then all alone went riding through the wide Saxon realm ; 

And soon- that day he shaitter'd the band of many a helm. 
186. 

That mighty host next spied he, as wide encamp'd it lay. 

It might his sin^ puissance a hundred fold outweigh. 

Better than forty thousand were muster'd there for fight, 

Sir SiegMed mark'd their numbers, and gladden'd at the sight. 
187. 

Before the camp he noted a kuight, that on his ground 

Strong watch and ward kept heedful, and peer'd on all arotind. 

At once of him was Siegfried, and he of Sieg&ied waie, 

And each began cm the other angrily to glare. 



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HOW BIEaVBIED tOFOHT WITH THE BAXOBB. 33 

188. 
Who was this watchful warder, now you Bhall be told. 
At hatid by him lay ready a flashing ahield of gold. 
'Twas e'en the stout king Ludgaet, that watch'd his gather'd 

might. 
Fiercely upon the monarch sprung the stranger knight. 

189. 
Am fiercely too against him the fiery monarch sped; 
In the flank of the war-horse each dash'd the rowels red : 
The lance with all his puiseance each level'd at the shield, 
m chance befell king Ludgast in that dieastroue field. 

190. 
Beneath the spur blood-diipping the steeds together flew; 
Champion cloe'd with champion as though a tempest blew. 
Thenwheel'dtheyroundfuH knightly; each well thebridlesway'd; 
Again they met nnsated, and with blade encounter'd blade. 

191. 
Such strokes there struck Sir Siegfried, that all the field it rang ; 
At each, as e'en from torches, the fire-red ep^kles sprang 
From Ludgaat'a batter'd helmet. So strive they aU they can. 
And either stormy champion iu th' other finds his man. 

192. 
At Sieg&ied too Sir Ludgaet struck many a sturdy stroke ; 
Each on his foeman'e buckler his gather'd fury broke. 
Full thirty men of Ludgaet's meanwhile had spied the fray, 
But, ere they up could hasten, Siegfried had won the day. 

183. 
Thrice smote he the bright breast-plate, and pierc'd it through 

and through ; 
Thrice the blood in torrents from the king he drew. 
Those three strokes have ended that encounter keen. 
Down sunk woeful Ludgast groyelling on the green. 

D 

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84 JOITBTH ADTEHTDBE. 

194. 

He Btrai^t for life sued humbly, and yielded up Ub claim 
To all hie lands, sad told him that Ludgaat was his name. 
On this up came his warriors, who &om afar had seen 
The fight, that at the ward-port bo fiercely fought had been. 

19S. 
Thence Sieg&ied thought to bring faim, when suddea all the 

band 
Of thirty set upon liim ; well then the hero's hand 
MaintaJn'd his royal captive with many a mighty blow. 
The peeriese champion wrought them yet heavier loss and woe. 

196. 
He fought with all the thirty till all but one were slain ; 
To him his life he granted j he trembling rode amain, - 
And told the truth diBsatrons to all the gaping crew ; 
On his bloody helmet they might see it written too. 

197. 
Woe were the men of Denmark to hear the deadly tale ; 
Their king too was a captive ; thla added bale to bale. 
They told it to his brother ; he atraight to atorm began. 
Wroth was he to have suffer'd such loss by arm of man. 

198. 
So by the might of Siegfried was Ludgafit led away 
To where the men of Oimtber in watchful le^uer lay. 
And given in charge to Hagan ; when they came to hear 
The prisoner was king Ludgast, they scarcely shed a tear, 

199. 
Now rear they bad the banner the bold Burgondian crew. 
" Up !" cried the Bon of Sieglind, " more will be yet to do. 
If there be life in Siegfried, and that ere day be done. 
Woe to the Saxon mothers ! they'll weep ibr many a eon. 



HOW filXQTBIED FOUflHT WITH TIIE SAXOKS. 38 

200. 

Te hardy knightB of Bhinel^d, take of me good heed. 
Sight through the ranka of Ludger jouf valour will I lead. 
You'll see by hands of heroes helmets cleft amain. 
Shame shall they learn and sorrow ere we ride home agaon." 

201. 
At once to horse good Gemot and all his meiny spnmg, 
At once the glittering banner to the breeze was flung 
By the bold minstrel Folker ridii^ in the van ; 
So moved they on to battle, war-breathing every man. 

202. 
No more than e'en a thouaand went on the hard emprize ; 
With them twelve Htranger champions. Now 'gan the dust arise 
Along the paths they trampled ; they rode by copse and field, 
And BtarUed all the country with the flash of many a shield. 

203. 
Against them with their myriads came on the Saxons bold. 
Their swords they well were sharpen' d, as I have since been told. 
Keen cut the temper'd weapons in their well-practised hands. 
To guard from those fierce strangers their castles and their lands. 

204. 
The war-directing marshal led on the troop amain. 
And thither too fierce Siegfried brought up the scanty train 
That had his fortunes foUow'd from distant Netherland. 
Busied that day in battle was many a bloody hand. 

205. 
Sindolt and Hunolt and noble Gkmot too 
In the fierce encounter many a champion slew, 
Who, ere they felt their puissance, little thought to quail j 
Haoy k noble lady then had cause to waiL 
D 2 

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S0 TOTFKTH A]}TK!(T(TBE. 

206. 

Folker md Hagan, and eke the fiSrce Ortwine, 
Death-defying championa, dimm'd many a helmet's ahine 
"With bhxidy streajning torrents that down began to nm ; 
There too were by Sankwart mighty mairela done. 

207. 
Erory man of Denmark frankly tried his hand ; 
Ton might have heard a clatter ring throughout the land 
Of shiver'd shielda and aword-bladea ; 'sooth the work was rough, 
And the hurtling Saxons damage did enough. 

208. 
Where the stem Burgandians plimg'd into the strife. 
Many a wound waa given, and let out many a life. 
The blood from that red daughter above the saddles stood ; 
Woo'd ae a bride waa honour by heroes bold and good. 

209. 
But louder still and louder in eveiy hero's hand 
Claah'd the keeu-ground weapons, when those of Ifetherlaad 
Behind their charging master rush'd into the fight. 
On they came with Siegfried ; each bore him as a knight. 

210. 
Kot a lord of Bhineland could fallow where he flew. 
Ton might see red spouting the riven helmets through 
Sudden streams of slaughter where Siegfried smote around, 
Till he at last king Ludger before his comrades found. 

211. 
Thrice pierc'd he through the Sasons, and thrice retum'd again, 
From van to utmost rearguard still trampling down the slain ; 
Nor was it long, ere Hagan came up his part to bear. 
Downthenmustproudeat champions before th'unconquer'd pair. 



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BOW SIEQPBIED FOtTOHT WITH THE SAXONB. 37 

212. 

WLeH the stalwart Ludger saw noble Sieg&ied nigh, 
Who in his hand wide-waeting ever heav'd on high 
The Btorm-deacending Balmimg, and slew him many a sl^n, 
Grimly &own'd the monarch, and bum'd with wrath amaiiu 

213. 
Dire was the storm and atru^le, and loud the sword-blades 

clash'd, 
When both the thick battalions each on the other dasH'd, 
Bach angiy leader panting to meet in stem debate. 
The crowd began to scatter ; then fiercer rose their hate. 

214. 
Well the Saxon ruler that day perform'd his part ; 
To know his brother taken cut him to the heart. 
He heard it first reported, Gemot the deed had done, 
But now he knew for certain, 't was Sieglind's conqu'ring son. 

215. 
So burly were the buffets which Ludger dealt in field. 
That Siegfried's pHiting charger under the saddle reel'd. 
Soon as the steed recover'd, a fiercer passion atiir'd 
Hifl angry lord, and hotter through the red press he Bpurr'd. 

216. 
Then up to help him Hagan, and up good Gemot sped, 
Dankwart and Polker ; round lay in heaps the dead ; 
And Sindolt came, and Hunolt, and the good knight Ortwine. 
Down sunk the Saxons trampled by the warriors of the fihine. 

217. 
Close fought the chiefe, unsever'd 'spite of the hurtling bands 
Then might you see the lances &om mightiest heroes' hands 
Fly o'er the nodding helmeta, and pierce the bucklers through ; 
Many a glittering armour was dyed a bloody hue. 

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38 FOURTH ADTEKXirBE. 

218. 

In the fierce eQcoimter many a mighty man 
Tumbled &om the saddle ; each oq th' other ran 
Ludeger and Siegfried, each the other's peer ; 
Many a ehafb was flying, whizzing many a apeai. 

219. 
Off flew Ludger'a shield-plate by dint of Siegfried's hand. 
Then hxik'd at last for conquest the knight of Netherland 
Over the Btruggling Saxons, such force was in that stroke. 
Then too how many a breast-plate the strong-arm'd Dankwart 
broke! 

220. 
Just then it chaiic'd king Ludger had a crown espied 
Funted upon the buckler that guarded Siegfried's side. 
Straight knew the astonish'd Saion, 't was he, the mighty man, 
And to his friends the hero to call aloud began. 

221. 
" Stop ! stop I enough of fighting, my meny men each one ! 
Here in this bloody battle I've met with Siegmund'a son. 
The chief-destroying Siegfried for certain seen have L 
The devil has sent him hither to harry Saxony." 

222. 
He bad them lower the banners ; forthwith they lower'd them all ; 
And peace he then demanded ; 't was granted at his call ; 
But go he must a pris'ner to good king Gimther's land ; 
This was from him extorted by Siegfried's conqu'ring hand. 

223. 
With one accord agreeing the bloody strife they left ; 
The shining shields all ahiver'd, the helmets hack'd and cleft 
They laid aside o'er wearied ; whatever down they threw 
Bore from Burgundian felchiona a strain of bloody hue. 



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HOW SIEOFBISS F0U6HT WITH THE 8AX0V3. 89 

224. 

Theytook whome'er it pleaa'd them, none cotild theirwiU giuHsay. 
G«mot and valiuit Hagan at once bad bear away 
The fiunt and feeble wounded, and with them carried then 
Off to the lUune as captives five hundred chosen men. 

225. 
"With wailing back to Denmark the bootless warriors came ; 
The late o'erweening Saxons bore off but loss and ahame 
From that disastrous struggle ; each hung his pensive head. 
They last their Mends remember'd, and sorrow'd for the dead. 

226. 
Anon they bad the aumpters be loaded for the Bhine ; 
And thus victorious SiegMed his perilous design 
Had brought to full performance ; well had he done in fight ; 
This every man of Gunther allow'd him as of right. 

227. 
To Worms straight did a message &om good Sir Qemot come. 
To tell throughout the country to all his Mends at home 
"Whate'er in that encoimter to him and his befel. 
And how they all their duty had knightly done and well. 

228. 
The youths they ran their swiftest, and noia'd abroad the whole. 
Then laugh'd who late lamented ; delight succeeded dole. 
All bosoms straight were beating to learn the news they bore, 
And every noble lady would ask them o'er and o'er, 

229. 
How the knights of G-unther in Saxony had sped, 
Then too the lovelorn Elriemhild had one in secret led 
(For publicly she durat not) to a distant bower apart, 
For she would learn how fai'd it with the chosen of her heart. 



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230. 
Soon a^ to the chamber the melaacholy maid 
Saw the ^ouih approaching, sweetly thus she said, 
" Now tell me happy tidings, and I'll give thee gold in stor^ 
And if 't is truth thou tell'st me, I'll befriend thee evenuore. 

231. 
Tell me how in battle my brother Gemot sped, 
And all our Mends around him ; is any of them dead P 
Who pror'd the best and bravest ? this thou must tell me true." 
" No coward," the youth made answer, " had we in all the crew ; 

232. 
But sure to fight or foray (the simple truth to tell) 
Fair and noble princess ! rode never knight eo well 
As the noble stranger from distant Netherland. 
Wonders that mock believing were wrought by Siegfried's hand. 

233. 
However well the others have borne them in the fight, 
Dankwart and Hagan, and all our men of might, 
Howe'er deserv'd the honour, that other swords have won, 
'T is a puff of wind to Siegfried, king Siegmund'a glorious son, 

231. 
Well phed the rest the fiilchion, and wielded well the spear. 
But ne'er from tongue of mortal expect at full to hear 
What feats were done by Siegfried, when he broke the squadrons 

through; 
Those feats the weeping sisterB of slaughter'd brethren me. 

235. 
There lay the heart' s-beloved of many a mourning bride ; 
Beneath his sounding sword-strokea clefb morions, gaping wide, 
Let out the ruddy life-blood gushing fearfully. 
Sir Siegfried is in aU things the flower of chivahy. 



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HOT SIE&fRIES FOUGHT WITH THE BAXONS. 41 

236. 

There too won no email worsliip the knight of Metz, Ortwine ; 
Whomever reach'd the warrior with keen-edg'd ialchiou fine, 
Down went they &oni the war-horse, E)ome wounded, others dead. 
There too your valiant brother as wide the slaughter spread, 

237. 
As e'er was done, beUere me, since anniea met in fight ; 
So much mu^ all men vdtnesB of that redoubted knight. 
There too the proud Burgnndiaiis so nobly strove for &me. 
That well they have assur'd them from every taint of blame. 

238. 
Before their level'd hmces was many a saddle void ; 
Around the field re-echoed when they the sword employ' d. 
The noble knights of Shineland fought so well that day, 
Their foes had sure done wiser at once to flee away. 

239. 
The gallant men of Trony did deeds th^ well may boast, 
When with united squadrons to battle rode the host. 
What numbers fell by Hagan and Hagan's chivahy ! 
Long shall their glory flourish here in broad Burgundy. 

240. 
Sindolt and Hunolt, each Gemot's liegemen true, 
And nevep-daunted Bumolt so rush'd the foemen through, 
That ever will king Ludger repent his vain design 
To meet your royal brethren on the banks of Bhine. 

241. 
But of all feats, the fiurwt, that in that field befell, 
From first to last moat glorious, as all who saw can tell. 
Were those achiev'd frdl knightly by Siegfried's deadly hand. 
Now many a wealthy captive brin^ he to Gunther's land. 



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42 FOITRTH U)TEIfTVBE. 

242. 
Beneath Mb arm, EmbmiBaion the brother kings hAve leam'd ; 
Proud Sane and haughty Saxon alike defeat have eara'd ; 
Dead lie their loving vassals wide o'er the bloody green. 
Now to my tale yet listen, high and noble queen ! 

243. 
Now both are hither wending, the thralls of Siegfried's hand ; 
Chief ne'er such countteas captives brought to Burgundian land, 
As now to Bhine are coming, o'ennaatered by his might." 
Ne'er heard the royal maiden a tale of such ddight. 

244. 
" More than five hundred prisoners, for truth, high lady ! know. 
Unhurt, are hither coming ; fiill eighty biers, I trow, 
Trail on the deadly wounded : you soon will see them here ; 
The most bear bloody witness of Siegfried's sword and spear. 

245. 
Those kings, who late bo haughty would dare us on the Bhine, 
Must now to Qunther's pleasure their lives, their all resign. 
Our shouts salute their coming, our joy is on the gale." 
She brighten'd into blushes to hear the happy tale. 

246. 
Her cheek, late pale as lily, now glow'd with rosy red. 
To he« how youthful Siegfried so gloriously had sped, 
Bais'd from the depth of peril to loftiest height of fame. 
She joy'd too for her kinsmen as maiden well became. 

247. 
Then spake she midst her blushes, " well hast thou eoru'd thy 

meed, 
Well hast thou told thy story, so take thee costliest weed. 
And straight I'll bid he brought thee ten marks of ruddy gold." 
No wonder, to rich ladies glad news are gladly told. 

)^3 



FOrOHT WITH THE 8AX0K8. 



StraghtfortbwaBbrought theveature, end down thegoldwaa paid; 
Tben hurried to the windows fiiU many a lovely maid. 
And look'd out on the highway, nor long delay'd to spy 
The high-descended Tictore retum'd to Burgundy. 

249. 
The safe and sound came forward ; the wounded did the same ; 
Merry waa the meeting ; none fear'd reproach or blmne. 
F(H-th rode the hoBt to meet them ; hia mirth had no aUoy ; 
The woe, that long had worn him, waa now ahut up in joy. 

250. 
His. own fidl well receiv'd he, and well the strangers k>o ; 
Sure nothing so befitting could wealthy monarch do. 
Than kindly greet Bueh victors as now bis court had sought 
With gain of such dear honour from field so sternly fought. 

251. 
Then ask'd the noble Qnnther of the conquering train, 
How many of hia warriors had in the strife been slain. 
There had been lost but sixty in the fight they won. 
They were moum'd and foi^otten, as with many has since been 
done. 

252. 
Th'unwounded bore esulting, grim trophies of the field, 
Full many a batter'd morion, :Aill many a shiver'd ehield. 
Before the hall of Gunther from horse the champions sprung j 
Around from ioyful thousands one shout of welcome rung, 

253. 
The warriors in the city were lodg'd as might he beet ; 
The king with coiurteous service bad wait on every guest. 
He found the hurt fit chambers for tendance and repose, 
And prov'd his noble nature in the treatment of his foes. 



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44 FOURTH ASTEHTUBE. 

254. 
Thus he said to Lndgast, " TCJn g Ludgaet, welcome here. 
Much at your bsuda I've su&er'd, and more had cause to fear ; 
Bat all's at full repaid me, if smooth my fortune rim. 
God requite my warriorB I they well for me have done." 

2S5. 
"Ay! you may gladly thank t]iem,"aMdLudgep, " 'tis their due j 
King ne'er had such high captives ae they have won for you. 
Meanwhile, for courteous treatment, good store of gold we'll bring, 
And look for such reception as kin g may claim from king." 

256. 
" Take what you ask," said Qunther, " both set I gladly free. 
Still must I have assurance that here awhile with me 
My foes consent to tarry, and do not leave my land 
Till peacebe made between UB." TothatkingLudgergavehis hand. 

257. 
So now the kings to rest them were to their chambers led. 
With tender care the wounded were softly laid a-bed. 
While for the whole and hearty was pour'd the mead and vine. 
Never were men so merry as these beside the Bhine. 

2S8. 
Attendants to safe keeping the batier'd bucklers bore, 
The blood-bespatter' d saddles, whereof was plenteous store, 
They hid, lest sight so sorry should make tho women weep. 
Many a good knight o'erwearied home was glad to creep. 

259. 
The guests from good king Gunther all noble treatment found. 
With friends as well as strangers his country swarm'd aroimd. 
He bad for the sore wounded all needful aid be sought. 
Where was their haughty courage ? how low it now was brought ! 



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HOW 8I£0FBIED FOTTQHT WITH THE BASONS. ii 

260. 

Wloe'er had skill in leechcraft was offer'd coin vmtold, 
SOver without measure aa well aa glittering gold. 
To rare the feinting champions by wounds of wu oppress' d. 
The bounteous monarch sent too rich gifts to every gueat. 

261. 
Those who, of feasting weary, homeward sought to wend, 
Were press'd to tarry longer, B,a friend will deal with friend. 
King G-unther call'd a council ; he would his men requite, 
Who for his sake so nobly bad won that gallant fight. 

262. 
Then spake the good Sir Gemot, " at present bid them go. 
When fidl sii weeks are over, we'll let the warriors know, 
We here shall need their presence at feasting rich and high ; 
Then wiU reator'd be many, who yet sore wounded lie." 

263. 
And now would noble Siegfried to Gunther bid adieu ; 
Soon aa tbe friendly monarch'the warrior's purpose knew. 
He lovingly besought him a longer stay to make. 
He ne'er had so consented but for bis sister's sake. 

264. 
Besides, he was too wealthy to stoop to soldier's pay. 
Albeit he well deserv'd it ; him lov'd the more each day 
The king and all his kinsmen, who on the battle plain 
Had seen him deal destruction on Saxon and on Dane. 

265. 
For the sake of that &ir lady he yet would liager there, 
If he perchance might see her ; and soon was eas'd his care. 
He came to know the maiden to his utmost heart's desire, 
Ilien home he rode n^oicing to the kingdom of his sire. 



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46 FOITBTB ASTEKTDBE. 

266. 

The king bad practice knighthood and joust &om day to day. 
Well did hie youthful warriors and willingly obey. 
Seats too before the city he taia'd along the Btrand 
For those who were to viait the &m'd Burgnndiau land. 

267. 
So bad the royal Gnnther, and now the time was near, 
Ere came the joyful tidings to his &ir sister's ear, 
That he with his dear comrades high festival would hold. 
Then were fair women stirring ; their toil was mimifold 

268. 
"With kirtles, and with head-gear, and all that each should wear. 
Uts, the rich and noble, amidst her maidens &ir 
Heard of the coming warriors, a bold and haughty train ; 
Straight was from out the wrappers store of rich vesture ta'en. 

269. 
For the sake of her dear children the garments forth were laid, 
Wherewith array'd were richly many a wife and many a nmd, 
And many a youthfiil champion of warlike Burgundy ; 
She bad, too, many a stranger be rob'd as gorgeously. 



FIFTH ADVENTtTRE. 

HOW BIEOTBIEI) TIBST SAW KBISMBILn. 
270. 

Now might you ever daily see riding towards the BMne 
Troops of good knights ambitious at that proud feast to shine. 
Whoe'er for love of Gruntber to Gnnther's court would speed, 
Was at his hands provided with vesture and with steed. 



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HOW BIEOTBIXD ITB8T BA.V SBIEUHILD. 47 

271. 

Aasign'd were aeata befitting to every high-born guest. 
Thither, aa has been told ua, the noblest and the beet 
Came two and thirty princes to that high festal tide. 
In gawds and gems the women eaeh with her neighbour vied. 

272. 
Now here, now there was busy the youthful Qiselher j 
He and hia brother Gemot each with his meiny there 
Bight hospitable welcome to friend and stranger made, 
And every fitting honour to every warrior paid. 

273. 
Full many a gold-red saddle, full many a sparkling shield. 
With store of sumptuous vesture for that high festal field, 
Were then convey'd to lUiineland ; many an wling wight 
Grew merry again and gladsome to see so fair a sight. 

274. 
Each, who in bed lay wounded, though like to yield his breath, 
Coold now no more renkember the bitterness of death. 
By the sick the healthy could now no longer stay ; 
Comrade laugh'd with comrade against the festal day 

275. 
On the good entertainment prepar'd for yoni^ and old ; 
Measureless contentment, enjt^rnent manifold 
Enliven'd iJl the people, and spread from band to band. 
The note of pleasure echoed through all king G-unther's liuid. 

276. 
*Twas on a Wbitsun morning the warriors you might see. 
Five thousand men or better, ladr pricking o'er the lea, 
Tclad in courtly raiment, to that high festival. 
In jollity and pastime were vying one and all. 



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48 TIFTH ADTENTPBE. 

277. 
BJght well had mark'd king Chinther, who love could UBderstuid, 
"What heartfelt love impasaion'd the kmght of Netherknd, 
E'en though he ne'er had seen her, hie peerleaa sister bare. 
The mmd proclaim'd by all men the &irest of the fiiir. 

278. 
Said he, " now all advise me, kinsmen and men of mine, 
How best of this high tourney to perfect the design, 
So that our earnest efforts henceforth none may blame. 
"Tis but on deeds deserring that rests enduring fame." 

279. 
Hescarce had thus address'd them, when answer'd bold Ortwine 
" Would you. Oh Iring ! full honour to this high feast assign. 
Bring forth our choicest treasures to this proud chivalry, 
The matrons and the maidens of our fiiir Burgundy. 

280. 
What more the heart enraptures, or courage more inflames 
Than to look on lovely damsek, on high and stately dames F 
Bid too come forth your sister to feast each Btranger'a sight." 
WeQl was ^iprov'd the counsel by each surrounding knight. 

281. 
" 'Tis well advis'd," said Gunther, " I strught will do my part." 
Whoever heard his answer was inly glad at heart. 
Then bad he lady Uta and her fair daughter call 
To grace the court and tourney, them and their maidens aU. 

282. 
In haste through all the presses for rich attire they sought. 
What lay in vrrappers folded alike to light was brought. 
Bracelets and daaps and brooches all ready forth were laid. 
Soon deck'd in all her choicest was every noble maid. 



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BOW BIEafBIED FIRST SAW EBIEUHILD. 49 

283. 

Many a y ouog knight that moniing, within his flutt'ring breast, 
L(uig'd,that on him,conteDted,bright beauty's glance might rest i 
Such glance he would not barter for all a king can own. 
Each look'd on each full gladly, albeit before unknown. 

284. 
Then bad the wealthy monarch with royal pomp and state 
Of his men a hundred on hie eieter wait, 
His and the maiden's kinsmen ; each carried aword in hand. 
These were the chosen courtiers of Burgundy's jair land. 

286. 
With her the wealthy Cta there coming too was seen ; 
She had with her in waiting of fair and stately mien 
A hundred dames or better, all gorgeously array'd. 
Her daughter too was followed by many a noble maid. 

286. 
On from bower advancing they came in fair array j 
Much press was there of heroes along the crowded way 
Through aimous glad expectance to see that beauty rare, 
The fairest and the noblest of the noble and the &ir. 

287. 
Now went she forth, the loveHeet, as forth the moniing goes 
From misty clouds out-beaming ; then all his weary woes 
Left him, in heart who bore her, and so, long time, had done. 
He saw there stately standing the &ir, the peerless one. 

288. 
Many a stone full preciouB flaah'd from her vesture bright ; 
Her ro^ blushes darted a softer, milder light. 
Whate'er might be his wishes, each could not but confess, 
He ne'er on earth bad witness'd such perfect loveliuess. 



..mo; 000*^10 



so FIFTH ADTENTUBE. 

289: 
As the moon arUing outgUtters every atar 
That through the clouda ao purely glimmerB fromafiir, 
E'en so loTC-breathing Kriemhild dimm'd every beauty nigh. 
Well might at auch a vision many a bold heart beat high. 

290. 
Bich chamberlaina before them matoh'd on in order due ; 
Around th' high-mettled championa cloae and closer drew, 
Each pressing each, and struggling to see the matchless maid. 
Then inly was Sir Siegfried both well and ill apaid. 

291. 
Within himaelf thus thought he ; " How could I thus misdeem 
That I should dare to woo thee P sure 't waa an idle dream ! 
Yet, rather than forBake thee, hi better were I dead." 
Thus thinking, thus impasdon'd, wax'd he ever white and red. 

292. 
So atood the son of Sieglind in matchleas grace array'd. 
As though upon a parchment in glowing hues pourtray'd 
By some good master's cunning ; all own'd, and could no leas, 
Eye had ngt seen a pattern of such fair manliness. 

293. 
Those, who the dames attended, bad all around make way ; 
Stnught did the gentie warriors, as such became, obey. 
There many a knight, enraptur'd, saw many a dame in place 
Shine forth in bright perfection of courtliness and grace. 

294. 
Then the bold Burgundian, Sir Gemot, spoke his thought, 
" Him, who in hour of peril hia aid ao &ankly brought, 
Bequite, dear brother Chmther, aa fits both him and you. 
Before thia &ir assembly ; th' advice I give, I ne'er shall rue. 



HOW BIEOFBIES FIBBT SAW KSIXUHILD. 



Bid Sieg&ied come to Ejiemhild ; let each the other meet ; 
'T will sure be to our profit, if she the warrior greet. 
'T will make him out's for ever, thia man of matchless might. 
If she but give him greeting, who never greeted knight." 

295. 
Then went king Gunther's kinsmen, a high>boni haughty band. 
And found, and fair saluted the knight of If etherlaod. 
" The king to court invites you ; such favour have you won ; 
His sister there wiD greet you ; this to honour you ia done." 

297. 
Glad man was theu Sir Sieg&ied at this unlook'd-for gain ; 
His heart was fidl of pleasure without alloy of pain, 
To see and meet so friendly fair Uta's fairer child. 
Then greeted she the warrior maidenly and mild. 



There stood he, the high-minded, beneath her star-bright eye, 
His cheek as fire all glowing ; then said she modestly, 
" Sir Siegfried, you are welcome, noble knight and good !" 
Yet loflaer at that greeting rose his lofty mood. 

299. 
He bow'd with soft emotion, and thank'd the blushing fair ; 
Love's strong constndnt together impeU'd th' enamour'd pwr ; 
Their longing eyes encounter'd, their glances, eveiy one, 
Bound knight and maid for ever, yet all by stealth was done. 

300. 
That in the warmth of passion he press'd her lily hand, 
I do not know for certain, but well can undenrtand. 
'Twere surely past believing they veotur'd not on this ; 
Two loving hearts, so meeting, else had done amiss. 



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62 TiTTB AsvEnrrusi. 

301. 
No more in pride of summer nor in bloom of May 
Knew he auch heart-felt pleaaure as on this happy day, 
When she, than May more blooming, more bright than sum- 
mer's pride, 
Hifl own, a dream no longer, was standing by his side. 

802. 
Then thought full many a champion, "would this had happ'dto me 
To be with lovely Xriemhild as Sieg&ied now I see, 
Or closer e'en than Siegfried ; well were I then, I ween." 
Never yet was champion who so deBerr'd a queen. 

303. 
Whate'er the king or country of the guests assembled there, 
All could look on nothing save on that gentle pair. 
Now 't was iJlow'd thatEriemhild the peeriessknightshouldkiss. 
Ne'er in the world had drain'd he so full a draught of bliss, 

304. 
Then sp^e the king of Denmark the gather'd crowd before, 
" Because of this high greeting lie many wounded sore, 
As 1 know to my sorrow, by Sieg&ied's might and main. 
God grant, he ne'er to Denmark may find his way again." 

305. 
Then 't was proclaim'd on all sides to make for Xriemhild way ; 
Straight went to church the maiden in royal rich array 
With a bold train of warriors, a &ir and coiuily sight. 
There soon &om her was ported the lofty-minded knight, 

306. 
She now the mioater enter'd ; her follow'd many a dame ; 
There so her stately beauty her rich attire became. 
That droop'd each high aspiring, bom but at once to die. 
Sure was that m^ created to ravish every eye. 

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HOV StE&FBFES TIR8T SAW KBIBHHILD. 53 

807. 

Scarce could wait Sir Sieg&ied till the mass was sung. 
"Well might he thanh his fortune, that, aill those knights among, 
To him inclin'd the maiden whom still in heart he bore. 
While he to her, as fitted, retum'd as much or more. 

308. 
When now before the minster oiter the mass she stood, 
Again to come braide her was caJl'd the champion good. 
Then first by that sweet maiden thanks to the knight were given. 
That he before his comrades so warrior-like had striven. 

309. 
," God you reward, Sir Siegfried !" said the noble child, 
" For all your high deaervings in honour's beadroU fil'd. 
The which I know from all men have won you fame and grace." 
Sir Siegfried, love-bewilder' d, look'd Eriemhild in the &ce. 

310. 
" Ever," Bud he, " your brethren I'll serve as beat I may, 
Nor once, while I have being, will head on pillow lay, 
[Kll I have done to please them whate'er they bid me do. 
And this, my lady Kriemhild, is all for love of you." 

811. 
For twelve days the maiden each Buccessire day 
With the knight beside her took to court her way, 
While, as they pass'd together, their friends were looking on. 
Out of love to Siegfried was this fair service done. 

812. 
From Biom was there to evening and day by day withal 
Shouting and merry-making about king Gunther's hall. 
Within, without, firom joyance of many a mighty man. 
Oitwine and valiant Hagan high wonders there began. 



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M TIFTH ADVEKTCBE. 

813. 

Whatever aports they wiah'd for were ready at their will ; 
Of each, as each had liking, each might take hia fill. 
Thus proved were Gimther's warriore by stranger chivalry, 
Whence lame accrued and honour to all broad Burgundy. 

811. 
They too, who lay aore wounded, crept forth to the &ee air ; 
They long'd with loving comrades the gentle sports to share, 
To skirmiah vrith the buckler, and hurl the q>ear amain ; 
And most through such fair pastime came to full strength agmn. 

815. 
The host of that high festal ai\ and some had cheer 
"With meats and drinks the choicest ; he kept him ever clear 
From blame or ought unkingly in action or intent ; 
And now with Mendly purpose to his guests he went. 

816. 
Said he, " good knights and noble, ere you hence retire, 
Beceive the gifts I offer, as proofs of my desire 
In all I can to serve you ; this I'm resolv'd to do ; 
Disdain not now the riches I'd gladly share with you." 

817. 
Straight the men of Denmark to the king replied, 
" Ere hence we part and homeww^ to our own countiy ride, 
A lasting peace assure us ; such peace must captives need. 
Who have seen their dearest comrades beneath your champions 
bleed." 

818. 
"Sow whole again was Ludgast and all hia gaahes heol'd, 
The Baxon too recover'd after that luckless field. 
Some dead they left behind them entomb'd in Bhenish ground. 
Then thither went King Ghinther where he Sir Siegfried found. 



HOT BISOFBLBD FIBBT aA.W KBIEMHILD. 65 

819. 

To the good knight thus said he, " now tell me what to' do ; 
Eftrlj to-morrow morning ride home the Danish crew ; 
With me and mine &om henceforth thej seek to be at one ; 
Therefore adTise me, Si^^Med, what best la to be done. 

820. 
What these two monaroha offer, I'U to you declare ; 
As much as ateeda five hundred of shining gold can bear, 
That will they gladly give me to set them &ee at will." 
Then anawer'd noble Sieg&ied, " you then would do but ill. 

321. 
Better hence un&tter'd let both together go. 
And that neither warrior henceforth aa a foe. 

Venture to make entry on Bui^gundian land, 

Vfx this in fiill aaauronoe let either give hia hand." 
322. 

" Tour counsel I will follow, thus let them home return." 

His captive foes hia message were not alow to learn. 

No one their gold demanded which they had offer'd late. 

Ueanwhiletheir friends in Denmu-k moum'd for their lost estate. 
828. 

Mwyashieldhe^'d with treasure was brought at Chmther'scall; 

Among the Mends around him unweigh'd he shar'd it all ; 

Fire hundred marks or better each warrior home might bring ; 

This &ank and liberal counsel bold Gemot gave the king. 
324. 

Leave eoontbeguests were takings thelrminds werehomewardbent; 

Then might you see how each one before &ir Kriemhild went, 

And eke where lady ITta aat like a queen in place. 

Never yet were warriors diamiss'd with so much grace. 



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68 FIFTH iBTEKTUBB, 

325. 

Empty was left each chamber as thence the Btinngera rode, 
Tet BtiU in royal eplendour the king at home abode 
With many a noble warrior and vassal of hie court, 
Whom you might see to EjiemhUd day by day resort. 

326. 
And now the noble Siegfried leave to take was &in. 
Wliat he BO deeply yeam'd for he little hop'd to gain. 
It was told kijig Guntber that he would hence away. 
'Twas Giaelher the youthfid that won the chief to stay. 

327. 
" "Why would you leave ub, Siegfried, noble friend and true ? 
Tany here among us (what 1 eutreat you, do) 
With Gunther and his liegemen, warriors frank and free. 
Here are store of lovely ladies, whom you may gladly see." 

328. 
Then spake the valiant Sieg&ied, " lead in the steeds again ; 
I'orthwith to ride I purpos'd, but now will here remun ; 
And back too bear the bucklers ; indeed I homeward yeam'd. 
But Oiselher with honour my fis'd intent has tum'd." 

329. 
So stay'd the bold Sir Si^fried for love and friendship's sake ; 
IS or surely could be elsewhere so gladly tairiance make 
As at the court of Gunther, for there throughout his stay 
The love-devoted warrior saw Ejiemhild every day. 

330. 
Through her unmeasur'd beauty Sir Siegfried bnger'd there ; 
Hie friends with many a pastime charm'd fivm him every care, 
Save longing love for Eriemhild ; this mov'd him oft to sigh, 
This too thereafter brought him moat miserably to die. 



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SIXTH ADVENTTIEB. 

HOW OlFirrHEB WSST TO IflBLAITD TO WOO BBUITHILD. 
831. 

Betonh the Bhine high tddinga again were noia'd aroimd. 
There raeiaj a maid was dwelling for beauty wide renown' d. 
And one of these Iring Gimther, 'twaa said, deeign'd to woo : 
Wellpleafi'dthe monarch's purpose his knights and liegemen true. 

832. 
There was a queen high seated afar beyond the sea; 
Never wielded sceptre a mightier than she ; 
for beauty she was matchless, for strength without a peer ; 
Her lore to him she offer'd who could pass her at the spear. 

333. 
She threw the stone, and bounded behind it to the mark ; 
At three games each suitor with sinews stiff and stark 
Must conquer the fierce maiden whom he sought to wed, 
Or, if in one successleaa, strtdght must lose his head. 

384. 
E'en thus for the stem virgin had many a suitor died. 
This heard a noble warrior who dwelt the Ehine beside, 
And forthwith resolr'd he to win her for his wife. 
Thereby full many a hero thereaiter lost his life. 

335. 
Once <m a day t(^ether sat with his men the king. 
Talking each with the other, imd deeply pondering, 
What maiden 'twas most fitting for their lord to woo, 
One who him might comfort, and grace the country too. 



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SIXTH ADTBMTCBB. 



Then spate the lord of BMseland ; " straiglit will I hence to sea, 
And seek the fiery Brunhild howe'er it go with me. 
For love of the stem maiden I'll firanMy risk my life ; 
Beady am I to lose it, if I win her not to wife." 

337. 
" That would I fein dissuade you," Sip Siegfried made reply, 
" "Whoe'er would woo fair Brunhild, play^ a stake too high ; 
So cruel is her custom, and she eo fierce a foe. 
Take good advice, king Ounther, nor on such a journey go." 

888. 
Then answer'd thus king Ghmther : " ne'er yet was woman bom 
So hold and eke so stalwart, hut I should think it scorn 
Were not this hand sufBcient to force a female foe." 
" Be still," replied Sir Siegfried, " her strength you little know. 

339. 
Ken were you four together, nought could all four devise 
'Oninst her remorseleHS fury ; hear then what I advise 
From true and steadfast friendship, and, aa you value life. 
Tempt not for lore of Brunhild a vain, a hopeleas strife." 

840. 
" How strong she be soever, the journey will I take, 
"Whatever chance befiill me, for lovely Brunhild's sake ; 
For her unmeasur'd beauty I'll haziuvl all that's mine. 
"Who knows, but God may bring her to follow me to the Bhlne P" 

841. 
"Since you're resolv'd," aaid Hagan, "this would I chief advise; 
Bequest of noble Siegfried in this dread enterprise 
To take his part among us ; thus 'twould be beat, I ween, 
For none so well as Siegfried knows this redoubted queen." 



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wunt to woo 

342. 
Said Oimther, " wilt thou help me, Siegfried tried and true, 
To win the lovely maiden P what I entreat thee, do, 
And if I only gain her to my wedded wife, 
For thee I'll gladly venture honour, Umh and hfe." 

S43. 
Thereto answer'd Siegfried, Siegmund'a matchless son, 
" Give me hut thy sister, and the thing is done. 
The stately queen fiiir Kiiemhild let me only gain, 
I ask no other guerdon for whatever toil and pain." 

344. 
" I promise it," said Gnnther, " and take in pledge thy hand, 
And soon as lovely Brunhild shall come into this land, 
To thee to wife my sister surely will I give, 
4nd may you both together long time and happy live." 

346. 
Then each they swore to th' other, the high-bom champions bold, 
Which wrought them toil and trouble thereafter manifold. 
Ere to tail completion they brought their high design, 
And led at last the lady to the banks of Shine. 

84S. 
I have heard strai^ stories of wild dwar&, how they fare ; 
They dwell In hoUow mountains, and for protection wear 
A vesture that hight cloud-cloak, marvellous to tell ; 
Whoever has it on him may keep him safe and well 

347. 
From cuts and stabs of foemen ; him none can hear or see 
As soon as he is in it, but see and hear can be 
Whate'er he will around him, and thus must needs prevail ; 
He grows besideB far stronger ; so goes the wond'rous t^. 



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60 SIXTH ADTESTDBX. 

818. 

And now with Um the doud-doak took iiur Siegliad'e eon ; 
The Bame th' unconqueF'd warrior with labour haid had won 
J>om the stout dwarf Albric in HUCceBsful fray. 
The bold and wealthy chiunpionB made ready for the way. 

849. 
So, aa I said, bold Siegfried the ch)ud-<Joat bore along. 
When he but put it on him, he felt him wond'rous strong. 
Twelve men's strength then had he in his single body I^d. 
By trains and close devices he woo'd the hatighiy maid. 

850. 
Besides, in that strange cloud-cloak vaa such deep virtne found, 
That whosoever wore it, though thouaands stood around, 
Might do whatever pleas'd him unseen of friend or foe. 
ThusSiegflriedwoui^ Brunhild, which broughthimbitterestwoe, 

361. 
" Before we start, bold Siegfried, tell me what best would be ; 
Sh^ we lead an army across the sounding sea, 
And travel thus to Brunhild as fits a royal king P 
Straight could we together thirty thousand warriors bring." 

362. 
"Whatever our band," stud Siegfried,"the same would still ensue; 
So savage and so cruel is the queen you woo. 
All would together perish by her o'ermastering might j 
But m advise you better, high and noble knight. 

853. 
" As simple knights we'll travel adown the Bhine's fair tide. 
Two to us two added, and followers none beside. 
We four will make the voyage,' true comrades one and all. 
And thus shall win the lady, whatever thence be&ll. 



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HOW eimTHEB WESX TO WOO BBDKHILD. 6 

S51. 

" I will be one companion, thou ahalt the second be, 
The third shall be Sir Hagan, in sooth a goodly three ! 
The fourth shall be Sir Dankwart that redoubted knight. 
Trust me, no tbousand champions will dare us four to fight." 

855. 
" Fain would I learn," said Ouuther, " ere we hence depsrt 
On the hard adventure, that so inflames my heart, 
Before the royal Brunhild what vesture we should wear. 
That may best become us ; this, Siegfried, thou declare," 

856. 
" Garments the bert and richest that ever warriors wore 
Bobe in the land of Brunhild her lieges evermore ; 
And we should meet the lady array'd at least as well ; 
So shame will ne'er await us, when men our tale shall tell." 

857. 
Then answer'd good king Gunther, " TU to my mother dear, 
That she and her fair maidens, ere we for Issland steer. 
May fiunitih us with raiment in lull and copious store. 
Which we may wear with honour the stately queen before." 



I, the knight of Tfony, then spake in cointly wise, 
" Why would you ash your mother such service to devise ? 
If only your feir sister our purpose understood. 
She's in all arts so skilful, the clothes would needs be good." 

359. 
Then sent he to his sister, that he 'd to her repair. 
And with him only Siegfried ; ere they could thither tare, 
Kriemhild in choicest vesture her beauty had array'd ; 
Little did their coming displease the gentle mud. 



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62 SIXTH ADTSSTDBE. 

860. 
And deck'd too were her women ae them beat became. 
Now were at hand the princes ; straight the queenly dame, 
, Ah she beheld them coming, rose stately from her seat, 
And went the noble stranger and her brother too to greet, 

361. 
" Welcome to my brother and to hia comrade dear," 
Said the graceful maiden, " your news I &dn would hear. 
Tell me what brings you hither, what deeds are now to do ; 
Let me know how ferea it, noble knighta, with you." 

362. 
Then spake the royal Gimther, " Dame, I will tdl my care. 
We must with lofty courage a proud adventuj« dare. 
We would hence arwooing &r over seas away ; 
For such a journey need we apparel rich and gay." 

363. 
" Now sit thee down, dear brother, and teU me fraak and &ee," 
Siud the royal muden, " who these dames may be. 
Whom you would go a-courting in a distant land." 
Both the chosen warriors then took she by the hand. 

S64. 
Anon she both led thither whero before she aat 
On rich embroider'd cushions (I can Touch for that), 
O'erwTOUght with goodly figures well rais'd in ghtt'ring gold. 
There th^ with the fair lady might gentle converse hold. 

365. 
Many a ^aaoe of rapture, many a longing ]o6k, 
Aa there talk'd the lovers, either gave and took. 
He in his heart enshrin'd her ; she was to >iim as life. 
ThereiAer loTeiy Eriembild became bold Siegfried's wife. 



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NT TO WOO BBUKHILD. ix 

966. 

Then said to her hing Gimtber, " right noble sister mine, 
Wlat I wish cwi never be but with help <rf thine. 
We'll to the land of Brunhild to take our pastime there, 
And must before the lady princely t^parel wear." 

867. 
Then spt^e th^ queen in answer, " right loving brother mine, 
If ought 1 can will profit whatever end of thine. 
Depend on me to do it ; thou'lt find me ready still. 
If any ought denied thee, 't would please thy Kriembild ill. 

868. 
If able knight, thou ahould'st not, as doubting, ask and pray. 
But, as my lord and msster, command, and 111 obey. 
Thou'lt find me, whatsoever thou haat in heart to do. 
Not more a loving sister than a servant true." 

369. 
" Dearest rister Kriemhild, we must wear costly weed, 
And therewith to equip us thy snowy hand we need. 
And let thy maids their utmost upon the same bestow, 
Tor sure my purpos'd journey never will I forego." 

870. 
Then spoke the noble vi]^;in, " mark now what I say ; 
I've silk mTself in plenty ; on shields, as best you may. 
Precious stones bid bring us to work the clothes withal." 
6unther and eke Si^&ied bad brii^ them at h^ call. 

871. 
" And who are the companions," ask'd the royal maid, 
" Who you to court vriU foUow thus gorgeously array'd ?" 
" We're four in all," he answer'd ; " two of my men beside, 
Daokwart and Hagan, with us to court will ride. 



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64 BIXTH ASTENTDBG. 

372. 

And, dame, mark well, I pray thee, what I hare jet to say. 

Let each be well provided ihree changes every day, 

And for four days eucceeaive, mid all be of the beat ; 

So back shall I weud homewwrd no scom'd, diehonouT'd guest." 

873. 
So with kind dUmiaeal away the warriors strode. 
Thenquickthe &ir queen Bummon'd from bowers where theyabode 
Thirty maids, her brother's purpose to fiilfill, 
Who in works of the needle were the chief for craft and skill. 

874. 
Silks from fax Arabia, white as driven snow, 
And others from Zazamanc, green as grass doth grow, 
They deck'd with stones full precious ; Kriemhild the garments 

plann'd, 
And cut them to just measure with her own lily hand. 

375. 
Of the hides of foreign fishes were linings finely wrought ; 
Such then were seen but rarely,and choice and precious thought; 
Fine silk was sewn above them to suit the wearers welL 
Now of the rich apparel hear me fresh marvels tell. 

376. 
Prom the land of Morocco and fiwn the Libyan coast 
The best silk and the finest e'er worn and valued most 
By kin of mightiest princes, of such had they good store. 
Well Kriemhild show'd the favour thait she the wearers bore. 

877. 
E'er since the chiefs were purpos'd the martial queen to win. 
In their eight was precious the goodly ermelin 
With coal-blac^ spots besprinkled on whiter ground than snow. 
E'en now the pride of warrion at every festal show. 



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HOW QUVTEXB WgST TO WOO BBCNHILD. 65 

378. 
Many & Btone fall predous gleam'd from ArabiaD gold ; 
That the women were not idle, scarcely need be told. 
Within seven weeks, now ready was the vesture bright, 
Beady too the weapons of each death-daring knight. 

879. 
Now when all was ready, by the lUiine you might mark 
Built with slill and labour a stout thoi^h little bark, 
Wherein adown the river to sea they were to go. 
To the noble maidens their toil brought mickle woe. 

380. 
When now 't was told the champions, that the vesture gay, 
Which they should carry with them, was ready for the way, 
And that nought impeded their firmly-fixed design, 
No longer would they tarry by the banks of Bhine. 

881. 
So to their loving comrades a messenger was sent. 
That they the goodly vesture might see before they went, 
If it for the warriors too short were or too long- 
Much thanks they gave the womenwhenfound was nothing wrong. 

382. 
Whomever met the warriors, all could not but admire ; 
In all the worid not any had seen such fair attire ; 
At Brunhild's court 't would surely become the wearers well. 
Of better knightly gMmenta not a tongue could tell. 

383. 
Much thank'd was each &ir seamstress for hereuccess^ toil. 
Meanwhile, on point of parting for a &r and dangerous soil, 
The warriors wotJd of Eriemhild take leave in knightly wise. 
Whereat moist clouds of sorrow bedimm'd her sunbright eyes. 



..MOyCOO'^IC 



68 SIXTH ADTsmrrsE. 

384. 
Stud she, " why thus, dear brother, to foreign regkniB run ? 
Stay here and woo another ; that were &e better done, 
Than on bo dire a venture to set jour lame and life. 
You'll find among our neighbours a iairer, nobler wife." 

386. 
Their hearts, I ween, foreboded what thence was to befi^. 
How spake they ever boldly, sore wept they one and all. 
Their tears the gold o'ermoistea'd that ontheir breasts they wore ; 
So thick they from their eyelids atre&m'd down upon the floor. 

386. 
" To you," said she, " Sir Siegfiied, at least may I resign, 
To your faith, to your honour, this brother dear of mine, 
That no mischance beset him in Brunhild's fatal land." 
Straight promis'd he the maiden, and dasp'd her clay-cold huid. 

387. 
Then spake the loving champion, " long as I have life, 
Dismiss the cares, fair lady, that in your breast are rife. 
I'll bring you back your brother safe and well apay'd ; 
Take that for sure and certain." Low bow'd the thankiul maid. 

388. 
Their golden-colour'd bucklers were borne down to the strand. 
With all their costly vesture, and softly led in band 
Were their high-mettled chargers ; they now would straight 

depart. 
Then many an eye was weeping, and throbbing many a heart. 

389. 
Pair maids stood at the windows as they hoisted sail ; 
The bark rock'd, and the canvas flapp'd with the &esh'iiing gale. 
So on the Bhiae were seated the comrades frank and free ; 
Then sud good kiog Q-unther, " who shall our steeramui be ?" 



HOW anNTHKB WEST TO WOO 



" I wiD," Baid noble Siegfried ; " well all our course I know, 
"Well the tides and currents how they shift aai flow. 
Trust me, good tnight, to pilot jrou and your company." 
So from Worms and Ehineland they parted joyously. 

391. 
With that straight aeiz'd Sir Siegfried a pole that lay at band, 
And with strong effort straining 'gan push off from the strand; 
Gimther himself as ready took in hand an oar; 
So fell off the vessel and puted fcom the shore. 

382. 
They had on hoard rich viandfl, thereto good store of wine. 
The best that could be met with e'en on the hanks of Bhine. 
Their steeds in easy quarters stood tractable and still ; 
The level bark ran smoothly ; nothing with them went ill. 

898. 
Their sail swell'd to the breezes, the ropes were stretch'd and tight; 
Miles they ran tiill twenty ere the fall of night. 
With a feir wind to seaward down dropp'd the gallant crew. 
Their dames had cause long after their high emprize to rue. 

394. 
By the twelfth bright morning, as we have heard it told, 
The winds the bark had waited with the warriors bold 
Towards Isenstein, a fortress in the martial maiden's land ; 
'Twas only known to Siegfried of all th' advent'rous band. 

396. 
Soon as saw king Ghmther, wondering as well he might, 
The fkr-atretch'd coast, and caatlea frowning from every height, 
" Look ! friend," said he, " Sir Siegfried, if thou know'st, declare, 
Whose aie all these fiur castles, and all this land as fiur, 
s 2 



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Li an my life, assure thee, the simple truth to tell, 
I never met with castles plaon'd and built so well. 
Any where soerer, as here before us stand. 
He must needs be mighty who took such work in hand." 

397. 
Thereto made answer Siegfried ; " well what you ask I know. 
Brunhild's ai« all these castles, this land, bo fur a show, 
And leenstein this fortress ; 't is true what now I say. 
Here will you meet. Sir Gnnther, many a fair dame to-day. 

398. 
I'll give you counsel, heroes ! e'en as it seems me good ; 
Keep in one tale together ; be this well understood. 
To-day we must, as fits us, at Brunhild's court be seen ; 
We must be wise and wary when we.stand before the ^een. 

399. 
When we lehold the fair one and all her tnun around, 
Let but this single stoiy in all your mouths be found. 
That Onnther is my master, and I am but his man ; 
To give him all his longing you'll find no surer plan. 

400. 
'T is not so much for thy sake, I own, such part I bear, 
As for thy sister Eriemhild's, the fairest of the &ir. 
She to me is ever as my own soul and life. 
Fain do I such low service to win her for my wife." 

401. 
With one accord they promis'd to do as he desir'd ; 
None through pride or envy to thwart his wish aspir'd. 
So all took Sieg&ied's counsel, and sure it brought them good 
Soon after, when king Qnnther before queen Brunhild stood. 



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SEVENTH ADVENTUBB. 

HOW GtJHIUEB won BHUFHILD. 
402. 

MJEATTWHixE tKe bark had drifted onto the shore ho nigh 
Beneath the high-tower'd castle, that the king could spy 
Many a maiden standing at every window there ; 
That all to him were strangers, waa what he ill could bear. 

403. 
Forthwith he aak'd of Siegfi-ied, his vsjiant £riend and true, 
" Enow you ought of these maidens, whom here we have in view 
Down upon us looking, though not, methinke, in scorn P 
Whoe'er their lord, they're suiely high<minded and high-bom." 

404. 
TTim aoswer'd Siegfried smiling, " now you may closely spy, 
And tell me of these damsels which pleases best your eye, 
And which, if you could win her, you for your own would hold." 
" So will I," answer'd Ountber the hardy knight and bold. 

405. 
" One see I at a window stand in a snow-white vest ; 
Around her aU are lovely, but she's tax loveliest. 
Her have mine eyes selected ; Sir Siegfried, on my life, 
If I can only gain her, that maid shall be my wife." 

406. 
" In all this world of beauty thine eyes have chosen well ; 
That maid's the noble Brunhild, at once so liur and fell. 
She, who thy heart bewilders, she, who enchants thy sight." 
Her every act and gesture to Ctunther was delight. 



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70 BETENTH ADTEMTURE. 

407. 

Then bad the queen her maidens &om the windowB go ; 
Them it ill befitted to ataud a sight and show 
"For the rude eyes of strwigere ; they bow'd to her behest, 
But what next did the ladies, we since have beard confest 

408. 
They rob'd them in their richest to meet the strangers' gaze ; 
Such, ever since were women, were ever women's ways. 
Though every chink and loophole was level'd many an eye 
At the unweetiag champiouB, through love to peep and pry. 

409. 
There were but four together who came into the land. 
The f^-renowned Sieg&ied led a horae in hand. 
Xhis Brunluld at a window mark'd with heedfal eye. 
Ab lord of such a liegeman was Gunther valued high. 

410. 
Then humbly by the bridle he held the monarch's ateed, 
Huge of limb and puissant and of the purest breed. 
Till in the royal saddle king Gunther proudly sat ; 
Bo serr'd him noble Sieg&ied, which he too soon forgat. 

411. 
Then his own the warrior led &om ship to shore; 
He of a truth such service bad seldom done before. 
As to stand at the stirrup, when uiother mounted steed. 
Of all, close at the windows, the women took good heed. 

412. 
To look upon these champions was sure a glorious sight; 
Their horses and their garmentB were both of snowy white. 
And both match'd well together ; each bore a furbiah'd shield, 
Which, still as it was shaken, flasb'd around the field. 



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HOW aUTTTHXB WON BBniTHILD. 71 

413. 

So forward rode the^ lordly to BrunMd'a gorgeous hall'; 
Bicb stonea beset their saddles, their poitrals, light and small, 
Had golden hella down-hanging that tinkled as they went. 
On mov'd the prond comptmionB led by their bold intent. 

414,. 
Their spears were newly sharpen'd as if to meet a foe ; 
Their swords of choicest temper down to the spur hung low ; 
Keen of edge waa each one, imd thereto broad of blade. 
AU this was mark'd by Brunhild, the chief-deling maid. 

415. 
With them together Bankwart and Hagau came ashore. 
'T is told ua in old stories that these two warriors wore 
A|^iarel of the richest, but raven-black of hue ; 
Ponderous were their bucklers, broad and bright and new. 

416. 
Stones from the land of India display'd each gorgeous guest, 
That erer gleam'd and glittered in the flutt'ring vest. 
They left their hark unguarded beside the dashing wave. 
And straight on to the fortress rode the champions brave. 

417. 
Six and eighty turrets saw they there in all, 
Three palaces wide-stretching, and the fairest hall 
Of the purest marble (never was grass so green), 
"WheFe with her fair damsels sat the &Lrer queen. 

418. 
Unlock'd was strai^t Ihe castle, the gates flew open wide ; 
Up in haste to meet them Brunhild's liegemen hied. 
And bad the strangers welcome to their lady's land, 
And took his horse from each one and the shield from every hand. 



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72 BXTEKTH ASTEITTUBE. 

419. 

A chamberliuii then bespoke them ; " be pleas'd to give ns now 
Tour Bworde and glitt'ring breast^lateB." "That cui we ne'er 

allow," 
Hagan of Trony anHwer'd, " our arms ouredres will bear," 
The custom of the castle then Sieg&ied 'gmi declare. 

420. 
" 'Tia the use of thia castle, as I can well attest, 
That never warlike weapons should there be borne hj guest. 
'Twere best to keep the custom ; let th' arms aside be laid." 
Hagan, Gunther'a hegeman, unwillingly obey'd. 

421. 
"Wine to the guesta they offer" d, and goodly welcome gave ; 
Then might you pee apparel'd in princely raiment brave 
Many a stately warrior, on to court that pass'd, 
And loaiiy a glance of wonder upon the Htrangers cast. 

422. 
Meanwhile to &ir queen Brunhild one came and made report, 
That certain foreign warriors had come unto her court 
In sumptuous apparel, wafted upon the flood. 
Then thus began to question the maiden &ir and good. 

423. 
" Now tell me," said the princess, " and let the truth be shown, 
Who are these haughty champions from foreign shores unknown, 
Whom there I see so stately sttmding in rich array. 
And on what hard adventure have they hither found their way ?" 

424. 
One of her court then answer'd, " I can aver, fair queen. 
Of this stout troop of warriors none have I ever seen, 
Save one, who's much like Siegfried, if I may trust my eyes. 
Him well receive and welcome j this is what I advise. 



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HOW eiTBTHEB WOB BBUlTHIIiD. 73 

426. 
The next of the companions, he of t!ie lofty mien, 
If hJB power match hia person, ia some great king, I ween, 
And rules with mighty sceptre broad and princely lands. 
See, how among his comrades so lordly there he stands i 

The third of the companions — a low'ring brow has he, 
And yet, Hat queen, you rarely a manlier form may see. 
Note but his fieiy glances, how quick around tb^ dart ! 
Firm ia, I ween, his courage, and pitiless his heart. 

42,7. 
The fourth knight is the youngest, he with the downy cheek, 
So maidenly in manner, so modest and so meek. 
How gentle all hia bearing ! how soft hia lovely cheer ! 
Yet we all should rue it, should wrong be done him here. 

428. 
How mild soe'er his mapper, how fair soe'er hia frame, 
Cauae would he give for weeping to numy a high-born dame, 
Were he once stirr'd to anger ; sure he's a warrior grim, 
Tnun'd in all knightly practice,bold of heart and strong of limb." 

429. 
Then spake the royal Brunhild, " bring me my vesture straight. 
If far-renowned Sieg&ied aspire to be my mate. 
And is hither come to woo me, on the cast is set his life ; 
I fear him not so deeply, as to yield me for his wife." 

430. 
Soon was the lovely Brunhild in her robes array'd. 
With their lovely mistress went many a lovely maid. 
Better than a hundred, and all were ricUy dight ; 
For the noble strangers, I trow, a goodly sight. 



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74 88TXSTH ABTXITTDBB, 

431. 

With them of Bnutliild's wamore sdvanc'd a chosen band. 
Better than fire htindred, each bearing aword in hand, 
The very flower of Issland ; 't waa s Me yet fearful scene. 
The atrangers rose undaunted as near them came the qnee/a. 

432. 
Soon as the noble Sieg&ied met the £ur BrunhOd'a eight, 
In her modest manner she thus bespoke the knight. 
"You're welcome, good Sir Siegfried; now, if it please you, ahow 
What cauae has brought you hither; that I would gladly know." 

433. 
" A thousand thanks, Dame Brunhild," the warrior made reply, 
" That thou hast deign'd to greet me before my better nigh, 
Before this noble hero, to whom I must give place. 
He is my lord and master ; his rather be the grace. 

434. 
On the Bhine ia his kingdom ; what should I further say P 
Through love of thee, fair lady, we've sail'd this weaiy way. 
He is resolv'd to woo thee whatever thence betide ; 
So now betimes bethink tliee ; he'll ne'er renounce his bride. 

485. 
The monarch's name is Ounther, a rich and mighty king ; 
This will alone content him, thee to the Bhine to bring, 
lor thee above the biUows with him I've hither run ; 
Had be not been my master, this would I ue'er have done." 

486. 
Said she, " if he's thy master, and thou, it seems, his man, 
Let him my games encounter, and win me if he can. 
If he in all be victor, his wedded wife am I. 
If I in one surpass him, he and'yon all shall die." 



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HOW ODSTHEB WOK BBI7HBILD. 75 

437. 

liiea spate the knight of Trooy, " come, lady, let us see 
The games that you propose us ; ere you the conqueress be 
Of my good lord King Ounther, hard muHt you toil, I ween. 
He trusts with full asBurance to win so fair a queen." 

438. 
"He most cast the stone beyond me, and after it must leap. 
Then with me shoot the javelin ; too quick a pace you keep ; 
Stop, and awhile consider, and reckon well the cost," 
The warriorees made aoawer, "ere life and fame be lost." 

439. 
Sieg&ied in a moment to the monwb went ; 
To the queen be bad him tell his whole intent. 
" Never fear the future, cast all cares away ; 
My trains shall keep you bannlesa, do Brunhild what she may." 

440. 
Then spake the royal G^untber, " Mr queen, aU queens before, 
Now say what you command us, and, were it yet e'en more. 
For the aake of yoia beauty, be sure, I'd aU abide. 
My head I'll lose, and willing, if you be not mj bride." 

441. 
These words of good king Gunther when beard tbe royal dame, 
She bad bring on the ccmtest as her well became. 
Straight call'd she for herhamess, wherewith she fought in field, 
And her golden breastplate, and her mighty shield. 

442. 
Then a silken sureoat on tbe stem maiden drew, 
Which in all her battles steel bad cut never through. 
Of stuff from farthest Lybia; fair on her limbs it lay ; 
With richest lace 't was border' d, that cast a gleaming ray. 



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76 BETENTH ASTEKTUBB. 

443. 

Meaowliile upon the strangers her threatening eyea were bent ; 
Hagan there stood with Dankwart in anxioua discontent, 
How it might &11 their master in silence pondering still. 
Thought they, " this fatal journey will bring ua all to iU." 

The while, ere yet obserrer his absence could remark, 
Sudden the nimble Sieg&ied stepp'd to the little hark. 
Where &om a secret comer his cloud-cloak forth he took, 
And slipp'd into it deftly, while none was there to look, 

44>6. 
Back in haste retum'd he ; there many a knight he saw, 
Where for the sports queen Brunhild was laying down the law. 
So went he on in secret, and mor'd among the crowd. 
Himself unseen, all-aeeing, Buch power was in his shroud ! 

446. 
The ring was mark'd out ready for the deadly fray, 
And many a chief selected as umpires of the day, 
Seven hundred all in harness with order'd weapons feir. 
To judge with truth the contest which they should note with care- 

.447. 
There too was come fiiir Brunhild ; arm'd might you see her stand, 
Ab though resolv'd to champion all kings for all their land. 
She bore on her silk Burcoat gold spangles light and thin. 
That quiTering gave sweet glimpses of her fair snowy skin. 

448. 
Then came on her followers, and forward to the field 
Of ruddy gold far-sparkling bore a mighty shield. 
Thick, and broad, and weighty, with studs of steel o'erlaid, 
The which was wont in battle to wield the martial maid. 



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HOT OTTtTTHEB WOH BBDKHTtD. 77 

449. 

Aa thong to that huge buckler a gorgeous band there lay ; 
PreciouH atones beset it as green as grass in May ; 
"With varying hues it glitter'd against the glittering gold. 
Who would woo its wielder must be boldest of the bold. 

450. 
Beneath its folds enormous three spans thick was the shield, 
If all be true they tell us, that Brunhild bore in field. 
Of steel and gold compacted all gorgeously it glow'd. 
Four chamberliunB, that bore it, stagger'd beneath the load. 

451. 
Grimly smil'd Sir Hagan, Trony'a champion strong, 
And mutter' d, as he mark'd it trail'd heavily along, 
" How now, my lord king Gunther ? who thinks to scape with 

life? 
This lore of your's and lady — 'faith she's the devil's wife." 

452. 
Hear yet more of the vesture worn by the haughty dame ; 
From Azagouc resplendent her silken surcoat came 
Of all-surpassing richness, that &om about her shone 
Hie eye-bedimming lustre of many a precious stone. 

453. 
Then to the maid was carried heavily and slow 
Astrongwell-sharpen'djav'lin, which she ever us' d to throw, 
Huge and of weight enormous, fit for so strong a queen. 
Catting deep and deadly with its edges keen. 

454. 
To form the mighty spear-head a wondrous work was done ; 
Three weights of iron and better were welded into one ; 
The same three men of Brunhild's scarcely along could bring ; 
Whereat deeply ponder'd the stout Surgandiaii king. 



78 SETSHTH ADTBSTUHE. 

455. 

To himself thuB thought he, " what hftve I not to fear P 

The deril himaelf could scarcely 'scape from such danger clear. 

In Booth, if I were only in safety hy the Bhine, 

Long might remain this maiden free from all suit of mine." 

456. 
So thinking luckless Qunther his love repented sore ; 
Forthwith to hi m only his veapooB pages bore, 
And now stood clad the monuvh in arms of mighty cost. 
Hagan through sheer vexation his wits had nearly lost. 

457. 
On this Hagan's brother undaunted Dankwart spake, 
" Would we had ne'er s^'d hither for this fell maiden's sake 1 
Once we pass'd for warriors ; sure we have cause to rue, 
Ingloriously thus dying, and by a woman too ! 

458. 
Pull bitterly it irks me to have come into this land. 
Had but my brother Hagan his weapons in his hand, 
And I with mine were by him, proud Brunhild's chivalry, 
Eor all their overweening, would hold theax heads less high. 

459. 
Ay, by my feith, no longer should their pride be borne ; 
Had I oaths a thousand to peace imd friendship sworn, 
Ere I'd see thus before me my dearest master die, 
Fair as she is, this maiden a dreary corse should lie." 

460. 
" Ay," said his brother Hagan, " we well could quit this land 
Ab free as we came hither, were but our larms at hand. 
Each with his breast in himiess, his good sword by his side, 
Sure we should lower a httle this gentle lady's pride." 



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HOW QiniTHIB won BBVITETU). 79 

461. 
WeU heard the noble mudea the warrior's words the while, 
Aikd looking o'er her shoulder said with a scornful smile, 
" As he thinks himself so mighty. Til not deny a guest ; 
Take they their arms and armour, and do as seems them best. 

4f62. 
Be they naked and defenceless, or sheath'd in armour sheen, 
To me it nothing matters," said the haughty queen. 
" Fear'd yet I never mortal, and, spite of yon stem brow 
And all the strength of Gftnther, I fear as UtUe now." 

463. 
Soon as theirswordswere giv'n them,and arm'dwaseither kinght. 
The cheek of dauntless Dankwart redden'd with delight. 
" Now let them sport as hkea them, nothing,' ' said he, " care 1 ; 
Safe is noble Gunther with us in armour by." 

464. 
Then was the strength of Brunhild to each beholder shown. 
Into the ring by th' effort of panting knights a stone 
Was borne of weight enormous, msssy and large and round. 

It strain'd twelre brawny chmnpions to heave it to the ground. 
465. 

This would she cast at all times when she had hurl'd the spear ; 

The B^ht the bold Burgundians fill'd with care and fear. 

Quoth Hagan, " she's a darting to lie by Gunther's side. 

Better th^ foul fiend take her to serve him as a bride." 
466. 

Her sleeve back tum'd the maiden, and bar'd her arm of snow. 

Her heavy shield she bandied, and brandished to and &o 

High o'er her head the jav'lin ; thus began the strife. 

Bold as they were, the strangers each trembled for his life ; 



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80 BBVEHTH ADTBHTUEK. 

467. 

And had not then to help him come Siegfried to his Bide, 
At once by that grim maiden had good king (>uiither died. 
Unseen up went he to him, unseen he touch'd Mb hand. 
His trains bewilder'd Gunther was slow to understand. 

468. 
" Who was it juat now touch'd me ?" thought he and stw'd around 
To aee who couLd be near him ; not a soul be foimd. 
Said th' other, " I am Siegfried, thy trusty friend and true ; 
Be not in fear a moment for all the ^een can do." 

169. 
Said he, " off with the buckler and give it me to bear ; 
Now, what I shall advise tbee, mark with thy closest care. 
Be it thine to make the gestures, and mine the work to do." 
Glad man was then kiTig Gunther, when he his helpmate knew. 

470. 
" But all my trains keep secret ; thus for us both 'twere best ; 
Else this o'erweening maiden, be sure, will never rest. 
Till her grudge against thee to full effect she bring. 
See where she stands to face thee so eteraly in the ring \" 

471. 
With aU her strength the jav'lin the forcefiil maiden threw. 
It came upon the buckler massy, broad and new. 
That in his hand unshaken, the son of Sieglind bore. 
Sparks from the steel came streaming, as if the breeze before. 

472. 
Eight through the groaning buckler the Bpear tempestuous broke ; 
Fire from the mail-links sparkled beneath the tbund' ring stroke. 
Those two mighty champions stagger'd fivim side to side ; 
But for the wondrous cloud-cloak both on the spot bad died. 



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HOW. QITIITHKB WOH BBITNHILD. 81 

473. 

From the moutli of Sieg&ied burst the gushing blood ; 
Soon he again sprung forward ; atr&ight snatch'd the hero good 
The apear that through his buckler she just had hurl'd amam. 
And sent it at its nuBtresa in thunder back again. 

174. 
Thought he " 't were sore a pity^ so fiur a maid to slay ;" 
So he rovers'd the jar'lin, and tum'd the point away ; 
Yet, with the butt-end foremost, so forceful was the throw, 
That the sore-smitten damsel totter'd to and fro. 

475. 
From her mail fire spaiMed aa driven before the blast ; 
With such huge strength the jar'lin by Si^liad's son was cast, 
That 'gainst the fiuious impulae she could no longer stand. 
A stroke so sturdy never could come &om Gunther'a hand. 

476. 
Up in a trice she started, and straight her silence broke, 
" Noble knight. Sir Ghmther, 'thank thee for the stroke." 
She thought 't was Gunther's manhood had liud her on the lea ; 
No ! 't was not he had fell'd her, but a mightier for than he. 

477. 
Then tum'd aside the maiden ; angry was her mood ; 
On high the stone she lifted rugged and round and rude. 
And brandish'd it with fury, and tar before her flung, 
Then bounded quick behind it, that load her armour rung. 

478. 
Twelve fathoms' length or better the mighty mass was thrown, 
But the maiden bounded further than the stone. 
To where the stone was lying Siegfried fleetly flew ; 
Gunther did but lift it, th' Unseen it was, who threw. 



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82 SEVXFTH ADT^NTTTBE. 

479. 
Bold) tall and etrong was Siegfried,. the first all kitiglits among; 
He threw the atone fer fiirther, behind it iurther sprung. 
Hjb wondrous arts had made him so more than mortal strong, 
That with him, as he bounded, he bore the Mi^ along. 

480. 
The leap was seen of all men, there lay as plain the stoue, 
But seen was no one near it, save Gunther all alone. 
Brunhild was red with anger, quick came her panting breath ; 
SiegMed had reacued Gunther that daj &om certain death. 

481. 
Then all aloud feir Brunhild bespake her courtier band. 
Seeing in the ring at distance unharm'd her wooer atand, 
" Hither, my men and kinsmen : low to my better bow ; 
I am no more your mistress ; you're Gnnther's linemen now." 

4B2. 
Down cast the noble wairiora their weapons hastily, 
And lowly kneel'd to Qunther the king of Burgundy, 
To ham as to their sovran was kingly homage done. 
Whose manhood, as they lancied, the mighty match had won. 

483. 
He &ir the chiefs saluted bending with gracious look ; 
Then by the hand the maiden her conquering suitor took, 
And granted him to gorem the land with sovran sway ; 
Whereat the warlike nobles were joyous all and gay. 

484. 
Forthwith the noble Gunther she begg'd with her to go 
Into her royal pakce ; soon as *t was order'd bo, 
To his knights her servants such fiiendly court 'gan make. 
That Hagan e'en and Dankwart could it but kindly take. 



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HOW ODNIBBB WON BEVMHILD. 83 

186. 

Wise was the nimble SiegMed ; he left them there a space, 
And alily took the cloud-cloak back to its hiding-place, 
B«tum'd then in an imtant, where sat the ladies &ir, 
And straight, his &aad to cover, bespoke king Gnnther there. 

486. 
" Why dally, graciouB master ? why not the games begin, 
Wliicli by the queen, to prove you, have here appointed been ? 
Come, let us see the contest, and mark each knightly stroke." 
As though he had seen nothing, the crafty warrior spoke. 

487. 
" Why how can this have happen' d," said the o'ermaater'd queen, 
" That, as it seems. Sir Sieg&ied, the games you have not seen, 
Which 'gainst me good king Qunther hae gain'd with wondrouB 

might P" 
The word then up took Hsgan, the stem Burgundian knight ; 

488. 
" Our minds indeed you troubled, our hopes o'er-clouded dark ; 
Meanwhile the good knight SiegMed was busy at the bark, 
While the lord of Bhineland the game against you won ; 
Thus," said Wig Quuther's liegeman, "he knows not what was 
done." 

489. 
" Well pleas'd am I," said Siegfried, " that one so proud and bold 
At length has found a master in one of mortal mold, 
And has been taught submission by this good lord of mine. 
Now must you, noble maiden, hence follow us to the Bhine." 

490. 
Thereto replied the damsel, " it can not yet be so ; 
first mnst my men and kinsmea th' intended journey know ; 
To bring my friends together, besides, 't were surely fit. 
T* were wrong, methiuka, so lightly my lands and all to quit." 
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84 BXTEHTH ASTIFTDBX. 

491. 

80 meflBengere in hnny through all the coimtry went ; 

To liegemen, and to kinsmen, and all her fiienda she sent. 

To leenstiein she begg'd them to come withont delay, 

And bad give all in plenty rich gifts and gannents gay. 
492. 

Daily to BrunhOd's castle ewly tbey rode and late, 

In troops from all sides flocking, and all in martial state. 

"Ayl ay!" said frowning Hagan, "ill have we done, I fear; 

Surely 't wiU be our min to wait this gathering here. 

493. 
Let her strength be only here together brongbt 
(And of the queen's intentions we little know or nought), 
If so her passion wills it, we're lost at once, I trow. 
In sooth this dainty dunsel was bom to work ua woe." 

494. 
Then spoke the raliant Siegfried, " I'll undertake for all ; 
Trust me, what now you look for, that shall ne'er be&ll. 
Safe and sound to keep you, I'll hither bring a crew 
Of fierce, selected champions, of whom ye never knew. 

495. 
Inquire not of my journey ; I hence must instant fare ; 
The little while I'm absent God have you in his care. 
Again here will I quickly with a thousand men be found, 
The bravest and the boldest that ever moved on ground." 

496. 
" Be sure then not to linger," the anxious Ghmther said, 
" For we meanwhile shall ever be longing for your aid." 
" In a few days you'll see me at band for your dd'ence, 
And tell," said he, " fair Brunhild, that you have sent me hence." 



EIGHTH ADVENTURE. 

HOTT SQlQfBrGD CAJ£B HO TEB HIBXICir&EBS. 

497. 
Thence in his cloud-doak Sieg&ied descended to the Btraod ; 
There he found a shallop, that close laj to the land ; 
Fuseen the bark he boarded, that from the harbour pass'd 
Moved hj the boh of Siegmund, ae though before the blast. 

498. 
The steeraman conld see no man ; jet the vessel flew 
Beneath the Btrokes of Siegfried the yielding water through. 
'T was a tempest thought they, that drove it tiirious on. 
No ! 't was the strength^f Siegfried, fair Sieglind's peerless son. 

499. 
All that day they were running, and all the night the same, 
Then to a &mous country of mighty power they came, , 
Days' journey full a hundred stretching &r away, 
The Kibelungers' country, where his hard-won treasure lay. 

600. 
Alone the champion landed in a meadow wide ; 
Straight to the shore securely the little bark he tied, 
And then went to a castle seated upon a hill, 
To ask for food and shelter as weary trayeliers will. 

501. 
All found he barr'd and bolted as near the walls he drew ; 
Men both life and honour kept then as now they do. 
The stranger all impatient began a thundering din 
At the well fasten'd portal. There found he close within 



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86 ElOHTH ASTBNTirBB. 

502. 
A huge e&rth-ahaikmg giant, tlie caatle set fo guard, 
"Who with his weapons by Tii'tn kept ever watch and ward, 
" "Who beats the gate bo stoutly ?" the yawning monster aak'd ; 
His Toice, ae he gave answer, the crafty hero maek'd, 

503. 
And said, " I am a warrior ; open me the gate ; 
I'm wroth with lazy bsels who make their betters wait, 
"While they on down are enoring aa if they'd never wake." 
It irk'd the burly porter that thua the stranger spake. 

5(H. 
Now had the fearless g^ant all his weapons donn'd, 
Bound on his head his helmet, and in his monstrous hond 
A shield unmeaaur'd taken ; open the gate he threw, 
And his teeth grimly gnashing at Sieg&ied fiercely flew. 

605. 
" How could he dare to call up men of mettle bo ?" 
With that he let fly at him many a wind-swift blow, 
That the noble stranger put back with wary fence. 
At last upheav'd the giant an iron bar immense, 

506. 
And his firm shield-band shatter'd ; Bcarce conld the warrior 

stand, 
He fear'd, though for a moment, grim death was close at hand, 
"With his enormous weapon the pori«r smote so sore, 
Yet for his dauntless bearing he lov'd him all the more. 

507. 
With the mighty conflict the caatle rung around ; 
To th' hall of the Nibelungers reach'd the atunning sound. 
At length the Tanquish'dporter he bound with conquering hand. 
Far and wide flew the tidings through the Nibelungers' hmd. 



HOW SII!Q7BIBD CAUE TO THE BIBBLUBQSBS. 87 

608. 

"WMIe in the dubions Gombat they both were straggliiig still, 
Albric the wild dwarf heard it &r through the hollow hill. 
Straight he donn'd his armour, and thither rumung found 
7%e noble guest Tictorioua, and the panting giant bound. 

509. 
A stout dwarf was Albric, and bold as well as stout ; 
With helm and mml securely he was arm'd tbrotighout ; 
A golden scourge full heavy in Ms hand he swung. 
Straight nm he to the rescue, and fierce on Siegfried sprung. 

610. 
Seven ponderous knobs from th' handle hung, each one by its 

thong ; 
With these the dirarf kept pounding so sturdy and so strong, 
That he split the shield of Siegfried to the centre from the rim. 
And put the dauntless champion in care for life or limb. 

611. 
Away he threw his buckler broken all and smash'd ; 
TTJB long well<temper'd weapon into its sheath he dash'd. 
To spare his ovn dependents his virtue mov'd him still, 
And to his heart sore went it his chamberlain to kilL 

612. 
With mighty bands undaunted iu on the dwarf he ran ; 
By the beard he caught him, that age-hoary man. 
He dragg'd h™, and he shook him, his rage on him he wreak'd, 
And handled him so roughly, that loud for pain he shriek'd. 

513. 
lioud cried the dwuf o'ermaster'd, " spare me and leave me free, 
And could I ever serraat save to one hero he. 
To whom I've sworn allegiance as long as I have breath," 
Sud the crafly Albric, "you would I serve to death." 



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88 BIGHTH ADTKHrrES. 

514. 
Tlien bound was writhing Albric as the giant juat before ; 
The nervooB grasp of Siegfried pinch'd him and puD'd him Bore. 
Then thue the dwarf addrese'd him ; " be pleae'd your name to 

tell." 
Said he, " my name ie Sieg&ied ; I thought you knew me well." 

SIS. 
""Well's me for these good tidings," Albric the dwaff replied. 
" Now know I all your merit, which I by proof have tried. 
High rule o'er all this country well you deserve to bear ; 
I'll do whate'er you bid me ; the vanquish'd only spare," 

516. 
Then said the noble Siegfried ; "yon must hence with speed, 
And bring me, of the warriors that best we have at need, 
A thousand Nibelungers ; them I here must view ; 
No eril shall befall you, if this you truly do." 

517, 
The dwarf and eke the giant the champion straight unbound ; 
Then Ttax at once swift Albric where he the warrioFS found. 
The slumbering Nibelungers he wak'd with eager care. 
Saying, " up, np, ye heroes ! ye must to Siegfried fare." 

518. 
Up from their beds they started, and instant ready made. 
Nimble knights a thousand richly all array'd. 
So flock'dtheyquick.where waiting they saw Sir Sieg&ied stand; 
Then was there goodly greeting with word of mouth and clasp 
of band. 

619. 
Straight lit was many a taper ; then the spiced draught he drank; 
His friends, who came so quickly, he did not spare to thank. 
He Bud, " you hence must instant far o'er the ware with me." 
He found them for th' adventrnv as ready as could be. 



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HOW BIXG7BIE]) CAitX TO THE mSSLUHQEBB. 89 

620. 

Foil thirty liuudred wamora were eome at bis request ; 
Item these he chose a thousand the bravest and the best. 
Helmets and other armour were brought for all the band. 
For he resolv'd to lead them e'en to queen Brunhild's land. 

521. 
He Bud, " good knights adventurous, to my words g^ve heed. 
At the proud court of Brunhild our richest robes will need. 
There many a lovely lady will look on every guest, 
So we must all array ub in our choicest and our beat." 

522. 
" How ?" said a beardless novice, " that sure can never be. 
How can be lodg'd together so many knights as we P 
"Where could they find them victual P where could they find them 

Tests? 
Never could thirty kingdoms keep such a crowd of gueats." 

523. 
You've heard of Siegfried's riches ; well could he all afford 
With a kingdom to supply him, and N^iblung'B endless hoard. 
Bich gifts were in profusion to all his knights assign'd. 
Much as he drain'd the treasure, as much remain'd behind. 

524. 
£arly upon a morning in haete they parted thence. 
What prowest warriors Siegfried brought to his friend's defence ! 
Their armour darted radiuice, their horses toss'd the foam. 
W^ e(|uipp'd and knightly came they to Brunhild's home. 

525. 
At the windows Btanding look'd out the maidens gay. 
Then cried their royal mistress, " can any of you say, 
What strangers there &r-floating over the billows go P 
Their canvas they are spreading whiter far than snow. 

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w iianiH inTENTimB. 

526. 
Then apake the king of Bhmelond, " they're men of mine, fiiir 

dame, 
Whom I left not distant, wh^ late I hither came ; 
Since, I have bid them join me, and now you see them here." 
The noble guests reeeiT'd tbey with good and friendly cheer. 

627. 
Then might they see bold Siegfried, airay'd in robes of pride, 
Aboard a bark high standing, and many a chief beside. 
Then said the queen to Chmther, " Sir king, what now shall I ? 
Greet the guests advancing, or that grace deny ?" 

528. 
Said he, " to meet them, lac^, forth from your palace go, 
That, if you're glad to see them, the same they well may know." 
Then did the queen, aa Gunther had said him secm'd the best, 
And Siegfried in her greeting distinguish'd from the rest. 

529. 
They found them fitting quarters, and took their arms in charge > 
The guests were now bo many, that they were ill at large. 
Such troops of friends and strangers fiock'd in on every aide. 
So the bold Bui^undiaos now would homeward ride. 

630. 
Then aaid the &ir queen Brunhild, " him for my friend I'd hold, 
"Who'd help me to distribute my ailver and my gold 
Among my gueata and Gunther's ; no little store have I." 
Bold Giselher's bold liegeman Dankwart straight made reply ; 

631. 
" Bight noble queen and gracious, trust but your keys with me j 
Tour wealth I'll so distribute, all shall contented be. 
And aa to blame or damage, let that be mine alone." 
That he was free and liberal, that made he clearly shown. 



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BOW SIXaFBIED CAHE TO THE KIBELIHieKBS. 91 

632. 
Sooa as Hagan's brother had the keja in hand, 
Gold began and Bilver to run away like sand. 
H one a mark requested, gifts had he ahower'd bo rife, 
That home might go the poorest meny and rich for life. 

683. 
By tb' bundred pomids together he gave micoimted out. 
Crowds in gorgeous yesture were stalking all about, 
Who ne'er bad worn such splendour, and scarce ao much as seen. 
They told tbe tale to Brunhild ; it &etted sore the queen. 

534. 
Straight she spoke to Quutber, " Sir king, I've cause to grieve. 
Tour treasurer, I fear me, scuve a rag will leave 
Of all my choice apparel, my laat gold piece he'll spend. 
'Would somebody would atop it ! I'd ever be bis fnend. 

585. 
He wastes so, he must fancy in his wayward wiD 
I've sent for death to fetch me, but wealth I can use still. 
And what my fiitber left me can waste myself, I ween." 
Treasurer so free-handed never yet bad queen. 

636. 
Then spake tbe knight of Trony, " lady, you must be told. 
The king of Bbine has plenty of raiment and of gold. 
And can of both so lavish, that we may well dispense 
With all feir Brunhild's vesture, nor need bring any bence." 

537. 
" Nay, for my love," said Brunhild, " with gold and silken vests 
Ijet me from all my treasure fill twenty travelling chests. 
That when we come together in Burgundy to live. 
This hand may still have something royally to give." 



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ABTBITTUEE, 
538. 

Forthwith her chests were loaded with many a precious stone. 
She o'er the work appointed a treasurer of her own. 
She would not trust to Dankwart, Oiselher's thnfUesB man. 
G-oDther thereat and Hagau both to laugh began. 

539. 
Then spake the martial maiden, " whom shall I leave vaj lands ? 
This first must here be settled bj our united hands." 
The noble monarch answer' d, " who most is in jour grace, 
Him will we leave behind ua to govern in our place." 

640. 
One of her near relations was standing by the maid ; 
He was her mother's brother ; to him she tom'd and said, 
" Take to jour charge mj castles, and with them all my land. 
Till I or else king Gunther give otherwise command." 

541. 
She chose a thousand heroes from all her chivalry 
To the Bhine's distant borders to bear her company, 
"With the thousuid champions from the Nibelungers' land. 
They bown'd them fortheir journey, and hasten'd to the strand. 

642. 
Siz-and-eighly women, a hundred maidens too 
She took with her from Issland ; &ir were they all to view. 
They now no longer tarried ; they ready were to go. 
From those they left behind them what tears began to flow I 

543. 
In manner as becune her she 1^ her native ground ; 
She kiss'd her nearest kindred who weeping stood around. 
So with fail dismissal they came down to the shore. 
To her &ther'B countiy the maid retum'd no more. 



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HOW BiaOFBrKD WAS 9BNT TO W0HM8. 93 

614. 

"With Bound of all aweet muBic they floated on their way ; 
From mom to eve was nothing but change of sport and play ; 
The eoft sea-breeze they wish'd for waa fluttering in their sail ; 
Yet for that voyage how many were yet to weep and wail ! 

545. 
But atiU hep loid deferring with maidenly delay 
Bmnhild reaerv'd one pleasure to the fair wedding-day, 
When home to Worms together tiie king and queenly dame, 
YuH flown with mirth and rapture, with all their heroes came. 



NINTH ADVENTUEE. 

HOW SIEGEBIED WAS BENT TO WOBHS. 
646. 

Nnji; days had now the travellers been firing on their way, 
When spake the knight of Trony, " give ear to what I say. 
We're slow to send the tidings of our adventure home ; 
Tour mesBengerB already should to Burgundy have come." 

■647. 
To him replied king Gunther, " what you have Baid, is true. 
And none Bhould be so ready this very task to do, 
Ab e'en yourfielf, Mend Hagau ; so ride unto my land ; 
I4^one, I am sure, can better prodaim that we're at hand." 

548. 
Thereto gave imswer Hagan, " such duty auits not me ; 
Xet me tend the chamberB, and linger still at aea ; 
Or I'll stay with the women, and their wardrobe keep, 
Till to the Bhine we bring them Bafe &om the blustering deep. 



94 HIHTH 4BTKKTUEB. 

649. 

From Siegfried ask a journey of such a weary length, 
For he can veil perform it with hie BurpaBBing atrength. 
And, should he e'en refuse it, him to consent you'U move, 
If you but beseech him for your fair siate/s love," 

550. 
Straight Bent he for the warrior ; he came aa soon aa found ; 
Said G-uuther, "now we're coming home to my native ground. 
Fain would I give quick notice by aome sure fiieud of mine 
To my sister and my mother that we approach the Bhine. 

551. 
Thia I entreat you, Siegfried ; now do what I desire, 
And 111 in full requite you, whatever yon require," 
But ne'er consented Siegfried, the never-conquer'd man. 
Till in another fashion the king to ask began. 

652. 
Said he, " nay, gentle Siegfried, do but this journey take, 
Not for my sake only, but for my sister's aake. 
Toull oblige fair Ertemhild in this as weU as me." 
"When ao implor'd was Siegfried, ready at once waa he. 

658. 
*' Whate'er you will, command me ; let nought be left imaaid ; 
I will gladly do it for the lovely maid. 
How can I refiiae her who my heart haa won ? 
For her, whate'er your pleasure, tell it, and it is done," 

554. 
" Tell then my mother Uta, the rich uid mighty queen, 
We in our dangerous journey right fortunate have been. 
Inform my loving brothers, we have succeeded well ; 
And to my court and kindred the same glad tidings tell. 



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HOV BI£QFBIED WAS fiXITT TO WOBMB. 95 

555. 

From my gentle sister nothing conce&l'd must be ; 

Bear her the kindeBt greeting from Brunhild and from me. 

Proclaim to ereiy liegeman and every aoxbus Mend, 

That my heart'B lingering long^g I've brought to happy end. 

556. 
And teU my loving nephew, the knight of Metz, Ortwine, 
That eeatB he bid in order be r^'d along the Ehine. 
And do my other kijumen to wit, both most and leaBt, 
That I will hold with Brunhild a gorgeous marriage-feast. 

657. 
Fail not to tell my sister, that, soon as she shall hear 
That I, returning homeward, with all my guests are near, 
She well receive and kindly the lady of my heart, 
And lore and service ever shall be her's on Gunther'a part." 

658. 
Leave then took Sir Siegfried of Gunther's haughty dame. 
And of her ftur attendants, aa him well became, 
And for the Bhine departed ; never could there be 
In all this world a better messenger than he. 

559. 
With four-and-twenty warriors to Worms he hotly sped ; 
Sing Qunther came not with him ; when this abroad was spread. 
The hearts of all his servants were wrung with mortal pain ; 
They fear'd, the might of Brunhild their noble king had slain. 

560. 
Down sprang all from their horses ; their thoughts were proud 

and high; 
Straight the good young king Qiselher ran to them hastily, 
And Gemot his bold brother ; soon spoke he, having eyed 
The troop, and misa'd king Gnnther from noble Siegfried's side, 



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88 KIKTH ADTBTITT7EK. 

561. 

"'Welcometo'VVonaB, Sir Siegfried; teUuBirfiat news you brings 
What have you done with Gunther, our brother and our king ? 
I iear me, we have lost him, fierce Brunhild was too strong i 
So has his lo%' passion brought us but loss and wrong." 

562. 
" Aw^ with fear and sorrow ! to you and all his tin 
My comrade sends his greeting ; a conqu'ror he has been, 
And safe and sound I left him ; from him despatch'd I come 
To bring the gladsome tidings to all his friends at home. 

663. 
You also must contrive it, for your's the task should be, 
How I may straight your mother and your fiur sister see. 
To carry them the message that I receiv'd so late 
From Qunther and from Brunhild ; both ore in best estate." 

564. 
Toung Qiselher then answer'd ; " go straight to them and tell 
The tale you're charg'd to carry ; 'twill please my sister well. 
Fear for the fate of Chinther is heavy on her breast. 
I'll vouch, that vrith the maiden you'll prove a welcome guest." 

565. 
Then spake the noble Siegfried, " whatever 1 can do 
To serve her, she shall find me a willing friend and true. 
Who now will tell the ladies, that I an audience crave ?" 
Giaelher took the message, the high-bom youth and brave. 

666. 
To the lovely maiden and the stately dame 
Spoke the youthfril warrior, when to their sight be came, 
" Siegfried is come with tidings for our hearing meant ; 
Him my brother Gnnther hither to the Rhine has sent. 



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WAS BENT TO WOBMB. 97 

567. 
By him he's charg'd to tell us, how atanda it with the Mug ; ' 
Fennit him then his meaaage hither to court to bring ; 
"VThate'er befell in Isaland from him you'll truly know," 
E'en thua the Doble ladies still harbour'd fear and woe. 

568. 
Up for their robes th^ gtaited, and each herself array' d. 
Then bad Sir Siegfried enter ; he willingly obey'd, 
For much he long'd to see them ; then, ere the warrior spoke, 
Silence the blushing KriemMld with friendly accents broke. 

669. 
" Welcome, Sir Siegfried, hither, boldest of the bold ! 
"Where is my brother Gunther ? straight be your tidings told. 
I fear me, we have lost him, and here are left forlorn. 
Woe's me nnhappy maiden, that ever I was bom !*' 

670.- 
Th^i spake the warrior, "give me the guerdon of good news; 
Yon weep for sake of weeping ; so you frdr ladies me, 
I left him safe and hearty ; of this assure you well. 
He to you both has sent me the joyful tale to telL 

571. 
To you, as best beseems him, with gradous kind intent 
He and his bride their service, right noble queen, have sent. 
And soon will both come hither, so dry your idle tears." 
Tor many a day such gladness had never blesa'd her ears. 

572. 
Straight with her snow-white apron she wip'd her tears away. 
And dried her eyes fium weeping; then, once more fresh and gay. 
Began to thuik the envoy for bis happy tale, 
That ended her deep sorrow and heart-consuming wtul. 



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98 NIHTH ADTBNTIJHE. 

-573. 

She bad the knight be seated ; notiiing loth waa he ; 
Then spake the lovely maiden ; " 't were no amall joy for me. 
Could I with gold reward you for what you just have aaid ; 
But you're for that too wealthy ; take my good will instead." 

574. 
*' Were I," rephed the champion, " the lord of thirty lands, 
Still would I take with pleasure a gift from your &ir hands." 
Straight said the modest damsel, " then you shall be content." 
So for the costly guerdon her treasurer she sent. 

676. 
Four and twenty bracelets she gave liim for his fee, 
Each set with stones full precious ; yet so proud was he, 
That he would not keep them, hut gave the jewels rare 
To her lovely mtddens, whom he found in waitiDg there. 

576. 
And then her mother greeted the noble warrior well. 
" To both of you," replied he, " I yet have more to tell. 
Whereof the king entreats you. Mid, if you but attend 
To what he asks so dearly, he'll ever be your fnend. 

677. 
His noble guests, he begs you, and his beauteous bride 
Beceive with kindly welcome, and forth to meet them ride 
On the strand before the city. To you has sent the king 
This true and gracious message, which I as truly bring." 

678. 
" I'm ready at his bidding," the lovely maid replied, 
" Whate'er I can to serve hirn shall never be denied, 
So heartily and truly his pleasure will I do." 
Then her love-hmdled blushes glow'd a deeper hue. 



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HOW SISQTBIEI) WAS SENT TO WOBHS. 99 

579. 

Never prince's envoy a heartier welcome won ; 

Had she dar'd to kiss him, fiiin would she so have done. 

In loving wise he parted from th' unwilling maid. 

Forthwith the bold Burgundians did as the warrior hade. 
680. 

Sindolt and Hunolt and Bumolt the good knight 

Early and lato were stirring as briskly as they might ; 

They rais'd the seats in order, such duty well they knew ; 

From side to side unwearied the royal servants flew. 
681. 

Ortwine of Metz and Gary, king Qiinther's liegemen bold, 

The marriage feast, that forthwith their master was to hold, 

Proclmm'dto friends and neighbours ; agdnat the festal day 

Every noble maiden prepar'd her best array. 

682. 
Adom'd was all the palace, and richly every wall 

Bedeck'd to grace the strangers ; king Gnnther's spacious hall 

By the skill was fiubish'd of many a foreign man ; 
With mrariment and pastime the royal feast began. 

583. 
By every road advancing with ceaseless press and din 
Floch'd all to Worms together the royal brethren's kin, 
Summon'd by hasty message to meet th' expected guests. 
Then from the folded wrappers were ta'en the well-ator'd vests. 

681. 
Sudden ^read the tidings, that now one might espy 
Brunhild's friends advancing ; straight rose a press and cry 
'Mong the Bui^^dian thousands, that waiting stood around. 
Ah ! what men of valour on either side were found t 

sa 

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imJTH ADTEHTXIKE. 



Then apaike the lovely Eriemhild, " my m^^ns tail and &«e. 
Who at this reception must bear your part with me, 
Iiet each her choice apparel search out from secret chest ; 
The matrons too I'd counsel to prank them in their beat." 



Then forward came the warriora, and atrajghtth' attendants toU. 

To bring forth aumptuoua aaddlea o'erlaid with ruddy gold. 

Whereon might ride the ladies, from Worms imto the Bhine. 

Never was better horse-gear beheld, nor work so fine. 
687. 

What store of gold resplendent about the palflieB shone ! 

From their gorgeous bridles gleam'd many a precioua atone. 

Bichly gilt aide-saddles with trappings of bright hue 

Were brought forth for the ladies, who gladden'd at the view. 
588. 

Capariaon'd all richly with silken housinga rare 

Was led a gentle palfrey for eveiy lady there. 

Each ateed a silken poitral (the silk was of the beat 

That e'er was spun or iashion'd) had hanging at his breast. 

589. 
Six and eighty ladiea, each a married dame, 
With hair ybound in fillets to lovely Kriernhfld came, 
Each radiant in her beauty, each in rich garb wray'd ; 
Thither too in frill adornment came many a blooming miud. 

590. 
Fifty and four, the &irest and of the best report 
Of all, whose beauty honour'd the proud Burgundian court, 
Went forth with glittering laces above their flaxen hair. 
What GuntlieT had requested, all did with all their care. 



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HOTT BIEeFBrBI) VAS B£KT TO TOBMB. 101 

591. 

The best stuffs and the richest, that e'er were found, they bore 
To meet the stranger heroes ; every robe they wore 
With care and skill was chosen to suit their lovely hue. 
He were a fool, who'd murmur at one of th&t tier crew. 

592. 
Of sable and of ermine many a robe was there, 
And many a sparkling bracelet o'er silken rMment iwr 
The wrists and arms encircled of many a lady gay. 
The care, the taste, the splendour none might at full display. 

693. 
Many a glittering girdle, that rich and long down hung. 
By many a snowy finger o'er gorgeous weed was flung 
To bind the far-brought garment of stuff from Araby. 
Each noble damsel's bosom swell'd high and joyfully. 

691. 
In the tighten'd boddice many a smiling maid 
Had laced herself full deftly ; each were ill]|apay'd 
Sid not her bright comptexioii outshine her vesture sheen. 
A train so Sail and graceful now has ne'er a queen. 

595. 
Soon as the lovely ladies for the joyful day 
Had donn'd their rich apparel, forthwith, in meet array, 
Of bold high-mettled warriors a mighty force drew near. 
With mffiiy a shield bright-beaming and many an ashen spear. 



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TENTH ADVENTURE. 

HOW BBVHEILD WA8 BECEITED AT WOBHB. 
S96. 

BfiTOND tte Bhine ting Qimther, with niMiy a well-ami'd rank 
And all his gueats about him, rode toward the river's bank ; 
You might see by the bridle led forward maaj a maid. 
Those, who were to receive them, were ready all array' d. 

597. 
Soon as the mea of Isaland came to the shallopB down, 
And ehe the Nibeluugers, lieges of Siegfried's crown, 
To th' other shore they hasten'd (busy was eveiy hand) 
Where them the Mends of Qnnther awaited on the strand. 

598. 
Now hear, by wealthy TJta what a device was wrought. 
Down with her from the caetle a virgin trtun she brought. 
That rode where she was riding in that procession bright ; 
So many a maid acquainted became with many a knight. 

599. 
Kriemhild by the bridle the margrave Gary led. 
But only from the castle ; then forward Siegfried sped, 
And did that gentle service ; fair was the blushing mtad ; 
Full well for that thereafter the warrior she repaid. 

600. 
Ortwine, the fearless champion, rode by dame tTta's rein; 
Enigbts and maids together follow'd, a social train. 
At such a stately meeting, all must confess, I ween. 
So many lovely ladies were ne'er together seen. 



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HOir BBtmHIlD WAS BBCIITBD AT VOBUS. 103 

601. 

!Full many a ftmons clumpioii careering 7011 might; spy 
(HI there were sloth and idleaee) beneath &ir Eriemhild'e eye 
E'en to the place of landing ; bj knighta of lair renown 
There many a high-born hidy front steed was lifted down. 

602. 
The king was now come over, and many a worthy guest. 
Ah ! before the ladies what spears were laid in rest ! 
How many went in Bhivers at every hurtling close ! 
Buckler clashed with buckler ; ah ! what a din erom ! 

608. 
Now might you see the ladies fast by the haven stand. 
With his guests king Qunther debark'd upon the strand, 
In his hand soft leading the martial maiden fair. 
Then each on each flaah'd radiwice, rich robes and jewels rare. 

604. 
With that the smiling EJriemhiid forth stepp'd a little space. 
And Brunhild and her meiny greeted with gentle grace. 
Bach with snowy fingers back her headband drew. 
And either kisa'd the other lovingly and true. 

605. 
Then spoke in conrteous manner Kriemhild the fur and free, 
" In this our land, dear Brunhild, ever welcome he 
To me and to my mother and all by us allow'd 
For bithfiilfiienda and liegemen." Theneach to th' other bow' d. 

606. 
Next to greet dame Brunhild approach'd dame TTta too ; 
Ofb she and oft her daughter their arms around her threw, 
And on her sweet mouth lavish'd many a loving kiss. 
Never was known a welcome so kind and frank as this. 



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101 TENTH ASTESTTTBE. 

607.. 

Soon as Brunhild's women were all come to the strand, 
Many a courtly warrior took by her lily hand 
A lady tail, and gently her mincing steps upstay'd. 
Ifow before ixaae Brunhild stood many a noble maid. 

606. 
'Twas long before the greeting had gone through all the list. 
On either part in plenty rosy mouths were kisa'd. 
Still the two &ir princeaaes were atanding side by aide, 
A pair with love and rapture by longing warriors ey'd. 

609. 
What erat had been but rumour, was now made clear to sight, 
That nought had yet been witness'd so beautiful and bright 
As those two lovely diunsels ; 't was plun to every eyo ; 
None the slightest blemiah in either form could spy. 

610. 
Whoever look'd on women with but the sight for guide, 

Such for her faultless beauty praia'd Gunther's stately bride ; 

But those, whoae thoughts went deeper, and div'd into the mind, 

Maintain'd that gentle Kriemhild left Brunhild far behind. 
611. 

Now met the damea and damsela in friendly converse free ; 

Ftur robea and feirer beauties were there in store to aee ; 

Many a silk pavilion and many a gorgeous tent 

The plain before the city M'd in its whole extent. 
612. 

King CHmtha^'s kinamen ceaa'd not to preaa to that fair show. 

And now was begg'd each princess frttm the aun to go 

Close by, with their attendants, where ahade waa overhead. 

By bold Burgundiui warritnrs thither were they led. 



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HOW BBDKHILD WAS BECXITXD AT WOBUB. t05 

613. 

Then clomb to horse the heroes, and Bcour*)! the Bounding field ; 

Maaj a joust waa practie'd with order'd epear and shield ; 

Bight well wereprov'd the champioua, and o'er the trampled plain, 

Ab though the land were burning, the duet: cuil'd up amain. 
614. 

So all before the ladiea display'd their skill and force, 

Nor doubt I that Sir Siegfried rode many a knightly course 

Sefore the rich pavilions, and, ever aa he Bped, 

His thouBand Nibelungera, a stately squadron, led. 
615. 

Then came the knight of Trony by the good king's command ; 
In friendly wise he parted the joustere on the strand. 

For fear the dust, now thick'ning, the ladiea might molest. 
Him with ready reverence obey'd each gentle guest. 

616. 
Then spake the noble Oemot, "let each now rest his steed 
Till the air be cooler, 't will then be our's to lead 
These lovely ladies homeward e'en to the palace wide. 
So keep yourselres all ready till it please the king to ride." 

617. 
Thus ended was the tourney, and now the warriors went 
To join the dames uid damsels beneath each lofty tent, 
And there in gentle converse their grace and favour sought ; 
So flew the hours in pastime till of riding home they thought. 

618. 
Now as drew on the twilight, when cooler grew the air 
And the sun was setting, they would not linger there. 
But up rose lords and ladies to seek the castle high ; 
Many a &ir dame was cheriah'd by many a love-lit eye. 



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106 TXHTH ADTXlTTrBE. 

6id. 

So OB the iair they waited as &om good knights is due. 
Then hf^y squirea, hot-Bpurring before the nobles' view, 
After the country's custom rode for the prize of weed 
As ^ aa to the palace, wh^^ sprung the king from steed. 

620. 
There too the proud qneensparted, each takingthence her way. 
Dame ITta and her daughter with their handmaids gay 
Into a spacious chamber both together went. 
There might you bear cm all sides the sound of merriment. 

621. 
Tn ball the seats were order'd ; the ting would instant hie 
"With all his guests to table ; beside him you might spy 
TTia lovely bride, queen Brunhild ; her royal crown she wore 
There in king Ghinther's country ; eo rich was none before. 

622. 
Seats were there plac'd unnumber'd with tables broad aad good, 
As is to us reported, foil be^'d with costly food. 
How little there was wanted that passes for the best ! 
There with the king was seated full many a noble guest. 

623. 
The chamberiains of Onnther in ewers of ruddy gold 
Brought to the guests the water ; should you be ever told 
That at a prince's table service was better done, 
'T were labour lost to say so, 't would be beHev'd by none. 

624. 
Then, ere the lord of Bhineland touch'd the water bright, 
TTp to him, as befitted, went Siegfried the good knight. 
And brought to his remembrwice the promise made him there. 
Ere yet a&r in Issland he look'd on Brunhild fiiir. 



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BOTT BBUtrHILS WAS BECXITXD AT WOBHS. 



Said he, "you must remember what swore to me your hand, 
That, soou as lady Bnmhild were come into thla hud, 
1o me you'd give your eister ; your oaths now where are they ? 
On me throughout your journey mucK toil and travail lay." 

626. 
" Wdl did you to remind me," the noble king replied, 
" By what my hand has promis'd, I ever will abide. 
And in this thing to eerre you will do my beet, my all." 
Then sent he to beg KriemMLd to come into the hall. 

627. 
Straight to the hall came Kriemhild begirt with many a maid. 
When from the lofty staircase young Giselher thus said, 
"Send back your maidens, KriemhOd, tbis bus'nees is your own ; 
On this the king our brother would speak with you alone." 

628. 
Then forward led waa Kriemhild, as Qunther gave command. 
Where stood the ting, and round him from many a prince's land 
Were noble knights imnumber'd ; at once all sUenee kept ; 
At that same instant BmnhUd had just to table stepp'd. 

629. 
Thence came it, she knew nothing of what was to be done. 
Then to his gather'd kinsmen spoke Dankrat's royal son, 
" Help me to move my sister Siegfried for lord to take." 
"Suchmatch,"they all gave answer, "with honour she maymake." 

630. 
Then spoke the Hug to Kriemhild, " sister, I ask of thee 
From an oath to set me by thy kindness free. 
Thee to a knight I promis'd ; if thou become his bride, 
Thoult do the willof Gunther, and show thy love beside." 



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108 TESTH ADTESTCBE. 

681. 

Then Bpabe the noble maiden, " deareet brother mine, 

It needed not to ask me ; whate'er command be thine, 

I'll willingly perform it ; so now, for thy sake. 

Whom thou for husband giv'at me, fein I, my lord, will take." 

632. 
With love and eke with pleasure redden'd Siegfried's hue ; 
At once to lady Kjiemhild he pledg'd his service true. 
Th^ bad them stand together in the courtly circle brighti 
And ask'd her if for husband she took that lofty knight. 

633. 
In modest maiden fashion she bluah'd a little space, 
But such was Siegfried's fortune and his earnest grace. 
That not altogether could she deny her hand. 
Then her for wife acknowledg*d the noble king of Netherland. 

634. 
He thus to her afBanc'd, and to him the maid, 
Straight round the long-sought damsel in blushing grace airay'd 
His arms with soft emotion th' enamour'd warrior threw. 
And kiss'd the high-bom princess before that glitt'ring crew. 

636. 
On this up broke the circle, and to the feast they came ; 
There high-advanc'd Sir Siegfried sat with his spoused dame 
Bight opposite to Guntber ; him many a vassal true 
B^rv'd at the board, and near him his Nibelungers drew. 

636. 
High at the feast sat Ghmther and Brunhild by his side. 
But woe was then the maiden, when Eriemhild she espied 
Sitting by valiant Siegfried ; she straight began to weep, 
And her bright visage darken'd with shame and passion deep. 



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BOW BBUHHILIl WAS BBCSITEIl AT WOEMS, 109 

637. 
Then spake the king of Bhineknd, " That ailB jou, lady mine, 
That jour fiur eyes are clouded, and dimm'd their beamy shine? 
Ton rather should be merry, now that my linemen true. 
My country and my caetleB are subject all to you." 

638. 
" Good cause have I for weeping," retum'd the angry fair ; 
" My very heart is bleeding to see your sister there 
Be«de your lowly vassal sitting so content ; 
Hever shall I cease weeping for Buch dieparagement." 

639. 
Then spake the noble Gunther, " no more of thie, I pray ; 
Tou shall be told the reason on some other day, 
"Wherefore I to Siegfried my sister gave for wife. 

May she with him ever lead a happy life !" 
640. 

Quoth she, " I sorrow ever for her grace and beauty's sake j 

Had I a place to fly to, my flight I hence would take. 

For lie will I never, king Gunther, by your side, 

Ere I know why Kriemhild is given for Siegfried's bride." 
641. 

Thereto made answer Gunther, " that will I tell yon straight. 

Enow, I have given my sister to no unequal mate ; 

A mighty king is Siegfried, and unto him belong. 

As to their righttui sovran, broad lands and castles strong." 
642. 

"Whatever he could tell her, her gloomy mood she kept. 

Then from the board to tilting many a warrior stepp'd. 

The noise of their tourney made all the castle ring. 

His guests and their amusements wearied sore the king. 

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110 TSMTH ADTENTrBB. 

61S. 

Thought he, 't were softer lying in a marriage bed. 

Then, to beguile annoyance, hia longing heart he fed 

With thought of fiiture pleasure from love of such a, bride, 

And ever lady Brunhild tenderly he ey'd. 
644. 

The guests were bid give over the tonm^, as waa meet. 

The Tring with his fair lady would now to bed retreat. 

Before the hall's grand staircase Kriemhild and Brunhild met ; 

Bitterness or rancour on neither side was yet. 
645. 

Then came th' attendant courtiers; they linger'd now fornought; 

Chamberkina weU-apparel'd the tapers to them brought. 

The followers then divided of the rulers twain ; 

Then might you see with Siegfried go forth a nmn'rous trdn. 

646. 
And now the royal bridegrooms both to their chambers came ; 
Each thought with fond caresses to woo his gentle dame, 
That both might, as befitted, in love's soft bonds agree. 
The night to noble Siegfried was sweet as sweet might be. 

647. 
There lay he so delighted by lovely Eriemhild's side. 
And found such modest graces in his virgin bride. 
That he came to love her more than hia proper life. 
Well she deserv'd his passion as a virtoous wife. 

648. 
What more ensued between them it needs not here to say. 
Now you must hear the story, how king Gimther lay 
By the fidr lady Brunhild. Many a loving swain 
By his loving helpmate with more content has hun. 



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HOW BBTnVHILD WA8 BEOErVITD AT WOBHa. Ill 

649. 
The crowd had now all Tanish'd, that tended them before ; 
Of the marriage chamber faet was made the door. 
He deem'd he now was shortly to win his IcmAy mate, 
But for that happy moment he yet had long to wait. 

650. 
In robe of whitest linen to the bed she paas'd ; 
Then thought the noble Ounther, " now all is mine at last, 
That I ever long'd for before in all my life," 
Needs must be blest a husband in such a charming wife. 

651. 
And now with trembling fingers 'gan he ahroud the light. 
Then went with glad espectance where lay hia lady bright, 
And laid him down beside her, nor small the joy he knew, 
When his arms around her tenderly he threw, 

652. 
Fain would he have careaa'd her as gentle lore inspires, 
Had but the wayward miuden granted his desires ; 
But there he sore was troubled, bo fiercely storm'd hia mate. 
Helook'd for fond affection, and met with deadly hate. 

653. 
*' Sir knight," said she, "it suits not— you'd better leave me free 
From all your present purpose — it must and shall not be. 
A maid still will I keep me (think well the matter o'er) 
TiU I am told that atoiy." This fretted Gunther sore. 

651. 
Then for her love he struggled e'en till her robe he rent ; 
With that, up caught the muden a cord with fell intent 
(About her waist she woro it, strong was the same and tough). 
And wrought her lord and master shame and wrong enough. 



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112 TENTH ADTBUTUKB. 

655. 

The feet and hands of Giinther she tied together all. 
Then to a nail she bore him, and hung him 'gainst the vail. 
And bad him not disturb her, nor breathe of love a breath. 
Sure from the doughty damsel he all but met his death. 

656. 
Humbly to beg began he, who master should have been, 
" Untie me, I beseech you, right fair and noble queen ! 
For your love will I never against your pleasure try. 
And ne'er ^ain will venture so close to yon to lie." 

657. 
How he far'd she reck'd not, while soft herself she lay ; 
So tdl night long be dangled perforce till break of day. 
When through the chamber window the li^t began to peep. 
That night was Gunther's pleasure as little as his sleep, 

658. 
"Now tell me, good Sir Gunther," began the froward feir, 
" Would you like your servants to find you hanging there 
The bondsman of a woman ? that were a royal view !" 
The noble knight made answer, " no credit 't were to you ; 

669. 
And in good sooth," he added, " 't were honour none to me ; 
So of your kindness, lady, be pleas'd to set me free ; 
Since my love's so distaate&l, fear neither harm nor hurt. 
Not so much as a finger of mine shall touch your skirt." 

660. 
With that the maid unbound him ; free stood he, but half dead ; 
Then all aghast and trembling back totter'd to the bed, 
And there lay down so distant that her night-dress Mi 
He seldom toucb'd, if ever ; e'en that she well could spare. 



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HOW BBDNHILl) WAS BECEITED Ar W0BH8. 113 

661. 

Now in came their attendants ; by theae in hand were borne 
New gaudy robea in plenty to suit the marriage mora. 
Downcast he atood and moody amidst the smiling band. 
Their mirth aeem'd out of season to the monarch of the land. 

662. 
After the good old custom that in that land was kept. 
King Chinther and queen Brunhild forth &om the chamber 

stepp'd, 
And hied them to the minster, where the mass was sung. 
Thither too ovme Sir SiegMed; then rose a press thecrowd among. 

663. 
Each circumstance of honour for monarch and his mate 
Was there in order ready, both crown and robe of state. 
Then consecrated were they, and, soon as that was o'er, 
With jewel'd crowns conspicuous stood all the goodly four. 

664. 
Bold squires with sword were girded sii hundred at the leaat 
In honour of the rulers at that high marriage feast. 
Was nought but mirth and joyance in Burgundy to hear. 
And swashing of the buckler, and clattering of the spear. 

666. 
There too at many a window sat many a laughing maid, 
To view in mimic terror &r-flaahing arms displayed ; 
But still, whatever was toward, kept the sad king apart, 
With gloom upon his visage and anguish at his heart. 

666. 
'Twixt him and good Sir SiegMed what difference of mood ! 
Well guess'd what bo him &etted that noble knight and good. 
To the king he betook him, and ash'd in accents low, 
" Last night how fer'd it with you ? this be pleas'd to let me 
know." I 

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114 TENTH ADTKKTBBE. 

667. 

Then to his guest Bald Gunther, " Bhame, alas ! and strife. 
My friend, I home hare brought me in my waywaj^ wife. 
No sooner came I near her, what did she do, but tie 
My feet and hands together, and hang me up on high f 

668. 
There like a ball I dangled all night till break of day 
Before she would unbind me ; — ^how soft the while she lay 1 
I breathe my plaint in friendship to thy secret ear." 
Then spake the noble Siegfried ; " it irks me, what I hear -, 

669. 
Yet you ehall soon be master ; lay fear and sorrow by ; 
This night I'U so contrive it, that close to you she'll lie. 
And never more your pleasure with frwwud fr«^s delay." 
At this frwm all hia troubles wax'd Gunther blithe and gay. 

670. 
" Look at my wrists and fingers swoln with her cursed bands ; 
She squeez'd them so, I felt me a baby in her hands. 
Under each nail forth started the blood beneath her grac^. 
As Ibr my life, I thought it e'en then at the last gasp." 

671. 
Thereto replied Sir Siegfried, " all will again come right ; 
We two were most unequal in fortune yesternight. 
To me thy sister Kriemhild is Abut as is my life. 
Now must dame Brunhild also be made a loving wife. 

672. 
I will this night," he added, " into your chamber creep, 
Envelop'd in my cloud-cloak, in silence still and deep. 
That no man may have cunning to guess the trick I'U play ; 
So send, each to his lodging, your cbamberlaina away. 



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HOW DSUtfHILD WAS BICEITKt AT WOEMS. 116 

673. 
The t^ers I'll extinguish that your pages bear. 
And this shajl give you notice that I have enter'd there, 
Beady and glad to serve you ; I'll force her to obey 
This night her lord and master, or down my life will lay." 

&7i. 
" Spare but to act the husband, and do whate'er thy wiU 
"With my loving helpmate, I shall not take it ill," 
Seplied the angry monarch ; " e'en shouldat thou take her life, 
I should not die of sorrow 'sooth she's a fearful wife." 

67S. 
" Trust me in this," said Siegfried, " my word I'll pledge to thee 
That I'll ne'er seek to woo her ; thy sister is to me 
B^ond all other women that ever met my view." 
The king with fiJl afSance took Siegfiried's words for true. 

676. 
The knights were busy tilting with good BuccesB or iU ; 
Straight 't was bidd'n the tourney should all be hush'd and still. 
For to the hall was coming either royal bride. 
Then chamberiams advancing bad staud the crowd aside. 

677. 
The court was clear'd of horses, the crowd no longer seen ; 
Then forth & reverend bishop led either lofty queen 
To where the kings were seated, and tables richly stor'd. 
Them many a man of worship follow'd to the board. 

678. 
There by his stately consort sat Quuther well apay'd, 
Musing upon the promise to him by Siegfried made. 
That single day to Oimther seem'd tlurty days at least. 
On the love of Brunhild he thought throughout the feast. 



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116 TBWTH ADTEHTOEK. 

679. 

Scarcelj coiild wait the monarch till from the board they rose ; 
Brunhild and lovely Kriemhild were summon'd to repose, 
Each in her several chamber ; ah 1 what a crowd waa seen 
Of young uid active warriorB before each stately queen ! 

680. 
Siegfried was fondly seated by hia gentle bride ; 
Her slender anowy fingers, as leant they side by ride. 
With hia were softly toying ; in midst of her caress 
Suddenly he vanish' d — ^how, she could not guess. 

681. 
As with him she was playing, she misa'd him quite and clean. 
" Ha !" to his wilder'd courtiers cried out the wilder'd queen, 
" Where's the kingF what portent is this P what semblance fine? 
He was but now beside me— who suatcb'd hia hand from mlneF" 



She stopp'din speechleaa wonder; he quick had slipp'd away 
To where with lights th' attendants stood ranged in meet array, 
And straight 'gan dout the tapets held by the pages there ; 
Full well that it was Siegfried was Gnnther then aware. 

68a. 
He knew what was to follow, ao sent forth every one, 
Miud uid dame, horn the chamber; then soon aa thia was done, 
With his oven hand impatient the king lock'd fast the door, 
And two strong bolts of iron shot for aeaurance more. 

684. 
Behind the flowing hangings the hghta he huddled all ; 
Forthwith began a pastime (as could not but be&ll) 
Betwixt the sinewy Siegfried and the maiden fair. 
At once vrith joy and sorrow stood Ounther trembling there. 



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HOV BBUNHILD WU aSOEITISD A.I WOBltB. 11/ 

686. 

Adown Sir Sieg&ied laid him close by the daniael bright. 
Said she, " beware, Sir Ghmther, remember yeBtemight ; 
Be pleas'd not to disturb me ; wake not my vrath anew, 
Or at my haodg your folly you bitterly Bhall me." 

686. 
He breath'd no breath in answer, but still was as could be. 
Well by the ear knew Gunther, although he coiild not see. 
That nothing pass'd between them the jealous to displease. 
Never in couch or chamber dwelt there so little ease. 

687. 
Like Oiintberhe demean'd him, false mimic of the true ; 
Around th' unloving damsel his loveless arms he threw. 
TTim &om the bed with fury against a bench she flung. 
Sis head fell on a footstool so hard, that loud it rung. 

688. 
With all his might upstarted again th' undaunted man ; 
He'd try bis fortune better ; a struggle stem began, 
When he essay'd to quell her ; long was bis toil and sore ; 
Such strife, I ween, will never be waged by woman more. 

669. 
As still he would not quit her,- up sprung the frenzied fair ; 
" Sir knight, it ill becomes you a lady's dresB to tear. 
These are Burguudiau manners ! hut dear it shall be paid ; 
I'll bring you soon to smart for it," exdaim'd the stormy maid. 

690. 
Her arms around the warrior she scrupled not to fling, 
And forthwith thought to bind him as though it were the king. 
That of the bed sole mistreas in qniet she might sleep. 
For her injur'd night-dress took, she vengeance deep. 



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118 TXHTB ABTEMTItBE. 

691. 

What booted then his manhood well prov'd in many a fight. 
When that heroic maiden put forth her maeteriDg might P 
Him by miun force she hfbed in spite of all he tried, 
And 'gainst a press she jamm'd him that stood the bed bemde. 

692. 
" Ah 1" thought the panting champion, " should I now lose my 

life 
By this outrt^;eoufi damsel, hereafter every wife 
Will claim at home the mastery, and, soonung meek accord 
And womanly submission, will lord it o'er her lord." 

693. 
The king with fear and trembling heaiA all that there befell. 
Shame gave fresh strength to Siegfried ; furious he waz'd and fell. 
He with redoubled puissance once more the maid oppos'd. 
Fearful was the struggle as he with Brunhild dos'd. 

694. 
Down still she atrore to keep him, but wrath and natuittl might 
Combin'd so wrought within him, that soon in her despite 
His feet the knight recover'd ; sore was his toil, I trow ; 
In the darken'd chamber they hiurtled to ^id fro, 

696. 
HI too at ease was Ounther between the etmggling pair. 
Pull oft to shift he needed as stroye they here and there. 
A wonder 't was (ao fiercely wrestled the mighty foes) 
That either acap'd uninjured Irom that tempestuous close. 

696. 
Sore rued his tate the monarch beset with twofold care ; 
Still fear'd he most lest Siegfried should chance to perish there, 
Por now the puissant damsel had all but ta'en his fife. 
Had he but dar'd, he'd gladly have help'd him in the strife. 



HOW BBrMHILD WAS BECEITBD AT WOBMS. 119 

697. 

Long time endur'd the conteat, nor ever Beem'd to slack, 
Till 'gadnat the bed with faij he dash'd the maaden back. 
How fierce soe'er she atroggled, ikint and more faint ahe grew j 
Then man^ a ahiewd suspicion shot Chintber's bosom through. 

698. 
Still ever as he listen'd, he thought 't was wondrous long. 
Just then the hands of Siegfried she sqiiees'd so fierce and strong, 
That blood from the nails started ; the warrior tingled sore ; 
But soon he brought the damsel to give her frenzy o'er, 

699. 
And change ha- iurioua passions for love and duty meek. 
Whatever pass'd heard Qunther, thou^ daring not to spetA 
Against the bed he drove her, that loud she shriek'd for pain. 
Cruel was her torture from Siegfried's mastering main. 

700. 
Then grasp'd she at her girdle, and Btrove to bind ber foe, 
When down the wamor burl'd her with such a forceful throw. 
That crack'deocbbone and sinew; that clos'd at once the strife ; 
The Minting maid submitted to live king Chmther's wife. 

701. 
Said she, " right noble ruler, vouchsafe my life to spare ; 
Whatever I've offended, my duty shall repair. 
I'll meet thy noble passion ; my love vdth thine shall vie. 
That thou canst tame a woman, none better knows than I." 

702. 
Then up arose Sir Siegfried from where dame Brunhild lay ; 
Upon the floor he left her, and noiaelees went his way ; 
But first from her fine finger a golden ring he drew 
So gently, that the midden nothing felt or knew. 

, , ..MOyGOOgIC 



120 TE(fTH ADTENTTTBE. 

708. 

He took, besidea, her girdle, with which her lord she tied j 
I know not if he did bo from triumph and from pride ; 
To hie wife he gave it, a gift that mischief wrought. 
Meanwhile the maid and monuvh love both together brought. 

7Mi. 
They met with mntual paaaioD aa man and wife became ; 
Her stormy rage was soften' d ; she was no more the same ; 
"Weak she grew and feeble as in his arms she lay ; 
AH her former puissance flitted straight away. 

705. 
And now was she no stronger than any damo beside. 
Fearless, uufear'd, her husband caresa'd his duteous bride. 
Why act again the rebel P what boot could thus be won P 
So much with alter'd Brunhild king Ounther's love had done. 

706. 
How loYingly and fondly he by his lady lay 
Till the rosy morning led on the laughing day 1 
Sir Siegfried thence departed, and back in silence came. 
Where tenderly receiv'd him a fur and gentle dome. 

707. 
Her questions he evaded, though much to know she sought ; 
Long time too kept he from her the gifts that he had brought. 
Till, crown' d, in his own country ahe reign' d, his royal bride j 
Of all, he else could grant her, how little he denied ! 

708. 
Par merrier in the morning than he before had been 
Appear'd the good king Onnther j the change with joy was seen 
By every &ithiul vassal, and every foreign guest. 
Whom he had home invited aud feaated with the best. 



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HOW BBUNHItD WAS BEOEIYBS AT WOEHS. 1^1 

709. 

The Ecumptuous festal lasted e'en to the fourteenth day. 
The while was heard imceasmg the eoimd of mirth and play, 
That in the crowd of pleaaoree the wilder'd guests were lost. 
Unmatch'd was Oimther's splendour and boundless was his cost. 

710. 
By the good king's order, to many a warrior bold 
His kinsmen in his honour gave robes and ruddy gold. 
And steeds and store of silver, uid so their wants supplied. 
That not a straiger was there but parted satisfied. 

711. 
As well good king Siegfried, the knight of Netherland, 
And his thousand champions their robes, with liberal hand, 
And all they bad brought thither alike were pleas'd to give, 
Fairsteedsand costly trappings; like nobleathey knew how to live. 

712. 
To those, whose thoughts were homeward, the hours seem'd all 

too long, 
£re the rich gifts were laviah'd among the ^adsome throng. 
Never before was party dismiss'd in merrier plight. 
So the high feast concluded ; thence off rode many a knight. 



ELEVBITTH ADVENTTJEB. 

HOW SIXaFBIED BKOnSHT HIS WTFE HOUE. 
713. 

The festal hall was silent, and parted every guest, 
When thus the son of Siegmund his loving Mends address' d. 
" We too must make us ready, and forthwith home return." 
Glad was his noble conBort her brd's resolve to learn. 



122 XLKTESTH ADTIBTtTBE. 

714. 

She tbm beapake the wanior, " eince we are home to fare, 
Of oreivhaste in parting, I beg thee, well beware. 
First should of right my brethren with me the laoda divide." 
Sir Siegfried heard with sorrow theee words from hie fiiir bride. 

715. 
Then came to him the princes, and thus spake all the three, 
" Know that for you, king Siegfried, shall ever ready be 
Our true and lovii^ service, that e'en to death is vow'd." 
To them for their &ir promise the stately warrior bow'd. 

716. 
" "With you too we are aniious," said Giselher the young, 
" To part the lands and castles that to us all belong. 
Of all the broad possessions, o'er which the rule we bear, 
We'll yield to you and Eriemhild a good and ample share." 

717. 
Soon as the son of Si^mnnd their loving offer heard, 
To the noble princes this answer he preferr'd. 
" God grant you long enjoyment of your possessionB fair ; 
for me and my dear consort, our part we well can spare. 

718. 
The right that you aUow her my wife may well lay down ; 
Henceforth in my country she'll wear the queenly crown. 
And, should I live, be richer than any living wight. 
In all things else, your bidding 111 do with all my might." 

719. 
" In th' heritage," said Eriemhild, " though you renounce our 

ri^te. 
Not of so little value are our Burgundian knights ; 
Them might a king be happy to bring into his land. 
And I my portion in them claim at each brother's hand." 

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HOW SIEOFBIE]) BBOUOHT HIS WTTE HOUE- 123 

720. 

" Take whom thou wilt, &ir Biater," ^ Oeroot etraigfat replied, 
" No doubt you'll find abtmdance, who long with you to ride. 
From thirty hundred vaeeala, each one a chosen man, 
Take for thy train a thousand." Kriemhild to send began 

72X. 
Firet for Ortwine and Hagan, the noble knights and true. 
If they and their bold kinsmen would Kriemhild serve and sue. 
Thereat wax'd Hagan wrathfiil, and frowning thus 'gan say, 
" Nor right nor power has Ghmther to give ub thas away. 

722. 
For followers and companions seek elsewhere if you will. 
As for our Trony customs, sure you must know them still. 
At court we guard our princeB, nor &om this duty awerre. 
Thus here we serr'd them ever, thus will we ever serve." 

723. 
Thereto was made no answer ; all on their journey thought. 
Her noble train bother the lady Eiiemhild brought. 
Two and thirty maidens and five hundred men. 
£ckewart the mai^rave follow'd KriemhUd then. 

724. 
Leave last by all was taken, both by squire and knight 
And by dame imd damsel, as fitting was and right. 
With many a kiss they parted, and many a grasp of hand, 
And so not ill contented they left king Chuither*s land. 

726. 
Far rode their loving kinsmen to bring them on their way ; 
Eachnightthey found them quarterswhere'eritpleas'd them stay, 
While they upon their journey through Gunthei^B country went. 
Then mewmgen were forthwith to old king Siegmund sent. 



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124 

726. 
To Tiim and to dame Sieglind the hasty news to bear, 
That his Bon was comii^, and with him Kriemhild &ir, 
The daughter of dame Uta, &om TVonnB beyond the ffliine. 
Ne'er to such welcome tidinga did they their eara incline. 

727. 
" All ! well IB me," cried Siegmund, " that I this day have aeen. 
That here the lovely EriemhUd ahoidd move a i^owned queen ! 
Hy heritage high worBhi|) ahall hence and honour gain ; 
Here too my aon Siegfried himself a king shall reign." 

728. 
Then gave the lady Sieglind good store of velvet red ; 
Full weight of gold and silver shower'd she for newsman's bread. 
Much at the gladsome tidings rc^oic'd the royal dame. 
Her train themBelves apparel'd as nobles well became. 

729. 
'T was told her, who waa coming with him into the land. 
Then raJs'd in haste were sittings, as Sieglind gave command, 
"Whither crown'd should march Sir Siegfried in front of all hia 

Then forth to meet the strangers rodeSiegmund's knights amain. 

78. 
If e'er was heutier welcome than was receiv'd that day 
In good king Siegmund's country, is more than I can say. 
To meet the lovely Eriemhild the royal Sie^ind came 
With many a lovely lady and many a knight of fame 

731. 
A whole day's journey's distance, till came the guests in view. 
Then no small toU and trouble both Mends and strangers knew 
To reach a spacious fortress (Xanten the name it bore). 
Where royal crowns thereafter the bride and brid^room wore. 



HOW aiEOPBIBD BBOUfiHT HIS WIFE HOHE. 125 

782. 
Sieglind and Siegmund welcom'd fair Eriemliild loviagl^ ; 
With laughing mouth fiiD often they kies'd her tenderly. 
And did as much to Siegfried ; &t flown was all their care. 
All the train of followers were warmly greeted there. 

738. 
Strught were brought the strangers to Siegmund's royal haU. 
Down there the lovely maidens from horse were hfbed all 
By knights and squires officious, and maiiy a high-bom man 
To wait on beauteous ladies with courtly zeal began. 

784. 
How great soe'er the splendour of O-unther's muriage day, 
Yet here were &irer garments profusely given away 
Than ever yet at festab had deck'd the wwriors bold ; 
Of their Burpasaing richness marvels might be told. 

735. 
As sat they in high honour with all delights in store, 
What bright gold-colour'd raiment their joyful followers wore, 
Laces, and stones fiiU precious lair work'd in vesture sheen ! 
Well were the gu^ts entreated by the rich and noble c|ueen. 

736. 
Then spake the good Sfr Siegmund before his friends in hall, 
" This my resolve declare I to Siegfried's kinsmen all, 
That he before these warriors my roy^ crown shall wear." 
The news gave full contentment to the Netherlandera there. 

737. 
His crown and power he gave him and seisin of his land ; 
Their master then became he ; zealous was every hand 
To execute his judgments ; his mouth pronounc'd the law. 
To th' husband of fair Ehemhild all bok'd with fear and awe. 



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126 ELXTENTH ASTENTUKE. 

738. 

So liv*!! he in high honour, a rightful monarch crown'd, 
And giving righteous judgment tUl the tenth year came round. 
When the fiur queen his consort bore him at last ao heir. 
Glad were thereat his kiosmen, glad too the n^al pair. 

739. 
Forthwith the babe was christen' d, and given him was a name 
After his uncle Ghinther ; it could not bring him shame. 
If he his kin resembled, in worth he would excell ; 
His parents, as became them, train'd up the infiint weU. 

740. 
About the self-same season the lady Sieglind died ; 
The chUd of noble TJta her vacant place supplied, 
And to the power succeeded that Sieglind held before. 
The people deeply soirow'd that Sieglind was no more. 

74L 
Next messengerB came posting the joyfiil news to bring. 
How bj the Ehine to Ounther, the stout Bm^undian king, 
A son was borne by Brunhild the once relentless dame j 
He for the love of Sieg&ied receiv'd the hero's name. 

742. 
With every care they train'd him ; Ounther his bther dear 
Bad tutors the young iniant in every virtue rear, 
That, nurtur'd so to nuinbood, all worship he might win. 
Ah ! by mish^ thereafter how lost he all his kin ! 

748. 
Thenceforward at all seasons full many a tale was told. 
How nobly and bow knightly the warriors fierce and bold 
Liv'd in the land of Siegmund ; fame voiced their praises loud. 
Like them lived good king Ounther and bis noble kinsmen proud. 



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HOW SIEOE&IKD BBOUSHT HIS WIPE HOME. 127 

744. 

Their land the Mbelimgera of Sieg^ed held io fee ; 

None e'er of all his kindred bo wealthy was as he. 

His were the knights of Schilbiing and both the brethren's store. 

Through this the bold Sir SiegMed himself the loftier bore. 

745. 
The richoHt of all treasures, that e'er was gain'd by knight, 
Save by its former masters, he held by conqueror's right. 
The same before a mountaia by dint of sword he won. 
To win it, many a champion his hand to death had done. 

746. 
Huge was his wealth andworship; yet, had he nought possess' d. 
Whoever look'd upon him could not but have confess' d. 
He was the prowest champion that e'er in saddle sat. 
All trembled at his manhood ; good cause had they for that. 



TWELFTH ADVENTTJEE. 

HOW QTJNTHBB nrTITBD BmaFBIES TO THE TBSTITAJL. 

747. 
Still GKmther's consort ever thought with deep-musing care. 
Why should the lady Eriemhild herself so proudly boar p 
And yet her husband Sieg&Ied — what but our man is he F 
And late bat httle service has yielded for his fee. 

748. 
In her heart this thought she foster'd deep in its inmost core ; 
That still they kept such distance, a secret grudge she bore. 
How came it, that their vassal to court declin'd to go, 
Nor for bis land did homage, she inly yeam'd to know. 



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128 TWELFTH ASVENTrSS. 

749. 
She made requeat of Gunther, aiid begg'd it bo might be, 
That she the absent EriemhUd yet once again might see, 
And told him too, in secret, whereon her thoughts were bent. 
With the words she utter'd her lord was scarce content. 

750. 
" How could we bring them hither," the king in turn began, 
" Such a length of journey P 't were past the power of man. 
I could not ask it of them, they dwell from us so wide." 
Thereto in haughty fashion the frowning queen replied, 

751. 
" How rich eoe'er a vasBal, how broad aoe'er his lands. 
Obedience is his duty, whate'er his lord commands." 
Sure could but smile Sir G-unther when thus he heard her fi^t. 
'I was not for suit and service that he and Siegfried met. 

752. 
Said she, " dear lord, for my sake thy efbrto join with mine. 
That Siegfried and thy sister once more may seek the Khine, 
That we again may see them, and all in love unite. 
Nothing, I wet] assure thee, could give me more delight. 

753. 
What soft emotion soothes me, whene'er I call to mind 
Thy sister's noble graces, her accents soft and kind. 
And how, when both were married, we both sat side by aide ! 
No doubt may she with honour be Siegfried's loving bride." 

7S4. 
She press'd so long, that Gunther replied with alter'd cheer, 
" Now know that guests so welcome never saw I here. 
Much pressing little needed ; so messengers of mine 
I'll send to bid them hasten hither to the Shine." 



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HOW amn'HEB ibtited sieofkied to the festitaj;. 129 

765, 
Thereto the queen made answer, " tell me now, I pray, 
Wben you will send to ask them, and about what day 
We may expect the traTellerB to both of ub bo dear ; 
AnA who win bear your message, I willingly would hear." 

756. 
" So will I do," replied he ; " thirty of my men 
Shall be commisBion'd thither." Forthwith he summon'd then 
Those by whom his message to Siegfried's land he sent. 
Brunhild sumptuous resture gave them to their full content. 

757. 
Then spake the king, " ye warriors, from me this message bear 
(That you keep back nothing I bid you well beware). 
Which I to valiant Siegfried and to my sister send. 
That in this wodd can no man to both be more a friend ; 

758. 
And beg them hasten hither ua on the Bbine to see ; 
It shall be well requited both by my wife and me. 
By the next midsummer he and his men shall find 
From every one among ua high honour, welcome kind. 

759. 
Unto the good king Siegmund my service too commend ; 
Say, I and mine shall ever hold him as our friend. 
Bid too my sister hasten to meet her kinsmen dear. 
Ne'er graced she royal festal like that which waits her here." 

760. 
Brunhild and Uta and every lady there 
Into the land of Siegfried their greeting bad them bear 
To many a noble warrior and many a lady gay. 
So with the king's conuniBsion the couriers went their way. 



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180 TWELFTU ADTEKTUEE, 

761. 

To start they now were ready ; to each of all the band 
Waa brought both steed and vesture; so rode they troia the land. 
With happy haste they joumey'd, and erer prick'd they hard ; 
The king had sent an escort his messengers to guard. 

762. 
In the weary journey three toilsome weeks they spent. 
At last in Niblung's caatle, whither they had been sent, 
■E'en in the march of Norway, they found Mug Siegmund's son. 
Horses alike and riders were travel-tainted and fordone. 

763. 
To Siegfried and to Kriemhild forthwith the tidings came. 
That knights had jonmey'd thither, whose vesture was the same 
Aa what by men of worship waa worn in Burgundy. 
Prom her day-bed Kriemhild up sprung hastUy. 

764. 
Sudden to a window she bad a damsel go, 
Who saw bold Qtary standing in the court below. 
Him, and his valiant comrades on the same errand bound. 
For her long-brooded sorrow what rapture then she found ! 

766. 
Loud call'd she to her husband, " See you, where they stand 
Down in the court there waiting, stout Gary and his band, 
Whom my good brother Guntber has sent us down the Bhine P" 
" Welcome are they," said 8i^;fried, "welcome to me widmine," 

766. 
Where tbey saw them standing, all the household ran ; 
They kindly them saluted, as man encounter'd manj 
And, as they best could please them, spoke many a friendly word. 
With no small joy king Siegmund of their arrival heard. 



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HOW GUNTHEE INVITED SIEOFBIED TO THE FESTIVAL, 131 



767. 

Straight were allotted quarters to Gary and his men, 
And charge ta'en of their couraera ; the mesaengera went then 
To where aat bold Sir SiegMed by gentle Ejiemhild'a aide ; 
They were to court invited, and ao they thither hied. 

768.- 
Fproee, as in they enter'd, the hoat and his feir dame. 
Full well receiv'd was Gary, aod all who with him came 
His followera, Gunther'a liegemen from diatant Burgundy. 
To a Beat the warrior was motion'd courteously. 

769. 
" Nay, deign," eaid he, " our measage to hear before we ait. 
And ua, way-wearied wanderera, the whfle to atand permit. 
We have to teU you tidinga to ua committed late 
By Gunther and by Brunhild, who are both in best estate ; 

770. 
And from the lady Uta we come, your mother dear. 
And from the good Sir Gemot and youthful Giaelher, 
And from your choicest kinsmen, who all with kind intent 
By ua to you their service froin Burgundy have aent." 

771. 
"Now God them quit!" said Siegfried, " that they're aincere 

and true 
I trust with fiill aasuraoce, as men with friends should do. 
The same too feels their sister. Now further to iiB tell. 
Whether our friends in Bhineland are hearty all and well. 

772. 
Since we from them departed, haa any neighbouring foe 
Harried my consort's kindred P thia let me surely know. 
To them by me shall ever such friendly. ud be lent, 
That their wrong the doera ahaU bitterly repent." 
K 2 

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ADTENTUEE. 
773. 

Thereto the margrave Gary, the good knight, made reply, 
"Fraught with allmanly virtues they bear them proud and high. 
They bid you to a festal, which they at home prepare. 
You need not doubt, your kinemeQ wouH gladly see you there. 

774. 
They also beg my lady thither with you to wend. 
Soon as the bluatering winter shall come at length to end. 
Ton both ere nest midsummer they sH expect to see." 
Then said the volant SiegMed, " that can hardly be." 

775. 
But straight the bold Burgundian Gary gave this reply. 
" Surely your mother TJta you never can deny, 
Nor Giselher, nor Gemot, who all would meet you &in. 
That you dwell so far distant, I hear them daily plain. 

. 776. 
Brunhild, my noble lady, and all ber maidena fair 
Are glad to think that forthwith you thither will repair. 
That they once more may see you, fills every heart with glee." 
His words to lovely Kriemhild seem'd full good to be. 

777. 
Gary was her kinsman ; him begg'd the host to sit. 
And straight bad fill the goblets to pledge them, as was fit ; 
Then too, to meet the envoys, kin g Siegmund join'd the rest, 
And to the bold Burgundians these friendly words address' d. 

778. 
" Welcome, ye men of Gunther ! since Siegfried, my good son, 
Tour noble lady Kriemhild for hia wiie has won, 
Tou at our court more frequent we should have gladly seen. 
Tour presence of our friendship the surest bond had been." 



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HOT OUNTHBB INTITED SIEOFBIED TO THE FESTIVAL. 133 
779. 

They said, whene'er he wish'd it, they willingly would come. 
Their toil and teen through gladness forgot they all and some. 
Sieg&ied had all be seated, and viands of the best, 
And in fiill abunduice, be brought to every guest. 

780. 
Nine days in mirth and feasting the envoys needs must stay. 
At length the active warriors could brook no more delay. 
Agdn would they ride homeward; on that their minds were bent 
la th' interval king Siegfried for his Mends had sent. 

781. 
Ke ask'd them what they counael'd; he needs must to the Rhine; 
" I bidden am by O-unther that dear friend of mine. 
At a high feast my presence he and hia kinsmen pray. 
Fain would I ride thither, were't not ao far away. 

782. 
They beg moreover, Kriemhild the journey too may share. 
Now, my good friends, advise me ; what's best to do, declare. 
Should they for them request me to hany thirty lands, 
"Well they such warlike service might claim at Siegfried's hands." 

783. 
Thereto bis knights thus answer'd, " as you desire to speed, 
If you this feast will visit, hearken to our rede. 
Take of your best warriors a thousand by your side. 
So 'midst the bold Burgundiana in honour you'll abide." 

784. 
Then spake the lord of Netherland, Siegmund the frank and free, 
" If you're for this hi^h festal, why say not so to me ? 
I, if it not displease you, will with you to the Ehine, 
And bring, to swell your squadron, a hundred knights of mine." 



131 TWELFTH ADVENTURE. 

785. 

" "Will you too journey with us, my father ever dear ?" 
Exchdm'd the bold Sir SiegMed ; " it glads me tluB to hear. 
Within twelve days at furthest we'll wend upon our way." 
To all, who ask'd, then gave he good steeds and garments gay. 

786. 
When now to t^e the journey fix'd was the king's design, 
He had the knights of Gunther ride back unto the Shine, 
And sent by them a message to Kriemhild's kinsmen there, 
That to the feast, they purpos'd, full fain would he repair. 

787. 
Sieg&ied and Kriemhild (so says the tale) hestow'd 
More gifts upon the envoys, than o'er such length of road 
Their horses home could carry ; a wealthy man was he. 
They drove their strong-back'd sumpters merrily o'er the lea. 

788. 
Siegfried and eke Siegmund their people cloth'd anew ; 
Eckewart the margrave all Siegfried's country through 
Bad seek out women's raiment, whate'er was stor'd in chest 
Or could be bought for money, the choicest and the best. 

789. 
Hich saddles were made ready, and shields of glittering pride. 
To the knights and ladies, that should with Siegfried ride, 
Whate'er they wish'd was granted ; none wanted there for ought. 
To his friends in Bbineland many a lordly guest he brought. 

790. 
Meanwhile homeward speeding prick'd the envoys fast. 
Back came the noble Gary to Burgundy at last. 
He met with hearty welcome ; straight they dismounted all 
Prom war-horse and from palfrey before king Gunther'a hall. 



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HOW aiTNTHEB IKTITBD SIEGFRIED TO THE FSSTIVAL. 135 
701. 

Old and young (as the uae is) ran up irom eveiy side, 
Andflak'dwhatnewBtheybroughtthem? the nobleknight replied, 
"When I the king haye told it, 'twill spread to all uround." 
Then went he with bla comradeBto where the king he found. 

792. 
From sheer pleasure Gunther started irom bis seat 
At the happy tidings ; that they bad. come so fleet, 
Much tbauka bad they from Brunhild. Gunther straight begun, 
" How fares it with Siegfried, who so much for me has done P " 

793. 
" To bear of you," said Gary, " he redden'd with delight, 
Both he, and eke your sister ; never bring wight 
Sent his friends a message so tender and so true, 
Aa by me Sir Siegfried and his father have to you." 

794. 
Then to the valiant margrave the noble queen 'gan say, 
" Tell me, is Kriemhild coming ? do6a still her form display 
The beauty and soft graces, she well to foster knew P" 
The good knight, Gary, answer' d, " she's surely coming too." 

795. 
Then before dame Uta the messengers were brought ; 
Well without her asking could Gary guess her thought, 
So, ere she put the question, " How did Kriemhild fare F" 
He s^d, how be had found her, and that she'd soon be there. 

796. 
Of all the gorgeous presents nothing was left untold, 
Given them by good Sir Siegfried ; the raiment and the gold. 
That the three brethren's lieges might view them, forth were laid. 
With thanks the gracious giver was by them tdl repaid. 



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186 TWELFTH ABVEKTtlEE. 

797. 

" Ay ! of hie own," said Hagao, " full lightly he may give ; 
'Tia past hia power to Bpend it, should he for ever live. 
The Nibeltmgera' treaaure holds he by etrength of hand. 
Ah ! would it were brought hither to our Bui^undian land !" 

798. 
The court, both knights and ladies, were all with joy elate 
To hear that they were coming. Early forthwith and late 
The friends of the three brethren were busied every man ; 
Seats with sumptuous trappings to ruse they straight began. 

799. 
Hunolt and eke Siiidolt, the hardy knights and true. 
Had not a moment's leisure ; full work had they to do 
The vrhile, as sewer and butler, and many a bench to raise. 
Ortwineforth'aidhe gave them had O-unther's thanks and praise. 

800. 
Sore toil'd the chief cook, Bumolt ; ah ! how his orders ran 
Among his underatrappers ! how many a pot and pan, 
How many a mighty cauldron rattled and rang again ! 
They drese'd a worid of dishes for all th' expected train. 

801. 
N^or less was then the labour to the fiiir ladies known, 
As they prepar'd their garments ; many a precious stone 
They act in gold far-beaming, uid gUtter'd both so bright. 
And with such grace they wore them, as ravisb'd evciy sight. 



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THIRTEENTH ADVENTTJEE. 

HOW THBT WBtTT TO THE TE8TiyA.L. 
802. 

Kow we awhile must leave them on household toils intent, 
And tell how lady KriemhUd and her mudens went 
From the Nibelungers' country to the Ehine'e fair shore. 
Such plenty of rich vesture never Bumpters bore. 

803. 
Sispatch'd were travelling cases well fraught with precious load ; 
Then with his queen and comrades Sir Siegfried forward rode. 
Her heart with pleasure's promise was ready to o'erdow ; 
AJl was chang'd thereafter to wail and mortal woe. 

804. 
At home, aiuce ao it needed, they left their inlant heir. 
The son that valiant Siegfried begot on Eriemhild fair. 
To the poor boy misfortime that fatal journey bore ; 
HJB father and hia mother saw he never mora. 

805. 
And with them good Sir Siegmund prick'd forth in meny mood. 
Had he but once foreboded the woes that thence ensued. 
At that disastroua festal he ne'er had sat a guest, 
Ne'er had ho seen the ruin of those he loved the best. 

806. 
Dispatch'd before were couriers to say they were at hand ; 
Str^ght rode out to meet them a royal-vested band, 
Many a friend of TIta's, of Gunther's many a knight. 
The host himself was stirring to welcome them aright. 



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188 THIBTEENTH ADTENTUBE. 

807. 

Forthwith he sought out Brunhild, where sat the stately dame. 
" How did my aieter greet you when first you hither came ? 
So greet the wife of Siegfried, take care to foil in nought." 
" So wiU I," said she, " gladly ; I Ioto her as I ought." 

808. 
" To-morrow they'll he with ub," said he, " by early day, 
So, if you mean to greet them, be atirring while you may. 
We mnat not, sure, he lurkiag within the castle here. 
Never had I the fortune to welcome guests so dear." 

809. 
She bad her dames and damsels look out their choicest vests. 
The Bwne they wore at fest^ before high-honour' d guests, 
Such were to be expected with to-morrow's sun. 
I need not aay her bidding ri^t willingly was done. 

810. 
Then too, to do their service the meh of Gimther sped. 
With him all his warriors the host in squadron led. 
Next the queen came pacing full royally array* d. 
To guests belov'd so dearly was goodliest welcome made. 

811. 
With what joy and gladness welcom'd were they there ! 
It seem'd, when came damo Brunhild to Burgundy whilere. 
Her welcome by dame Kriemhild leas tender was and true j 
The heart of each beholder beat higher at the view. 

812. 
Now too was come Sir Siegfried with all his men around. 
Tou might see the warriors careering o'er the ground 
Now hither and now thither with fire-sparkling hoof. 
From the dust and tumult none could keep ^oof. 



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HOW THBT WENT TO THE FESTITAL. 139 

818. 

When SiegMed and eke Siegmund met king Qimther's eyee. 
The host both boil and father bespoke in loving wise. 
" To me you are right welcome, to all mj frieudfl as dear. 
It is our pride and pleaeure aa guests to have you here." 

814. 
" Now QoA you quit !'" and Siegmund, the grave and reverend 

man; 
" Ever since my Sieg&ied yon for his comrade wan, 
My wish has it been always to see you and to know." 
" Bight glad am I," said Qunther, " it now has happen'd so." 

815. 
Beceiv'd was bold Sir Sieg&ied, aa fitted well his state, 
With the highest honours ; no man bore him hate. 
Toimg Giselher and Gemot proffer'd all courtly care ; 
Never met friend or kinsman reception half so fair. 

816. 
Kow either king's fair consort nigh to the other came ; 
Emptied were store of saddles ; many a smiling dame 
To the grass by stalwart champions down was lifted light. 
In the ladies' service how busy was many a knight ! 

817. 
And now the lovely ladies each to the other went. 
Thereat was many a chieftain full well at heart content, 
When both a welcome oSer'd so friendly and so taii. 
Meanwhile the warriors ceas'd not to tend the ladies there. 

818. 
Chieftain now to chieftain held out the cordial hand ; 
Low bows were made in plenty by either courtly band. 
Amongst the high-bom ladies pass'd many a loving kiss. 
Both (Junther's men and Siegfried's were fain to look on this. 



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AUTENTTJBE. 

819. 
They linger'd there no longer, but towards the city rode. 
To his gueata king Gunther by every action Bhow'd 
How welcome was their presence to ail in Bui^^dy. 
Tonng knights before young maidens ran tilting joyously, 

820. 
The power of mighty Hagau and eke of bold Ortwine 
Well there might each beholder from what he saw divine, 
"Wtate'er they pleas'd to order, from all obedience won ; 
To the lov'd guesta by either was courtly service done. 
821. 
" The ahields thsj clang'd and clatter'd before the castle gate 
With fencing and with foining ; long time had there to w^t 
His gueata and good king Gimther ere they could enter in. 
They pass'd the time right joyous amidst the press and din. 

822. 
So to the apadouB palace on rode they merrily. 
Tou might see rich foolxloths, well cut and artfully, 
Down hang from o'er the saddle of many a high-bom dame. 
Forward to receive them king Gunther'a servants came. 

823. 
Then to their several chambers the guests were led aside. 
From time to time queen Brunhild with searching Ranees eyed 
The love-enkindling Kriemhild ; lovely she was indeed ; 
Her hue the gold outsparkled that glitter'd in her weed. 

824. 
At Worms through all the city rang the mirthsome shout 
Of the rejoicing followera ; Ghmther the noisy rout 
Commended to his marahal, and bad him treat them fair ; 
Dimkwaii; sought out good quarters and fitly lodg'd them there. 



-..MOyCOO'^IC 



HOW THBT WSHT TO THE FESTIVAL, 



Without, within, was feasting ; unbounded was the store. 
Sure stranger guesta were never treated ho well before. 
It only needed asking, and tiSl was straight supplied ; 
So rich a Ving waa Oimther that nothing was denied. 

826. 
With friendly zeal they serv'd them, with hearts devoid of hate ; 
Amidst his guests at table the host exulting sate. 
To sit was bidden Siegfried where he of yore had done. 
With him strode to the banquet proud warriors many a one. 

827. 
Twelve hundred stalwart champions in circle there were seen 
With him at table sitting ; Brunhild, the watchful queen. 
Thought to herself, no vassal could ever wealthier be. 
Still him she so far tavour'd, that from harm she left him free. 

828. 
All that feastful evenii^, as sat the hing to dine. 
Store of the richest vesture waa wetted by the wine, 
That in hastj hurry the butlers ever pour'd. 
Sore toD'd they in their service at that o'ercrowded board. 

82d. 
Then, as is still the custom at each weU-order'd feast. 
To rest the d^nea and damsels were in good time releas'd. 
All guests with gifts and honours, from whencesoe'er they came. 
The noble host entreated as well beseem'd his fame. 

830. 
When now the night was over, and reappear'd the dawn. 
By the fair hands of ladies waa many a jewel drawn. 
Sparkling in goodly raiment, from many a travelling chest, 
And out was sought and hurried many a lordly vest. 



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14S TKIHTEENTU AUTENXDBB. 

831. 
Ere 't was full day, csiob flocking the palace ball around 
EnightB and Bquires in plenty ; then aroBe the sound 
Of matins Bung to Gunther, and, when this was done, 
So well rode youthiiil warriors, that the king's thanks they won. 

832. 
Shrill fifes and loud-Toic'd clarions and blaring trumpet-clang 
Mii'd with the shouts of thousanda, that all the citj rang, 
And through the startled welkin th' alarum spread around. 
Proud knights on strong-hoof d chargers rode tbund'ring o'er 
the ground. 

833. 
At once without the city a tourney tbey began. 
There his career exulting many a young warrior ran, 
Whom his fresh boiling courage impell'd to honour's field. 
Many a knight of prowess was there seen under shield. 

834. 
Many a stately matron and many a smiling m^d 
Sat at the castle windows in costly robes array* d. 
And look'd on while the warriors display'd their skill and force ; 
The good host with his comrades himself would run a oouise. 

835. 
The time seem'd not to linger, so merrily it pasa'd. 
Pealing from the minster tbey beard the bells at last. 
Then up were led the palfreys ; forth rode each lady bright ; 
The noble queens were foUow'd by many a valiant knight. 

836. 
Down before the minster they lighted on the green. 
Still to her guests was gracious king Gunther's haughty queen. 
Both crown'd, into the minster they atepp'd with royal state. 
Too soon their love was sunder* d, and aU through jealous hate ! 



1 FE8TITA1. 



Soon as the masB was over, with regal pomp and pride 
Thence came they to the palace, and straight exulting hied 
To the joyouB banquet, and neither stop nor stay 
Waa put to the high festaJ until th' eleventh day, 

838. 
Then thought queen Brunhild, " ailent no longer Til remain. 
Ho^e'er to pass I bring it, Kriemhild shall esplain, 
"Wherefore so long her husband, who holds of ub in fee. 
Has left undone his service ; this sure shall answer'd be." 

889. 
So still she brooded mischief, and conn'd her devil's lore. 
Till she broke off in sorrow the feast so blithe before. 
Ever at her heart lay cloaely what came perforce to light. 
Many a land she ataitled with hoiror and affright. 



FOUETEENTH ADVENTTJEE. 

HOW THE TWO QPEENB BXTILSS ONE AlTOTHBa, 
840. 

Okb day at th' hour of vespers a loud alarum rose 

From certain lusty champions that for their pastime choae 

To prove themselves at tilting in the castle court ; 

Then many a knight and lady ran thither to see the Bport. 

841. 
There were the proud queens sitting together, as befel, 
Each on a good knight thinking that either loVd fuU well. 
Then thus began feir Kriemhild, " Myhusbwid's of such might, 
That surely o'er these kingdoms he ought to rule by right." 



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144 FOUUTEENTH ADTENTUBE. 

842. 

Then answer'd lady BnmhUd, " nay, tow can that be shown ? 
Were there none other liring but thou and he alone, 
Then might, no doubt, the kingdoms be rul'd by him and thee. 
But, long as G-uuther's liring, that suie can never be. 

843. 
Thereto rejoin 'd fair Kriemhild, "aee'st thou how proud he atands, 
How proud he stalks, conspicuous among those 'warrior bands, 
As doth the moon far-beaming the glimmering stars outabine ? 
Sure have I cause to pride me when euch a knight ia mine." 

844. 
Thereto repLed queen Brunhild, " how brave soe'er he be, 
How stout soe'er or stately, one greater is than he. 
Ountber, thy noble brother, a higher place may claim, 
Of knights and kings the foremost in merit and in hme." 

845. 
Thereto rejoin'd fair Eriemhild, " so worthy is my mate. 
All praise that I can give him can ne'er be term'd too great. 
In all he does how matchless ! in honour too how clear ! 
Believ'st thou this, queen Brunhild? at least he's Gunther's 

846. 
" Thou ahould'st not so perversely, Kriemhild, my meaning take. 
What I said, assure thee, vrith ample cause I spake. 
I heard them both allow it, then when both first I saw. 
And the stout king in battle compell'd me to his law, 

847. 
E'eu then, when my affection he so knightly wan, 
'T was iairly own'd by Siegfried that he waa Gunther'a man. 
Myself I heard him own it, and such I hold him atill." 
" Forsooth," replied fair Eriemhild, " they miist have used me ill. 



HOW THE TWO QDEEHS BXYIIXD ONE ASOTHEB. 145 

848. 
Sow conld mj noble brethren their power have so applied, 
As to make me, their sister, a lowly vasBal'a bride P 
For maoiiera' sake tbeii, Brunhild, this idle talk give o'er. 
And, hj our common fiiendsbip, let me hear no more." 

349. 
" Give o'er will I never," the qneen replied again ; 
" Shall I renounce the serrice of all the knightly train 
That hold of him, our vasBal, and are our vassala too ?" 
Into sudden anger at this iair Kriemhild flew. 

850. 
" Ay ! but thou must renounce it, for never will he grace 
Thee with hia vassal service ; he fill" a higher place 
Than e'en my brother Gimther, noble though be hia strain. 
Henceforth tbou should'st be wiser, nor bold such talk again. 

851. 
I wonder too, since SiegMed thy vassal is by right. 
Since both of us thou ruleat with so much power and might, 
Why to thee hia service bo long he has denied. 
Nay ! I can brook no longer thy insolence and pride." 

852. 
" Thyself too high thou bearest," Brunhild answer made ; 
" Pmd would I see this instant whether to thee be paid 
Public respect and honour such as waits on me." 
Then both the dames with anger lowering you might see, 

853. 
"So shall it be," said Kriemhild, " to meet thee I'm pr^ur'd. 
Since thou my noble husband a vaasal haat declar'd, 
By the men of both our consorts to-day it shall be seen, 
That I the church dare enter before king Gimther's qneen. 



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MB FOUBTXEKTH ASTllTTttBE. 

854. 
To-day by proof thou'lt witness, what b% birth is mine, 
And that my noble husband worthier is than thine ; 
Nor for this with preaumption shall I be tax'd, I trow ; 
To-day thou It see moreover thy lowly vassal go 

855. 
To court before the warriors here in Burgundy. 
Assure thee, thou 'It behold me honour'd more royally 
Than the proudest princess that ever bere wore crown." 
The dames their spite attested with many a scowl and frown. 

853. 
" Since thou wilt be no vassal," Brunhild rejoin'd again, 
" Then thou with thy women must apart remain 
IVom my damea and damsels, as to the church we go." 
Thereto Kriemhild answer' d, " trust me it shall be so. 

857. 
Array ye now, my mudens," said Siegfiied's haughty dame, 
" Tou must not let your mistress here be put to shame. 
That you have gorgeous raiment make plain to every eye. 
"What she has just asserted, she soon shall &in deny." 

858. 
They needed not much bidding ; all sought out their best ; 
Matrons ^ike and maidens each donn'd a glittering vest. 
Queen Brunhild with her meiny was now upon her way. 
By this was deck'd iair Kriemhild in royal rich array, 

859. 
With three and forty maidens, whom she to Bhine had brought ; 
Bright stufis were their ^parel in far Arabia wrought. 
So towards the minster march'd the maidens fair ; 
All the men of SiegMed were waiting for them there. 



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HOW THE TWO (JUBElfa ESTIIiED OHE AJTOTHEE. 147 

860. 
Strange thougbt it each beholder, what there by all was Been, 
How with their traiuB iar-simder'd paaa'd either noble queen, 
Not walking both together as was their wont before. 
Full many a pioweBt wBrrior thereafter rued it sore. 

861. 
Now before the minster the wife of G-unther stood j 
Meanwhile by way of paatime many a warrior good 
Held light and pleasant converse with many a smiling dame ; 
When up the lovely KriemMld with her radiant meiny came. 

862. 
All that the noblest maiden had ever donu'd before 
Was aa wind to the spleudour her i\ii.i.iMng ladies wore. 
So rich her own apparel in gold and precious things. 
She alone might out-glitter the wives of thirty kings. 

863. 
Howe'er he might be willing, yet none could dare deny 
That such resplendent vesture never met mortal eye 
Ab on that &ir retinue then sparkled to the sun. 
Sxcept to anger Brunhild, Eriemhild had not so done. 

864. 
Both met before the minster in all the people's sight ; 
There at ouce the hostess let out her deadly spite. 
Bitterly and proudly she bad fiiir Kriemhild stand ; 
" No vassallesB precedeth the lady of the land." 

865. 
Out then spake &ir Kriemhild (full of wrath was she), 
" Could' st thou Btill be eOent, better 't were for thee. 
Thou'st made thy beauteous body a dishonour'd thing. 
How can a vassal's leman be consort of a king ?" 
L 2 

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rOBBTEENTH ADTENTTTSE. 



" Wiom here call'st thou leman ?" said the queea ^lain ; 
" So call I thee," Haid Kriemhild; "thy maidenly diadain 
Yielded first to Siegfried, my hnabaiid, Siegmund's son ; 
Ay ! 't was not my brother that first thy favoiire won. 

867. 
Why, where were then thy senses ? sure 't was a craity train, 
To take a lowly lover, to ease a vaesal's pain ! 
Complaints fi^tm thee," said Kriemhild, " methinhs are much 

anuBa." 
" Verily," said Brunhild, " Qunther shall hear of this." 

868. 
" And why should that disturb me P thy pride hath thee hetray'd. 
"Why didst thou me, thy equal, with vaaaalship upbraid ? 
Ejiow this for sure and certain (to speak it gives me pain) 
Never can I meet thee in cordial love again." 

869. 
Then bitterly wept Brunhild ; EjiemhOd no longer stayed ; 
Straight with all her followers before the queen she made 
Her way into the nunster ; then deadly hate 'gan rise ; 
And starting tears o'erclouded the shine of bright^t eyes. 

870. 
For all the solemn service, for all the chanted song, 
Still it seemed to Brunhild they linger'd all too long. 
Both on her mind and body a. load like lead there lay. 
Many a high-bom hero for her sorrow was to pay. 

871. 
Brunhild stopp'd with her ladies without the nunster door. 
Thought she, " this wordy woman shali tell me something more 
Of her charge against me spread so loud uid rife. 
If he has but so boasted, let him look to his life !" 



..MOyCOO'^IC 



HOW THE TWO QITESHa BETILED OKI AITOTHEB. 14rd 

872. 

Now came the noble KriemMd begirt with many a knight ; 

Then spake the noble BruHhild, " stop and do me right. 

Tou've voic'd me for a wanton ; prove it ere you go. 

You and your foul speeches have wrought me pain and woe." 
873. 

Then spake the lady Kriemhild, " 't were wiser to forbear j 

E'en with the gold I'U prove it that on my hand I wear ; 

'T was this that Siegfried brought me from where by you he lay." 

Never liv'd queen Brunhild so sorrowfid a day. 
874. 

Said she, " that ring was stolen from me who held it dear. 

And mischievously hidden has since been many a year. 

But now I've met with something by which the thief to guess." 

Botii the draiea were frenzied with passion masterless. 

875. 
" Thief p" made answer Kriemhild, " I will not brook the name. 
Thou would'st have kept sUence, hadst thou a sense of shame. 
By the girdle here about me prove fiill well I can 
That I am ne'er a hat ; Siegfried was indeed thy man." 

876. 
'T was of silk of Nineveh the girdle that she brought, 
"Withprecious stones wellganiiah'd; abetter ne'er was wrought; 
When Brunhild but beheld it, her tears she could not hold. 
The tale must needs to Gunther and all Ms men be told. 

877. 
Then outspake queen Brunhild ; " go some one straight and call 
Hither the prince of Khinelaud j sure will I tell him all, 
What infamy his sister has forc'd me to endure. 
And how his wife she voices for Siegfried's paiwnonr." 



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ISO rOUBTBXNTH ABTENirSE. 

878. 
The kiDg with bia chieftains up came haatHj ; 
There saw he his beloved weeping bitterly. 
" Dearest heart !" Boft said he, " who has serr'd you so P" 
With many a sob she answer'd, " deep eause hare I for woe. 

879. 
Of my good name and honour than liie more dear would &in 
Thy cruel sister rob me ; to thee I needs must plain. 
She says, her husband Siegfried my virgiii fevours won." 
Thereto replied king Gnnther, " then she foul wrong has done." 

880. 
" Besides, my long-lost girdle she weareth ss in scorn, 
My gold adorns her finger ; — ^would I had ne'er been bom ! 
Is not all this an outrage to eting and woimd me sore P 
King ! if thou dost not dear me, I'll nerer love thee more." 

881. 
Thereto retum'd king Gunther, " I will do no leas ; 
If Sieg&ied so has boasted, he shall the same confoBa, 
Or &ankly disavow it." Then tnm'd he to his band, 
And bad them summon forthwith the chief of Netherland. 

882. 
THo sooner had 8b Sieg&ied seen them so ill apay'd 
(He knew not what had happen' d), suddenly he said, 
" Why are these women weeping? the cause, I pray you, show, 
And why I'm hither summon'd, I should be glad to know." 

883. 
Thereto replied king CKinther, " with uiguish I'm oppress' d. 
My wife has told me something that's poison in my breast. 
She says, thou hast been boasting her virgin love to have won ; 
So thy wife Eriemhild told her. Hastthon,8irknight,sodonef" 



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HOW TOE TWO QOXSKS BGTILES ONE AFOTHEB. 151 
881. 

" Not I," made answer Siegfried, " and if she bo did b&j, 
Ere I rest, abe surely stall for her folly pay, 
And before aU thy liegemen my solemn oath I'll take, 
That nor to her nor otben such words I ever ^mke." 

88S. 
Then said the king of Bhinetand, " make this at ouce appear ; 
The oatli, wliicli thou hast profier'd, take before us here, 
And of all idle charges at once Til set thee bee" 
In circle the Burgimdiaus all standing you might see. 

886. 
Straight the noble Siegfried swore with uplifted hand. 
" T is enough," said Ghmther, " so well I understand 
Thy innocence, that &eely all doubts I here remit, 
Hy sister did accuse thee, and I with joy acquit." 

887. 
Then answer'd noble Siegfried, " if it avail her ought 
To bfliTe grier'd thy gentle consort, and set her thus at nought. 
Such gain of her's, assure thee, I deeply shall lament." 
Then the bold knights flz'd glances each on the other bent. 

888. 
" Women must be instructed," said Siegfried the good knight, 
" To leave otT idle talking, and rule their tongues aright. 
Keep thy fair wife in order, I'll do by mine the same. 
Such overweening folly puts me indeed to shame." 

889. 
Hasty words have often sunder'd isdr dames before. 
Then went on sad Brunhild to weep uid wail so sore, 
That Onnther's warriors could not but pity such deep griet 
Then to his sovran lady came Hagan, Trony's chief. 



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fOUBTEXFTH 4J>TEimraB. 



He aak'd her, what had h^pen'd— wherefore he saw herweep ; 
She told him all the atoiy ; he vow'd to her fuU deep, 
That reap ahould Kriemhild'a husbaiid as he had dor'd to bow, 
Or that himself thereafter content should never know. 

891. 
Ortwine of Metz and G«mot both came to the debate, 
"Where the collected chieftaina advis'd on Siegfried's &te. 
Fair Uta'a aon, young Qiselher, alike the council aought ; 
He, when he heard the queetioii, thus spoke his honest thought. 
892. 

" Te good knights and noble, why would you do thia ? 

Never sure has Siegfried done so much amisa, 

Or merited such hatred, that he should lose his bie. 

Sure 't is but a trifle to stir an angry wife." 
893. 

" Shall we bring up bastards P" said Hagan furiously ; 

" That were little honour for knights of our degree. 

He hath slander'd my dear lady in his boastful fit. 

Die will I in this quarrel, or his life shall answer it." 
894. 

Then spake himself king Ghmther, "nought has he done but give 

To UB all love and honour ; we needs must let him Hve. 

How can it be fitting that I ahould do him iU ? 

True was he to us ever alike in deed and will." 
895. 

The knight of Metz in answer, Ortwine, then stemfy said, 

"That strength of his, so matchless, shall atandhiminnoatead. 

Let hut my lord permit me, myself will do the deed," 

Against him then the chi^taine unrighteous doom decreed. 



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HOW THE TWO QCE£NB BETILEQ 0H£ ANOTUBB. 153 
896. 

Xone mged the matter fiirther, ezc^t that Hagan still 
Kept ever promptisg Gusther the goiltJeas blood to spill ; 
Saying, that, if Siegfried periali'd, his death to him would bring 
The sway o'er many a kingdom. Sore moum'd the waveringking. 

897. 
StiU sbmnk they fixtm petfortnance; &ir sports meanwhile were 

plied. 
Ah t what spears were ahiver'd between the palace wide 
Aod the lofly minst^ Sieg&ied's iair dame before ! 
Tbia with angry murmura the men of Qimther bore. 

898. 
Then said the ling, " ye warriors, refrain your murderoua hate ; 
Bom was he for the safety and hononr of our state. 
Besides, so stout of body is he, and strong of hand ; 
That, should he come to know it, none durst his fuiy stand." 

899. 
" H'ay,niy good lord," said Hagan, "take comfort and good cheer. 
The weeping of fair Brunhild, be sure, shall cost him dear. 
Trust to my secret practice to guide this matter right. 
Brer shall he find in TT it g a n a fatal opposite." 

900. 
Thereto replied king Gunther, " but bow can this be&ll ?" 
To him straight answer'd Hagan, " list, and I'll tell you all. 
Let messengers ride hither, whom here no person knows. 
And bid you open battle as if from foreign foes. 

901. 
Before your guests make public, that you and all your men 
Must forthwith hence to battle ; he will not dally then. 
But proffer you hia service, and thus will lose his life ; 
I'll worm us out hia secret from his loquacious wife." 



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FIFTXEITTH ASTXFTirBS. 



The king took, to his ruin, th' advice Mb liegeman gave. 
The chiefs their horrid treason 'gainst th' innocent and hrave 
Carried with Buch close practice, that none the train covdd spy. 
Thus brought two women's quarrel many a good knight to die. 



FIFTEENTH ADVENTUBE. 

HOW BIXQFRIEI) WAS B£TBAI£1). 
903. 

Fboh thence 't waa the fourth morning, when two and thiriymei 
To the court came riding ; 't was told king Gunther then, 
That Hm and his Burgundians their task was to defy. 
Woe were the fearM women &om this foul-&amed lie. 

904. 
At once they got permisBion before the king to go. 
And told him that &om Ludger they came, his former foe. 
Of old o'ercome in battle by Siegfined's conquering hand. 
And brought by him a captive into G-imther's land. 

905. 
The mesBengers he greeted, and each bad choose a seat. 
Then one among them answer' d, "to stand, my lord, is meet. 
Till we have told our meBsage, and all our duty done. 
Know, that you have for foemen many a mother's son. 

606. 
Ludegaet and Ludger you to the death defy. 
The kings whom you entreated so hard in years gone by. 
In anna into your country they are resolv'd to ride." 
Full of wrath aeem'd Girntho: to hear himself defied. 



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HOW Sre&FBIED -WAS BKTSAXED. 155 

907. 
Then were the felse pretenders led to gaeBt-chamhen fair. 
Ah I how could noble Siegfried, ot any eke beware 
The trains of that vile treason, which, for the guiltless spread, 
Soon brought down death and niin on each contriTer's head P 

908. 
The kingabout went whisp'ring with the Mends he loved the best. 
H^an, the knight of Trony, nerer let him rest. 
Many of the king's companions to stop the treason tried, 
But Hagan from his counsel not once would turn aside. 

909. 
One day it fell that Siegfried close whisp'ring found the band, 
"When thus began to ask them the knight of Netheriand, 
" Why creep the king and chieftains so sorrowful abng P 
I'D help you to rerei^ it, if you have suffer'd wrong." 

910. 
" Qood cause have I for sorrow," Qnnther straight replied, 
" Ludegast and Ludger both have me defied. 
With open force they threaten to ravage all my Iwid." 
Then spake the dauntless champion, "their pride shall Siegfried's 

911. 
Both to your boot and honour, bring lower, and once more 
111 do unto those boasters e'en as I did before. 
Ere I end, o'er castles, o'er lands, o'er all I'll spread 
Wide waste and desolation, or forfeit else my head. 

912. 
Do you and your good warriors sit by the chimney side ; 
With my knights here about me thither let me ride. 
How willingly I serve you, my acts and deeds shall show, 
Asd every one shall feel it who boasts himself your foe." 



166 TIPTEBITTH ASVEMTUSE. 

913. 

"Ah! how this promise cbeera me!" the king diflsembling said, 
Ab though rejoic'd in eameHt at that free-pFotFer'd aid. 
Low bow'd to him the Mae one with fawning aemblance &ir. 
Then return'd Sir Siegfried, " take now no further cue." 

014. 
For the march the Bnrgundians prepar'd in show the while, 
Tet Siegfried and his wBiriora 't wae done but to beguile. 
Then bad be atraight make ready each Ifetherlandiah knight. 
They sought out the best huneas and soreet arms they might. 

915. 
Then spake the valiant Siegfried, " Sir Siegmond, father mine. 
Beat tany here in quiet till we return to Bhine. 
Conquest, if God befriraid us, we shortly back shall bring, 
meanwhile live blithe and merry with our good host the king." 

916. 
The flags anon were hoisted, and forwvd all would iare ; 
Among the men of Gunther many a one was there 
"Who knew not his lord's secret, and thought no treacheiy. 
There might you see with Siegfried a mighty company. 

917. 
Their helms and eke their mailcoats upon their steeds were tied. 
Many a knight of prowess ready was to ride. 
Then Hagan, lord of Trony, as had before been plana* d, 
Went to take leave of Kriemhild ere yet they left the land. 

918. 
" Ah I well is me," said Kriemihild, " that I've a lord who lends 
Such firm assistance ever to back my dearest friends, 
Ab now does my brave Siegfried for my brethren's sake ; 
Therefore," said the frur lady, '^good courage will I take. 



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HOW SIEOFBIED WAS BETBATgD. 157 

919. 

My good friend, Sir Hagan, bear in remembrance atiU 
How much I love my kinsmen, nor ever wiah'd them ill. 
Por this Teqtiite my huBhand, nor let me vainly long ; 
He should not pay the forfeit, if I did Brunhiid wrong. 

920. 
My &ult," pursued she sadly, " good cause had I to rue. 
For it I have far'd badly ; he beat me black and blue ; 
Such mischief-making tattle his patience could not brook. 
And for it ample vengeance on my poor limbs he took." 

621. 
"You'll be Mends together," said he, "some other day. 
But, Kriemhild, my dear lady, tell me now, I pray, 
At my hands to your husband what service can be done. 
Fain would I do it, lady, better love I none." 

922. 
The noble dame made answer, " fear should I not at all. 
That by the aword of any my lord in fight would &11, 
But that he rashly follows his fiery martial mood. 
Mse could no h^na be&ll him the noble kinght and good." 

928. 
" Iiady," then answer'd Hagan, " since thus yon harbour fear 
Lest hostile force should slay him, let me yet ftirther hear. 
What best may serve our purpose the warrior to defend. 
On foot, on horse, I'll watch him, his guardian uid his &iend." 

924. 
Sud she, " thou art my cousin, and I alike am thine ; 
To thy good &ith commend I this dearest lord of mine. 
That thou'wilt tend his welfare, assurance firm I hold." 
Then told she him the secret &r better left untold. 



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168 PIITIXNTH ASTEDTUBE. 

925. 
Stud she, "my busband'e daring, and thereto stoat of limb ; 
Of old, when, on the mountain he dew the dragon grim. 
In its blood he bath'd him, and them^e do more can feel 
In his charmed peraoD the deadly dint of BteeL 

926. 
Still am I ever anxious, whene'er in fight he stands, 
And keen-edg'd darte are hailing &om strong heroic hands, 
Lest I by one should lose him, my own beloved make. 
Ah ! how my heart is beating still for my Sieg&ied's sake ! 

927. 
So now I'll tell the secret, dear fiiend, alone to thee 
(For thoo, I doubt not, cousin, will keep thy futh with me), 
Where sword may pierce my darling, and death sit on the thruafi. 
See, in thy truth and honour how fiiU, how firm my trust ! 

928. 
As Irom the dragon's death -wounds gush'd out the crimson gore, 
With the smoking torrent the warrior wash'd him o'er. 
A leaf then 'twizt his shoulders fell from the linden bough. 
There only steel can harm him ; for that I tremble now," 

929. 
Then said the chief of Trony, " a little token sew 
Upon his outer garment ; thus shall I surer know 
The spot that needs protection as in the fight we stand." 
She thought his life to lengthen, the while his death was plaim'd. 

930. 
Sud she, " upon his vesture with a fine silken thread 
I'll sew a secret croslet ; by. this small token led 
Thy hand shall guard my husband, as through the press he goes. 
And in the shock of battle con&onts his swarming foes." 



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TA^S BETBAYED. lo9 

931. 

" So will I do," Baid Hagan, " my honour'd lady dear." 
She thought her lord to profit, and keep &om danger clear, 
But all she did to aid him eerv'd but to betray. 
Leave then took Sir Hagan, and joyous strode away. 

932. 
What he had leam'd from Kriemluld his lord then bad him ahow. 
" Put off this miarch," said Hagau, " and let us hunting go ; 
Now have I all the secret ; now in my hand is he ; 
Could you but contriTO it P' " For that," said G^uuther, " trust 
to me." 

933. 
The felse king and his courtiers to hear his words were fein. 
I ween, so base a treason knight ne'er will do again, 
As then was done by Hagan, when to his faith for aid 
So fair a lady trusted, and eio foully was betrayed. 

934. 
Next morning on his journey in haste Sir Siegfried sped. 
Of his men a thousand merrUy he led. 
He thought his fo^ to punish who had his friends defied. 
Kezt him rode Sir Hagan, and dose his vesture eyed. 

935. 
Soon as the mark he noted, he bad ia secret go 
Two of his men some distance, and come as from the foe. 
Saying, that only friendship to Burgundy was meant. 
And that they to King Gomther from Ludeger were sent. 

933. 
How then it irk'd Sir Siegfried to turn at once the rein, 
Ere he in his friend's quarrel had battled once again ! 
Scarce could the men of Gunther divert him frwm his way. 
So to the king back rode he, who thus hia thanks 'gan pay. 



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160 PIPXEEirTH AKTBtrrCHE. 

987. 
" Now God requite you, Siegfried, of all my friends the beat ! 
Since you are always ready to do what I reqiieet, 
111 erer do my utmost to merit such good will. 
Many are the friends 1 trust in, but you 're the snreat Btill. 

988. 
Now that we're free from foemen, and in firm peace abide. 
Hence to the "Wask forest a-hunting lot hb ride, 
To chace the bears and wild swine, as oft I've done of yore." 
The faithless, murderous Hagan hadcouneel'd this before. 

939. 
" To sii my guests and kioamen it straight announc'd shall be, 
I mean to start full early ; whoe'er would ride with me, 
Must forthwith make him ready ; whoe'er would here abide, 
Iiet him amuse the ladies ; with both Fm satisfied." 

940. 
Then courteously made answer Siegfried the stout and Btrong, 
" If you're inclined for hunting, gladly will I along. 
8o lend me but a huntsman and a good brach dr two. 
And I into the forest will find my way like you." 

941. 
" If one will not suffice you," the fi^udful king relied, 
" I'll lend you four good huntsmen, who know the forest wide. 
And every track soever where the wild beasts roam. 
You'U never, with their guidance, come empty-handed home." 

942. 
Thence to his gentle lady rode ofi* the warrior bold. 
Quick to the king bad Hagan the baleful tidings told. 
How he would surely trap him, the champion frank and free. 
Never was such foul treason, nor ever more will be. 



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HOW SIEOTKIED WAS 81AIK. 



When now was laid the deatli<plot \>j that base tnutor pair. 
The rest then all consented. Gemot and Giselher 
Neither would join the hunting ; I know not through what fear 
Or Bpite they waiii'd not Sieg&ied; soonpay'd they for it dear. 



SIXTEENTH ADTENTTTEB. 

HOW aiEOFBIED WAS SLAIIT. 

GrHTHEE and Hagan, the WMriora fierce and bold, 
To execute their treason, resoly'dto Bcour the wold, 
The bear, the boar, the wild bull, by hill or dale or fen, 
Tohuntwithkeen-edg'djarelinB; what fitter Bportfor valiant men? 

945. 
In lordly pomp rode with them Siegfiried the champion strong. 
Oood storo of eoatly viands they brought with them along. 
Anon by a cool runnel he lost his guiltless life. 
'T was so devis'd by Brunhild, king Gunther's moody wife. 

946. 
But first he sought the chamber where he his lady found. 
He and his friends already had col the siunpters bound 
Their gorgeous hunting raiment ; they o'er the Ehine would go. 
Never before was Eriemhild sunk so deep in woe. 

947. 
On her mouth of roses he kiss'd his lady ieta ; 
" God grant me, dame, returning in health to see thee here ; 
So may those eyes see me too ; meanwhile be blithe and gay 
Among thy gentle kinsmen ; I must hence away." 



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1& SIXTEENTH ADTENTUKE. 

918. 

Then tliought she on the secret (the truth she durst not teQ) 

How she had told it Hagan ; then the poor lady fell 

To wailing and lamenting that ever she was horn. 

Then wept she without mesHure, sobbing and sorrow-worn. 

949. 
She thus bespi^e her husband, " give np that chace of thine. 
I dreamt last night of evil, how two fierce forest swine 
Over the heath pursued thee ; the flowers tum'd bloody red. 
I cannot help thus weeping ; I'm chill'd with mortal dread. 

950. 
I fear some secret treason, and cannot lose thee hence, 
Lest malice should be borne thee for misconceiT'd offence. 
Stay, my beloved Siegfiied, take not my words amiss. 
'T is the true love I bear thee that bids me counsel this," 

951. 
" Back shall I be shortly, my own beloved mate, 
Not a soul in Bhineland know I, who bears me hate. 
I'm well with all thy kinsmen ; they're all my firm allies ; 
Nor have I from any e'er deserv'd otherwise." 

952.. 
" Nay I do not, dearest Siegfried ! 't is e'en thy death I dread. 
Last night I dreamt, two mountdns fell thundering on thy head. 
And I no more beheld thee ; if thou from me wilt go, 
My heart will sure be breaking with bitterness of woe." 

953. 
Bound her peerless body his clasping arms he threw ; 
Lovingly he kiss'd her, that faithful vrife and true ; 
Then toot his leave, and parted ; — in a moment all was o'er — 
Living, alas poor lady ! she saw him never more. 



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HOT 8IX0FBIES WAS SLAIK. 163 

951. 

Then rode they then<%, and hasteu'd to a wildering forest drear. 
Many a bold knight, on pastime intent and merry cheer, 
In the train of Gunther and Siegfried took hie way. 
Stout Gemot and young Oiselher at home preferc'd to stay, 

955. 
Many a well-laden sumpter before them eroas'd the Rhine, 
That for the fellow-hunterB carried bread and wine. 
And flesh and fish in plenty, with eyery dainty thing 
That might become the table of auch a mighty king. 

966. 
Their couTBe the noble hunters check'd in an open glade, 
Where the wild beaata, that haunted the neighbouring green- 
wood shade, 
Pasa'd to and fro by custom ; the hunt they here would hold. 
Thither at length came Siegfried ; straight to the king 'twas told. 

957. 
Now every path and outlet the huntsmen had beset, 
When thus beapake Sir Siegfried the chiefs who there were met, 
" Te bold and dauntiesa warriors ! who will the honour chum 
To enter first the forest, and bring ua to the game P" 

958. 
" Ere we begin our pastime," Sir Hagan straight replied, 
" Here in this glade together, 't were better first divide. 
We then shall see more clearly, my lords as well as I, 
Who's the most cunning sporteman of this fair company. 

959. 
Let us diride amongst us the huntsmen and the hounds. 
Then each, where'er he pleases, beat ail these woody bounds, 
And who excels bis comrades, shall thanks have from the rest." 
Not long the hunters linger'd, but started on their quest, 
u 2 



BIXTEENTD ABTENTtlKE. 



Then swd tbe good Sir Sieg&ied, " I do not need a pack ; 
One TeU-tKHn'd tound will aerre me the lurking beasts to track. 
And the close scent to follow through every bush and brake. 
We'll now begin our hunting," So Kriemhild's husband spake. 

961. 
With that an aged huntsman a watcbAil limehound took. 
And shortly brought the champion into a shady nook. 
Where store of beasts were couching ; as each sprung &oni his 

i, like good hunters, fell on and caught them there. 



All, that the limehound stuted, anon with mighty hand 
Were slain by noble Siegfiied the chief of Netherland. 
No beast could there outrun him, so swift his steed could race ; 
He won &om all high praisea for mastery in the chace. 

963. 
Whatever he attempted, he went the best before. 
The first beast he encounter'd was a fierce half-bred boar. 
TTini with a mighty death-Stroke he stretch'd upon the ground ; 
Just ^ter in a thicket a lion huge he found. 

964. 
Him the limehound started ; his bow Sir Siegfried drew ; 
With a keen-headed arrow he shot the lion through. 
But three faint bounds thereafter the dying monster made. 
His wond'ring fellow-huntsmen thanks to Sir Siegfried paid. 

965. 
Then one upon another a bufialo, an elk 
He slew, four strong ureoieu, and last a savage sheik. 
No beaat, how swift soever, could leave his steed behind ; 
Scarcely their apeed could profit the ilying hart or hind. 



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HOW HISGFBIES WAS SLAIK. 165 

966. 

Next the s^adoua limer a monatrous wild boar trac'd ; 

JuBt then the master-hunter came sudden up in haste. 

And croes'd his path undaunted ae he to flj hegan. 

Straight the churning monster at his bold opponent ran. 
967. 

Then forward sprung Sir Siegfried, and with his sword him slew ; 

Such feat, I ween, no hunter heaidea had dw'd to do. 

Then leash'd they the good limefaound, and from the thicket led, 

And told all the Burgundians how Siegfried's chace had aped. 

968. 
Then said his merry huntsmen, " Sir Siegfried, be so kind 
As not our wood to empty, but leave some game behind. 
There'll else he nothing liring on mountain or on wold." 
The champion at their jesting his laughter scarce could hold, 

969. 
They heard then all about them, throughout those forest grounds, 
Such shouting and such haying of huntsmen and of hounds, 
That hill and wood re-echoed with the wild uprot^. 
Th' attendants had uncoupled four and twenty dogs or more. 

970. 
Then full many a monster was doom'd his last to groan. 
They thoi^ht with glad expectance to challenge for their own 
The praise for the beat hunting ; but lower sunk their pride, 
When to the tryst-fire shortly they saw Sir Siegfried ride, 

971, 
The hunting now was over for the most part at least ; 
Grtane was brought in plenty and skins of many a beast 
To the place of meeting, and laid the hearth before. 
Ah ! to the busy kitchen what full supplies they bore t 



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160 StXTEEKTH AQTENIURE. 

972. 

Then bad Qunther Bununon the noble hunting crew 
To the royal breakfast ; a horn a hnntaman blew 
That far and wide re-echoed, and told to all around 
That by the tryat-fire ready the king waa to be fonnd. 

973. 
Said one of Siegiried's huntsmen, " I beard a warning blast. 
That thrilling bom asenres me our hunting time is past ; 
"We must back to our fellows ; answer it will I." 
So through the wood resounding rang question and reply. 

974. 
Then spake the good Sir Siegfried, "Well ! let us leave the wood," 
His courser bore him , smoothly, fast prick'd his comrades good. 
"With their noise they rous'd a monster, a wild bear fierce and 

Said SiegMed o'er hia shoulder to those who follow'd him, 

97S. 
" Now, comrades, look for pastime ! see you yon thicket there ? 
8Up the dog directly ; I spy a monstrous bear. 
The same shall instant with us hence to the trysting^placfl. 
To get off in safety swift he indeed must pace." 

976. 

Straight they slipp'd the limer ; off le^t the bear with speed; 
Sir Siegfried thought to catch him throi^b swiftness of his steed. 
He came on fallen timber, so thus it could not be ; 
Then deem'd himself the monster from his fierce hunter free. 

977. 
Downaprang from horse Sir Siegfried, and plied on foot thechace; 
N'ought then could aid the monster o'ermaster'd in the race. 
Sir Sieg&ied strongly seized him, and cast a rope around, 
.And, ere he once could wound him, the struggling bear be bound. 



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BOW SIS&FBIED WA.S SLAIH. 167 

978. 
So &at the warrior bound him, he could nor scratch nor bite, 
Then tied him to the saddle, and after mounted light. 
So to the tryet-fire laughing with his snorting load, 
Bj way of sport and pastime, the fearless warrior rode. 

979. 
In hia state how lordly thither he came along ! 
Huge was hie mighty boar-apear, weighty and broad and stroiig ; 
To his spur descended the good sword that he wore ; 
Of ruddy gold fyr-gUttering a hunting horn he bore. 

980. 
Of better hunting-vesture never heard I tell. 
Hia coat of darkest siunite became the warrior well. 
His cap of richest sable sat with a careless grace, 
And his death-feaught quiver was bound with many a lai^e. 

981. 
"With the akin of a panther the same waa cover'd o'er 
For ii» balmy sweetneM ; a strong bow too he bore. 
Which none but with a windlas could draw, howe'er he strove, 
Unlew himself waa present at the mark to rove. 

982. 
All his outer garment was of a lyni's hide. 
From head to foot with cunning 't waa speckled all and pied. 
On either aide descending of the maater-hunter bold 
Prom the rich fiM there ghtter'd many a bright thread of gold. 

983. 
Girded he was with Bolmung, a broad and mighty blade. 
With such keen cutting edges, that straight its way it made 
Where'er it smote on helmet, and thousands did to die. 
'Sooth was the lordly hunter of betuiag proud and high. 



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168 SIXTEEITTH ADVENTCBE. 

984. 
Beaidea (of this my rtoiy to tell you every part) 
Fraught wae his splendid quiver with many a dreary dwt ; 
The shaft of each was gilded, a hand's-breadth was the steel. 
'T waa death of those grim arrows a single wound to feel. 

dSS. 
So stately from the forest rode on the noble knight ; 
The men of Qimther mark'd him soon as he came ia sight, 
And ran, and held his courser, and gave him tendance fair. 
Meanwhile close to the saddle lay bound the groaning bear. 

986. 
The knight, from horse alighting, soft the baud untied 
Thatboundhispawsandmuzzle;strdght,whenthebearthey spied, 
All the pack of yelpera open'd on him loud. 
The beast made for the forest, scattering the startled crowd. 

987. 
Scared by the din and uproar be through the kitchen rac'd. 
Ah ! how the cooks and scullions from round the fire be chac'd! 
Upset were pans and kettles, and store of savoury hashes, 
Soast, boil'd and etew'd together were hissing in the ashes. 

988. 
From their seats upstarted the lords and all the band ; 
The hear flew into fiiry ; straight gave the kiTig command 
The hounds to uncouple, and slip them on the prey. 
Had it all thus ended, it had been a merry day. 

989. 
With bows and mighty boar-spears (no more was quiet there) 
Upsprung the light-foot warriors and chac'd the flying bear. 
The dogs were there so many, none dar'd a dart to fling. 
With shouting and hallooing they made the mountains ring. 



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HOW aiEGFatEJ) WiB SLAIN. 169 

990. 
Before the dogs he scamper'd ; they follow'd where he led ; 
But 't was the awift-foot Sieg&ied that caught him as he fled. 
Once with hia sword he amote him ; he wallow'd in hia gore. 
Back to the scatter'd tryst-fire his fiaenda the monster bore. 

991. 
Loud shouted each beholder that 't was a matchless blow. 
Now the high-bom huntera were bidden to table go- 
Down in a flowery meadow sat they right merrily. 
Ah ! what dainty riaads cheer'd that proud company ! 

992. 
Still delaj'd the attendanta the ruddy wine to pour. 
Never else were warriors better serv'd before. 
But for the heinous treason with which they &am'd their plot, 
All that choice band of champions were free £rom Iflame or blot. 

993. 
Then said the noble Siegfried, " I needs muat wonder here. 
That joyous wine is wanting with such abundant cheer. 
When so o'erflowa the kitchen, how ia't the cellar's diy? 
Treat merry hunters better, or hunt no more will I, 

994. 
I have deserv'd in Ehineland more hospitable care." 
Then answering from the table apoke G^unther false and &ir. 
" Thia &ult shall soon be mended, and reason done you first. 
For this we may thank Hagan, who makes us die of thirst." 

995. 
Then sMd the chief of Trony ; " my lord and master dear, 
1 thought that this day's hunting was not to be held here. 
But in tho wood of Speasart, so thither sent the wine. 
The like shall never happen again by tault of mine," 



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170 SIXTESKTH ABTEFTUSZ. 

996. 

Then aaid the Netheriander, " little thank I such care. 
I lookM for seven good somptere to mend our thirstj &ra 
With mead and wine of spie^ ; if bo we ooold not dine, 
Better by (ar have plac'd us close beside the Ehine." 

997. 
Then spake the chief of Trony, " ye noble knights and bold, 
I know just to our wishes a runnel clear and cold 
Close by, BO be not angry, but thither let ua go." 
Tb' advice brought many a champion sorrow and mortal woe. 

998. 
Tet could not then his danger the death-doom'd hero spy. 
Little thought he so foully by seeming firiends to die. 
His heart knew nought of &laehoQd; 't was open, frank, and plain . 
F<»- his death dear paid thereafter who fondly hop'd to gain. 

999. 
The noble knight Sir Siegfiied with thirst was sore opprest. 
So earlier rose from table, and could no longer rest, 
But straight would to the mountain the running brook to find. 
And so advanc'd the treason his Pithless foea design'd. 

1000. 
Meanwhile were slowly lifted on many a groaning wain 
The beasts in that wild forest by Sieg&ied's manhood slain. 
Each witness gave him honour, and loud his praises spoke. 
Alas ! that with him Hagan his faith so foully broke. 

aooi. 

Now when to the broad linden they all would take their way, 
Thus spake the fraudful Bagan, " fiill oft have I heard say. 
That none a match in swiitness for Eriemhild's lord can be. 
Whene'er to race he pleases ; would he grant us this to see ?*' 



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HOW BIEGFBIED WAS BLAIV. 171 

1002. 

Then spake the Netherlaader, 8ieg&ied with open heart, 
" Well then ! let's make the triid ! together we will start 
Prom hence to yonder mnnel j let ua at once begin, 
And he shall pass fcnr winner who shall be seen to win." 

1003. 
"Agreed!" said treacherous Hagan, "let us each other try." 
Thereto rejoin'd etont Siegfried, " and if you pass me by, 
Down at your feet I'll lay me humbled on the grass." 
When these words heard Gunther, what joy could his surpass ? 

1004. 
Then said the fearless champion, " and this I tell you more, 
I'll carry all th' equipment that in the ehace I wore. 
My epear, my shield, my vesture — leave will I nothiog out." 
His sword then and his quiver he girt him quick about. 

1005. 
King Gunther and Sir H^au to strip were nothing slow ; 
Both for the race stood ready in shirts as white as suow. 
Long bounds, like two wild panthers, o'er the grass they took, 
But seen was noble Siegfried before them at the brook. 

1006. 
Whate'er he did, the warrior high o'er his fellows soar'd. 
Now laid he down his qiuTor, and quick nngirt his sword. 
Against the spreading linden he leau'd his mighty spear. 
So by the brook stood waiting the chief without a peer. 

1007. 
In every lofty virtue none with Sir Siegfried vied. 
Down ho laid hia buckler by the water's side. 
For aR the thirst that paich'd him, one drop he never drank 
Tin the T""g had finish'd ; he had full evil thank. 



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172' BIXTEBNTD ABTENTUBE. 

1008. 

Cool was tlie little ruiuiel,''aiid sparkled clear as glass. 
O'er the rill king Gunther knelt down upon the grass. 
When he Ua draught had taken, he rose and stepp'd aside. 
TVll fain dike would SiegMed his thirst have satisfied. 

1009. 
Sear paid he for his courtesy ; his bow, his matchless blade, 
His weapons all, Sir Hogan &r iram their lord convey' d, 
Then back sprung to the linden to seize his ashen spear, 
And to find out the token snryey'd his Testure near ; 

1010. 
Then, as to drink Sir SiegMed down kneeling there he found. 
He pierc'd him through the croalet, that sudden &om the wound 
Forth the life-blood spouted e'en o'er his murderer's weed. 
Never more will warrior dare bo foul a deed. 

1011. 
Between his shoulders sticking he left the deadly spear. 
Never before Sir Hagan so fled for ghastly fear, 
As &om the matchless champion whom he had butcher'd there. 
8oon as was Sir Siegfried of the mortal wound aware, 

1012. 
Up he from the runnel started as he were wood. 
Out from betwiit his shoulders his own huge boar-spear stood. 
He thought to find hia quiver or his broadsword true. 
The traitor for hia treason had then receiv'd his due. 

1013. 
But, ah ! the deadly-wounded nor sword nor quiver found ; 
H'B shield alone beside him lay there upon the ground. 
This from the bank he lifted and straight at Hagan ran ; 
Him could not then by fieetness escape king Ghinther'e man. 



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HOW SIEGFRIED WAS SLAIN. 173 

1014. 

E'en to the death though wounded, he hurl'd it with such power, 
That the whirling buckler scatter'd wide a ahower 
Of the most precdoua jewels, then straight in shivers broke. 
Full gladly had the warrior ta'en vengeance with that stroke. 

1015. 
E'en as it waa, his manhood fierce lT«gii.Ti level'd low. 
Loud, aU around, the meadow rang with the wondrous blow- 
Had he .in hand good Balmung, the murderer he had slain. 
His wound was sore upon him ; he wiith'd in mortal pain. 

1016. 
His lively colour &ded ; a cloud came o'er his sight ; 
He could stand no longer ; melted all his might ; 
In his paling yisage the mark of death he bore. 
Soon many a lovely lady sorrow'd for him sore. 

1017. 
So the lord of Eriemhild among the flowerets felL 
From the wound fresh gushing his heart's blood fiiet did well. 
Then thus amidst his tortures, e'en with his filing breath. 
The Mae Mends he upbraided who had contriv'd his death, 

1018. 
Thus spake the deadly-wounded, " Ay ! cowards false as hell ! 
To you I still was faithful ; I aerv'd you long and well ; — 
But what boots all ?■ — for guerdon treason and death I've won. 
By your Mends, vile traitors I foully have you done. 

1019. 
Whoever shall hereafter from your loins be bom. 
Shall take &om such vile fathers a heritage of scorn. 
On me you have wreak'd malice where gratitude was due. 
With shame shall you be banish'dl^aUgoodknightB and true." 



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174 aiXTEEHTH ADTENTUBE- 

1020. 

Thither ran bH the warriors where in hie blood ho lay. 
To many of that party sure 't was a joyieBS day. 
Whoe'er were tme and faithful, they sorrow'd for his &11. 
So much the peerless champioa had merited of all. 

1021. 
With them the false king Gunther bewept his timelesa end. 
Then spake the deadly-wounded ; " little it boots your fi4end 
Yourself to plot his murder, and then the deed deplore. 
Such is a shameful sorrow ; better at once 't were o'er." 

1022. 
Then spake the low'ring Hagan, " I know not why you moan. 
Our csKa all and suBpicions are now for ever fiown. 
Who now are left, against us who'Q dare to make defence ? 
Well's mo, for all this weeping, that I have rid him hence." 

1023. 
" Small cause bast thou," said Siegfried, " to glory in my late. 
Had I ween'd, thy Mendahip cloak'd such murderous hate, 
From such as thou full lightly could I have kept my life. 
Now grieve I but for Kriemhild, my dear, my widow'd wife. 

1024. 
Now may God take pity, that e'er I had a son, 
Who this reproach must suffer from deed bo foully done, 
That by his murderous kinsmen his father thns was slain. 
Had I but time to finish, of this I well might plain. 

1025. 
Surely so base a muider the world did never see," 
Said he, and tum'd to Gunther, " as you have done on me. 
I sav'd your life and honour from Bbame tmd danger fell, 
And thua am I requited by yon I serv'd so well. 



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HOW SIEQFBIED WAS SLAIK. 176 

1026. 

Then fiirther spake the dying, and speaking agWi fiJl deep, 
" Oh king ! if thou a promiae with any one wilt keep. 
Let m© in fchia laat moment thy grace taid iavonr find 
For my dear love and lady, the wife I leave behind. 

1027. 
Bemember, she's thy sister, yield her a sister's right, 
G-uard her with faith and honour, as thou'rt a king and knight. 
My lather and my followers for me they long must wait. 
Comrade ne'er found fixim conu^ade so sorrowful a fiite." 

1028. 
In his mortal anguish he writh'd him to and fro, 
And then a^d, deadly groaning, " this foul and murderous blow 
Deep vein ye me hereafter ; this for sure truth retain. 
That in slaying Siegfried you yourselves have slain." 

1029. 
■With blood were all bedabbled the flowerets of the field. 
Some time with death he struggled, as though he scom'd to yield 
E'en to the foe, whose weapon strikes down the loftiest head. 
At last prone in the meadow lay mighty Siegfried dead. 

1030. 
When now the chiefs were certain that dead was the good knight. 
They kid him on a buckler with gold all richly dight, 
Then counsel took togelier the general to mislead. 
And keep the sbamefol secret that Hagan did the deed. 

1031. 
Then many said repenting, " this deed will prove our bale ; 
StiU let us shroud the secret, and aU keep in one tale, 
That the good lord of Eriemhild to hunt alone preferr'd, 
And so was slain by robbers as through the wood he spurr'd." 



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176 SIXTEENTH ABVENirBE. 

1032. 
" I'll bring him home, and gladly," ^d Hagan frowning stem ; 
" Ab to his wife, I reck not whether the truth she learn, 
Who Blander'd gentle Brunhild, and vnyjught her ao much ill. 
I care not for Her weeping, do she whate'er she will." 

1033. 
Of that same little runnel where Siegfiied murder'd fell. 
The true tmd rightfid etory you now ehall here me tell. 
In th' OdenwaJd ia a village, Odenbeim is its name. 
There still the brook is runniag ; doubt not it is the same. 



SEVENTEENTH ADVENTURE. 

HOW SIEOFKIED WAS BEWAJLED AND BUBIES. 

1034. 
Till nightfall there they tarried, and then the Bhine recross'd; 
Nerer jet hunted warriors at such a grievous coet. 
Many a feir lady aorrow'd for a hart they slew that day ; 
The life of many a champion must for that hunting pay. 

1035. 
Of overweening outrage now must tell my strain, 
And dire revenge remorseless ; the dead, thus foully slwn, 
Aa though atbirst for horrors, Hagan bad bear away. 
And cast before the chamber where unweeting Kriemhild lay. 

1036. 
He bad his followera darkling down lay him at the door. 
That she might surely find him, aa she atepp'd the threshold o'er 
G^ing forth to matins ere the dawn of day, 
I'or &om a single service she seldom kept away. 



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HOW aiEOFBIED WAS BEWAILED AMD BtTBTED. 177 

im. 

The minster bells were ringing at tV early cuBtom'd hour. 
Upstarted then fair Kriemhild, and wak'd each maid in bower. 
For light she call'd and veature that she might straight be gown'd. 
A chamberlain hasten'd thither, and there Sir Siegfried found. 

1038. 
He Haw hint blood-bespatter' d, with weed aU dabbled o'er ; 
He knew not 't was his master atretch'd on the reeking floor ; 
In went he to the chamber ; with him the light he took, 
By which on such deep horror sad Kriemhild was to look. 

1039. 
As she now with her maidens to church would take her way, 
The chamberhun bespoke her ; " lady, a little stay ; 
A murder'd knight is lying close before the siL." 
" Oh woo !" cried fearful Kriemhild, " what means this tale of 
ill P" 

1040. 
Ere yet she could see clearly 't was her lord who there lay slain, 
The question put by Eagan rush'd to her mind agiun, 
How he could guard her husband ; then anguish first she felt ; 
Prom his death f<a' ctcp with withering grief she dwelt. 

104.1. 
To earth down sank she Benseless, that not a word she qioke. 
There lay the fair, the friendless, beneath that mortal stroke. 
Then, from hei swoon reviving, up horn the ground she sprang; 
And shriek'd so shrill and sudden, that all the chamber rang. 

1042. 
Then saidher trembling maidens,"what stranger here lies slain P" 
^rom her mouth a bloody torrent burst through heart-queUing 

" No, no t" said she, " 't is Siegfried, my love, that there lies low. 
"T was Brunhild gave the counsel, and Hagan struck the blow." 



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178 BKTEKTBEJtTH ASTXHTTUSX. 

1013. 

l%ither, There the corpse was lying, ber msids their lady led ; 

With her lily hand, all trembling, she raie'd hie Tim gmnti M head ; 

Howe'er with blood 't waa dabbled, hep lord at once she knew. 

There lay the chief of NetherUnd, a piteouB sight to view. 
1011. 

Then weeping thus and wailing the queen her boitowb ponr'd ; 

" Woe'a me, woe's me for ever ! Bure no &ir foeman'a sword 

Shivep'd thy fmling buckler ; 't waa mTirder rtopp'd fchy breath ; 

Oh that I knew who did it ! death I'd requite with death." 
1015. 

Then wept and wail'd full BhrHly her gentle maidens ali 

With their beloved miBtresB ; woe were they for the iall 

Of their noble master there in his blood embrued. 

Eagan the wrath of Branhild had wreak'd with deadly feud. 

1016. 
Then spake the sorrow-laden, " go hence with your best speed. 
Quick call up Siegfried's liegemen, his warriors good at need ; 
To Siegmund too let tidings cS my deep loss be borne. 
That be may help his daughter hia murder'd son to moum." 

1017. 
A messenger ran quickly, acd came where slept the band 
Of Siegfried's chosen chamjnons fi^m the Ifibelungers' land. 
Their merry cheer his tidings chang'd to sorrow deep. 
His tale they would not credit until they saw him weep. 

1048. 
Thence quickly came he running where aged Siegmund lay. 
Prom the king's aching eydide aweet sleep was fiur away. 
His heart, I ween, foreboded the deed that had been done. 
And that the childless &ther no more should see his son. 



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HOV SrEOFBIED WAS BSVAILED JlSH BUBIED. 179 

1049. 

^ "WakefWake! SirkingJ SirSiegmund! ErieinMld,iny lady dear, 
In haste hath sent me Hither;; she's plung'd in dol^iil drear ; 
Woe, that all woe surpasses, wrings her inmost heart. 
Help her to monm the misery, whereof you own a part." 

1060. 
Then said the king, h^-rising, " what has h^)p'd of Woe 
To the iair laij^ Eriemhild, which here thou com'st to show ?" 
" Alas !" replied he weeping, " concealment here is vain ; 
The noble Ketherlander, Siegfried, thy son, is slain." 

1051. 
Then said the good king Siegmiind, " leave off Such idle sport ; 
for my sake spread no further this miachievouB report. 
Were 't true indeed that Siegfried my son were made away, 
Ke'er could I cease from wailing e'en to my dying day." 

1052. 
" If me you will not credit ; but still will doubt my tale, 
Hark then yourself to Ejiemhild, hear her so wOdly wail, 
Her and her band of maideoB, for noble Siegfried dead." 
Then sorely shudder'd Siegmund ; deep eaose had he for dread. 

106S. 
Str^ght frx)m his bed tip sprang he,aod bis hundred warriors too ; 
Their long sharp-edged weapons with hast; band they drew. 
Where they heard the wailing, headlong they thither ran ; 
Thither too Siegfried's thousand, each a chosen man, 

1054. 
Led by the shrieks of horror, ran with like eager speed. 
Some of the household &ncied they came for funeral weed. 
Well might th^ be confounded, and from their senses start. 
The sting of deadly sorrow was deep in every heart. 
H 2 

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180 SEVEITTSEKTH ABTSimTEB. 

loss. 

Then said the good Ving Siegmnnd, whrai Erietnliild be had seen, 
" Woe worth our journey hither ! would it hjid never been ! 
'Midst such good finenda Mid kiiiBmen, who hue this murder done. 
Which thee hath cost thy husbuid, md me, alaa ! my son P" 

1056- 
The noble lady answer'd, " eouH I the murderer find, 
I'd wreak on him such vengeance with all my heart and mind. 
That all hie friende shoidd Borrow at the woeful tale, 
Whilethey had eyes for weeping, while they had tongues towaiL" 

1057. 
Hisarmsroundthe dead champion Sir Siegmundtremblingthrew; 
Thereat so loud the sorrow of each beholder grew, 
That the proud h^ of Ghmther and the palace high 
And Worms, through all its quarters, rung to the thrilling cry. 

1058. 
But none there could bring comfort to Siegfried's lady true. 
Out from his bloodied vesture his comely limbs they drew. 
And wash'd his wound wide-gaping, and laid him on the bier. 
Woe were hi) weeping followers through heart-consuming drear. 

1039. 
Out then epake his warriors &om the Nibelungers' land. 
" Bevenge will we our master each with his own good huid- 
This very house must harbour him who baa done the deed." 
Then haaten'd Siegfried's meiny to don their wariike weed. 

1060. 
Now did the chosen squadron each vrith his buckler stand, 
Eleven hundred champions ; at head of all the band 
Was seen the reverend Siegmund ; to &ith «id honour true 
Fain would he take vengeance on those who Siegfried slew. 



BOW EIEaFBIES WAS BEWAILXII AND B0BIES. 181. 

1061. 

"With whom tiey were to battle fchey could not yet diseeni, 
TTolesB it were with Gliinther and hie Bvirgundiana atem, 
For with them did Sieg&ied to the fatal hunting go. 
When Kriemhild saw them weapon'd, 't was ill on ill, 't was 
woe on woe. 

1062. 
However deep her anguish, however great her need, 
She fear'd to see her foUowera the Nibelungers bleed 
Beneath her brother's numberfi ; so, their stout miuds to bend. 
She gave them gentle counsel, as Mend should deal with friend. 

1063. 
Thus said the moiunful lady, " Siegmund, my lord, give ear. 
What is it you are doing ? some rash resolve I fear. 
King Gunther haa about him fiill many a man of might ; 
You and all must perish in such unequal fight," 

1064. 
Each had bound on his buckler ; each held his sword in hand ; 
They yeam'd for blood and vengeance ; with prayer and with 

conunand 
She press'd th' impatient warriors to choose the milder part ; 
They call'd for instant battle ; that cut her to the heart. 

1065. 
She spake, "mygood lord Siegmund, lay thoughts of vengeance by 
Till some more fitting season ; then with you fain will I 
Bevenge my murder'd hoaband ; could I but come to know 
Who has made me thus a widow, woe should be his for woe. 

1066. 
Many are the haughty warriors here on the banks of Bhiae, 
So keep peace for the present ; such sure advice is mine ; 
The match is too unequal, thirty at least to one ; 
Qod do to them hereafter as they to us have done. 

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183 BETIlin'BXNTH IDTEITTirBB. 

1067. 
Stay here, and in mj sorrow be pleas'd a part to take, ' 
Miae and tnj lord'e itneagen, till day begin to break, 
And help me then to coffin my lord who there lies low." 
Then all the worriorB answer'd, " dear lady, be it so." 

1068. 
In Booth it was a wonder that none can tell aright, 
How vept and loud lamented many a dame and many a knight. 
That e'en mito the city the rueful wiul was borne ; 
In haate the noble burghers came when they heard them mourn. 

1069. 
They with the gueata lamented, for sore they griev'd aa well. 
"What waa the offence of Siegfried, none of them could tell, 
For which by stroke ao sudden the chief had lost hia life. 
There with the high-born ladies wept each good burgher's wife. 

1070. 
Joinera and smiths wexe aommon'd to frame a cofBn strong. 
Beset with gold and silver, massy uid broad and long, 
And braced with bars of iron to guard the frailer wood. 
Then all the crowd about it in dreary sorrow stood. 

1071. 
And now the night waa over ; forth peep'd the morning &ir ; 
Straight bad the noble lady thence to the tninater bear 
The matchless champion Siegfried, her husband lov'd so dear. 
All her fri^ids dose follow'd with many a sigh and tear. 

1072. 
When they the minster enter' d, how many a bell was rung I 
How many a priest on all sides the moumfdl requiem aung ! 
Then thither with his meiny came Sancrat's haughty son. 
And thither too grim Hagan ; it had been better lefl undone. 



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HOW BtEOFBIED W1.S BHVAIIED ASD 
1073. 

Then spoke the kn^ " dear eieter, woe worth this Iobb of thine ! 
Alas that such mMoitiuie has happ'd to me and aanB ! 
Tor HUM the death of Siegfried we erer both must .me," 
" Nay," said the moumAil lady, " ao without cauae you do, 

1074. 
Por if you really rued it, never had it been. 
I know, yon have your sister foi^otten quite and clean. 
So I and my beloved were parted as you see. 
Gktod God ! would he had granted the stroke had fiill'n on me I" 

1075, 
Tirmly they made denial ; Kriemhild at once replied, 
" Whoe'er in thia ia guiltleBs, let him this proof abide- 
In sight of all the people let him approach the bier. 
And 80 to each beholder shall the plain truth appear." 

1076. 
It is a mighty marr^ which oft e'en now we spy, 
That, whentheblood-Htain'dmurderercomes to the murder' d nigh, 
The wounds break out a-bleeding ; then too the some befell, 
And thus could each beholder the guilt of Hagon tell. 

1077. 
The wounds at once burst Btreaming fast as they did before ; 
Those, who then sorrow'd deeply, now yet lamented more. 
Then ontepake king 0-unther, " I give you here to know, 
He was slain by robbers ; Hagan struck ne'er a blow." 

1078. 
" Ay ! well know I those robbers," bis widow'd sister said ; 
" By the hands of his true comrades may God revenge the dead I 
Palee Gunther,and&l8eHaganI 'twaayou,your friend that slew." 
Thereat the knights of Siegfried grip'd to their awords anew. 



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184 BEVX1<ITEBIITQ AQTENTUBE. 

1079. 

This more distracted KriemhOd ; when in her aimouB ptun 
Two fiiende she saw approaching to seek and mourn the slain, 
Qemot her good brother, and Giselher the young. 
Their eyeawereblind with weeping; true grief theirboaomswrung^. 

1080. 
They wept for Enemhild'e husband, and inly sorrowed too. 
Mass now all would be singing ; the. doors they open threw, 
And straight into the minster both men and women presa'd. 
Those, who could well spare Sieg&ied, moum'd for him with the 
rest. 

1081. 
0«mot then and Giselher thus apake, " my sister dear ! 
For this sad death take comfort, aU must have sorrow here. 
We'll do our beat to help thee sa long as we have life." 
Tet could not they not others console the widow'd wife. 

1082. 
His cofEn now was ready ; it was about midday ; 
IVom the bier he was lifted whereon till now he lay. 
Yet would not his pale lady have him laid at once in ground. 
His fiienda and ^thAil foUowers to further toil were bound. 

1083. 
In richest stuff, deep sighing, they wrapp'd the clay-cold dead ; 
Not one, I ween, waa present, but bitter teare he shed. 
Then wail'd the high-bom TJta ; deep teen in heart she bore ; 
And all her dames lamented that Siegfried was no more. 

1084. 
,8oon as 't waa heard, the murder'd had now been laid in chest 
And that the mass waa ainging, to church the people presa'd. 
For his soul what offerings were brought m all men's view ! 
B*6n midst foes bo deadly, friends had he firm and true. 



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S BSWAILED Aint BDSIED. 185 

1085. 
Then tlie wretched Kjiemhild her chamberlains bespake, 
" Now must you toil and trouble auffer for my sake. 
To those who honour'd Sieg&ied, and dear his widow hold. 
For the bouI of the departed deal out hia treasur'd gidd." 

1086. 
No child, howe'er so little, just knowing wrong &om right. 
But brought an offering thither ; ere buried was the knight, 
At least a hundred maaaeB they sang the whole day long ; 
Thither all friends of Siegfried's flock'd in, anumerous throng. 

.1087. 
When now the chants were over, the crowd would wend away ; 
Then spake the sobbing Eriemhild, " ah ! leave me not, I pray, 
This night alone to sorrow, and watch th' unheeding dead. 
With him, my own beWed, all my joys lie withered. 

1088. 
Three nights^three days, FU keep him, and gaze upon him still, 
Till of the dearly dear one I thus have had my fill. 
What if Ood be willing that me too death should seize P 
Thea well at once were ended poor Ejiemhild's miseries." 

1089. 
The people of the dty went home as darkness fdl ; 
The priests and monks attendant, and all the train, who weU 
Had serr'd the champion living, fair Kriemhild begg'd to stay. 
Their night was fiJl of sorrow, of dreonment their day. 

1090. 
Muiy of the woeful mourners nor meat nor drink would taste. 
But for all soch as needed at hand was ready plac'd 
Good store of each provision ; this Siegmund took in hand. 
There mickle toil awaited the Nibelungors' band. 



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186 flETXHTBEKIH ASTXHTDSB. 

1091, 

For three whole days togetlier, as we have hewd men say, 
Wlioe'er had Bkill in dnging, on them hard labour lay. 
Sore were their hearts afOicted, as for the soul they pray'd 
Of that redoubted champion, who there a corpse was laid. 

1092. 
There too tjie poor and needy, who of his own bad nought. 
In hand, by Eriemhild fiunieh'd, a golden offering brought 
From Sieg&ied's proper treasure ; when his body lifeless lay, 
Marks foil many a thoosand for his soul were given away. 

1093. 
Landed rente and revenues she scatter'd wide around, 
"Wlierever sacred convents and holy men were found. 
And to the poor gave silver and clothes in plenteous store. 
She proved by all her actions what love to him she bore. 

1091. 
On the third mom When duly the mass waa to be sung, 
"With country folk all weeping (such grief their bosoms wnmg) 
Tho churchyard of the minster was fill'd from end to end. 
Each wail'd the dead, each sorrow'd as for bis dearest friend. 

1096. 
In four days successive were scattered 'mongat the poor 
Marks some thirty thousand for Siegfried's soul, or more. 
To the good knight such honour his friends desir'd to pay, 
When his life was brought to nothing, and his beauty past away- 

1096. 
The ainging now was over, God had been serv'd as due ; 
Then with o'ermaatering sorrow strove that empassion'd crew. 
Next to the grave they brought him from out the minster near. 
One weeping, one wild Wfuling was then alone to hear. 



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WAS BBVAILES ilSD 
1097. 

Loud shriekiDg, mov'd the people around the beaiera slow; 
JSaae there, nor man nor woman, hut wore one &oe of woe. 
'T waa sung, 't was aaid, aa fitted, ere he in ground was laid. 
Ah ! what good prieeta to Sieg&ied the laat sad dutiea paid ! 

1098. 
Ere to the grave adranciog hia own true lady came, 
Her sense-o'erpowering sorrow so shook, her wasted frame. 
That oft was need to sprinkle her from the cool-springing weU. 
Boundless was her distraction ; the like no tongue cau tell. 

1099. 
*T was strange, such utter anguish dialodg'd not the frail life. 
With eager haste to help her fiock'd many a wuling wife. 
Then spake thequeen, "ye warriors, my murder'd Siegfried's best, 
By your love to ^ur master grant me this last request. 

iioa 

"Let me have one small pleasure 'mid pains so muiifold ; 
The stately head of Sieg&ied I would once more behold." 
She begg'd so long, eo wailM, that less they could not do 
Than force the ooffin open, and give the corpse to view. 

1101. 
So thither they led the lady, where lay the clay-cold dead. 
With ber fine snowy fingers she rais'd his stately head, 
And kisa'd him lifeless lying ; long bending there she stood ; 
Her &ir eyes for anguish wept o'er him tears of blood. 

1102. 
How woeM was their parting ! borne waa she thence away, 
Walk she could no longer ; insensible ahe lay 
Through bitterness of sorrow, so lovely and so still, 
Aa if Death would have smitten, yet wanted heart to kill. 



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188 SETEirTEEITTH ADTSITTrBS. 

1103. 

Wten now the noble champion waa duly laid in ground, 
O'erwhelm'd with boundlera Borrow the valiant chiefe were foond, 
That from the land of ^iblung had come with him erewhile ; 
King Siegmund too thereafter waa seldom seen to smile. 

11(M. 
Many were there among them who made unceasing moan, 
Nor ate nor drank for anguish till three whole days were gone. 
Then hard constraint compell'd them to live against their will, 
And they from grief recovcr'd, aa h^s to thousands still. 

1105. 
In deadly swoon nnconscious the widow'd EjiemhiLd lay, 
Both day and night unalter'd e'en to the second day. 
Nor heard whate'er was spoken, nor mark'd what pasa'darouud; 
In like unheeding sorrow waa eke king Siegmund drown'd. 

1106. 
With pain back to his BenseB retom'd the chiLdlesa chi&f ; 
Shrunk were his powers, and weaken'd through the strong dint 



Nor was there ground for wonder. Then s^d his liegemen near, 
" My lord, best travel homewards \ we must not tarry here." 



EIGHTEENTH ADVENTURE. 
HOW smainnn) BETirBirED houb. 
1107. 
The father-in-law of Eriemhild to the pale mourner went. 
And kindly thus bespake her; "our thoughts are homeward bent; 
Unwelcome guests in Bbineland I ween we needs must be. 
So, Ejiemhild, dearest lady, ride to my land with me. 



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BOW sixoHinrD bxtubtted Eom;. 189 

1108. 
Thou must Bot here dwell helpless amoBg thy foemen left, 
Where hoth of ua of Siegfried foul treason hath bereft. 
I'll guard thee with firm friendship tuid honour uudefil'd 
For love of thy good hnsbaad and of his Boble child. 

1109. 
All power, beloved lady, shall be thine again, 
And, as thy lord intended, royally shalt thou reign. 
The land, the crown, thoa ownedat, then both, as erst shalt sway. 
To thee shall Siegfried's liegemen a willing service pay-" 

1110. 
Forthwith 't was told his followers that they must hence vith 

speed; 
Each straight to the stable hurried for his steed. 
To dwell with deadly foemen scorn and shame they thought ; 
Matrons and maids were stirriiig, and out their vesture sought. 

1111. 
When now the good ting Siegmund ready was to ride. 
Her mother sued to EriemMld among her kin to bide. 
That still her only daughter her aged eyes might see. 
The jc^-bereft made answer, " nay, that can hardly he. 

1112. 
With my eyes could I ever the fawning friend behold, 
Who wrought me, wretched woman, sorrows so muiifold F" 
Then spake the youthful Giselher, " dear sister, why away ? 
Tat love's sake and for duty's, here with thy mother stay. 

1113. 
Who have weigh'd thee down with sorrow and wreak'd on thee 

their hate, 
Of them thou need'st no service ; live from my sole estate." 
She answer'd thus the warrior, " no ! no ! it cannot be. 
Die should I straight of horror, if I should llagan see." 



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190 BiaHTSBNTH ADTBHTUEE. 

1114. 

" Frqm tlut thou mafet be certais Til shield thee, Edater dear. 
With me ehalt thou dwell ever, thy brother OiBelber, 
"Who, if love caji bring comfort, mil thy sad Iobh supply." 
" Ah !" said the heaTeD'foraaken, " of th&t sore need have I." 

lllS. 
Soon aa this gentle proffer the youthful knight had made, 
Kext TTta and good Gemot and their true coudne pray'd 
The joy-deserted mourner among them there to stay. 
" Her kin 'mong SiegMed'e followera were few and fer away." 

1116. 
" To you they all are strangers," said Gemot drawing nigh ; 
" No man there lives so mighty but he muet some time die ; 
Consider this, fair sister, and comfort to you take. 
Here with your friends 't were better your fii'd abode to make." 

1117. 
At last she promis'd Giaelber that she would there abide. 
Meanwhile the knights of Siegmund ready were to ride 
To the Nibelungere' country ; their steeds were led from stall. 
And on the sturdy sumpters was laid their raim^t aU. 

1118. 
The venerable Siegmund went up to Kriemhild then. 
And with these words addrees'd her ; " Lady, Siegfried's men 
Are waiting with the horses ; part must we instantly ; 
It irks me every moment we stay in Burgundy." 

lllfl. 
Then answer'd Lady EJriemhild, " such friends as wish me well 
And bear me love, advise me among them here to dwell, 
Since in the land of Kiblung nor kith nor kin have I." 
Woe was the noble Siegmund at heuing her refdy. 

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HOT BixaHnn) beiubkxo houe. 191 

1120. 
" In this at least," Tetnm'd he, " trust not their offers fair. 
Thou before all my kindred the royal crown shalt wear 
"With the same pride and puissance as ere our joys vere ctoet. 
Nor want of ought remind thee that Sieg&ied we have lost. 

1121. 
Come then, return among us for thy iair in&nf s sake ^ 
Deaert not the young orphan ; a mother's dnty take. 
Wben he grows up to manhood, hell comfort thy sad cheer ; 
Meanwhile good knights shall serre thee, who hdd thy husband 
dear." 

1122. 
S^d she, " my good lord Siegmund, from home I cannot ride. 
Whatever hence befall me, here must I still abide 
Among my proper kinsmen, who'll help me to lAment." 
Her words gave the good warriors sorrow and discontent. 

1123. 
With one accord they anawer'd, " we must in truth confess. 
That never till this moment we felt true bitterness, 
If thou persist to tarry among our foemen here. 
Sure for a peaceful journey knights never paid so dear." 

1124. 
" Hence without thought of danger ride home with God to friend. 
Tour steps a fitting escort shall through thia land attend 
E'en to your native country. Farewell, good knights and true ; 
My dear, my orphan'd in&nt I trust, my friends, to you." 

1125. 
When they perceiv'd for certain that she her purpose kept. 
The warriors of king Siegmund with one accord they w^t. 
With what heart-rending sorrow the reverend Siegmund too 
Parted from lady Kriemhild ! then what was grief he knew. 



192 SiaHTEEHTB ASTEKTrBX. 

1126. 
" Woe worth this dreuy festal 1" the hoary mouarch cHed, 
" To kings nor to their kinsmen shall never more betide 
From merriment and pleasure such heart-deTouiing teen. 
In Burgundy shall Siegmund never more he seen." 

1127. 
Then said and&own'd indignant the knights of Sieg&ied'stiwn 
" Nay, into this same country we well may come again 
To seek and find the tnutor who laid onr master low. 
Among the kin of Siegfried they have many a mortal foe." 

1128. 
Lovingly kiss'd he EjiemhiLd, and sadly thus 'gan say, 
When he could see too clearly that she was fii'd to stay, 
" Now home, bereav'd and joyless, a weaiy way we go. 
*T is only now I'm feeling the fulness of my woe." 

1129. 
They rode without an escort from Worms beyond the Bhine. 
Sorrowful and silent they mov'd in lengthen'd line, 
Nor fea/d asBault or ambush by lurking foemen plann'd ; 
Secure each Nibelunger felt in his own right hand. 

113a 
From all they kq)t disdainful, leave of none they took ; 
GHselber aad Gemot such parting could not brook. 
But lovingly approach'd them ; woe were they for their woe ; 
That for their loss they sorrowed, they gave their guests to know. 

1131. 
Then gently spoke prince Gemot, and heaVd full many a sigh, 
" Gtod in heaven is my witness, nor part nor guilt had I 
In the death of Siegfned, nor had I heard before 
That any bore him malice ; I sorrow for hjm sore." 



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Hov aiEGMurni betubtted home. 193 

1182. 
To them was giTen good escort by Giselher the young. 
Deep-aorTOwing altogether he brought them aafe along, 
Both king and loyal liegemen, home to Xetheiland. 
There met they all their kindred ; amall joy waa in the band. 

113S. 
What happ'd to them thereafter is more than I can e&j. 
At Worms HtiU heard vm Ejiemhild compl^ning, day by day, 
That none her sorrow pitied, or brought her comfort due, 
Save G-iaelher her brother ; he atill waa good and true. 

113*. 
Meanwhile sat misproud Brunhild in haughdnesa uncheck'd ; 
Of Kriemhild'B tears and sorrows her it nothing reck'd. 
She pitied net the mourner ; she atoop'd not to the low. 
Soon Eriemhild took ML vengeance, and woe repaid with woe. 



NINETEENTH ADVENTFEE. 

HOW THE TBEASITBE OT THE BTBELaSCXBa WAB BBOTIOHT 

TO WOBMB. 

1185. 

WhUiE thuB the mourning Kjiemhildremain'dinwidow*datate, 
Count Eckewart upon her did ever constant wait 
With all hia men about him ; he aerv'd her without lail, 
And help'd his weeping lady hie murdered lord to wail. 

1186. 
At Wonna &at by the minater waa frun'd for her to dwell 
A building high and spadous, and thereto iiimish'd well. 
Where aat she joyless ever among her joyless ti^n. 
To church she oft betook her, and there would linger fain. 



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IM unrarxinrTH aoteittubb. 

1187. 
How oft, weigh'd down with borow, (she seldom tniBs'd a day) 
Thither would she go iaintlj where her beloved lay, 
And Ood for grace and mercy npon his booI implore. 
And with true love nn failing beweep him evermore t 

1138. 
Queen Uta and her Udiea to sooth the mourner sought. 
But Btill take could she never the comfort that they brought ; 
The Bting of deadly sorrow had pierc'd her heart too deep ; 
N'or love had she, nor longing, but for her lord to weep. 

1139. 
Such grief as Etiemhild's never wife for her husband knew ; 
Thence might be seen how &ithful her heart was, and how true. 
E'en to her day of dying her life in woe she paas'd. 
She took for her slain Sieg&ied a dread revenge at last. 

1140. 
So afber her bereavement she sat, for three long years 
And half another, ever in sorrow and in tears, 
Nor once spoke word to Gunther, albeit in blood so nigh, 
Nor on her foeman Hagan ever once set eye. 

1141. 
Then said the knight of Trony, " your best attention bend, 
How you may hereafter your sister make your friend. 
So might the wondrona treasure come to this land, 1 ween. 
'T would much bo to your profit, could we appease the queoi," 

1142. 
" "WeTl try," replied king Ghinther, " my brothers with her bide ; 
Perhaps by their persuasion she may be pacified, 
And e'en in our possesaioQ the hoard contented see." 
" I can't believe," said Hagaa, " that that can ever be." 



uri^ibyGoOQlc 



HOW THK TBCASCBB WAS BBOUOHT TO WOBHS. 196 
1143. 

Then to the margrave Gary in haste king Gnnther Bent ; 
Ortwine to court waa summon'd to further their intent, 
And G«mot and young Giselher were both together brought. 
The boon from lady Eriemhild with friendly prayer they sought. 

IIM. 
Then first the good Bu^jundian the v^iant Qernot apake. 
" 3Jady, too long you're wafling for your lost husband's sake. 
Sure proof the king win give you, he ne'er the warrior slew ; 
Why then witii such deep passion his death for ever rue V 

1145. 
Said she, "who chaises Ghmther? 't was Hagan struck the blow ; 
He giun'd from me the secret, where steel could lay him low. 
Could I suspect, that treason lurk'd such &ir words among ? 
Else, be sure, had silence aat ever on my tongue. 

1146. 
Ahl had I ne'er betray'd him, but still hie secret kept, 
I had not now, poor widow t thus lamentably wept. 
Bnt ne'er will I forgive them, who this foul deed have done." 
Then the stout knight, yonng Giselher, to intercede begun. 

1147. 
" Ay," said she, " I must greet him, you press and ui^ me so ; 
The more your Ikolt and folly ; such bitterness of woe 
Hath the king brought upon me with no guilt on my part ; 
My month it may forgive him, bnt never will my heart," 

1148. 
" Matters may mend hereafter," her kin said with one voice, 
" "Wliat if his fotnre kindness should make her yet rejoice ? 
Needs must he," atad good Gemot, " make np for former ill." 
" See 1" said the sorrow-laden, " I'll do whate'er you will. 



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196 KUrETKBnTH AJ)TEST[;BB. 

1149. 
Tea! iTriUgreetkiiigChmther." She scarce had given consent 
When with his best friends Q-untbeF nnto his sister went. 
Tet durst not stem Hagan before the monmer go. 
He knew himself blood-guilty, he had wrought her mortal woe. 

1150. 
When she had pardon'd Chinther all that had pasa'd anuas, 
He thought it fitting kindness the gentle dame to kiss. 
Had he the deed not tounsell'd which oU that ill had wrought, 
With freedom oft and boldness her presence he had sought. 

1161. 
Sure ne'er was reconcilement 'twixt friends too long apart 
By such full tean cemented ; her loss she took to heart, 
Tet all concem'd she pardon'd, all, save only one. 
I^ever had been the murder, if not by Hagaa done. 

1152. 
'T was no long time thereaiter when this device they wrought. 
That from the land of Kiblung should to the Bhine be brought 
By the command of EJTieiahild the wondrons treasure bright ; 
T was her morning-gift at mai-riage and so was her's by right. 

1153. 
For it the youthfid Giselher and eke good Gemot went ; 
Eighty hundred warriors with them their sister sent. 
To bring it from the mountain, where close conceal'd it lay, 
Watch'd by the stout dwarf Albric and bis best friends ahvay. 

1154. 
When now came the Buigundians the precious hoard to take, 
Alhric, the fiiitbiid keeper, thus bis friends bespake. 
". liiiB iar renowned treasure we can't withhold, I ween, 
The mairiage-moming present claim'd by the noble queen. 



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now THE TB^ABUBE WAS BBOITCIHT TO WOUMS. 19? 
1X55. 

Tet should th^ have it never, nor should we thus be cross' d, 
Hod we not the good cloud-clo^ to our miefortuiie lost 
Together with Sir Siegfried, who gaia'd it here of yore ; 
For Eriemhild's noble husband the same at all times wore. 

1156. 
Now ill, alas ! has happ'd it to Siegfried the good knight, 
That fi\)m us the doud-doak he took by conquering might. 
And all this land to serve him as lord and master bound." 
Then went the chamberlain sadly, where soon the keys he found. 

1157. 
And now the men of Elriemhild before the mountain stood, 
And some too of her kinsmen ; the hoard, as best they could, 
Down to the sea they carried ; there in good btu-ks *t waa hid, 
Thence o'er the waves, and lastly up the Bhine convey'd. 

1158. 
The tale of that same treaanre might well jqmt wonder raise ; 
'T waa much as twelve huge waggons in four whole nights 

anddayB 
Could carry from the mounts down to the salt-aea bay, 
If to and fro each waggon thrice joumey'd every day. 

1159. 
It was made up of nothing but precious Btones and gold ; 
Were all the world bought from it, and down the value told, 
Not a mark the less thereafter were left, than eret was scor'd. 
Good reason sure had Hagan to covet such a hoard. 

1160. 
And thereamong was lying the wishing-rod of gold. 
Which whoso could discover, might in subjection bold 
All this wide world as master, with all that dwell therein. 
There came to Worms with Qemot full many of Albric's kin. 



188 iriBETEEBTH ADTEVTirBX. 

1161. 

Wlietk Oemot and ^oimg Giselher had tliua poseeaaiotigaiu'd 
Of that poweivgiviiig treaeuie, the rule the^ straiglit obtain'd 
Of the coimtiy and the castlea and meny a wulike fcnight ; 
AH TUB conatrain'd to Berrethemthroughteiror of their mi^t. 

1162. 
When they had bron^t the treasure themce to king QmithOT's 

land. 
And had theircharge deliTer'd into fair Eriemhild'B hand, 
Ctamm'd were the towers and chambers wherein the aame they 

Btor'd. 
Xe'er told was tale of riches to match this boundless hoard. 

1163. 
Yet had she found the treasure a thousand-fold as great, 
Could she have seen but Sieg&ied reetor'd to life's estate. 
Bare as her hand had Kriemhild pref^rr'd with him to live, 
Benonncing all the puissance which aU that hoard could give. 

1164. 
Now she had gain'd poesession, so liberal wtm the dame, 
That foreign knights unnumber'd into the countiy came. 
All prais'd her generous virtues, and own'd they ne'er had seen 
Lady bo open-handed as this &ir vridow'd queen. 

1165. 
To rich and poor together began she now to give ; 
Thereat obaerv'd Sir Hagan, " if she should chance to live 
Some little season longer, so many should we see 
Won over to her service, that ill for ns *t would be." 

1166. 
Thereto made answer Gunther, " the hoard is her'a alone ; 
How can I check her giving F she gives but &om her own. 
Bcarce could I gain forgiveness for my oSence of old. 
I care not how she scatters her jewels and her ruddy gold." 



HOV TEE TBEASrSS WAS BKOIISHT TO TOKMS. 199 

1167. 

" A prudent man," aaid Hagan, " not fbr a ungle hour 
Would Buch a maas of treasure leave in a woman's power. 
She'll hatch with all thia largesH to her outlandiBh crew 
Something that hereafter all Buigondy may rue." 

1168. 
Thereto replied king Gimther, "an oath to her I swore, 
That I would ne'er offend her nor harm her any more ; 
And I'm reaalv'd to keep it ; my sister too is she." 
At once Sir Hagan answer'd, " then lay the blame on me." 

1169. 
Too many of the chieftaios their plighted faith forsook ; 
The powerful hoard the peijur'd &om the poor widow took ; 
Sir Hagan straight made seizure at once of every key. 
"When her brother Gemot heard it, bitterly wroth was he. 

1170. 
Thai spake the young Sir Giselher, " Hagan the fierce and rude 
Bath foully wrong'd my sister ; this I should have withstood ; 
But that he is my ViTum i ftTii it should coat his life." 
Then aficeah all vainly wept noble Siegfried's wife. 

1171. 
Then said the good Sir Gemot, " ere this pernicious miae 
Confound us any further, better beneath the Bbine 
Sink it altogether, and tell no mortal where." 
Then aadly went fair Eriemhild to her brother Qiselher. 

1173. 
She wept and stud, "dear brother, pr^ take some thought of me; 
Of my person and possessions thou should'st the guardian be." 
Then spake be to his sister, " I will, whate'er betide. 
Soon ae we come back hither, for now we hence must ride." 



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200 TUIHETEBHTH ADTENTtTBE. 

1173. 

King Gimtlier and his kiiiBmen they forthwith left the land. 
The V;eiy best among them he tooh to form hie band. 
There staj'd behind hut Hagan ; fierce hate and malice still 
He bore the weeping Kriemhild, and sought to work her ill. 

1174. 
Ere back the king came thither, impatient of delay 
Hagan eeiz'd the treaBure, and bore it thence away. 
Into the Bhine at Lochheim the whole at once threw he ! 
Henceforth he thought t' enjoy it, but that was ne'er to be. 

1175. 
He never more could get it for all his rain desire ; 
So fortune oft the traitor cheats of his treason's hire. 
AJone he hop'd to use it as long aa he should live, 
But neither himself could profit, nor to another give. 

1176. 
Once more retum'd the princes, and with them all their train. 
Forthwith began sad Kriemhild her heavy loss to plain 
With ladies and with maidens ; their grief indeed was strong. 
In all good iaith was Gtiselher ready to venge her wrong. 

1177. 
Then said they aU together, "much evil hath he done." 
So for a time Sir Hagui retir'd their wrath to shun, 
Till he regain'd their iavour ; at last th^y look'd it o'er. 
Thereat to him &ir Kriemhild yet deadli^ hatred bore. 

1178. 
Ere thus the knight of Trony had hidd'n the wondrous hoard. 
They all an oath together had sworn with one accord 
To keep it in concealment while one of them should live. 
So none himself could take it, nor to another give. 



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HOW THE TBEASURB WAS BEOUHHT TO 1 



201 



1179. 
With this new weight of anguish eurcharg'd was Kriemliild left, 
Of her bold husband widow'd, and of the hoard bereft 
By Buch o'erweening outrage ; in tears the mourner lay, 
Kor ever ceas'd to sorrow e'en till her dying day, 

1180. 
IVom the death <^ Sieg&ied ibr thirteen years she dwelt 
On her wronga ever brooding, nor joy one moment felt. 
The murder of her husband she could not once foi^et. 
To him she still waa f^thful ; that praise is Ejiemhild's yet. 

1181. 
The wealthy lady Uta, when death took Dancrat hence, 
A sumptuous monastery rais'd at her own eipence, 
Endow'd with rich revenues, which yet its coffere fill ; 
The Abbey of Lorach they coll it ; 'tis high in honour still. 

1182. 
Thereto the mourning Kriemhild no little part supplied 
Both for the sool of Siegfiied and for all souls beside. 
She gave both gold and jewels ; a wife more chaste and true, 
And a more liberal ^ver man surely never knew. 

1183. 
Since Kriemhild had king Oimther once to her grace restor'd. 
And yet by his connivance next lost the precious hoard, 
A thousand fold more sorrow at her heart there lay. 
The proud and high-bom lady would gladly thence away. 

1184. 
Meanwhile for lady TJta waa built with skill and care 
At Lorsch, fast by her abbey, a sumptuous palace lair. 
The widow left her children, and there seclusion found. 
Still Ilea she in her cofSn deep in that hallow'd ground. 



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202 HnrETBEiraH adtentvhe. 

1185. 
Then said the queen to Kriemhild, " liat to me, daughter dear. 
Come to LoTBch, to 1117 ptdace, thou canst not linger here. 
And dwell with me thy mother, and cease to weep and grieve." 
"Towhomthen,"ftnBwer'dKriemhild,"BhallImyhuBbandleavep" 

1186. 
The lady TJta answer'd, " here let him atiU ahide." 
" Now God in hear^i fi>rbid it 1" the feithful wife replied ; 
" No I my beloved mother, I most not hare it so ; 
If Kriemhild hence mofit journey, with her must Siegfried go." 

1187. 
Then gave command the mourner up to take the dead ; 
His noble bonee were forthwith traneferr'd to their last bed 
At Lorsch beside the minster in many-honour'd guise. 
There yet in a long cofGn the stately warrior lies. 

1189. 
Just then, when sorrowing Kriemhild was ready to depart, 
And hop'd with her fond mother to ease her aching heart, 
She yet was forc'd to tany and that last hope resign. 
'Twas caus'd by sudden tidings, that cross'd from J^ the Shine. 



EKS OF THI riBBT f ABT. 



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TWENTIETH ADTENTUEE. 

HOW EUTS ETZEL B£9'T TS10 BDBQDBST TO FBOFOBK FOB 
KBTEHHILD. 

1189. 

'T WAS of yore, in the eeaacm. when dame Helca died, 
And the stout Irin g Etzel would take another bride. 
His fiiends all gare him coauael hia marriage troth to plight 
To » prond Burgundian widow, that lady Eriemhild hight. 

1190. 
His oonrtiere thus, when Helca had Ntded now her life. 
Bespoke him, " would you ever take a noble wife. 
The best with whom a monarch could share his royal state, 
Make choice of this &ir lady ; bold Sieg&ied was her mate." 

1191. 
Then answer'd Btout king Etzel ; " how can succeed the phm, 
For me, that am a heatliraii and not a christen'd man, 
To woo a Christian woman ? never consent wiU she ; 
Sure 't were a Tcry marvel if this could ever be." 

1192. 
Thereto his knights made answer, " what if she yet ccmsent 
Mor'd by your name so glorious and potent regimwt f 
T were well to make the trial whatever thence accrue ; 
For such a fair companion a king might gladly sue." 

1193. 
The noble king then questicm'd, " who among you knows 
The people and the country where Bhine's £dr current flows P" 
Sud Eudeger of Bechlaren, " for that trust me alone ; 
I from earliest childhood the noble kings have known 



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SOi TWXNTrETH ASTESTrBE. 

1194. 
Qimther and Oeniot, good knights as e'er can be ; 
The third is the young Giaelher ; each of the brethren three 
Does all, whereby dear honour and high repute are won. 
Just as their brave forefathers down to our times have doue." 

1195. 
Thereto gftve answer Etzel, " friend, do to me dedaie. 
If she indeed be worthy here the proud crown to wear ; 
And, if she be so lovely as by report is borne, 
My best friends may be certain, they'U have no cause to mourn." 

1196. 
"Pot peerless grace and beauty with Helca she may vie, 
My lady ever-honour'd ; saw yet never eye 
In all this world a fiurer ; she's of all queens the best ; 
The lord of such a lady must be supremely bleat." 

1197. 
" Then, as thou lov'st me, Bud^er, go, court her for my bride. 
And if I should come ever to lie by Kriemhild'a aide, 
Assure thee, to my utmost I will thy paina requite ; 
Well thou hast ever serv'd me, and done my will aright. 

1198. 
Out of my treasure-chamber whate'er thou wilt I'll give, 
That thou and thy companions merrily may live. 
dothes, horses, all thou needest, I'll willingly defray. 
Of such make full provieion, and speed thee on thy way." 

1199. 
Thereto in answer Budeger the wealthy margrave spake, 
"Surely 't would ill beseem me ought from thy stores to take. 
Fain will I bear thy message to the Bhenish brethren bold 
From my own rich possessions, that of thee I have and hold." 



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HOW Kma BTZEL PB0P03XD FOB KBIBHHILD. 205 



1200. 
Then ^&ke tke mighty monnirch, " now when will yon ride 
To aeek my love and ]aiy P Gkid be your guard and guide, 
And keep you both in Bofety through all the paths you trace. 
And fortune speed my wooing, that I may win my lady's grace.' ' 

1201. 
Then Budeger made answer, " ere this land we quit. 
With weapons and with raiment our band we oat must fit, 
That we before the princes in splendour due may shino. 
Five hondred stately warriors I'll lead unto the Eliine ; 



That, when the stout Buigundians me and mine shall see. 

It by all beholders at once coufess'd shall be. 

That ne'er dispatch'd a monarch, on distant wooing bent, 

A band more choice and numeroua than thou to Bhine haat sent. 

1203. 
And, noble king, remember whom thou detnr'et to wed ; 
The first of martial champions. Sir Siegfried, ahar'd her bed, 
The son of royal Siegmund ; thon hast seen him here before ; 
From all, the highest honours, and well deserr'd, he bore." 

1201. 
Then replied king Btzel, " if she was Siegfried's wife. 
So honour'd was her husband, while he was yet in life, 
That at my handa his consort will meet true lore and care. 
Heaven grant, that I may find her as gracious as she's fair !" 

1205. 
Then apake the noble margrave, " thus then at once I say, 
We'll fix for our departure the four and twentieth day. 
Straight to my dear wife Gotelind I'll send to let her know. 
That on this quest for Eriemhild I must in person go." 



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206 TWBlfTIETH ADTENTUm. 

1206. 
Budeger to Bechlaren bad a courier i^teed amain ; 
The margraTUie hia mesBHge fiU'd both with joy and pain. 
He told her he was going for the king to woo ; 
¥tuT Helca she remember' d with tender h>Te and true. 

1207. 
Glad \raa she &om her husband auch tidings to receive. 
And yet in part she eorrow'd ; ehe could not choose bat grierre^ 
In doubt to find a mistresB bo graciouB ae before. 
And when she thought on Helca, her very heart was Bore. 

120S. 
Seven days Sir Bndeger in Hungary abode ; 
Well ideae'd was stout king Etzel when forth his envoy rode. 
In the city of Viraina waa OTder'd all their weed. 
The margtare would not tarry, but ever on would speed. 

1209. 
ffight gladly at BecdilareQ he and hie men were aeen ; 
Him waited there dame Gotelind, and the young maigrsTine 
Badeger'a gentie daughter, and many a noble dame 
Was there with fitting welcome as home the warriors came. 

1210. 
Ere the noble Bud^:er to Bechlaren took his way 
From the dty of Vienna, the raiment rich and gay 
Had safe arriT'd to meet them, foU many a aumpter'a toad ; 
So strong they march'd, tl^t little was rabb'd upon the road. 

1211. 
"When they came to Bechlaren, to his companions brare 
A warm and hearty welcome, the host, as fitted, gave. 
And in commodious chambers lodg'd them aU and some. 
Same Gotelind the wealthy rejoic'd to see him come. 



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HOW Ema XTZBL FBOPOSED FOR CKIBMHILS. 207 

1212. 
And BO did his dear daughter, the lair young mai-gravine. 
Never were guests bo welcome as these to her, I ween. 
The chiefs that came from Hungary how gladly she survey'd ! 
Then thus with smiling aspect spake the nohle maid. 

1213. 
"Welcome home, dear father, welcome thy comrades too !" 
Fair thanks were paid the damsel by all that knightly crew, 
As them and her befitted, for her reception kind. 
Well to lady Gotelind was known her husband's mind. 

1214. 
Ab by the side of Biideger that night awake she lay, 
Thus in soft accents asking the margraTine 'gan say, 
" "Whither have you been order'd by the king of Hungary ?" 
Said hei, " my lady Gotelind, I'U tell you willingly. 

1215. 
Our kii^ again would marry now that fair Helca's dead, 
And I must go a wooing in royal Etzel's stead. 
To ask the hand of EriemhQd hence to the Bhine I ride. 
Here will she rule as lady with queenly power and pride." 

1216. 
" God grant it t" answer'd Gotelind, " so 't wiU be surely best. 
We hear her praise and honour by erery tongue confess'd. 
She'll be to us hereafter what Helca was whilere. 
We the proud crown of Hungary may gladly see her wear," 

1217. 
Then said the noble margrave, " lore and lady mine, 
To the good knights, that with me prick hence unto the Bhine, 
Give friendly gifts in plenty from oar abundant store. 
Fur robes and rich equipments the bold embolden more." 



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208 tWEKTlE'nl ADTESTUBE. 

1218. 

" "WTioe'er will take a present," she anBwer'd, " not a guest 
Shall go by me imguerdon'd of what may suit him beat. 
Whoever poor dismoonted, rich shall return to selle." 
Thereto replied the margrave, " your words content me well." 

1219. 
Ah I what rich atuffs the warriors then &om her chamber bore ! 
'Mongthe good knights were mantles shar'd out in copious store, 
!Each with the patient needle well sewn from throat to spur. 
Therefrom whatever pleas'd him chose out Sir Budeger. 

1220. 
'T waa on the seventh fair moming that from Bechlaren rode 
The host and hia companions ; they through Bavaria yode 
With store of arms and raiment, yet such was their raray, 
That robbera rarely ventur'd to assail them on their way. 

1221. 
Within twelve days of journey by Bhine they drew the rein. 
The news of their arrival no secret could remain. 
To the king and his liegemen at once the tidings ran. 
That Qome were certain strangers ; the host to ask began, 

1222. 
Jf they were known to any ; who knew, should say so straiglit, 
'T wes seen their sturdy sumpters bore many a heavy weight ; 
So, that they were wealthy, each took at once for known. 
Forthwith were they to chambers in the wide city shown. 

1223. 
Since no man knew the straitigers who to the land were come, 
Narrowly was each chieftain observ'd by all and some. 
They wonder'd wherefore came they,and from what distant coast. 
The same of stout Sir fJaffyr} emqtat'i the anxious host. 



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HOW SISa ETZEl FBOPOBEII FOB K^rCMIIILI). 209 

1224. 
Then said the knight of Trcmy, " I have not seen them yet ; 
I can inform yon better when I and they have met. 
Whatever be their country, how fer aoe'er it be, 
They must indeed be strangere, if they're unknown to me." 

1225. 
N'ow were in fitting chambers bestow'd the noble guests. 
The margrave taid his comrades all donn'd their choiceet Teats, 
And rode to court attended ; all gaz'd on them their fill ; 
Bight gorgeous was their raiment, and cut with curious skill. 

1226. 
Straight cried the nimble Hagan, " if I conjecture right, 
(Though now 't is many a summer since last I saw the knight) 
So moves yon gallant squadron, that we must needs have here 
The mighty Hunnish miUgraTe redoubted Budeger." 

. 1227. 
" Nay ! how can I believe it," said Gunther instantly, 
" That he of Bechelaren has come to Burgundy 9" 
The king had scarce well ended, when they had drawn so nigh, 
That Hagan could for certain good Eiuleger descry. 

1228. 
He and his friends ran forward, and flock'd the guests around. 
Five hundred knights together sprung &bm horse to ground. 
The valiant chiefs of Hungary were welcom'd o'er and o'er. 
Messengers yet never such goodly raiment wore. 

1229. 
Then the stout knight of Trony spoke these fair words aloud, 
"Kow in God's name welcome all ye champions proud, 
The lord of Bechelaren and his followers bold." 
The warlike Huns were greeted with honours manifold. 



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SIO TwiirrTZTH asteittubk. 

1280. 
King Gontlier'B nesaeat Idnameii to aee them forward presa'd. 
Ortwine of Metz ttiiB friendly Sir Budeger addfeaa'd, 
" We ne'er have aeeu ao gladly on any former day 
Gueata in the bonnds of Bhineland ; thia can I truly aay." 

1231. 
Much tbanka for their fiur welcome retuni'd the waiFriora all. 
Thence forthwith stepp'd they forward into the spacious hall, 
Where the king was seated amidst hia chivaliy. 
He roae aa in they enter'd, soch waa hia courteay. 

1382. 
With what kind condeBcenaian to the measengera he went 1 
Gimther and Gemot welcom'd with friendly warm intent 
Their guest and his companions, and made them fitting cheer. 
By the hand then took king Gunther the noble Budeger. 

1233. 
To the seat he brought him wherecm himaelf he aat. 
Then bad he hand the Btrangers (a joyiiil task was that) 
Cups of his best metheglin and of the choicest wine 
That e' er was made &omTineyarda in the land all round the Bhine. 

123JI. 
Giselhei and Gary had both arriT'd at court, 
Dankwairt too and folker had heard the ^ad report 
Of fiuch &ur guests come thither ; before the king tfa^ stood, 
And joyously saluted the noble knights and good. 

1236. 
Then to hia lard Sir Hagan the knight of Trony spake, 
" These chiefs to Gotelind's husband a fit return ahould make 
For all the friendly service he did to us of yore. 
We ahouhl at fiill requite him, acd love him still the more." 



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HOW sma iTZSL fbopobeo roB kbixuhild. 211 

1286. 
Then thus began king Gnnther, " this now I needs must aek 
How are they both who sent you (to tell me be your taak) 
King Etzel and queen Hdcawho reign in Hungary P" 
The noble margrave anewer'd, " ITl tell you willingly." 

1387. 
Then from his seat the warrior uprose with all his train. 
And thus bespoke king Chmther ; " if you, Sir King, are fain 
To grant me gradons audience, nothing will I withhold. 
The message, that I bring you, it shall be freely told." 

1288. 
Said he, " whate'er the message that Etzel by you sends, 
I give you leave to speak it without consulting friends. 
At once then let me hear it, and these my comrades too. 
All power you have with honour your busineBB here to do," 

1239. 
Then spake the noble envoy, " my mighty sovran sends 
His love mncere and service to you and all your friends 
Here in distant Bhineland, and I in honour bring 
A tme and bithful greeting {rom a true and &ithM king. 

1240, 
The noble king entreats you his sorrow to deplore ; 
His TSBsals all are mourning ; my lady is no more, 
Helca the &ir and virtuous, who shar'd his n^al bed. 
Many a young maid is orphaa'd now the good queen ia dead. 

1241. 
Children of m)ble princes she train'd with fostering care ; 
"Whom have they now, so truly a mother's charge to bear ? 
The land is all in sorrow, the king aai nought but p1^ ; 
'T will be kmg time, I fear me, ere he be blithe agun." 



212 TWZIITIETn ASTimtrBK. 

1242. 
" Now heaven him quit," said Gunther, "that with so fiur intent 
To me and mine bo distant hia service he hath sent. 
I take his greeting kindly ; henceibrtb, as best they may. 
My kinsmen and my serrantfl hie iavour shall repay." 

1213. 
Then spake the hold Bui^undian, Oemot the stoat and true, 
"The death of &ir queen Helca the world may ever me. 
Beauty and vorth together are buried in her grave." 
To the words of Sir Gemot assent Sir Hagan gave. 

1244. 
Thereon the high-bom envoy his message fi«ely told, 
" Ejng, aince you have permitted, I'll to your ears unfold, 
"Wherefore my royal master me to your court has sent, 
Flung'd as he is in sorrow and doleful dreariment. 

1245. 
It has been told my master, Sir Siegfried now is dead. 
And Kriemhild left a widow ; if thus they both have sped, 
Would you but permit her, she the crown shall wear 
Before the knights of Etzel ; this bids me my good lord declare." 

1246. 
Thereto the kii^g made answer with courteous kind intent, 
" She win perform my pleasure if she to this consent. 
"Within three days I'll tell you whether her mind he so. 
How emi I promise Etzel, till first her wiU I know ?" 

1247. 
Meanwhile the guests were feasted and fumish'd with the best. 
And all so well entreated, that Sudeger confess'd 
That unong Gunther's vassals true friends he sure had won. 
With zeal him serv'd Sir Hagau, as he once to him had done. 



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HOW Euro XTZKI PBOPOBED FOB KBIEMHILD. 213 

1248. 
So to the third day reeted Sir Budeger and hie crew. 
Meanwhile the king took counael ('t was wisdom bo to do), 
And aak'd, what thought hie kinamen, if 't were a fitting thing, 
That EJiemhild for her husband should take the noble king. 

1249. 
All with one voice advia'd it ; Hagui alone said nay ; 
Then to the bold knight Qunther thua 'gnu the wairior Bay ; 
" If you are in your senBes, bewM« what I foresee. 
E'en with consent of Ejiemhild ne'er let thia marriage be." 

1250. 
"Wherefore," retum'dking Gunther, "should I oppose her willP 
Whate'er may please &ir Kriemhild, I'll grant it freely still. 
Eemember, she's my sister ; let her this crown obtain. 
Ourselves should seek th' alliance, if honour thence she gain." 

1251. 
Thereto replied Sir Hagan, " let thia no fiirther go ; 
If you knew king Etzel as I king Etzel know, 
Tou ne'er would let him wed her as now I hear you Bay, 
But rather look for ruin firom this same marriage day." 

1252. 
" What should I fear ?" said Ghmther, " safe can I keep me atill. 
I dwell &om him so distant, be ne'er can work me ilL 
E'en though he wed my siater, I'll never come him nigh." 
Once more rejoin'd Sir Hagan, " this ne'er advise will I." 

1253. 
For Gemot and youi^ Oiselher in haste king Ghmther sent. 
To learn of both the brethren whether they were content 
That their &ir taster Kriemhild should be king Etzel's bride. 
Still gainsaid Sir Hag^ and not a soul beside. 



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214 TWENTIETH ABTIHTUBS. 

1254. 

^en spake tbe bold BargiandiAn, GiBelher tlie good knight , 
" Now may yon, friend Hagan, do vbat is jnst and right. 
Make hex fiill atonement, whom yon h&Te caufi'd each pain. 
Nor of the gift of ftntnne derive her once again. 

1266. 
Yes, you have coit my aiater bo muiy a bitter tear," 
Tbos farther spoke the wairior redoubted Qiselher, 
" That she haa canae to hate yon ; this must yourself confess, 
For ne'er by man Was woman apoil'd of such h^piness." 

1256. 
" What I foresee for certain, that give I you to know. 
If she but wed king Etzel and to hia country go, 
Some way she'll woi^ us miacbief^ and briag revenge to bear. 
She'll have. aLat her service many a good warrior there." 

1257. 
Thereto the bold Sir Gemot thus in answer said, 
" All then may rest in quiet e'en till they both are dead. 
For wherefore should we erer set foot on Etzel's ground P 
But yet to serve her truly we're all in honour bound." 

1268. 
Thereto thus tmswer'd Hagnn, " for that 1 little care ; 
Let but fbe noble Eriembild the crown of Helca wear, 
Howe'er ehe plot our ruin, 't will sure and sudden fall. 
So let altme this matter ; 't were better so for all" 

1259. 
Then spake in wrath Sir Giselher, &ir XJt&'a youngest wm, 
" We must not sure like traitors demean us every one. 
Her good should make ua h^py, her hopes we should fulfilL 
Howe'er you murmur, Hagan, I'll serve her truly ttilL" 



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HOW Klira BTKSL PBOPOBID FOS KBLEHHILD. 215 

1260. 
Ill pleas'd thereat was Hagao, and darkly frcntning stood. 
G«rnot straight and Giselher, tlie noble kiughta and good. 
And the rich king Gimther in this conclusion met, 
T' assent, if Kriemhild wish'd it, and all ill wiU forget. 

1261. 
" I'll go and tell my lady," said Gfniy there in place, 
" That Ibrthwith to Mug Etzel she may accord her gmoe. 
He holds such conntless warriors beneath his aweful sway ; 
FuU well may he requite her for maay a su)Uni:M 3af." 

1262. 
Swift went the chief to Kiiemhild, Suiting for her sake ; 
Gladly she receiv'd him ; how quickly tiien he spake ! 
" Well may you greet me, lady ; my newsman's guerdon give ; 
You and youz woes aie parted — henceforth with pleasure live. 

1263. 
One of the mightiest mooan^ that ever sceptre bore 
Of iar-ckztended kingdoms, or crown imperial wore, 
N'oT for your love is Buing ; noble knights, his friends, 
Are hither come to woo you ; this news your brother sends." 

1264. 
Then spake the soTTDw-laden, " Now Grod in heaven fbrfeod 
That you, or any other that calls himself my Mend, 
Should mock a lone^ widow I Who once has goin'd the free 
And virgin love of woman, how can he think of me ?" 

1365. 
Firmly she made denial ; together came to her 
Kext her two fiiithful brethren, Gemot and Qiselher. 
With loving words they cheer* d her, and kindly ui^d her too 
Tt> take the king for husband ; right well she thus would do. 



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216 TVZKTIETH ASYXNTUBE. 

1266. 

Yet could not aU persmieioD the fiuthful moomer bring 
To cliooBe a Becond lover, and yield unto the king. 
Then begg'd the noble warriors, " if nothing more can be. 
Consent at lesat a moment the mesBengers to see." 

1267. 
" I'll not deny," soft sighing the noble dame replied, 
" But that I'd fain see Budeger renown'd so &r and wide 
For all his many virtues ; 't is due to him alone ; 
Were 't any other ^ivoy, to him I'd ne'er be known. 

1268. 
So beg him," smd she further, " to let me see him here 
In my bower to-morrow ; then I'll acquaint his ear 
Myself with all my wishes and tell ^™ all my tale." 
Then bitterly began she once more to weep and wul. 

1269. 
Nothing the noble Budeger had more desi^d, I ween. 
Than to obtain an audience of that lair widow'd queen. 
Such he well knew hia wisdom and smooth persuasive skill, 
He doubted not, to reason he'd bend her stubborn will. 

1270. 
So early on the morrow, about the matin song, 
Forth come the noble envoys ; there was a mighty throng ; 
To court with the good mai^rave there went a gorgeous crowd. 
In glittering weed accoutred, of high-born knigbta and proud. 

1271. 
Kriemluld, the &ir, the spotless, amidst her ladies stood, 
Waiting for Sir Eudeger the noble envoy good. 
He found her in the vesture that every day she wore ; 
Her dames stood by in raiment all work'd and broidcr'd o'er. 



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HOW KniG ETZSL FKOFOBBD TOB ESIEICHILJ). 217 

1272. 

To the door to meet him with stately step she went, 
And well and warmly^ welcom'd the chief from Etzel sent, 
lileveii good knights were with him, himself the twelfth was there. 
Ne'er came Buch high-born suitors to woo a queen so bir. 

1273. 
They bad the chief be seated, and with him all his hand. 
There the two noble margraTes were seen before her stand, 
Eckewart and Gary ; none there was bhthe or glad ; 
All wore one face of mourning, e'en aa their lady sad. 

1274. 
Before her meekly seated many a lair maid was seen. 
Pale sorrowful companions of that woe-wither'd queen. 
The doth, that veil'd her bosom, with scalding tears was wet. 
"Well saw the noble margrave, her grief was lively yet. 

127S. 
Then spake the high-bom envoy, " lair child of mightieBt kings' 
To me and to my comrades after our wanderings 
Vouchsafe now your permission before you hero to stand, 
And tell what brought us hither from our far-distant land." 

1276. 
" Now take my full pennisaion," tie queen said with a sigh, 
" And Bpeat your wishes freely j not ill inclin'd am I 
To hear you, honour'd margrave ! you are an envoy good." 
Thereby her firm reluctance the rest well understood. 

1277. 
Then the pnnce of Bechlaren, Sir Eudeger, thus spake, 
" The mighty monarch Etzel, lady I for your fair sake 
Has bidd'n me journey hither, and many a good knight too 
Has seat with me to Bhineland all for your hand to sue. 



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218 TTZKnSTH ASTEHrrBI. 

1378. 

Tme loye to 70U he proffen, ^easuie nninix'd with pain, 

A firm nnawermig fiiendship, tltat Bhall to death retnun ; 

.Such love he here dome Helca ; deep in hia heart she lay ; 

He DOW for her lost Tiituea leads minj a joyless daj." 
1279. 

Then thm the qaeem made answer, " MargraTe Budeger, 

If jDSa conld feel my sorrows, no suit would vex my ear, 

Again to take a hnsband, and be again undone. 
More have I lost already than woman ever won." 

1280. 
" What mwe amends for anguish," the warrior answer'd \aaA, 
" Than faithful love unchanging, could one the UesBing find. 
Choosing the heart's beloved and choosing not amisB F 
For life-ccauuning sorrow what sweeter balm than this F 

1281. 
To hive my noble master should you oonsenting deign, 
You o'er twelve mighty Mngdoma a crowned queen ahall reign. 
And more than thirty princedoms he at your feet will lay. 
Won by his matchless puissance in many a bloody fray. 

1282. 
To you, besides, obedience many a good knight shaJl do, 
That to my lady Helca were wont to serve and sue. 
And all the dames and damseb, that once Bwell'd Helca'a state, 
Daught«ra of high-bom princes, shall now oq Eriemhild wait. 

1288. 
Thereto my lord will give you (tjiis bad he me declare). 
If you vouchsafe beside him the queenly crown to wear. 
The highest rights and honours that once were Helca's due ; 
AU these before hia liegemen shall be tranafeiT'd to you." 



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HOW KISa £TZIL PBOPOSKD TOB EUEUHILD. 219 

1281. 

" How can I feel contented," the mouming queen reidied, 
" To wed fiDother hero, a widow and n bride P 
Onm Death in one already has wounded me bo sore, 
That nought can now await me, but Borrow eTermore." 

1286. 
" Fair queen," the Huns made answer, " if only you Consent, 
Tour days will with king Etzel bo royally be spent, 
Thalb each wiU, ae it paBBes, some varied pleaBure bring ; 
Such store of courtly warriorB has our redoubted king. 

1286. 
Tt^ther Helca'a damaela and your fair maida will vie 
In zeal to do you Berrice, one blooming company ; 
Qood knights will there be merry amid so bright a train; 
Be well adyis'd, high kdy I in Booth 't will be your gain," 

1287. 
"Well," said she soft and conrteoiia,"thiH conyerBO now give o'er 
Until to-morrow morning, then hither come once more. 
And then your monarch's meBsage I'll answer as I may." 
The high-desoended warriorB could not but obey. 

128S. 
So to their aerenil chambers the lo% strangeni went. 
Str^ht to her brother Giaelher the noble lady sent, 
And eke to her good mother ; to both then 'gan ahe say. 
That nothing now became her but to weep her liie away. 

1289. 
Then spake her brother GKselher, " aieter, I have been told, 
And I would &in believe it, that all thy grieia of old 
Etzel wiU turn to joyance if thou vrith him wilt dwell. 
Whatever others counsel, I like &aa marriage well. 



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220 twekthth advkbtuhe, 

1290. 
Thee vill he sure," he added, " for all the part repay, 
For there reigns ne'er a monarch of Huch redoubted sway 
From Bhone to Bhine, believe me, from tV Elbe to the Bait sea. 
With such a king for husband iieedi must thou happy be." 

1291. 
" Ah I why," said ahe, " dear brother, advise me to my bale ? 
Sure it befits me better ever to weep and waiL 
How could I ever venture to yonder court to go P 
If I once had beauty, 't is wither'd all with woe." 

1292. 
Thereat to her dear daughter the lady TTta spake, 
" Give ear unto thy brethren, dear child, their coimBel take ; 
Do what thy fiiends advise thee, 't will to thy profit be. 
Thy never-ending sorrow it has griet'd my heart to see." 

1293. 
Full oft she God entreated, nor ceas'd for wealth to pray. 
That she might give to others gold, silver, garments gay. 
As erat, ere noble Siegfried her warlike lord vras slain. 
Yet never liv'd the mourner such happy hours again. 

1294. 
Then to herself thus thought she, " how can I Etzel wed F 
I, a Christian woman, share a heathen's bed P 
Throughout the world dishonour would surely be my due. 
N'o — not for all his kingdoms thus could I ever do." 

1295. 
So let she rest the matter. All night till break of day 
With troublous thoughts companion'd on her weary couchshelsy, 
Not ceas'd the tears a moment from her fair eyes to flow, 
Till ewlf dawn to matins bad the pale mourner go. 



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HOW Xnte ETZSI pkoposed fok kbixuhild. 



Just at moBB time retoming the kings her brethren came ; 
To their reluctant sister their suit was still the same ; 
To wed the king of Hungary they urg*!] her o'er and o'er, 
But not a «Ut more yielding they found her than before. 

1297. 
Then summon'd were the warriors that came on Etzel's part ; 
They sought a Ikrewell audience ere they should home depart, 
SucceBBflil or auccessIesB, Bs it might chance to lall. 
To court straight came Sir Budeger and his valiant comrades bIL 

1298. 
These press'd their noble leader ever by the way 
To learn the mind of Gnnther, and that without delay, 
For they had far to travel back to their homes, they said. 
Straight was good Sir Kudeger to Eriemhild'a presence led. 

1299. 
With soft persnaure accents the knight began to pray 
The fair and high-bom lady, that she to him would say. 
What answer to king Etzel she to return would deign. 
Nought, ween T, but denial he from her lips could gain. 

1300. 
" She'd take no second husband, love she could feel for none." 
"Nay," said the noble margrave, " that were unwisely done. 
Why such surpassing beauty waste in a mourning bed F 
'T would sure be to your honour a lovinig lord to wed." 

1301. 
In vain they ber entreated, in vain to her they pray'd, 
Till to the queen the margrave this secret promiae made, 
" He'd fiill amends procure her for past or foture ill." 
Those words her etorm-tost bosom had power in part to still. 



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222 TWEHTIETH ABTXlTTTrBE. 

1802. 

Then spoke he to the princesB; "ceaae now to weep and moan; 
Among the Euhb to Mend you had yon but me alone, 
And my fearleaa Tafoals, and eke my kmrnnen true, 
No one should work you mischief but he shonld dearly rue." 

1308. 
That Btill the more attemper'd her coy reluctant mood. 
"Swear then, whoe'er may wrong me," the lofty dame puraued, 
" You will be first aud foremost revenge on him to take." 
" Pain will I," said the msrgtme, " high lady, for your sake." 

1804. 
Then swore to her Sir Budeger and all his knightly train 
To serve her ever truly, and all her rights maintain, 
Xor e'er of her duo honours scant her in Etzel's land. 
Thereto gave the good toargrave th' aasuiance of his hand. 

130^. 
Then thought the &ith&I mourner, "with such a host of fiiends, 
Now the poor lonely widow may woi^ her secret ends, 
Nor care for what refleziona the worid on her may cast. 
What if my lost bdoved I may revenge at last ?" 

1806. 
Thought she, " the balls of Etzel such countless heroes fill. 
That I, if I Bbould mle them, may do whate'er I will. 
Besides, the king's so wealthy, to give I shall hare store, 
Aa though injurious Hagan bad robb'd me ne'er before." 

1807. 
Bo thus she spake to Budeger, " if I only knew 
That he was not a heathen, I'd go, and gladly too. 
Wherever he requested, and be his foitbfal bride." 
" Nay, lady," said the mai^rave, " such scruples cast aside. 



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HOW Sma STZEL FB0PO8BS TOB EBIEMHILI). 223 

1308. 
He ia not quite a heathen, thia take for truth you may ; 
My good lord vbb converted, as I have heard him say. 
And then the Mth abandon'd he had awhile profees'd. 
This, if you love him, lady, may be with ease redresB'd. 

1309. 
Of Christian bith moreover so many knights has he, 
That at his court you'll ever be blithe and sorrow-free. 
Perhaps, if you desire it, be may be christen'd too. 
!For tbia then scorn not Dtzel, nor let him vainly woo." 

1310. 
Soon as ceas'd the margrave, once more her brethren sued, 
" 0rant ua this favour, aiBter, cheer up thy moumM mood." 
So long they begg'd and pray'd her, that in the end they sped, 
And, sighing soft, she promis'd that she would Etzel wed, 

1311. 
She said, " you will I follow, poor, widow'd, lonely queen ! 
I'll to the Huns betake me, and here no more be seen. 
If I've but Mends to guide me hence to king Etzel's land." 
Thereto before the heroes fair KriemMfd gave her band. 

1312. 
Then spake the noble margrave, " if you have but two men, 
I have more to join them ; 't were well advised then 
Over the Bbiue to bring you attended honourably ; 
Tou must not, lady, longer tarry here in Burgundy. 

1313. 
Men have I five hundred, and kinsmen not a few. 
All at your service, lady, both here and yonder too. 
Whatever you command them ; myself will foremost be ; 
If ought you will henceforward, speak but the word to me. 



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224 TWEmTETH ASTETTTUBE. 

1314. 
Now bid your steeda be saddled, fair dame, and quickly too 
(Ne'er shall Bndeger'B couneelfi give you cause to rue). 
And tell the gentle damsels who bear you company, 
On the Tosd good kinghta will meet ns, the flower of cbiraliy." 

1315. 
Still had they many a trinket, in SiegMed's time nplaid 
To guerdon the beat rider ; thus could she many a maid 
Lead forth in fitting splendour, when hence to fiire she sought ; 
Ah ! what goodly saddles fbr the iair dames were brought i 

1316. 
If ever they had prank'd them in gay appaiel dreas'd, 
Sure for the present journey her maids prepar'd their best ; 
TheyhadheardofEtzel's splendour such t^s as credence mock'd. 
Every chest fiew open, before kept closely lock'd. 

1317. 
They rested not a moment fbr four Whole days and more. 
Forth &om the veiling wr^pera the gorgeous vests they bore. 
EJiemhild her treasure-chamber now to unlock began. 
She bng*d t' enrich the conuades of Budeger, every man. 

1318. 
Gold had she yet remaining &om the Nibelungers' land ; 
All wish'd she to tV Hungarians to give with lavish hmd ; 
Sturdy mules a hundred could not have borne the same. 
But the tale of this huge treasure to th' ear of Hagan cune. 

1319. 
Said he, " she'll ne'er forgive me, that need I not be told ; 
So safe with us Burgundians shall stay Sir Siegfried's gold. 
Why should I let such treasure to deadly foes accrue P 
I know full well what Kriemhild with all this wealth will do. 



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HOW SISQ ETZEL FBOPOSED FOK ERIEUHILD. 225 

1320. 

If once she hence could fetch it, I guesB her whole intent ; 
I doubt not, every fiirthing would to rnj hurt be spent. 
Besides, they have not horses such weight to undergo ; 
So Hagan here will keep it, and that ahall Kriemhild know." 

1321. 
When she heard the tidings, she felt it giierous bale ; 
To the three kings together full soon was told the tale. 
They wish'd they could avert it, but nothing hence enaned. 
Then thus the noble Budeger spoke in right men; mood. 

1322. 
" Bich and noble princess, why sorrow for the gold f 
Let but the eyes of Etzel your peeriess fair behold. 
So much the king adores you (for this on me depend) 
Hell give you tax more treasure than you can ever spend." 

1323. 
Thereto the queen made answer, " right noble Budeger, 
More wealth had never princess in kingdom &r or near. 
Than this outrageous Hagan has foully reft from me." 
Then came her brother Gemot to her chamber hastily. 

1324. 
The king's key in a moment he daeh'd into the door. 
The gold of lady Eriemhild, thirty thousand marks or more. 
Out was laid in order from the secret cell. 
He bad the strangers take it ; that pleas'd king Glunther welL 

1325. 
Then he of Beehelaren, fair Gotelind's husband, spake ; 
" If my lady Kriemhild had power with her to take 
All that &om Niblung's country was ever brought to Bhine, 
Tet touch'd should it be never by her hand or by mine. 



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226 twehtixth adtxbtijbi. 

1326. 
So let it here be tnaear'd, for none of it vill I. 
From home I have hither bron^t such a large supply, 
That on the road fiiU lightly we can with this diapeiiBe, 
So amply are we fumish'd for all the jonmey hence." 

1827. 
Twelve cheats of gold, the choicest that e'er was seen of eye. 
Her maidens had kept ever in close reserre laid by. 
How with them, as they parted, they took the predous load. 
With store of women's tnakets, to serre them on the road. 

1328. 
Still she look'd for violence &om Hagan bad and bold. 
She had yet for pious uses a thousand marks of gold. 
These for the soul of Siegfried, her dearsHt lord, she gave. 
"Her loTe,"thought nobleEndeger,"livese'enbeyondthegraTe." 

1320. 
Then spake again the mourner ; " Where are my friends," said 

she, 
" Who will B life of eiile endure for love of me ? 
They with the banisVd widow to Hungaiy must ride ; 
Let them take of my treasures, and clothes and steeds provide." 

1330. 
Then spake to the sad princess the auoff^me Eckewart, 
" Since of your royal household first I form'd a part, 
I'ye done yon loyal aerrice ; this can I truly say, 
And will the like do ever e'en to my dying day. 

1831. 
Of my men, too, five hundnd to guard you I will lead, 
All at your disposal, fiuthfbl and good at need. 
Us from the side of Kriembild death alone shall part." 
She bow'd to him in silence ; his words went to her heart. 



HOW EIKQ ETBEL PBOPOSBD KIK EBIEUHILD. 227 

1332. 

Then forth wete led their horeea ; ertart must they presently ; 
There tH. around them flot^ing their Mends we^t bitterly. 
Surely did wealthy TTta with her &ir maidens show 
How deeply they lamented that Kriemhild was to go. 

1333. 
A hundred high-bom dameels begirt the parting queen, 
All clad, as weU became them, in robes of glittering sheen. 
FuH many a tear of sorrow from their bright eyes was abed. 
At Etzel's court soon after a joyoua li& they led, 

1884. 
Then in place young OiseUter and Qernot you might view ; 
They came, through lovetoKriemhild, with all their fbllowerstnie. 
On her way the brethren to bring their fditer sought, 
And with them well aoooutt«d a thousand warriorB brought. 

1339. 
Then came the active Gary, Ortwine was present too. 
And there the steward Srumold his duty had to do. 
These found them fitting quarters e'en to the Danube's shore. 
A little from the city rode Oimther, and no more. 

isse. 

Ere from the Bhine for ever &eir eastward st^B they bent, 
They to the Huns b^rehaad swift messengers had sent, 
To tell the stent king Etzel what Budeger had dene, 
, And how he peeiless Eriemhild for his lord hod woo'd and won. 
1337. 
The messengers i^un^d hotly; no time had they to lose;' 
They rode at once for honour and the guerdon of good news. 
When home they brought the tidiugs,aiid all the truth made cieu', 
Word surely nev^ soundeS so sweet in Etzel's ear. 
« 2 

, , ..MOyGOOgIC 



TWENTT-FIBBT ADTESTPEI. 



For joy of such iair tidings the king waa pleaa'd to give 

The meHsengers such presents, that thenceforth each nught live 

Merrily for ever, e'en to ha dying day. 

Through love the king's long sorrow vaniah'd at once away. 



TWENTT-FIE8T ADVENTUBE. 

HOW EBISUSILD BEPABTED. 

1839. 
EsoDGH now of the mesBengers ; we'll tell you, aa we may. 
How the queen through the country went riding on her way, 
And where Oemot and Oiselher, who forth with her had past. 
And aerv'd her well and truly, took leave of her at last. 

1340. 
On rode they to the Danuhe, and Yergen now waa near, 
When leave they took, lamenting, of the queen their sister dear. 
For to the Bhine together they would retrace their road. 
As such nigh kindred parted, many a sad tear there flow'd. 

1341. 
Ab leave took Sir Giselher, to his aigter thus said he, 
" Lady, if hereafter thou e'er have need of me. 
Whatever he thy danger, if thou hut let me know, 
.Straight to the land of Etzel to serve thee will I go.'* 

1342. 
All thoBe, who were her kinsmen, kias'd on her mouth the queen. 
That day a loving farewell 'twizt Eriemhild'e friends was seen 
And the good margrave's vaesalH ; they thence asunder sped. 
The high-born queen right onward mimy a iair maiden led. 



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HOir KBIEMUILD SEPABTED. 229 

1313. 

Firescore and four together, a ricMy-Tested throng^ 

la stuffs of divers colours ; many a buckler strong 

Eollow'd the lovely lady, while muiy a knight of pride. 

At length from her departing, tum'd rein and homeward hied. 

13M. 
Thence down the Btream advancing, they rode Bavaria through ; 
Then all around spread tidings, that with hot haste a crew 
Of strangers on were wming. Where now an abbey stands. 
And where to reach the Danube the swift Inn scours the landa, 

1345. 
There sat in Fassau city a bishop of good report. 
Straight empty was eaeh chamber, and eke the prince's court. 
All were forthwith pri<^ing to Bavmian ground. 
Where the good bishop Filgrin the lady Eriemhild found. 

1316. 
The good knights of the country were not ill pleas' d, I ween, 
To see so many a beauty about the stately quoen. 
With loving looks they courted the maids of lofty race. 
Then led was every stranger to seemly resting-place. 

1347. 
They there at Pledelihgen were lodg'd as best might be. 
On all sides all came flocking the noble guests to see. 
Whome'er they met, were ready alike to give or do 
Whate'er was to their honour, both there and elsewhere too. 

1348. 
With his niece the bishop stndght to Fassau sped. 
Forthwith the merry tidings among the bui^hers spread, 
Eriemhild was thither coming, their prince's sister's child; 
The merchants well receir'd her, the queenly lady nuld. 



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230 TWEKTI-FIBST UtTBHTTBE. 

1S49. 

Much deeir'd the bishop that they awhile would stay ; 
Then said the good Sir Eckewart, " no, we most hence awaj, 
(Howe'er well pleas'd to linger) down to Budeger'i land. 
His Inigbtfl await onr coming, and think us dose at hand." 

1350. 
Already had fiur Gt>telind the joy&l tidings heard ; 
She and her noble daughter quick themeelves bestirr'd. 
She had been advia'd by Budeger, her lord and master dear, 
It seem'd him right and fitting, that, the sad queen to cheer, 

1361. 
She should ride and meet her with his vasBals every one, 
T7p to the Ems advancing, '^ua was no sooner done. 
Than, afoot or in saddle, all together ran ; 
The roads throughout the country were aUre with horse and man. 

18^. 
To Eficrding fiur Kriemhild had now her journey made ; 
Many a Bavarian prickw his hands had gladly laid 
On the costly baggage aa is tbeir custom still. 
And thus the noble travellen would have suSsr'd loss and ill, 

1353. 
But those light^finger'd rovers ibe mai^rare could not brook. 
A thousand knights and better to guard his march he too^ ; 
Thither too his consort &ir Ctotelind had come. 
And in bright array around her his vassals all tuid scHne. 

1361. 
Thence o'er the Traun tliey hasten'd, and forthwith all around 
With tents uid huts bei^iotted the fdain of Ems thciy found. 
There the noble travellwa ihai, night their lodging made. 
The bands oC knights their diarges by Budeger were pud. 



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H07 KBISUHILD SEPAaTBB. ■iSl 

1856. 

No longer in her quarters &ir Ckitelind abode ; 

Many a tranton pal&ey pranc'd in the crowded road, 

Every bridle jingling, and glittering every selle. 

Bight hearty was tbe welcome ; it pleaa'd tke margrave well. 

1366. 
Now on both sides advancing tbe gorgeoos trains drew near. 
Many a good knight between them forth prick'd in full career, 
And waged the mimic battle ; their knl^tly sports, I veen. 
Drew many a damsel's glances, nor irk'd the stately queen. 

1857. 
'When met the noble Btrangera and Budeger's vassals true, 
TTp in the air, loud crashing, many a splinter flew 
Prom the hands of heroes in knightly exercise. 
"Well before the ladies rode they for tbe prize. 

1358. 
Soon was o'er the tourney ; the knights together sped. 
Each friendly greeting other ; then Gkitelind forth was led. 
Her duty to queen Kriembild in bumble guise to pay. 
The skill'd in ladies' Bexvice, scant leisure sure bad tixey. 

1859. 
To meet his wife tbe margrave rode forward &om the queen. 
Not ill pleas'd was surely the noble mai^gravine 
That back &om Ehine so hearty had come her own good knigbt. 
Her long-brooded sorrows vanish' d in debght. 

1360. 
When now had pass'd tbe welcome the loving pair between, 
He bad her with her ladies alight upon the green. 
None then was idle standing among the nobles there ; 
All busily bestirr'd them in the aerrioe ot tbe lair. 



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282 



! ADTEKTVnE. 



1861. 
Soon as the lady Kriemhild beheld the ma^ravine 
There vith the kdiea atauding, rode on a apace the queen ; 
Then Budden check'd her pal&ey (the bit he anawer'd well) 
And inetimt had her aeirBnte lilt her down from aelle. 

1362. 
Then might you see the bishop, already sprung from steed, 
Him tmi good Sir Eckewart, his niece to Ootelind lead. 
All there made way before them as softly on they came. 
Thenonthemouththewandererkiss'dthe good margrave's dame. 

1363. 
Then said the wife of Budeger with tender love and true, 
" Now well is me, dear lady, that one bo &ir as you 
Here at last in our country I with my eyes have seen. 
Ne'er in these times, be certain, bo h^py hare I been." 

1364. 
"Now heaven you quit," said Eriemhild] " for all that yon have 

done. 
Should we live, noble Gotelind, both I tmi Botlnng's son, 
Tou may indeed he thankfiil that you have look'd on me." 
"I was all unknown to either what after was to be. 

1365. 
Courteously one to another went many a blooming mmd ; 
Young knights to yield them service with ready zeal easay'd ; 
So after kindly greeting (though erst unknown 1 ween) 
They soon came Mends together close Bitting on the green. 

1366. 
With wine were serv'd the ladies ; by this 't was height of noon ; 
The noble knights and damsels again were moving soon. 
Thence rode they to a meadow where spacious tents were pight, 
And all within made ready for solace and delight. 



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HOW EBIEMniLS DEFABTED. 233 

1367. 

There through the dark they rested till mom began to smile. 
They of Bechelaren bestirr'd themselves the while, 
For such guests and ao many fittingly to prepare. 
The mai^grave eo had order'd, little was wanting there. 

1368. 
There might you see wide open eveiy window in every wall ; 
The gates of Bechelaren were back thrown one ai^d all ; 
In rode the gueata ; loud ahouted the townsmen least and most ; 
Choice quarters were prepar'd them by the care of the noble host. 

1369. 
Sir Sudeger'a &ir daughter with her maidens w^it 
Wbere the queen she greeted with loving kind intent ; 
There found she too her mother, who had with Kriemhild stay'd. 
Memiwhile to each iair damsel was joyous welcome made. 

1370. 
So either party mingled, and each went hand in hand 
Into a spacious palace with curioua cunning plann'd ; 
Beneath it roll'd the Danube ; there took they all their ease, 
In gentle pastime sitting, &nn'd by the river breeze. 

1371. 
What fiirtheir paes'd among them is more than I can say. 
Sore murmur'dKjiemhild's followers that theymust hence away, 
And leave the pleasant city wh^re such kind Monda abode. 
Ah ! what good wimioTS with them &om Bechelu«n rode ! 

1372. 
To them much loving service the noble maigrave paid ; 
Then to fair Gotelind's daughter the queen a present made ; 
She gave her twelve red armlets, and robes ao richly wrought, 
That with her nothing better to Etzel's land she brought. 



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281 TWXNTI-FIKBT ADTBITTDBB. 

1878. 

Albeit the mmdiouB treaaiire now was her's do more, 
Still, from the Btnall remainder of her once bouucUeBB store, 
Whome'er she uw, her bounty made every one content, 
And now to Bndeger's household right precioua gifts she sent. 

1871. 
In turn, as well befitted her state and lofty line, 
So well dam^ Gotelind treated the strangers &om the Bltine, 
That few were there among them, but &om her copious store 
FredouB etones in plenty or gorgeous raiment bote. 

1875. 
When they their &st bad broken, and ready were to part. 
Then the noble hostess with true and laithfiil heart 
Proffer'd her constant service to Etiel's stately queen. 
Who much careas'd and fondly tlie fiair young margravine. 

1376. 
To the queen said the damsel, " if it seem yon well, 
Of the mind of my &ther this I can truly tell, , 

That he would gladly send me among the Huns to you." 
That the young maidenlov'dher,howweU fair Eriemhild knew! 

1377. 
Their horses now were saddled, and brought beftwe the town. 
Thither the noble Kriemhild came from the castle down, 
And bad fareweU to Ootelind and to her daughtn- dear. 
Many a maid of many a maiden took leave with many a tear. 

1378. 
They look'd on one anoth«' but seldom from that day. 
At Medilick to the strangers were handed on the way 
Kich golden cups, well-fiuihion'd, and thereto, as a sign 
Of free and hearty welcome, fill'd to the brim with wine. 



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HOW EKIXHHILD DXFABIEII. 235 

1879. 

Here held bis ynaj Bbttion a hoet that Astolt hight ; 
f^m him the mad to Austria the trareUera leam'd aright, 
Towards Maotem down the Danube; all anzioua there were Been 
To meet with emIoub serrioe kisg Etzel'a gracious queen. 

1380. 
There lovingly the bishop pari^ed &om his uiece. 
How strongly he advis'd her to live in pj and peace, 
And gain &ir &me and credit as Helca did of yore ! 
Ah ! what high honours thenceforth among the Huns she bore ! 

1381. 
Thence their way to the Traisem the noble strangers mode. 
The men of the good mu-grave all fair attendance pdd. 
Till the HunB to meet them came riding o'er the green. 
Then with royal honours was welcom'd the fair queen. 

1382. 
Fast beside the Traisem the king of Hungary 
FoBsesB'd a ikmouB caatle kept well and warily ; 
It's name was Zeissenmauer ; there Helca once did dwell. 
Displaying such high virtues that none could her excell, 

18S8. 
Save only peerless Kriemhild, who well knew how to give ; 
Sure, after all her sorrows, she might contented live. 
Such crowds of Etzel's warriors were proud on her to wait, 
Adorers of her beauty and vassals of her state. 

1384. 
Wide was the rule of Etzel, and wider his renown ; 
The most redoubted champions from caetle and &om town 
Were at hia court assembled ; together, all and acme. 
Christian knighta and Poinim, they now with him were come. 



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TWEKTr-SlCOfTD ADVEHTCBE. 



"With him at eveiy season was maaj a piowest chief 
Alike of heathen doctrine and of the true belief. 
Whate'er his faith, each wmrior was prompt at Etzel'a call. 
And the king was bo graciouB, he gave enough to all. 



TWENTY-SECOND ADVENTtJEE. 

HOW SHE WAS BECEITED AUONQ THE HUHS. 
1366. 

KsiEMHiLH at Zeiasenmauer remain'd tiQ the fourth day ; 
On the roads, vhOe there she rested, the dust no moment lay. 
It seem'd the land was burning, so amok'd each hoof-beat plain, 
Aa Etzel'a men through Austria came trampling on amain. 

1387. 
When to the monarch's hearing the joyful tidings came, 
How stately through his counti7 rode the Burgundian dame, 
All sorrow in a moment was from his heart effac'd ; 
To meet his love and lady he spurr'd with burning haste. 

1388. 
Good knights of many a region and many a foreign tongue 
Frick'd before king Etzel, that aU the chunpaign rung ; 
Christian and heathen squadrons, careering wide around, 
Advanc'd in dazzling splendour to where the queen they found. 

1889. 
Chiefs &om Greece and Buasia in crowds were there to meet ; 
Folacks and Wallachians there were spurring fleet. 
Each his fiery charger had in due command ; 
Each display'd the customs of his own native land. 



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HOW SHI WAS BECBITED AMONG THE HTTHB. 237 

1390. 

From Kiov cune many a champion, each in iiur array, 
And savage Petchenegers, that ever on their way 
Kept shooting from the saddle at wild birds aa they flew ; 
The arrow-head fall strongly to the bend of the bow they drew. 

1391. 
Fast by the flowing Danube there stands on Austrian ground 
A city that bight Tuloa ; there first fair Ejiemliild found 
Many an outlandish custom, and was with welcome sought 
By many a knight, whom after to doom and death she brought. 

1392. 
Before king Etzd riding his household forward came, 
Four and twenty princes of loftiest birth and name, 
Meny and rich and courtly and glittering all with gold, 
"Wlio kmg'd for nothing better than their lady to behold. 

1393. 
Duke BamuDg of Wdlachia rode trampling o'er the plain ; 
Seven hundred chosen wturiors behind him held the rein ; 
You might see them speeding like wild birds in their flight. 
Thither came prince Gibek with many a squadron bright. 

1394. 
Swift Hombog, with a thousand trampling the duaty green, 
Lefl the side of the monarch, tai gallop'd towards the queen. 
After their country's &shion they shouted shrill and loud. 
Hotly was also ridden by Etzel's kinsmen proud, 

1395. 
Hawart was there of Denmark (a champion told was he). 
And the nimble Iring from falsehood ever free, 
And Imfried of Thuringia, a stem and stately knight. 
These r«ceiT'd &ir Kriemhild with all the pomp they might. 



288 TWXNTT-BECOirD IDT^TTTUItZ. 

1396. 
With men at arms twelve hundred advanc'd they o'er the lea. 
Thither too irom Hongaiy rode on vith thousands three 
Sir Bkadel, Etzel's brothtir, for knightly deeds renown'd ; 
He mor'd witli princely splendour to where the queen he found. 

1397. 
Last the great king Etzel and eke Sir Dietrich came 
With all his brave companioiiB ; there many a kuight of &me 
And proud descent was present, prudent and bold and true. 
High beat the heart of Kriemhild their wide array to view, 

1S98. 
Then to the queen beside him thus spoke Sir Budeger ; 
" Lady, with your permission the king I'U welcome bCTe. 
Whome'er to kiss I bid you, let it straight be done. 
It fits not, such a favour be granted every one." 

1399. 
Straight fiom her sleek palft^ the queen was lifted down ; 
lHo longer dallied Etzel, the king of wide renown ; 
From horse with many a vrarrior he lighted on the green. 
And merrily went forward to meet the noble queen. 

X400. 
Two great and mighty princes, as has to us been told, 
Advanc'd with the iair lady in raiment rich with gold, . 
As the wide-ruling Etsel spproach'd his bride to meet, 
When she deign'd the monarch with a loving kiss to greet. 

1401. 
With that her veil back threw die ; forth beam'd ber rosy hue 
From the gold around it ; mimy were there to view ; 
All own'd dame Helca's beauty scarce with her's oould vie. 
There tiie king's brother ^(sdel close was standing by. 



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HOW 8HB. WAS BECEITED AMOHO THE HTTSS, 289 

1402. 

Him the first kias'd Kriemhild ae bod the margraTe good, 
And next to him king CKbeb ; there too Sir Dietrich etoodp 
Twelve, the chief and noblest, were kiss'd by Etzol's bride. 
With courteous grace she welcom'd many a good knight beside. 

1403. 
All the whUe that Etzel talk'd with hie lady true, 
The young knights were doing as yoang knights now will do. 
They tried their skill in tilting as best they could devise, 
Christian alike and heathen each in his country's guise. 

1404. 
In Dietrich's men bold bearing and knightly you might spy. 
How high above the bucklers they made the splinters fly 
(So mighty was their puiBsance) and deafen'd all the field! 
By the German strangers pierc'd through was many a shield. 

1405. 
The crash of spears resounded aa band encounter'd band. 
Thitber were come &om all sides the warriorB of the land 
And the king's guests together, nobles in proud mrray ; 
Thence now with lady EJiemhild king Etzel went his way. 

1406. 
Close by, a rich pavilion for their retreat ftey found ; 
Crowded with tents and cabins was sSl the field around. 
There, after all their labours, their luiguid limbs they laid. 
Hdiany a good warrior thither led many a gentle maid, 

1407. 
Where on a cushion'd aofe rich beyond compMre 
The stately queen was seated : the m^'grave's anxious care 
For all things most convenient to pomp and ease had sent, 
And so at once serv'd Kriemhild, and gave the king content. 



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240 TWEKTT-aEOOND ADTKITUBB. 

1408. 

The tale then told bj Etzel is more than I can say ; 
Soft in his hand reposing her snowy fingers lay. 
So sat they gently toying, for Srudeger, I ween, 
Left not the king a moment in secret mth the queen. 

1409. 
Then o'er the spacious meadow they bad the tourney cease ; 
With honour all that tumult now was hush'd in peace. 
Then Etzel's men betook them to cabin, booth or tent ; 
Fit and convenient harbour they found where'er they went. 

1410. 
The day at last was ended, then took they their repose, 
Till, at her hour returning, the cheerful dawn arose. 
Then haaten'd many a warrior to horse at once to spring. 
Ah ! what pastimes plied they in honour of the king I 

14U. 
The king his Huns exhorted to do aa honour bade. 
From Tulna to Vienna their journey then they made. 
There found they many a lady adom'd in all her pride 
To welcome with due honour king Etzel'a noble bride. 

1412. 
In overflowing fulness all, that could each delight, 
To his wish was ready ; exulting mauy a knight 
Look'd forward to the revels ; joy smil'd on moat and least ; 
With mirth and gladness open'd king Etzel's marriage-feast. 

1413. 
The numbers now assembled the city could not hold, 
So all, who were not strangers, the noble margrave told 
To seek convenient quarters in all the country round. 
Still constant in attendance on the iair queen were found 



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EOV SHI WAB BECEITED AUONO TB£ HtTKS. 241 

1414. 

The valiant chief, Sir Dietrich, and many a knight beside ; 
N'eedAil rest and solace each himself denied 
To cheer the noble strangers and give them full content. 
Sir Budeger and his comradea had heartieBt merriment. 

1415. 
Held was the marriage festal on a Whitsuntide ; 
'T was then that royal Etzel embrac'd his high-bom bride 
In the city of Vienna ; I ween she ne'er had found, 
"When first she wed, such myriads aU to her service bound. 

1416. 
With gifts she made acquaintance of those she ne'er had seen ; 
" Kriemhild," said many a stranger, " is sure a royal queen ; 
She had lost, we thought, the treasures that she before had won; 
Tet here with her rich presents what wonders she haa done !" 

1417. 
Por seventeen days did Etzel hb marriage festal h(dd ; 
Never to ua of monarch, I ween, before was told, 
Who so proudly feasted, in old or modem lore. 
The guests, who there were present, all their new raiment wore. 

1418. 
Of old, I ween, in Xetherland she ne'er at board had sat 
With such a host of warriors ; well cau I vouch for that ; 
For ne'er so many champions had Siegfried at comm^id, 
With all his wealth, as KriemhUd saw before Btzel stand. 

1410. 
Never king before him so many mmitles brave. 
For length and breadth conspicuous, at his own wedding gave, 
Nor such store of rich vesture, enough for each to take ; 
All this was freely lavisb'd for lovely Eriemhild's sake. 



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248 TwxNTr-BEcons astentubk. 

1420. 
There of a mind together were friends and strangera too ; 
Neither their goods nor chattels kept that free-handed crew. 
Whate'er was aak'd, was granted ; they gave till they were bare- 
Many a one, through kindoesB, not a coat had left to wear. 

1421. 
How once by Kune ehe tarried, the bride a moment thought, 
With her first noble husband ; to her eyes the tears it brought ; 
Yet she so weU eonceal'd it, the feasters mark'd her not ; 
Now, after all her sorrows, what glory was her lot ! 

1422. 
All was but a trifle, that by the rest was done, 
To the liberal deeds of Dietrich ; whatever Botlung's son 
In former days had giv'n him, went scatter'd through the land > 
Marvels too of bounty were wrought by Eudeger's hand. 

1423. 
Prince Bloedel too of Hungary vied nobly with the best ; 
He bad his comrades empty full many a travelling chest 
Cramm'd with gold and silver ; the whole was giv'n away ; 
The warriors of king Etzel a merry life led they. 

1424. 
Werbel as well as Swemline, the minstrels of the kin^ 
To them no little profit did this lair marriage bring. 
They gain'd, I ween, in largess a thousand marks or more, 
When Kriemhild fiiir with Etzel the crown imperial wore. 

1425. 
'T was on the eighteenth morning, they from Vienna yode ; 
Pierc'd was many a buckler in tilting on the road 
By spears Fhich valiant champions level'd dexterously. 
So back retum'd king Etzel to the land of Hungary. 



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HOW SHE WAS EECKITED AMOTQ THE HCKS. 243 

1426. 

The waUa of ancient Hamburg they reach'd by fiill of night, 
So tliat scarce 't wa& eaaj to eetiinate hy sight 
How huge a strength of warriors the country round beset ; 
Ah ! what &ir troops of ladies each, home returning, met ! 

1427. 
At Hisenburg the wealthy on shipboard went the band ; 
From bank to bank the river, as though 't were firm dry land, 
With man and horse was cover'd that floated as it flow'd ; 
Best had the way-wom ladies, borne on their liquid road. 

1428. 
Many a good ship together was lash'd and firmly bound, 
LeHtthedampBprayHhouldhanuthem&ombillowadaahing round; 
Many a good tent above them kept off the sun and breeae, 
Ab if they in a meadow were sitting at their ease. 

1429. 
When to king Etzel's castle the joyful tidings came. 
Eight merry were to hear it many a knight and many a dame. 
The courtly train, accustom'd qoeen Helca to obey, 
In after time with Kriemhild led many a happy day. 

1430. 
In anxious doubt there waiting stood many a noble maid, 
All, since the death of Helca, down by deep sorrow weigh'd. 
Seven, of proudkings the daughters, Kriemhildlbundtherein place, 
Of aU king Etzel's country the ornament imd grace. 

1431. 
Of this ^r trtun of damsels dame Herrat had the care, 
Helca's sister's daughter, renown'd for virtues rare. 
Wife of good Sir Dietrich, daughter of Inng Nentwine ; 
Her after honours suited well with her lofty line. 
B 2 

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244 twenti-becoud adtehttibe. 

1482. 
That the high guests were coming, it joy'd her much to hear ; 
Straight she bad make ready good store of choicest cheer. 
How then king Etzel feasted, no tongue may hope to tell. 
E'en in the days of Helca they scarcely fiu^d bo well. 

1433. 
Ab from the shore with Eriemhild rode on king Etzel bold, 
"Who forward led each damsel, atraight to the queen was told, 
And thus each lord and lady she welcom'd as was meet ; 
Ah ! with what power thereafter she sat In Helca's seat ! 

1434. 
Their true and loyal service all vow'd to her alone ; 
Silver, and gold, and raiment, and many a precioua atone 
She &eely ahar'd among them ; on that auspicious day 
AU she bad brought &om Sbineland was giv'n at once away. 

1436. 
To her, as to their mistress, whoe'er the king obey'd. 
His kinsmen and his vaasals, true liegemen's service paid. 
That never lady Helca ruled with such mighty sway. 
Such service held queen Kriemhild e'en to her dying day. 

1436. 
So court and country flourish'dwith such high honours crown'd, 
And all at every season fresh joy and pastime found. 
Every heart was meny, smiles on each face were seen i 
So kind the king was ever, so liberal the queen. 



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TWENTT-THIED ADVENTrEE. 

BOW KBIEMHILD THOHOHT OF BBTENQUia KEB. INJTBIEa. 
1437. 

Kisa Etzel and queen Eriemhild in proudeet bonour dwelt 
Eor Beven whole years together, nor woe nor Borrow felt ; 
Meanwhile to her fond huaband the queen produced a boy ; 
Never before did Etzel exult eo high with joy, 

1438. 
She never ceas'd entreating till her good lord she won 
To have the right of baptism giv'n to her infant sou 
AAer the Christian custom ; Ortlieb call'd was he ; 
Thereat all Etzd's kingdoms were fill'd with mirth and glee. 

1439. 
"Whatever queenly virtues had fame to Helca brought, 
Dame Ejiemhild daily practis'd, and love, like Helca, sought. 
From the foreign maiden Herrat, who still in secret yeam'd 
For Helca's Iobs, the customs of all the land ehe leam'd. 

1440. 
Her praise both friends and strangers alike were glad to tell ; 
'T was own'd that never kingdom so graciously and well 
By queen had e'er been governed ; so much to all was dear. 
This fiune she bore in Hungary e'en to the thirteenth jeta. 

1441. 
When now she knew for certain that none voiild thwart her will 
(So deal with wiveB of princes their husbands' vassals still), 
And saw twelve kinga for ever standing her before. 
Her home-bred wrongs and sorrows again she brooded o'er. 



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246 TWENTT-THIBD 

1442. 

She thought how all the honours of the Nibelimgers' land, 
That once were her poaseesion, fierce Hagan'e rugged haad, 
After the death of Siegfried, had torn from her away, 
And how the proud wrong-doer with wrong she might repay. 

1443. 
" 'T were done, if I could only lure him to thia land !" 
Still wonld she drenm, that often she wander'd hand in hand 
With Oieelher her brother, and often on the mouth 
Eisa'd him in her Blumber ; too soon came bale on both. 

1444. 
Sure the foul fiend possess'd her, and lurling in her heart 
Prompted her from king Qimther bo loringly to part, 

Eiseing, but not fbrgiving, close harbouring etill the feud. 
Hot tears of wrath and malice once more her veature dew'd. 

1445. 
At her heart for ever early and late it lay, 

How, guiltless, from her country she had been driven away. 
And forc'd to take for husband a man of heathen creed. 

Gunther and bloody Bagui had brought her to such need. 
1446. 

One long and dreary yearning she foster'd hour by hour ; 

She thought, " I am bo wealthy and hold such boundless power, 

That I with ease a mischief can bring on all my foes, 

But .most on him of Trouy, the deadliest &r of those. 
1447. 

Full oft for its beloved my heart is mourning still ; 

Them could I but meet with, who wrought me bo much ill, 

Bevenge should strike at murder, and life atone for life ; 

Wait can I no longer." So murmur'd Stzel's wife. 



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HOW EBIEUHIID THOUGHT OF SXTWHOTSQ HEB ITUHBIXS. 247 

All the great king's vaesak mach love unto her bore, 

And to do ter aerriee were ready evermore. 

Her chamberiiun was £ckewart, who thua made hoete of Mends ; 

So none could thwart her pleasure, whate'er might be her ends. 

144&. 
Ever was she thinking, " I'll ask the king a boon, 
which he, I know, will grant mc readily aud aoon, 
To bid my fiiends and kinsmen hither to Hiuiniah ground." 
NoDB guess'd her secret malice, or harm in Kriemhild found. 

1450. 
So on a night, reposing as by the king she lay 
(He in his anna embrac'd her, and blesa'd the happy day. 
That gave him such a consort, dear to him as hie life ; 
She on her foes was thinking and th' old intestine strife), 

1451. 
Thua spake she to the monarch, " dear lord, fiill &in would I 
Entreat of thee a fevour, which thou wilt not deny 
If thou think'st I deserve it, to let me see aright 
If my friends in good eBmest have &vour in thy sight." 

1452. 
Then spake the mighty monarch (kind was his heart and true), 
" Of that can I assure thee ; whatever good accrue 
To thoae boldknighta, be certain to me content it lends ; 
Never through love of woman acquir'd I better friends." 

1463. 
Thenthnsmade Kriemhild answer; " 't is true, as thou doet know. 
Eight noble are my kinsmen, yet ever am I woe 
That still they keep ao distant nor I by them am seen. 
I'm told, for a mere outcast, people report your queen." 



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248 TWEHTY-THIBa) ADTBBTUKE- 

1454. 
Then anBwer'd thus king Etzel, " dear love and lady mine, 
If thej regard not distance, I'll Bend beyond the Srhine, 
And hither bid whomever thou here to see art fiun." 
Much joy'd the Tengefiil lady thua hia consent to gain. 

1455. 
Saidshe, "would'atthoubutplease me, dear lord and master mine. 
Despatch from hence thy envoya to Worms beyond the Shine. 
Such friends as moat I long for, I hither will invite. 
And straight will come am.ong us tiill many a noble knight." 

1456. 
Said he, " as thou would'at have it, so let the matter be ; 
Assure thee, thou wilt never thy friends so gladly see 
As I shall gladly see them, noble Uta's children dear ; 
It irta me much and deeply, they 've been such strangers here. 

1457. 
So, if it thus content thee, dear love and lady mine, 
I'll gladly aend my minstrels for those good friends of thine. 
They this very morning shall sttut for Burgundy." 
With that, the king his minstrels bad summon instantly. 

1458. 
They hasten'd at the summons where, newly ria'n fiwm bed. 
The ting aat with his consort ; thus to both he said, 
" Hence you with a message to Burgundy must ride." 
With that, the richest vesture he bad for them provide, 

1459. 
For four and twenty warriors fit raiment was prepar'd. 
Moreover to his envoys his will the king declar'd. 
How they should to Hungary bid Chinther and his folk. 
But what the queen enjoin'd them close apart she spoke. 



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HOW KEIBMniLB THOUOHT OF EETEN&IUG HEE 
1460. 

Thus them addrpsa'd king Etzel ; " I'll tell you what to do ; 
To my good friends go tender my love and eemoe trne. 
And bid them deign ride hither, and taste our Hunnish cheer. 
Guests have I none other whom I hold ao dear, 

1461. 
So, if they will do me the &,vour which I pray. 
Entreat them not to linger ; speed m^ea the surest way. 
At my high least this summer I trust to see my Mends, 
And on my wife's &ir kinsmen much of my joy depends." 

1462. 
Thereto replied the minstrel, the haughty Swemmeline, 
" When in this laud of Hungary your feast do you design ? 
That to your Mends exactly your purpose we may say." 
"About," replied king Etzel, " nest midsummer day." 

1463. 
" "We '11 surely do your bidding," "Werbel made reply. 
Into her inmost chamber the queen bad by and by 
In secret bring the envoys, and there her will 'gan tell. 
Whence death and grim detraction many a good knight befell. 

1464. 
She said to both the envies, " now only serve me true. 
And as I command you my will discreetly do, 
And, when you come to Bhineland, speak but my bidding there, 
And I'll give you gold and raiment plenty and to spare. 

1465. 
To my Menda, whomever you meet with, more or leas. 
At Worms, aa there you tarry, be sure you ne'er confess 
That ever you beheld me moody or aorrow-wom ; 
Only let my service to the good knights be borne. 



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260 TWEKTT-TIIIBD ADTE^ITUBX. 

1466. 

Beg them to grant the favour for whidi the king hath sent. 
And so at once will vanish my only discontent. 
I here am fancied fiiendlesa, and scarce esteem'd aright, 
rd go myself to visit them if I were but a knight. 

1467. 
And also to Sir Gemot, my noble brother, say, 
That none can love him better thaa his sister &r away. 
And bid Tiim bring me hither our Mends most prov'd and true, 
That all may here accord us the honour that's our due. 

1468. 
And say too to young G-iaelher that he should bear in mind. 
That he never wroug'd me, but still was good and kind. 
My eyes are ever yeuning to look upon him here, 
For dearly do I love him, aa I to him am dear, 

1169. 
And tell my noble mother what honours here I bear. 
Then, if Hagira of Trony resolve to tarry there, 
Whowill there be to guidethem through lands so waste and loneF 
But he the roads to Hungary e'en from a child has known." 

1470. 
Ifot a whit the envoys could guess her deep design 
In keeping bim of Trony from tarrying by the Bhine. 
It irk'd them sore thereaiter, when their unconscious breath 
"With him had drawn the guiltless into the toils of death. 

1471. 
Letters and goodly greetings the kii^ was prompt to give ; 
And riches bore they with them right sumptuously to live. 
8o leave they took of JBtKel, and of his noble queen ; 
Adom'd were t^ey with raiment as rich as e'er was seen. 



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TWENTT-FOTJRTH ADVENTUBE. 

HOW -WIBBEL AKD BWEHM£L DBLITEBED THE 1LE88A0E. 
1472. 

Wbes Etzel had his envoys to the Bheniah border bown'd, 
From land to land the tidings at once flew wide aronnd. 
He pray'd and eke commanded by many a nimble post 
Guests to hia gorgeous festal ; 't was the doom of death to most. 

1473. 
So from the realm of Hungary forth the envoys went 
To the bold Burgundians ; thither were they sent 
To three royal brethren and their warriors wight 
To bid them come to Etzel ; fast prick'd they aa they might. 

1474. 
Thence came they to Bechlaren as on the spiir they rode ; 
There aQ were glad to tend them, and nought but kindness show'd. 
Budeger and Ootelind by them their serrice true 
Sent to theb friends in Bhiaeland, so did their daughter too. 

1475. 
Thence without many a present they would not let them part, 
So that the men of Etzel might go with merrier heart. 
Budeger bad tell TTta and her children three. 
That sure no other margrave lov'd them so well as he. 

1476. 
And eke they sent to Brunhild their service and best will, 
Their loyalty devoted, and love enduring stilL 
So, thus at Hill commission'd, the envoys sprung to selle ; 
The margravine at parting pray'd God to guard them well. 



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262 TWENTY-FOrBTH ADTEKTUBX. 

1477. 
Ere the despatichiul minatrelB had ridd'n Bararia througli, 
Swift Werbel fonnd the bbhop, queen Eriemhild's unde trae. 
What to hie Bheniah kinsmen by their moutba he eaid 
Came nerer to my^ knowledge ; but th' envoys gold so red 

1478. 
He gave for a remembrance ere he let them part ; 
But first thus spake good Pilgrin; "'twould gladden suremyheart 
To see them in Bavaria, these sister's sons of mine, 
Since I can hope so seldom to seek them by the Hhioe." 

1479. 
What roads they took yet forther, as to the !Bhine they &r'd. 
Is more than I can utter ; none sure to pilfer dar'd 
Their silver or their raiment ; of Stzel all had dread ; 
Sis majesty and puissauce so wide around were spread. 

1480. 
Within twelve days, so riding, they came unto the Bhine, 
E'en to Worms, the minstrels Werbel and Swemmeline. 
To the Mngs and their liegemen forthwith the tidings nm, 
That come were foreign envoys. Ghmther to ask began. 

1481. 
Thus said the lord of Ithineland, " 1 &in would understand. 
Whence have the strangers joumey'd who thus have sought our 

land." 
Not one to his inquiiy could satisfaction bring, 
Till they were seen by Hagaa, who thus bespake the kmg ; 

1482. 
" These must be weighty tidings ; that can I vouch for true ; 
Sure they are Etzel's minstrels whom here I have in view. 
Your sister sends them hither unless I much mistake ; 
lict's give them hearty welcome for their great master's sake." 



V WEBBEL AND 3WEUMEL DELITEBED THE UESSAOE. 258 



1488. 
At oQce up to the palace in taie array they rode ; 
Never prince's minatrela before so lordly show'd. 
Forthstepp'dkingCruntlier'a servants with courteous actand look. 
And led them to fit chambers, and in charge their raiment took. 

14S4. 
So rich and bo well fashion'd were the riding vests they wore, 
That in them they with honour might go the king before ; 
StiU they lesolv'd no longer the same at court to wear, 
But aek'd, "who would accept them?" of those who loiter'd there. 

1485. 
It chanced that there were many, who were right well content 
To take their profier'd bounty ; to these they straight were sent. . 
Then robes of such rare splendour put on the lofty guests. 
That well might royal envoys keep state in meaner vesta. 

1486. 
Straightway, with leave accorded, Etzel's servants went 
To where the king was sitting ; kind looks were on them bent. 
To them in courteous &shiou up stepp'd Sir Hagan brave. 
And warmly bad them welcome ; due thanks in turn they gave. 

1487. 
Much after news inquir'd he, much alter great and small, 
How it was with Etzel, how with his warriors all. 
The minstrel thus made answer, " the land was ne'er so well, 
The people ne'er bo happy ; this I for truth can tell." 

1488. 
To the host then went the envoys ; throng'd was the palace vide ; 
They met right courteous greeting from knights on every aide, 
Such as in distant countries to noble guests is due. 
Werbel tbere found with Gunther many a champion bold and true. 



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254 rWEHTT-FOUBTH ADTXKTUBB. 

1469. 
CouiteouBly king Gimttter greeted them as they stood ; 
"Welcome toWonnSjboth welcome, je Himnuih minstrels good, 
Tou and your worthy comrades ; wherefore from Hungary 
Has noble Etsel sent you so far to Burgundy f " 

1490. 
liOw bow'd they to king Gunther, then Worbd spake, " by me 
My good king and thy sister their aerrice send to thee, 
AuA their fraternal greeting with kind sincere intent. 
We to you knights of Bhineland in love and truth are sent." 

1491. 
Then said the puissant G-unther, "this news I'm glad to bear; 
And how," asked he, " ia Etzel, whom long I've held so dear, 
And my fair sister Kriemhild, vho reigns in Hungary F" 
Then anflwer'd thus the minstrel, " TU tell you faithfully. 

1492. 
This take for true and certain, that never yet were seen 
People so blithe and merry as our good king and queen, 
Their vassals, and their kioamcn, and knights in bowra- and haU; 
The tidings of our journey rejoic'd them one and all." 

1493. 
" Thanks for his friendly message, which yon bo &r have brought, 
And also for my sister's ; it glads my inmost thought 
To find they all live happy, both king and liegemen bold. 
I aak'd with ffear and trembling before your tale was told." 

1494. 
The two young kings together alike the presence sought. 
But just before, the tidings had to their ears been brought. 
Bight glad to see the envi^ for his dear sister's sake 
Was the young knight Giselher, and friendly them beepake. 



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HOW WERBEL ASit SWEMMBI: DELtTXBEB THE UEBBA.GE. 255 
1495. 

" Welcome, ye noble envoys, welcome to me and mine ; 
Should you be pleas'd more frequent to travel to the Ithine, 
Prienda you would meet with ever who'd aee you Btill with joy. 
And bttle you'd encounter to cause you here annoy." 

1496. 
"For that we freely trust you," straight answer'd Swemmeline ; 
" Express ne'er could I fitly by wit or words of mine 
What kind and friendly greetings I from king Etzel bear, 
And from your noble sister, who reigns so proudly theire. 

1497. 
Tour love and old affection she bids you keep in mind, 
And how to her you ever in heart and soul were kind. 
But first to the king and foremost we come by high command. 
To beg you'd deign to travel hence into Etzcl's land. 

1498. 
In strictest charge 't was given us hy our redoubted king. 
Unto you all this message on his account to bring, 
If you your loving sister are so resolv'd to shun, 
Tet fain would leam king Etzel, what he to you baa done, 

1499. 
That you to him such strangers and to bis land have been ; 
E'en were you diatant aliens, nor kinsmen of his queen. 
He at your hands might merit that you bia guests should be, 
And if this e'er should happen, right well content were he." 

1500. 
Thereto replied king Gunther, " before this sennight's end, 
111 tell you, after counsel first ta'en with many a friend, 
What I shall have determiu'd ; meanwhile for you 't were best 
To go back to your quarters and theie in pleasure rest." 



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256 TWE»TY-FOUBTH ADTENTiiaE. 

1501. 

Tbea said the minatrel Werbel, " and might it also be, 
That jou would permit ua a little epace to see 
My gracioua lady TJta ere we retire to rest ?" 
Thereto aflseat Sir Giaelher thus courteously express' d. 

1502. 
" That no one will refiise you, and, would you thither go. 
Full well you'd please my mother, that for a truth I know; 
Surely for my sister the lady £riemhild's sake 
She will behold you gladly, and friendly welcome make." 

1503. 
Giselher then led them where he the lady found ; 
Full gladly she beheld them, the chiefs from Hunnish ground. 
She gaye them friendly greeting for she was good and wiae ; 
They then their charge deliver'd in grave and courtly guiae. 

1504. 
" To you the queen my lady,'" thus noble Swemmel spake, 
" Oommenda her love and duty j this you for truth may take. 
That if your royal daughter her mother oft could see, 
In all the world no pleasure more dear to her would be." 

1505. 
Thereto the queen made answer ; " that cannot be, I fear ; 
Much as 't would glad me, often to see my daughter dear. 
She dwells frvm hence too distant, the noble Etzd's wife. 
May she and he together ever lead a happy life ! 

1506. 
I pray you, give me notice, e'er you from Shineland go. 
When you begin your journey ; this too for certain know. 
That I never envoya with more content have seen." 
The squires to do her pleasure made premise to the queen. 



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now WEBBEL ASS SWEUICEL DELITBBEl) THE MESBAQE. 2S7 
1307- 

The messengers itom Himgaiy thence to their ohambers went ; 
Meanwhile in baato king Ountber round to bis MendB bad sent, 
And, when aU were aaeembled, inqnir'd of eveiy man, 
What thought tbey of the message ; many then to spe^ b^ian. 

1508. 
That into Etzel'a country he might in safety ride, 
This all the best adns'd him, who stood there by bis side. 
Save only stem Sir Hagan ; he drew the king apart. 
And grimly frowning mutter' d, " you etrike at your own heart 

1509. 
You sure must stUl remember what we ere now have done. 
We must beware of KriemhUd for ever, every one. 
To the death her husband [ smote" with this good hand ; 
How then can we with prudence set foot in Etzel's land ?" 

1510. 
Then spake the mighty monarch, " she thinks no more of this j 
At parting she forgave us with many a loving kiss 
All we had done against ber ; ber wrath is overblown. 
If she bear malice, Hagan, 't is sure 'gidnst you alone." 

1511. 
" Trust not, Sir King," aaii Hagan, " bow smooth aoe'er they be, 
These messengers &om Hungary ; if Eriembild you will see. 
Ton put upon the venture your honour and your life. 
A nurse of ling'ring vengeance is Etzel's mood; wife."' 

1512. 
Then took the word prince Gemot, and in the cooncil spake, 
" Because you with good reason believe your life at stake 
In yonder Hunnish kingdoms, must we too Kriembild shun, 
And visit not our sister ? that sure were wrongly done." 



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2S8 - TWKHTX-FOITBTH ASTSKTUBE. 

1518. 

Then to the frowning wurior prince Gifielher tum'd hia rede, 
" Since 70a know yourself guilty, Mend Hagan, in this deed. 
Better stay here iu safety, and of yotir life take care. 
And with ub to our siater let journey those who dare." 

1614. 
Thereat the knight of Tnmy to kindle wrath began, 
" Never shall you, never, lead with you hence a man 
That with you dare ride readier to visit your worst ftie ; 
Since you will not hear counsel, this I ere long wUl show." 

1515. 
Then spake the steward Bumolt, a hardy knight and true ; 
" You can dispose in Bhineland of friends and strangera too 
After your own good pleasure ; abundance have you here ; 
No one, I ween, iu Hungary has bound you to appear. 

1516. 
Since you will not hear Hagan, to my advice attend ; 
This is what Bumolt couuboIb, your firm and laithful friend ; 
Stay here in peace and plenty ; let those who need it roam. 
And let the great king Etzel cheer his fair queen at home. 

1517. 
Where can you be better for pleasure or r«poBe ? 
"Where more with friends surrounded, and more secure fromfoes? 
So be wise and meny, the richest lument wear, 
Hriuk the best wine in fihineland, and woo the fairest &ir. 

1518. 
Store have you too of dainties, the best and most to prize 
That ever feasted monarch, and, if 't were otherwise. 
At home you still should tany for love of your fair wife. 
Nor in such childish foshion expose your precious life. 



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HOV WESBEL.ASD BWEMMEL DEIJTEK£D THE UESaAQB. 259 
.1519. 

Stay here then, I beseech yon ; rich are jour lawna and leas, 
Here every pledge of pleasure you may redeem with ease, 
Far better than in Hungary ; who knows what there may rise p 
Stay here, my lord, and atir not ; this ia what I advise." 

1620. 
" Stay will we not, assure thee," prince Gemot answer' datraight; 
" How can we, when my sister and the great king, her mate, 
Have bidd'n us by a measage bo loving and so kind P 
Who will pot freely with us may safely stay behind." 

,1521. 
Thereto, made Hagan answer, " be not displeaa'd at all 
With what I now shall eonnsel, whatever hence befall. 
In faith and truth I warn yon ; would you in safety go. 
Bide well array'd to Hungary, uid arm'd from top to toe. 
1522. 

Since you still will forward, for all your warriors send, 

'FoT every valiant stranger and every trusted Mend. 

From aU I'll choose a thousand, each a well-proved knight ; 

Thus you may rest in safety from moody Kriemhild'a spite." 
1523. 

" I gladly take thy counsel," the king at once replied ; 

Throughout his lands despatch'd he his messengers f^ and wide. 

Three thousand knights or better came on with proud intent. 

Little thought they to purchase such doleful dreariment. 
1524. 

With jollity and joyance to Gunther's land they rode ; 

On all, that proffer'd serrice, was horse and weed bestow'd. 

For soon were they to travel far firom Burgundian ground. 

Many a good knight to join him the king right willing found. 



wo TWENTT-FOUBTH ADVENTURE. 

1626. 
Then Hagan told Sir Saokwart, his brother good at need, 
Eighty of their warriors forth to the Bhiae to lead. 
Thither they came full knightly ; the well-appointed band 
Harness with them and raiment brought into Giinther's land. 

1626. 
Folker, a noble minstrel, and eke a hardy knight, 
Came to partake their journey with thirty men of might, 
All clad in such appu«I as well a king might Tear ; 
He bad announce to Chmther, to Hungm7 he'd &re. 

1527. 
Now, who was this same Folker, I'll tell you faithtiilly. 
He was a high-bom warrior, and had in Burgundy 
"Ww-"y good knights for va.a8ala of honour undefil'd. 
For playing on the viol the minstrel he was styl'd. 

1528. 
Hagan chose out a thousand whom well before he knew 
In stem assaults and forays for valiant men and true. 
And in all forms of battle their worth he oft had tried, 
Th^ well-approved prowess by none could be denied. 

1529. 
Sore irk'd it Eriemhild's envoys to make so long a stay ; 
■They fear'd their lord's displeasure, and fiiin would speed away. 
They daily were entreating for leave at once to part. 
But Hagan stiU refus'd it through subtlety of heart. 

1630. 
To his lords he thus gave warning, " we must well beware 
Of letting these ride homeward, unless ourselves we iaxe 
'Within a senn^ht after straight into Etzel's luid. 
"We shall be thus the safer if any fraud be plann'd. 



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BOW VERBEL AilD SVXHUEI DGHTXBKD T^^ UXBBAOB. 261 
1631. 

With 4II her thirat for vengetmce, KriemMld will want the time 
To weave a web of nuBcliief, and muster strength for crime, 
Or, if she Btrike too early, she '11 be the auffeter then, 
Since we shall bring to Hungaiy sucb a boat of chosen men." 

1582. 
Forthwith for many a champion, who thence would soon away, 
Frepar'd were shielda and saddles and all the proud array 
That to the land of Etiel each was with him to bring ; 
meanwhile qneen Kriemhild'a envoys were call'd before th&king. 

1533. 
Then thus began Sir Gemot to th' envoys there in place ; 
" The king will do the bidding of royal Etzel'a grace. 
Fain will we seek his festal, which it were ill to miss. 
And see once more our sister ; she may depend on this." 

1684. 
Then spake to them king Chinther, " could you to us declare 
The time of this high festal, and when we should be there 
With all our following present ?" then Bwenunel made reply, 
" For the nert midsummer ia fii'd the festal h^h." 

1585. 
The king then gave permission, not granted till that hour, 
If they wish'd to visit dame Brunhild in her bower. 
With his &ee allowance thither at once to go. 
Then interpos'd Sir Folker (the queen would have it ao). 

1586. 
" Just now my lady Brunhild is not ho well of cheer,*' 
Said the good knight, " that strangers before her can appear. 
Wait until to-morrow ; then you the queen may see." 
Much wish'd th^ to behold hw, yet never could it be. 



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262 - TWEHTT-rOCBTH ADTEWTTTEE. 

1587. 

Then in Ma gracious Siahion commanded straight the king 
Through kindnOHs to the envoys forth hie gold to bring 
Spread out on maHsy bucklere ; good store thereof had he, 
Eich gifts his friends too gave them with liberal hand and free. 

1538. 
Gemot alike and Giselher and Oaiy and Ortwine 
Show'd, thejr as well could lavish the treasures of the mine. 
Such rich gifts on the envc^ were shower'd with one accord, 
That they durst not accept them through terror of their lord. 

1539. 
Op this the messenger Swemmel thus to the king 'gan say, 
" Sir King, needs must your presents here in your country stay ; 
We cannot take them with us ; our king has so decreed, 
And strictly that forbidden ; besides, we 've little need." 

1540. 
Ifot little wonder'd GUmther, and felt displeasure more, 
That they refiis'd such presents given from his royal store. 
Still he at last constrain'd them his gold and weed to take. 
And to the land of Etzel to bear them for his sake. 

1641. 
An audience of queen Uta, ere they set out, they sought. 
Tonng Griaelher the minstrels before his mother brought. 
The lady to her daughter by them this message sent. 
To hear of all her honours, it gave her fiill content. 

1542. 
Girdles and gold ^e lavish'd, sure more than I can tell, 
Both for the sake of Kriemhild (for her she lov'd Ml well) 
And also of king £!tzel, on those same minstrels brave ; 
Th^ willingly accepted what she sincerely gave. 



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HOW WBKBEL AHD SWEUHEL DE£tTXBBD THE UEaaA.OE. 263 

1543. 
Their leave then took tlie ettvoys, well-^fted as miglit be, 
Of every noble wwrior and every lady free. 
Thence on they rode to Svabia ; Sir G«mot sent along 
Solkrhis knights to guard them, that none should do them wrong. 

1544. 
Wlien from the friends they parted, who had asaur'd their way, 
In peace they went thenceforward, safe under Etzel's sway, 
That no man dar'd to pilfer their horses or their weed. 
So to the land of Etzel they prick'd with fiery apeed. 

1545. 
Whom true they found and friendly, them told they all and some, 
That the bold Burgundiana would shortly thither come 
From the Rhine into Hungary, a8 Etzel them had pray'd. 
Also to bishop Pilgrin like tidings were convey' d. 

1646. 
As they nigh to Bechlfu«n came riding down the road, 
'T was told to good Sir Eudeger, who there in peace abode, 
And to the lady C^otelind, the noble margravine. 
To hear she soon would see them, right glad waa she, I ween. 

1547. 
On went they with the tidings, fast sped they horse and man ; 
The minatreb found Itin g Etzel in his good town of Oran. 
&reetinga upon greetings were sent from Brhine, they said. 
All there were at his service ; for joy he glow'd a merry red. 

1548. 
When the queen heard for certain (what she so long had plann'd) 
That her long absent brethren would come into the land. 
She swam in joy and rapture ; richly for service done 
The minetrels she requited ; high honour thus she won. 



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2C1 

1649. 
Then tim she apake, " now tell me, Werbel and Swenuneline, 
Who to our feast are coming of kin and fiienda of mine, 
Into this Innd inTited irith man^ a fiioidly word ; 
And tell too, what aiud Hagao, when he the tidings heard." 

. 1550. 
" Early upon a morning to the council-board he came ; 
Little there he ntter'd but words of gloom and blame ; 
And when the jaunt to Hungary was Toted in a breath, 
He grimly uuil'd and mutter'd, 'thiBJaont'e a jaunt to death.' 

1551. 
There are your brethren coming, the noMe kiogB all three, 
In lofty mood and joyous ; who there besides may be, 
We could not learn for certain, eise would we nothing hide. 
The valiant gleeman Folker agreed with them to ride." 

1552. 
" I could have srpw'd full lightly the minetpers presence here," 
Beplied the wife of Etzel ; " this gives me little cheer ; 
I'm well incliu'd to Hagan ; he is of courage high ; 
To have h'"! here among us right well content am I." 

1553. 
Then in haste went Kriemhild where sat king Etzel near ; 
How kindly she bespabe hi'm ! " my lord and husband dear, 
What think'et thou of these tidings, thou, who this feaat bast 

will'd? 
My heart's long lingering wishes shall now be all fulfill'd." 

1554. 
" Thy wishes are my pleasure," the smiling king replied, 
" Ke'er with my own good kinsmen was I so satisfied. 
Whene'er into my country they have been pleas'd to iare ; 
Through love of thy brave brethren has vamsh'd aH my care." 



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now THE LOSDS Alt CiME IHTO HUHGAEY. 
1655. 

The officers of Etael forthwith beBtirr'd them a^', 
With fitting seats to fiimiBh palace as well as hall 
For the dear guests, approaching the merry feast to keep. 
They gave him canBe thereafter full bitterly to weep. 



TWENTY-FIFTH ADVBNTTTEE. 

HOW THE Irf)BDS ALL OAUB ISTO HITNGAET. 
1556. 

But let us tell no further how there the work they plied. 
Never to a king's country were known before to ride 
Such well-appointed squadrona aa thither were to speed. 
■ They had whate'er they wanted, both weapons and eke weed. 

1557. 
The king of Bhine apparel gave to his liegemen bold, 
To threescore and a thousand, as I have heard it told, 
BesideB nine thousand yeomen, on mirth and revelTient. 
Those, whom they left behind them, soon rued that e'er theywent. 

1558. 
In Worms, as their equipment waa carrying through the court, 
From Sjrire an aged bishop, of reverend report. 
Thus beapake fiur Uta ; " our worthy Mends prepare 
To yonder feast to travel ; Qod watch and waii them there !" 

1559. 
Th^'eon the noble Uta bespake her children dear, 
" Far better stay, good heroes, and tend your safety here. 
I had last night, my children, a dream of ghastly dread, 
How all the lHrds,that flutter tiiroughotit this land,were duad." 



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266 TWENTT-PirTH ADTZNTUBE. 

1560. 

''Whocareflfordreains,''BftidHagan,"andtliiiLkBbytIiemtowalk, 
Ne'er in the path of honour with sturdy steps can stalk. 
Or breathe the voice of reason, but wavers to and fro. 
I lede, my noble master take leave and forward go. 

1661. 
Yes, we shall ride full gladly hence into Etzel's land. 
There kings need for their service many a good hero's hand. 
And this fair feast of Kriemhild's awaits ub there to view." 
So Hagan urg'd the journey, which soon he came to rue. 

1562. 
He ne'er had giv'n such counsel but for what late had pasa'd, 
When seom on him Sir Q«mot had ho unseemly cast, 
Reminding him of Siegfried, and what had erst been done, 
As though for that dislik'd him the journey to the Hun. 

1563. 
Then anawer'd he of Trony, " fear prompts not what I rede. 
If BO you'll hare it heroes, fall to the work and speed ; 
You'll find me not the hindmost to ride to Etzel's realm." 
Soon shatter'd he thereafter many a shieU and many a helm. 

1664. 
The boats were wiuting ready, the band was muster'd there ; 
Thither his choice apparel each one made haste to bear. 
Their toil was scarce well over ere eve fell on the lea ; 
So from their homes they parted as merry as might be. 

1566. 
Beyond the Kline's fair current their hasty camp was seen ; 
There tents and proud pavilions bespotted aU the green. 
The lovely queen her hiisband detain'd for that one night, 
The last they spent together, dole mingling with delight. 



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HOW THE LOBJIB ^IL CAHE INTO QtrKOABr. 



At ear!^ dawn there sounded sweet flute and troinpet-clang ; 
'T was tlie hour of parting ; to work the varriora eprang. 
With a haaty kiaa fond lovers were then constrain'd to sever. 
With woe and death fell Kriemhild soon Btmder'd them for ever. 

1567, 
The duldren of iair Uta a man had at their court. 
Bold alike and laithfiil, in all of best report. 
The same, as they were going, drew the king aside. 
" Woe's me," said he, " dear master, you to this feast will ride," 

1568. 
The good knight's name was Biuuolt, a tall man of his hands. ' 
Said he, " to whom commit you yoiir people and your lands F 
Would one could turn you warriorB to do what best you should ! 
This message of your sister's it never seem'd me good." 

1569. 
" This is my will and pleasure ; to thee my inlant heir, 
To thee I trust my country ; of the women take good care ; 
Whomever thou see'st weeping, his woe with comfort charm. 
Sure at the hands of EHemhild we ne'er can come to harm." ' 

1570. 
Forthe kingsand for their liegemen the steeds werereadyranged; 
How many then, with kisses of true love interchanged. 
Full flown with lively vigour, athirst for bold emprize, 
lisf t each a stately lady to droop in tears and sighs t 

1571. 
When light into their saddles up sprang the warriors good, 
Then might you see the women how sorrowful they stood. 
All felt, they did for ever, and to their doom, depart, 
A dreary, dai^ foreboding, that shakes the firmest heart ! 



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868 TWEITTT-nPTH ADTXHTUaB- 

1672. 
As the bold Burgundiana rode forth in gallatit shov, 
To see them all the couatiy nm hunTiiig to imd &o. 
On either side the mountuns both men and vomen wept. 
Little reck'd tb^ the weepers ; their joyous course they kept. 

liS73. 
In habergeons a thousand the hnights of Niblung's reign. 
Who many a lovely lady, they ne'er should see again, 
Had left at home in sorrow, rode gaily with the rest. 
The wounds of Si^fried feater'd in EJriemhild's throbbingbreast 

1671. 
So went they ever onward until the Main they spied. 
Thence up through Eastern Frankland the men of Onntber hied. 
Well knew the toads Sir Hagan, who led their steps aright ; 
Thrar marshal was Sir Duikwart the stout Burgnndian knight. 

1575. 
As on fi?om Eastern I^rankknd to Schwanfeld still they rode, 
Their grace and stately courtesy and knightly bearing ahow'd, 
The princes and their kindred deserr'd their lofty &me. 
The king on the twelfth morning unto the Danube came. 

1576. 
A apace the knight of Trony rode on before the host ; 
He still the Kibelungers beat cheer'd and aided most. 
The fear^de^ring champion alighted on the lea. 
And fast beside the river bia horse tied to a tree. 

1577. 
Sw(^ was the roaring river, bark was there none to spy ; 
Every bcJd Nibelunger look'd on with wistful eye 
In doubt how to pass over, the surges spread so wide. 
Many a good knight from saddle down sprung the stream beside. 



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HOW THK lOBDS ALL CAME IKTO nUHGABT. 269 

1578. 

" OoodlordofMme,"BudHagan,"muchmiBChiefIiereinaybe, 
Much may'at thou have to Buffer, aa thou thyself may'st see. 
Strong IB the flood and furioua, the atream can ill be crosa'd. 
Many a good knight^ I fear me, will here to-day he lost." 

1579. 
" Why dost thou check me, Haganf" the troubled king'gan aayj 
" Do not, as thou m* valiant, the daunted more diamay. 
Loot out a ford up higher, abore these lower meads. 
Where we may pass in safety our baggage and our steeds." 

1580. 
" I never," answer'd Hagan, " my life so weary found, 

■But in these burly billows 't would irk me to he drown'd. 

Many a knight of Etzel's, ere yet my day be o'er, 

By this good hand shall perish ; that, '&ith, wouldplease me more. 

1581. 
So here beside the water, ye noble knights, abide ; 
Myself will seek the ferrymen along the river aide, 
And bid them bring ua over hence into (Jelfrat's land." 

With that the sturdy Hagan took his good shield in hand. 
1582. 

Well aim'd was the stem champion j he bore a shield of might ; 

Strongly lac'd was hia helmet, weU-temper'd, bumish'd bright ; 

Hifl broadsword in a baldric hung o'er his armour sheen ; 

Wounds could it cat full ghastly with both its edges keen. 
1583. 

As here and there for boatmen look'd out the warrior good, 

He heard a splash of water ; listening awhile he stood. 

The sound eame from wiae women, who took their pleasure near. 

Bathing for refreshment in a fountain cool and clear. 



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270 TWESTT-PTPTH ASTXKTUKX. 

1584. 

Ware of them was Hagtm ; nigh he closely crept ; 
Sudden they espied him, — how away they swept ! 
That they had so escap'd him, their hoaoms swell'd with joy ; 
He seiz'd upon their raiment, nor wrought them more annoy. 

158S. 
Then one of them beapake him (Hadburg was her name), 
" Noble knight. Sir Hagan, go seek a worthier game. 
Qive ua bsick our raiment, and we will teU thee all 
That fix)m this march to Hungary shall thee and thine befall." 

1586. 
Like water-hens they floated before him on the wave. 
Him seem'd, their well known wisdom of truth assurance gave ; 
Hence what they chose to tell him, he took with more belief. 
.Then thus they of the future resoly'd the listening chief. 

1587. 
8^ th' one, " toEtzel's country (doubt not what Hadburg saitb) 
You well may ride and safely, for that I pledge my faith. 
And never band of heroes sought kingdom far or new 
To win Buch height of honour ; 't is true as we are here." 

1588. 
-Well pleas'd her speech Sir Hagan, his heart waz'd light and gay; 
^e gave them back their vesture, and would no longer stay ; 
But when again the mermaids had donn'd their wondrous vreed, 
They told in truth, how Gunther in Hungary should speed. 

1589. 
And then the other mermaid, that Sieglind hight, began, 
" I vrill warn thee, Hagan, thou son of Aldriui ; 
My aimt has lied unto thee her raiment back to get ; 
If once thou com'st to Hungaty, thou'rt token in the net. 



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HOW THE LOBDB AXI CAME INTO HrNGABT. 271 

1590. 

Turn, wMe there's time for safety, turn, warriora moat and least ; 
For thja, and for this only, you're bidden to the feast. 
That you perforce may perish in Etzel'B bloody land. 
Whoever rideth thither. Death has he close at hand." 

1591. 
Thereto gave answer Hagan ; " in vain you cheat and lie, 
How can it ever happen that there we all shall die, 
However fierce the hatred that one to us may hear P" 
They then began the futm« more fully to declare. 

1592. 
Then thus the first bespake him ; " yet so it needs must be j 
Not one of you his countiy again shall ever see. 
Not, one but the king's chaplain ; this well to us is known ; 
To Gunther's land in safety return shall he alone." 

1593. 
Then angrily Sir Hagan bespake her, frowning stem, 
" 'T were ill to tell my maatw^ what they'd disdain and spurn, 
That we should all in Hungary death Mid destruction find. 
Now show us o'er the water, wisest of womankind." 

1694. 
Said she, " since from this journey, it seems, thou wilt not turn. 
Up yonder by the river an inn thou may'st discern. 
A ferryman there dweUeth ; no others here abide." 
The knight believ'd her answer, and took her words for guide. 

1595. 
Him then the first call'd after aa gloomily he went, 
" Stay yet awhile, Sir Hagan, why so on haste intent ? 
Hear better our instructions to reach the tiuther strand. 
A margrave, that bight Elay, is lord of all this land. 



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272 TWEHTY-nriH adtentdhx. 

1598. 
He has a valiant brother (Sir Qelfrat men him eaU) 
A great lord in Bavaria ; ill might it you befall, 
If through his march you travel ; your coune with caution plan. 
And smoothly deal and gently with yonder ferryman. 

1597. 
He Bcairce will leave you Bcathlera (so fierce is he and rude) 
UuleaB with wnmd discretion you temper hia rough mood. 
Would you he'd put you over, pay down at once the fare. 
He IB a Mend of Gelfrat's and of this land has care. 

1598. 
And, should the ferryman tarry, across the river shout, 
And aay your name is Amelricb, whom late a fend drove out 
Perforce &om this his countiy, a knight of birth and fame. 
QooA speed will make thefenyman when once be hears the name." 

1599. 
For all reply Sir TT n g uT) to the wise ladies bow'd ; 
Then in his gloomy silence strode off the warrior proud. 
Still higher up the river along the sh^e he hied. 
Until a lonely hostel on th' other bank he spied. 

1600. 
^He str^ht across the water 'gan call with all his might, 
" Come, carry me over, ferryman," shouted the lust; knight. 
" Of ruddy gold an armlet I'll give thee for thy meed. 
Come, carry me, well thou knowest how pressing is my need." 

1601. 
The ferryman waa wealthy, to serve he scarce could bear. 
And hence it seldom happen'd he deign'd to take a fare. 
TTj n men were like their master, as moody and misproud. 
Still on this ride Sir Hagaa stood ever shouting loud. 



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HOW THE LOEDa ALL CAME MTO HUHaABT, 273 

1602. 
So loud and Btrong he shouted, that all the water rung, 
While the deep-chested warrior thus thunder'd from his tongue, 
" Come, put me o'er, I'm Amelrich, who Elsy serv'd and sued. 
The Btune who &om this countiy fled for a mortal feud." 

1603. 
High on his sword an armlet held out the champion bold 
(Bright waa it and glittering and ruddy all with gold) 
That he might be put over thence into Getfrat'a land. 
Then took the burly boatman himself an oar in hand. 

1604. 
He woe in sooth, that boatman, an ill-conditioa'd elf. 
Nothing leads men to ruin like hankering t^r pelf. 
He thought by ferrying Hagan his ruddy gold to get ; 
A sword-stroke for aa armlet, and death for gain he met. 

1605. 
With unewy might the boatman row'd o'er to yonder strand. 
But not the man he heard of sprung to the boat irom land. 
The ferryman wai'd furious when Hagan there he found ; 
Thus he beapake the hero, and speaking darkly frown'd. 

1606. 
" Your name it niay be Amelrich for ought I know," said he, 
" But you're like bim- 1 look'd for aa little as can be. 
In sooth he was my brother by lather and mother's side 
You've put a trick upon me, so on this bank shall bide." 

1607. 
" Nay, think again, for heaven's sake," Sir Hagan made reply, 
" In pain t<x sundry comrades a foreign knight am I ; 
So take my fare contented, and kindly put me o'er ; 
You'll bind me to your service, your friend for ev^more." 



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274[ TWINTT-FIFTH ASVEITTCBE. 

1608. 

" No, no," replied the fenyman, " it must not '&ith, be so j 
My good lords all around them have maaj a deadly foe ; 
For this, I ne'er put over BtnmgerB into this knd. 
So, aa your life you value, out with you to the Btnmd." 

1609. 
" Nay, speak not bo," said Hagon, " you see my drooping cheer ; 
Take of me, and weloome, the gold I huid you here, 
And ferry a thousand horaea and as many knighta of pride." 
" That will I do never," the ferryman grim replied. 

1610. 
With the word up caught he an oar both broad and long. 
And lent the knight a buffet bo sturdy and so strong. 
That in the boat he brought him at once upon his knee. 
Such a boisterous boatman never before met he. 

1611. 
Tet more the haughty stranger to wrath would he provoke. 
So on the head of Hagui a boat-pole next he broke. 
The ferryman of Elsy was sure a lusty wight, 
Yet nought but loss and ruin got he by all hia might. 

1612. 
The gnm knight up starting ended soon the &ay ; 
To the sheath quick grip'd he wherein his weapon lay. 
Off he his head has smitten, and to the bottom thrown. 
Soon were the ^ad tidings to the bold Burgundians known. 

1618. 
'The boat meanwhile, ere Hagan its master yet had slain, 
Had dropp'd into the current ; this wrought him mickle ptun, 
For, ere he round could bring it, &ant he to wax began. 
Yet strongly row'd and stoutly king Gunther's large-limb'd man. 



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now THE L0SD8 A.U. C4MB IKTO KtlSGAKT. 275 

1614. 

The brawtiy Btranger tura'd it with many a aturdy stroke, - 
Till in his grasp o'ermaatei'd the oar asimder broke. 
He long'd to reach his comrades at a near landing-place, 
But oar had ne'er another, bo this he join'd apace 

1615. 
With a shield-thong together (poor cord, hut workman good I) 
And then adowu the river made for a neighbouring wood. 
There his good lords the warrior found waiting on the strand ; 
Many a hold knight nm towards him as he drew nigh the land. 

1616. 
Him well hie comrades greeted beside the foamy flood, 
But when they saw the shallop reeking aU with blood 
From that grim wound, that sudden the ferryman did to death. 
They put a thousand questions to Hagan in a breath, 

1617. 
When beheld king Gimther the hot blood, how it ran 
About the hearing ferry, thus he str^ht began. 
" Here's a boat. Sir Hagan, but where's the boatman left ? 
Your sturdy strength, I fear me, the wretch's life hath reft." 

1618. 
With lying tongue he answer'd, " the shallop I espied 
Fast by a desert meadow ; myself the same untied. 
I have seen no boatman ; this I can truly say ; 
And harm to none has hsppen'd by &iilti <^ mine to-day." 

1619. 
Thereto the bold Bui^fundian Sir GFemot made reply, 
" To-day deep care besets me ; many a dear fiiend must die. 
With not a boatman ready to put our people o'er, 
'T were bard to cross the river ; this I must needs deplore." 
T 2 

">'-«!= 



276 TWENTY-FIFTH IDTENTUBB. 

1620. 

Loud. then shouted Hagan, " la^ down upon tlie grass 
Our riding-gear, ye yeomen ! I recollect I was 
Oo BJiine the best of ferrymen that e'er took oar in hand. 
Trust me, I'll put you over safe into Qreihet-'e land." 

1621. 
To make their passage quicker, the horses in a throng 
They drove into the river ; theee swam so well and strong, 
That by the forceful current the warriors lost not one ; 
A few down lower landed with weary toU foredone. 

1622. 
Long and broad and massy waa that huge ferry-boat. 
Five hundred men and better it all at once could float 
With their food and weapons fi*om sounding shore to shore. 
That da; many a good warrior perforce Btrain'd at the oar. 

1623. 
Aboard then plac'd the heroes their gold and eke their weed. 
The goal of dark destruction they sought with fatal speed. 
Hagan was master-boatman ; bis luckless skill alone 
Full many a gallant champion brought to that land unknown. 

1624. 
Noble knights a thousand first he ferried o'er, 
Thereto bis own stout foBowera ; behind still tarried more. 
Nine thousuid lusty Tu-leta he after brought away. 
The hand of him of Trony had little rest that day. 

1626. 
As the good knight thus deftly was putting o'er his freight. 
He thought on the strange warning he had receiv'd so Iat« 
From those wise river-ladies with their prophetic breath ; 
It brought king Gunther's chjiplain within a hair of death. - 



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HOW TBE LOBDB ALL. CAME IKIO HtnTOAtlT. 277 

1626. 
By his holj things close seated he found the prieBt at rest, 
"^th one hand gently leaning above a retiqne-cheet ; 
But in tiie grasp of Hagan that help'd him not the least. 
Sore TTong perforce he suffer' d, that hesven-forsaken priest. 

.1627. 
He caught and cast him over sooner than can be told. 
Many a voice loud shouted, " hold, hold, Sir Hagan, hold !" 
Wroth at the deed was Oiaelher, dame TTta's youngest Bon, 
But hold.vould not Sir Hagan till the mischi^he had done. 

1628. 
Then the bold Burgundisn the good Sir Gemot spake, 
" "What can it boot you, Hagan, the chaplain's life to take ? 
Had any other done it, he should have rued it straight. 
What can thus have mov'd you the hcJy man to hate ?" 

1629. 
Stoutly swam the chaplain ; to 'scape ne'er doubted he. 
Would any but assist him, but that was not to be ; 
Stem Hagaji, fierce and iurious, as close he swam along, 
Dash'd him to the bottom, wrong heaping still on wrong. 

1630. 
None there but thought it outrage, yet none came to Us aid, 
WHch when he saw, back turning for th' other bant he made ; 
Though ful'd his strength o'erwearied, yet Gtod'e almighty hand 
Back bore him through the billows, and brought him safe to land. 

1631. 
.There stood the poor clerk shivering, and shook his dripping weed. 
By this weU knew Sir Hagan that their dart doom decreed. 
As those wild mermaids wam'd him, 't was all in vain to shun. 
Thought he, "J;hese hopeful champians must perish every one." 



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278 TWENTY-FIFTH ADTEITTITfiE. 

1632. 

Boon as the bark was emptied, ani aS. the goods it bore 
By the three brethren'e Taaaala were safely bronght to Bhore, 
Stern Hagan broke it piecemeal and down the ciiTrent caet ; 
The good knights atar'd upon him, with wonder all aghast. 

1683. 
" What are you doing, brother f" Bankwart sodden cried, 
" How shall we croea the river, when back we have to ride 
To the Bhine &om Hungary our homes again to see P' 
Thereafter Hagan told him, that that was ne'er to be. 

1634. 
Then sud the knight of Trony, " I do it to this end, 
That, should a coward among ns upon this joum^ wend. 
Who would perchance desert ub through heart-appaUing fear, 
A shamefiil death may meet him in the wild waters here." 

1636. 
Then when the priest saw Hagan the baik in pieces break. 
Far o'er the boiling hiUows to the stem knight he spake, 
" ■What did I to you ever, base murderer," he began, 
" That yoa tiiis day attempted to drown a guiltless man ?" 

1636. 
Then answer gave Sir Hagan ; " now of this no more ; 
1 tell you on my honour, Sir Priest, it irks me sore 
That thus you have esc^'d me ; I neither jest nor feign." 
" For this God prais'd be ever !" said the poor chapeUin. 

1637. 
" I fear yon not, aesure you, though brought to death so nigh, 
Now on with you to Hungary ; over the Ehine will I. 
Ood grant you never thither come back, you knight untrue I 
' So hence with my worst wishes, for what you could not do !" 



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HOT SAKKWAUT BLBW OSLFKAT. 



"WitlL those undaunted squadrons frcun But%:und7 there came 
A bold quick-banded champion ; Folker -was his name. 
Whate'er be thought, out spake he with readf wit and light. 
All that was done hy ^i^gm, the minstrel held for right. 

1689. 
Their steeds were ready saddled ; their sumpters loaded too ; 
Not yet, throughout the journey, had one had cause to rue, 
Save only the king's chaplain, the nearly-drown'd divine j 
He plod muBt weary bomewarda, and foot it to the Bhine. 



TWENTT-SIXTH ADVEKTUEE. 

HOW DAFKWABT SLXIT OXLFBAT. 
1640. 

When now were all the warriors debark'd upon the strand, 
The king began to question ; " who now can through the land 
Direct us, lest we wander through wildering ways unknown F" 
Then answer'd valiant !Folker, "that taak be mine alone." 

1611. 
"Now guard you well," said Hagan, "yeoman as well as ktught, 
And follow friendly counsel, for thus it seems me right. 
News know I, sad to utter, and sad alike to learn. 
Not one of us shall ever to But^undy return. 

1642. 
'T was told me by two mermaids this mom without disguise, 
That back should we come never ; now hear what I advise. 
Take to your arms, ye heroes, and wend your wary way 
(Since here we have stout foemen) in battulous array. 



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280 TWKHTC-SIXTH ASTXITTirBX. 

1643. 
I thought to prove the mermaids, and catch them in a lie, 
"Who said that we in Hungary were surely doom'd to die, 
And that alone the chaplain should come to Bhenish ground, 
Bo him in yonder river I gladly would have drown'd." 

The woe-deuouncing tidings flew quick from rank to rank ; 
With ashen cheeks the wandors astonied Bat and blank, 
As on their death tiiey ponder'd by diamaL doom decreed 
Prom that disastrous journey ; each shudder'd on Ub steed. 

1645. 
'Twas near the town of Mcering thatthey the stream had cross'd; 
*T was there that Elsy's boatmfm his luckless life had lost. 
Then thus bespake them Hagau ; " this morning by the flood 
I made me certain enemies, so look for wounds and blood. 

1646. 
I slew that self-same boatman at early dawn to-day ; 
By this, all know the story ; so buckle to the fray ; 
If Qel&at here and Elsy our onward journey cross. 
Let it be, Burgundians, to their disgrace and loss. 

1647. 
I know them for so valiant that they will ne'er ahstiun, 
Bo let us pace our horses the slower o'er the pliun, 
That nobody may fancy we rather flee than ride." 
" That counsel will I follow," young Giselher replied. 

1648. 
"Butwho shallguide our parly? this country's strange and lone." 
All shouted, " that shall Folker (for well to him are known 
The highways and the byewaya) the hardy minstrel good." 
Th^ scarce had breath'd their wishes, when in hia armour stood 



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HOW DASKWAHT BLEW OELFBAT. 281 

1649; 
The ever-ready gleemaa ; hia helmet on lie bound ; 
He doim'd in haste hia hauberk that brightly flaeh'd around, 
And to hie Bpeor-Bhaft faeteU'd a pennon bloody red. 
Soon with the kings hia maaterB to a dismal doom he aped. 

1650. 
By tbia, to valiuit (M&at his boatman'a death waa known; 
Swift-wing'd are evil tidinga ; the newa aa soon had flown 
To the redoubted Elay ; aore griev'd thereat were both. 
Straight summon'd tbey their vaeaala ; all gatber'd nothing loth; 

1661. 
And I can well aaaure you, that acarce few hours were paat, 

Ere, to find the wrong-doera, were pricking fiery feat 

A aturdy troop of warriora long prov'd in war before ; 

&i aid of noble Qel&at seven hundred came or more. 
1652. 

All for revenge were thirsting, all eager for th' attack. 

Their warlike lords were foremost ; too hotly in the track 

They follow'd of those strainers, and learnt it to their cost. 

Many a good Mend soon after their valiant leaders lost. 
1663. 

Hagan the cautious Tronian their hasty counsels marr'd ; 

How could a vrarrior better hia Mends and kinsmen guard ? 

He took in charge the rearward, and there bis men arra/d 

With hia brave brother Dankwart ; aH with one soul obey'd. - 
1654. 

The day had sunk mid vanish'd ; 't was gloom and darkness all. 

He fear'd lest barm or danger hia comradea ahould befiill. 

Well muahall' d through Bavaria beneath their ahielda went they ; 

Yet in short time their foonen assail'd them by the way<';~ 



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282 TWXKTT-8IXTE ADTEHTlTItE. 

1665. 

On either side the highway, though nothing met their view, 
Hoofa heard they frequ^it trample, and close behind them too. 
Then out spoke fearless Sankwart ; " upon us is the foe ; 
Bind bat your helmets, wairioni ; prudence would h&ve it so." 

1656. 
Upoa their march they halted, for now thejr were bo nigh. 
That bucklers iaiiitlyglimmering they through the dark could spy, 
!N^or Icmger wish'd Sir Hagan in silence to abide. 
""Who hunts UB on the highway?" the deep-voio'd warrior cned. 

1657. 
The atom BaTarian mar^^ve Glelfmt gave answer back, 
" "We're Beeking out our fo^aen, and dose are on their track. 
1 know not who among you this morn my boatman slew ; 
He was a knight of prowess ; his loss I surely rue." 

1658. 
Then answer'd he of Trony ; " was that same fenyman thine ? 
He would not put uB over ; the guilt, if guilt, ia mine. 
I slew him, I confess it, but what besides could I ? 
Myself first hy his fury waa all but done to die. 

1659. 
I ofier'd gold and raiment for meed (what could I more 7) 
Into thy land, Bir Gelirat, if he'd but put us o'er. 
He flew into a fury, mid caught me o'er the crown 
With a heavy boat-pole, and knock'd me roughly down. 

1660. 
I snatch'd my sword in anger ; &om bis wrath I kept my li& ; 
A mortal wound I gare him ; this dos'd at once the strife. 
Yet such amends I ofier ae you think just and right." 
They bearken'd but to Tcngeance, burning with scorn and spite. 



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HOW DABKWAET BLEW OELFEAT. *rW 

1661. 

*' I knew full well," said Gelfrat, " if Gunther pasa'd along 
This coimtey with hie medny, that we should suffer wrong 
At the hands of Hagan ; 'ecape shall he not to-day ; 
He did to death the ferryman, and for the deed shall pay." 

1662. 
To smite aboTe the bucklers they coach'd their hmces straight. 
Gelfrat and Hagan both clos'd with eager hate. 
Elsy too and Dankwart each bore him like a knight ; 
Eachpror'dthe other's manhood; Btemand stubborn was thefight. 

1663. 
"Who better could defend them ? who better could assail ? 
Borne was the stalwart Hagan clean o'er his horse's tail, 
And on the grass lay floundering by Gelfiat's sturdy stroke. 
In the shock asunder his charger's poitral broke. 

1664. 
Then knew he what was 'fighting ; all round the lances crash'd ; 

From the green Sir Hagan upstarted, unabaah'd, 

Or rather fcitiHliTig courage from overthrow so rude. 

He tum'd, I ween, on Gelfrat, not in the mildest mood. 
1665. 

Who held them both their horses, is more than I can tell. 

To the ground the champions were both brought down from sello. 

They msh'd upon each other ; they mingled sw<»d and shield. 

Their comrades to the rescue flock'd round from aU the field. 
1666. 

However fiercely Hagan on noble Gelfrat sprung, 

A huge piece frtmi his bndder (loud with the stroke it rung) 

Was hewn by the stout margrave ; fire forth in sparkles flew ; 

The ferryman like to follow was Guuther's liegeman true. 



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284 TWBiraY-aiiTH adtentfee. 

1667. 
To the T&liimt Dankwait he shoated loud and high, 
" Help, help me, dearest brother, Tve just been like to die 
B7 a Btout-handed champion ; he'll let me ne'er go free." 
Thereto replied bold Dankwart, " then I'll your umpire be." 

1668. 
CloBe to them leapt the here ; nothing more he said ; 
Once his sword he lifted ; down dropp'd Gelfrat dead. 
Eby had tain reveng'd him, but forc'd was he to yield. 
He and his iW>Btruck eomradea fled that disaatrouB field. 

1669. 
Slain was his valiant brether, himself was wounded sore, 
Of his war-practb'd chmnpions eighty the best, or more, 
Lay with grim Death compauion'd ; what then beside could he 
But from the men of Gunther with loss and anguish flee ? 

1670. 
Soon as th^ of Bavaria gave way through ghastly fear, 
Behind them deadly sword-strekes loud ringing you might hear. 
Bo the bold men of Trony held their foes in chace, 
Who sought to 'scape the forfeit, and ever fled apace. 

1671. 
Then Dantwart thus behind them bud shouted o'er the plain, 
" Forthwith must we be wending back on our steps again ; 
80 let them fly imfi>llow'd, each bleeding aa he flies. 
While we rejoin our comrades ; this I in truth advise." 

1672. 
When back had come the warriors to where the fight had been. 
Thus spoke the knight of Trony, " chiefs, now 't were fit, I ween, 
To reckon up the missing, and learn whom we to-night 
Have lost through Gelfrat's anger in this sharp sudden fight. 



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HOW DAKKWAHT SLEW QELFBAT. 285 

X673. 

Four of their friends Iiad pensh'd, eligbt cause had th^ to pliun, 
For they had weU aveug'd them ; on th' other hand were sUin 
Of the repuls'd BavariAns a hundred men or more. 
The Bhields of theetout TronianB were dimm'd imd soak' d withgore. 

1674. 
From the clouds a moment broke out the gleaming moon ; 
" Weehallo'ertake/'said Hagan, "our Mends and comrades soon-, 
But none to my good masters speak of this hasty fray ; 
Let them without suspicion remain till dawn of day." 

1675. 
"When those who fought the battle had now rejoin'd the rest, 
They found them with long travail exhausted and oppress'd. 
"How long have we to journey ?" aaked many a champion brave ; 
" Here's neither host nor hostel,' ' was th' aiuiwer Sankwart gave. 

1676. 
"Xou all must until morning ride on as best you can." 
Neit sent the nimble Folker, tlie leader of the van. 
To ask the noble marshal, " where shall we lodge the crew 
To-night P where rest the faoraes and our good masters too F'* , 

.1677. 
Then answer gave bold Dankwart, " that's more than I con Bay ; 
Best must we ne'er a moment before the dawn of day. 
And, wheresoe'er we meet it, lie down upon the green." 
To most of those who heard bim 't was heavy news, I ween. 

1678. 
Long time renuun'd unnotic'd the stains of bloody red. 
Till the fair sun, up rising, his glittering radiance ^read 
At mom above the mountains ; at once the king espied 
That they had just been fighting, and ftill of anger cried. 



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286 TWENTY-aiXTH ABVBlfTDEE. 

1679. 

" How now, fiiend Hagon P bo jou, it eeems, disdiun'd 
To have me for your comrade, when thus with blood waa stun'd 
And dabbled all your hauberks ; who put you in that jdight p" 
Said he, " 't waa done by Elsy ; he fell on us last night. 

1680. 
To revenge hia ferryman this fierce assault he pluin'd ; 
There slain waa sturdy Gtelfrat by my good brother's huid. 
And ]BIsy scarce escap'd ua ; 'Mth he waa iU bestead. 
We lost but four companions, and he a hundred dead." 

1681. 
We know not, where that morning the warrioni laid them down. 
Straight leam'd all the people in country and in town. 
That noble Uta'a children to court were on their road. 
On them a hearty welcome was at Fassau soon beatow'd. 

1682. 
Wellpleas'd was bishop PUgrin, the uncle of the queen, 
That with so many champions, all caa'd in armour sheen. 
Hie proud Burgundian nephews had come into the land. 
Soon, what good will he bore thepi, he made them understand. 

1688. 
Along the roads to lodge them their Menda all did their best. 
At Fassau room was wanting to harbour every gueat ; 
They crosa'd perforce the water, where on an open ground 
Were haaty tents erected, and rich panli<niB pitch'd around. 

1684. 
They there were forc'd to tarry the space of one whole day. 
And eke the night till morning ; how well receiy'd wore they t 
Thence to the land of Budeger they were to ride mew. 
Swift to him the tidings of their coming flew. 



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HOW DANKWAKT SLEW QELFHAT. 287 

1686. 

"Wlien'the way-wewy warriorB had ta'en Bome needful rest, 
And now were close approaching the country of their quest, 
They found upon the border a man that sleeping lay ; 
Sir Hagffii sprung upon him, and took hia aword away. 

16S6. 
He was call'd Sir Eckewait, that eleep-oppreaaed knight ; 
Sore griev'd was he and downcast at his defenceless plight, 
Stripp'd of so strong a weapon, and at a stranger's will. 
They found the march of Budeger watch'd and warded ill. 

1687. 
" Woe's me for this dishonour !" the grief-struck warrior cried, 
" Alas that the Biu^gundians e'er hither thought to ride ! 
Sure, since I lost Sir SiegMed, aU joy is flown from me. 
Oh wekway, Sir Budeger, how have I injur'd thee !" 

1688. 
Sir Hagan scarcely winted to hear his sorrows through ; 
He gave him back his weapon, and sis red ajTmletstoo. 
" T&ke these, Sir knight, as tokens that thou my Mend wilt be ; 
Thou'rt a bold chirf to slumber thus lonely on the lea." 

1689. 
" Crod quit you for your unlets !" Sir Bckewart replied ; 
" Yet much, I own, it grieves me that to the Huns yon ride. 
You took the life of Sieg&ied ; all hate you deadly here ; 
As your true fiiend I warn you ; watch well, and wisely fear." 

1690. 
" Now Gk>d watch well and ward us," Hagui gave answer back ; 
" No cM^ have these good warriors, save for what now they lack, 
Tii and convenient quarters ; fain would we learn aright 
"Where we, both kings and subjects, may hope to lodge to-night. 



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TWENTT-8IITH ABTEtTTUEB. 



Onr steeds by this long journey are rom'd past a doubt," 
Said the bold wairior Eagau, " our stores are aU run out ; 
Hougbt'B to be had for money ; we need (or else we're sped) 
Some host, who of his goodness to-night would give us bread." 

1692. 
Straight Eckewart ma^ answer, " I'll show you such a host. 
That Bcareely could a better be found in any coast, 
Than he, who here, assure ye, you coining fain will greet. 
If you be pless'd, bold strangers. Sir I 



Ho dwells fast by the highway, and never yet on earth 
Was there a host more liberal ; his heart gives virtues birth. 
As meadows grass and flowerets in the sweet month of May, 
To do good knights good service he waxes blithe and gay." 

1694. 
Straight answer'd then king Ghinther, " will you a message take, 
To ask my dear friend £udeger, if he will fbr my sake 
Me and my kinsmen shelter and all this numerous clan ? 
To serve him ever after I'll do the beet I can." 

1696. 
'■ Fain will I do your bidding," Eckewart replied. 
With good will off he started ; veH his spurs he plied. 
And what he brought to Budeger he told without delay. 
To him no such ^ad tidings had come for many a day. 

1696. 
A knight towu^ Bechlaren spurr'd &st as &Bt might be ; 
Budeger himself diseem'd him ; " on yonder road," s^d he, 
" 'T is Eriemhild's liegeman Eckewart, that rides so hot a pace." 
He thougbt his foes had harm'd him, and held him stiU in chace. 



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HOW DAHKWAST BIiEW OELFBAT. 289 

1697. 

To tiie gate he liurried ; the knight there saw he stand, 
Wlio atiaight his sword ungirded, and laid it &om )m hand. 
The news that he brought with him he car'd not to withhold 
From the hoat and those about him, but strught his story told. 

1698. 
He thus bespake the margrave, " a message you I bring 
From my good master Gunther, the stout Burgundian king, 
And Giselher his brother and noble Gleniot too ; 
Every one of the warriors sends you his service true. 

1699. 
The same does also Hagan and Folker bold, as well, 
With firm entire devotion, and I besides must tell 
'What &om the king's marahal I have too in command, 
That need have the good yeomen of lodging at your hand." 

1700. 
Merrily laugh'd Sir Budeger as thus he made reply, 
" I joy to heaf these tidings, that kings so great and high 
Deign to request my service ; my zeal they soon shall see ; 
If they my dwelling enter, right bt^py shall I be." 

1701. 
" Dankwart the marahal also by me the number sends 
Of those, whoseek your homesteadwith yourBurgundianfriends ; 
Sixty nimble chunpions, good knights a thousand too. 
And yeomenfiillnine thousand." Bight glad the mai^rave grew. 

1702. 
" In truth I shall be happy," said noble Budeger, 
" To see guests of such worship in my poor dwelling here, 
To whom I have but rarely yet render'd service due. 
Xow ride ye forth to meet them, good friends and kinsmen true." 



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290 TWEMTY-BEVEUTH ABTEMTUBE, 

1703. 

'With that in haste they mounted ; forth flew squire and knight, 
Whate'er their lord commanded, that pass'd vith all for right ; 
The better thus their duties they did when need requir'd. 
Tet nothing knew dame Ckitelind, who sat in bower retir'd. 



TWENTY-SEVENTH ADVENTTTEE. 

07 BDSEQEa's HOBPITALITT. 
17M. 

Thebe linger'd not the margrave, but straight the ladies sought. 
His wife aud his fair daughter, and what good news he brought, 
By Eckewart deliver'd, told with exulting glee, 
How their good lady's brethren their guests were soon to be. 

1705. 
" My dearest love and lady," his tale he thus 'gan tell, 
" The noble kings approaching receive, as fits them, well. 
Since hither they are passing to court with all their clan; 
Accord too like &ir greeting to Hagan, Gnnther's man, 

1706. 
With them besides on duty comes one that Dankwart bight ; 
And yet a third eall'd Folker, a weU-train'd courtly knight. 
These eis. must you, dame Gotelind, and you, &ir daughter, kiss. 
Nor at your hands let any of fitting kindness miss." 

1707. 
That promis'd straight the ladies, and ready all things made. 
Large store of goodly raiment forth from the chests they laid. 
That they such noble warriors might meet in fit laray j 
Many a lovely lady bestiiT'd herself that day. 



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S HOSPITALITY, 291 

1708. 

How little spurious coburs on their fresh cheeks were foimd ! 
Far-glittering golden filleta about their heads they woimd, 
And in such goi^eous bondage eonfin'd their radiant hair, 
Lest the light frolic breezes should work disorder there. 

1709. 
So let us leave the ladies in no unpleasiEig toil. 
Meanwhile the friends of Eudeger swift scour'dthe sounding soil, 
Till, where they found the princes, they made a andJen stand. 
The guests were warmly welcom'd to the good margrave's land. 

mo. 

When to his home the margrave saw the Burgundians come, 
Eiuli^ng thus bespoke he the strangers all and some, 
" "Welcome, ye lords ! right welcome, you and your vassals too. 
Here in my land fidl gladly I see aueh friends as yon." 

1711. 
The brethren to his greeting their statdy heads inclin'd, 
To the loving love returning, and kindness to the kind. 
Apart he greeted Hagan, whom he had known of old ; 
The same did he to Polker the minstrel blithe and bold. 

1712. 
Last welcom'd he Sir Dankwart, who thus his host bespake, 
" Since you will give us shelter, 'pray who in charge will take 
The train we have brought hither, all is such weary plight i" 
Then answer'd him the margrave, " well will you rest to-night. 

1713. 
My people shall keep safely all you have hither brought, 
Silver and steeds and raiment ; you need not think of ought. 
Be Birce, I'll take such order, that loss shall none occur. 
. Tou'U not miss all among you as much aa half a spur. 
r2 

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3M TWBIlTT-81 V JSN TU ASTENTDBE. 

1714. 

So pitch your tents, ye yeomen, in the field apace ; 
"Whatever here is miBsing, I'll willin^y r^lace ; 
Off with bit and saddle — turn loose your weary steeds." 
Such a host had rarely supplied the iraoderer's needs. 

1715. 
"Wellpleaa'dwere the^urgundians; when all waa brought to pass, 
The lorda rode on together ; the yeomen on the grass 
lAid them down in clusters ; there to repose they fell ; 
I ween, in all their journey they ne'er had far'd so well. 

1718. 
And now from forth the castle the noble margravine 
Had gone with her fair daughter ; heside them there was seen 
Slany a lovely lady, wid many a smiling maid, 
All deck'd with store of bracelets, and in bright robes array'd. 

1717. 
FreciouB stones were sparkling ever and anon 
About their gorgeous raiment ; themselves yet brighter shone. 
Thither rode up the strangers and lighted instantly. 
Ah ! what high bearing had they, those chiefs of Burgundy ! 

1718. 
Six and thirty maidens and thereto many a dame, 
Each fjiir as wish could sigh for, or busy fancy frsme, 
Stepp'd forth to greet the atrangers with warriors msaj a one ; 
Their task by those high ladies with comely grace was done. 

1719. 
The margravine went forward, and kiss'd the kings all three; 
The like too did her daughter ; Hagan, the next was he. 
Her father bad her kiss him ; a glance od him she cast, 
And thought he look'd so dreadful, that him she &in had pass'd. 



OF BUDXaUB a HOapiTALITT. 293 

1720. 
At length perforce she did it, eince bo her father eaid, 
Yet could not but change colour, now waxiiig white, now red. 
She kisB'd too noble Dankwait, and Folker last in place. 
For hia strength and vabur the minstrel gain'd such grace. 

1721. 
Thia done, with gentle gesture the damsel meek aad mild 
By the hand, yet trembling, took Giselher the Child. 
Her mother took king Ghinther, the bold Burgundian lord. 
So with the knights the ladies mov'd thenc« in blithe accord. 

1722. 
The host went with Sir 6«niot into a spacious hall ; 
There both cbieft and ladies down eat together all. 
Straight to hia guests the margrave bad hand good wine around. 
Better entertainment knights yet never found. 

1723. 
There many a longing eye-glance from all sides might you see 
Bent on the margrave's daughter, so fresh and lair was she. 
Many a good knight was breathing for her the secret sigh ; 
In truth she well deaerv'd it ; her thoughts were pure and h^h. 

1724. 
Theymus'd just as it pleaa'd them, yet nought could thence be£ill. 
Alike meanwhile were glances cast by the knights in hall 
On other dames and dfuusels, whereof there sat good store. 
Soon show'd the noble minatrel what love the host he bore. 

1725. 
And now at laat they sever'd, as custom there requir'd ; 
Ladies and knights, as fitted, to separate rooms retir'd. 
In the broad hall the tables in order straight were set ; 
There soon the noble strangera all lordly service met. 



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ADTEHTUEE. 
1726. 

To grace her gueeta, at table the noble hostess kind 
Took place, but left her daughter, as fitted best, behind 
Among her blooming maidens, with whom retir'd she sat. 
The guests, who joy'd to see her, were little pleaa'd with that. 

1727. 
With meats and drinks abuadaut theb fill had feasted all ; 
Then back the lovely ladies were usher'd to the hall ; 
Nor comely mirth there wanted, nor merriment, nor jest. 
The gentle knight Sir Folker there shone above the rest. 

1728. 
Then out spake to Sir Bud^er that minstrel bold and true, 
" High and puissant margrave, God sure has dealt with you 
As one whom most be favours, since he so fair a wife 
Has given you for a helpmate, and bless'd with joy your life. 

1729. 
If I were a monarch and if a crown I wore," 
Said the good knight, "no maiden should be my queen before 
Tour fair and gentle daughter ; my heart's desire I tell ; 
Lovely is she to look on, high-bom and nurtur'd well." 

1730. 
Then spake the noble margrave, "what chance could ever biing 
To woo my child beloved a proud and puissant king ? 
My wife and Z are cjcilee, both worn with age and cms;. 
And can give her nothing ; what boots then all her fair ?" 

1731. 
Thereat the courteous Gemot took up the word and spake, 
" If I deair'd a helpmate after my heart to take, 
None would I ask more ghidly than this same modeatmaid." 
Thereupon Sir Hagan ia courtly fashion said, 



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OF BtTBEOEB'S HOSPITAI.ITT, 203 

1732. 

" Now fits it my lord Qiselber to take a bride, I ween, 
And Bure bo higb-deBcended ia the young margnTine, 
That I and all his vaesala would do her homage fain, ■ 
If crown'd we were to eee her in our Burgundian reign." 

1733. 
Well pleas'd was good Sir Bndeger Sir Hagan's words to hear, 
So too was lady Qotelind ; right joyous was her cheer. 
Soon so the chiefs contnT'd it, that Giselher, nothing loth. 
To wife took the fair maiden, as well beseem'd them both. 

1734. 
When once a thing is settled, who further can gainsay P 
Forthwith they bad the damsel to court to take her way. 
Then for his wife to give hi"i the lovely maid they swore. 
Then he too Tow'd to cherish and love her evermore. 

1736. 
Next dower' d was the fidr maiden with castles and with land ; 
With an oath aesurance was giv'n by Ghmther's hand, 
As well as by lord Gemot's, that so it should be done. 
Then said the noble margrave, " since castles I have none, 

1736. 
With you wiU I for ever a fiiithful fiiendBhip hold; 
A hundred sumptera' burden of silver and of gold 
(No unbefitting portion) I'll give the gentle bride, 
So that the bridegroom's warriors may well be satisfied." 

1737. 
Then had the bride taid bridegroom within a ring to stand, 
!For such was then the custom ; a merry stripling band 
Encircled the fair couple, and gaz'd on them their fiU, 
And thought the while as idly as think young people still. 



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290 TWENTX-SETSNTH ADVEITTDBE. 



1738. 

Kow vhea was aek'd the damBel in homely phrase and pbun, 
If she would have the warrior, she felt a moment's pain ; 
Not that she was unwilling to take the stately one ; 
She blush'd but at the question, as masy a maid has done. 

1739. 
Her &ther Bud^er told her at once to answer, " Yes," 
And that she fain would take him. In a trice with tendemesa 
Young Oiselher around her, the shrinking and the coy, 
Lock'dhiswhite hands together; alas! how fleeting waath«r joy! 

1740. 
Then spake again the margrave, " ye rich and noMe kings, 
"Wlien you, aa is the custom, after your rerdlings 
Betum by uB to Bhineland, I'll give my child to you. 
To take her in your party." They promia'd so to do. 

I74J. 
The meny sound erf revel was hnsh'd perforce at last. 
"With mincing step the maidens &>ri)h to their chambers paas'd, 
And eke in rest the strangers slept on till break of day. 
Then the first meal was ready ; none better &r'd than they. 

1742. 
Their &st they scarce had bn&en, when they at once would start 
Por the realm of Himgary ; "you must not thus depart," 
Said the good host Sir Eudeger ; " awhile here tarry yet, 
Such gaestB sad so beloved but seldom have I met." 

1748. 
" That must not be," said Dankwart, " your ruin you design, 
Wh^^ can you find provisiouB, bread as well as wine. 
If day by day an army is eating up your store ?" 
Soon as the host had heard him, he stud, " talk thus no more. 



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OF BUDEOXB'a HOePITALITT. 207 

1744. 
Nay, thus to refUse me, my dear lordii, do not tlunk ; 
Tot fourteen daya together I'll find yon meat and drink. 
You, and oU those about you, yoor Tell-[q>pointed train. 
Full little of my HnbBtasce has yet king Btzel ta'en." 

1745. 
"Whate'er excuBe th^ offer'd, there perforce they etay'd 
Feasting till the fourth monung ; then well their host diapUy'd 
His fiff-reoowned bounty, and to his parting guests 
Gave without stint for presents proud steeds and gorgeous vests. 

1746. 
This now could last no longer ; thence must they forward fare. 
Litfle his custom'd bounty did then the margrare spare. 
All then was had for asking ; that mom denied was none ; 
All Jdndness and all honour to every guest was done. 

1747. 
And now their noble meiny brought up before the gate 
Store of good chargers saddled ; thither to swell their state 
Flock'd troops of foreign champions, aU bearing shield in hand. 
All with the Bhenish brethren bound to king Etzel's land. 

1748. 
The noble host in plenty proffer'd his gifts te all 
Before the noble strangers came outside the hall. 
With open hand liv'd Budeger, stout heart, and honour clear; 
He now his lovely daughter had given to Giaelher. 

1749. 
Then gave he valiant Gemot a sword &11 sharp and bright, 
Which soon the bold Bui^^undian bore manAilly in fight. 
That so her husband gave it, well pleased the margrave's wife. 
Alas I the fatal present cost Bud^;er his life. 



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298 TWBSTT-HETENTH AJ>Vi:HTUB£. 

1750. 

Then to the great king Chinther he gave &om out hia store 
A mailcoat, that with honour the eturdy champion wore. 
But seldom could the monarch to take a present brook. 
Yet at the hand of Budeger ttiis with warm thanks he took. 

1751. 
Then Gotelind, as was fitting, offer'd with fab accord 
A parting gift to Hagan, that, like the Ving hia lord, 
He too not empty-handed to Etzel'a court might ride. 
But he declin'd the present, and to the dame replied, 

1752. 
" I ne'er saw ought, fair lady, however rich and rare. 
That it would more content me hence as mj own to bear, 
Than yonder well-form'd buckler that hangs on yonder w^. 
To take that shield to Hungary would please me most of all" 

1753. 
Soon as the lady Gotelind heard Hagan'a accents deep, 
They brought to mind her sorrow; she coidd not choose but weep. 
Then thought she on bold Ifudung, by mightier Wittieb slain, 
And to her wounded bosom the smart retum'd again. 

1764. 
Thna she bespake Sir Hagan, " that shield I &eely give, 
And would to Qod the warrior among us still did live, 
Who bore it erst in battle ; dead on the field he lay ; 
Him must I weep forever, mourning my life away." 

1755. 
Then &om her seat she totter'd ; her limbs vith anguish shook ; 
The shield of ber lamented in her white hands she took. 
And carried it to Hagan ; he grasp'd the gift she gave, 
Giv'n and receiv'd in honour, and fitting well the brave. 



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OF BTFDEOBB S nOaPITALlTT. 299 

1756. 

A reil of glittering samite its varied hues conceal'd ; 

Never had the daylight ahone on a better shield. 

With precious stones far-beaming 't waa richly deck'd all o'er. 

It could not have been purchas'd for a thousand marks or more. 
1757. 

So by command of Uagtui the shield away was ta'en. 

Then came to court Sir Dankwart among the parting tnun. 

To him gave Budeger's daughter robes richly broider'd o'er, 

"Which 'midat the Huna thereafber in joyous mood he wore. 

1758. 
Of all the gifts that morning beatow'd on every guest, 

Kot one by those Burguudians had ever been possesa'd, 
But by the margrave's bounty, which ao by proof they knew. 
Soon they became such foemen, that they the giver slew. 

1759. 
And now the valiant Folker with high-bred courtly grace 
Stepp'd forth before dame Ootelind, and, standing there in place, 
His sweetest tones attemper'd, and sang his choicest lay, 
'Ere he from Bechlaien took leave and went his way. 

1760. 
With that the gentle hostess bad bring a casket near ; 
(Of friendly gifta and bounty and kindness you most hear ;) 
From this she took twelve braceleta,and drew them o'er his hand; 
"These you must take, and with you bear hence to Etzel'a land, 

1761. 
And for the sake of Gotehnd the same at court must wear. 
That I may learn, when hither again you all repair, 
What service you have done me in yon assembly bright." 
The lady's wish thereafter fiill well perform' d the knight. 



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800 TWIITTT-SETEBTH ASTEITTIIBE. 

X762. 

Then the noble murgraTe his parting gneata beftpake, 
" That ;roii ma,j ride the safer, myself the chai^ will take 
To guide you, lert from robhera you suffer by the road." 
With that upon his sumpters in baste was laid their load. 

1768. 
The host he soon was ready vith full five hundred men 
"Well hors'd and well apparell'd ; them led he merrily then 
To the proud feast of Etzel, and they him folloVd iain ; 
Not mie of them came living to Bechlarrai back sgadn. 

1764. 
The host from home departed with many a loving Uss ; 
The like did also GHselher ; hia honour counsell'd this. 
Sach to his beating bosom his trembling lady presa'd. 
That parting planted sorrow in many a rii^ breast. 

1765. 
All windows in Bechlaren now flew open wide. 
Straight would to horse the mai^rare, and with his warriors ride. 
I ween, their hearts that moment their coming doom forebode. 
Many a dame and many a damsel loud aobb'daa forth they rode. 

1766. 
E'en for their best beloved in heart they sorrow'd sore, 
For those, whom at Bechlaren they were to see no more. 
Tet merrily the champions prick'd along the strand 
Dovmwards beside the Danube to reach the Hunnish land. 

1767. 
Then thus to the Bnrgnndians out spake the stately kni^t, 
Budeger the noble, " methinks, it were but right 
We should announce we're coming e'en now to Hunnish ground; 
More pleasantly no tidings in Etzel'a ear vrill sound." 



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OF BirDEQEB'S HOSPITAlITr. 301 

1768. 
Straight adown througli Austria he bad a courier ride ; 
At once among the people 't was publisVd fu* snd wide, 
That coming were the beroea from Worms bejond the Bhine. 
Bight glad were Stzel's Tassale, and those of £tzel's line. 

1769. 
"With the news the conriers foriih gtdlop'd hastily. 
That the Xibelungera were now in Hungaty. 
" Well should'st thou receive them, Kriemhild, lady mine ! 
They come to do thee honour, theae brethren dear of thine." 

1770. 
Dame Ejiemhild at a window was standing ther« to view ; 
She look'd out for her kinsmen aa friend for friends will do. 
From her native country saw she many a man. 
The king too heard the tidings and for joy to laugh began. 

1771. 
" Now I at last am happy," exdaim'd th' exulting queen ; 
" Hither are come my kinsmen with many a mailcoat sheen. 
And many a new-made buckler ; who would for gold endeavour, 
L^ Tii'in my wrongs remember, and I'll b^end him ever. 

1772. 
Tes ! I will so contrive it, to take revenge for all 
At this same feast of Etzel's (whate'er thereafter fall) 
On his abhorred body, who so the traitor play'd, 
And all my joy so blasted.— I shall be now repaid." 



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TWENTY-EIOHTH ADVENTTJRB. 

HOW EKOEUHILD UEOEITBD HAOAIT. 
1773. 

"Wheh now the bold Burgimdiana had come into the iMLd, 
He of Bern soon heard it, the aged Hildebnind ; 
He told his lord the tidinga ; aore griev'd it the good knight ; ' 
He hegg'd him the stout strangera receive as best he might. 

1774. 
Straight to bring up the horses quick Wolfhart order gave ; 
Then forward prick'd with Dietrich full many a champion brave 
Thence to the field to greet them; as fidenda to friends they went. 
There had they piteh'd already fiill many a gorgeous tent. 

177S. 
Them riding thus at distance soon as Sir Hagan spied. 
Thus he his courteous counsel unto hia lords applied. 
" Now every one, ye warriors, down inatant from hia seat. 
And these, who'd bid you welcome, go forth yourselves to meet. 

1776. 
Well know I yon bright meiny, whom here we have at hand ; 
They are the choicest warriors of th' Amelungers' land. 
The lord of Bern rides foremost ; high-mettled chiefii are they, 
So scorn not what feir service they proffer you to-day." 

1777. 
Then down from horse alighted, as fitting was and right, 
"With the redoubted Dietrich many a good squire and knight. 
All to the noble strangers went forward hastily, 
And courteously saluted the lords of Burgundy, 



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now KBTEHHILD BECETYED H&OAIT. 303 

1778. 
Soon as discem'd Sir Dietrich how they to meet him came, 
Now you would hear full gladly what words that chief of fwne 
Spoke to the boub of TJta ; their journey griev'd him sore ; 
The truth, he thought, Sir Budeger had known and told before. 

1779. 
" Welcome, ye lords, right welcome, G-unther and G«niot true, 
And Giselber and Hagan, the like to Folker too, 
And ever-ready Dankwut. Do you not understand 
That Kriemhild still moums deeply the chief of Niblungland ?" 

1780. 
" "Why she will weep for ever," Sir Hi^an made reply, 
" 'T is many a year, Sir Dietrich, since he was done to die. 
She now has got king Etzel ; of love she cannot lack ; 
Siegfried is dead and buried, and never can come back." 

1781. 
" Just now let ua, I prithee, leave Siegfried's wounds alone," 
The lord of Bern Sb Dietrich replied in earnest tone, 
" As long as lives dame Kriemhild there's tear of mortal iJl, 
Trust of the Nibelungers ! watch and be wary still," 

1782. 
" Why watch, and why be wary ?" the lofty king replied. 
" Etzel sent ua envoys (what should I ask beside P) 
To say, that with our visit he would be well content ; 
And by them many a message my sister- Erimhild sent." 

1783. 
" To my advice," said Hagan, " I pray you, now give ear. 
Entreat our friend Sir Dietrich and his good warriors here 
Of their suspicious tidings the utmost scope to show, 
That we may come more fully dame Ejiembild'e mind to know." 



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904 TTEHTT-HQHTH ADTZBTrBE. 

1784. 

Then the three kingB, retiring, to separate converse drew, 
Ghmther and Gemot and good Sir Dietrich too. 
" Nov tell uB, we beseech thee, right noble knight of Bern, 
How thou hast been able queen Kriemhild'a mind to learn." 

1785. 
The lord of Bern thus answer' d, " what have I now to aay ? 
I hear the wife of Etzel every break of day 
To the great God of heaven sob oat her dreary tale. 
And for the loaa of Si^fried yet ever weep and widl." 

1786. 
" What's donecanne'er be nndone," spoke out the minstrel bold. 
The death-defying Folker, " for all we've just been told. 

So to court let's onward, and manAilly abide 

Whate'er may us stout champions among the Quns betide." 
1787. 

So the bold Bui^undians to court thence took their way 

After their country's iaahion in pomp and proud array. 

Many a stout knight of Hungary among the gazers came 

To look on Troniau TTagan, and mark hifi warrior frame. 
1788. 

Of him among the courtiers were rumours not a few, 

That he it was who Siegfried the If^etherlander eHew, 

The strongest of all champions, dame Eriemhild's husband bdd. 

Hence much was there among them of Hagan aak'd and told. 
1789. 

Well grown and well compacted was that redoubt«d guest; 

Long were his legs and einevy, and deep and broad hia diest. 

His hair, that once was sable, with grey was dosh'd of Ute, 

And terrible his visage, and l<nd]y waa his gait. 



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HOW SBTEHHILS BECEIVED HAOAIT. 306 

1790. 

And now the bold Burgundianfi vdth shelter were supplied.' 
The knigbta were iodg'd together, the rest were Bunder'd wide. 
Through Ejiemhild'ehate to Gimtherwaaplann'dthiasubtle train, 
That easier in their quarters the yeomen might be slain. 

1791. 
Danbwart was the marshal, Hagan's brother brave ; 
The chaj^ of the stout yeomen to him king Q-uutfaer gave. 
That all might well be tended, and each might have his fill. 
The chief of the Burgundians bore all his train good will. 

1792. 
KriemhUd the lovely with all her meiny went, 
Where she the Nihelungera reeeiv'd with false intent. 
She kias'd her brother Giaelher and took him by the hand. 
That seeing drew Sir Kagan more tight his helmet's band. 

1793. 
" Sure aFber such a welcome," thus Hagan sternly spake, 
" MethiukB for men of action 't were fitting, thought to take. 

Greeting kdngB and subjects in such a difierent guise t 

I fear our journey hither will hardly pass for wise." 

1794. 
"Tothose who &in would see you," said Kriemluld, "welcome he; 
Look not for friendly greeting for your own sake from me. 
But tell me what you've brought me from "Worms beyond the 

Bhine, 
That you so warm a welcome should find from me or mine.'*^ 

1795. 
" "Why these word8,my lady?" said Hogan, "what's theirdriftP" 
Tbatall these knig^tsfromBhinelandshould bring yon eachagiftP 
I knew you were so wealthy, and liv'd eo royally, 
I need not bring you presents as fiir as Hungaiy." 



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806 TTXITTT-EI&HTH AJ)TEHTTJBE. 

1796. 

" Tben witli this one plmn question your memory I nmat goad. 
' The Nibelungera' treaaure — ^where have you that beatow'd ? 
That wftB my own poasesaion ae well you understand. 
'T waa that you should have brought me hither to Etzel'a land." 

1797. 
" I'&ith, my lady Kriemhild, 'tis noT fldl many a day 
Since in my power the treasure of the Nibelungera lay. 
In &ie Bhine my lords bad sink it ; I did their bidding fain, 
And in the Bhine, I warrant, till doomsday, 't will remain." 

1798. 
Thenthusthe queen made answer, "that was just what I thought. 
Little of it, ay, little hare you hither brought, 
Though 't was my own, unquestion'd to keep or give away. 
I've had for it much sorrow and many a dreary day." 

1799. 
" The devil a board I bring you," aaid Hagan the utem knight ; 
" I've qiuto enough to carry in my mmlcoat bright 
And in my trusty buckler ; my hand must wield the sword. 
My head support the helmet; — how could I bring your hoard !" 

1800. 
" Think not I stir this matfter because for gold I care ; 
To give haye I such plenty, your gifts I well can spare. 
One murder and two robberies ! I have been beggar'd thrice 1 
Far these to the last &rthing poor I demand the price." 

1801. 
Then the queen of Hungary bespake the warriora all ; 
" No wei^ns may be carried, ye knights, into the haJL 
I'll have them kept in safety, bo give them up to me." 
" In truth," replied Sir Hagan, " that ahall never be. 



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HOW KKI£MH1LD EBCEIVZD HAflAN. 307 

1802. 

I long not for the hononr that & qoeen so great and fair 
My shield and other armoor should to my quwiers bear. 
Not 80 my father taught me ; ever of old aadd he, 
Let none hat thou, son Hagao, thy armour-bearer be." 

1803. 
" Oh ! TOO la me imhappy," buret dame Kriemhild out, 
"My brethrenhere andHagan, why^shouldthey shrink and doubt P 
Not trost me with their bucklers ? — they have been wwu'd, I see; 
If I but knew who did it, death should be his fee." 

1801. 
Thereto, infiam'd with anger, retum'd Sir Dietrich brave, 
" 'T was I that the waming to the noble princes gave, 
And to their liegeman Hagan, to whom such haste thou bear'st. 
Now up, ^e-fiend ! be doing, and harm me if thou dar'st I" 

1806. 
Seep blush'd the wife of Etzel for uiger and for shame ; 
Much she fear'd Sir Dietrich, that veugeance-breathing dame ; 
Norword she apake, but, turning with many a sharp, quick glance 
Ever as thence she parted glared on her foes askance. 

1806. 
Then two clasp'd hands as frankly as brother does with brother ; 
The one was good Sir Dietrich, Sir Hagsn was the other. 
Then spoke the lofty Bemer with courteous words and true i 
" In Booth your coming hither light bitterly I rue, 

1807. 
Through that which with such malice the rengeiid queen let fall." 
Straight answer'd he of Trony, " 'feith, there 's a cure for all." 
Such words unto his fellow spoke either mighty man. 
King Etzdl had obserr'd tkem, and thus to ask began. 

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808 TWESTT-EIOHTH ABTKITTDaK. 

1808. 
" Pain would I leam," aaid Etzel, " if any here can tell. 
Who ia that champion yonder, whom Dietrich greets bo well. 
He is a man of mettle as 1 can guess by sight ; ' 

Whoevw is his father, sure he's a peerless knight." 

1809. 
Then spake a man of Ejiemhild's, " I'll tell you all I can. 
That knight was bom at Trony, his sire waa Aldrian. 
Though now he plays the courtier, he ia s champion stem. 
That I've not lied unto you, Sir King, you soon may leam." 

1810. 
" That he's so stem a champion, how cmi I ever see F" 
Of all the craft and cunning nothing yet knew he. 
Wherewith about her kinsmen the queen her toils had wound. 
That not a sonl among them came back &om Hunnish ground. 

1811. 
" Well knew I once good Aldrian ; my man was he Of yore. 
With me much praise and honour obtain'd he heretofore ; 
'T was I, a knight who dubb'd him, and gave him of my gold. 
I could not but beMend him for true was he and bold. 

1812. 
So all that touches Hagan, I've known for many a year. 
Of old two noble children my hostages were here. 
He and the Spaniard Walter ; here each grew up to man. 
At last I sent home Hagan ; Walter off with Hildgund ran." 

1818. 
So thought the king with pleasure on what had happ'd of yore. 
His former Mend of Trony he gladly saw once more, 
Who with high deeds of knighthood in youth had serr'd his ends. 
But in age spread wide destruction among his dearest Mends, 



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T-WENTT-NINTH ADTENTXJflE. 

BOW KXaiS SBFUSED TO BIBE TO EBISMHILD. 
1814. 

Theb ported the bold couple, both hardy knighta and stem, 
Hagan the chief of Trony, and Dietrich lord of Bern- 
Then, looking o'er hia shoulder, king Gimther's liegeman eyed 
The crowd to find a comrade, whom in a trice he apied. 

1816. 
Polker the skilfiil minstrel he saw by CHaelher stand, 
And pray'd him to come with him apart &om all the band. 
For well he knew his fierceness and danger-daring mood. 
He was a knight in all things of dauntless hardihood. 

1816. 
They left the lords assembled where in the court they stood ; 
Alone retir'd this couple of hardy knights and good, 
And croaa'd the cotut &r distant, and reach'd a palace fair. 
Of hostile spite or outrage nought reck'd the peerless pair. 

1817. 
Before the house down sat they upon a bench hard by, 
Facing a hall of Krieuihild's ; a fairer ne'er met eye. 
Bright from their stately persons their glittering armour shone. 
Eachknightwould^nhaTeknownthemof allwho there look'don. 

1818. 
As on wUd beasts, grim rangers of wood or dreary wold. 
The whispering Huns at distance gaz'd on the champions bold. 
Queen Eriemhild from a window espied them thus apart^ 
And a frown o'ercast her beaul?, and passion shook hex heart. 



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810 TWENTT-irnJTH ABTKBTTB. 

1819. 
She thongbt on aU her sorrowa, and atraiglifc began to weep. 
There many a man of Dtzel's stood loet in wonder deep. 
All ask'd, what so disturb'd her, and chang'd her cheer anew. 
" Hagan,' ' she anawer'd, " Hagan, ye warriors bold and true \" 

1820. 
ThoB they beepake their lady, " how can thia have been F 
But now we saw you merry and blithe of mood, fiiir qneen. 
How bold Boe'er the warrior who has wrong'dking Etzel's wife, 
Give bat the word of vengeance, and cost shall it his life." 

1821. 
" Thanks, warriors, thanks for ever ! on him who wreaka my woe, 
AU that be can ask for straight will I bestow. 
At your feet I throw me," sobbing thus she spake, 
" Bevenge me on this Hagan, and slay him for my aake." 

1822. 
Straight ready made for mischief raxtj mea (^ might ; 
Instant wonld th^ have hastrai'd in foir Kriemhild's ri^t 
To take the life of Hagan, that redoubted one, 
And of the fearlees gleeman ; with forethought bH was done. 

1823. 
But when the queen survey'd them, and found the band m few. 
Thus she, amidst her fiiry, bespake her Mends anew. 
" Be still awhile, ye warriors ! your martial mood restrain j 
Ne'er can a troop so scanty stem H^ian's might sustain. 

1824. 
Strong is the knight of Trony, and oft in battle tried, 
Bnt stnmger yet the warrior who sits him there beside, 
Folker the valiant gleeman ; he is a dangerous man. 
Attadc them not so rashly ; first muster all yoa can." 



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HOW HAQAH RErDSBS TO EIBS TO EBIEHHIUI. 311 

1825. 
Thej bearken'd to her waming ; tlien manj mcve came on, 
Till Toand lier knights four hundred in bumiah'd armour ahone. 
The fliriouB queen was longing her rage on both to aate ; 
Thence came the chie& soon after to stand in deadly strait. 

1836. 
"When so she sanr her meinjr each in his bamesa stand, 
ThfiB she sternly smiling bespake t^' impatient band. 
" "Wait yet, my fiiends, a moment, en with yon pair you dose ; 
Hy crown upon my temples will I confront my foea. 

1827. 
Ilrst hear, and from the doer, whose hand my heart has torn. 
The wrongs, that I from Hagan, my brother's man, have home. 
I know him for BO hanghty, that out he'll spegk them all ; 
And I too care as little what thence on him may &U." 

1828. 
When that redoubted minstrel, who kept good watch, I ween, 
Descending swift a staircase beheld the noble queen. 
And thence beyond the threshold — ^when he this espied. 
In a trice bespake he his comrade by his side. 

1829. 
"Looktherel lookthere! friendHaganl howhither there she hies, 
Who to this land has drawn us with fiiendly-seeming lies 1 
Queen yet saw I never begirt with such a band, 
^ch marching as to battle with naked sword in hand. 

1880. 
Know you that here, friend Hagan, you're hated bitterly ? 
So keep you all the better from force or treachery ; 
Iiook to your life and honour ; this is what I advise ; 
They're coming on in anger if rightly I surmise. 

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TWIlTTr-SIHTII ADVEMTUEE. 
1881. 



And mBny there are among them bo broad across tbe cheat — 

]f ve are to defend ua, 't is time to do our beat. 

Each about his body a shining mailcoat wears, 

But whom therewith they threaten, not a tongue declarea." 

1832. 
Thereto in wrath Sir Hagan gave answer stem and proud, 
" "Well know I, wherefore mustera yon armouivbearing crowd ; 
'Gainst me they gird the hauberk uid wave the sword on high. 
Yet back again to Khineland in qiite of them will I. 



Tell me now, firiend iFolker, will you stand me by, 
If these men of Ejiemhild'e would my mettle try P 
8how me, if you love me, iaith&l friend and true ! 
And when you need my aerrice I'll do as much for you." 

1834. 
" To death will I stand by yon," the minBtrel answer made, 
** Though came the Hng against ns with all his knights to aid. 
Am long as life is in me, to fight I wiU not alack. 
Nor from your side for terror one foot will I give back." 

1885. 
" Now God in heaven requite you, good friend in danger tried ! 
Let them come on, and welcome ; what can I need bedde ? 
If Folker is my second, as I rejoice to betu-, 
Ton knight*, methinks, will ponder before they venture near." 

1836. 
•' To rise would now become us," the gleeman straight replied ; 
" She is a king's companion, and nobly bom beside. 
As a queen and a lady, such honour is her due. 
By £tly doing honour we both shall gain it too." 



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now HAOAN BEFUSED TO EISE TO KKIEUUILD 313 

1887. 

" Nay, as you love me, Tolker," said Hagan, "do not bo. 

Were we to rise an instant in fece of yonder foe, 

Th^'dfwicy wewere flinching.and that through fear 'twere done. 

Here will I sit before them, and rise will I for none. 
1838. 

Sure it becomes us better here as we are to wait. 

How can I ever honour who bears me deadly hate ? 

That will I do never as long ae I have life. 

I care not, I, a tittle for the wrath of Dtzel's wife." 
1839. 

Across his legs his broadsword o'erweening Hagan laid, 

A keen well-temper'd weapon ; on the pummel fair display'd 

A beaming precious jasper, greener than grass, it bore. 

At a glance did EJiemhild know it for that which Sieg&ied wore. 
1840. 

At the aght she started ; nigh her senses fled ; 
Golden was the handle, the scabbard trimm'd with red ; 
It brought back all her sorrow ; her tears began to flow. 
For that> I ween, had Hagan laid out the weapon so. 

1841. 
On the b^ich beside him Folker the swift and strong 
A fiddlestick graap'd closer, massy and broad and long, 
As sharp as any razor, much like a battle-blade. 
There aat the lofty couple unmov'd and undismay'd. 

1842. 
So proud they felt together that pair of champions bold, 
That rise would they never for one of mortal mould. 
Strugbt up to them went Eriemhild, scuue deigning to beetow 
The stem contemptuous greeting that foe accords to {be. 



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814 TWEHXr-mHTB ADTBSTDBE. 

1318. 

Said Bhe, " now b&j, Sir Hagain, who haa sent foF y on, 
That yon have dar'd hither to come with yonder crew f 
And yet you must remember all you hare doae to me. 
Had you been in yout seuaea, you'd sure have let it be." 

1844. 
"'Tib true," straight anawer'd Hagaa, " no one sent for me. 
To thia land were invited royal brethren three ; 
My lords are those three brethren, and their mui am I, 
And courts they seldom visit bat Hagan must be by." 

1846. 
Said she, " now tell me fiirther, why did you that ill deed. 
That my undying hatred has won you, fitting meed P 
'T was you that did Sir Sieg&ied, my noble husband, slay. 
For whom must I for ever weep to my dying day." 

1846. 
Said he, " why question further P that were a waste of breath. 
In a word, I am e'en Hag&n, who Sieg&ied did to death. 
How dearly pud the wairior, the best good knights among, 
For all fiiir Brunhild suffer'd irom lady Ejiemhild's tongue ! 

1847. 
What I have done, proud princess, I never will deny. 
The cause of all the mischief, the wrong, the loss, am I. 
So now, or man, or woman, revenge it whoso wiU ; 
I scorn to speak a falsehood, I've done you grievous ill." 

1848. 
Said she, " you hear it, warriors, how he confesses all. 
All the wrong he did me ; what thence may him befidl, 
To me it nothing matters, ye knights, Wng Etzcl's best !" 
The haughty Huns stood doubting, aad each look'd on th&rest. 



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HOW HAOAK £EFtrS£D TO B1BE TO EBIBMUIT.D. SIS 

1849. 

"Wliate'er had then be&llen, had once the strife begun, 

Sure had those tvo compainionB the pahu of InJgfatbood wtm ; 

Well had they prov'd their valoui in many a field before. 

The Huns their high adventure perforce through fear gave o'er. 
1860. 

ThuB spake one of the wairiore, " why look ye so on me P 

From this foolish promise at once 111 set me firee. 

No gifts shall ever move me to lose my predons life. 

The qaeen misleads us -merely ; trust not king Etzel'a wife." 

1851. 
" Ay, &iend !" rejoin'd another, " I'm in the aelf-aame ease ; 

Yonder large-limb'd, minstrel never would I face, 

No, not if one would give me whole towers of good red gold. 

Mark bis sh&cp, quick glances ; he's wary as he's bold. 

18fi2. 
"Well know I too Sir Hagan e'en from his yonthftd days, 
And BO can well give credence when others speak his praise. 
In two and twenty battles I've seen him sway the strife ; 
That aim of his, believe me, haa widow'd many a wife. 

1858. 
He and the valiant Spaniard many an adventure sought 
"While here they dwelt with Etzel, and many a battle fought 
To the king's boot and glory ; full oft they prov'd their might J 
All tongues most so much honour yield Hagan as his right. 

1854. 
Yet then the hardy warrior in years was bat a child ; 
Now are they grave and grizzled who then were raw and vrild. 
Now is he proved in counsel, a champion stem and strong. 
And eke wears tiuBty Balmung, wh'oh erst he gain'd by wrong." 



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816 TVTBHXT-IflNTH ABTEMTDEE. 

1666. 

ThiiB H was at once decided, and Btruck vaa not a blow. 
Sore irt'd it aogiy Kriemliild ; her heart waa wrung with woe. 
Thence hack the knighte d^aited, each fearing to be aped 
'Bj that redoubted couple ; good cause had they for dread. 

1856. 
Then spoke the valiant gleeman, " we now have seen too clear, 
Aa we were told by Dietrich, that foes beaet us here. 
Best to court hence hurry, and with the kings unite ; 
Then none against our masters will dare provoke the fight" 

1867. 
How oft does the faint waverer let slip the lucky hour, 
While iriend by friend firm standing confronts the deadliest stour. 
Be they but bold and ready 1 no charm 'gainst sword and diyrt 
Likethatwhichamith ne'OTtemper'd,wiae head andfearlesa heart. 

1858. 
" Lead on then," answer'd TTftgnn^ " lH foUow dose behind." 
They went, where yet the warriora they were in time to find 
In the court adll waiting, girt by a glittering crowd. 
Thereat the dauntless Folker cried to his lords aloud, 

1869. 
" Noble Burgundian princes t how long here will you stay 
In all this crowd and pressure P better to court away, 
And leani the mind of Stzel from his own proper tongue." 
Then each choae his companion the well-prov'd knights among. 

1860. 
The prince of Bern, Sir Dietrich, took friendly by the hand 
Gunther the puissant ruler of Burgundy's iair land, 
Imfried went pair'd with Qemot the knight devoid of fear, 
And to court strode Budeger with youthful EHselher. 



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HOW EAOAH BXFtTBED TO BISE TO KBIEUHILD. 317 
1861. 

Howe'er the rest were coupled, as mov'd to court the train, 
Folker and Hagan parted ne'er again, 
Save in one mortal rtruggle, e'en to their dying houi". 
That strife high dames lamented each iu her widow'd bower. 

1862. 
So on to coort mov'd dowly the kings in royal atate, 
Their train a thousand noblee proud on snch lorda to vait ; 
"With them were sixty champions, the flower of all confest, 
"Whom in his land Sir Hagan had chosen for the beat. 

1863. 
Hawart and Iring, of knighthood each the pride. 
With the royal brethren mov'd softly side by aide j 
Sankwart enxi Wolfharfc, a valiant hardy knight, 
Displayd their courteous bearing in each beholder's sight. 

■ 1864. 
Soon as the lord of Bhineland had come within the door, 
The mighty monarch Etzel could keep his seat no more. 
At the first glimpse of Gunther up you might see him spring. 
And welcome him aa warmly as king did ever king. 

1866. 
" Sir Ghinther, welcome hither ! welcome Sir Qemot too, 
And Toor iair brother Giselher } my faithM service true 
I sent you, as befitted, to Worms beyond the Bhine. 
Your friends too all are welcome alike to me and mine. 

1866. 
And you, bold pair, thrice welcome, whom I together view, 
Banger^efying Folker, and peerless Hagan too. 
To me uid to my lady ; she'll see you nothing loth. 
She m»Qy a Mendly message to Bhine has sent for both." 



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S18 TWENTr-NINTH ADTBNTrEB. 

1867 
Then aaid the knight o{ Trony, " euch oft have reach'd my ear. 
And, had I not come hither to eerre my lieges dear, 
I fein, to do you honour, had ridd'n into this land." 
Hie guests then noble Etzd took friendly by the hand. 

1868. 
Straight to the seat he led them vhere he had just been sitting; 
Then to the guests were handed with grace and zeal befitting 
Mead, morat, wine, successive, in golden goblets bright. 
And each the noble strangers welcom'd aa beat he might. 

1869. 
Then thus reaum'd king Etzel ; " I will confess to all. 
That in this world could nothing so to my wish beMl 
Aa your arrival hither ; besides, this happy day 
Has to my queen gt^'n comfort, imA chaim'd her griefii away. 

1870. 
Before, I own, I wonder'd what wrong I could have wrought. 
That, while in crowds my table guests of high lineage sought^ 
Tou ne'er had ridden hither, as though &om some annoy,* 
But now that here I see you my wonder's lost in joy," 

1871. 
The lofty-minded Hudeger thereto this answer gave, 
" Well may you joy to see them ; they're good and true as brave. 
The kinsmen of my lady all honour's tore are taught ; 
They many a stately warrior have to your dwelling Imm^t." 

1872. 
'T was an eve of &ir midsummer when the lords of Bhineland came 
To the court of m^hty Etzel, and seldom chiefs of iame 
Met so warm a welcome aa was on these beatow'd. 
'T was now the hour of revel ; the king with them to table stroda. 



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EOV HAOAR BEFUSED TO BISE TO KBIEUniLD. 819 

1873. 

HobI vith gueetB together ne'er merrier took his seat. 
They gave them in abundance alike of drink and meat. 
Whate'er they wieh'd or fancied was brought in plenteous store. 
Great wonders of the warriors had oft been told before. 

1874. 
Etzel, the mighty monarch, had on th' Hungarian soil 
UpraiB'd a spadouB fabric with mickle coat and toil, 
Palaces and turrets within a fortreas wide, 
And chsmberB without number, and a splendid hall beside. 

1875. 
Long, high and wide had Etzel uprear'd this gorgeous &ame, 
For that to him such numbers of trooping champions came ; 
Besides his other courtiers, twelve kings that sceptres bore ; 
And crowds of worthy warriors had he at all times more 

1876. 
Than king had e'er assembled, as I for truth have found. 
He lived in mirth and honour with his kin and men around. 
The shouting and the pressing of knights from fer and wide 
Had the good prince ever about him ; he thus the world defied. 



THIETIETH ADVENTXTBB. 

HOW THBT KEPT WATCH. 

1877. 
The day it now was ended, the night was near at hand ; 
Deep care was now besetting the travel-tunted band, 
When theyshould take theirslumber; for rest they sorely yeam'd. 
That question put Sir Hagan, and answer soon return'd. 

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820 THIBTIETU ADTERTUEK. 

1878. 

To th' host thus spake king Gunther, " Qod gntnt^ you long 

may Jive 1 
Fain would we now repose db ; Buch leave, I pray you, give. 
If so you wifih, to-morrow we'll come at break of day." 
The host d'smisa'd them gladly, and pH went each bia way. 

1879. 
Sorethrong'dwerethea theatraugerB, such crowds to see themran; 
Thereat the valiant Folker thus to the Hims began. 
" How dare yau crowd and press us, ill-tniin'd, uunurtur'd crew ? 
Give place, or you'll discover 't will be the worse for you. 

1880. 
My fiddlestick's no feather ; on whom I let it fidl. 
If ho has fiiends that love him, 't will set them weeping alL 
Make way then for ns warriors, for so it seems me right. 
We're equals all in knighthood, not so in mood and might." 

1881. 
While thus is wrath the minstrel reprov'd the juatling crowd, 
TTn gftn, who had gone forward, look'd back and med aloud, 
" List to the valiant gleeman ; he gives you good advice ; 
To your quarters, knights of Eriemhild! let us not warn you twioe. 

1882. 
Your malice lacks performance ; e'en now, methinks, you doubt ; 
So, if you would ought with us, by daylight seek na out. 
And, for this night, to dumber leave us wsy&rers free. 
Never, I ween, did frarriors so long for it as we." 

1863. 
Then led were the bold strangers thence to a spacious halL 
Por rest as for convenience they found it fumish'd aH 
With beds, long, broad and sumptuous, arrang'd throughout the 

Dame Kriemhild still was plotting their bale and deadly doom- 



HOW THEY KEPT WATCH. d^l 

1884. 
Many a fine quilt from Arras you might see glittering there 
Of stuff most rich and precious, and many a tester fair 
Of silk from far Arabia the best that could be found. 
And thereupon were borders that bright shone wide around. 

1885. 
And coTcrlets in order were laid of ermine white, 
And others of dark sable, whereunder every knight 
Should pass the hours in slumber e'en to the dawning day. 
A king with his attendants ne'er in such splendour lay. 

1886. 
" Alas for these night quarters !" the youthiul (Heelber cried ! 
" Alas for onr good comrades who 'midst the Huns abide t 
However kind the message that from my sister sped, 
I fear, through her devices we aU shall soon lie dead," 

1887. 
" Now think not of such danger," the dauntless Hagan spake, 
"ItfyseOf this night about you the sentry's charge wiU take. 
I'll keep you safe, believe me, e'en to the dawn of day. 
For so long fear for nothing ; then turn his doom who may." 

1888. 
They bow'd to the good champion, and thank'd him, as was due, 
Then to the beds betook them, nor many moments flew 
Ere stretch'd upon his pallet was every mighty man. 
Hagan the wakeful sentry to don his arms began. 

1889. 
Thereat the good knight Folker, the valiant minstrel, spake, 
" If you'll not scorn it, Hagan, I'd fain your watch partake 
This night, tiU early morning bring ua both relief." 
Kight cordially Sir Hagan thus thank'd the friendly chief; 



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THIKTIETH IDTEJITTrEE. 



" Now God in bearen reward you, FoJter dear friend and tme. 
For ne'er another comrade I long, but only you, 
Wbat strait aoe'er beaet me ; I'm yours to my last breath. 
And well wiU I requite you, if hinder'd not by death." 

1891. 
With that hia glittering hauberk eai^ girt his waist about, 
Each graap'd in hand his buckler, and straight, with courage stout 
Trom the house forth issuing, took post outside the door, 
AndtherewithiaithaudmanhoodHtilLwatch'd their comradeso'er. 

1892. 
The swift-footed minstrel scarce liad left the h^ 
£re he his good buckler set down against the wall. 
And back hurried thither ; hia Tiol he took in hand, 
And with it as became him chann'd the way-wearied band. 

1893. 
Upon the stone he sat him beneath the palace door ; 
Minstrel more undaunted yiol ne'er struck before ; 
He struck the strings so sweetly ever as he play'd. 
That the meed of thanks to Folker each haughty stranger paid. 

1894. 
The house it all reechoed, he struck bo loud and shrill ; 
Theminstrel'sstrengthwas matchless, nor less the minstrel'sskill. 
Sweeter anon and softer when he to play began, 
On the beds he steep'd in slumber many a.care-harrow'd man. 

1895. 
When they in sleep were buried, and this by proof he knew, 
Once more in hand his buckler grasp'd the champion true. 
And, from the room forth stalking, before the tower he atepp'd. 
And BO the slumbering strangera from the menof Eriemhild kept. 



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BOWTHEt KEPT WATCH. 328 

1896. 

'T waa of tbe mght the middle, or something earlier yet, 
When the bright gleam of helmeta the glance of Folker met 
At dietanca through the darknesB ; 't waa Kriemhild'a steel-clad 

train, 
To do the guests a mischief all haateuing on amain. 

1897. ■ 

Eie thither had queen Kriemhild these wairiors darkling sent, 
She said, " for heaven's sake listen to this my fix'd intent. 
Harm none of yonder deepers but one whom I detest, 
The Mthless murderer Hagan ; save him and spare the rest." 

1898. 
Then spake the fearless gleeman, " friend Hagan, we must bear 
(As fitfl us) like true comrades the wakeM warder's care. 
Before the house discern I a band of men ia mail, 
Who, aa I think, will instant our waiy watch oasail." 

1899. 
" Hushihnsh," quick answer'd Hagan, "let them yet nearer steal; 
Sefore they can espy ub, they shall our weapons feel. 
Our hands thus many a headpiece shall sudden split in twain, 
And send them hence with sorrow to Kriemhild back again." , 

1900. 
One of the Hunnish champions in a trice espied 
That the door was guarded ; how at once he cried, 
" This plan of our's, my comrades, we must straight give o'er j 
I see the minstrel standiug on guard the hall before. 

1901. 
Look how bis helmet glitters ! 't is not more bright than stout. 
To dint of steel impassive, and temper'd well throughout ; 
His m^ like fire is glowing ; by him stands Hagan too ; 
The guests may sleep in safety with guards so stout and true." 
T 2 



324 THTBTTETH ADTEHTUBE. 

1902. 

Back at once they haated ; whea Folker this espied, 
To his valiant partner in auddrai wrath he cried, 
" Now let me hence, Mend Hagao, afber jonder crew. 
Fain would I to the skulkera a question put or two." 

1903. 
"No! for my sake," said Hagan," 'twould to our loss redound; 
If but thia post you quitted, they all would flock you round. 
And bring you to such peril if once they hemm'd you in, 
That I should fly to help you ; then ill would fare my kin; 

1904. 
For while we two were fighting, and both in dubious case, 
Three or four of yonder cowards might in a moment's space 
fiush into the chamber, and on the sleepers set. 
And do them aU such mischief as we could ne'er forget." 

1905. 
" Yet this at least allow me," the minstrel-knight replied, 
" Let *s show the men of Kriemhild, we hare their steps espied. 
That this to-morrow morning may be denied by none, 
That they a Bhomeful treason would willingly have done." 

1906. 
With that behind them Folker sent forth a lusty shout, 
" How now, ye men of Kriemhild ? why walk ye, arm'd, about ? 
For murder or for robbery is it that ye ride ? 
My friend and I would help you, come take us on your side." 

1907. 
Not a tongue gave answer ; wroth was the good knight ; 
" Fie, ye bloody dastards t" he cried with all his might. 
" So you would ua have murder' d, sleeping, every one 1 
On such good knights has rarely so foul a deed been done." 



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-aOW THEY WBHT TO CHUKCH. 325 

1908. 
Full Boon imto queeo Kriembild the Boiry tidingB came. 
That her men had compass'd nothing ; it set her heart on flame. 
Another course she ventur'd, festering with fell deapite. 
That brought death and deatniction on many a hapleaa knight. 



THIETY-FIHST ADVENTTJBE. 

HOW THET WENT TO CHTTBOH. 
1909. 

" So cold I feel my hauberk," the minBtrel said at last, 
" The night, I ween, friend Hagan, must needs be waning fast. 
The nipping air assures me ihat close at hand is day." 
Then wak'd they of their comrades who yet in slumber lay. 

1910. 
Then broke the gleam of morning on those within the hall. 
Straight began Sir Hagan to rouse the warriors all, 
If they would to the minster the early mass to hear. 
Memiwhile in Christian feahion the belts were ringing clear. 

1911. 
The chants were so diacord^t, thereby you well might see, 
That Chriatian men and heathen together ill agree. 
The v^iant men of Gunther would thence to church away. , 
From their beda they started j Ettle linger'd they. 

1912. 
With that at once they laced them all in such gorgeous vesta, 
That into no ting's country had ever knightly gueata 
Brought weed more &ir and costly ; ill did it Hagan please ; 
" Here," said he, " are fitting for other clothes than these. 



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93B . TU1KTY-7IBST 

.1018. 
My friends, what toils beeet ua, you sll well imderatand ; 
So for the rose, ye warriors, take the good sword in hand. 
And for the cap of jewels the morion beaming bright. 
Bemember what fell Eriemhild devis'd but yesternight. 

1914. 
To-day must we do battle, bo I bid yon wdl beware ; 
For the soft silken tunic the dashing hauberk wear, 
And for the sumptuous mantle the buckler stout and wide. 
That, when they rage against ye, the brunt you well may bide. 

1916. 
Qive ear, my dearest masters, my kin and comrades too, 
Oo to the church, and welcome, it fits you so to do. 
And wail to God in heaven your need, while you have breath, 
And know ye this for certain, that at our heels Is death. 

1916. 
Forget not then, moreover, if ought ye ill have done, 
And fervently for pardon pray, every mother'a son; 
For this I warn you, warriors, nor hold these words for vain, 
Ne'er, but God show you men^, mass will ye hear again." 

1917. 
Then went they to the minster, the princes and their band. 
Just at the holy churehyard bold Hagan bad them stand, 
And keep all well together, and thus beapake the crew. 
" Who knows, to ns Burgundians what yonder Huna may do ? 

1918. 
Take heed, my friends, your bucklers bringdown before your feet. 
And, if a soul our party in hostile guise should greet, 
Bequite him with a death-stroke ; bo seems to Hagan right. 
Bo doing, will each among us be found as fits a knight." 



aoW THET WBKT TO CUUBOH. 327 



1819. 
Folker then and Hagan both together vent 
And stood before the minster ; 't was done with this intent, 
That they might see if Eriemhild would stir the slumbering feud 
Fassing contemptiiouB by themj right stem were both of mood^ 

1920. 
And now came on king Etzel and ehe his lady fair. 
Both, as their state befitted, in garments rich and rare, 
With crowds of knights, all ready to do their high commands ; 
Uprose the dust to heaven from Kriembild'a trampling bands. 

1921. 
"When the king, advancing, so arm'd to point espied 
The kings and their bold vassals, how quick to them he cried, 
" What 'b this P my frienda in armour marching thus along ? 
Jn Booth, 't would sore afOict me if they have su&er'd wrong. 

1922. 
Amends I'll make, and gladly, as shall to them seem right ; 
If any have put on them affix>nt or foul despite, 
I'll show them, that Buch outrage I also inly rue, 
And all that they demand me, I ready am to do." 

1923. 
Then Hagim thus made answer; " nought has to us been done 
But my lords have a custom, till three whole days be run. 
When royal feasts they visit, their wariike arms to wear ; 
All wrong that may be done us, to Etzel we'll dedare," 

1924. 
Bight well heard lady Kriemhild what Trony's knight replied. 
How bitterly the warrior under her hds she eyed ! 
Yet, though the truth well knowing as a Burgundian dame. 
She would not to her husband her county's use proclaim. 



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326 THIBTY-FISST ADTEKTUBE. 

1925. 

How deep soe'er and deadly the hate she bore her kin, 

Still, had the truth by any discloe'd to Etzel been, 

He had at once prevented what ^«rwards befell 

Through proud contemptuoits course they Bcom'dtheir wrongs 



7%en on vent haughty Eriemhild girt with a mighty crowd, 
Yet Bwerre would not before her that pair of champions proud 
So much aa e'en two hwids'-breadth; that gall'd th' Hungarians 

Bore. 
Perforce they press' dandjuatled with the warriore through the door . 

1927. 
The chamberlaiiiB of Etzel therewith were ill content ; 
They had straight the haughty strangers defied as in they went, 
But that they fear'd to do so their monarch's eyes before ; 
Pressing enough and justling there was, but nothing more. 

1928. 
When serv'd was God as fitted, and thence would every one, 
Straight into the saddle leapt many a warlike Hun ; 
The while around fair Kriemhild many a bright maid was seen. 
And full seven thonsmd champions begirt the stately queen. 

1929. 
Queen Kriemhild and her ladies now at the windows sat 
"With the wide-ruling Etzel ; well pleos'd was he with that. 
Th ey would survey the tourney whereknightstheirprowesa show'd. 
Ah ! what stranger warriors in the court beforo them rode ! 

1930. 
Thither too the marshd wa« with the yeomen eome ; 
The redoubted Dankwart had muster' d, aU and some. 
The followers of his roaster, the flower of Ehenish ground. 
Tor the bold Kibelungers well-saddled steeds were found. 



HOW TllET WENT TO CHUKCH. 329 

1931. 

Thither the kings came riding and with them many a man, 
When the good minstrel Folker to coimael this began, 
Tliat they should jouat together each in his country's mode. 
Thereafter in the tourney the chiefs foil knightly rode. 

1932. 
What BO the warrior counael'd gave all who heard content. 
A mighty prbss and clatter uprose incontinent. 
Into the court's broad circuit prick'd many a mighty man. 
King Etzel and queen Kriemhild now to look on began. 

1933. 
There came into the tourney sis hundred warriors fleet, 
detainers of Sir Dietrich, the stranger knights to meet. 
With the bold Burgundians they long'd a course to iruu. 
Had Dietrich but permitted fain would they so have done. 

1934. 
Ab! what good knights among them rein'd the proud battle-steed! 
To their good lord Sir Dietrich the news was brought with speed. 
With Ghmther's knights forbad he his knights a knee to cross. 
Nought from such game forboding but grief and deadly loss. 

1935. 
"When now from out the tilt-yard the men of Bern were gone, 
Sir Budeger's retMuera before the hall came on. 
Five hundred from Bechlaren with shields and armour gay. 
Well had it pleaa'd the margrave had they been far away. 

1936. 
Then rode he in hia wisdom up to the mnster'd band, 
And earnestly bespake them, and gave to understuid. 
That Gunther's men were sullen wid all on mischief bent ; 
If they would quit the tourney, 't would give him much content. 



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880 TUIKTT-FIBST ADTENTUBI. 

1987. 

When thence were now departed the mairgnTe's warriorB bold, 
Then came the men of Thnringen, aa haa to ua been told. 
And firom the realm of Denmark a thousand proud and high. 
Then from the eraahing Iwicea were seen the ahirers fly. 

1938. 
ImMed then and Hawart into the tourney rode. 
Proudly the bold BurgundianB their sturdy brunt abode. 
The noble hnighta of Thuiingen they met in many a joust, 
Andtuaoyaghtteringbuckler pierc'd through with manya thrust. 

1939. 
Sir Blffidel with three thousand rode forward &ank and &ee ; 
By Etzel and by Eriemhild full w^ observ'd was he ; 
Before them both, his tQting peiform'd each gallant knight ; 
Through hate to the Buigundiaoa it gave the queen delight. 

19dO. 
She ponder'd thus in secret (as nigh to pass it came), 
" Should they by chance hurt any, at once this gentle game 
Would turn to bloody earnest ; then I on these my foea 
Should be reveng'd for erer, and quit of all my woes." 

1941. 
Schrutan and stout Gibek into the tourney rode, 
And Bftm i in g and swift Horabog after the Hunniah mode. 
Against the bold Bui^^undians they knightly bore them all ; 
High flew the whizzing spUntera o'er the king's mighty haU. 

1942. 
And yet all their performance was but an empty sound. 
HaU might you hear and palace with clashing shields resound. 
Where rode the men of Ohmther; bythem proud deeds were done. 
Hia train of that Siir tourney the highest honours won. 



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HOW THEY WBUT TO CUOBCB. 331 

1913. 

So great was thea the pastiine vken front to front they met, 
That through the reeking foot-clotha forth buret the frothy sweat 
From the high-mettled couiHerewhicb the good knighta beatrode, 
A& 'gainBt the lorda of Hungary in haughty wise they rode. 

19M. 
Then spake the noble minstrel Folker with scornful glance, 
" These knights, metbinks, will never confront ua lance to lance. 
I hear it loudly rumour'd they bear us mortal spite ; 
Surely can the^ never find better time to fight. 

1915. 
Bo let uB to our quarters," the fearless warrior cried, 
" Send hence our weary Jiorses ; back we can hither ride, 
If there be time, towards eTening ; 't were fitter then than now ; 
What if to ns Burgundians the queen should praise allow P' 

1946. 
Just then there rode so proudly into the lists a Hun, 
That BO no knight among them the general gaze had won. 
Perchance e'en then in secret for some iair maid be sigh'd. 
He wore as rich t^parel as any noble bride. 

1947. 
At once outspake Sir Folker, " I needs must spoil his cheer ; 
Yonder ladies' Hurling must feel a push of spear. 
No one shall prevent it~let him guard his hfe. 
I reck not, though it kindle the wrath of Etsel's wife." 

1948. 
" No ! as yon love me, Folker," straight the king 'gan say, 
" The people all will blame us if we commence the fi»y. 
Let' the Huns begin it ; 't were better flo, I ween." 
StUl was king Etzel sitting beside his moody qneen. 



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882 TUIBTT-riBBT 

1949. 
"I'll join you iu the tourney," fierce Hagau sternly cried; 
" Let's show both knights and ladies how wo Burgundians ride. 
'T were well, by proof they knew it ; they'd rate us higher then. 
Now they deny all credit to good kii^ Ghtnther's men." 

1950. 
Back into the toumey swift Folker hotly Hpurr'd ; 
Thereby was many a lady to grievous sorrow stirr'd. 
B^ght through that proud Hun's body he drove the griding spear. 
That stroke both dames and damsels cost many a bitter tear. 

1951. 
That saw at once Sir Hagan, nor dallying there abode ; 
"With siity of his champions, all thundering as they rode, 
'Gainst th' Huns he hotly hurtled fast by the gleeman'a side. 
King Etzel and queen Kriemhild the toumey closely eyed. 

1952. 
Nor would the three kings basely iu dastard doth repose. 
And leave the minstrel eidleas among untmmber'd foes. 
With them came to the rescue a thousand warriors good ; 
Haughty and overweening they did whate'er they would. 

1953. 
Soon as by Sir Folker the wealthy Him was slain, 
You might hear his kinsmen cry out and loudly plain. 
All in a breath were asking, " who has this outrage done P" 
" Folkear the bold minatrel," gave answer many a one. 

1954. 
Straight for swords and bucklers were calling all the band 
AJdn to the young margrave of the Himnish land ; 
The fearless minstrel Folker they thought at once to slay. 
The host down from a window took in haste his way. 



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HOW THET WENT TO CHTTRCK. 333 

1955. 

Prom the Huna on all sides a crj arose amtun. 
Sefore the hall alighted the kings and all their train. 
Every bold Burgundian sent his steed away ; 
Up in haste came Etzel and parted straight the fray. 

195S. 
He fotmd one of the kinsmen with his sword drawn in his hand ; 
JFrom him in an instuit he anatch'd the naked brand. 
And beat the brawlers backward, chafing and raging sore. 
" In Booth with these good warriors my faTour all were o'er," 

1957. 
Said Etzel, " if among us this minstrel here ye slew ; 
'T was by mere misadventure he ran your kinsman through. 
I had my eye upon him juat as he struck the blow. 
It was his steed that stumbled ; 't was heaven would have it so. 

1958. 
Then leave my Mends in quiet, and from the tilt-ywvi speed." 
Himself then gave them escort ; meanwhile each battle-steed 
"Was led thence tp their quiffters, for those Burgundian guests 
Had many a zealous varlet to tend their high behests. 

1959. 
Then with his Mends king Etzel into his palace went ; 
He bad all cease from anger, and calm'd their fierce intent. 
Beady were set the tables ; for all was water brought. 
The lives of the Burgundians mimy a stout foeman 'sought. 

1960. 
However irk'd it Etzel, still many an armed knight 
Fiess'd close behiad the princes, e'en iu the king's despite, 
Lowering with hateful glances as they to table went, 
Each to revenge his kinsman on those proud strangers bent. 



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834 THIRTT-FIKST ABTIHTORB, 

I96I. 

" 'D is an iD use," eaid Etzel, " and one I scarce con bear, 
At the feastfiil table tlie weeds of war to weae. 
But whoeoe'er his vengeance on these my guests shall wreak, 
His head shall paj the forfeit ; tbia to you Huns I speak." 

1962. 
'T was long before was seated ereiy lordly guest. 
Fell care and deep disquiet wrung Eriemhild's labouring breast. 
" Prince of Bern," she mnmiur'd, " thy counsel, aid and grace 
I seek in sore affliction ; pity my moumfiil case." 

1963. 
Then aaswer'd her Sir Hildebrand, a warrior frank and &ee, 
** Who'd slay the Nibelnngers shall have no help from me, 
Ko, not for countless treasure ; th' attempt he well may rue ; 
The goodknightsne'erwere conquer' d, with whomhe'Ilhaveto do." 

1964. 
Said she, " yet surely Hagan has done me cruel wrong ; 
He murder'd my beloved, the stTongest of the strong. 
Who'd lure him from the others, should have my gold for meed. 
"I would inly discout^t me should one but Hagui bleed." 

1965. 
Then answer'd master Hildebrand, " how can that ever be ? 
Slay him among his fellows ? why surely you most see, 
That, if we shike at Hagan, to battle straight will all. 
And rich and poor together must in one shiiigbter fall." 

1966. 
Ilien in his courteous fashion thereto Sir Dietrich spake, 
" Gh^t queen, this t^ give over, and better counsel take. 
Me never wrtmg'd your kinsmen, nor is there cause, that I 
Should wairiors, whom I value, to mortal strife defy. 



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HOW THEY WENT TO CHTTHCH. 335 

1967. 

It does you little honour, the simple truth to eaj, 
Agunat jour trusting kinsmen such deadly plots to lay. 
'T waa under a safe-conduct they enter'd Etzel's land. 
Berenge for Siegfried never expect &om Dietrich's hand." 

1968. 
When she no spark of treason found in the Bemer brave, 
Of a wide msrch to Blcedel the promise Btraight she gave. 
It once belong'd to Nudung ; a gift 't was for a queen ; 
Yet a stroke of Dankwart's made Mm foi^t it quite and dean. 

1969. 
" To give me help, Sir Blcedel," smd she, "the task be thine ; 
Harboui'd within this palace are moital foes of mine, 
The same, who my dear husband Sir SiegMed did to die ; 
Who helps me to revenge it, to bim for ever bound am I." 

1970. 
Tbns answer'd her Sir Blcedel, "lady, to truth give ear ; 
I iiae not wreak your vengeance, for Etzel's wrath I fear. 
He's gkd to see yonr kinsmen and all their vaasal throng, 
Aod never would foi^ve me if I should do them maag." 

1971. 
" Kay, say not bo, Sir Blixdel, I'll stand thy Mend at need ; 
Silver and gold in plenty Til give thee for thy meed. 
Besides a beauteous damsel, whom Nudung bad to wiie. 
Lf^p'd iu her soft caresses thou'lt lead a loving lifb. 

1972. 
The lands and eke the castles to thee 111 freely give ; 
So may'st thou, noble warrior, with joy for ever live, 
If then but win the lordships where Nudung once held sway. 
I'll truly keep the promise I've given you here to-day." 



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3S6 THIBTT-rrEST ABTETTTUKK, 

1973. 
Xo sooner heard Sir Bltsdel of Buch a guerdon tell, 
Besides that for her beauty the lady pleaa'd him well, 
Ulan he resolv'd by battle to win the lovely bride. 
He misa'd, alas ! the damsel, and lost his life beside. 

1974. 
He thus beapake queen Kriemhild, " to th' hall back haste away; 
Ere one can take precaution, I'll stir a bloody &ay. 
Hagan, who BoVd in murder, shall reap a barrest meet. 
I'll bring the man of Gunther in fetters to your feet. 

1975. 
Now arm ye straight," saidBloedel, "my merry men one aud all! 
Hence to the strangers' quartere upon our ibes to fiilL 
So wills our royal lady, king Etzel's noble wife. 
Ye heroes ! at her bidding each boldly risk bis life." 

1976. 
"When Eriemhild thus found Bltedel to work her will intent, 
And eager to do battle, to table straight she went 
With the redoubted Etzel and eke with all his train. 
Against the guests &om Bhineland fell counsel bad she ta'en. 

1977. 
How they went all to table, I now at full must say. 
First went the kings attended, crown'd and in rich array ; 
Many a proudprince behind them, many a good knight was seen, 
And all display'd their courtship before the noble queen. 

1978. 
The good host at the tables found place for every guest ; 
He seated close beside him the highest and the best. 
The Christian knights and heathen there feasted nothing loth. 
Their food indeed was different, but there was store for both. 



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HOW THET WENT TO CHUBCH. 337 

1979. 

The yeomen in their quarters the time in feasting spent. 
Sewere were hy good king Etzel to do their bidding sent, 
Who gave them all they ask'd for, and Berv'd both high and low. 
Their merriment and revel were soon outweigh'd by woe. 

1980. 
Still her old grudge lay rankling in Eriembild's poieon'd heart ; 
"When else 't were hard a quarrel to stir on either part, 
To table 'mid the feasters she sent for Etzel'e boh. 
When for revenge by woman was deed so fearful done ? 

1981. 
With that four men of Etzel'e went out at her command ; 
They brought the young king Ortlieb and led him by the hand 
Up to the princes' table, where sat fierce Hagan by, 
Doom'd aU too soon, poor infant ! by his feU hate to die. 

1982. 
Soon as the proud king Etzel bis little son espied, 
QraciDuBly his wife's kinsmen bespake he at his side, 
"' See, friends, my boy and Eriemhild's, our only son and heir. 
To you may henceforth profit come from this child bo fair. 

1983. 
If he grow up like his kinsmen, he'U prove a man of might, 
Of noble mind and lineage, a strong and feariess knight. 
Should I live sometime longer, I'll give him twelve broad lands. 
So look for useftd service at this fair infant's hands. 

1984. 
Now therefore I beseech you, ye dearest Mends of mine, 
When hence you make your journey back to your native Bhine, 
To take with you this infant, your loving sister's son, 
And treat him well and kindly as should by kin be done i 



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THIBTT-PIE8T ADTBlTTral. 



And bring him up in honour, tUl to a man be grow, 
And, should your land be harried by force of any foe, 
He'll help you to avenge it, when he his arms can wield." 
AH this was beard by Kriemhild ; her lips stem mlence seai'd. 

1986. 
" He well may help tbeee warriors," Sir Hagaa straight began, 
" If ever by good fortune be come to be a man ; 
Yet seems the young king's aspect no long life to foreshow. 
Methinka I shall have seldom to Ortlieb's court to go." 

1987. 
Sore irk'd the speech king Etzel ; the knight he sternly eyed ; 
Though not a word in answer tbe haughty prince replied, 
Down it weigh'd bis spirits, and oTercast bis heart. 
Unfit was Hagan's nature in joy to bear a pwt. 

1988. 
Woe was tbe low'ring monarch, and all bis cbie& as weQ, 
When such dark words from Hagan of that fair infant fell. 
That they should bear it longer, deep murmur'd all the crew. 
Little thought the warriors what he was yet to do. 

1989. 
Many, who there had heard him, and bore him mortal hate, 
Had gladly set upon him ; the king had done it strtught 
But for his word of honour; then Ul had Hagan sped; 
SoonworsedidhetoOrtlieb; inEtzel's eight bestruck him dead. 



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THIRTT-SECOND ADVENTUEB. 

BOtr SLdDEI WAS SLUIT. 

1990. 
All the knightB of Bkedel were ready in raray ; 
With a thousand hauberks to the hall they took their ve^j, 
"Where Dankwul; at the table sat with the yeomen tall. 
Straight among the varriors uproae a deadly brawL 

1991. 
At once up to the table Sir Blcedel fiercely strode, 
'When I>aiikwart this fair greeting on the stem knight bestow'd. 
" Welcome, my lord, Sir Blcedel, you here are gladly seen. 
We look'd not for yonr presence; whatmaythismeetingmeanF" 

1992. 
" Greet me not," said Blcedel, " 'tis a waste <rf breath ; 
Know, my coming hither to thee must needs be death. 
Thank thy brother Hagan who noble SiegMed slew. 
Then now sh^t pay the Huns for it, thea and many another too." 

1993. 
" Ifay, say not so, lord Blcedel," Sir Sankwart uiswer made, 
So sboald we me this vimt in &ith and honour paid. 
I was a little infant when Siegfried lost his life ; 
How could I have offended kbg Etzel's moody wifb ?" 

1991. 
" I know not, and I care not, if this be Mse or true. 
'Twaa done by your base kinsmen, Qimther and Higan toa 
So ward ye well, ye strangers 1 'tis all in vain to fly ; 
Tour lireB are pledg'd to Eriemhild, and take them now will I." 



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840 THIKTT-SECOKD ASTEKTTmE. 

1995. 

" So you are fix'd," said Dankwart, " for murder all prepar'd ! 
"Wouldlhadne'erbeaoughtyou! that had been better apar'd." 
Upstarted from the table the warrior swift and strong ; 
Ont he drew a broadsword heavy taii sh^ and long. 

1996. 
Straight at luiMees Blcedel he struck a blow so fleet, 
That his head in an inatont lay before his feet. 
" Take that, thou thriving wooer !" victorious Dankwart cried, 
" For a maniage-moming'B present to Nudung's mincing bride. 

1997. 
Another mate to-morrow may wed the widow'd dame; 
I'll pay him with like measure, shonld he the dowry claim." 
(A faithful Hun that morning Had told him underhand, 
What deadly fraud against them the vengeful c[ueen had jdann'd.} 

1998. 
When Blcedel's men their master saw dead upon the floor. 
Such loss from the fierce stnmgers they could endure no more. 
On squires at once and yeomen with high raia'd swords they flew 
In deadly wrath ; 6U1 many that honr had cause to rue. 

1999. 
To his train shouted Dankwart loud o'er the crash and din, 
" Te see, bold squires and yeomen, what danger hems us in. 
Fight for your lives, ye friendless I in sooth we're foully shent. 
For all the loving greetings that fraudfiil Kriemhild sent." 

2000. 
They, who bad not their broadswords, benches asunder tore, 
Or many a chair and footstool enatch'd up from the floor. 
The bold Bnrgundianfi stay'd not, but all for weapons us'd ; 
Heads with heavy settles were pnmmel'd sore and bruis'd. 



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HOW BUEDKL WAS BIjA.IS. 341 

2001. 
How fiercely the lorn atrangere themaelTee defended there ! 
Out they drove their foemen aU weapon'd as they were ; 
Tet, within, five hundred were lifeless left or more. 
Sankwart'a men pursued them dripping red with gote. 

2002. 
Straight the Bony tidings to every Hunniah chief 
Were borne by hasty rumour (it gave them mortal grief) 
That alaugbter'd with his warriors was Blsdel good at need. 
That Dankwart and the yeomen had done the bloody deed. 

2003. 
Before king !Etzel knew it, inflam'd with deadly hate 
Two thousand Huna or better donn'd their armour stnught. 
They march'd against the yeomen to deal them mortal dole, 
And living of the party let not escape a aoul. 

2001. 
Before the house they muster'd, an army deep and dense ; 
Though succouriess, the strangers stood well on their defence ; 
Tet what avwl'd their valour ? dead perforce they lay. 
Thence arose soon after a yet more horrid fray. 

2005. 
Ifow you must hear a wonder aa never yet was told. 
"Within the hall lay lifeless nine thousand yeomen hold. 
Thereto of Dankwart'a followers twelve hardy knights and good. 
And now among his foemen alone the warrior stood. 

2006. 
Hush'd waa the din of batUe, laid was the wild uproar ; 
He sternly o'er his shoulder survey'd the horrid floor. 
And spake, " alas, brave comrades ! what F not a dying groan P 
Then stand must Dankwart aidless among his foes alone." 



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842 TSIBTI-SECONS IDTENTDBE. 

2007. 

Upon his Bingle person fell thimd'riDg sword-strokea life, 
Tet cause gave he for weeping to many a hero's wife. 
He nus'd his bucUer higher and lower hrought the thong. 
Blood Btream'dbeQeaith hiabufetsthroughmanyahauberhstTong. 

2008. 
"'Woe'smel I'm faint and stifled," the eon <^ Aldiian cried ; 
" Now, ye knights of Hungary ! stand a little wide ; 
Let the air re&esh me — I'm wearied with the fight." 
Then maniiilly among them etepp'd forth the stately knigbt. 

2009. 
As faint and exhausted horn the house he sprang, 
What redoubled sword-Btrokes on his morion rang ! 
Those, who had not yet witness'd what venders wrought his hand, 
Forward leapt upon him, the knight &om O-unther's land. 

2010. 
" Now would to Qod," said Dankwart, " a messenger would go 
To let my brother Hf^;an my fearful peril know, 
Among this band of traitors how bok beset am 1 1 
He'd come and hence would help me, or by my side would die." 

2011. 
" Nay, do thyself thy message," the fierce Hungarians sud, 
" "When we unto tby brother bring thee cold and dead ; 
Then shall the man of Gunther the smart of sorrow know. 
Thou here hast wrought king Etzel such grievous loss and woe." 

2012. 
Said he, " your threats give over, stand fimm me further yet. 
Or I will make your hauberks with blood all dripping wet. 
Myself the heavy tidings will bring to yonder court. 
And to my lords with wiuling our deadly wrongs reiport." 



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HOW BIi<£DKl WAB SLUN. 343 

2013. 

So mucli tho knights of £tzel his matcbleBS streogtb diamay'd, 
That not a man amongBt them duret meet him blade to blade, 
But darts into bis buckler they shot so thick around, 
That, by the weight o'ennaater'd, he dropp'd it on the ground. 

2014. 
Seeing him thia unshielded, they fiercer forward drove ; 
Hot then with deadly gashes the shields and helms he dore ! 
Down perforce before him etoop'd many a lofty hnight. 
What praise was then Sir Dankwart's, alone to sway the figbt ! 

2015. 
They rush'd at him from both sides; none then would keep aloof; 
But, match'd with him, found many most speed was leaat behoof. 
Bight through bis foea the champion made his red passage good. 
As tbrougb the dogs the wUd-boar amidst tbe echoing wood. 

2016. 
Ever the gronnd beneath hi'm with smoking gore was wet. 
When better fought a champion with countless foes beset ? 
So to court before them, along his bloody road, 
TJnconquer'd still and atately fierce Hagan's brother strode. 

2017. 
Cupbearers and sewers beard sword-strokes clashing nigh. 
Dainty drinks and dishes they threw in hurry by. 
The which they in were bringing upon tbe board to set. 
A crowd of sturdy foemeu e'en on the sturs he met. 

2018. 
"Hownow,ye Bowers?" saidDankwart with bloody toil oppress'd, 
" 'T is your's to feed the hungry, and cheer the thirsty guest, 
And store of savoury vianda to feasting knights to bear ; 
Give place, for I would something to my good lords declare." 



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3^ THIBIX-THtBD ASTENIUBB. 

2019. 

All, who dar'd confront him ae up the stun he fiew. 
Met with such fearful abahes, that soon at distance due 
From that weighty broadsword stood trembling eveiy one. 
Such mrpassing wonders by Dankwart's Btrength were don« 



THIETT-THIED ADVENTITEE. 

HOW THE BTTBOnimiAirS FOUGHT WITH TBX HTnrS. 



SooB ae the fearless warrior beneath the lintel hied, 
He bad the men of Etzel keep distance yet more wide. 
The blood from that fierce combat down all his armour pour'd. 
And in his hand uplifted he held hia naked sword. 

2021. 
Just at the very moment that in burst Dankwart so. 
It chanc'd the young prince Ortlieb was carried to and fro 

From table unto table ; the news of that fell strife. 

So sudden brought among them, cost the feir child hia life. 
2022. 

To a good knight then Dankwart shouted lond and atrtmg, 

" Be stirring, brother TTngim, you're sitting all too long. 

To yon and God'in heaven our deadly strait I pl^ ; 

Yeomen and knigbta together lie in their quarters slain." 
2023. 

" Tell me who has done it p" Hagau fiercely cried. 

" Sir Blcedel and his meiuy," Dankwart straight replied, 

" And paid too has he dearly ; he's dead among the dead ; 

This hand from off his shoulders smote at a stroke his head.". 



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HOW THE BUBGUBQUHS FOrOHT WITH THE KVSB. Z45 

2024. 
" Small is the loafi," aaid Hagan, " wbenever one can tell 
That a vauqiiiBli'd hero by hands heroic fell. 
Thus it BtiU befitteth a knight to yield his breath ; 
So much tie leea fiur ladies should Borrow for his death. 

2025. 
Now tell me, brother Daukwart, why are you so red ? 
Tour waimd8,methiiiks, oppress you; they must have Borely bled. 
If he's yet m this country who has harm'd yon thus in strife, 
But the foul fiend aid him, it sh^ cost his life." 

2026. 
" Tou Bee me whole and hearty ; my weed with blood is wet, 
But 't is &om wounds of others whom sword to sword I met. 
Of whom I slew so many, though fiuious all and fell, 
That, if I had to swear it, th' amount I ne'er could tell." 

2027. 
Said th' other, " brother Dankwart, keep guard upon the door ; 
Let not one Hungarian step the threshold o'er. 
Straight, as need impels us, converse with them will I. 
Our Mends by their devices were guUtless done to die." 

2028. 
" Since I'm to be door-keeper," replied the champion true, 
" (And well to such great monarchs such service I can do), 
As fits me, 'gainst all comers the staircase I'll muntain." 
Nought could be more distasteful to Eriemhild's knightly train. 

2029. 
" In sooth," reeum'd Sir Hagan, " I can't but wonder here. 
What now these Huns are whisp'ring each in his fellow's ear. 
I ween, they well could spare him, who keeps the door so bold, 
Him, who to us Burgundians his courtly tale has tdd. 



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846 TBIETY-THIBD ASTERirBX. 

2030. 
Long have I beard and often of moodj Kiiemliild tell. 
That atill her heart's deep sorrow she harbours fierce and fell ; 
Now then let's drink to fiiendahip ! king's wine shall quench 

our thirst, 
And the young prince of Hungary himself shall pledge us first." 

2081. 
With that the good knigbtHagan smote Ortlieb the young child; 
The gushing blood, down flowing, both sword and hand defil'd j 
Into the lap of Kriemhild bounded the ghastly head. 
At once among the warriors a fear^ butchery spread. 

2032. 
Then with both hands uplifted he dealt a stroke at large 
'Glainat the graTe-Tissg'd tutor, who had the child in chai^; 
His aever'd head, down falling, before the table lay. 
For all his learned lessons i' faith 't was sorry pay. 

2038. 
Just then at Etzel's table a minstrel met his view ; 
Upon I'l T i in an instant in wrath Sir Hagan flew. 
His right hand on his viol ofi' kipp'd he suddenly ; 
** Take that for the kind message thou brought'st to Bui^undy." 

2034. 
" Alas ! my hands !" cried Werbel frantic with pain uid woe, 
" What have I done, Sir Hagan, that you should serve me so F 
I came in fiuth and honour into your master's land. 
How cmi I now make music since I have lost my hand ?" 

2036. 
Little re<^'d Sir Hagan if ne'er he fiddled more ; 
. Then round his death-strokes dealing he stretch'd upon the floor 
Many a, good knight of Etzel's, and wide the slaughter ^read, 
Turning to bale the banquet, and hei^'d the hall with dead. 



HOW THE BUBSUKDUaB FOUaHT WITH THE HUNS. 34:7 

2036. 
Up the ready Folker leapt from table quick ; 
In his hand loud datter'd his deadly fiddlestick. 
Harah crashing not«BdiBcordaQt king Ghmther's nuustrel play'd. 
Ah! what a host of foemen among the Huns he made ! 

2037. 
TTp too leapt from table the royal brethren three ; 
They thought to part the bid^ ere mischief more should be. 
But lost was aU their labour, vain was all help of nuui ; 
"When Folker and stem Hagan once so to rage began. 

2088. 
When saw the lord of Bhineland no power could stint the strife, 
He too dealt dole about him with wounds that let out life, 
Through the shining hauberks cutting deadly way. 
A pioweat knight was Gunther, as dear he show'd that day. 

2030. 
At once into the battle the sturdy Gemot flew ; 
Thick as they flock'd around him the duatering Huna he slew 
With his sword, the gi& of Rudeger, the which he wielded so. 
That many a knight of Dtzel's he laid for ever low. 

2010. 
The third too of the brethren rush'd into the fray ; 
Throughth' helms of Etzel's warriors bis sword made bloody way; 
Death follow'd every buffet ; right wondrous deeds were done 
That hour by youthful GHselher, dame TJta'a youngest son. 

2041. 
Well fought that day the brethren, well too their men of might, 
But ever valiant Folker stood foremost in the fight, 
Ag^nst his foes so knightly himself the warrior bore. 
Many brought he among them to wallow in their gore. 



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SIS THI&TT-TETKS ASTEKTOBB, 

2042. 

On their defence, too, etoutl^ stood Etzel'a champions all. 
Then might you see the BtrangerB through the kingly hall 
With their glittering broadswords slashii^ and hewing go. 
Loudthrill'd throughout the palace wild screamB of wfulandwoe. 

2013. 
Then those without in burried to aid their friends within, 
But found upon the staircase more was to lose than win ; 
Out fain would rush the others, and through the doorway &re. 
To none gave Dankwart passage, nor up nor down the stair. 

2044. 
To force the guarded portal throng'd the Huns amain. 
With the clattering sword-strokes the monons rang again. 
Then stood the valiant Dankwart in deadly peril there ; 
Of that his loving brother took heed with timely cam. 

2015. 
Straight to dauntless Folker Hagan shouted loud, 
" See you there my brother beset by yonder crowd, 
Batter'd by blades unnumber'd, by countless bucklers cross'd? 
Up, and save him, comrade I or the good knight is lost." 

2046, 
" Fear not," replied the minstrel, " I'U do your bidding soon." 
Straight strode he through the palace playing his harshest tune. 
Oft claeh'd the keen-edg'd broadsword that in his hand he bore. 
The noble chiefs of Bhiueland thank'd him o'er and o'er. 

2047. 
Then to the fearless Duikwart the minstrel-knight 'gan say, 
" Tou must have surely suffer'd sore press and toil to-day. 
Sent hither by your brother to aid you I have been. 
If you'll without be warder, I'll keep the door within." 



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HOW THE BUSauySIAlfS FOUQHT WITH ^HE HCN8. 349 
2018. 

Firm the nimble DaiikwaFt stood outside the door ; 
All who the stairs were mounting down drove he eyermore ; 
In the grasp of the wairtoTs their swords clash'd fearfully. 
The like within did stoutly Folker of Burgundy. 

2049. 
Loud the valiant minatrel shouted o'er the throng, 
" The hall is shut, friend Hagan ! the locks are firm and strong. 
The hands of two stout warriors king Etzel's door secure ; 
A thousand bolts, believe me, would not be half so sure." 

2050. 
When Hagan saw the portal secur'd against attack, 
By the thoug his buckler the fiery chief threw back, 
Andwhirl'dhis sword for vengeance with huge two-handed sway ; 
No hope bad then his foemen with life to come away. 

2051. 
When good Sir Dietrich noted how with each swashing stroke 
The furious lord of Trony a Hunnisb morion broke. 
On to a bench straight leapt he, to see the knights of Bhine. 
Said he, "sure Hagan's serving the very worst of wine." 

2052. 
The host was sore bewilder'd with horror and surprise ; 
What crowds of Mends and subjects were slain before his eyes! 
Scarce 'midst the bloody turmoU himself from danger free. 
He sat in mortal anguish ; what boot was his a ting to be ? 

2053. 
Proud EJiemhild cried to Dietrich in ghastly drear aifright, 
" Help me with thy valour, good and noble knight 
By the worth of all the princes of th' Amelungers' land. 
If Hagan only reach me, Death have I close at hand." 



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360 TniBTT-THran ADTKirrrKE. 

2054. 
" Pair queen," replied Sir Dietrich, " how can I be^ you here? 
Or how protect nnotber when for myself I fear ? 
So wroth are these Bui^gnndians, bo high their pasmona mn. 
That I in auch a moment can promise peace to none." 

2056. 
" N&j, say not so, Sir Dietrich, renown'd and noble knight ! 
Show forth this day amongst us tliy high heroic might 
To bring me hence in safety ; else, I shall surely die. 
Dole and dismay beset me ; in mortal strait am I." 

2056. 
" At least rU maks the trial, if boot yon yet I can, 
For ne'er before beheld I many a mighty man, 
To sudden vrath enkindled, so fierce to battle rush. 
Blood see I through the helmets at every sword-Btroke gush." 

2057. 
So the ieir queen's entreaty be would no longer scorn ; 
Up his voice be lifted like a blast on a bufialo's bom. 
That all the echoing caatle rung througH its breadth and length ; 
So loud the voice of Dietrich, so wondrous was his strength ! 

2058. 
Soon aa heard king 6unther the voice of such a man 
Peal o'er the clash and tumult, to listen he began. 
8aiA he, " the voice of Dietrich aounds in my ears amiun ; 
I fear our eager champions some Mend of his have alain. 

2059. 
I see him on the table beckoning with his hand.-^— 
Xoving friends and kinsmen of Burgundy's iair land, 
Hold a little season ! let us hear and see 
What we have done to Dietrich, or what his wish may be." 



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HOW THE BTTBOinrDIAKS TOITGHT WITH THE HUNS. 351 
2060. 

Soon ae thus king Gunther begg'd and conmumded too, 
In tV heat of that dire strugg^ back tbeir swords they drew ; 
Yet more his power effected, that still they stood and stem ; 
Then thus the king of Bhinelaad beepake the lord of Bern. 

2061. 
Said he, " right noble Dietrich, has oxlj of my Mends 
Done you here ui injury P I'll make you full amends. 
Be sure, the satis&ction shall with the fault along. 
In sooth, 't would inly grievo me, were you to suffer wrong." 

2062. 
Him answer'd good Sir Dietrich, " no cause have I to grieve ; 
Let me with your safe-conduct this hall of Etzel's leave. 
And quit this bloody banquet with those who follow me, 
And for this grace for ever I'll at your service be." 

2063. 
" Why beg instead of bidding ?" fierce Wolfhart iuterpos'd, 
" The door, methinks, yon minstrel has not so firmly clos'd. 
But wo can set it open, and go where'er we will." 
" Silence P' retum'd Sir Dietrich," the devil prompts thee ill." 

2064. 
" I give yon fiill permission," thus noble Gunther sp^e, 
" Hence whom you will, Sir Dietrich, or few or muiy, take, 
lEzcept my mortal foemen ; in Hungai; hare tb^ 
Done deadly wrong to Chinther, and here behind must stay." 

2065. 
Then linger'd not the Bemer ; under his ann he took 
The noble queen all trembling ; fear-stricken was her look. 
On the other side king Etzel away with him he led. 
Eke many a stately champion forth vrith Sir Dietrich sped. 



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3S2 THIBTT-THIHD ADTEFTirEE. 

2066. 

The noUe margrave Budeger then cried, " if any more 
Hay quit this house imuijur'd, taiA pass jon reeking door, 
Tell ua, who ever lo/djou, and now would serve your ends. 
So peace will last for erer with true and faithful friende." 

2067. 
Thereto made answer Giaelher the knight of Burgundy, 
" I>et there be peace betwixt ub and constant amity. 
For you were ever fidthiul, you and your warriors tried, 
So part ye hence in safe^, tmd all your Mends beside." 

2068. 
Soon as the good Sir Budeger left the Wood-reeking hall, 
There foUow'dhim stout champions fire hundred or more in all. 
In this the lords of Bhinelaud did &ithfiilly and well, 
Yet ruin and destmction ting Gunther thence befelL 

2069. 
Just then a knight of Hungary, who saw king Etzel ti^e 
Hia way beude Sir Dietrich, came nigh for safety's sake, 
When hi-m the fiirious minstrel with such a Bword-stroke sped. 
That at the feet of Etzel straight lay hia sever'd head. 

2070. 
Socm as the lord of Hungary &om th' house had come at last, 
He tum'd, and on fierce Folker as fierce a glance he cast. 
" Woe's me for these fell stiangers ! Oh grievous strait," he said, 
" That aU my ^th&l warriors should lie before them dead ! 

2071. 
Ah ! woe for this sad meeting ! woe for this festal-fight ! 
There spreads, within, destruction one that Folker hight ; 
Like a wild boar he rages, yet but a minstrel he. 
Thank heaven ! 't is well in safety &om such a fiend to be. 



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FOUaHT WITH THE HttKB. 353 



In sooth, ill Bound hie measurea ; his Btrokee are bloody red ; 
Hia oft lepeSited quavera lay many a hero dead. 
I know not why this gleeman should spite ub o'er the rest ; 
Never had I for c^iam bo troubleBome a gueBt." 

2073. 
Thereat straight to their quarters the noble knighta withdrew, 
The lordof Bern Sb Dietrich, and the good margrave too. 
To mix in that fierce strug^e neither had desire, 
And from it too their followers they bad in peace retire. 

2074. 
But had the bold Burgundiaos foreseen the deadly woe 
That they &om those two champions were soon to undergo, 
Ne'er &om the hall had either so quietly been sent. 
But at their hands had suffer'd a bloody chastisement. 

2075. 
They, whom they pleas' d, |>ermitted to leave that hall of ill ; 
Then rose within, redoubled, the death-cry wild and shrill. 
The guests 'gainst their wrong-doers for deadly vengeance strove; 
Folker the valiant minstrel, ah ! how the helms he clove ! 

2076. 
At the clash k in g Gunther tnm'd, and to Hagan cried, 
" Hear you what a measure Folker, the door beside, 
Plays with each poor Hungarian who down the stairs would go ; 
See 1 what a deep vermilion has dyed his fiddle-bow !" 

2077. 
" I own, it much repents me," Hagan straight replied, 
" That. I sat here at table from the good knight so wide. 
We Btill were constant comrades, not wont before to sever. 
If we again see Bhiueland, no chance shall part us ever. 



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854 3SISTY<F0irBTH ADTXHTITBS. 

2078. 
S<yw see, great king t right loyal to tliee ia Folker bold ; 
Well deserves the warrior thy silyer and thy gold. 
His fiddlestick, sharp-cutting, can hardest steel divide 
And at a stroke can shiver the morion's beamy pride. 

2079. 
Never yet earn 1 ininBtrel so high and lordly stand, 
Aa did to-day Sir Polker among the hostile band. 
On faelma and dattermg bucklers hia lays make music rare. 
Side should he good war-horses, and gorgeous raiment wear." 

2080. 
Of all the fierce Hungarians that at the board had bem. 
Now not a single champion remain'd alive within. 
Then first was hush'd the tumult, when none waa left to fight. 
Then down his sword laid reeking each bold Burgundiau knigbt. 



THIHTT-POtTETH ADTENTUBB. 

HOW THBZ THBXW DOWN THE DBAS. 
2081. 

Thsit after all their labour the lords sat down at last. 
Before the ball together Eolker and Hagan pass'd. 
The pair of haughty champicms upon their bucklers leant. 
And each the time with th'other in gentle converse spent. 

2082. 
Then the youthful Oiselher thus hia mind ezpress'd, 
"Te must not yet, dear comrades, think of ease or rest ; 
From out the hoiue first hasten to bear the dead away. 
Once more shall we do battle ; that I can truly say. 



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HOW THET TUBEW DOWN THE DT.iB. 355 

2083. 

Beneath our feet 'twere better they should iio longBT lie. 
Ere tfaeee proud Huiu subdue ua, and we o'ermaBtBr'd die, 
Hewn will be many a hauberk, and blood in torrents flow; 
No sight can please me better than a bleeding foe." 

2084. 
" I'm proud of sucli a moater," cried Hagan with delight ; 
" Who could e'er give such counsel save a redoubted knight P 
"When words bo wise and raliant irom our young lord you hear, 
Needs must ye, bold Biurgundians ! be all of lively cheer." 

2085. 
The counsel straight th^ follow'd, and cairied through the door. 
And cast out &om amraig them, seven thousand dead or more. 
Adown the stairs they tumbled and lay in heqis bellow. 
Then burst forth from their kiuEimen a thrilling screun of woe. 

2086. 
'Mongst these was many a warrior, though wounded and in pmn, 
Who yet with milder treatment might have wox'd whole again. 
Cnish'd by the fall they perifih'd, who half had 'sc^'d the sword. 
Their friends with moans of sorrow their fetal doom deplor'd. 

2087. 
Then spake the minstrel Folker, the warrior void of fear, 
" I oft have heard reported, and now behold I clear. 
That Huns ore vile and worthlesB ; they like weak women wail, 
When they should tend the wounded, and soothe their dreary 
bale." 

2088. 
Thenween'daHumushniargrave,hethaBthroughkindnsss spake; 
He saw a InckleBs fciTmiimii &ll'n in a Uoody lake ; 
So threw his arms about him, and hop'd away to beu. 
Him shot to death the minstrel ; down fell he dying there. 



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856 THIETT-TOUBTH ABTEK-nTEB. 

2089. 
Wlieti this was seen b; th' others, tliey took at once to flight ;- 
Th&t same redoubted gLeemiui all curs'd with bU their might. 
He brandish'd high a javelin, well-temper'd, bright, and been, 
Which b^ a Hun against him before had darted been. 

2090. 
This through the echoing castle he sent with mastering main 
Far o'er the crowd of tremblers ; that shot to 'EtzsYa train 
Chive another station more distant &om the halL 
The matchless strength of Folker dismay'd their leaders all. 

2091. 
Before the house assembled were many thousand men ; 
Sir Folker and Sir Hagan both together then 
Began unto king Etzel all their mind to tell. 
Whence grieroua ill thereafter both the good knights bef^. 

2092. 
"The trembling crowd to hearten," said H^an, " sure 't is right 
That kings and leaders ever be foremost in the fight ; 
E'en BO do here among ua my own redoubted lords. 
And, when they deaye the morions, blood spouts beneath their 
swords." 

2093. 
A valiant knight was Etzel ; Ms shield in hand he took. 
" Be wary," cried dame Eriemhild; "to your good liegemen look; 
Fill shields with gold, to move them yon stranger to defy. 
Death must be needs your neighbour if Hagm comes you nigh." 

2094. 
The king he was so fearless, he would not budge an inch ; 
Seldom are such great princes so diedndin'd to flinch. 
By his shield's thong his warriors then drew him back perforce. 
Hagan went on to mock him in accents loud and coarse. 



BOV THXY THSEW HOWS THE DEiJ>. 3o7 

2095. 

** P fititb the kin was distaat," he cried with Hcomful Bound, 
" That Etzel and Sir Sieg&ied in one alliance bound. 
He cheer'd fur lady Ejiemhild long ere Bhe look'd on thee. 
Sishonour'd Mng and woithlesa ! why knit thy brow at me P" 

2096. 
Hie proud diadainAil mockery the wrath of KriBmhUd stirr'd ; 
To be revil'd of Hagan, while Etzel's wwriore heard. 
And jeer'd before the many, waa more than she could brook, 
So now yet deadlier counsel against the guests she took. 

2097. 
" Who Hagtm, lord of Trony, shall slay," she fiercely said, 
" And bring nnto me hither hia abhorred head. 
For him the shield of Etzel 111 heap with ruddy gold. 
And give him too for guerdon lands and castles manif<dd." 

2098. 
"I know not," said the minstrel, "what now can keep them back; 
Sure never saw I warriors so heartless stand and slack, 
"When a fair dame had promie'd such rich and ample pay. 
Etzel can trust them nerer if they should flinch to-day. 

2099. 
Those who the bread of Etsel hare eaten many a year, 
And, when his need ia greatest, like cowards &il him here. 
These see I stand fear-troubled ; they dare not move a jot. 
And yet would pass for warriors ! shame ever be their lot !" 

2100. 
Thus with distress and sorrow was Etzel ill bestead. 
Bight bitterly bewailing his kin and subjects dead. 
Good knights of many a country stood round, a moumfid ring, 
And for that bloody banquet wept with their weeping king. 



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90S THIBTT'FTFTH ADTEBTCKE. 

2101. 
Then thought the best among l^m, "mieFolker telle ub true." 
But noue bo inly sorrow'd of all that wavoing crew. 
As the bold margrave Iring, the fewleBS Dtuueh knight ; 
This soon he prov'd before them by deeds cX manly might. 



THIETT-PIFTH ADVBNTTTEE. 
HOT iBnre vab tiiAnr. 

2102. 
Teek loudly shouted Iring the Danish margrave stnmg, 
" I've shap'd my coTirse in honour, and aim'd at glory long, 
And ever have in battle home me like a knight, 
80 bring me now my hameBS, and I'll with Hagan fight." 

2103. 
" That I scarce would counsel," in scorn Sir Hagan cried. 
" Bid the knights of Hungary stand farther yet aside. 
Let two or three together then leap into the hall, 
Bad wounded down the staircase 111 dash them one and all." 

2101. 
" ril not renounce my challenge," Iring stem replied, 
" Ere now have I, and often, such hard adventures tried. 
N'ow sword to sword I'll meet thee ; let mth aside be flung ! 
What boots thy haughty paaaion, and valour of the tongue P" 

2105. 
Then at once 9ir Iring arm'd ^™ for the fight, 
And ImMed of Thuringia, a young and lusty knight, 
And the laige-limb'd Hawaii with s thousand in his train ; 
All sought to vouch the quarrel of that redoubted Dane. 



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ROW iBnra was sluv. 859 

2106. 
Soon aa the datmtleBa minabvl bo huge a troop espied 
Forth all m armour coming on the fierce margraTo's aide, 
Each with hia jittering helmet Uc'd ready for the fray, 
Somewhat the wrath of Folker kindled at their array. 

2107. 
" See you now, friend TTngan, liow comes Sir Iring nigh ? 
Sure I must condemn him — ill fits a knight to lie. 
To stand against thee singly he promis'd just before. 
And now he brings in armour a thousand chie& or more." 

2108. 
" Call me not a liar," Hawart's liegeman cried. 
" Tes ! I have given a promise ; I'd &in my words abide, 
ril ne'er renounce th' adventure ; fearu-to me unknown ; 
How fierce soe'er be Hagan, I'll meet him here abne." 

2109. 
He b^g'd his friends and kinsmen, down ftlling at thmr feet, 
That they would let him singly the stem Burgundiaa meet. 
Fain would they hare denied him, for all too well they knew 
How stout a knight was Hagan, and how remorseless too. 

2110. 
So long he still entreated, at last th^ gave consent ; 
"When him on that fierce battle they saw so wildly bent 
And BO athiiHt for honour, with grief they let him go. 
A deadly strife then follow'd 'twixt either frowning fi>e. 

21U. 
The valiant knight of Denmaik bore high his quivering spear, 
And crouch'd beneath his buckler through caution, not through 

fear. 
Then, to the hall swift mounting, with Hagan sought to close. 
From the death-doing champions a deafening din arose. 



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860 THIETr-FITTH ABTE3«TXrBB. 

2112. 
Each cast liis spear at th' other vith such o'ermastering might,' 
Piercing through the strong bucklers e'en to the harneaa bright 
That the ehaAs, high whirhng, to a distance flew ; 
Their aworda then, stemif &owning, the rival chompiona drew. 

2118. 
Hnge was theatrength of Hagan, his heart and hand were rtont, 
Yet on him smote Sir Iring, that rang the hall throughoat. 
"Wall and tower re-echoed at every thundering Uow. 
Still could not he Ms purpose work on his burly foe. 

2114. 
So Iring there let Hagan as yet unwounded stand. 
And on the warlike minstrel tum'd at once bis hand ; 
He tlrought to bring him under with buffets fierce and fell, 
But the long-pnictiB'd ^eemaa bis blows aU warded well. 

2115. 
Then Folker, kindling passion, smote Iring's buckler so, 
That the steel plates which bound it flew off at every blow. 
Then tum'd he &om the minstrel (be struck too boiateroualy), 
And fell at once on Ounther the king of Burgundy. 
2116. 

Then 'twiit the valiant couple a fiirious strife arose ; 

Eing Gunther and Sir Iring, like bail they bandied blows. 

Tet the red blood conld neither with all his buffets draw, 

So goodly was tbeir hmness without a lault or flaw. 
2117. 

With that he left king Ounther, and strai^t at Ckmot ran ; 

The fire &om out his mailcoat to hammer he began. 

But then to him king Qemot made such a fierce reply, 

I%at the redoubt«d Iring he all but did to die. 



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HOW iBTiro Via amtr; 361 

2118v 
From the prince he bounded ; swift the warrior flew ; 
Four of the Burgundians in a trice he dew, 
All high-descended courtiers &om 'Worms across the Bhine ; 
"Well might the youthful Giselher at auch a loss repine. 

2119. 
" Now by heav^ Sir Iring !" in his wrath he siud, 
" Thy life ahall pay the forfeit for those who here lie dead 
Through thy remorseless fuiy." — ^He ran at him fiill fleet, 
And smote the Sane so sternly, he could not teep his feet. 

2120. 
Down he dropp'd befoite him grorelUng in the gore ; 
Sure then ween'd each beholder that he never more 
Blow would give or pany on a battle-day ; 
Tet Iring all unwounded before his foeman lay. 

2121. 
So deep his morion aoimded, so loud the eword-atrobe clash'd, 
His aenaes were confounded aa to the ground he daah'd. 
And like a corpse, though living, he lay nnconscioua there ; 
So wondroua waa the proweas of atrong-arm'd Oiselher ! 

2122. 
When from hie brain bewilder'd the swoon had parted alow. 
Which had hia wits confounded from that o'ermastering blow. 
Thought he, " I yet am living, and aU unwounded too. 
Kow knoW'I'ljBaelhra-'a manhood, and feel what he can do." 

2123-. 
He heard his foes about him aa there he lay o'ertiirovm ; 
Worse would he have to fsuSer if once the truth were known. 
Well too the youthful Q-iaelher perceiv'd he standing by. 
Thai thought; he, from amongst them by what device to fly. 



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862 THIBTt-TrFTH ADTESTHBI. 

2124. 
From the blood lie atarted ; preaaiDg was hia need ; 
Sure for Mb good fortune he might flunk his speed. 
From the house he daited just where Hsgan stood, 
And struck at him in passing with all the force he could. 

2125. 
Thenthought the knight of Trony, "thouM in the clutch of death; 
Sure, but thederQ guard thee,thou canst not 'scape with breath." 
Yet with a wound through th' liead>piece he straight Bir Hagan 

paid ; 
That did the knight with Wasky, his sharp and peerlesa blade. 

3126. 
Soon as fierce Sir Hagan felt the gaafa and pain, 
With hia Hword upUfted he ruah'd upon the Sane. 
No more against his tary could Hawart's man make head; 
Swift down the stairs Sir HaguL pursued him as he fled. 

2127. 
AboTo Ms head bold tring held up Ms buckler strong ; 
Had that same scanty sturcase been fuU thrice as long, 
No time had Hagan left him to strike a single stroke. 
Ah ! what a shower of sparkles red &om his morion broke 1 

2128. 
Yet safe and sound Sir Iring came to his firiends afain. 
Soon then were told to Eiriemhild th' achievements of the Sane, 
And what he nlito Hagan had done with his good blade. 
Thus nnto the warrior her fer/eat thanks she paid. 

2129. 
" Now God reward thee, Iring I a noble knight thou art ; 
Thou hast reriT'd my courage and comforted my heart. 
OnHagan's blood-stain'd armour, through thyboiddeed, I Wk." 
With her own buid then &om him his shield for joy she took. 



HOW iBina Vi.a si.aI5. 363 

2130. 
"Your thanka you'd better KuBband," said Hagaa Btem and higbj 
" 'T would well befit a warrior hia chance once more to try. 
If then he came back acathless, he'd be indeed a knight. 
This scratch will boot you little ; bo e'en a child could raute. 

2131. 
The blood you aee so gladly, which streaks my mul with red. 
It but the more provokes me to heap this land with dead. 
My strength is undiminish'd, my wrath is now begun ; 
Tou 11 feel, how little mischief to me has Iring done." 

2132. 
Iring the knight of Denmark there stood agwnst the breeze, 
Cooling him in his mailcoat, with hehn unlac'd for ease. 
Loud said those about him how bold he was and brave. 
Their praise to the good champion the loftiest courage gave. 

2183. 
Then thus outspoke Sir Iring, " Friends I this for certain know ; 
Arm me, sad delay not ; once more I'U prove my foe. 
Kia fierce and haughty bearing I can no longer brook." 
Hia ahield was hewn and Bhatter*d ; a better atraight he took. 

2134. 
Soon waa arm'd the warrior, and better than before ; 
He shook iu wrath and fiuy the weighty spear he bore ; 
With this againat hia foeman with sturdy atridea ho went. 
Hate-sparkling eyea upon him the fierce Sir Hagan bent. 

2186. 
Th' attack of bold Sir Iring he would not there await ; 
Down the atairs he bounded, and ran iqKin him straight, 
Now dariing, and now smiting ; hia wrath waa at the height ; 
Little then hia prowess avail'd the Danish knight. 



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■FIFTH AB^'ETTTDEK. 
2136. 

The cliampioiiB amote so fiercely, that fire-red blasts began 
To hum from either buckler ; then Hawart'a lucklt^a man 
So grievously was vounded by Hagan'a monstrous mam 
Through aever'd shield and morion, he ne'er was whole again. 

2137. 
That wound dash'd Iring's courage ; he felt him iU bestead ; 
He rais'd his shield yet higher to guard his bleeding head ; 
He deem'd it grievous mischief, the wound it was so sore ; 
Yet at the hand of Hagau bad be to suffer more. 

2138. 
A spear the man of Chintber found lying at his feet ; 
This at the head <^ Iring he darted sure and fleet. 
Bo that the shaft ou^utted, quivering, from his brow. 
A {atd, end has Hagan made of his foeman now ! 

213d. 
Bach to his Danes Sir Iring recoil'd with faltering pace ; 
Ere fiiom his bead his comrades the helmet could unlace, 
They broke from it the javelin ; then close was death at hand. 
His kindred wept around him, a sorrow-laden band. 

2140. 
Anon the queen came thither ; she o'er the dying bent, 
Bewailing dauntless Iring with ghastly drearimeut, 
And for his wounds sore weeping, and mourning for bia sake. 
Then thus among bis kinsmen the hero iaintly spake. 

2141. 
" Fair and noble lady ! cease ibr me to grieve. 
What avails your weeping P my life I needs must leave ; 
Yes ! the wounds aro mortal that thus have pierc'd me thFough. 
Death will not leave me longer to Btzel and to you." 



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HOW ISinO WAS BLAIN. 365 

2142. 
Th£n thus to each Thuringiaa he apake oad every Dane, - 
" Hope not for gifte from Kriemhild, nor count her gold for gain, 
For here, my friends ! I warn you, e'en with my latest breath, 
If once you fight with Eagan, you needs must loot on death." 

2143. 
His lively hue was faded ; the stamp of death he bore ; 
For the redoobted Iring hia comrades aorrow'd sore. 
JSereT could recover atout B!awart's vassal true. 
Perforce each man of Denmurk took to his sword anew. 

214A. 
Imfried at once and Hawart both hurried towards the hall 
"With a thousand warriors ; from amongst them aU . 
Loud peal'd the shout of battle ; fierce was their wrath and hot.. 
Ah ! what a sleet of javelins at those of Bhioe they shot ! 

2145. 
0pon the valiant gleeman bold Imfried rush'd amain. 
But at his hand deBtruction was ail that he could gain. 
A stem man was the minatrel as e'er in field met foe. 
Through th' helm he smote the landgrave a deep anddeadly blow. 

2146. 
Sir Imfried aa Sir Folker dealt too a sturdy stroke, 
That of his temper'd hauberk the links asunder broke. 
And vdth the dint his hamesa all sparkled fiery red. 
Then straight b^ore the minstrel down dropp'd the landgrave 
dead. 

2147. 
Sir Hawart and Sir Hagan dos'd too in deadly fight ; 
Their strife to each beholder was sure a wondrous sight. 
Huge strokes from their keen weapons fell thick on either side, 
Till by the stem Burgundian perforce Sir Hawart died. 



ogle 



866 TQIBTI-FITTH ^DTZHTCBE. 

2148. 

When Danes now and Thuringians saw both their leaders slain, 
Against tiie house yet fiercer nish'd on the shouting train. 
Loud round the Bounding portal the din of battle peal'd, 
And many a helm was cloven, and shatter'd many a shield. 

2119. 
" Fall back, my fri^ids t" aidd Polker, "e'en let them enter in, 
Yield for awhile the passage they so desire to win. 
Full soon they'll &11 together within our bloody hold, 
And reap with death and ruin dame Ejiemluld's &tal gold." 

2150. 
Those overweening champions the hall had enter'd now ; 
Many a proud head among them was sudden taught to bow 
Beneath the deadly sword-Btrokes of the fierce warriors there. 
Wen fought the valiaat 6«mot, well too young Giselher. 

2151. 
A thousand aod four togetiier bad come into the hall ; 
Tou might see the broadswords flmliing rise and &11 ; 
Socm the bold intruders all dead together Uy ; 
Of those renown'd Burgundians strange marrels one might say. 

2152. 
Thereafter reign'd deep silence; the din of war was hush'd; 
Through every creak and cranny the blood on all sides gnsh'd 
From that huge hill of slaughter ; red did the gutters run. 
So much was through their prowess by those of Bhinelaiid done! 

2163. 
With that the bold Burgundians sat down awhile to rest. 
_His bloody sword and buckler down laid each panting guest. 
Still stood th' unwearied minstrel on guard the house before, 
To watch if any foeman shontd seek te force the door. 



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now TBI QDSXK 6ATX OBDEBS TO BVON DOWN THE HALL. 367 
2154. 

Sore wail'd the rojti. Etzel, Bore too hia lad^ wept. 
And Bobbing cUmes and damaela like moumfid concert kept. 
Fell Death, I ween, had taken hia oath to do them ill. 
Alas ! by thoae fierce Btnuigers m<»>e were to perish still. 



THIETT-SIXTH ADVENTTTBE. 

HOW THX QUISEB QAYE OBBBBB TO BUBN SOWIT THB HALL. 
2155. 

" So now unlace your helmetB," undaunted Hagan cried, 
" I and my conunde o'er you will watch leat harm betide, 
And should the men of Etzel again to fight come on, 
Be Bure I will not dally, but warn my lords anon." 

2156. 
Then many a prowest champion disarm'd his lofly head ; 
Down sat they on the corpses, that wide the floor bespread. 
And lay in blood before them as by their hands they died; 
dose still by Hate sod Vengeance the noble guests were spied. 

2167. 
Kot yet come on bad evening, when the fierce king anew 
And vengeance-breathing Eriendiild to fight together drew 
The mighty men of Hungary ; before him muster'd stood 
Better than twenty thousand prepar'd fiw blows and blood. 

2168. 
Once more 'gainst the Burgondiana a fearM strife arose ; 
Dankwart before the portal among the duatering foes 
From bis lords undaunted leapt forth with a light bound. 
'Twaathought he longhodperish'd; outatepp'dhesafe and sound. 



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888 THTBTT-SIXTS ADYSSTVKE. 

2159. 

The deadly Htniggle lasted till it was Btopp'd bj night ; 
The guests themselves defended 'gainst Etzel's men of might 
Ab veil became good warriors all through a, summer's da;. 
Ah I what ledoubted champions dead before tbem ]a,j ! 

2160. 
'T was e'en on a midamniner befell that murderons fight, 
When on her nearest kinsmen and many a noble knight 
Dame Eriemluldwreak'd the imguish that long in heart she bore, 
Whence inly griey'd king Etzel, nor joy knew ever more. 

2161. 
Yet on such sweeping slaughter at first she had not thought ; 
She only had for vengeance on one transgressor sought. 
She wish'd that but on Hagui the stroke of death might fall ; 
'T was the foul fiend's contriving, that they should perish alL 

2162. 
And now the day was ended ; ill were they then bestead ; 
They thought, 't were surely better that they at once were dead, 
Then in slow torture lingering unhopefid of release. 
Those high and haughty warriors, ah ! how they yeam'd for peace ! 

2168. 
They begg'd the Huns, king Etzel to bring before the hall ; 
Themselves then, blood-bedabbled and hamess-stain'd withal, 
With the threeroyalbrethren&omth'housemov'difunt and slow. 
To whom to plain, they knew not, in their o'ermastering woe.. 

2164. 
So new them both together Iltzel and Kriemhild drew ; 
To them belong'd the country ; their host thus greater grew. 
He thus bespoke the strangers, " now what would you with roe ? 
Hope you for peace and fiiendahip ? that sure can hardly be. 



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HOW THE QrEEN OATE OBDEKB TO BUaU BOWN THE HALL. 369 

2166. 
A&er the deadly mischief tliat yoa to me have done. 
The aUugbter of my kinsmen, the murder of my son. 
Cause ehall jou hare to rue it aa long aa I have life ; 
So peace and truce e^iect not, but war and mortal strife." 

2166. 
" Our grievoua need compell'd us," in answer Ghrather said, 
" My train before your warriors fell in their quarterB dead ; 
How had I e'er deserv'd it, or they, that bloody end ? 
I came in faith to see thee, I ween'd thou wert my friend." 

2167. 
Then spake the bold Burgundian, the youthfid GKaelhw, 
" Te noble knights of Etzel, who yet are living here. 
In what have I offended ? or how incurr'd your bltone ? 
In kind and simple friendship into this land I came." 

2168. 
" Ay !" said they, " to our sorrow this castle and realm beside 
Are both full of thy kindness ; would you bad never hied. 
Thou and thy bloody brethren, from Worms across the Rhine ! 
Tou've fill'd our land with orphans ;~ so much for thee and 
thine!" 

2169. 
Thereto in angry accents Sir Ghinther made reply, 
" K you would turn to friendship, and this wild hate lay by 
'Gainst us home-distant warriors, 't were well for us and you. 
Tour king will strike the guiltlesa if otherwise he do," 

2170. 
Then to the guests said Etzel, " no equal loss, I trow. 
Have yoa and I encoimter'd ; the toU, the pain, the woe. 
The shame as well as damage that I have borne to day — 
for this, not one among yon shall living hence away." 
2 B 

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870 THIHTT-aiXTH ADTEHTrEE. 

2171. 

Then to the king said Gemot, the death-dt^ring knight, 
" At least may Qod work with you in this to do us right. 
If you're resolv'd to aliiy ub, to th' open space and free 
Let UB come dorra to meet you ; 't will to yoor honour be. 

2172. 
Whate'er ia to befall U8, let it quick be done ; 
'GlainBt such a host of warriora hope can we chenBh none. 
Scarce con we fight o'erwearied, much less attempt to Sy. 
How long will you compel us to pant and struggle ere we die F" 

2173. 
Then would the knights of Btzel theirwish have granted straight, 
And let come out the strangers before the palace gate. 
Wroth thereat was Kriemhild ; she had heard it soon. 
Quickly to the strangers was denied the boon. 

2174. 
" Xo ! no ! Hungarian heroes ! my counsel take for true. 
And grant them not their longing ; beware of what you do ; 
Ne'er let those bloody murderers come out firom yonder hall. 
Or surely must your kinsm^i endure a deadly &1L 

2175. 
Were none of them yet living but Uta's children there. 
My high-descended brothers, if once they got freah air 
To cool their heated harness, you'd one and all be lost ; 
The world has no such warriors ; you'd learn it to your coat." 

2176. 
Then spake the youthiul Giselher, " ^rest sister mine, 
I little ween'd, thy summons call'd me o'er the lUiine, 
la this net of treason and mortal strait to lie. 
How here of these Hungarians hare I deserVd to die P 



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HOW THE qUEES GATE OHDXBS TO BrB» DOWM THE HAII.. 371 
2177. 

To thee true waa I ever ; I never did thee wrong ; 
Loving and confiding I hither came along, 
For thou, I thought, deaf Bister, didst bear like love to me. 
Oh ! look on us with kindness ! what else should we expect 
&om thee ?" 

2178, 
" Talk not to me of kindness ! unkind is all my thought. 
Against me he of Trony sucli grievous wrong has wrought, 
Never can I forgive it as long as I have life j 
For that you all must suffer," said Etzel's fiinous wife. 

2179. 
" Yet would you to me Hagan up for a prisoner give. 
No longer I'd refuse you, but fein would let you live, 
For you're indeed my brethren, all of one mother sprung ; 
Then of the fit atonement I'd speak these lords among." 

2180. 
"Now God in heaven forbid it!" Sir G^emot proudly said; 
" "Were there a thousand of us, we'd rather all lie dead. 
All thy noble kinsmen, than e'er that only one 
Give up to thee a captive ; no ! that can ne'er be done." 

2181. 
" So we must die," said Giselher, " 'scape can we never hence ; 
Still valiantly and knightly we'll stand on our defence. 
Let him then, who would prove us, do now his worst endeavour; 
I never fifiend abondon'd, nor will abandon ever." 

2182. 
Then, scorning bnger silence, cried Dmkwart void of fear, 
" Ay ! my good brother Hagan stands not lonely here. 
Th^ who peace deny us, shall soon their anger rue. 
We'll t«ach you bitter knowledge; take these my words for true." 
2 b2 

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872 THIETT-aiXTH LDVBSTVnS. 

2183. 
Thengpake the queen, "braye warriors, thia hour to you belongs; 
Up ! cloeer to the staircase ! take vengeance for my wrongs 1 
"Wliat thrift requites good aerviee, I'll ahow you well to-day. 
The insolence of Hagan I will in lull repay. 

2184. 
Let not a soul forth sally ; their courage Boon we'U tame ; 
I'll etraight at the four comers bid aet the hall on flame. 
And thus will I revenge me at once for all my woes," 
^lick Etzel's knights made ready, and fell upon her foes. 

2185. 
"Who yet without were standing, they instant drove within 
By dint of darts and broadswords ; deafening rose the din ; 
Tet nought their valiant followers could from the princes part; 
Cloae link'd they atood together with fix'd and faithful heart. 

2186. 
"With that, the wife of Etzel bad set the hall on fire. 
How sore then were they tortur'd in burning Miguiah dire I 
At once, as the wind freshen'd, the house was in a glow. 
Never, I ween, were 'mortals in such extremes of woe. 

2187. 
" "We ^ are lost together," each to hia neighbour cried, 
" It had been &r better we had in battle died. 
Now God have mercy on us 1 woe for thia fiery pain 1 
Ah I what a monatrous vengeance the btoody queen haa ta'en!'* 

2188. 
Then fiuntly said another, " needa must we here &11 dead ; 
"What boots ns now the greeting, to ua by Etzel sped ? 
Ah me ! I'm bo tormented by thirst from buraing beat. 
That in this horrid anguish my life mnat quickly fieet." 

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HOW THE qUEEH QATE OBDEBS XO BDEK DOWS THE HALL. 373 

2189. 
Thereat outepake Sir Hagan, the noble knight and good, 
" Let each, by thirat tormeiited, take here a draught of blood. 
In such a heat, believe me, 't is better far than wiae. 
Nought's for the time so fitting; such counsel, friends, ia mine." 

2190. 
With that atraight went a warrior, where a warm corpse be found. 
On the dead down knelt he ; hia helmet he unbound ; 
Then greedily began he to drink the flowing blood. 
However unaccustom'd^it aeem'd him passing good. 

2191. 
" Kow God requite thee, Ha|;an," the weary warrior cried, 
" Por Bucb re&eshing beverage by your advice supplied. 
It has been my lot but seldom to drink of better wine. 
For life am I thy servant for this fitir hint of thine." 

2192. 
Wheuth' othershemrd and wituess'd with what delight he quaff* d. 
Yet many more among them drank too the bloody draught. 
It strung again their sinews, and failing strength renew'd. 
This in her lover's person many a feir lady rued. 

2193. 
Into the hdl upon them the fire-fiakes thickly fell ; 
These with their shields they warded warily and well. 
With smoke and beat together they were tormented sore. 
Never, I ween, good wairiors such burning anguish bore. 

2194. 
Through smoke and flame cried Hagan, "stand close egainat the* 

wall; 
liet not the burning ashes on your helm-lacea ffdl ; 
Into the blood yet deeper tread every fiery flake. 
In sooth, this feast of Eriemhild's is ghastly merry-ma^e." 



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374 THIBTT'BIXTH ASTXKTVSK. 

2195. 

T was well for the Borgimdiaiu that vaulted was the roof; 
This was, in all their danger, the more to their behoof. 
Onl; about the windows from fire they Bn&r'd aore. 
Still, aa their spirit impell'd them, tiiemaelvea they bravely bore. 

2196. 
In such ertremeBof anguish poBs'd off the dreary night. 
Before the hall yet Bleepleoa stood the g^eeman wight. 
And leaning aa his buckler, with Hagan by hia side, 
Lootd out, what fiirtber mischief might from the Huns betide. 

2197. 
Then thus bee{>oke he Hagan, " let 's back into the hall ; 
These Huns will then imagine that we have perish'd all 
In the fiery torment they kindled to our ilL 
They'll see yet some among ua who'U do them battle stilL" 

219S. 
Then the youth&l Giselher, the bold Burgnndian, spake, 
" Methinks the breeze is fresh'uing, the day b^ins to break. 
Better times may wait us — grant it Qod in heaven ! 
To us my sister Eiiemhild a &tal feast has givm." 

2199. 
With that outspake a warrior, " ay [ now I see the day. 
Since we can hope no better in this our hard aesay. 
Let eadi don straight his hameHs, and think upon his life ; 
For soon will be upon us king Etzel's murderous wife." 

2200. 
The host he little doubted but all the guests were dead, 
By toil and fiery torture alike so ill bestead. 
But yet within were living six hundred fearless wights ; 
Crowned king about him ne'er had better knights. 



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now TUB QUBEN QAVB 0ESEB3 TO BUBIT DOWN THE HALL. 875 
2201. 

The BCQutB, who wateh'dthe atrangerB, had now the tanith deecried. 
That, Bpite of a^ the traTail and torment that had tried 
The strength of lords and liegemen, they had Borviv'd it all. 
And safe and sound aa ever Btalk'd np and down the hall. 

2202. 
'T was told the queen, that many unhturo'd were yet to see ; 
" No ! no !" made Eiiemhild answer, " sure it can never be 
That Huch a fiery tempeet has spar'd a aingle head. 
Far sooner will I credit that one and all are dead." 

2203. 
Still long'd both lords and Eegemen for mercy and for grace. 
If they might look for either from any there in place ; 
But neither grace nor mercy found they in Hunniah land. 
So reliance for their ruin they took with eager hand. 

2201. 
And now by early morning a deafening hostile din 
Greeted the weary warriors ; sore peril hemm'd them in. 
From all sides round, against them a shower of misHiles flew ; 
The dauntless band foil knightly stood on defence anew. 

2205. 
The mighty men of Etzel came on embolden'd more. 
For that they hop*d from Ejiemhild to win her precious store ; 
And others too would fnmkly their king's command obey ; 
Thus had full many among them to look on death that day. 

2206. 
Of promises and presents strange nuerels might be told. 
She bad bring bucklers forward heap'd high with ruddy gold ; 
She gave to all who'd take it ; none empty went away. 
Never were spent suidi treasures to woA a foe's decay, 



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876 THIBTX-aETEITTII ASTEXTUAH. 

2207. 
The beet part of the champions came od in warlike gear. 
Then cried the valiant Folker, " we're still to be found here. 
WarriorB advance to battle ne'er saw I yet ao fain, 
Ab those, who to destroy ua king Etzel'a gold have ta'en." 

2208. 
Then &om vrithib cried many, " nearer, ye warriors, still ! 
What's to be done, do quickly, whether for good or ilL 
Here's not a man among us hut is resolv'd to die." 
Darts straight fiU'd all their bucklers, so thick the Huns let fly. 

2209. 
What can I tell you fiirther ? twelve hundred men or more 
To force the fatal entrance attempted o'er and o'er, 
Bntwith sharp wounds the strangerssooncool'dtheirfiery mood. 
None the stern strife could sever ; flow might you see the blood 

2210. 
From gashes deep and deadly ; full many there were sl^n, 
Comrade there for comrade wept and wail'd in vain, 
Till a^ in death together sank Etzel's valiants low. 
Sore moum'dfor them their kinsmen in wild but bootless woe. 



THIBTT-8EVENTH ADVENTUEE. 

HOW UABGBATE BmEGBB WAS SLAIN. 
2211. 

That mom had fought the strangers as fitted well their &me ; 
Afeanwhile fair Ctotelind's husband into the courtyard caxae. 
Nought saw he there on all sides but woe and doleful drear. 
A.t the ei^t wept inly the &itliful Budeger. 



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now UABe&ATE BtrsEOBB WAS aiAiM. 377 

2212. 
" "Woe'a me," begaa the margraTe, " that ever I was bom, 
That none can stay the boitowb of this dieastroua mom I 
Howe'er I long for concord, the king will ne'er agree ; 
Woe sees he wax around him, and more has yet to see." 

2213. 
With that, the faith&I margrave to good Sir Dietrich sent, 
That they might seek together to turn the king's intent. 
Thereto sent answer Dietrich, " the mischief who can stay ? 
To none will now king Etzel give leave to part the &ay." 

2214. 
Just then a Unnnish wurior observ'd the margrave true 
With tear&l eyes there standing, as he was wont to do. 
The same thus said to Kriomhild, " see how he stands to-day. 
Whom Etzel o'er his fellows hath rais'd to power and away, 

2215. 
He who &om all .has service, &om liegemen and &om land ! 
O'er what a crowd of castles has Budcger conmiand ! 
How much the royal Etzel has giv'n him, well we know. 
Yet ne'er in bH this battle has he struck one knightly blow. 

2216. 
Methinka, of what befalls us he takes but little care, 
While of broad fiefs at pleasure he holds an ample share. 
*T is said, in skill and courage the margrave stands alone, 
But ill, I'm sure, have either here in our need be^i shown." 

2217. 
In angry mood this slander the faithful warrior took ; 
He tum'd fuid on the murmurer cast a withering look. 
Thought be,"thou sure shalt pay for it; thousay'stthatlamcow'd; 
I'D show how much I fear thee ; thy t^e was told too loud." 



•.;,IO;COO'^|C 



878 THIETT-BKTEMTn AflVENTU^. 

2218. 
At once Ids fist be doubled, aad fiercely on him ran. 
Such a fearful buffet he dealt the Hunnish man, 
Ah needed not a second ; dead at his feet he lay. 
This wrung the heart of Etzel and heighten'd his dismay. 

2219. 
" Away with thee.baBebabbler!" (thus the good maj^rave spake) 
" Here have I pain and trouble enough my heart to break, 
And thou too must revile me, as here I would not fight ! 
These guests I should with reason have held in high despite, 

2220. 
And plagued them to my utmost alike in act and thought, 
But that I the warriors myself had hither brought. 
I was their guide and conduct into my master's land ; 
Against them ne'er can Budeger uplift his wanderer's hand." 

2221. 
Then unto the margrave spake £tzel standing near, 
" How have you this day help'd us, right noble Budeger ! 
"When dSid in such abundance our bleeding countiy fill, 
Mbre we nothing needed ; you've done us grievous ill." 

2222. 
The noble knight made answer, " I own he stirr'd my mood. 
Twitting me with the favours (brawler coarse and rude !) 
That thy &ee hand so largely has shower'd upon me here ; 
But his ntalicioua tattle hath cost the liar iew." 

2223. 
Then came the fair queen Eriemliild ; she too had seen ftill wdl 
What from the hero's anger the luckless Hun befell ; 
And she too moum'd it deeply ; with tears her eyes were wet. 
Thus she spake to Budeger, " how have we ever yet 



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HOW UAKGaATE BUDEOEB WAS ai.AIK. S7t) 

2224. 
DeHerv'(i,that;^ou,goadBudeger,Bhouldinake our anguish more? 
Now sure to mo and Etzol you've promie'd o'er and o'er, 
That you both life and honour would riek to do us right. 
That you're the flower of knighthood, is own'd by every knight, 

2223. 
Now think upon the homage that once to me you swore, 
When to the Bhine, good warrior, king Etzel's suit you bore, 
That you would serve me ever to either's dying day. 
Ne'er can I need so deeply, that you that tow should pay." 

2226. 
" 'T la true, right noble la^ ; in this we're not at strife ; 
I pledged, to do you aervice, my honour and my life, 
But my soul to hazard neyer did I tow. 
I brought the princes hither, and must not harm them now." 

2227. 
Said she, " remember, Bud^er, the promise thou didst make. 
Thy word, thy oath remember,that thou would'st vengeance take 
On whosoever wrong'd me, and wrong with wrong repay." 
Thereto replied the margrave, " I've never said you nay." 

2228. 
"With that, to beg and pray him the king began as well ; 
Ejng and queen together both at his feet they fell. 
Then might you the good margrave have seen full ill bestead, 
And thus in bitterest anguish the faithful hero said. 

2229. 
" Woe 's me the heaven-abandon' d, that I have liv'd to this i 
farewell to all my honours ! woe for my first amiss 1 
My truth — my God-^v'n innocence — ^must they be both forgot ? 
Woe's me, oh Glod iu heaven I that death relieves me not ! 



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880 THIKTI-SBntNTH ADTENTTJBB. 

2230. 
"WMch part soe'er I foster, and wliiclisoe'er I Bhiin, 
In either case forsaken la good, and evil done ; 
But should I side with neither, aU would the waverer blame. 
Ah ! would He deign to guide me, from whom mj being came !" 

2231. 
Still went they on impbring, the king and eke his wife. 
Whence many & valiant warrior soon came to lose hia life 
B7 the strong hand of Itudeger, and he, too, lastly EeU. 
So all his tale of sorrow you now shall hear me telL 

2232. 
He nothing thence expected but loss and mortal t^en. 
Fain had he giv'n denial alike to fcing and queen. 
Much fear'd the gentle margrave, if in the stem debate 
He slew but one Burgundian,the world would bear him hate. 

2233. 
With that, unto king Etzel thus spake the warrior bold, 
" Sir king ! take back, I pray you, all that of you I hold. 
My fieis, both lands and castles ; let none with me remain. 
To distant realms, a wanderer, I'll foot it forth again. 

2234. 
Thus stripp'd of all possessions I'll leave at once your land. 
Bather my wife and daughter 111 take in either hand, 
Than iaithlesa and dishonour'd in hateful strife lie dead. 
Ah 1 to my own destruction I've ta'en your gold so red." 

2236. 
Thereto replied kin g Etzel, " who then will succour me P 
My land as well as liegemen, all will I ^ve to thee. 
If thou 'It revenge me, Budeger, and smite my foemen down. 
High shalt thou rule with Etzel, and share his kingly crown." 



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BOW HABGBATE BUDEGEB WAS BLAIIT. 



Then spake the blameless margraTe, " how shall I begin ? 

To my house I bad them, as guests I took them in, 

Set meat and drink before them, they at my table fed, 

And my best gifts I gave them ; — haw can I strike tbem dead P 

2237. 
The folk ween in their folly that out of fesr I shrink. 
No ! no ! on former ^toutb, on ancient bonds I think. 
I serv'd the noble princes, I serr'd their followers too. 
And knit with them the Mendsbip, I now so deeply rue. 

2238. 
I to the youthful Oiselher my daughter gave of late ; 
In all the world the maiden could find no .fitter mate. 
True, ftithful, brave, well-nurtur'd, rich, and of high degree | 
Toimg prince yet saw I never so virtue-fraught as he.'" 

2239. 
Then thus bespake bim Eriemhild, " right noble Budeger^ 
Take pity on our anguish ; thou see'st us kneeling here. 
The king and me, before thee ; both clasp thy honour'd knees. 
Sure never host yet feasted such fatal gueste as these." 

2240. 
With that, the noble margrave thua to the queen 'gam say, 
" Sure must the life of Uudeger for all the kindness pay, 
That you to me, my lady, and my lord the king have done. 
Tor this I'm doom'd to perish, and that ere set of sun. 

2241. 
Full well I know, this morning my castles and my land 
Both will to you fall vacant by stroke of foemui's hand. 
And so my wife and daughter I to your grace commend, 
And all at Bechelaren, each trusty homeless friend." 



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ADTBNTUEB. 

2242. 

" Now God," replied king Etzel, " reward thee, Eud^r !'* 

He and his queen together reeum'd their lively cheer. 

" From us shall all thy people receive whate'er they need ; 

" Thou too, I trust, thia morning thyself wilt feirly speed," 
2243. 

So body and soul to hazard put the blameless man. 

Meanwhile the wife of Etzel sore to weep began. 

Said he, " my word I gave you, I'll keep it well to-dfl.y. 

Woe for my Mends, whom Budeger in his owndeepite must slay!" 
2244. 

With that, straight from Vin g Etzel he went with many a sigh. 

Soon his band of heroes found he muster'd nigh. 

Said he, " up now, my warriors I don all your armour bright. 

I 'gainst the bold Bm^undians must to my sorrow fight." 
2245. 

Quick his valiant followers bad their arms be brought. 

In a trice th' attendants shields and helms up caught, 

And aU their glittering hamesB bore to their masters bold. 

Soon to the haughty strangers the sorry news were tcdd. 

2246. 
Arm'd were to see with Budeger five hundred men of might ; 
Twelve besides went with him, each a prowest knight. 
Who hop'd to win them worship on that fierce Bhenish band. 
Little thought the warriors, how close was Death at hand. 

2247. 
So to war the margrave under helmet strode ; 
Sharpest swords his meinj bnmdish'd as they yode ; 
Each in hand, bright-flashing, held his shield before. 
That saw the dauntiess minstrel, and seeing aorrow'd sore. 



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HOir HABBB&TE BUBEOIB W&B SLAIN. 383 

2218. 

Then too was by yoxmg Gieelher his lady's &ther eeen 

With helm laced as for battle; "what," thought he, "can he 

But nought can mean the margrave but what is just and right." 
At the thought full joyous wai'd the youthful knight, 

2249. 
" "Well's me with &iends so faithiul," Sir Qiselher 'gan say, 
" These, whom by happy fortune we gain'd upon the way. 
My late-e6^uBedlady will stand ua in good etead. 
In sooth it much contents me, that e'er I came to wed.' ' 

2250. 
"I know not what you trust in;" thus the stem minstrel spake; 
" Where saw you warriors ever for reconcilement's sake 
With helmets laced advancing, and naked swords in handp 
On us will earn Sir Sudeger his castles and his land." 

2251. 
Scarcely the valiant minstrel his words had utter'd all, 
When the noble Budeger was close before the hall. 
His shield, well proved in battle, before his feet he laid, 
But neither proferr'd service, nor friendly greeting made. 

2262. 
To those withia he shouted, " look not for succour hence ; 
To v^ant Nibelungers, now stand on your defence. 
I'd fain have been your comrade ; your foe I now must be. 
We once were friends together ; now from that bond Vm free." 

2253. 
The hard-beset Bm^^dians to hear his words were woe. 
Was not a man among them, but sorrow'd, high and low. 
That thus a friend and comrade would 'gainat them mingle blows. 
When they so much already had auffer'd from their foes. 



.,„.>,,lc 



S84 THIBTT-BETXHTH AJ>TEIITUSE. 

3264. 
" Nov God forbid," said Gimther, " that such a Inight as you 
To the &ith, wherein ve trusted, should ever prove untrue. 
And turn upon his comrades in such an hour as this. 
Ne'er can I think that Budeger can do so much amisa." 

2256. 
" I can't go back," said Budeger, " the deadly die is cast ; 
I must with you do battle ; to that my word is past. 
So each of you defend hiin as he loves his life. 
I must perform my promise ; so wills king Btzel's wife." 

2266. 
Said Gunther, " this renouncement comes all too late to-day. 
May God, right noble Eudeger, you for the lavonrs pay 
Which you so oft have done us, if e'en unto the end 
To those, who ever lov'd yoo, you show yourself a Mend. 

2267. 
Ever shall we be your serrants for all you've deign'd to give, 
Both I and my good kinsmen, if by your tad we live. 
Your precious gifts, &ir tokens of love and friendship dear. 
Given when you brought us hither, now think of them, good 
Budeger !" 

226S. 
" How fain that would I grMit you !" the noble knight replied ; 
" Would that my gifts for ever might in your hands abide ! 
I'd lain in all assist you, that life concerns or fame. 
But that I fear, eo doing, to get reproach and shame." 

2559. 
" Think not of that, good Budeger," said Gtemot, " in such need. 
Sure host uo'ct guests entreated so well in word or deed, 
As you did us, your comrades, when late with you we stay'd. 
If hence alive you bring us, 't will be in full repaid." 



.,„.,glc 



HOW .HABGKA.TB KUDEQBB W&B SLAITT. '6S5 

.2260. 

" Now would to God ! Sir Gemot," edd Budeger ill bestead, 
" That you were safe in Bhinelaad, and I with honour dead ! . 
Now must I fight against you to serre your siater'e ends. 
Sure never yet were etrangers entreated worse by fiiends." 

2261. 
" Sir Eudeger," anawer'd Gemot, " Gted'a blessing wait on you 
Pot all your gorgeous presentB ! your death I sore should rue, 
Should that pure virtue perish, which ill the world can spare. 
Tour sword, which late you gave me, here by my side I wear. 

2262. 
It never once has fadl'd me in all this bloody fray ; 
Lifeless beneath its edges many a good champion lay. 
Most perfect is its temper ; 't is sharp and strong as bright ; 
Knight sure a gift so goodly will give no mote to knight. 

2263. 
Yet, should you not go backward, but turn our fi^e to-day, 
K of the Mends around me in hostile mood you slay. 
With your own sword, good Budeger, I needs must take your life, 
Tho' you (heaven knows) Ipity.and your good andnoble wife." 

2264. 
" Ah ! would to heaven. Sir Gemot, that it might e'en be so ! 
That e'en as you would wish it this matter all might go. 
And your good friends 'sc^ie harmless from this abhorred strife ! 
Then sure should trust in Gemot my daughter and my wife." 

2266. 
With that, the bold Bui^undian, Mr TJta's youngest, cried, 
" Why do you thus, Sir Budeger ? my friends here t^ my side 
All love you, e'en as I do ; why kindle strife so wild ? 
'T is ill BO soon to widow your late-betrothed child. 
2 c 



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886 THIBTT-SX r ESTH ASTKHTUBI. 

2266. 

Should yon now and yowt followers wage war upon me here. 

How cniel and nsfriendly *t will to the world ^pear ! 

Tor more than cm all others on yon I stiD relied, 

And took, through euch affiance, yonr daughter for my bride.** 

2267. 
"Fair kingl thy troth remember," the blameless knight 'gan say, 
" Shonld Ood be pleaa'd in safety to send thee hence away. 
Iiet not the maiden suffer for ought that I do iU. 
'By your own princely Tirtne voachaafe her fiivour still." 

2268. 
" That will I do and gladly," the yoathiiil knight replied, 
" But should my high-bom kinsmen, who here within abide, 
Once die by thee, no longer could I thy friend be styl'd ; 
My constant lore 't would sever from thee and trom thy child.'' 

2269. 
" Then God have mercy on us !" the ^iant margrave said. 
At once their shields they lifted, and forward fiercely sped 
In the hall <d Kriemhild to f«A«e the stranger crowd. 
Th^«at down from the stair-head Sir Hagan shouted loud, 

2270. 
" Tany yet a little, right noble Budeger ! 
I and my lords a moment would yet with you confer ; 
Thereto hard need compels us, and danger gathering nigh ; 
"What boot were it for Etzel though here forlorn we die P 

2271. 
I'm now," pursued Sir Hagan, " beset with grievous care ; 
The shield that lady Gotelind gave me late to bear, 
Is hewn and ail-to broken by many a Hunnish brand. 
I brought it &ir and friendly hither to Etzel's land. 



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BOW W^BQBjLTI BITDEaCB WAJI aLA.111. 



Ah ! tliat to me tids favour lieavea would be pleas'd to yield, 
That I might to defend me bear ao well-prov'd a shield, 
As that, tight noble Budeger, before thee now display'd ! 
TSo more should I in battle need then the haubeik's aid." 

2273. 
" Fain with the Bame I'd serve thee to th' height of thy desire, 
But th^ I fear, such proffer might wakeu Kriemhild's ire. 
Still, take it to thee, Hagan, and wield it well in hand. 
Ah ! might'st thou bring it with thee to thy Burguudiau laud !" 

2274. 
While thus with words so eourteoua ao fair a gift he sped, 
The eyea of many a champion with scalding tears were red. 
'Twaa the last gift, that buckler, e'er giyeu to comrade dear 
By the lord of Bechelaren, the blameless Budeger. 

2275. 
However atem was Hagau, and of unyielding mood, 
Still at the gift he melted, which one so great and good 
Gave in his last few momenta, e'^i on the eve of %ht, 
And with the atubhom warrior moum'd many a noble knight. 

2276. 
" Kow God iu heaven, good Bud^;er,thy recompenser be I 
Your like on earth, I'm certain, we never more shall see, 
Who gifts BO good and gorgeous to bomeleas wanderers give. 
May Qoi protect your virtue, that it may ever live ! 

2277. 
Alas ! thia bloody bus'neaB 1" Sir Hagan then went on, 
" We have had to bear much sorrow, and more ahall have anon. 
Must friend with friend do battle, nor heaven the conflict part P" 
The noble margrave answer'd, " that wounda my inmoat heart." 
2 2 



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888 THIBTT-aiTEJITH ADTXHrCUBS. 

2278. 
" Now for thy gift Til quit thee, right noble Budeger ! 
"Whate'er may chance between thee and my bold comrades here. 
My band ohall toncb tbee never amidst the beady fight, 
Not e'en if tbon ahonld'st slaughter every Burgundian knight."' 

2279. 
For that to him bow'd conrteoua the blamelcBa Budeger, 
Then all around were weeping for grief and doleful drear, 
since none tb' approaching mischief had hope to turn aside. 
The lather of all virtue in that good mai^rave died. 

2280. 
Then from the boose ctdl'd Folker, the minstrel good at need, 
" Now that my comrade Hagan baa to this truce agreed. 
From my band too, Sir Budeger, take firm and sure the same ; 
You've ever well deserv'd it since to this land we came. 

2281. 
For me, most noble margrave ! you must a message bear ; 
These bracelets red were given me late by your lady feir. 
To wear at this high festal before the royal Hun. 
View them thyself, and tell her that I've her bidding done." 

2282. 
" Ah ! might it please th' Almighty," Sir Budeger replied, 
" That the margravine hereafter should give you more beside 
Tet doubt not, noble Folker, I'll bear this meraage lain 
To my true love and lady, if e'er we meet again-" 

2283. 
So promis'd gentle Eudegor, nor longer dallied yet ; 
TTp bis shield he lifted, and forward fiercely set. 
He le^t on the Burgundians like a prowest knight ; 
Many a swift atroke among them he stru<^ to left and right. 



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HOW HABOBATS 



Sir Folker and Sir Hagan Ixrth from him furtlier stepp'd 
According to their promise which faithfully they k^it, 
But at the stairs were stwtding warrioni so bold and ertont. 
That Budeger the battle began with anxiooB doubt, 

2285. 
King Oimther and Sir G«mot in let him force his vay 
To take his life the surer ; stem knights and fierce were tbey. 
Young Giselher kept bis diataiice ; e'en yet be look'd for life, 
So spai'd, though half unwilling, the iatber- of hie wife. 

2286. 
PoTward the mugntTe's warriorB leapt with fierce intent ; 
In their master's footsteps manfrilly they went. 
Sharp-cutting blades they brandish'd as in close figbt they strove, 
And fibirer'd many a buckler, and many a morion dove, 

2287. 
The guests, though faint and weary, dealt many a storm-Bwift blow 
At those of Bechelaren, that deep and smooth did go 
To flesh and bone and inwards through links of iron weed. 
They wrought in that stem strug^o full many a doughty deed. 

2288. 
The noble train of Budeger now in had enter'd all. 
Folker at once and Hagan leapt on them in the hall. 
Nor quarter gave to any, but to that single man. 
The blood beneath their broadswords down through the hdmets 



"What a fearful clatter of daahmg blades there rang ! 
From shields beneath the buffets how the plates they sprang, 
And precious stones unniunber'd rain'd down into the gore I 
Th^ foi^ht so fell and forious aa man -will never more. 



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THIBTT-SITAHTH ASTENTUBE. 



The lord of Bedieki^n vent Blaehing Here and theie, 

Ab <me who well in battle knew how himself to bear. 

Well pror'd the noble Budeger in that day's bloody figtt, 

That never handled weqion a mare redoubted knight. 
2291. 

Oa the other aide the alanghtor Ghmther and Gemot led ; 

They emote in that grim conflict &11 many a hero dead ; 

Giselher and Dankwart, little of ought reck'd they ; 

Full many a proweot champon they brought to hia last day, 
2292. 

Well pror'd the fiery margrave his strength and courage too. 

His we^n and hie hameas ; — ah 1 what a host he dew ! 

That aaw a bold Biu^;imdian ; his passion mounted high. 

Alas for noble Budeger I e'en then his death drew nigh. 

2298. 
Loud o'er the din of batUe stout Gemot atouted then, 
" How now, rifi^t noble Budeger P not one of all my men 
Thou'lt leave me here nnwounded ; in sooth it grieves me sore 
To see my fiiends ihus daughter'd ; bear it can I no mine. 

2294. 
Kow moat thy pit too surely the giv^ harm to-day, 
Since of my fid^ids so many thy strength has aw^t away. 
So turn about, and &ce me, thou bold and bigh-bom man ! 
Thy goodly gift to merit, 111 do the best I can," 

2296. 
Ere through the press the margrave could come Sir G«mot ni^ 
Full many a glittering maikoat was stain'd a Uoody die. 
Then those feme-greedy champions each fierce on tfa' othw len^ 
And deadly wounds at distance with wary ward libey k^. 



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HOW IfASOBAVB BUDKaBB WAS SLAIN. 391 

2296. 
So sharp were both their broadswordfl, reaxBtlesB was their dintj 
Sudden the good Sir Budeger through th' helmet hard aa flint 
So dtruck the noble Gkmot, that forth the blood it broke ; 
With death the Bt«m Burgundian repaid the deadly etroke. 

2297. 
He heaVd the gift of Bud«ger with both his hands on high. 
And, to the death though wounded, a stroke at him let fly 
Bight through bothshieldaodnwrion; deep was thegashandwide. 
At once the lord of Chitelind beneath the ewordcut died. 

2298. 
In Booth a gift; ao goodly was worse requited ne'er. 
Down dead dropp'd both together, Gemot and Bndeger, 
Each slain by th' other's manhood, then pror'd, aloa! too well. 
Thereat first Sir Hagan furious waz'd and fell. 

2299. 
Then cried the knight of Trony, " sure we with iU are cross'd ; 
Their country and their people in both these chiefs hare lost 
More than they'U e'er recover ; — ^woe worth this &tal day ! 
We have here the margrave's meiny, and they for all shall pay." 

2300. 
AU struck at one another, none would a Ibeman spare. 
FuU many a one, unwoonded, down was smitten there, 
Who else might have scap'd hamdess, but now, though whole and 

sound, 
In the thick press was trampled, or in the blood was diown'd. 

2801. 
« Alas ! my luckless brother who here in death lies low 1 
How every hour Fm living brings some &esh tale of woe I 
And ever must I sorrow for the good margrave too. 
On both sides dire destructioa and mortal ills we rue." 



892 THIBTT-SBVBKTH ADVESTDES. 

2302. 
Soon as the yontUbl Giselher beheld hia brother dead, 
Who ^et within were Imgering by eruddea doom were sped. 
Death, hia pale meiny choosing, dealt each his dieaiy dole. 
Of those of Beehekren 'aeaped not one living floul. 

2303. 
King Ghmtfaer uid young Giselher, and feariess Hagan too, 
Dankwart as well as Folker, the noble knights and true, 
Went where they found t(^:ether out^Btretch'd the valiant twain. 
There wept th' aesembled warriors in anguiBh o'er the elain. 

23(». 
"Dentil fearfully despoils as," said youthful Oiaelher, 
" But now give over wailing, and haste to th' open air 
To cool our heated hauberks, &int as we are with strife. 
God, methinks, no longer wiU here Tonchsafe us life." 

2305. 
This sitting, that redining, was se^i full many a knight ; 
They took repose in quiet ; around (a fearful sight !) 
Lay Budeger's dead comrades ; all waa hush'd and still ; 
Prom that long dreary sileaice king Btzel augnr'd ill. 

2306. 
" Alaaforthishalf Meudshipl" thus Kiiemhild frowning Bpake> 
" If it were true and stediaat, Sir Budeger would take 
Tengeance wide and swe^ing on yonder murderous band ; 
I^ow back he'll bring them safely to their Burgundian land. 

2307. 
What boot our gifta, king Btzel ? waa it, my lord, for this 
We gave him all he ask'd us P the chi^ haa done omisa. 
He, who ahould have reveng'd aa> will now a treaty make." 
Thereto in answer Folker, the gatlont minstrel, spake. 



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HOW MABaBATE BDDE&EB WAS 9LAIK. 893 

2308. 

" Not BO the trath ia, lady ! the more the pity too ! 

If one the he might venture to give a dame like yoa, 

Moat feuUy 'gainst the margrave you've hed, right noble queen! 

Sore trick'd in that same treaty he and hia men have been. 
2309. 

With Buoh good will the margrave his king's commands obey'd. 

That he and all hia meiny dead on this floor are laid. 

Now look about you, KjiemhJld ! for servants seek anew ; 

"Well were you aerv'd by Sudeger ; he to the death was true. 
2310. 

Th^ feet, if still you're doubting, before your eyes we'll bring." 
'T was done e'en of set purpose her heart the more to wring. 
They brought the mangled margrave, where Etzel saw him well. 
Th' aM^nbledknights of Hungary such utter anguish ne'er befell. 

2311. 
When thus held high before them they saw the maigrave dead, 
Sure by the choicest writer could ne'er be penn'd nor said 
The woeful burst of wailing from woman and eke from man, 
That from the heart's deep sorrow to strike all eara began. 

2312. 
Above his weeping people king Etzel sorrow'd sore ; 
His deep-voic'd wiul resounded loud as the lion's roar 
In the night-shaded desert ; the like did Eriemhild too ; 
They moum'd in heart fixr Badger, the valiant and the true. 



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THIETT-EIGHTH ABVENTtJEE. 

BOW BIB SISTBIOh'S mil WIS! ilOi BLiXS. 

2818. 
Thk cry of lamentation now spread bo far around 
That tower and hall and palace rang with the rueful aouud. 
A certain Bemer beard it, the noble Dietrich's man. 
To tell the bloody tidings, how'swift away be ran! 

2814. 
Then tbuB the prince bespake he, " Sir Dietrich, bear my tale ; 
Surely beard I never sucb wild and woeful wail, 
Ab in my ears is ringing, through all the life I've paat. 
The hing himself I donbt not, baa join'd the feast at last. 

2316. 
"Why elae should such loud soirowthrougb all the people spread ? 
The king or lady Eriembild, or both of them are dead, 
By those redoubted atrangers laid low tbrongb fell des^te ; 
So weeping and so wailing is many a courtly knight." 

2316. 
Then ontspake the Bemer, " my merrymffli every one, 
Now be not over-baaty ; what has e'en now be^i done 
Bythose home-distant- champions, throngh hard constraint befell. 
I pro&r'd them my service, now let it boot them welL" 

2817. 
Quici then spake Sir Wdfbart, " straight VU thither run, 
And inquire the tidings, what the guests bare done. 
Then, my good lord, will tell you, when I there have been 
And of the truth possess'd me, what all this wail may mean." 



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a MEN 1TXB£ ALL BLAIN. 3ii5 

2818. 
Thereto replied Sir Dietrich, " when the heart ia gall. 
Should reckless, rough inquirieB just then perchance be&U, 
"Wrath's yet glowing embers fiame up with ease anew. 
I would not hare the question, good Wolfhart, ask'd by you." 

2319. 
Then tum'd he to Sir Helfiich, and bad him speed hia best, 
And either from Hungarian or from etranger guest 
Learn what had really h^pen'd, that so their grief had Btirr'd. 
Ke'er had in any counb^ so wild a wail been heard. 

2320. 
The messenger 'gan question, " why what has here been done ?' 
" Oh ! we are lost for ever !" Btraight replied a Hun. 
" All joy 'a ibr ever Tanish'd, that cheer'd Ving Etzel'a reign. 
Here lies the noble Budeger, by yon Burgundians slain, 

2321. 
Of those who enter'd with him letum'd no living souL" 
At the words stood Helfrich Btnick dumb with m<nial dole. 
Tale of such deep hcoror nerer met his ear. 
The messenger to Dietrich went back with maoy a tear. 

2822. 
" What are the news you bring ub P' cried Dietrich at the sight, 
" Why do yon weep so bittwly, Sir Hel&ich, noble knight ?" 
■■AlasI" ezdaim'd the champion, "well may I weep and plain; 
The h ffiidff of yon Surgundians good Budeger have elain." 

2823. 
" Now God forbid 1" cried Dietrich, " that could I ne'er have 

ween'd; 
Sure 't were a fearful vei^eance, and sport for the foul fiend. 
How at their hands had Budeger deserr'd so sad an end ? 
Full well I know, those strangers had ne'er so firm a &iend." 



806 THIBTT-BIOHTH ACTXNTUBB. 

2324. 

Then answer made Sir Wolfhart, " if they this deed have done, 
Their lives shall pay the forfeit ; die shall tfaej every one. 
'T would be to our dishonour, should W8 such outrage bew. 
Oft we have had good service horn noble Hudeger." 

2825. 
The lord of th' Amelungers yet more to know was bent. 
Down sat he at a window aniiouB and ill content ; 
Then Hildebrand atr^ht bad he haste to the Btrangera bold, 
And what had really h^tpen'd &om their own lips be tdd. 

2326. 
A w^-approved warrior was master HQdebrand, 
Yet took he, on his message, nor shield nor sword in hand, 
For all in peaceM &shion to seek the guests he meant. 
Hia sister's son beheld it with angiy discontent. 

2827. 
Tbea sternly spake grim Wolfhart, " if thus imann'd you go, 
ITought but reproach and insult can hap from such a foe. 
With outrage and dishonour needs must you hither bat^ ; 
But if you're seen in harness, you'll find tbe foremost slack." 

2828. 
Bo th' old and wise took counsel of the foolish and the young. 
Ere he could don his armour, their's on in haste had flung 
All the knights of Dietrich ; each shook his naked blade. 
Sore it ii^'d the warrior ; fiill iain had he reuounc'd such aid. 

2829. 
Whither wouldthey,inquii'd he — "thither,goodknight,withyon; 
What if o'erweening Hagao, to his ill habit true, 
So much the worse upon you his spite and scorn should vent 7" 
When this was told the champion, he could not but consent. 



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HOW SIB DISTBICH'S VBS WEBE ALL BLAIIT. 



Soon as the taliant Folker saw eheath'd in armour bright 
The flower of Bern advancing, Sir Dietrich's men of might, 
Bucklers all uplifting, girded all with sworda, 
Beady notice gare he to his Burgundian l<n^. 

2331. 
Thus spake the fearless minstrel, "on this, toy lords, advise ; 
There see I Dietrich's Bemers come on in hostile guise, 
All helmeted and hamess'd; — they'll fight us, well I know. 
With OS forlorn and fiiendlesa ill now, I ween, 't will go." 

2832. 
Scarce had he done speaking, when Hildebrand came on. 
Before hia feet the warrior set down his shield anon. 
And thuB began his question to put to Gunther's crew ; 
"Aha ! ye valiant heroes, what has Budeger done to you P 

2333. 
I come &om my lord Dietrich, from yon the truth to gain, 
If any here among you with bloody hand has slain 
The good and noble margrave, as some to us declare. 
Such weight of mortal sorrow were more than we could bear," 

2334. 
" The woeful news," stud Hagan, " cannot be denied ; 
Would for the sake of Budeger your meraenger had lied, 
And yet the chief were living ! 't is all too true a tale ; 
For the good knight must ever both mac and woman wail." 

2335. 
Soon as the knights of Dietrich heard he indeed vras dead. 
As love and truth impell'd them, they wail'd for drearihead. 
Bitter tears forth gushing beari and chin ran o'er ; 

V Sodeger in their inmost hearts they }>are. 



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398 THIBTT-XiaHTH ADTEITTUB8. 

2336. 
A duke of Bern, Sir Siegetal), BigTiing then began, 
" So comes to end tlie kindneea, wherewith thia blameleBH man, 
After oup days of aorrow, reliev'd our woe and pain. 
^Bere the poor exile's comfort lies by you beroee bMq." 

2337. 
Ifext him, the Amelunger, the good Sir Wolftrine, H&id, 
"HI saw to-day my father before me lying dead. 
More I could not aorrow e'en for auch a life. 
Alas ! who now can comfort the gentle margrave's wife P' 

2338. 
Then spake in atorm of paaaion "Wolfhart the moody knight, 
" Who now will hameaa'd warrioTB lead to bo many a fight, 
As oft has done the margrave, and to our fbemen'a coat p 
Alaa ! right noble Budeger, that thee we thus have loat I" 

2339. 
Sir Wolfbrand and Sir HelMch and eke Sir Helmnot shed 
True tears, with all their comrades, for him who there lay dead. 
Old Hjldebrand through sobbing could not inquire the rest ; 
Said he, " go to, ye warriors, perform my lord's request. 

2340. 
Give ns the corpse of Budeger from out yon reeking haQ ; 
So pale and dead lies with Mm the comfort of us all ; 
And let ua now requite him for all he e'er has done 
To ua of his great kindness, and besides, to many a one. 

2341. 
We onraelvea are exiles like blameless Budeger. 
Wherefore would you delay us p him hence then let as bear. 
And pay him ev^ honour now that he dead ia laid. 
Such unto the living we gladlier would have paid." 



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HOW 8IK DIBTBICB'b HXTT WXBB A^LL SLA.Ilf. 



ThOTefco replied king Ghmther, " Berrioe so good ia none, 
Ab after death. Sir Hildebrand, to &iend hj fineud is done. 
That, whosoe'er performs it, firm steadfast &ith I call. 
You pay him 88 is fitting, for well he serT'd you aU." 

2343. 
"Howlongmurt webewMting?" criedWolfhart proud and high; 
" Since our choicest comfort you have done to die, 
And we uo more can have him amongst ub safe and sound. 
Let UB taike him fbrthwith hence to the burial ground." 

2314. 
" None here will fetch him to you," tie minatrel anawer gave ; 
" Enter the hall and take him, where lifelesa lies the brave. 
Deep gasVd with gaping death-wounds, as in the blood he fell. 
'T is aU you can do for him, and thus you'll serve him well." 

2346. 
"Sir gleeman," said fierce Wolfhart, "you've done us grievous ill. 
God knows, that you had better not move us further still. 
But for my lord's injunctions, you'd be in evil plight ; 
Kow we must pass it over ; forhidd'u are we to fight." 

2346. 
Then spake the fiery minstrel, " his courage is but small, 
Who, soon as one forbids him, would fjoin pass over all. 
Such can I never reckon the mood of a true knight." 
Hifl comrade's words Sir Hagan approv'd aa just and tight. 

2347. 
" Persist not to provoke me," said 'Wolfhait, " or full soon 
Tour strings, without your leave too, I'll put so out of tune, 
You'll have enough to talk of on your journey hence. 
No longer I with honour will bear your insolence." 



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400 THIBTT-XIOBTH iJ>TE»TlrBB. - 

2848. 
straight replied the minatrel, " Sir knight, howe'er jou may 
Put my Btrings out of ordOT and Bpcril my riol'B play, 
Thia hand shall fiiet dim sadly your helmet's brilliancy. 
However chance may bring me back to fiur Burgundy." 

2349. 
With that the furious Wolfhart had leapt upon him fain. 
But Hildebrand, his uncle, still held him back amun. 
" Thy Billy rage would drive thee, I ween, to draw the aword. 
And BO thou 'dst lose for ever the favour of my lord." 

2S60. 
" Let loose the lion, master, that storms bo fierce and proud. 
If I can only reach him," the minstrel shouted loud, 
" Though all the world together his prowess may have slain, 
I'll strike him such a swordstroke, he'll ne'er reply again." 

2851. 
By this the Bemer's fury was kindled to the height. 
His shield at once before him held Wolfhart the swift knight. 
Forward, like a wild lion, he darted to th' attack. 
A crowd of nimble foUowera clufiter'd at his back. 

2352. 
But Bwift as was the warrior, and swift as was his band, 
First at the foot of the staircaae was aged Hildebrand. 
None would he have before him where'er a field was fought. 
Soon among the strangers found they what they sought. 

2353. 
Str^ht upon Sir Hagan le^ master Hildebrand ; 
The sword you might hear clatter in either chunpion's hand. 
Well might you note their fury by many a sturdy stroke. 
Prom their clashing broadswords a fire-red bUst there broke. 



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HOT SIK SIETBTCH S MBK WKBK BLAIN. 401 

2354. 

Soon were they ew&pt asunder by th' heady stream of fight ; 
*T was done by the fierce Bemers hurtling in their might. 
So firom grim Sir Hagan tum'd off that aged man, 
Wolfhart meanwhile in fiiry at valiant Folker ran. 

2355. 
On the good helm the minstrel he smote with fell intent, 
So that the edge, descending, e'en to the beaver went. 
That stroke the forcefiil gleeman repaid with such a blow, 
As sent the sturdy "Wolfhart tottering to Mid fro. 

2356. 
They slash'd, that from the hauberks sparks were seen to start, 
lEither bore the other deadly hate at heart. 
A Bemer then. Sir WolMne, parted that stormy fight. 
"Who on such deed coidd venture, was siire a prowest knight. 

2357. 
The noble king, Sir Gimther, with frank and willing hand 
Met the renowned champions of th' Amelungers' land. 
Then too the good Sir Qiaelher himself so knightly bore, 
Tbat he made the polish'd morions red and wet with gore. 

2358. 
Dankwart, Hagan's brother, was a t^iampion grim. 
"Wliftte'er on Etzel's meiny had late been wrought by him, 
A puff was to the tempest that now to rise began ; 
So furiously did battle the son of Aldrian. 

2359. 
Bitschart as well as Cterbari^, Helfrich and Wicharii too 
Spared thomselves but seldom with bloody work to do ; 
This in the fierce hurly to Gunther's men they show'd. 
Into the strife Sir Wolfbrand like a noble wurior strode. 
2 9 

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402 THIRTT-EISHTH ASTZBTUBB. 

2360. 

Then, aa though he were &antic, fought aged Hildebnmd. 
Many a good knight, o'ermaster'd hy Wolfhart'a Btalwart band. 
Into the bloQd, death-stricken, beneath hia hroadBword fell. 
Thus the bold knights of Dietrich reveng'd the murgraTO well. 

2361. 
Then, as hie eoivage mor'd Mm, the good Sir Siegstab stpove ; 
Ah ! how the glittering morions of his atem foee he clove 
In that tempeatuouB conflict, Sir Dietrich's sister's son! 
Amidst the storm of battle ne'er had he better done. 



The vahant minstrel Eolker, aoon as he espied 
A. bloody brook forth gushing as Siegstab fiercely plied 
His sword upon the hauberks, in a storm of rage was tost ; 
Furious he leapt upon him ; at once Sir Siegatab loat 

2S63. 
Hia life by that atem minstrel, who, to the warrior's ill. 
Proof gave him so resistless of hia surpassing skill, 
That at a stroke before him down fell dead the knight. 
Him straight reveng'd SirHildebrand,aawellbeeeem'dhis might. 

2364. 
" Ah my dear lord !" in anguish cried master Hildebrand, 
" Dost thou then here lie lifeless by Folker's bloody hand ? 
But hence, be sure, shall never this minstrel acathless go." 
How e'er could noble Hildebrand rush fiercer on a foe ? 

2365. 
At once bo amote he Folker with weapon ahaip and true. 
That to the walls on all sides a shower of shivers fiew 
From helm and eke &om buckler like chaff before the blast. 
Thereby the sturdy Folker oame to his end at last. 



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HOW SIK DIETRICH a MEN WERE SLAIN. 403 

2366. 
At that, the men of Dietrich niah'd on from every Bide. 
They slash' d, that linke of hauberk went whirling far and wide, 
And the snapp'd aword-pointe Mcker'd with momentary gleam ; 
They drew fi-om out the morions the smoking bloody stream, 

2367. 
Soon Hagan spied Sir Folker dead on the reeking floor ; 
Ne'er had he felt such anguish throi^hout the feast before 
For kinsman lost or liegeman, as then his bosom shook. 
Alas I for hie elaia comrade what dire revenge he took ! 

2368. 
"Ne'er from me shall scathless go aged Boldebraud. 
My helpmate lies before me, slain by the hero's hand. 
Never had I comrade so valiant and so true." 
He nds'd his shield, and forward dashing and hewing flew. 

2369. 
Just then the stalwart Hel&ich slew Dankwart the good knight ; 
Gunther as well as Giselher, woe were they at the sight, 
When down he fell, and, writhing, out panted his last breath. 
He with his sword beforehand had well reveng'd his death. 

2370. 
What crowds soe'er had thither muster'd &om many a land 
Beneath right puissant princes agtunst their little band, 
Were 't not that Christian people conspir'd to work their iall, 
Their prowess well had kept them against the heathens alL 

2371. 
Meanwhile redoubted Wolfhart rush'd fiercely to and fro, 
King Gimther's men down hewing with oft repeated blow. 
Thrice through that place of slaughter he cut hia bloody way. 
Befi:>re, behind, around him the dead and dying lay. 
2 s 2 

,::,:■ :.:,U,;GOOg\C 



404 TEIBTT-EIflHTH ADTSITTCBS. 

2372. 

With that, the young Sir QiBelher to the stem wflrnor cried, 
" Woe'a me that I should ever bo fierce a foe abide t 
Noble knight and fearlesB, turn thee now to me. 
I'll help to end this matter ; it must no longer be.'* 

2373. 
Volfhart tum'd on Qis^er aoon as thus defied ; 
Each in that grim battle wounds cut g^ing wide. 
Upon the Mng fierce rushing so forcefully he sped. 
The blood beneath his trampling flew high above his head. 

2374. 
The bold son of fur Uta with many a rapid blow 
Beceiv'd the tiirious onset of hia redoubted foe ; 
Huge ae was Wolfhart's puissance, boot it none could bring. 

Ne'er was eo brave a battle fought by so young a ting. 
2375. 

At last through the good hauberk he smote Sir Dietrich's man. 

That the blood, out-apurting, down in a torrent ran. 

8o to the death he wounded that high o'erweening one. 

'T was sure a peeriess champion who such a deed had done. 
2376. 

Soon ae fearless Wolfhart felt the deadly pain, 

Down he dropp'd his buckler ; with fierce hand amain 

Hia huge aharp-cutting broadsword higher he heav'd in air ; 

Through helm at once and hauberk then amote he Qiselher. 
2377. 

So they one another both of their lives bereft. 

Now of all Dietrich's liegemen not a soul was left. 

Uildebrand the aged dead saw "Wolfhut fall ; 

Among his long life's sorrows that was the worst of all. 



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HOW BIB DISTBICH'S H£H V£B]1 BLAIK. 105 

2378. 
There in that lull of slaughter dead \a.j king Ghinther'B trmn, 
Dead too the men of Dietrich. Sir Hildebrand amain 
San where redoubted Wolfhmrt fall'n in the blood he found, 
And cast his arms about him to lift him &om the ground. 

2879. 
He strove his dying nephew forth &om the house to bear, 
But found his weight too mighty; he needs must leave him there. 
Then &om the blood the wounded a clouded glance upcast ; 
He saw, that &in hia unde had help'd him at the last. 

2380. 
Then spake the fainting warrior, " dear unde, kind uid bue, 
No more can it avail me whatever you can do. 
But oh ! beware of Hagaa ; this seems me good to tdL 
Heart had never champion so furious and so felL 

2381. 
And, if my loving kinsmen would sorrow o'er my clay. 
This to the best and nearest, dear uncle, of me say. 
That I need no lamenting, Hat tears were better dried. 
That 't was a king that slew me, and gloriously I died, 

2382. 
Besides, in this wild slaughter I've sold my life ao dear. 
That many a knight's pale lady 't will cost tiill many a tew:. 
If any ask the question, straight let the truth be shown. 
Here lie at leaat a hundred shun by this hand alone." 

2383. 
Just then redoubted Hagan upon the gleemaa thought, 
'Wliomthegood knight Sir Hildebrandso late todeathhad brought. 
Thus hebespake the conqueror, "you for my grief shall pay; 
Of many a valiant champion you've robb'd us hero to-day." 



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406 THIBTT-EIOBTH ADTEKTUBS. 

2384. 
So Btnick he then at Hildebraod, that all at once might hear 
'T was Balmtmg there vaa soimdiug, the sword that he whilere 
Had ta'en firom noble Siegfried when he the hero slew. 
"W^ell was his onset warded by the grejrbeard stout and true. 

2385. 
Sir Dietrich's aged liegeman the fearful stroke repaid 
With one that show'd, that he too wielded a gnding blade ; 
Still fi<om the man of Qunther no drop of blood he drew. 
Sir Hagan with a second cut his good hauberk through. 

2386. 
Soon as aged Hildebrand felt the sharp gash aright, 
He look'd for worse, bj waiting, fix>m Hagan'a stormy might ; 
So o'er his back his buckler straight threw Sir Dietrich's man. 
And swift, though sorely wounded, away firom Hagan ran. 

2387. 
Now not a man was living of that Burgundian train 
Gnnther except and Hagan, these the sole breathing twain. 
Ohl Hildebrand thence hasted, with blood all dabbled o'er. 
And to the noble Dietrich his sorry tidings bore. 

2388. 
Apart he found him sitting, solemn and sad of cheer ; 
What more might more his sorrow the prince had yet to hear. 
Straight Hildebrand beheld he clad in his bloody mail ; 
He ask'd him of his tidings, yet fear'd to hew his tale. 

2389. 
" Now tell me, master Hildebrand, what brings you here so wet 
With life-blood P who has done itP what mischief hare you met? 
I fear, you have been fighting in th' hall with yonder guests ; 
I earnestly fot^)ad it; you should hare kept your lord's behests." 



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HOW SIB SIETBICH'B HEN WEBI SLAIN. 



Straight Iiia lord he answer'd, " 't was Hagau did it all ; 
This wound, that so is bleeding, he gave me in the hall, 
Aa from the knight I tum'd me, and would have left the strife. 
Scarce from that Tery devil have I escaped with life." 

2391. 
Him thus the Semer answer' d, " this mishap's your due ; 
You heard me promise friendship to yonder knightly crew, 
And yet the peace I gave them you have presum'd to break. 
Were it not beneath me, your life for it I'd take." 

2392. 
" Nay, my good lord Dietrich, be not so wroth of mood ; 
To me and nune already has too much loss accrued. 
We wish'd the noble Budeger to t^e from where he died 
We ask'd the men of Ghmtber, and proudly were denied." 

2393. 
"Woe's me for this misfortune ! is Budeger then dead P 
Him must I wail for ever ; now I indeed am sped. 
Woe for the lady Qotelind! my cousin's child is she. 
Woe, too, for the poor orphans that at Bechelaren be !" 

2394. 
The margrave's death impress'd him with pity and ruth so deep, 
He could refrain no longer, but straight began to weep. 
" Alas ! my faithfiil comrade ! such loss I needs must rue. 
Ne'er can I cease bewailing king Etzel's liegeman true. 

2395. 
Come now, master HUdebrand, the truth discover plain, 
Tell me, who's the champion, who has the margrave slain." 
Said he, "'twas noble Glemot whose strength the margrave sped; 
He by the hand of Budeger in turn was stricken dead." 



..MOy 000*^10 



108 THIBTT-EIQHTH ADTBHTCBB. 

2396. 
Thea thus replied Sb Diehicli, " tluther will I anon ; 
So go and tell my warriors their armour straight to don, 
And bid my glittering hauberh be brought me instantly ; 
I myself will question yon knights of Burgundy." 

2397. 
Then spake master Hildebrand, "whom would you have me call? 
Of those who yet are living you see before you all ; 
I'm now your only soldier, the others they are dead." 
Sore ahudder'd then Sir Dietrich for dole and dresrihead. 

2398. 
In all the world such ruin did ne'er the knight be&ll. 
Said he, " if they have slaughtered my liegemen one and all. 
Then I'm of Gkid forgotten. Poor Dietrich ! lost am I, 
Who was a king but lately so haughty and so high." 

2399. 
Then further spake the champion, "but how could this have past P 
How could such puissant warriors have perish'd to the last 
By battle-wearied foemeu, laindng uid need-beset ? 
Sure, but through my ill-fortune, they had been living yet. 

2400. 
Since my hard &te condenms me to suffer ev^ ill. 
Tell me, of those grim strangers if one be living still." 
Thenanswer'dmasterHildebraud,"6odknowB, there lives notone, 
Save Hagan and king Qunther ; the rest their course have run." 

2401. 
" Ah ! woe is me, dear Wolfhart ; since thou &om me art torn, 
"Well may it repent me that ever I was bom. 
;SiegBtab, WoUWine, and Wolfbrand, my true and trusty band 1 
Who back can ever help me to th' Amelungeis' land ? 



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HOW erNTEEB AND HAOAM AUD EKIEHHILS WXBE BLAIK. 409 

2402. 
The dangeisdaiing Hel&icli, hie doom has he too met t 
Gerbart and valiant Wichart, how can I these forget ? 
My friends are dead together; who ao bereft aa I ? 
Ah ! woe ia me, that wretchea of grief can never die." 



THISTT-NINTH ADVENTTJEE. 

HOW SITNTHIiB AHI HASAN AND KBIBMHILD WEBB BLAIN. 
2403. 

Thbut took the good Sb Dietrich himself his maO in hand ; 
Hia ready aid to arm him gave aged Hildebraod. 
Such piteous moan then made he the while, that mighty man, 
That with hia voice of thunder the house to ring began. 

2404. 
Tet soon did he recover his high heroic mood. 
In wrath he donn'd his hameflB, and ready now he atood. 
A shidd of prov'd allowance be grasp'd in hie strong hand. 
And thence in haste forth sallied with master Hildebrand. 

2405. 
Then apake the knight of Trony, " I yonder see come on 
With sturdy Btrides Sir Dietrich ; he'll fight with us anon 
To venge his alaughter'd kinsmen whom we have done to die. 
Vo-day shall all bear witness, who best his sword can ply, 

2406. 
Howe'er himeelf may value the hapghty lord of Bern, 
Though ne'er so Btout of body, of mood though ne'er ao stern, 
If us for our late doings he now attempt to quit, 
He'll find in me," said Hogan, "an equal opposite." 



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410 THIETI-NINXH ADTBMIDKB, 

2407. 

Dietrich ae well as Hildebmnd the words of Hagsn caught ; 

He came, and dose together the twain, whom there he sought, 

Outside the house and leaning against the w^ he found. 

Sir Dietrich straight his buckler set down upon the ground. 
2408. 

"With anguish deep empassion'd the warrior thus began, 

" Why have you thua entreated a wandering banish'd man ? 

What have I done, king Gunther.that you should serve me so P 

Vm. reft of all my comfort, aU, at a single blow. 
2409. 

It aeem'd you all too little, that to our loss and pain 

By your hands our comrade, good Eudeger, was slain ; 

And now you have bereft me my waniorB evwy one. 

I, sure, to you, ye heroes, such wrong would ne'er have done. 
2410. 

Think of yourselTes, your sorrow, your long disastrous toil. 
The death of your brave comrades in this abhorred broil, 
If to the dust with anguish it bows your lofty cheer. 
Ah I how my heart is bleeding for the death of Eudeger ! 

2411. 
In all the worid before ua such horror ne'er befell. 
On me you've brought destruction and on yourBelves as welL 
AU joys I bad whatever, by you they all lie aUin ; 
Ne'er fbr his alaught^'d kinsmen can Dietrich cease to plain," 

2412. 
"Nay," replied Sir Hagau, " we're not so mnch to Uame ; 
To this house in bamess your eager warriors came. 
In one broad band advancing, embattled fleroe and bold. 
The truth, metjunks, Sir Dietridi, you've not been foirly told." 



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HOW OITNTHEB AND HABAN AND KBIEMHILD WEBE SLAIN. 411 
2413. 

" How CMi I doubt the story P I heard from iffildebrand. 
That, when mj tnuty comrades of th' Ameliingers' land 
^^ggfd that the corpse of Eudeger jou'd give them &om the hall, 
They met with proud denial and manoerleHa scofis withal." 

2414. 
The lord of Bhine then answer'd, " they sought to carry out 
The corpse of noble Budeger ; I, not from wish to flout 
Them, but in scom of Etzel, what they deair'd, denied j 
Then in a moment Wolfhut began to chafe and chide." 

2416. 
Thereto replied the Bemer, ," well then ! so must it be. 
Now by thy gentle breeding, king Gunther, list to me. 
For all the harm thou'st done me such satisfaction make 
A3 thou may'st give with honour, and I with honour take. 

2416. 
Yield thee to me a captive, thou and thy valiant mm. 
And sorely I'll defend thee with aU the strength I can 
Prom whataoe'er against thee the vengeful Huns may do, 
And never shalt thou find me but faithfiil, kind, and true." 

2417. 
" Now God in heaven forbid it !" redoubted Hagan cried ; 
" Never to thee shall yield them two knights of mettle tried, 
Who yet in their good hamess unfetter'd stand and free. 
Beady to bid defiance to tlieir foes, whoe'er they be." 

2418. 
" You ought not to deny me," Sir Dietrich answer made, 
" King Gunther and Sir Hagfui ; on my heart and soul you've laid 
Such ovenriielming sorrow as you can ne'er requite. 
And, if amends yon make me, you yield me but my right. 



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412 THIBTI-NniTH AOTKKTUBE. 

2419. 
M7 fiuth, bendes, I'll give 7011, and wj assnring haad. 
That back I will ride with you to your Bnrgandiau land. 
And bring you thither iafely, or die with you along. 
And for your sakes for erer forget my grierous wrong," 

2420. 
" Demand of ub no further," retum'd Sir Hagan bold ; 
" El would it become us, if it should e'er be told, 
That two knightB of such worship yielded at once to tbee ; 
For at thy aide, save Hildebrand, there's not a soul to see." 

2421. 
Then spake master Hildebrand, " Qod, Sir Hagan, kno^ 
My lord's yonr true wellwisher ; he treats you not as foes. 
E'en now the hour is coming, his terms you'll ^^adly take. 
Th* amends, that be proposes, you'd better frankly make." 

2422. 
" So would I do lar sooner," Sir Hagan made reply, 
« Than ever from a palace so like a coward fly. 
As yon did, master Hildebrand, but lately here in place. 
I thought, i'^th, you better an opposite could face." 

2423. 
To him made answer Hildebrand, " why twit you me with that? 
Who waa't that by the Waakatone upon a buckler sat, 
"Wbile of his kin so many the Spaniard Walter slew ? 
Look to yonr own shortcomings ; you'll have enough to do." 

2424. 
Then spake the good Sir Dietrich, " ill fits it warriors bold 
Like two testy beldams to squabble and to scold. 
I chaige you, master Hildebrand, urge this discourse no more. 
I'm now s londy wanderer ; my sorrow whelms me o'er. 



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HOW OITNTHXB AHD HASAN AHD EBIEHHILS V£BE BLAIK. 118 



Now let me know, Sir Hagan," lie thnB pursued Iub epeecli, 
" What yon two active cliampiona were Baying each to each, 
"When thua equipp'd for hattJe you mark'd me drawing nigh. 
Was it not, that youagainst me alone your atrengthwould try p" 

2426. 
" Neither of us denies it," thua Hagan etemly spoke, 
" I'd fiun Btrtught make the trid with many a sturdy stroke, 
TTnleBB this my good weapon, the aword of Kiblung, break. 
I'm wroth that you of both of ua expect a prise to make." 

2427. 
Soon as heard Sir Dietrich what grim Hagan thought, 
Up to him his buckler quick the warrior caught. 
How swift against him Hagan down the Btaarcase dash'd ! 
Loud on the mail of Dietrich the Bword of Niblung clash'd. 

2428. 
Well knew the noble Dietrich how fierce and fell a knight 
Waa standing now againat him ; bo warily the fight 
'Gainst those tempestuous swordstrokes wag'd the good lord of 

Bern. 
The strength and bHU of Hagan he had not now to learn. 

2429. 
He fear'd, too, mighty Balmung as down it swept amain ; 
Yet at times Sir Dietrich with craft would strike again. 
Till that to sink before him he brought his foeman strong ; 
A fearful wound he gave him that was both deep and long. 

2430. 
Sir Dietrich then bethought him, " thou'rt faint and ill bestead ; 
I should win little worship, were I to strike thee dead. 
I'll make a difiereut trial, if thou can'st now be won 
By main force for a pris'ner," With waiy heed 't waa done. 



414 THIETT-NIHTH iDTEKHTEI. 

2431. 

Down he threw his buckler ; wondrouB vaa hia might ; 
He hia aanuB retriatlesa thfew toimd Trony 'a knight. 
So was by hie atronger the maa of strength Buhdued. 
Thereat the noble Gimther remaia'd in moumfiil mood. 

2432. 
His TanqniBh'd foe Sir Dietrich bound in a mighty band, 
And led him thence to Ejiemhild, and gave into her hand 
The best and boldeet champion that broadaword ever bore. 
She after all her anguish felt comfort aU the more. 

2433. 
For joy the queen inclin'd her before the welcome guest ; 
" Sir knight ! in mind and body heaven keep thee ever blest I- 
By thee all my long sorrowa are shut up in delight. 
E?», if death prevent not, thy aerrice I'll requite." 

2434. 
" Fair and noble Kriemhild," thus Sir Dietrich spake, 
" Spare thia captive warrior, who faS. amenda will make 
Tor all hifl past trMisgreeaiona ; him here in bonds you see ; 
Serenge not on the fetter'd th' offences of the free." 

2435. 
"With that she had Sir Hagan to durance led away, 
Where no one could behold him, where under lock he lay. 
Meanwhile the fierce king Gunther shouted bud and strong, 
"Whither is gone the Bemer? he hath done me grievous wrong." 

2436. 
Straight, at the caQ, to meet him Sir Dietrich swiftly went. 
Huge waa the strength of Ounther, and deadly his intent. 
There he no longer dalLed ; fr^>m th' hall he forwud ran ; 
Sword claeh'd with sword together, as man confironted man. 



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HOW QDBTHEB AJ/TD Hi^QAH AlO) KBtSMHILD WERE SLAIH. 415 
2437. 

Howe'er renown'd was IKetrich, and tram'd in combat well. 
Yet G-imther fought againBt him bo fiiriouB and bo fell, 
And bore him hate bo deadly, now MendlesB left and lone. 
It Beem'd past all conceiying, how Dietrich held hia own. 

2438. 
Both were of mighty puiBBance, and neither yielded gronnd ; 
Palace and airy turret nmg with their BtrokeB around. 
As their swift swords descending their temper'd helmets hew'd. 
WeE there the proud king Gunther diaplay'd his manly mood. 

2439. 
Tet him subdued the Bemer, as Hagan erst befell ; 
Seen was the blood of the warrior forth through his mail to welt 
Beneath the fatal weapon that Dietrich bore in fight. 
Tir'd as he was, still Ghmther had kept him like a knight. 

2440. 
So now at length the champion was bound by Dietrich there, 
How ill aoe'er it fitteth a king such bonds to bear. 
Gunther and his fierce liegeman if he had left unbound. 
He weeu'd they'd deal destruction on all, whome'er th^ found. 

2441. 
Then by the hand Sir Dietrich took the champion good. 
And in his bonds thence led him to where fair Kriemhild stood. 
She cried, "thou'rt welcome, Gunther, hero of Burgundy." 
" Wow God requite you, KriemhUd, if you speak lovingly, " 

2442. 
Said he, " I much should thank you, and justly, sister dear, 
If true affection prompted the greeting which I hear ; 
But, knowing your fierce temper, proud queen, too well I see, 
Such greeting ie a mocking of Hagan and of me." 



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410 THIBTt-HnrTH IHTZHTUSJI. 

2443. 
Then said the noble Bemer, " high-deecended dame, 
Ne'erhftvebeenbroaght to bondage knights of each peerless fame, 
Aa those, whom you, fair lady, now from your seir&at take. 
Grant these foriom and friendleas iair treatment for my sake." 

2444. 
She said, she &in wonld do so ; then from the c^itiTe pair 
'With weeping eyes Sir Dietrich retir'd and left them there. 
Straight a bloodj vengeance wreak'd Etzel's furioua wife 
On those redoubted chwnpiocs, and both bereft of life. 

2445. 
In dark and dismal durance them kept apart the queen, 
So that from that hour neither was by the other seen, 
Till that at last to Hagan her brother's head she bore. 
On both she took such vengeance as tongue ne'er told before. 

2448. 
To the cell of Hagan eagerly she went ; 
Thus the knight beepake she, ah ! with what fell intent ! 
" WUt tbon but return me what thou from me hast ta'en, 
Back thou may'st go living to Burgundy again." 

2447. 
Then spake grim-visag'd Hagw, " you throw away your prayer, 
High- descended lady ; I took an oath whilere, 
That, while my lords were living, or of them only one, 
I'd ne'er point out the treasure ; thus 't will be given to none." 

2448. 
"Well knew the subtle Hagan, she ne'er would let him 'aatge. 
Ah ! when did ever &lsehood assume so foul a shape P 
He fear'd, that, soon as ever the queen his life bad ta'en. 
She thrai would send her brother to Bhineland back again. 



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HOW aUNTHER AND HAQAN AUTD SBIEUHILD WEEE BLAIN. 417 



" m make an end, and quickly," Efiemhild fiercely spake. 
Her brotber'a life stnught bad she in his dimgeon take. 
Off bis bead was emitten ; abe bore it by the bair 
To tbe lord of Irony ; such sigbt be well could spare. 

2450. 
Awhile in gloomy sorrow he view'd hia master's bead ; 
Then to remorselesB Kriemhild thus tbe warrior aaid ; 
" E'en to thy wish this bus'ness tbou to an end haat brought, 
To such an end, moreover, as Hagan ever thought. 

2451. 
Now the brave king Quntber of Burgundy is dead ; 
Toung Giselber and eke Gemot alike with him are sped ; 
So now, where lies the treasure, none knows saveGkid and me, 
And told shall it be never, be sure, she-fiend! to thee." 

2452. 
Said she, " ill hast tbou quitted a debt so deadly scor'd ; 
At least in my possession Til keep my Siegfried's sword. 
My lord and lover bore it, when last I saw him go. 
Por him woe wrung my bosom, that pass'd aU other woe." 

2458. 
Forth from the sheatb she drew it ; that could Hot he prevent ; 
At once to slay the champion was Eriembild's stem intent. 
TTigli ^tb both hands she heav'd it, and off bis bead did smite. 
That was seen of king Etzel ; he shudder'd at the sight. 

2454. 
" Ah !" cried the prince impassion' d, " harrow and welaway 
That the hand of a woman the noblest knight should alsy, 
That e'er struck stroke in battle, or ever buckler bore ! 
Albeit I was hrafoeman, needs must I sorrow sore." 
2 E 



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418 THUTT-KIirTH ADTKBTUBS. 

2156. 
Then said the aged Hildebrand, " let not her boaat of gain. 
In that bj her contrivanoe this noble chief was slun. 
Though to sore strait he brought me, let ruin on me light, 
But I will taio full reogeance for Trony'a murdered knight." 

2456. 
HOdebrand the aged fierce on Eriemliild sprung ; 
To ihe deatji be smote her m his sword he swung. 
Sudden and remorseleaa he bia wrath did wreak. 
What could then avail her her fearful thrilling E^iriek ? 

2467. 
There now the dreary COTpses stretch'd aU around were seen ; 
There lay, hewn in pieces, the &iT and noble queen. 
Sir Dietrich and king Etzel, their tears began to start ; 
For kinsmen and for vassals each sorrow'd in his heart. 

246S. 
The mighty and the noble there lay together dead ; 
For this had aU the people dole and drearihead. 
The feast of royal Etzel was thus shut up in woe. 
Pain in the steps of FLeasure treads ever here below. 

2459. 
'T is more thm I can tcU you what afterwards beiell, 
Save that there was weeping for friends belov'd so well ; 
Knights and squires, dames and damsels, were seen lamenting alL 
So here I end my story. This is thb Nibxldhsebs' Fau.. 



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N0TB8. 



AccOBDINa to Proftttor Lachmann, tbia poem hai no title in most of the 
maanscriptB. In the two that have a Buperaviptioii, it ie atyled the Book of 
Eriemhild. Its ardioary nsme. The Hibelungenlied, la deriTed fivm the I aim 
bei^ mauuBoript, which ends with the words, i^JVtAeJioifrelMf, the Ia;of the 
Nibelimga, wliile the better maniucripta for list read nSt, ealami^. The 
word NibeluDg u a patronymio from ncM, mist or darknesa, and meaiu, child 
of miat or darknen. Who these NibelimgB wer^ ii involved in appropriate 
obBonritj. In the flret part of the poem, they are Siegfried's Norwegian 
dependents, formerl; salgects of long Ifibelung ; in the seoond, they are the 
Bui^pindiana, posdbl; as being then the poaaeaBon of the wondroua treasure, 
la F. H. von der Hagen's Remarks on the poem, there Is a long^ ramblinff note 
on this word, a note, however, whiob is worth reading;. The coramentator 
travels from the PFephilim, or gianta of scripture, down to Neville, the great 
Earl of Warwick, and his ooal-hlaek head of hair. I have followed Hr. Bireb 
in using the fbrm Nibelvitger, as more mnvenieut fbr the verse, and more 
suitable to our language, and also to mark the diSerenoe between the name of 
an individual, and that of ■ tribe. For the same reasons I have ventured to 
employ the form Atmltrnger, 

(St. 6.) The &moas city of Worms derived its name, aooording to one 
tradition, from the Undwurm, or dragon alain by Sieg&led under the linden 
tree, according to another, from the multitude of dragons that infested the 
neighbourhood. The Reae^arden of Eriemhild (whiob, though odebtated In 
other poems, is not noticed in this) was in the vioini^. The progress of civi- 
lization, elegance, eleaolineas and olaaaio refinement has converted the Rose- 
garden into a tobacco ground. 

(8l 13.) Lachmann's First Lay begins here, and eoda with 8t. 134. 

(6t. 17.) laebe, here, is not Love but Jay, Pieature. See Lachmann's 
Treatise On the Original form of the Foem, p. 91 . 

(St. 92.) Snertdegnt ore young noble squires destined for kn%hthood. 
The tfumle rieftn- tnMf of St. 34 are also squires, the same as the edeln knehtt 
at the end of the poem. The mere ImeKtt were an inferior class, like oui 
2 e2 



420 iroTBS. 

yeomen. Kine thoosand of tbme last scoompanied OnDther to Etzel's conrt, 
and wen enlertained apart. 
{Bt, 61.) Maie an old form for mate. Bpeaaet has among other pasaagea 

And of fair Britomart ansample take, 

That was as true in love as turtle to her make. 

Faerj Queene, III. iL 2. 

Itll oonunoQ in Qerman romances of a certain period for brides to be oarried 
off by foree, and maidens to be woed by suitore nbo have nerer set eyes on 
them. See Qerviniu's Abridgement of bis History of German poetry. See 
too the Qadrim. 

(St.73,) Lacbmaim obeervea on the third verse. ■'This veiae cannot be 
" ezplsined from our Lays (i. e. from anything in the poem) ; the nelber- 
" landers lost no tViend but Siegfried. Is there an aHunon to other legends, 
" or is the departure adorned wilh the usual colouring ?" It really almost 
seems aa if the writer of this particular stanza bad confounded Nibelungers, 
netherlaoders and Burgundians all togetber. 

(St. 97.) Most of the nmrvela of modem romantic poetry may be traced 
back to much older taJee reported by Greek authorities. The Soythian griffins, 
vho watcbi^l the treasures coveted by their neighbours the Arimaspians, the 
dragon Ladon, vbo guarded the golden apples of the Ueepeiides, tbs more cele- 
brated buUionist, who kept an eye on the golden fleece, arC' the undoubted 
ancestors of tbe more modem specimeos of the serpent tribe, irbo inherited 
the like miserly passion, and allured such champions aa Siegfried and Orlando 
to tread in the steps of Hercules and Jason. Tbe volatile disposition of Way- 
land the Smith reminds us of Dsdalua; his skill in bisarteihibitshim as a rival 
of Vulcan ; Ms grand&ther Wikiug, Uke Ulyssea, " vquoress totsit amore 
Deas." The Aloinos and Armidas of the modem Italians are only heightened 
copies of Calypso and Ciroe ; Segfiied, Orlando and Ferrati, 'with their in- 
Tulnerahle hides and superfluous armour, are each of them a modemiced 
Achilles. This list might be easily lengthened. I am not, however, aware 
that the janoy of giving names to swords can be traoed to the classics. Duiin- 
dana, tbe sword of Orlaado, Fusberla that of Hinaldo, Eicslibur of King 
Arthur, Joyeuse of Charlemagne, and others, may be paralleled by the fol- 
lowing list &om Northern &b1e, Qram and Balmung belonging to Si^^&ied, 
Uimong to Wayland and Wittich, Nogelring to Dietrich, Brinnig to Hildo- 
brand, Sachs to £ck, Blulgang to Heime, Bchrit to Biterolf, Welsong to Sintram 



the Greek and SietUeb, Weake to Iring', tco. This list is anj (Lui^ bat 

(St. 101.) The tamiappe hom an old word tamen to ooneeol, and Ao^w 
a mantU or doak, oIlierwiBe called tubelti^ipe from neM, mist, obscuri^, ■waa a 
long and broad maolle, whieb made the wearer invisible, and gave him the 
Btren^ of tivelve men. Foi want oT a better irord J have translated it 
alond-cloek. 
(St. 144.) Laohmtnm's Second Ia; begins here, and ends vrith St 366. 
(St. 187.) A SkottTwbe knight haved apan the best, 

A waohe I dare veil saye ; 
So was he ware on the noble Percy 
Id the dawojnge of the daje. 

English Battle of Otterbounie. 
(St 210.) In this poem the B&irte is used to eipreea the dominitm of Guntber, 
though, stricll; apeaking, Siegfried was bimKlf fh>m the Rhine, being a native 
of Xaclen. It ia remarkable that at St. SO this last ciroumstanoG is stated, 
and jet atSt. 69 and St. 61, in the converaation between SiegfVied and his 
&ther, both of whom were then at Xanten, the phrue u Bint it used nitb 
reference to Ounther's oountry. 

(St. S12.) " Blew hii" many a slain." This pbrase is borrowed from Samson 
Agonistea. 439. 
(St. 270.) Lachmann's Third Iajt begins bete, and ends with St. 320. 
(St. 269.) Ke she was derke ne browne, bnt bright, 

And clear oa the Uoone light, 
Agaiue whom all the starres semen 
But small candlea, as we demen. 
Cbmcer^ Romannt of the Bose in the desoiiptioi] of Beau^. 
For all afore, that seemed fayre and bright, 
Now base and contemptible did appeore, 
Compar'd to her that shone as Phebes li^t 
Among the lesser starres in evening clear. 

Faery Queene, IT. 8. 14. 
(St a9S.) 8o ChMoei «aya of Hirth in tlie Komaont of the Rose. 
He Memed like a portreiture, 
So noble he was of his stature. 
(St. 267-) In Oielaat verse of this BtanMlachnuum thinks )na^«<IicA«n, not 



422 KOTEB. 

■wuMeBfiAfn, -waa the original vard ; " yre hne," aoys be rather amterely, 
" We eoaugh Bud to apaie ia St. S99 ;" aud eertainlj, if hs be justified In 
rgmting St, 2S8, and oonseqaentlr in puttiDg St. 299 next to St. S97, lliere ia 
nlher a auperabatuUiioe of the tendet paaaiDn with rnvmeduAen, in two 
■nooeiMdveliiiea, audmteiMin a third. Od the other hand it may be said that 
thisTeijaaperabimdaiuwiapioducedhy Ladnnann'a oiro rqeelion of St. 296, 
and that to alter the text of the preceding stanta in conaequenee of that 
ngeotlon, is aonietluiig like vhst laoTeis call taldn; odvauta^ of one's own 
wrong. But howevBT that may be, it cannot be denied, that magetSeieii is 
in St. S97 &r more approi^iBte than miiiaucRAea, and it tnita ray aoDTenience, 
as a tranalatU', infinitdy better. I have therafars gladly adopted it. 

(St 309.) In Erne's etecoal beadroll worthy to be fU'd. 

Faery Qoeenc 

(St.33S.) lAchiiiiuui'BFaurthIa;b^inBhere,andeDdswithSt4e9. The 
poem, which we now posaeaa under the name of the Kiebelungenlied, throws 
into the shade the early biMoi? of Siegfried and Bninhild, and retains only a 
few obscnrs alluaions to the faot that they were old acquaintances. Sue the 
Preface. 

Iitland, the kingdom of Bninliild, whioh I have thus written to disUnguiah 
it from OUT EogUsh word i^aad, is identified by von der Hagen with Iceland ) 
Wnckemagel, in the Glossary to his Alt-dsutchea Lesebuch, prefers (o derive 
it from Ititlaitd {Uid, woman in old Qerman), the land of women or Amaions. 
It la however against thla derivation, that, though Brunhild was a " Harlial 
Uaid" hetself, her kingdom was not a kingdom of Amazons, like that of 
Badigund in the Faei; Queene. Her female attendauta were like other 
women, and her knights and the officers of her court were of the other aez. 

(St, 346.} In this stanza and those that fbllow we may clearly disoem that 
several versions of the same tale have been huddled tt^ther. The same 
thing may be observed in other parts of the poem, but no where so clearly as 
here. For the tanUiappe see the note to St. 101, 

(St 368.) tuuB, Regina, quid optes 

Eiplorare labor, mihi jusea capeseere fas eat 

(St. 374.) Zatamanc, according to von der Hagen, la a city in Asia Minor ; 
Xachmann seems to place It in the land of Romance. 

(St 37G.) The hides here meant, according to von der Hagen, are the hairy 
ones of warm-blooded marine animals rather than the skins of Mies properly 



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NOTES. 423 

(St 381.) IV* atanu (not to mention Boms olhen) mnat bare been intai^ 
polated by a poetical tailor. 

(8t 392.) Acoording to Yon iler Eagea, the best Rheniah -wine ia produced 
about Worms* It ia ealled " Our Lady's tuilk/' and ifl flDporior to lAcryma 
Cbristl. 

(St. 413.) TheBalladof I^rdThomu and Fair Annet has Bomethingiimilar 
of the lHd;'s horse. 

Four and twenty iiIIk bells 
Wer a' tyed till his mane, 
And yae tift of Oie norland irind, 
The; tinkled ane by ue. 

(St 417.) This description of a castle (bum) does not materially differ 
from tliose wMoh occur elaenhere in the poem. The aasUe was not one build- 
ing, however large and oomplez, but inoloded in the ample oircoit of its walla 
several extensive buildings, and aflbrded auffioient aooommodation fi>r a very 
great number of peisoiu. Hie moet oonspiouoos of (he building* within the 
castle seem to have been large detached ereotjons, to which in this poem are 
applied the words, hUt (house), palat (palace), tal (hoU), and ged«m (room). 
In the passage befbre us, palM and lat are dieUnguiahed from one another ; 
the same is the case at St lGG6(pitoBniI««t4, and at Bt 582, where EtuTs 
and Qunthet's dmdlinga are respectively sptdun at On the other hand, the 
hall where the Bo^nndians feast with Btzel, and where Oie repealed confllola 
takeidace,iscalled}>aIa«atSt2I73,«aIatSt2174,Ati«at8t216a,and?a(;em 
at St. 3422, not to meotioo other passBKe* ; and Uie lai^ building: in Etiel's 
castle, where Ounther and his knights sleep, is called ml at stanzas 1863 and 
1892, Ad« at atanias 1891 and 1693, and gadan at St. ie9G. These term* 
therefiire seem aevHj eynonymons, or at least equally t^licable to the large 
detached buildings in question, which rcecoibled our puUio hells, soeh as 
Westminster Hall and Goildliall, and the halls of coQegee and Inns of Court 
Some ot Oie bsUs in this poem seem to have been of tru^ poetical dimensionBi 
Gunther(St 627) raitertsins in hie haU twelve hundred knighta of Si^fiied's, 
beeidM his own Bu^undians. Btael's circle was still more numerous. The 
Bui^undian knightB were more Hiaa a tJuxtsand in number ; Rudegsr'a five 
hundred or more ; Dietrich had many a stately man, no doubt the aiz hundred 
mentioned at St 1993, and ve learn &on stuua 8086 that 7000 Huns were 
miMiwi mil by the Bnrgundians ; all tiiese made up a dinner par^ of about 
9000 guests. The lea ariitooratii) fudlowert itf Gtmther, 9000 in number, 



424 VOTBI. 

■Mm tlao to bttn btea tenaUtig in one immeau nmm, when Ae Hans toiA 
■dTBotage of thsir Dnarmed oondition to nuagnore them. The term, indeed, 
app^oi tothe buildiii^ ii h4t, but this, we have seen, is one of the words used 
to demgnate great potilio halk. The hall, where Qimaier and hia knights lay 
M splendidly (St. 1B86), seeniB to bare been an Eton I«ng Cbanber on a 
gjgantio loale. After allowing for the twebe knifbts with Dankwnrt and 
the yeomen, he TQUBt have bad more than a flkotiaand warriors in hie bain* 
TiettAerj md nolenoa were ao otHnmon in the middle ag», that a great nun 
waa not aafe except with a mnllitade of dep^dentt ebovt him, and Aa 
peculiar oircumEttuioea of Chintbei'e oaae required peculiar precaution. Yet 
even Siegfried took a tlunuand wairiorB of hie own, and a hundred af Sieg- 
mond'e, when the; went together to visit hie brother-in-law. These large 
balla were med for feaating, dancing, conrereatiaD, end Hleejung, but there 
were other smaUer eepaiste biuldiiig* (kemenaten) fbr the reeidmoe of people 
of oomequcnoe, which no doubt contained sereral roome. These also formed 
flie bowers, or private apartments, of bigh-bom ladiee. The kantre (chamber) 
•eenu to have been a room need for all eixt» of purposes, among others [or 
keeping stores and treasure as well as for tiring and sleeping. There seem to 
have been no private chapels within the walls of the castles deacribed in this 
poem, mme, for instance, aaoh ■■ St. Qeocge's Chapel in Windsor Castle, or 
the ch^)els in our Inns of Court and Colleges. Every bod; went for his 
divinity to the minster. Siiemhild, who wee in the habit of going to matina 
before daybreak, took her way to the minster, though it was so far from the 
eaelle at Wonns, that the ladies (St 636} rode on horseback from one to the 
other. Gunthor's castis was oonneoted with the d^ of Worms, but seems to 
have communicated with the suROonding eoonti;, like the dtadela of our 
pnaent foriifled towns. At stanzas 833-834 the ladisa view from the casde 
irindows a tournament held in the oountry oatside the waDs. Etxel's castle, 
as fiir as I remember, is not represented as oonnecled with an; town. 

(8t 433.) All this description of the adventurers bears a rceemblanee to the 
pasBi^ in the Iliad where Helen poinia out the Greek chiefo to Priam ; it 
reminds ns also of the imitation of Homer in the Jerosalem Delivered. 

(St. 436.) Si^flried here seems to nfdlo^ee to Brunhild tat presenting him- 
self before her. 

(St. 444.) Cranpare stanzas 486—680—1156 and the obeervaticns. 

(St. 447.) I cannot underatand bow the skin could be seen nnder a eilken 
guTDaat, wliich Was so strong as never to have been cat by weapon, and which 



KOTES. 425 

was moreovet wam over a breaatplate, I^chmaim has rcMciii to »aj " die 
Brunae ist Tergeaen.' 
(3t. 471.) Bo did Sir Artegal upon hei lay, 
As if ahe had an iron anril been. 
Tbtt flakes of fire, bright as the sunny ray, 
Oat of her atedy arma were fln«ii'p p seen, 
That an on Sre yon would her surely ween. 

Riery Queena, V. 6. 8. 
(St. 471.) For der helt, the hero, Lachmann oonjecturee der Mde, the con- 

(8t. 489.) Aooording to Tanhmnnn the Fourth lay concludes with this 
stanta, (I^ St. 443.) What fbllawe between this stania and St. 636 (L. St. 672) 
he oonsidera to consist of two oontinuationa by different authors. Among 
other matters, they oontAin the two marriaf^ea of Brunhild and Kriemhild, 
eveniB which I oan_scarcelj imi^pne to have been pasaed over without notice, 
though I admit that they are not related in the clearest manner. 

(St. 497. ) Lachmann obeerree that this stanza is inconsistent with St. 486, 
where Siegfried is said to have taken the cloak back to the ship. 

(St 614.) Siegfried, I suppOM, was not recognized from being in complete 
armour, but his shield might have identified him, as in the battle with the 
Sozons. Nothing is said here of what he had done with his tamiappe, 

(St. G19.) The Mlertranc (dear drink) was wine passed through spioes, 
and afterwards strained. 

(St. 641.) Our common participle bcnmd (bound for euoh and such a place) 
seems in this sense to be deriied from the old ^northern verb bourn, to make 
r«ady, and not from bittd. 

And Jedburgh heard the Brent's order, 
That each should bown him fbr the border. 

Lay of the Last UinstreL 

(St. 646.) Aooording to lachmann (L. 8L 496) another oontlnDation begins 
here. He thinks Oiis addition is by another author than the composer of the 
flnt, and that it resembles in several respects Hie Third La; of his edition, 
which uiswers to the flflli AdTenture (" how Sie^^ed first saw Eriemhild'^ 
of other edilionB. 

[St. MS.) Hagan here speaks ironically, but with good nature, as to a 
biend. Ue eilubite the same turn, but with the bitterness that suits the 



426 S0TB8. 

change of ciieunulaiieefl and the pereon irhom he addresMs, in hig dialoeiiet 
with his enemy Eriemhild, when he meela her in HangBrj. 

(St. 572.) The lad7 supptiei the place of the modern pocket handkerchief 
mif tnSiUaii^n ghtn in ths original. The Qernuui girt ia evidently the 
£nglieh gort, a word which puizled no leuaperaonthan Tjrwhitt, and which 
Johnson, who writea it goar, haa confounded with Che gituet. The latter ie the 
piece under the annof adiirt; the gore, aa Tj^rwhittwaa afterwaida acoa- 
raCelj infbrmed by "a learned person," ii a common name for a dip, which 
ie iiuerted to widen a grannent in uiy particular part. It is a wedge-ahaped 
piece, as the German oommentators say of their gire. Shirti at present, how- 
ever it may have been in Cbancer's or in Tfrwhitfa time, are not made with 
gores ; the opening on each side renders gores unneoBMarf ; but in the female 
of the ahht and in the nnockfroek, gores are, I believe, still used. The 
passage in Chaucer illustrateB the passage before uB. Ths poet saya of the 
Carpenter's Wife (Canterbury Tales, 3235)— 

A seint (girdle) she wered, barred all of eilk, 
A banne-oloth (apron) eke white as morwe (morning) milk 
Upon hire lendee (loins) full of many a gore. 

In the last line the eipresaion " fiill of numj a gors" means, prohaUy, iiill 
made, spre«d out by means of manj a gore ; otherwise " iiill of gores" would 
have been sufloient, and the addition of " many" an inslsgant piece of sur- 
plosage. However that may be, it is clsar that the apron stuck out and extended 
round the person of the wearer in coneequenoeof the number of these gores, or 
wedge-sh^>ed pieces, which made the bottom muob wider than the top. An 
apron, thus made up of a multitude of gores, might not unaptly be itself called 
in the plural a woman's gores, and this seems to have been formerly the ease 
in Germany. £riemhild is here said to wipe ber eyes with snow-while gores, 
and, in the Oudrun, the heroine of that name is rated \!J the ^rannioal 
Oerlind for wrapjung- up her hands indolently in her gfuee. It is of oomse 
impoeeihle for a translator to render these two pessagee literally, at least if he 
wishes to be intelHgible. 

(Bt. 693,} The commentators are not partionlarly clear as to irtiat fliese 
garments, called in the original " noble Ferrans robes," really ware. VoB der 
Uogen says there must have been a city of that name in the East, from which 
these robes came, while ZAobmaiin aaye there ia a stuff oomposed of ailk and 



NOTES. 427 

vool, which «tni goes by the name at ferrandins. Thu Dlotion&ry of the 
FreBOb Academy mentions a dlk »tuff Oi formerly going by that name. 

(6t. 636.) Lachmaom'B Fifth Lay begins here, and oonoludes with St. 70C. 

(St. 664.) The oord or girdle, thus wocu by Udiee, Beems to have been 
tolerably strong, not merely from the use to which Brunhild puts here here, 
bat also frmn the manner in which HorimerB ia ^ptied by Sir SatjTtme. 
Faery Queeue, III. T. 36. 

The golden ribband, whioh that tii^in wore 
About her slender waste, he took in hand, 
And with it bownd the beast, that lowd did rwe 
For great deapigbt of that unwonted btuid. 
(St 667.) 'l\iip alwiiVf Uipis 6v yo/iov, dXXii riv' arav 
ifiytr' tivaiaf ie SaXaiiovs; 'Ekivav. 

Eurip. Androm. 103. 

(St. 676.) If this and the faUowing stanza are, as I^chmaim thinks, an 
addition, they no doubt were added to supply a palpable defect in the 
nanatire. If it were not for them, the company would be spoken of asFisiog 
&om table (St, 679) when it is no where mentioned that they bad sat down. 

I must Tenture to remark that Lachmann's note to the next stanza is not 
very satisfHctory. Though the knights and ladies may usually have eaten 
apart, it seems to have been allowable for the mistress of the house at least 
to be present when the knights were feasting (St. 621— Bt. 1726), and 
there is nothing nnnaaonable in supposing that the married uster of 
the host might hare accompanied her buaband. This seems more natural 
than to assume that the queens left their apartmenU and went to the hall 
(probably a detached building) just to shew tbemselves before they retired to 
bed. I moat own I do not see die difficulty about eoming and gciitg noticed 
by Laohmann. Every body, who goes to a place, comes to it when be 
gets there. As the poem stands, every thing is oon^tent. The queens cross 
file palace oourt and go to the hall for the good snbstan^ reason of getting 
flieiT suppers. They come book lo theic private apartments, or bowers, where 
they remain awhile \rith their immediate attendants, and during the short 
interval, that elapses before dismissing the latter and going to bed, Sieg&ied 
dips through his wife's fingers, and goes to Ounther's private apartmentfl. 

I should add that, at St. 17S7, the young margravine uid ber damsels are 
brought back into the eating ball aft«c tbe men have finished their repast. 



jrom. 

w of (be reading; dit ttAanen (ue note to 
St. 1734) and on the conaeqaent ezpiilaitm of St. 1734. If we retBin tb« 
Utter Mwuk, ths young morgniTiiie ia sent for u hove, like Kiiemhild at St. 
6S6. But we can lovoel; appl; to ;rouDg married women and their near 
leDuls oonneiiana, alao married, pasBBges like thcae, that relate to youn^ 
■pinftera. In the paMaget quoted in the note to St. 1737, men and women 
are mentioned aa eating; apart, but it ia stated to be an old ouitom, and is 
noted aa an anciait pecnliarily. 

(Sl 680.) It appean from thia deamptaon that tlie wearei of the oloak 
muattiareliad tlie power of being visible or invialbla ai he chose. He might 
bsTS on the mantle, and yet be viaible. Siegfried does not here leave hie 
wifb in the oidinaiy way, and then put on the oloak. He oeenia to diaappear 
miiaouloualy. Thia diffen from the aocoimt given in etaniaa 444 and 485, 
where SiegMed puts on the claak before he beoomea invidble, and remaina ao 
till he putait off, bat agree* with St. ItbS, where it ia distinctly stated that 
Si^fiied wore the doak at all times. I should honever add that, in the 
original, there ia what appears to my ignomnce a difficulty, though, aa the 
commentaton take no notice of it, I suppcee there is really none. The original 

8i trdte sine bende mit ir vil wizen bant, 
Uns er vor ir ougen, sine weaae wenne, rerawant, 
literally, " She fondled hia handa with her very white hand, till he before 
her ayea, ahe knew not irtien, vanished." As to the interpretera, Bnimfeb 
^n)ply modemiiea the old dialect, rendering wtttnt by itann ; Himrtuty ^/t^ 
Marbaoh are equally literal, except that tbqr put nit, how, where Braonfda 
haa foonn ; Beta, who here aa elsewhere is lesa rigoroody literal than hia 
comradee, merely aaya, " then it happened that faa auddenly vaniahed before 
her sight." I must confee* I oannot undetstaud how Kriemhild oould not 
know tAen a thing happened that passed befbre her eyes, though ahe might 
well be puuted how to aooount for it It is remarkable that the lAMheiK 
manusoript, which ia sud by Tju'Timann an^ other competent Judges to contain 
a revised and remodelled text, omits the OBlat atanaa altogether, and altera 
the atanaa before it, end that after it in snob a way, that the nqiematatal 
seems to disappear, and Siegfried ia merely reiveeented as stealing away from 
the women, and coming eeeretly or mysteriously (nil teugen) to Ounther'a 
chamber. This manuscript however mentiona the (amkappe at St 67S. Did 



,,l:«l by Google 



NOTES. 420 

tlie reviser of thin manuBcript wish it to be inferred, that Sie^tied, aAei 
leaviQg- his vife, went and pat on the lamkappe ? 

(St. 705). In the Volaun^ Saga Bruoliild is a Volkyiie, or Chooeer of the 
Slain, a sort of Xorthem Bellona, endowed with snpematunil Btrengtb. Tbia 
Buperhuman proTew lb connected vitb ber virgin st&te, and bj beooming a 
wife Bbe is reduced to tbe ordinar; weaknew of women. In the Nibelungen- 
lied thia circnmatance comes upon ub t^ BurpriBe, for we are no where told 
that the strength of Brunhild differed Gram that of other women, except in 
degree, and no reason [s g^ren why matrimony Bhoold produce any greater 
change in Brunhild than in tbe rest of her sex. The passage is in tact derived 
from the Scandioavian fbrm of the legend, and seems BC&rcelj in harmony 
with the spirit of tbe Genaan poem. 

(St. 726) Worms beyond the Rhine, Warmez iiber Sin. The writer here 
as elsewhere speaks of Worms with reference to hia own situation to the eaat 
of the Bhine, whereas Xanten, like Worms, is on the west Bide of that river. 

(St. 7S8.) Newsman's bread, botenbrSt, was the term for the present given 



(St. 713-) LaebmanD'e Bixth lay begins here, and ends wit^ St. 8SS. 

(St. 794.) Qary, like a shrewd courtier, avoids praising ibiemliild's good 
looks to a rival beauty. 

(St. 900.) A differenoe of opinion ensts in united Germany as to the inler- 
pretation of this passage, Lachmann, Simrocli, Marbaoh and Beta being on 
one side, and von der Uagen and Braunfels on tbe other. I readily vote with 
the m^ority. Bumolt'a understrappers, as I conceive, are not the pots and 
pans, but the subaltern <!O0ks, the scullions and other dmdges of the royal 
kitchen. 

(St. 803.) I follow Lachmann's conjecture of irf for SdflB in the third lino 
of this stanza, 

(St. eS3.) Chaiuier in like manner says of tbe carpenter's wife, Canterbury 
Tales, T. 3266— 

Full brighter was the shining of hire hewe. 

Than in the tower the noble ytbrged newe. 

For the brilliant addition to tbe simile he is perhaps indebted to Dante's 

Fresco Bmeraldo in I'ora cha si flacca. 
The comparison of tbe brilliant colour of a blooming northern beauty to gold, 
" red gold," as it is constantly called in old German and old English poetry. 



430 iTOTXS. 

forms a curioua contraat with the (Erases of Catullus, " inBurttla pallidior 
atatna," " magia fulgore eip«liuit anri," and that of Slatiiig,'' pallidua fbwor 
redit erutoqne conoolor fturo," nol to mention ilie saving of Diogen^ that gold 
was pale Ihroug-h fear of those who bad a deagn upon it. 

(St 834.) Lachmaim inlerpreta the getinde or ibllonOTs to be Qunthei'a, 
and rpjeota tlie atai^za aa apnrioiu, and msnufaotured for the puipose of intj'c^ 
ducing DankTSTt. vho IB repreaenled aa eeekiiig out new quaitecs without 
neOfMily for people who were already quartered in the ciQ'. But are not 
the fbllowera of Siegfried meant ? 

(St. ess.) A carians instance of anbrardnesB in the service of &ie bi^heet 
tables. 

(St. 833.) The oripnal has in the first verso in ii«n lande, in the country, 
i. «. just outside the city mils, close under the castle, from the windows of 
which the ladies might see the tournament Tbe minster was in a separata 
part of the city, just as in London Bt. Paul's is at a certain distance &oni Oie 
Tower. Here tbe horses are sent fbr, whiob seems to shew that the castle 
and the mlnstfr oould not have been contiguous, yet tbey could not have been 
very &r apart, as Eriemhild was in the haint of going to tbe minster befiire 
daybreak. (8t 1038.) 

(St. B43.) The same simile is applied to Sriemhild herself at St 369. 

(St, 861.) Intbedialognes that follow Oieqaeens are not particularly oom- 
plimentary, bnt they at least use no weapons but their tongues. I do not 
know what authority the writer of Hurraj^s Handbook for Rorlfaem Germany 
has fbr the fbUowing statement. '' Tbe combat between ChriioheldB and 
Brunheldais supposed to have been fought on the south side oftheDom." 

(St 862.) Wind, a mere nothing ; this phrase is not uncommon in the 

The propbeta shall become wind. Jer. v. 13. 

(St. 879.) Brunhild had been asserting' that Sieg&ied was Gimlher's vassal, 
or, in feudal language, his man. Eriemhild sarcasticaUy alludes to this with 
more bitterness than delicacy. 

(St. BSD.) Brunhild seems as much annoyed by this usurpation of ber 
tHokels as by the scandalous interpretation mentioned in the preceding stania. 

(St 889.) I have followed Fro&esor Lachmann's ezplanatian of the first 
line of this stanza. He makes his Seventh Inj open here, and end witb 
St. 943, but whatever we may think of bis general theory of the poem, his 
pre&tory remarks here are well worth an attentive perusal. It is clear that 



NOTES. 431 

■ome ataiuaa, probably a good nuuiy, have lieen loat. A^ tlia work itanda at 
present, even if ire interpret the fint line of this stania to mean tliat manj 
a fBir waman departed, Siegfried is left behind to bear bis brother-in-law 
and hi» &ienilB diecusa the eipedienc; of knocking Ti™ on the head. In the 
part that is lost there inis probably an aecount of the breaking op of the 
assemblage at the ohutofa door, and of the immediate eummoning of a council 
in some more conTsnient place. It was no doubt explained how Siegfried'a 
denial, whioh at flrsc seemed so aatia&ctory, was ^terwards made of no 
account, and possibly a good deal, of which we have now only a fragment in 
stanzas 689-890, passed between Bnmbild and Hagan, ber husband's princi- 
pal adviser. Probably too, as Laobmann has ohserved, the invulnerability of 
Siegfried was oansideTed. 

(St. 9S0.)' Tlie ibuua, wbicb contains this example of andent discipline, is 
rqected by lAObmann on aoconnt of the innere reim, which however, be thinks, 
■uits perfeotl; with the " somewhat overoharg^d cob>uring" which the author 
has adopted. Pictures of domestic happiness in the same style of oolouring 
are, I suppose, rarely to be met with in Germany in the present liberal and 
enlightened age. 

(St. 926.) See note to St. SI. 

(St. 638.) The Week fbrest is the mouulainous range oalledin French the 
Vosgu, whioh, as well as Worms, is to the west of the Rhine ; thia stanza is 
therofbro at variance with St. 103(t, where the huntexs cross the Rhine to 
return to Worms. I^chmana gets over the difficulty b; hia theory of separate 
lays. According to hie arrangement St 93S is in ttie Seventh Ley, and St. 
]034intheEighlh, and these two liiys are the work of different poets. Two 
points are certain ; the Arat, that there were two traditions as to the place of 
Si^irled's death, one fixing it in the WaskenwiJd, the other in the Odenwald ; 
the seoond, that Qunther and Hagan were generally beheved to have attacked 
Waller of Spun in the Waskenwald. Now there appears to me nothing 
improbaUe in supposingi either that a minstrel with bis bead full of Walter's 
history and the oonneotjon of Guntber and Hagan i"th the Waskenweld, 
might have recited WatkemvaieU for Otemetddt, or, on the other hand, that 
one, who was iiumliaT with the tradition that Sieg&Ied was killed in the Oden- 
wald, might have fbmid on den Sin at St. 1030, and altered it to Uber Bin. 
At any rate I oaimot help thinHTig that either of these suppoeitionB is less 
improbable than that a poet should first tell us how Guntber and Hagan plotted 
against Siegfried, how the latter aooepted their treacbei 



bunt, and hov lie veDt to tokeleaTa of hiawife.aod tiwttben tlie proroknig 
npM «hoaId immediatdy close his po«in without inibrming aa wbot paaaed 
betweoi Siegfried and hii wife, whether the hunt took place, or wbetliei the 
plot mcoeeded. 
(St 944.) lAohmann's Eighth laj begins here and enda with St. 1034. 
(St. 969.) The KAdA or ihelk eeema hj the deuription in Braun&li'e 
Oloemy to hare been a bind of tragelaphue, with hair down the breast. 

(St. 966.) Dei ggeidei mtitt^, I preeume, means Sieg&ied himself, who 
at St. 982 is ctH^jegermtitter. 

(St. 970.) Tryst Ye shall be set at each a tryst 

That hart and hind shall oome to your Gat 
Squire of Low Degree. Ellis's SpecdmenB, t. 1, p. 311. 
Tryst ia a post or station in hunting acoording to Cowell as quoted ia 
Tyrwhitt^B Gloasary to Chauoar, but "Walter Scott uses it fiw 8 place of 
appointment generally. 

(St. 981 .) For the sweetness of " Uie panther's breath or nther body" I 
refer the reader to Qifibrd's note in bis edition of Ben Jonson, v. 3, p. 367. 
It is worth wbile bowerer to quote the foUowing posst^ on panthers from 
Plinj'i Natural History, 1. 8, c. 17, asit isnotnotioedby Oiffbrd. "Fenmt 
odore earum mire sollioitari qnadrupedea cunctas, sed oaidtis torvilnte terrori; 
quamobrem, occultato eo, reliqua duloedine invitatas oorripiunt" 

(St. 9S3.) I scarcely know whether I hare translated this stania property. 
The variegated work (expreased by gatrSut in the original) seems to havB 
been produced by different sorts of fiir. The grd vnde bvnt of St 62 seems 
to mean the same thing. Gold thread or wire, and someOiing like gold laoe 
appear to have beenfashioDahleomamentsinOiedreasofboaiaexee. Preoiona 
stones, too, were in great request But I own I have been much puizled by 
the milliners' and tailors' work in the poem, and I dare say hare made mia- 
tskes. I may observe that the women were both tailors and milliners. Eriem- 
bild herself was an accomplished outter (see St 374), and, if it bad not been 
for her assistance, her brotlier and his companions would not have been fit to 
be seen at the splendid court of Brunhild. The men were expert cnttsra in 
their line, but their instrument was the broadsword. 

(St 983.) In this poem the edges of a sword are oonjlantly spoken of in 
the plural. The warriors seem to have bad only two-edged swords. 

(St. 997.) The fbortfa line of this etants, which is admitted as genuine 1^ 
Professor I^cbmann, is ona of these passages whiob are at Tarianc* notmarelj 



KOTES. 438 

witb hia theor7, but with that which attribates tha two parts of the poem to 
two different aotbon. It i«fais to the alau^hter towards ths olwa of the uoond 
part, and would be impertcoent and out of plaoe in a poem that oonoludad 
with the death of one hero only. 

(St, 1001.) The poet sajB the broad linden, aocordinfr to Tai-hTnann^ 
Hraming that the itor; of Siegfried's death under a linden tree wsi g^neraUj 

(St 1005.) InteUetto reloce pi& che pordo. Fetraroh. Bonn. 266. 

(6l 1007.) JohnaOD quotes from Eooleaiaatioue, " I bava no thank fbr all 
mj good deed." So in St. Lulie vL 33 — " If ; e do goiA to them that do good 
to you, what thank have je ?" 

(St, tS3S.] laehmann'B Sinth lay beginabere and end» with St. 1104. 
The Profeeeor has no otgeotian to ooaeideriofr thii and the preoeding' Iaj as 
works of (he nune anthor. 

(St 1042.) The two last lines of this etanu, and the two first of the next 
are rqeoted by Frofeasor lAjhmann, because, as he thinks, they oontzadict 
tbelaatlineofSt. 1044, trhere Kriemhildpiofeeeee her ignorance of die mur- 
derer. Bat Eriemhild ia not a witneae on oath, but a woman in a frenzy of 
grief, who does not weigh her words, but one moment utters an obvious ms- 
picion, as if it irsre on ascertained &ct, and the next oanfessea that she has 
no positive proof, and oannot act npon what she feels to be true. There is no 
very great inoonnltenDy in saying, "A. and B. are at the bottom of this ; if I 
could only bring it home to them, rd make them aniartfor it." But tbs 
neuter pronoun in the 3rd line, referring to houbet in the Snd, proves that the 
Sod line is not interpolated. Profeeeor Imdunami, indeed, gela over the diffi- 
cult by altering the gender of tha proDOuD to the masculine. 

(St. 1041.) The last verse of this stanza seems a preparation for the disiday 
of Eriemhild'B oharaoter in a new point of view. Ilie eofter parts of ber 
eharaeter have been exhibited thus fhr ; ber ravangefol and anfi>rgiving spirit 
will gradually swallow up every other feeling, and at last olosa tha poem witb 
a general nutMaore. See too Stanias lOSB— 1005— 1078. 

(St 1061.) I have translated the Snd lioe of this stanu aooording to Sim- 
rock's version, but it is impassible U make any SHtis&otory ssnse of it. Pro- 
fessor lAohmann has justly printed the atanta in italics. 

(Bt t076.) On this curious superstition, which is as much English and 
Scotch as Oennan, see Ifare^s Olossary under the word " Wounds," and the 
notes to " Earl Richard'' in the second volume of the Minstielsy of the Soot- 
2p 



434 SOIBB. 

tigh Barder. The whole pasMige ta coDdenmed na epnttani by iKhmatm, 
principally OD account of the diicrepancy in tlie menlioii of «onnda in the 
plural, while only one miund mu given bj Hagan. Thrre are, bowerer, two 
dmilar diacrepanciee in the poem. Eriemhild la killed by HOdebrand 
apparenUy with ■ tingle blow, aod immediately aftor is ipoken of oa hewn in 
pieoe*( and Bade^ ia killed by a tingle blow at St.2297, while at St.£31Q 
he ia described as wrfcmiwn, and at St. 2M4 as lying with aevere death- 
woonda fallen in blood. 

(St. 1107.) LaiAmanu'alteitb Lay beginahere, and eiula with St. 1179. 

(St. 1187.) 3%<^ in the laat line of thla atanzB eeema to mean the Burtfun- 

(SL 1132.) Here Biey go home to Netherland; beCbie, in thia Adventure, 
the NibelanferB' land ie spoken of aa the country of Siegmund. Tbii haa not 
escaped the hawk's eye of Laohniann. 

(St. 1162.) The ftiorsinif gift waa a present bestowed by the husband on 
the wife the morning atlet the weddii^. It was often promiaed beTois 
marriage. 

St, lies.) Thia passage, which states that Siegfried wore the cloud-cloak 
at all times, agreea with the description of its mode of operation at St. MO, 
bat ia inconsiatent with stanzas 441 — 185, from which iaat It would aeem to 
have been oeoeesary for Sit^fried to put on the ckiak in order (o become in- 
Tiaible, and to put it off when be wished to become visible again. The in- 
consistent passages probably arose &om varying traditions as to the operation 
of this mirocoloua garment. There is another difficulty here. From Alberic'a 
words it would aeem that the possession of the treasure depended on the po>- 
aesaion of the cloud-ckiak. If he and hia fellows had not tost the cloak 
together with Siegfried {bj which last words he seems to refer not to the 
origiaa] loss of the ctoak, when Siegfried flret won it, but to its loss in eon- 
sequence of that hero's death) the Burgondiana should not have had the 
treasure, but we are no wbere told what became of the cloak ailer Slegtiied'i 
death, and Ehemhild claims the treasure as a gift from Siegfried, not as 
depending on the possession of the cloak. 

(gt. 1189.) Lachmann'a Eleventh Lay begins here, and ends with St. 1341. 
"The bistorieal relation of Etzel to Attila," says Profeeoor W. Qrimni 
(Deutache Heldenaage, p. 67)," ia quite clear. It is here strengthened by the 
" mention of bis brother Blcadetin, wbo answers to the Bleda of Friacns and 
" Jomondes, and is Ibund in the Kt^re, in Biterolf, in the Tilldna Ba^ attd 



,,C()i)gle 



X0T£s. 435 

"other later poems. Helohe,olherwws £rka, Herabe, Herricbe, and Haricbe, 

" temiodi lu of the Kerkft of Priscus." FiiecDt ma mcretarj to HKzimiD, 
theambaseadOTof TheodonnatheTounBerat theoourt of AttUn, ondTTote a 
hutorf, of wbiob exiraota are atiR ecttant. The followiii{( is hia aauunt of 
BD iDterriew with KstIlo, the " &au Helohe" of our poem. ' BvravSa Ttj^ 
'ArriiXa ivfuuroufiivitc japtr^c, SUi tUv »p4c ry 9ipf ^apji&paiv 

Toit It rqc IfKdE iriXdiroi; rou iSapove UKtiroiuvav, Hart Ir' aiiT&v 

/3aff{iiv. ■npuZn St air^v GiparAyrtiir tX^Ooc KitXif tat 9ip&iratirai 

iiri rou IB&^ovc dmicpi a^rijc ta$itfuyai 6B&va^ it^pu/uurt iuwoLciXXor, 

jiri^i]Si)((o^iva£ rpie tiapov taB^iidmv fiap^ptttir. irpoatXSAp 

Toifvy col rd ^liiiMt /uri riv iaraaiiiy toic viri{{[ttv. OfbboninllM 

34tb chapter of his History hu given almiwt s traiulatiaii of Friscoa. " Hie 

wife of Attila reoeived theii visit siuiikg, or rather l^g, on ■ «oft ooneh ; 

" the floor vas oovered vitfa a carpet ; the domeetias formed a oirole nnuid 

the qoeen, and her damsels, seated on the gronnd, vere emplo}red in 

working the variegated embroidery which adorned Qie dress of the barbario 

warriora." There is a full aooouit of Attila and the Huns vitb much 

relatiDg to the Nibelungeulied in the late Has. and Bev. William Herberfi 

Historical Treatise aulgcdned to hie Poem on Attila. 

(St 1193.) The Margrave Budegerisperhapathemoetintercelingoharaflter 
in the poem, but there ie no one, with regard to whom the historical, the 
l^:eDdar7, and the mythical are more unintelligibly jumbled. Whether be 
was an biatorioal Austrian Hargrave of the lOth osntnrj, a mere lefreodary 
bero, ta"A divine being," as Laclunann is dispoeed to *i>i"V biro, is more than 
any plain Wng'liatiiimii can venture to decide. It seams that his native 
country was Arabia, bat whether by that name ismeant the region eonunonly 
BO called, or a diatriot in Hbe centre of Spain, is as yet any thing but a settled 
point. Wherever it was. he wae driven from it by a king of Toledo, and 
took refuge with £tzel. 

(8t. 1208.) I am onoertain whether I have given the true meaning of tins 
stania, which is rejected by Lacbmann, and, indeed, can Hoaraely be 
reconciled with the reat. I have used Sttn and Hungarian in differently. 
The Hungarians were of a different race &oro the Huns, but Mr. Hallam eaye 
of them, " The memory of Attila woe renewed in the devastatione of these 
" savages, who, if they were not his compatriots, reaambled Uiem both in their 
and customs." 

2 F 2 



..Moy Google 



(St 1SI9.) See Lachmann (St. 1113 L.) vbooonjeotarM eriintt tattifSOel 

(St. 1235.) Thii refers to rameUiing: not related in thu poem. 

(St. IS47.] Here again is an alluiioa to sometliiDg not mentioned ia the 
poem, namely, to some Berrice rendered by Budeger to Hagan. 

(St 1363.) The poet, Thopnt this speech into the month of anQther,oould 
have had no notion of the real history and extensive power of AtCila. 

(St. 1308.) King Etiel appears to have been a tnilj' liberal and enligblened 

(St. 133S.) In the last line of this stanza, the plural of the verb is 
anthorixed by three mannsorlpta, and, though they may be none of the beat, 
their readings deserve attention, vhen they are commanded by neceasi^ and 
common sense. The plural (in for tAnen) in the preceding line reqniree the 
pinral in this. The young' ladies cried at leaving home, but were soon 
reconciled to their lot by the gaietiee of King Etzel'i court If the reader li 
not eatiafied irith this, ha can replace they by jA«. Kriemhiid win then be 

(St 1340.) Tergen. Verin^n in Suabia, on the Laucbart, three leagues 
from the junction of that river with the Danube. lechmann, St. 1331, L. 

(St. 1346.) This good bi^op Pilgrii), irbo ia on hlBtorical persona|:e, died 
in the lOth century, and therefore could scaroely have been Attila's wife'a 
uncle, if chronology ia to pass fbr any thing with popular poets. All that 
relates to bim ia ngected as spurious by Locfamann and W. Qrimm. See the 
latter's Deutsche Eeldensage, p. 71. 

(St 1362.) EXerdii^ a town of Austria beyond the Bma near the Danube, 
(Ton der Hagen, v. 53S1 .) 

(St. 1364.) Botlung was the &ther of Etzel according to the poets. Hto 
real name was Munduic. 

(St 1378.) Medi]ik,now Hiilk, an abbey still renowned for the abundance 
and excellence of ita wine stores. It supplied Buonaparte's army in 1800. 

(St 1398.) lAcfamann rejects atanzae 1398-1401-1403 (13eS-13ei-l!93 of 
hie edition.) He thinks that, even if one were determined to defend the first, 
nobody could tolerate the fiigidity and atgect style of the two last. For my 
own part, 1 am more atmclc, by the abeurdi^ of Rudeger's caution to Eriem- 
hild, not to kJsB all Etwl's men. I suppose he wsa a&aid she would have no 
lips left after such reiterated osculation. 

(St 1404.) These German atrangere or guests (TUuchen gtitenj are the 



lOTES. 437 

BurguDdiam according to Ton der Hagen, but Thulinglant MOOrding to 
Lacbnuum: The Utter lajB, tbe eipregeion does not ocout elsewbere in the 
La;e of the NDMlungen. This rentriotsd use of a term, vhicli Was oiterwarda 
extended to a whole oatlon, resembles the reetricted use of the word HelJen in 

(St. H08.) The good margnys seems here to discharge the duties of n 
male duenna. 

{6t. 142S.) Von der Hagen here nottces the oustcm of tilting by the way 
in featal prooeaaions. Similar deeoriptions occur elsewhere in this poem, as 
for instanoe at the landing of Qonther and Brunhild, (St. 603). . In tbia 
reipeet the Nibelungenlied diffets &om the Orlando Innamorato and Furioio, 
as well aa from the Faery Queene, in all of wbich poems tournaments are 
ezliibited with &t more pomp and ceremony, and as matters of long prerioua 



(St 1426.) Haimbui^, a town of Hungary on the borders of Austria, waa 
fortified, according to Ton der Hagen, by Duke Leopold of Austria, out of tbe 
renaom of Richard Creur de Lion. 

(St. 14S9>) Etzel's castle, now Buda, ao called from Atlila's brother, Buds 
orBleda. 

(St 1439.}Lacbmann'8ThirteentbIdyb^ins here and ends with St. 1G55. 
(St. 1172.) See tbe note to St. 641. 

(St. 1534.) This atanza seema out of ifa place here. It should come some- 
wbere befbre the oounoil of the Burgundian chiefs, for it is neceesary to know 
when an entertaiumeDt is to take place in order to determine whether one can 
attend it, and when one ought with propriety toaet out. Hagan,be8ide8, must 
be oonudered to have had a knowledge of this, before he arranged the plan of 
eettiiig out only a week atler the departure of the amttasaadars. 
(St. 1G57.) LaohiiMHin'B Fourteenth Lay begins here and ends with St. 1696. 
(9t. 1673.) This is tbe only atanza in the second part where the term Nibel- 
UDger is applied to Siegfried's aubjeots as in the first part. In all succeeding 

(St. 1574.) Ostervranken, according to Yon der Hagen, is Austrasia, or the 
Eeetem portion of the Empire of the flunks, afterwards, though in a, more 
restricted sense, the Circle of Franconia. 

(8L 167S.) Profeasorlachmami observes that, if the fight with the Bavarians 
be not alluded to, the predicdon contained in this alania is not fulfilled, " quite 
against tbe prophetic style of this lay i" but I venture to submit tbat this ia 



43s SOTSB. 

DO ]iredictiaD ataJI, but a mere eipreMian of Che very natural opinioD, that, 
if anyaimy ibonlil attempt to iwim a large rirerina tMe of flood,maDy may 
be nrepC amy and droimed. Gemot makes a dmilBr remarii on the vant of 
a boatman M St. 1619. 

(St. 1584.) The raiment of these mermaids, vhicb ie oalled waodrmt* 
UiQtet on, seems to Iiave been the nraa-ruimaiit worn by the Talkyriea ot 
Cbooaen of the Slain, Thidi enabled itavearers to assume the shape of awanat 
or at least to fl; away. Hagan therefore had good groand to begin with layin^f 
hands on the wardrobe of these water-nymphs, thoogli his reason for dtringaa 
is so obscurely alluded to in the poem, that it may be doubted whether Um 
poet wu tdmaelf aware of the tviginal Bwce of the b^rend. In the tradiliona 
respecting TBlund,Widand, or Wayland tha Smith, that hero oapturee a wife, 
by a tUnilar stratagem. Tbe swan-maiden in Widand's oaae was one of the 
Valkyries, and indeed tbe two mermaids in the Nibelungrenlied appear, from 
^ part asrigned to them in the poem, to be genniDe Choosers of the Slain. 
Theaa swan-msidens, as &r as their Tolstile ohareeter is oonoemed, seem to 
have given a hint to the anthor of Peter Wilkins. 

(St 1603.) Soin the old lay of Hildebrand<afragmeiit of vUch, written OD 
the flrst and on the last leaf of a manuscript of the Book of Wisdom and other 
religions pieces, wm diBCorered in the public library of Cassel by W. Grimm) 
that hero offers arm-rings to his son, wbo not knowing him, bad ohallenged 
him to fight. It was the custom to off^ such rings on tbe point of a sword or 
qwar, and to receive them in the same way. To provethisW. Orimm qnotea 
this passage among othen. See lacbmann's treetiBe on the Lay of HUde- 
braod in the TracsactionB of the Berlin Academy of Sciences, 1833. The 
same word (boue) is need both here and in the old lay. 

(St. 1S23.) This stanza, which appeus in only two manuscripts, seemB 
incompatible with the rest of the narrative. It was probably introduced hy a 
reciter flvm a description of a ferry boat in some other poem. 

(St. 1644.) On the other side Adam, soon as be heard 
The btal treapasB done by Ere, amaz'd, 
Astonied stood, and blank. 

Far. Lost, iz. 888. 
Upright men shall be astenied at Oiis, (Job. xvii. 8.) 

(St. 1093.) Rudder is an AnstrianAzylus. (niadTi.14.) 
iifvti^ flioToio, piXac f^v dvOfniwoiffif, 
iravraf yAp piXiimiv, ofiji Itri oixia vaiuv. 



ogle 



The Gemun poem is hers ocrtoiuly not inferior to the Oreek. Similea are 
M rare in the NibelimjreDlied >a thej fie iibundant in the Iliad, but it would 
be difficult to find one DU>re just and elegwit tbtai tluB. 

(St. 1696.) TiinhTnann'a lEIfleenth Laj begiua here ; it ooncludes with 
Bt 1786. 

(St. I7S7.) I quote wme paaBB^es from EUia'a Speoimeni on the cualom of 
Uie two sezea efttiog apajl. 

The Idng was to hie palaee, tho the aervioe vas jdo, 
Tlad irith all his roeoye, and tbe queen to hen aUo, 
For hii beld the old usaj^ (hat men irith men wCie 
B; hem aalve, and women by hem selve also there. 

Bobert of Gloucester (Specimens, toL L p. 100.) 
The abore metre, though very rough end uncontii, reaemblea (hat of the 
TTibelunpeuhed. In the oorreaponding paesage quoted by EUia from 0«affiry 
of Monmouth, the cuetom is aaid (o hare come from Troy. " Astiquam oon- 
" Buetudinem TroJEe Bervautes Britonea consuereraDt marea cum maribus, 
" mulierea oum molieribus, feativos diea aeparatim oelebrare." Ellis gives a 
drnflar acooimt of Arthur's oonmation from Hubert de Bruime'e tnuulation at 
Wace. 

Sometime was ouatom oTTtoj, 
When they made feast of joy. 
Men tagetlier ebculd go (o meat ; 
Ladiea by themself ebould eat. 
See tbe note to St. 676. 

(St 1734) There ie a diffioulty here from its being said that tbe young 
mai^ravine was deaired to go (o oonrt, t. e. to the assembly in the hall, when 
at St 1737 the ]8dies((iMj<iAsn0» in the origipa])had already returned thidier. 
T"**""""" removes the difficulty by ooodemning the Staniaa 1734-1735-173$ 
as spniious ; he thinks it impoadble that any one can oolleat from the 3rd 
line of St. 17!iS that the men went into a different hall from that which they 
had entered at St 1722 ; but it ie not the 3rd but the 2nd line of St 1725 
that dcocribet tbe sepamtion of the men and women, and that too in the fol- 
lowing words 

rittere unde vrouwen die gieagen anderawH ; 
now who can coDect from this verse that the women went and the men staid I 
If words mean any thing, both went away. As to tbe return of the ladiee at 
St 1727, that reels on a doubtful reading, die i^ianen, the fiiir ones, whereas 



•«ioy Google 



440 HOTES. 

the beatnunoMript, tliat on whicli Prof^uor I^ohmann'B text la gtaet£lj 
fcnnded, readfliu t«m«n, ttnbold.oDu,meaniii^lbekiug:hte. I should add 
that the preluDiuary ooliTenation from St. 1736 to St. 1734 is fitter to be held 
Id the jonng lad/s ataenoe. 

(St. 1747.) These foreign ohampiom are the Buigundians IhemielTea ae- 
oording to Ton der Haj:eii. TMa ia &r from aaUs&otory, bat I can offer 
noQiiiig mOTe bo. Can it be poeeibie that there tw onoe a Tendon (now leaQ 
of the stray, in vhieb the NibelungeiB, properly bo called, aocompanied the 
Biusimdians into Hungary? Tbis might aoooDnt not merely for tbeee foreign 
obampiona, but &r flw term Ifibtlvngt being applied to the Bm^undians. 
But, in &ot, every thing rdathig to tbe NibelungeiB i» obaoure and oonfuaed 
to the laat degree. 

(St 1763.) Tfodung vas the ion, or, fwcording to another account, the 
huttaer of GoteHnd. 

(St 1709.) ZAohmanD tranapoaaa tbi« and the two fblloiriiig Stanras to 
after St 1768, irbere they &nD the beginning of tie Sixteenth lAy, which ends 
wlOi St 16S7. The speech which begins at the 3rd line of this bIbiizs is 
attributed to the maaeoiger by Von der Eagen, and perhaps justly, as qipear« 
tnoD the last Terse of the next stanaa, bum wMoh it would seem that the 
king heard the news afterwards. On the other hand, Kriemhild bere ia 
addressed in the amgular, while bi a sipiilar passage (St 334) she is addroaacd 
by a messenger in the plunU. She, bowoTer, woiild searoely have utl«red 
befbre Et«el the words at the oloae of St. 1771. 

(St 1773.) Bemeis Verona acoording to Ton der Hagen and Waokemagel 
and the whole body of (^ommentatorB. Von der Hagen applies to Hildcbrand 
the words in the 3rd line, ex niai im httrU liet ; so does Marbach. BraimfelB 
and Beta apply them to Dietcioh. Butin that case would not the author have 
•ud dem wai eij 

(St. 1776,) The Amelungs, or Amelungers, were the reputed desoendants 
of Amala, king of the Goths, the tenth ancestor of Theodorio king of Italy. 

(St 1777.) This &mous hero, the redoubted Dietrich, is only a seoondary 
eharaoler in the IfibeHuDgeolied, though in old German tiaditiona generally he 
bears the principal part. He was the aon of a nocturnal spirit, and his flcry 
beath made him more than a match for Siegfried himsdf, as it melted the 
horny hide of his antagonist Be is identified, I believe by universal consent, 
with Theodoric the Ostiogoth. I am afraid it is too oertain that he came to a 
bad endgbutwhstberhe disappeared on being Enunmoned tr^ a dwarf, or was 



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HOTSS. 441 

carried offby tha Deril in tlie shape of a blaok hone, or, aooordin; to the 
mouaatia ]«geai reported by Gibbon, was depodted by fool fiends in tbe 
Tolctuui of IJpttri. is more than I can deoida. 

(Sl 1792.) lAchmaiin'E SeTentemth Iaj begina here, and ends with St. 
1908. 

(St. 1793.) Hagan's snqrioionj are natural enough, tor KriemhM appeare 
to have kinad nobod; but Qiaelber, vbereaa, aooDrding to the etiquette of thii 
poem, the (booM not only hsra Idsead her other two brothers, but Hagaa bim- 
•elf, not merely as her oonnn, but aa one of Onntber's priooipal retainers. 

(St 1788.^ This stauiaii Treated by Lachmann on aeooimt of the interior 
rhyme mnv end ntare in the Srd and 4th lines, but surely the outbreak of 
Hagan in the next atanta i* the beginning of a speech. It would hare been 
more pUnalUe, if St I7S8 i* to be rqleoted, to r^eet St 1797 u well, fbr the 
UntlineofSt 1790 would oome in very well after the laat of St 1796; but 
then, on the oQier band, no answer would be given to £riemhild'a queatian, 
" where bare yon that bestowed f ' 

(St 1799.) The two lanpoagea agree in taking the devil's name in vain 
by using it as a ludicrous but iordble negntive. The phrase is authoriied by 
Johnson. 

(8t 1600.) Ton der Hagen explains these two robberies 1^ observing fliat 
Stgan had despraled Eriemhild of her own inheritanoe as well aa of tbe 
wondrous hoard. The poem itaelf, bowevor, seems to explain the matter 
somewhat dillerently. Hagaa aommittedthe firgt robbery wben bo took the 
hoard (St IIB9) ; the seoond, when be seised Si^fried's other treeaocee.. 
(8t 1320.) 

(St 1806.) Laohmann places this and the following stamasafterSt 1791, 
as part of his Sixteenth I^y. 

(St 1614.) Von der Hagen discovers here (v. 706S of his Bsmarks) a 
trace of the tradition (which, however, ia not nolioed in this poem) that Hagan 
had lost an eye. This ^pean visionary to me. At St 2006 the same words 
are q^tlied to Dankwvft, who certainly had two eyes in bis head. Twioe in 
this poem a personal description of H^an oeaure(St 426 and 1769) and in 
neither case is a bint given that he was a dux huevt. The author or aothoni 
of the Nibelungenhed, therefbre, must have followed a different tradition. 

(St 1841.) It is Folker's long broadsword that the poet, with a grim kind 
of merriment, calls his fiddlestiak. We shall soon see the minstrel avfiav 
itiwtiUrarov wpox^pivuv. 



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M2 VOTIS. 

(SL 1668.) Walter of Spaia, WalUMrba nonti Jbrtit, ie the hero here 
aUuded to. fiee note to SL 3123. 

. (St. 1860.) Thia itania, and those tliat follow, come, according to Lsob- 
nunn's HTuigameDt, oftet St. 1805, and fbrm part of his Seventeenth Laj. 

(St 16S1.) This alludOD to the future ieof suohanatureaB tobeiireom- 
ciUlde irith the notion of separate lajrs. The like majbenid of many other 
paaugea. 

(St. 186S.) Morat or moron, anlazsi I oan make out from a rather coa- 
Auednote of Ton derHagen'a was a sort of caudle, flavoured irith mulberry 
or oherrj juice. Ziemann'g recipe is to take old and good irine, and to mix 
it -with mulberry iTnip, rose julep, cinnamon water, and an ad libitum iafiiBion 
of eimflee. All this together composes the sweet drink in question. 

(St 1894.) So in the BalUd of the Locbnuhen Harp»r in Ou Uinetrd^ 
of the Soottiih Border, 

Aud aye he htuped, and aye be oarped, 
Till a' the noblea were bit asleep. 

(St 1696.) " Aj) now," BAjB Yonder Hogen," at the ontranoe of many old 
buildings, portioulBrly churches, a .lower stands, containing the stain which 
lead diteotlj to the upper story." 

(St IS97.) This itanta, which is onlj fi>und in the Lasaberg and two other 
nunnscripta, seems to have been inserted, like several others, in order to soften 
the ferodoDB character attributed to Eriemhild in the latter part of the poem. 

(St I9DB.) The whole of this Slat adventure is supposed b; I^hmann to 
be on addition to the Guregoing. His reasons are any thing hut conclusive. 

(St 191 8.) Acoording to Von der Hagen the shields were high enough for 
the bearer to lean upon tbem, end pointed below, so that they m^bt he firmly 
fixed in the groirad. They thus, I prMume, in some degree proteoted the 
owners, even while the latter were resting. 

(St 1920.) The dnst was raised by the borses, as the Hans seem to have 
ridden from the palaoe. 

(St 1931.) " The Kings" here, as mostly elsewhere, are the three Bar* 
gundian brothers. 

(St 1971.) Eriembild here deals with Blcadel as Juno does in the Uiodwidi 
Sleep, and in the .£neid irith <EoIus. 

(St 1960.) Something eeems defective here, for it ii not explained wh«t 
bad object Eriemhild had in view in sending for her son, though it so happmed 



NOTss. 443 

that mischief came of it Ton der B«gen and Vollmer, mention the Booonnt 
In the Villdiut S^ra, ancerdini; to irhich EriemMd, in order to set tbe Hum 
and Bur^undiuia by the ean, told ber son to ibika Hagm in Ae face, and 
Hagan returned the oompliment b; cutting off the lad's head and throving it 
Into hie mother'B 1^, but tbia Is inoompatible vith the manner in vMch the 
flg'htiDi: begiiu in our poem, though tbia partioular atanu aeema to rder to 
■ometliiiig of that sort. The reviaer of the I^wberg manuaoript seems to 
have observed the difficulty ; at least Ibe last tine of the stanza is different in 
that manuscript. Fossibl; this stansa may have crept in from a now lest 
reoension, which mors neariy resembled Oie TLkinB 8ag«. Tbe like may be 
taii of St. 16S3, wbieh oontajna the celebrated oontiadictioD about the age of 
Dankwart, 

(St. 19QS.J Tbia stania ia oompletely at variance with tbe eailier parts of 
the poem, in which Dankwart is represented as Kt^fried's companion in arme. 
It is therefore a most efflcient ally of those oritica, who attribute the poem to 
two or twenty different bards, and tiiis has peiiiaps rather blinded (bem to its 
defeota. It is quite inoondstent with the heroic eharacter displayed by Dank- 
wart in this very portion of tbe poem, and, as an answer to Blcedel's apeeoh, it 
a conannmuite piece of stupidi^. Blcsdel bad not accused Danlcwart of hav- 
ing murdered Si^r^^ied or olfended Kriemhild, but of being tbe brother of 
Hagan, who had done both. Dankwart should either have attempted to shew 
that Hagan, not himself, was innocent, or that tbey were not brothers, or he 
should have ■atfsei tbe bordship of making one brother euflte for the crimes 
of another. Any of these anawem would have been to the purpose ; not so 
the speech which la put into his mouth here. BLcsdel, with eqnal absurdity, 
after having already told him that he must die beoansa his brother Hagan had 
murdered S^'fiied, now replies that he must die because bia kifumtit Qontber 
and Hagan had doike the deed. It appeara probaUe that here, as elsewhere, 
a passage has crept in from another version of the Ic^iend, vbiob agieed, 
more needy than our poem, with the Tilkina Saga. I quote tbe fallowing 
passage&om the summary of that work in Tollmer'a Fre&oe to tbe Nibelnnge 
NbU " Hogni begged Attila to give peace to young Oiielber, as he waa 
" gdldeaa of Sigurd's death. Qlsether hiniKlf said that be was then only five 
" winters old, and slept in bia mother'a bad ; atillbe did not wish to live alone 
" after the death of his broUiers." In tbe Tilkina Saga Hogni, who anawen 
to the Hagan of our poem, ia repreaented as tbe brother of the other three 
kings. It may appear visionary to apeaulate on the contents of a poem whiob 



...,0;COO<^|C 



maj oerer hare eiitited, 1]ut cerlainly in any verdon of the l^end, Thfeh 
repnsented Hagan ea the brother of Gunther uid QiselheT, QUelher might 
naturally hare made the speech heie put into the mouth of Dankvart, and 
baTG been told in reply that be ntuet die lor the orime that hie bralhen 
Ountber and Hagan had committed. The ide& of & recenaon more neatly 
allied to the TiUdna Saga than that wbicb ve possesa is no notion of mine. 
It wna started years ago b; no lees a peraon than Proftasor W. Ormun, 
though not Tith re&reuoe to this paaaage of the poem. See his Deutooha 
Eald«nmge, p. 168. 

(St 1996.) This mentioa of Nudung's bride, together vith That fallows in 
the next stania, is quite unintelligibla, If ve auppoee an independent la; to 
b^bi at 6t 1990. 

(fit S041.) Tianhmann seems here irltb reason to read Fclfara fiff Giiel- 
herm ,- but haire not the two manias 2Q41, S012 changed places T 

(St 3049.) With this stanza (St. 1916, L) ends lAchmann*8 Eighteenth 
Iaj. I must own that it appears to me quite impoaeiUe that any writer oould 
end a separate poem in this manner. Similar olgectiona may he made to ths 
conclusions of most of these Litder. 

(St 3050.) with bnge two-handed sway 

Brandish'd ahjft the horrid edge oame down 
Wide wasting. 

Par. Lost B. 0. 

(St. S064.] There certainly seems some oonfusiaD here. The only petals 
who bad injured Gunther in Hungary were the Huns who had massacred the 
yeomen, and these were not present in the ball. If On the other band he ana- 
pected that the Huns in the bail were privy to it, why allow Etael and Eriem- 
bild to depart without so much as an ohMzration ? why, as Lochmann has 
obaerved, does not Dietrich think it neceeeaiy even to make a request in their 
behalf! It is easy to remove these oliJeotions by dedaiii^ ereiy thing 
spurious between St 2049 and St 2092, but imibrtonataly, tbou«:h St 1976, 
which brings Etiel and Eriemhild into the hall, is not admitted into lAoh- 
mann'B I«ye, it is clear &om stsniss S031 -2033(1898—1900 L), which fhrm 
part of his Eighteenth lay, that both Eticl^and . Eriamhild were preaant in 
the hall vben the fighting began, and indeed TAj^hmann admits that the plan 
of his Eighteenth I^y requires that they Ebonld quit it The oomposer bow- 
erer of the lay, who surely ought to know his own plan best, seems to have 
been of a different opinion, ibr, after having set the Huns and Burgundiani 



BOTES. 445 

bj the ears in the ball, and pat Dtmkvtui and Volket to keep the door, hs 
has left uB to giuat tbe final result of Uisw wrioui preliminarj airaogviiientB. 
The 7DO0 Hiiiie maM&cred here are no doubt the game si the 7D0D who acoom- 
panied Kiiemhild t4i eburcb at St. 1928, and the ume perhspa at the men 
of EriemhildmeationedBt St. 1896. Theiu Iwt had oMtm^ed mischief , and 
Gunther mnj here take the irill for the deed. 

(8t.S077.) The meaning of this KanzB is any thin? but olear. From the 
original, and the two readings von and vor. It irould seem doubtful vbetber 
Hagan laments that he sat at a diatanoe from Folker, or that he took preoe- 
dence of him. 

(St. 2091.J I must cocfeu I cannot see anj inconaiateooy between the 
first line of this stanza, and the third of the preceding One ; but there is oer- 
tainlj a discrepanoy hetveen the second line, in vhieh both Hagan and 
Folker are mentioned as scoffing at Etsel, and the etanias immediately foUov- 
ing, Thieh eon&ie theiUTecliTes to Hagan. 

(St. 2D92.) lAohmaim's nineteenth I^y begins here and ends with 6t. 
2159. Scarcely any of the wholetwenty begin and end so nnappropriately as 

(St. 2099-2100-2101.) I have arranged these etanias as Bimroofc and Beta 
have done. Braunfels places tbem 2100-3099-2101. 

(St. 2121.) I have here, without intending it, stumbled on an interior 
rhyme, tounded an\fimnded. Still I OMi assure Profcasor lAohnuum that the 
stanza la genuine. 

(St. 2160.) Here begins Lacbmaan's Twentieth Iaj. 

(SL 2163.) Here they are described as coming i!i dan hite, which seenu 
to contmdict Etlemhild'* exhortAtion at St. 2174, not to let tbe Burgundians 
eomejir dett ttU. Feiliaps they here merely come out of tbe ball into a ves- 
IJbnle at the top of the staiioase, so as to speak with Etzel and Kriemhild, but 
not into the open air. 8o at St S107 Qonther and Eagan are Bud to be out- 
wdethahouse,lMit atSt. S1S7 Hagan rnsbee down &om the staircase to attaok 
Dietrioh. From St. 2127 the staircase seems to have been of no great length. 

(St. 222T.) Compare Staniae 1303-1304. 

(St. 2269.) It is odd, that the hall, which must taava been the principal 
eating hall in the oastJe, is here called Kriemhild's. Ton der Hagen thinks, 
Eriembitd had appropriated it by haiing attempted to set it on fire, but anon 
ia an odd kind of title. He supposes too it may be the ball menlionsd at St. 



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1817; jnt U rwinini ■trnnirn fhit Etsol dumld have received his gnesta anj 
irlwn bat io hia own hall. 

(Bt. S30I.) Thii itauia, w Profmor lAohmami jiutlj obaeirea, ctuuKit 
belong to EngMi, but it ^ipnipriate to QiMlher, who ia menldoned immadiately 
•Aar. 8liU there ii in nrkwudnew here. 

(St S314.) The long himself hu ooma to the feut, baa made one of the 
paitj, that is, hu been slauf htered -with the rest. See lAcbmaiui'a note. 
(St. 2173 L.) 

(St. 23G6.} I haTo villi Bimrock and Bet» fbllmred (he reading of the 
Laaaberg manuaoript, ttmchm for tHebett. The latter is explained by Bmm- 
fela and Ton der Eagen irith reference to the flying out of aparka from 
annoor, bnt thia effect foUowi in the next line. To an EngliBhuUD the read- 
ing itUben appear* to bear a oomical reae m b Uiu w to our vulgar phraae, 
" duatiag a man's jacket." 

(Bt, 2401.) The Amelungers' lend was Bern, tbat ia Verona, the ha«di- 
tary poaneealen of Dietnob ; who was driven Ironi it by hia uncle Ermanrioh 
fimperor of Home. He took refuge with Etiel, and remained in exile 30 or 
32 yeara. For what further relatea to him and the Amelungers see the nolci 
to St. 1778 and St. 1777. 

(St. 2407.) The phraae, outmde the houae, ^tm an dim h4ie, appean to 
mean merely outdde the ball. They seem to have stood in a sort of vestibole 
at the top of the atairs that lad down into the court-yard. Compare St. 2163 
and the note. 

(St. 3411.) I have ventured, in oonfinmity with the original, to talk of 
" joya lying glain," thoogb certainly the phrase aeema harah in Ei^;linb. 
One manuscript reads Jrntnde iriends, »"«>«■< otjrmdat joys. 

(St. "423.) Walter ot Spain ran away with Hildt^und &om the oourt of 
Ettel, as that nkOnaroh himself informs ua in an earlier part of this poem. 
As the young hero was passing with her throogb the Toegea or Weali momi- 
tuins, be waa attacked by Guntber with twelve knights, among whom wm 
Uagan. The latter however, " fbr old acqnaintanoe aake," refoaed to Sght 
^[einat Walter, and peraevered in his refiia^, till the Spaniard had killed 
eleven knights, and Gnnther himself was in danger. At last, after all three 
were woonded, Oiey made up matten. Aooording te the Vilkina Saga, 
Walter, after alaying the eleven knights, put Hagau to flight, and then, having 
lighted a fire, aat down with Hildegund to dine on the ohine of a wild boar. 
Ashe waa ihuB agreeably employed, Hagan fell upon him by surprise but waa 



K0TB8. 447 

pelted BO severely by Walter with the bones of the wild boar, that he escaped 
with difficulty, and, even aa it was, lost an eye. 
See W, Grimm's Deutsche Heldenaage, p. 91. 

The Lalin poei« Walthariue, which is translated trom a lost Qannan one, 
gives a more dig:nified account of the matter. There also Tlagano refuses to 
fight at first, and says 

" Erentum vidennij neo oonsors sim spoliorum^^ 
Diierat, et collem petiit moz ipse propinqnum, 
Descendensqna sb equo coosedit, et aspicic illo. 
Eleven biighla are Mllod, hut next day, after Walter has left a stronghold, 
where he couJd be attacked by only one at a time, he is assailed on his marofa 
by Qantber and Hagan, and the fight condnnes till Ghinther has lost a foot, 
Walter his right band, and Hagan hia right eye and twice three grinderB. 
The combatants are then reconciled. For the «tuation of this field of battle, 
see LateinUche Bedickte del 10 vnd 11 Jahrimdertt by J. Grinun and 
Schmeller, p. 123. 

(St. 2448.) This stanm, nhioh ie in the I^ssberg manuscript only, has 
been added apparently, like others, to soften the character of Kriemhild. 
(St. 34£>4.) Harrow and welaway, old exclamations of distress or ai^r. 
harrow and welaway 1 
After BO wicked deed, why liv'st thou lenger day ? 

Faery Queene, II. 8. 48. 
(St. S4S9 ) The edeln knehte here, and the vilmanle Ache kneht of St. 34, 
in both paaaagea Bssociated with knights, were no doubt of a ^r superior 
station to that of the mere knehte, 9000 of whom fbllowed Gunther into 
Hungary. These last we may call yeomen, the other squires. The edeln 
bui^sre (St. 1068) seem to have been not the mere townsfolk, but the chieb 
of tbfl corporation, the lord mayor, aldermen, and oomman council of Worms. 



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