Wm H. Carpenter.
Columbia University, May 1, 1901.
First Adventure:Kriemhild's Dreampage1Second Adventure:Of Siegfried4Third Adventure:How Siegfried Went to Worms8Fourth Adventure:How Siegfried Fought with the Saxons23Fifth Adventure:How Siegfried First Saw Kriemhild44Sixth Adventure:How Gunther Went to Woo Brunhild53Seventh Adventure:How Gunther Won Brunhild64Eighth Adventure:How Siegfried Came to the Nibelungers78Ninth Adventure:How Siegfried was Sent to Worms86Tenth Adventure:How Brunhild was Received at Worms94Eleventh Adventure:How Siegfried Brought his Wife Home111Twelfth Adventure:How Gunther Invited Siegfried to the Festival117Thirteenth Adventure:How They Went to the Festival126Fourteenth Adventure:How the Two Queens Reviled One Another131Fifteenth Adventure:How Siegfried was Betrayed141Sixteenth Adventure:How Siegfried was Slain147Seventeenth Adventure:How Siegfried was Bewailed and Buried161Eighteenth Adventure:How Siegmund Returned Home173Nineteenth Adventure:How the Treasure of the Nibelungers was Brought to Worms177Twentieth Adventure:How King Etzel Proposed for Kriemhild185Twenty-first Adventure:How Kriemhild Departed207Twenty-second Adventure:How the Huns Received Kriemhild215Twenty-third Adventure:How Kriemhild Thought of Revenging her Injuries222Twenty-fourth Adventure:How Werbel and Swemmeline Delivered the Message228Twenty-fifth Adventure:How the Lords all Came into Hungary241Twenty-sixth Adventure:How Dankwart Slew Gelfrat254Twenty-seventh Adventure:Rudeger's Hospitality264Twenty-eighth Adventure:How Kriemhild Received Hagan275Twenty-ninth Adventure:How Hagan Refused to Rise to Kriemhild281Thirtieth Adventure:How the Knights Kept Watch291Thirty-first Adventure:How the Knights Went to Church296Thirty-second Adventure:How Blœdel was Slain309Thirty-third Adventure:How the Burgundians Fought with the Huns314Thirty-fourth Adventure:How They Threw Down the Dead323Thirty-fifth Adventure:How Iring was Slain327Thirty-sixth Adventure:How the Queen Gave Orders to Burn Down the Hall335Thirty-seventh Adventure:How Margrave Rudeger was Slain344Thirty-eighth Adventure:How Sir Dietrich's Men were all Slain360Thirty-ninth Adventure:How Gunther and Hagan and Kriemhild were Slain374Notes383
I
In stories of our fathers high marvels we are toldOf champions well approved in perils manifold.Of feasts and merry meetings, of weeping and of wail,And deeds of gallant daring I'll tell you in my tale.
II
In Burgundy there flourish'd a maid so fair to see,That in all the world together a fairer could not be.This maiden's name was Kriemhild; through her in dismal strifeFull many a prowest warrior thereafter lost his life.
III
Many a fearless champion, as such well became,Woo'd the lovely lady; she from none had blame.Matchless was her person, matchless was her mind.This one maiden's virtue grac'd all womankind.
IV
Three puissant Kings her guarded with all the care they might,Gunther and eke Gernot, each a redoubted knight,And Giselher the youthful, a chosen champion he;This lady was their sister, well lov'd of all the three.
V
They were high of lineage, thereto mild of mood,But in field and foray champions fierce and rude.They rul'd a mighty kingdom, Burgundy by name;They wrought in Etzel's country deeds of deathless fame.
VI
At Worms was their proud dwelling, the fair Rhine flowing by,There had they suit and service from haughtiest chivalry,For broad lands and lordships, and glorious was their state,Till wretchedly they perish'd by two noble ladies' hate.
VII
Dame Uta was their mother, a queen both rich and sage;Their father hight Dancrat, who the fair heritageLeft to his noble children when he his course had run;He too by deeds of knighthood in youth had worship won.
VIII
Each of these three princes, as you have heard me say,Were men of mighty puissance. They had beneath their swayThe noblest knights for liegemen that ever dwelt on ground;For hardihood and prowess were none so high renown'd.
IX
There was Hagan of Trony of a noble line,His brother nimble Dankwart, and the knight of Metz, Ortwine,Eckewart and Gary, the margraves stout in fight,Folker of Alzeia, full of manly might.
X
Rumolt the steward (a chosen knight was he),Sindolt, and Hunolt; these serv'd the brethren three,At their court discharging their several duties well;Besides, knights had they many whom now I cannot tell.
XI
Dankwart was marshal to the king his lord,Ortwine of Metz, his nephew, was carver at the board,Sindolt, he was butler, a champion choice and true,The chamberlain was Hunolt; they well their duties knew.
XII
The gorgeous pomp and splendor, wherein these brethren reign'd,How well they tended knighthood, what worship they attain'd,How they thro' life were merry, and mock'd at woe and bale—Who'd seek all this to tell you, would never end his tale.
XIII
A dream was dreamt by Kriemhild the virtuous and the gay,How a wild young falcon she train'd for many a day,Till two fierce eagles tore it; to her there could not beIn all the world such sorrow at this perforce to see.
XIV
To her mother Uta at once the dream she told,But she the threatening future could only thus unfold;"The falcon that thou trainedst is sure a noble mate;God shield him in his mercy, or thou must lose him straight."
XV
"A mate for me? what say'st thou, dearest mother mine?Ne'er to love, assure thee, my heart will I resign.I'll live and die a maiden, and end as I began,Nor (let what else befall me) will suffer woe for man."
XVI
"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 fair as eye can see,A fitting mate God send thee, and naught will wanting be."
XVII
"No more," the maiden answer'd, "no more, dear mother, say;From many a woman's fortune this truth is clear as day,That falsely smiling Pleasure with Pain requites us ever.I from both will keep me, and thus will sorrow never."
XVIII
So in her lofty virtues, fancy-free and gay,Liv'd the noble maiden many a happy day,Nor one more than another found favor in her sight;Still at the last she wedded a far-renowned knight.
XIX
He was the self-same falcon she in her dream had seen,Foretold by her wise mother. What vengeance took the queenOn her nearest kinsmen who him to death had done!That single death atoning died many a mother's son.
I
In Netherland then flourished a prince of lofty kind,(Whose father was called Siegmund, his mother Siegelind)In a sumptuous castle down by the Rhine's fair side;Men did call it Xanten; 't was famous far and wide.
II
I tell you of this warrior, how fair he was to see;From shame and from dishonor liv'd he ever free.Forthwith fierce and famous wax'd the mighty man.Ah! what height of worship in this world he wan!
III
Siegfried men did call him, that same champion good;Many a kingdom sought he in his manly mood,And through strength of body in many a land rode he.Ah! what men of valor he found in Burgundy!
IV
Before this noble champion grew up to man's estate,His hand had mighty wonders achieved in war's debate,Whereof the voice of rumor will ever sing and say,Though much must pass in silence in this our later day.
V
In his freshest season, in his youthful days,One might full many a marvel tell in Siegfried's praise,What lofty honors grac'd him, and how fair his fame,How he charm'd to love him many a noble dame.
VI
As did well befit him, he was bred with care,And his own lofty nature gave him virtues rare,From him his father's country grace and honor drew,To see him prov'd in all things so noble and so true.
VII
He now, grown up to youthhood, at court his duty paid;The people saw him gladly; many a wife and many a maidWish'd he would often thither, and bide forever there;They view'd him all with favor, whereof he well was ware.
VIII
The child by his fond parents was deck'd with weeds of pride,And but with guards about him they seldom let him ride.Uptrain'd was he by sages, who what was honor knew,So might he win full lightly broad lands and liegemen too.
IX
Now had he strength and stature that weapons well he bore;Whatever thereto needed, he had of it full store.He began fair ladies to his love to woo,And they inclin'd to Siegfried with faith and honor true.
X
Then bade his father Siegmund all his liegemen tell,With his dear friends to revel it would please him well.Where other kings were dwelling the tidings took their course.To friends and eke to strangers he gave both weed and horse.
XI
Whosoe'er was worthy to become a knightFor his lofty lineage, did they each invite,High-born youths and valiant to the feastful board;With the young king Siegfried took they then the sword.
XII
Of that proud feast royal wonders one might say;King Siegmund and Queen Siegelind well might that dayWin honor for the bounty they shower'd with lavish hand,For which full many a stranger came flocking through their land.
XIII
Sworded squires four hundred rich raiment had to wearWith the noble Siegfried. Full many a maiden fairCeaseless plied the needle to please the warrior bold;Precious stones unnumber'd the women set in gold,
XIV
(For gold was there in plenty), and as each could bestFor the love of Siegfried they work'd the jewel'd vest.The Host rais'd seats unnumber'd for many a martial wightOn the fair midsummer when his heir was dubb'd a knight.
XV
Forthwith to the high minster flock'd many a squire along,And many a knight of worship. To fitly train the youngThe old should lend that service which once to them was lent.They pass'd the hours in pastime and gentle merriment.
XVI
But first to God's due honor a holy mass they sung,And then a press and struggle arose 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.
XVII
All ran at once, where saddled many a war-horse stood.In the court of Siegmund the tourney was so rude,That both hall and palace echoed far around,As those high-mettled champions shock'd with thundering sound.
XVIII
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 oneFrom hands of mighty champions; all there was deftly done.
XIX
The Host bade cease the tourney; the steeds were led away;Then might you see, all shatter'd how many a shield there lay,And store of stones full precious from bucklers beaming sheenIn those fierce shocks were scatter'd upon the trampled green.
XX
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 burning thirst allay'd:To friends alike and strangers was fitting honor pay'd.
XXI
Albeit in ceaseless pastime they sent the livelong day,The mummers and the minstrels never ceas'd their play.They flock'd to golden largess, a roving frolic band,And pour'd a flood of praises on Siegmund's fertile land.
XXII
The king, too, as his father to him before had done,Enfeoff'd with lands and castles Siegfried his youthful son;Gifts to his sword-companions he gave with liberal hand,So glad was he, it pleased them to come into his land.
XXIII
The gorgeous feast it lasted till the seventh day was o'er;Siegelind the wealthy did as they did of yore;She won for valiant Siegfried the hearts of young and old,When for his sake among them she shower'd the ruddy gold.
XXIV
You scarce could find one needy in all the minstrel band;Horses and robes were scatter'd with ever open hand.They gave as though they had not another day to live,None were to take so ready, as they inclin'd to give.
XXV
So was dissolv'd with honor the mighty festival:The high-descended Barons assembled there in hall,That youth were well contented as lord to serve and sue,But that desir'd not Siegfried, the champion stout and true.
XXVI
While Siegelind and Siegmund yet liv'd and flourished there,Full little reck'd their offspring the royal crown to wear.He only would be master and exercise command,'Gainst those whose pride o'erweening disturb'd the peaceful land.
XXVII
None ventur'd to defy him; since weapons first he took,The bed of sloth but seldom the noble knight could brook.He only sought for battles; his prowess-gifted handWon him renown eternal in every foreign strand.
I
'Twas seldom teen or sorrow the warrior's heart assay'd;At length he heard the rumor, how a lovely maidIn Burgundy was dwelling, the fairest of the fair.From her he won much pleasure, but dash'd with toil and care.
II
By fame her peerless beauty was bruited far and wide,Nor less her lofty virtue, and her pure virgin prideWas day by day reported among the martial band.This drew guests every flocking to good King Gunther's land.
III
For all the host of suitors that sought to bend her will,True to her own coy promise remain'd fair Kriemhild still,That she, for all their wooing, would love vouchsafe to none.He was a distant stranger, who at last her favor won.
IV
Then sought the son of Siegelind to gain the haughty fair;The vows of other suitors to his were light as air.Such knight deserv'd to vanquish the coyest maiden's pride;Ere long the noble Kriemhild became bold Siegfried's bride.
V
His kinsmen and his liegemen then gave him counsel true,That now, if he in honor were inclin'd to woo,He should be bound in wedlock to no unequal make:Then said the noble Siegfried, "Sure will I fair Kriemhild take,
VI
"The bright Burgundian maiden, best gem of Gunther's throne,Whose far-renowned beauty stands unapproach'd, alone;On earth nor king nor kaiser lives there so proud, I ween,But he might deem him happy to win so fair a queen."
VII
Forthwith were the tidings to Siegmund's ear preferr'd;His anxious liegemen told him; from them his father heardThe high design of Siegfried; it much to heart he laid,That he aspir'd so boldly to win so fair a maid.
VIII
The news came eke to Siegelind, the noble monarch's wife;Full sore the mother trembled for her darling's life,For well she knew fierce Gunther and his vassals stern;So strove they both the champion from his high emprise to turn.
IX
Then spake the valiant Siegfried, "Dearest father mine,The love of high-born women forever I'll resign,Rather than play the wooer but where my heart is set."Howe'er they sought to move him, but small success they met.
X
"Since naught can then dissuade thee," outspake his royal sire,"Glad am I, blood of Siegmund should to such height aspire,And so thy hopes to forward I'll do the best I can;Yet in his court has Gunther many a proud o'erweening man.
XI
"E'en were there none but Hagan, that redoubted knightIn pride can match the proudest, the mightiest in might;So that, my son, I fear me, this hour we both may rue,If our minds are settled the stately maid to woo."
XII
"What can ill befall us?" Siegfried made reply;"If that misproud Burgundian my friendly suit deny,Be sure, as much and more, too, I'll seize by strength of hand;In this I trust to strip him of liegemen and of land."
XIII
"Little thy words content me," the hoary prince replied,"In the land of King Gunther thou sure durst never ride,If, on the Rhine, young Siegfried, this tale were only told.Gunther and eke Gernot I know them both of old.
XIV
"By force, fair son, assure thee, can none the maiden woo,"Resum'd the princely Siegmund, "this I have heard for true;But if with knights to back thee, thou'lt ride to Gunther's land,We've friends enough, and forthwith I'll summon all the band."
XV
"'Tis not to me well pleasing," the fiery youth replied,"That I the Rhine should visit with warriors by my side,As in array of battle, and 'twould my honor stain,If I should need assistance the peerless maid to gain.
XVI
"I little care to win her save by my own good hand;With comrades but eleven I'll hence to Gunther's land.Thus far, father Siegmund, of you help I pray."Then his friends, to trim their garments, receiv'd striped furs and gray.
XVII
To his mother Siegelind the heavy news they bore;The queen straight for her Siegfried began to sorrow sore.She shudder'd lest the lov'd one should all untimely dieBy the fierce knights of Gunther, and wept full bitterly.
XVIII
Then in haste went Siegfried where she her moan did make,And thus his sobbing mother tenderly bespake,"Weep not for me, dear mother, in better hope repose,Count me forever scathless e'en 'midst a thousand foes.
XIX
"So give me all that's needful through Burgundy to ride,That I and mine may journey with such fair weeds suppliedAs best becomes companions of high degree to wear,And from my heart I'll thank thee for all thy love and care."
XX
"Since naught 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 dightWith weeds the best and fairest that e'er were worn by knight."
XXI
Then to the queen young Siegfried in duty bent him low,And said, "Upon this journey I would not that we goMore than twelve together, so these with robes provide.Full fain am I to witness how stands it with my bride."
XXII
Fair women at the needle were sitting night and day;Scarcely could a seamstress her head on pillow lay,Till robes were work'd for Siegfried and all his company.The youth was ever yearning to start for Burgundy.
XXIII
His sire prepar'd his armor, and nothing left undone,That he might leave his country as fitted Siegmund's son;Well temper'd were their breast-plates that flash'd against the light,Of proof were their morions, their bucklers broad and bright.
XXIV
Their way they now were ready to Burgundy to take;Then man and wife were heavy with sorrow for their sake,Lest evil should befall them, and bar their homeward road,With weapons and apparel the heroes bad the sumpters load.
XXV
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 that fair companyThat with him leave were taking, all bound for Burgundy.
XXVI
The king and queen, each weeping, gave him leave to part,And he to both gave comfort all with a loving heart."Weep not," said he, "dear parents, of better courage be,I'm safe where'er I travel, so take no thought for me."
XXVII
Ah! woe were then the warriors, and wept, too, many a maid,Their hearts, I ween, the future in deepest gloom array'd,And told them from that journey many a dear friend would bleed.Full cause had they for sorrow, it brought them woe indeed.
XXVIII
On the seventh fair morning by Worms along the strandIn knightly guise were pricking the death-defying band.The ruddy gold fair glitter'd on every riding vest;Their steeds they meetly govern'd, all pacing soft abreast.
XXIX
Their shields were new and massy and like flame they glow'd,As bright too shone their helmets, while bold Siegfried rodeStraight to the court of Gunther to woo the stately maid;Eye never look'd on champions so gorgeously array'd.
XXX
Down to their spurs loud clanging reach'd the swords they wore;Sharp and well temper'd lances the chosen champions bore.One, two spans broad or better, did Siegfried sternly shake,With keen and cutting edges grim and ghastly wounds to make.
XXXI
Their golden-color'd bridles firm they held in hand;Silken were their pöitrels; so rode they through the land.On all sides the people to gaze on them began;Then many of Gunther's liegemen swift to meet them ran.
XXXII
Many a haughty warrior, stout squire, and hardy knight,Went to receive the strangers as fitting was and right,And, as to guests high honor'd, did courteous service yield,Their steeds held as they lighted, and took from each his shield.
XXXIII
They were in act the chargers to lead away to stall,When the redoubted Siegfried quick to them did call,"Nay, leave us here the horses, we look not long to stay,Anon with my companions I shall wend upon my way.
XXXIV
"Affairs of high concernment this squadron hither bring,So, whoso knows, straight tell me where I may find your king,The wide-renowned Gunther, who reigns in Burgundy."Then one who near was standing thus answer'd courteously,
XXXV
"If you would find the monarch, you need not long to wait;In yonder hall at leisure myself I left him lateBegirt with all his warriors; there you may feast your sight:In sooth you'll find about him full many a stately knight."
XXXVI
Now to great King Gunther were the tidings told,That there had journey'd thither hardy knights and bold,Yclad in flashing armor and glittering vesture gay,But who and whence the strangers, could no Burgundian say.
XXXVII
Much wonder'd the monarch, whence came the gallant band,That with so fair equipment had reach'd Burgundian land,And with so massy bucklers; that none could tidings bringOf those heroic strangers, but little pleas'd the king.
XXXVIII
To Gunther then made answer the knight of Metz, Ortwine,A warrior bold and mighty, and of the loftiest line,"Since none of us can tell you who these same knights may be,Send for my uncle Hagan; let him strangers see.
XXXIX
"He knows the proud and puissant of every foreign land;So we, what now we guess not, from him shall understand."Him and his warlike vassals the impatient king bade call,And soon redoubted Hagan strode tow'ring through the hall.
XL
"What would the king with Hagan?" the warrior made demand."Here in my house are wand'rers from some far-distant land,Unknown to all around me; observe the strangers well,And if thou e'er hast seen them, the truth, good Hagan, tell."
XLI
"That will I straight," said Hagan; to a window then he went,And his eyes attentive on the strangers bent.Well pleas'd him their fair vesture, and well their armor sheen,Yet sure the like he never in Burgundy had seen.
XLII
"Whencever come these champions whom chance to Rhineland brings,Kings might they be," said Hagan, "or messengers of kings.How highly bred their chargers! how gorgeous their array!Wherever lies their country, high-mettled lords are they."
XLIII
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 befall)'Tis he that's stalking yonder, so stately and so tall.
XLIV
"He brings some new adventure to our Burgundian land;The valiant Nibelungers he slew by strength of hand,Nibelung and Shilbung the princes stern in fight,And since has many a wonder achiev'd with all-surpassing might.
XLV
"As all alone and aidless he was riding once at will,As I have heard reported, he found beside a hillWith Nibelung's hoarded treasure full many a man of might;Strange seem'd they to the champion, till he came to know them right.
XLVI
"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.
XLVII
"He nearer came and nearer, close watching still the clan,Till they got sight of him too, when one of them began,'Here comes the stalwart Siegfried, the chief of Netherland.'A strange adventure met he with that Nibelungers' band.
XLVIII
"Him well receiv'd the brethren Shilbung and Nibelung.With one accord they begg'd him, those noble princes young,To part the hoard betwixt them, and ever pressing bentThe hero's wavering purpose till he yielded full consent.
XLIX
"He saw of gems such plenty, drawn from that dark abode,That not a hundred wagons could bear the costly load,Still more of gold so ruddy from the Nibelungers' land.All this was to be parted by noble Siegfried's hand.
L
"So Nibelung's sword they gave him to recompense his pain,But ill was done the service, which they had sought so fain,And he so hard had granted; Siegfried, the hero good,Fail'd the long task to finish; this stirr'd their angry mood.
LI
"The treasure undivided he needs must let remain,When the two kings indignant set on him with their train,But Siegfried gripp'd sharp Balmung (so hight their father's sword),And took from them their country and the beaming precious hoard.
LII
"For friends had they twelve champions, each, as avers my tale,A strong and sturdy giant, but what could all avail?All twelve to death successive smote Siegfried's mastering hand,And vanquish'd chiefs seven hundred of the Nibelungers' land.
LIII
"With that good weapon Balmung; by sudden fear dismay'dBoth of the forceful swordsman and of the sword he sway'd,Unnumber'd youthful heroes to Siegfried bent that hour,Themselves, their lands, their castles, submitting to his power.
LIV
"Those two fierce kings together he there depriv'd of life,Then wag'd with puissant Albric a stern and dubious strife,Who thought to take full vengeance for both his masters slain,But found his might and manhood with Siegfried's match'd in vain.
LV
"The mighty dwarf successless strove with the mightier man;Like to wild mountain lions to th' hollow hill they ran;He ravish'd there the cloud-cloak from struggling Albric's hold,And then became the master of th' hoarded gems and gold.
LVI
"Whoever dar'd resist him, all by his sword lay slain,Then bade he bring the treasure back to the cave again,Whence the men of Nibelung the same before had stirr'd;On Albric last the office of keeper he conferr'd.
LVII
"He took an oath to serve him, as his liegeman true,In all that to a master from his man is due.Such deeds," said he of Trony, "has conqu'ring Siegfried done;Be sure, such mighty puissance, knight has never won.
LVIII
"Yet more I know of Siegfried, that well your ear may hold;A poison-spitting dragon he slew with courage bold,And in the blood then bath'd him; this turn'd to horn his skin.And now no weapons harm him, as often proved has been.
LIX
"Receive then this young hero with all becoming state;'Twere ill advis'd to merit so fierce a champion's hate.So lovely is his presence, at once all hearts are won,And then his strength and courage such wondrous deeds have done."
LX
Then spake the mighty monarch, "Thou counsellest aright.See how stands full knightly, prepar'd for fiercest fight,He and his hardy comrades, the death-defying man!Straight we'll descend to meet him as courteous as we can."
LXI
"That be assur'd," said Hagan, "with honor may be done;Of lofty kin is Siegfried, a mighty monarch's son.Me seemeth, if to purpose his bearing I have eyed,By heaven, 'tis no light matter hath bidd'n him thither ride."
LXII
Then spake the country's ruler, "He shall be welcome here,Bold is the knight and noble, that I discover clear,And much shall it avail him on our Burgundian ground."Then thither went King Gunther where he Siegfried found.
LXIII
The host and his companions so well receiv'd the guest,That nothing there was wanting 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 fair.
LXIV
"I wonder much," said Gunther, "and fain would understand,Whence comes the noble Siegfried to this Burgundian land,And what he here is seeking at Worms upon the Rhine."The guest to the king made answer, "Concealment is no art of mine.
LXV
"Afar I heard the tidings, e'en in my father's land,That here with you were dwelling (fain would I know the band)The best and prowest champions so voic'd by all and some,That ever king surrounded; I'm therefore hither come.
LXVI
"Your own renown I've heard, too, through all this country ring,That never eye of mortal has seen so bold a king.Your prowess and your knighthood are vouch'd by high and low,Now ne'er will I turn homeward till this by proof I know.
LXVII
"I too am a warrior, and shall a sceptre sway,And I would fain bring all men perforce of me to say,That I both land and liegemen have nobly merited.This to maintain I'll freely pledge, my honor and my head.
LXVIII
"Now since you are so famous for manhood and for skill,Naught reck I, if my purpose be taken well or ill,But all that's own'd by Gunther I'll win by strength of hand,And force to my obedience his castles and his land."
LXIX
The king was lost in wonder, and with him all the rest,At such a strange pretension from that o'erweening guest,Who claim'd his whole possessions that stretch'd so wide around.His vassals heard the challenge, and for anger sternly frown'd.
LXX
"How," cried the valiant Gunther, "have I deserv'd this wrong,That what my noble father with honor rul'd so long,I now should yield to any, o'ermaster'd by his might?Ill should I show, that I too can bear me like a knight!"
LXXI
"I'll ne'er renounce my purpose," the fiery youth replied;"If through thy might thy country cannot in peace abide,I'll take on me to rule it, and what I hold in fee,If thou by strength canst take it, shall alike submit to thee.
LXXII
"Let thy broad lands and mine too be laid in equal scale,And whichsoe'er in battle o'er th' other shall prevail,To him let all be subject, the liegemen and the land."But Hagan sought, and Gernot, such purpose to withstand.
LXXIII
"To us 'tis little pleasing," Gernot made reply,"That we should lands be seizing, whose lords should slaughter'd lieThat we may win unjustly; our lands are fair and wide;We are their rightful masters, and none they need beside."
LXXIV
Grim glar'd King Gunther's warriors (of gathering wrath the sign!)Among them lower'd the darkest the knight of Metz, Ortwine."It irks me much," exclaim'd he, "to hear these words of pride.Sir King! by haughty Siegfried thou'rt wrongfully defied.
LXXV
"Were thou and thy brave brethren stript of those arms you boast,While he to back his quarrel should bring a royal host,E'en then I'd trust to teach him a humbler pitch to fly,And cower as low before us, as now he mounteth high."
LXXVI
Wroth was at this defiance the chief of Netherland.He cried, "Thou durst not venture 'gainst me to lift thy hand.I am a mighty monarch, a monarch's man art thou;Should twelve like thee resist me, twelve such to one should bow."
LXXVII
Then 'gan for swords call loudly the knight of Metz, Ortwine,The sister's son of Hagan, pride of his lofty line.It irk'd him that his uncle so long had silent stood.Bold Gernot interposing thus cool'd his fiery mood.
LXXVIII
"Ortwine!" said he, "be calmer; why thus to weapons run?To us the valiant stranger no such offence has done.We yet may part in kindness; I rede thee, wrath give o'er,And make a friend of Siegfried; this still were to our credit more."
LXXIX
"It well may irk," said Hagan, "all us good knights of thine,That this imperious wanderer e'er rode unto the Rhine.Such strife-producing journey were better ne'er begun.Ne'er had the kings my masters by him so evil done."
LXXX
Thereto straight answer'd Siegfried, fiercely frowning still,"If these my words, Sir Hagan, have chanc'd to please you ill,Be sure, high deeds of valor, you at these hands shall see,Deeds, that e'en less may please you here in Burgundy."
LXXXI
"This I alone," said Gernot, "can turn from evil end;"So all his warriors bade he the stranger not offendWith words that breath'd defiance, and thus the turmoil stay'd;And Siegfried too was thinking upon the stately maid.
LXXXII
"How suits this strife with either?" the prudent warrior said,"How many chiefs soever should in this broil lie dead,By us would little honor, by you small gain be won."Thereto gave answer Siegfried, King Siegmund's haughty son:
LXXXIII
"But wherefore lingereth Hagan, and wherefore proud Ortwine,That, with their friends thus swarming upon the banks of Rhine,Nor one, nor other ventures a stranger's arm to brave?"Both kept unwilling silence, such counsel Gernot gave.
LXXXIV
"You shall to us be welcome," resum'd Queen Uta's son,"You and your faithful comrades, all and every one.We shall be proud to serve you, I and all kin of mine,"Then for the guests 'twas order'd to pour King Gunther's wine.
LXXXV
Then spoke the sov'reign ruler, "Whatever ours we call,Should you in honor claim it, is at your service all—Our persons—our possessions—if so it seems you good."Thereat became Sir Siegfried of somewhat milder mood.
LXXXVI
Forthwith their whole equipment down from their beasts was brought;For Siegfried and his fellows with fitting zeal were soughtOf all convenient chambers the choicest and the best.At length the bold Burgundians look'd friendly on their guest.
LXXXVII
Thenceforth were fitting honors paid him many a day,A thousand-fold, be certain more than I can say.This earn'd his strength and valor; so gracious was his state,'Twas rare that any mortal could look on him with hate.
LXXXVIII
Their hours they spent in pastime—the kings and all the rest—Whate'er the sport that pleas'd them, 'twas Siegfried play'd it best.Such was his skill and puissance, that none could come him nearTo hurl the stone tempestuous or dart the whizzing spear.
LXXXIX
Whene'er before the ladies, all in courtly guise,Plied the contending champions their knightly exercise,Then all look'd on delighted as noble Siegfried strove;But he his thoughts kept ever fix'd on his lofty love.
XC
At court the lovely ladies were asking evermore,Who was the stately stranger that so rich vesture wore,At once so fair of presence and so strong of hand.Then many a one gave answer, "'Tis the King of Netherland."
XCI
He ever was the foremost, whate'er the game they play'd.Still in his inmost bosom he bore one lovely maid,Whom he beheld had never, and yet to all preferr'd;She too of him in secret spoke many a kindly word.
XCII
When in the court contending fierce squire and hardy knight,As fits the young and noble, wag'd the mimic fight,Oft Kriemhild through her window would look, herself unseen:Then no other pleasure needed the gentle queen.
XCIII
What then had been his rapture, could he have only guess'd,That on him she was looking, who reign'd within his breast!Could he but once have seen her, I ween, not all the bliss,That all the world can lavish, would he have ta'en for this.
XCIV
Whene'er, as is the custom at intervals of sport,He midst the crowd of heroes was standing in the court,So graceful was the bearing of Siegelind's matchless son,That the heart of every lady that look'd on him he won.
XCV
Oft too would he be thinking, "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! Ah! Woe is me, unhappy one!"
XCVI
Whene'er the kings it needed through their land to ride,Then kept their faithful liegemen attendance by their side,And with them forth must Siegfried; this irk'd his lady sore;He through her love was pining the while as much or more.
XCVII
So with those kings, high honor'd Siegmund's noble sonIn Gunther's land was dwelling till full a year was run,Nor, all that weary season, a single glimpse could gainOf her, who after brought him such pleasure and such pain.
I
Now strange and stirring tidings were brought to Gunther's throneBy messengers commissioned from foreign chiefs unknown,Who bore the brethren malice, and whom they well might fear.When they receiv'd the message, right heavy was their cheer.
II
The same I now will 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 many a famous warrior both brought with them along.
III
Their messengers, hard riding, came to King Gunther's land,As his far-distant foemen had given them in command;Then ask'd the crowd, what tidings the unknown guests might bring.To court they straight were hurried, and set before the king.
IV
Them well the monarch greeted: "You're welcome; never fear;From whom you come, I know not, but willingly would hear,And it is yours to tell me." So spake the monarch good.Then 'gan they sore to tremble at Gunther's angry mood.
V
"Since you, O king! permit us to utter plain and trueThis our high commission, naught will we hide from you.Our masters we will tell you, who gave us this command.King Ludegast and King Ludeger will visit you in this land.
VI
"You have deserved their anger; for truth can I relate,That both our puissant masters bear you deadly hate.They'll lead a host unnumber'd to Worms unto the Rhine.Of this be warn'd for certain; fix'd is their proud design.
VII
"Within twelve weeks at farthest their camp will onward go;If you've good friends to aid you, 'twill soon be time to show.Their best will sure be needed to guard both fort and field,Soon shall we here be shiv'ring many a helm and many a shield.
VIII
"Or would you seek a treaty, let it at once be said,Ere their prevailing myriads, one wasteful ruin spreadThrough all your wide dominions with their consuming might,And Death unsated feast him on many a gallant knight."
IX
"Now wait awhile, ye strangers," thus spake the noble king,"I must think, ere I answer the message that you bring.I've friends and faithful liegemen, whose sage advice I use,And with them I must counsel take on this heavy news."
X
The nigh approaching danger irk'd King Gunther sore,And the proud defiance deep in heart he bore;He sent for valiant Hagan and many another knight,And Gernot, too, bade hasten with all the speed he might.
XI
At once they flock'd around him, a stern and stately band;Then spake the king, "Proud strangers, here, in our own good land,Have sent to bid us battle; weigh well such tidings told."Thereto straight answer'd Gernot, a hardy knight and bold.
XII
"Then with our swords we'll meet them; defiance we'll defy;None but the death-doom'd perish, so bravely let them die;I'll ne'er forget my honor for all they choose to send.So fierce a foe to Gernot is welcome as a friend."
XIII
"Rash hold I such hot counsel," said Hagan, Trony's knight,"Both Ludegast and Ludeger are men of mickle might:In so few days our vassals we scarce can muster well."He paused a space, then added, "The news to Siegfried tell."
XIV
Meanwhile they lodg'd the strangers within the city fair;Though all were foes around them, King Gunther bade them shareAll courteous entertainment; so fitly dealt the king,Till he had learn'd, what forces he might together bring.
XV
Right ill at ease was Gunther; his brow was clouded o'er;A gallant knight, who mark'd him what heavy cheer he bore,Who had not heard the tidings, nor thus the truth could guess,With friendly will thus mov'd him his sorrow to confess.
XVI
"I wonder much," said Siegfried, "why I of late have seenWith care so overshadow'd that frank and merry mien,That gave a zest to pleasure, and heighten'd each delight."Whereto gave answer Gunther the far-renowned knight;
XVII
"To all the world I cannot my bitter bale impart;Bear it I must, and wrap it close in my inmost heart.Bosom woes can only to bosom friends be said."Thereat the hue of Siegfried wax'd both white and red.
XVIII
He thus bespake the monarch, "I ne'er denied you aught,And now will serve you truly, whate'er be in your thought.Need you friends, King Gunther? no firmer friend than I.Is it a deed of danger? I'll do it, or I'll die."
XIX
"Now God reward you, Siegfried; your words they please me well;E'en should your strength avail not this danger to repel,There's comfort in such friendship as you have shown to-day.Let me live a little longer, well will I all repay.
XX
"And now my source of sorrow, Sir Siegfried, you shall know;It comes of two proud princes, each my deadly foe,Who me with war would visit, and all my lands o'errun,A deed that here by warrior before was never done."
XXI
"Take little thought," said Siegfried, "of them and their emprise;Calm but your anxious spirit, and do as I advise.Let me for you advantage as well as honor win,And bid at once to aid you your warriors hasten in.
XXII
"If your o'erweening foemen can together callThirty thousand champions, I'll stand against them allWith but a single thousand; for that rely on me.""For this," replied King Gunther, "I'm ever bound to thee."
XXIII
"So from your army give 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 from Siegfried's faithful hand.
XXIV
"And Hagan too shall help us, and with him stout Ortwine,Dankwart and Sindolt those loving lords of thine,And fear-defying Folker shall our companion be;He shall bear our banner; better none than he."
XXV
And forthwith did the envoys back to their lords return:"Tell them they soon shall see us, and to their cost shall learnHow we devise protection for castle and for town."Straight call'd the king his kinsmen and the suitors of his crown.
XXVI
The messengers of Ludeger before th' assembly went;They heard with joy and gladness that home they would be sent.With costly presents Gunther their parting steps pursued,And with them sent an escort; this rais'd full high their mood.
XXVII
"Ye messengers," said Gunther, "thus to your masters say,They'd best be pricking homeward as quickly as they may;Or, should they please to seek us among our liegemen true,Let but our friends be faithful, we'll find them work to do."
XXVIII
Then forth the costly presents to the messengers 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.
XXIX
Now when back to Denmark were come the envoys bold,And to the stout King Ludegast had the tidings told,How they of Rhine were coming, fierce war themselves to bring,To hear of their high courage troubled sore the king.
XXX
Said they, "Yon proud Burgundian has many a man of might,But for the first and foremost we mark'd a matchless knight,One that men call Siegfried, a chief of Netherland."Ill foreboded Ludegast from such a foe at hand.
XXXI
When to them of Denmark were these tidings told,The more their friends they summon'd to muster manifold,Nor press nor hasty message did stout Sir Ludegast slack,Till twenty thousand champions were marching at his back.
XXXII
Alike to brave Sir Ludeger did his Saxons throng,Till they in arms had gather'd full forty thousand strong,Ready at his bidding through Burgundy to ride,Nor less at home did Gunther his men at arms provide.
XXXIII
His kinsmen and his brethren he begg'd at once to speed,And to the war that dar'd them their muster'd vassals lead,And death-defying Hagan; they gather'd far and nigh.Full many a chief thereafter that journey brought to die.
XXXIV
They one and all were stirring; no loiterer was there;The danger-daring Folker the standard was to bear.To cross the Rhine they purpos'd and leave their native land.Hagan the knight of Trony was marshal of the band.