XXXV
With them, too, rode Sindolt, and with them Hunolt bold,Both resolv'd by service to earn King Gunther's gold,And Dankwart, Hagan's brother, and the brave Ortwine,Alike would seek for honor in the march beyond the Rhine.
XXXVI
"Sir King," said noble Siegfried, "here sit at home and play,While I and your vassals are fighting far away;Here frolic with the ladies and many a merry mate,And trust to me for guarding your honor and estate.
XXXVII
"Those foes of yours, that threaten'd as far as Worms to roam,I will be their surety, that they shall bide at home.So deep within their country we are resolv'd to ride,To wail shall turn their vaunting, to penitence their pride."
XXXVIII
From Rhine through Hesse advancing they rode upon their way,Toward the Saxon country, where after happ'd the fray.Far and wide they ravag'd, and fiery brands they toss'd,Till both the princes heard it and felt it to their cost.
XXXIX
They now were on the borders; then hasten'd every man,When the stalwart Siegfried thus to ask began:"Who shall be appointed to guard our company?Sure ne'er was raid that threaten'd such ill to Saxony."
XL
They answered, "Let to Dankwart the charge committed beTo guard the young and heedless; more nimble none than he.We thus the less shall suffer from aught our foes design.To him commit the rearward, and with him too Ortwine."
XLI
"Myself alone," said Siegfried, "will ever forward ride,Till I have found our foemen and all their strength espied.Keep watch and ward unceasing till I this task have done."Then donn'd at once his armor fair Siegelind's martial son.
XLII
At parting he his people in charge to Hagan gave,And with him eke to Gernot the prudent and the brave;Then all alone went riding through the wide Saxon realm;And soon that day he shatter'd the band of many a helm.
XLIII
That mighty host next spied he, as wide encamp'd it lay.It might his single puissance a hundred-fold outweigh.Better than forty thousand were muster'd there for fight,Sir Siegfried mark'd their numbers, and gladden'd at the sight.
XLIV
Before the camp he noted a knight, that on his groundStrong watch and ward kept heedful, and peer'd on all around.At once of him was Siegfried, and he of Siegfried ware,And each began on the other angrily to glare.
XLV
Who was this watchful warder, now you shall be told.At hand by him lay ready a flashing shield of gold.Twas e'en the stout King Ludegast, that watch'd his gather'd might.Fiercely upon the monarch sprung the stranger knight.
XLVI
As 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 puissance each level'd at the shield.Ill chance befell King Ludegast in that disastrous field.
XLVII
Beneath the spur blood-dripping the steeds together flew;Champion clos'd with champion as though a tempest blew.Then wheel'd they round full knightly; each well the bridle sway'dAgain they met unsated, and with blade encounter'd blade.
XLVIII
Such strokes there struck Sir Siegfried, that all the field it rang;At each, as e'en from torches, the fire-red sparkles sprangFrom Ludegast's batter'd helmet. So strive they all they canAnd either stormy champion in th' other finds his man.
XLIX
At Siegfried too Sir Ludegast struck many a sturdy stroke;Each on his foeman's buckler his gather'd fury broke.Full thirty men of Ludegast's meanwhile had spied the fray,But, ere they up could hasten, Siegfried had won the day.
L
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 woful Ludegast grovelling on the green.
LI
He straight for life sued humbly, and yielded up his claimTo all his lands, and told him that Ludegast was his name.On this up came his warriors, who from afar had seenThe fight, that at the ward-post so fiercely fought had been.
LII
Thence Siegfried thought to bring him, when sudden all the bandOf thirty set upon him; well then the hero's handMaintain'd his royal captive with many a mighty blow.The peerless champion wrought them yet heavier loss and woe.
LIII
He fought with all the thirty till all but one were slain;To him his life he granted; he trembling rode amain,And told the truth disastrous to all the gaping crew;On his bloody helmet they might see it written, too.
LIV
Woe were the men of Denmark to hear the deadly tale;Their king too was a captive; this added bale to bale.They told it to his brother; he straight to storm began.Wroth was he to have suffered such loss by arm of man.
LV
So by the might of Siegfried was Ludegast led awayTo where the men of Gunther in watchful leaguer lay,And given in charge to Hagan; when they came to hearThe prisoner was King Ludegast, they scarcely shed a tear.
LVI
Now rear they bade the banner the bold Burgundian crew."Up!" cried the son of Siegelind, "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 for many a son.
LVII
"Ye hardy knights of Rhineland, take of me good heed.Right through the ranks of Ludeger your valor will I lead.You'll see by hands of heroes helmets cleft amain.Shame shall they learn and sorrow ere we ride home again."
LVIII
At once to horse good Gernot and all his meiny sprung,At once the glittering banner to the breeze was flungBy the bold minstrel Folker riding in the van;So moved they on to battle, war-breathing every man.
LIX
No more than e'en a thousand went on the hard emprise;With them twelve stranger champions. Now 'gan the dust ariseAlong the paths they trampled; they rode by copse and fieldAnd startled all the country with the flash of many a shield.
LX
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.
LXI
The war-directing marshal led on the troop amain,And thither too fierce Siegfried brought up the scanty train,That had his fortunes follow'd from distant Netherland.Busied that day in battle was many a bloody hand.
LXII
Sindolt and Hunolt and noble Gernot tooIn the fierce encounter many a champion slew,Who, ere they felt their puissance, little thought to quail;Many a noble lady then had cause to wail.
LXIII
Folker and Hagan, and eke the fierce Ortwine,Death-defying champions, dimm'd many a helmet's shineWith bloody streaming torrents that down began to run;There too were by Dankwart mighty marvels done.
LXIV
Every man of Denmark frankly tried his hand;You might have heard a clatter ring throughout the landOf shiver'd shields and sword-blades; 'sooth the work was rough,And the hurtling Saxons damage did enough.
LXV
Where the stern Burgundians plung'd into the strife,Many a wound was given, and let out many a life.The blood from that red slaughter above the saddles stood;Woo'd as a bride was honor by heroes bold and good.
LXVI
But louder still and louder in every hero's handClash'd the keen-ground weapons, when those of NetherlandBehind their charging master rush'd into the fight.On they came with Siegfried; each bore him as a knight.
LXVII
Not a lord of Rhineland could follow where he flew.You might see red spouting the riven helmets throughSudden streams of slaughter where Siegfried smote around,Till he at last King Ludeger before his comrades found.
LXVIII
Thrice pierc'd he through the Saxons, and thrice return'd again,From van to utmost rear-guard still trampling down the slain;Nor was it long, ere Hagan came up his part to bear.Down then must proudest champions before th' unconquer'd pair.
LXIX
When the stalwart Ludeger saw noble Siegfried nigh,Who in his hand wide-wasting ever heav'd on highThe storm-descending Balmung, and slew him many a slain,Grimly frown'd the monarch, and burn'd with wrath amain.
LXX
Dire was the storm and struggle, and loud the sword-blades clash'd,When both the thick battalions each on the other dash'd,Each angry leader panting to meet in stern debate.The crowd began to scatter; then fiercer rose their hate.
LXXI
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, Gernot the deed had done,But now he knew for certain, 'twas Siegelind's conqu'ring son.
LXXII
So burly were the buffets which Ludeger dealt in field,That Siegfried's panting charger under the saddle reel'd.Soon as the steed recover'd, a fiercer passion stirr'dHis angry lord, and hotter through the red press he spurr'd.
LXXIII
Then up to help him Hagan, and up good Gernot sped,Dankwart and Folker; 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 Rhine.
LXXIV
Close fought the chiefs, unsever'd 'spite of the hurtling bandsThen might you see the lances from mightiest heroes' handsFly o'er the nodding helmets, and pierce the bucklers through;Many a glittering armor was dyed a bloody hue.
LXXV
In the fierce encounter many a mighty manTumbled from the saddle; each on th' other ranLudeger and Siegfried, each the other's peer;Many a shaft was flying, whizzing many a spear.
LXXVI
Off flew Ludeger's shield-plate by dint of Siegfried's hand.Then look'd at last for conquest the knight of NetherlandOver the struggling Saxons, such force was in that stroke.Then too how many a breast-plate the strong-arm'd Dankwart broke!
LXXVII
Just then it chanc'd King Ludeger had a crown espiedPainted upon the buckler that guarded Siegfried's side.Straight knew the astonish'd Saxon, 'twas he, the mighty man,And to his friends the hero to call aloud began.
LXXVIII
"Stop! stop! enough of fighting, my merry men each one!Here in this bloody battle I've met with Siegmund's son.The chief-destroying Siegfried for certain seen have I.The devil has sent him hither to harry Saxony."
LXXIX
He bade them lower the banners; forthwith they lower'd them all;And peace he then demanded; 'twas granted at his call;But go he must a pris'ner to good King Gunther's land;This was from him extorted by Siegfried's conqu'ring hand.
LXXX
With one accord agreeing the bloody strife they left;The shining shields all shiver'd, the helmets hack'd and cleftThey laid aside o'er-wearied; whatever down they threwBore from Burgundian falchions a stain of bloody hue.
LXXXI
They took whome'er it pleas'd them, none could their will gainsay.Gernot and valiant Hagan at once bade bear awayThe faint and feeble wounded, and with them carried thenOff to the Rhine as captives five hundred chosen men.
LXXXII
With wailing back to Denmark the bootless warriors came;The late o'erweening Saxons bore off but loss and shameFrom that disastrous struggle; each hung his pensive head.They last their friends remember'd, and sorrow'd for the dead.
LXXXIII
Anon they bade the sumpters be loaded for the Rhine;And thus victorious Siegfried his perilous designHad brought to full performance; well had he done in fight;This every man of Gunther allow'd him as of right.
LXXXIV
To Worms straight did a message from good Sir Gernot come,To tell throughout the country to all his friends at homeWhate'er in that encounter to him and his befell,And how they all their duty had knightly done and well.
LXXXV
The youths they ran their swiftest, and nois'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,
LXXXVI
How the knights of Gunther in Saxony had sped.Then too the lovelorn Kriemhild had one in secret led(For publicly she durst not) to a distant bower apart,For she would learn how far'd it with the chosen of her heart.
LXXXVII
Soon as to the chamber the melancholy maidSaw the youth approaching, sweetly thus she said,"Now tell me happy tidings, and I'll give thee gold in store,And if 'tis truth thou tell'st me, I'll befriend thee evermore.
LXXXVIII
"Tell me how in battle my brother Gernot sped,And all our friends around him; is any of them dead?Who prov'd the best and bravest? this thou must tell me true.""No coward," the youth made answer, "had we in all the crew;
LXXXIX
"But sure to fight or foray (the simple truth to tell)Fair and noble princess! rode never knight so wellAs the noble stranger from distant Netherland.Wonders that mock believing were wrought by Siegfried's hand.
XC
"However well the others have borne them in the fight,Dankwart and Hagan, and all our men of might,Howe'er deserv'd the honor, that other swords have won,'Tis a puff of wind to Siegfried, King Siegmund's glorious son.
XCI
"Well plied the rest the falchion, and wielded well the spear,But ne'er from tongue of mortal expect at full to hearWhat feats were done by Siegfried, when he broke the squadrons through;Those feats the weeping sisters of slaughter'd brethren rue.
XCII
"There lay the heart's-beloved of many a mourning bride;Beneath his sounding sword-strokes cleft morions, gaping wide,Let out the ruddy life-blood gushing fearfully.Sir Siegfried is in all things the flower of chivalry.
XCIII
"There too won no small worship the knight of Metz, Ortwine;Whomever reach'd the warrior with keen-edg'd falchion fine,Down went they from the war-horse, some wounded, others dead.There too your valiant brother as wide the slaughter spread,
XCIV
"As e'er was done, believe me, since armies met in fight;So much must all men witness of that redoubted knight.There too the proud Burgundians so nobly strove for fame,That well they have assur'd them from every taint of blame.
XCV
"Before their level'd lances was many a saddle void;Around the field re-echoed when they the sword employ'd.The noble knights of Rhineland fought so well that day,Their foes had sure done wiser at once to flee away.
XCVI
"The gallant men of Trony did deeds they well may boastWhen with united squadrons to battle rode the host.What numbers fell by Hagan and Hagan's chivalry!Long shall their glory flourish here in broad Burgundy.
XCVII
"Sindolt and Hunolt, each Gernot's liegemen true,And never-daunted Rumolt so rush'd the foemen through,That ever will King Ludeger repent his vain designTo meet your royal brethren on the banks of Rhine.
XCVIII
"But of all feats, the fairest, that in that field befell,From first to last most glorious, as all who saw can tell,Were those achiev'd full knightly by Siegfried's deadly hand.Now many a wealthy captive brings he to Gunther's land.
XCIX
"Beneath his arm, submission the brother kings have learn'd;Proud Dane and haughty Saxon alike defeat have earn'd;Dead lie their loving vassals wide o'er the bloody green.Now to my tale yet listen, high and noble queen!
C
"Now both are hither wending, the thralls of Siegfried's hand;Chief ne'er such countless captives brought to Burgundian land,As now to Rhine are coming, o'ermastered by his might."Ne'er heard the royal maiden a tale of such delight.
CI
"More than five hundred prisoners, for truth, high lady! know,Unhurt, are hither coming; full 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.
CII
"Those kings, who late so haughty would dare us on the Rhine,Must now to Gunther'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.
CIII
Her cheek, late pale as lily, now glow'd with rosy red,To hear how youthful Siegfried so gloriously had sped,Rais'd from the depth of peril to loftiest height of fame.She joy'd too for her kinsmen as maiden well became.
CIV
Then spake she midst her blushes, "Well hast thou earn'd thy meed,Well hast thou told thy story, so take thee costliest weed,Now straight I'll bid be brought thee ten marks of ruddy gold."No wonder, to rich ladies glad news are gladly told.
CV
Straightforth was brought the vesture, and down the gold was paid;Then hurried to the windows full many a lovely maid,And look'd out on the highway, nor long delay'd to spyThe high-descended victors return'd to Burgundy.
CVI
The safe and sound came forward; the wounded did the same;Merry was the meeting; none fear'd reproach or blame.Forth rode the host to meet them; his mirth had no alloy;The woe, that long had worn him, was now shut up in joy.
CVII
His own full well receiv'd he, and well the strangers too;Sure nothing so befitting could wealthy monarch do,Than kindly greet such victors as now his court had soughtWith gain of such clear honor from field so sternly fought.
CVIII
Then ask'd the noble Gunther of the conquering train,How many of his warriors had in the strife been slain.There had been lost but sixty in the fight they won.They were mourn'd and forgotten, as with many has since been done.
CIX
Th' unwounded bore exulting, grim trophies of the field,Full many a batter'd morion, full many a shiver'd shield.Before the hall of Gunther from horse the champions sprung;Around from joyful thousands one shout of welcome rung.
CX
The warriors in the city were lodg'd as might be best;The king with courteous service bade 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.
CXI
Thus he said to Ludegast, "King Ludegast, welcome here.Much at your hands I've suffer'd, and more had cause to fearBut all's at full repaid me, if smooth my fortune run.God requite my warriors! they well for me have done."
CXII
"Ay, you may gladly thank them," said Ludeger, "'tis their due;King ne'er had such high captives as they have won for you.Meanwhile, for courteous treatment, good store of gold we'll bring,And look for such reception as king may claim from king."
CXIII
"Take what you ask," said Gunther, "both set I gladly free.Still must I have assurance that here awhile with meMy foes consent to tarry, and do not leave my landTill peace be made between us." To that King Ludeger gave his hand.
CXIV
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 were pour'd the mead and wine.Never were men so merry as these beside the Rhine.
CXV
Attendants to safe keeping the batter'd bucklers bore,The blood-bespatter'd saddles, whereof was plenteous store,They hid, lest sight so sorry should make the women weep.Many a good knight o'erwearied home was glad to creep.
CXVI
The guests from good King Gunther all noble treatment found.With friends as well as strangers his country swarm'd around.He bade for the sore wounded all needful aid be sought.Where was their haughty courage? how low it now was brought!
CXVII
Whoe'er had skill in leechcraft was offer'd coin untold,Silver without measure as well as glittering gold,To cure the fainting champions by wounds of war oppress'd.The bounteous monarch sent, too, rich gifts to every guest.
CXVIII
Those who, of feasting weary, homeward sought to wend,Were press'd to tarry longer, as friend will deal with friend.King Gunther call'd a council; he would his men requite,Who for his sake so nobly had won that gallant fight.
CXIX
Then spake the good Sir Gernot, "At present bid them go.When full six weeks are over, we'll let the warriors know,We here shall need their presence at feasting rich and high;Then will restor'd be many, who yet sore wounded lie."
CXX
And now would noble Siegfried to Gunther bid adieu;Soon as the friendly monarch the warrior's purpose knewHe lovingly besought him a longer stay to make.He ne'er had so consented but for his sister's sake.
CXXI
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,
CXXII
For the sake of that fair lady he yet would linger 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,Then home he rode rejoicing to the kingdom of his sire.
CXXIII
The king bade practise knighthood and joust from day to day,Well did his youthful warriors and willingly obey.Seats too before the city he rais'd along the strandFor those who were to visit the fam'd Burgundian land.
CXXIV
So bade the royal Gunther, and now the time was near,Ere came the joyful tidings to his fair sister's ear,That he with his dear comrades high festival would hold.Then were fair women stirring; their toil was manifold.
CXXV
With kirtles, and with head-gear, and all that each should wear,Uta, the rich and noble, amidst her maidens fairHeard of coming warriors, a bold and haughty train;Straight was from out the wrappers store of rich vesture ta'en.
CXXVI
For the sake of her dear children the garments forth were laid,Wherewith array'd were richly many a wife and many a maid,And many a youthful champion of warlike Burgundy;She bade, too, many a stranger be rob'd as gorgeously.
I
Now might you ever daily see riding toward the RhineTroops of good knights ambitious at that proud feast to shine.Whoe'er for love of Gunther to Gunther's court would speed,Was at his hands provided with vesture and with steed.
II
Assign'd were seats befitting to every high-born guest.Thither, as has been told us, the noblest and the bestCame two and thirty princes to that high festal tide.In gawds and gems the women each with her neighbor vied.
III
Now here, now there was busy the youthful Giselher;He and his brother Gernot each with his meiny thereRight hospitable welcome to friend and stranger made,And every fitting honor to every warrior paid.
IV
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 Rhineland; many an ailing wightGrew merry again and gladsome to see so fair a sight.
V
Each, who in bed lay wounded, though like to yield his breath,Could now no more remember the bitterness of death.By the sick the healthy could now no longer stay;Comrade laugh'd with comrade against the festal day
VI
On the good entertainment prepar'd for young and old;Measureless contentment, enjoyment manifoldEnliven'd all the people, and spread from band to band.The note of pleasure echoed through all King Gunther's land
VII
'Twas on a Whitsun' morning the warriors you might see,Five thousand men or better, fair pricking o'er the lea,Yclad in courtly raiment, to that high festival,In jollity and pastime were vying one and all.
VIII
Right well had mark'd King Gunther, who love could understand,What heartfelt love impassion'd the knight of Netherland,E'en though he ne'er had seen her, his peerless sister bare,The maid proclaim'd by all men the fairest of the fair.
IX
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 deserving that rests enduring fame."
X
He scarce had thus address'd them, when answer'd bold Ortwine,"Would you, O King! full honor to this high feast assign,Bring forth our choicest treasures to this proud chivalry,The matrons and the maidens of our fair Burgundy.
XI
"What more the heart enraptures, or courage more inflamesThan to look on lovely damsels, on high and stately dames?Bid too come forth your sister to feast each stranger's sight."Well was approv'd the counsel by each surrounding knight.
XII
"'Tis well advis'd," said Gunther, "I straight will do my part."Whoever heard his answer was inly glad at heart.Then bade he Lady Uta and her fair daughter callTo grace the court and tourney, them and their maidens all.
XIII
In haste through all the presses for rich attire they sought,What lay in wrappers folded alike to light was brought,Bracelets and clasps and brooches all ready forth were laid.Soon deck'd in all her choicest was every noble maid.
XIV
Many a young knight that morning, within his flutt'ring breast,Long'd, that on him, contented, bright beauty's glance might rest;Such glance he would not barter for all a king can own.Each look'd on each full gladly, albeit before unknown.
XV
Then bade the wealthy monarch with royal pomp and stateOf his men a hundred on his sister wait,His and the maiden's kinsmen; each carried sword in hand.These were the chosen courtiers of Burgundy's fair land.
XVI
With her the wealthy Uta 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.
XVII
On from bower advancing they came in fair array;Much press was there of heroes along the crowded wayThrough anxious glad expectance to see that beauty rare,The fairest and the noblest of the noble and the fair.
XVIII
Now went she forth, the loveliest, as forth the morning goesFrom misty clouds out-beaming; then all his weary woesLeft him, in heart who bore her, and so, long time, had done.He saw there stately standing the fair, the peerless one.
XIX
Many a stone full precious flash'd from her vesture bright;Her rosy blushes darted a softer, milder light.Whate'er might be his wishes, each could not but confess,He ne'er on earth had witness'd such perfect loveliness.
XX
As the moon arising outglitters every starThat through the clouds so purely glimmers from afar,E'en so love-breathing Kriemhild dimm'd every beauty nigh.Well might at such a vision many a bold heart beat high.
XXI
Rich chamberlains before them march'd on in order due;Around th' high-mettled champions close and closer drew,Each pressing each, and struggling to see the matchless maid.Then inly was Sir Siegfried both well and ill apaid.
XXII
Within himself thus thought he: "How could I thus misdeemThat I should dare to woo thee? sure 'twas an idle dream!Yet, rather than forsake thee, far better were I dead."Thus thinking, thus impassion'd, wax'd he ever white and red.
XXIII
So stood the son of Siegelind in matchless grace array'd,As though upon a parchment in glowing hues portray'dBy some good master's cunning; all own'd, and could no less,Eye had not seen a pattern of such fair manliness.
XXIV
Those, who the dames attended, bade all around make way;Straight did the gentle warriors, as such became, obey.There many a knight, enraptur'd, saw many a dame in placeShine forth in bright perfection of courtliness and grace.
XXV
Then the bold Burgundian, Sir Gernot, spoke his thought,"Him, who in hour of peril his aid so frankly brought,Requite, dear brother Gunther, as fits both him and you,Before this fair assembly; th' advice I give, I ne'er shall rue.
XXVI
"Bid Siegfried come to Kriemhild; let each the other meet;'Twill sure be to our profit, if she the warrior greet.'Twill make him ours forever, this man of matchless might,If she but give him greeting, who never greeted knight."
XXVII
Then went King Gunther's kinsmen, a high-born haughty band,And found, and fair saluted the knight of Netherland."The king to court invites you; such favor have you won;His sister there will greet you; this to honor you is done."
XXVIII
Glad man was then Sir Siegfried at this unlook'd-for gain;His heart was full 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.
XXIX
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 loftier at that greeting rose his lofty mood.
XXX
He bow'd with soft emotion, and thank'd the blushing fair;Love's strong constraint together impelled th' enamour'd pair;Their longing eyes encountered, their glances, every one,Bound knight and maid for ever, yet all by stealth was done.
XXXI
That in the warmth of passion he press'd her lily hand,I do not know for certain, but well can understand.'Twere surely past believing they ventur'd not on this;Two loving hearts, so meeting, else had done amiss.
XXXII
No more in pride of summer nor in bloom of MayKnew he such heart-felt pleasure as on this happy day,When she, than May more blooming, more bright than summer's pride,His own, a dream no longer, was standing by his side.
XXXIII
Then thought full many a champion, "Would this had happ'd to meTo be with lovely Kriemhild as Siegfried now I see,Or closer e'en than Siegfried; well were I then, I ween."Never yet was champion who so deserv'd a queen.
XXXIV
Whate'er the king or country of the guests assembled there,All could look on nothing save on that gentle pair.Now 'twas allow'd that Kriemhild the peerless knight should kiss.Ne'er in the world had drain'd he so full a draught of bliss.
XXXV
Then spake the King of Denmark the gather'd crowd before,"Because of this high greeting lie many wounded sore,As I know to my sorrow, by Siegfried's might and main.God grant, he ne'er to Denmark may find his way again."
XXXVI
Then 'twas proclaim'd on all sides to make for Kriemhild way;Straight went to church the maiden in royal rich arrayWith a bold train of warriors, a fair and courtly sight.There soon from her was parted the lofty-minded knight.
XXXVII
She now the minster enter'd; her follow'd many a dame;There so her stately beauty her rich attire became,That droop'd each high aspiring, born but at once to die.Sure was that maid created to ravish every eye.
XXXVIII
Scarce could wait Sir Siegfried till the mass was sung.Well might he thank his fortune, that, all those knights among,To him inclined the maiden whom still in heart he bore,While he to her, as fitted, return'd as much or more.
XXXIX
When now before the minster after the mass she stood,Again to come beside her was call'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.
XL
"God you reward, Sir Siegfried!" said the noble child,"For all your high deservings in honor's beadroll fil'd,The which I know from all men have won you fame and grace."Sir Siegfried, love-bewilder'd, look'd Kriemhild in the face.
XLI
"Ever," said he, "your brethren I'll serve as best I may,Nor once, while I have being, will head on pillow lay,Till I have done to please them whate'er they bid me do,And this, my lady Kriemhild, is all for love of you."
XLII
For twelve days the maiden each successive dayWith 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.
XLIII
From morn was there to evening and day by day withalShouting and merry-making about King Gunther's hall,Within, without, from joyance of many a mighty man.Ortwine and valiant Hagan high wonders there began.
XLIV
Whatever sports they wish'd for were ready at their will;Of each, as each had liking, each might take his fill.Thus proved were Gunther's warriors by stranger chivalry,Whence fame accrued and honor to all broad Burgundy.
XLV
They too, who lay sore wounded, crept forth to the free air;They long'd with loving comrades the gentle sports to share,To skirmish with the buckler, and hurl the spear amain;And most through such fair pastime came to full strength again.
XLVI
The host of that high festal all and some had cheerWith meats and drinks the choicest; he kept him ever clearFrom blame or ought unkingly in action or intent;And now with friendly purpose to his guests he went.
XLVII
Said he, "Good knights and noble, ere you hence retire,Receive the gifts I offer, as proofs of my desireIn all I can to serve you, this I'm resolv'd to do;Disdain not now the riches I'd gladly share with you."
XLVIII
Straight the men of Denmark to the king replied,"Ere hence we part and homeward to our own country ride,A lasting peace assure us; such peace must captives need,Who have seen their dearest comrades beneath your champions bleed."
XLIX
Now whole again was Ludegast and all his gashes heal'd,The Saxon too recover'd after that luckless field.Some dead they left behind them entomb'd in Rhenish groundThen thither went King Gunther where he Sir Siegfried found.
L
To the good knight thus said he, "Now tell me what to do;Early to-morrow morning ride home the Danish crew;With me and mine from henceforth they seek to be at one;Therefore advise me, Siegfried, what best is to be done.
LI
"What these two monarchs offer, I'll to you declare;As much as steeds five hundred of shining gold can bear,That will they gladly give me to set them free at will."Then answer'd noble Siegfried, "You then would do but ill.
LII
"Better hence unfetter'd let both together go,And that neither warrior henceforth as a foeVenture to make entry on Burgundian land,For this in full assurance let either give his hand."
LIII
"Your counsel I will follow, thus let them home return."His captive foes his message were not slow to learn,No one their gold demanded which they had offer'd late.Meanwhile their friends in Denmark mourn'd for their lost estate.
LIV
Many a shield heap'd with treasure was brought at Gunther's call;Among the friends around him unweigh'd he shar'd it all;Five hundred marks or better each warrior home might bring;This frank and liberal counsel bold Gernot gave the king.
LV
Leave soon the guests were taking; their minds were homeward bent;Then might you see how each one before fair Kriemhild went,And eke where Lady Uta sat like a queen in place.Never yet were warriors dismiss'd with so much grace.
LVI
Empty was left each chamber as thence the strangers rode,Yet still in royal splendor the king at home abodeWith many a noble warrior and vassal of his court,Whom you might see to Kriemhild day by day resort.
LVII
And now the noble Siegfried leave to take was fain.What he so deeply yearn'd for he little hop'd to gain.It was told King Gunther that he would hence away.'Twas Giselher the youthful that won the chief to stay.
LVIII
"Why would you leave us, Siegfried, noble friend and true?Tarry here among us (what I entreat you, do)With Gunther and his liegemen, warriors frank and free.Here are store of lovely ladies, whom you may gladly see."
LIX
Then spake the valiant Siegfried, "Lead in the steeds again;Forthwith to ride I purpos'd, but now will here remain;And back, too, bear the bucklers; indeed I homeward yearn'd,But Giselher with honor my fix'd intent has turn'd."
LX
So stay'd the bold Sir Siegfried for love and friendship's sake;Nor surely could he elsewhere so gladly tarriance makeAs at the court of Gunther, for there throughout his stayThe love-devoted warrior saw Kriemhild every day.
LXI
Through her unmeasur'd beauty Sir Siegfried linger'd there;His friends with many a pastime charm'd from him every care,Save longing love for Kriemhild; this mov'd him oft to sigh,This too thereafter brought him most miserably to die.
I
Beyond the Rhine high tidings again were nois'd around.There many a maid was dwelling for beauty wide renown'd,And one of these King Gunther, 'twas said, design'd to woo:Well pleas'd the monarch's purpose his knights and liegemen true.
II
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 love to him she offer'd who could pass her at the spear.
III
She threw the stone, and bounded behind it to the mark;At three games each suitor with sinews stiff and starkMust conquer the fierce maiden whom he sought to wed,Or, if in one successless, straight must lose his head.
IV
E'en thus for the stern virgin had many a suitor died.This heard a noble warrior who dwelt the Rhine beside,And forthwith resolv'd he to win her for his wife.Thereby full many a hero thereafter lost his life.
V
Once on a day together sat with his men the king,Talking each with the other, and deeply pondering,What maiden 'twas most fitting for their lord to woo,One who him might comfort, and grace the country too.
VI
Then spake the lord of Rhineland: "Straight will I hence to sea,And seek the fiery Brunhild howe'er it go with me.For love of the stern maiden I'll frankly risk my life;Ready am I to lose it, if I win her not to wife."
VII
"That would I fain dissuade you," Sir Siegfried made reply,"Whoe'er would woo fair Brunhild, plays a stake too high;So cruel is her custom, and she so fierce a foe.Take good advice, King Gunther, nor on such a journey go."
VIII
Then answer'd thus King Gunther: "Ne'er yet was woman bornSo bold and eke so stalwart, but I should think it scornWere not this hand sufficient to force a female foe.""Be still," replied Sir Siegfried, "her strength you little know.
IX
"E'en were you four together, nought could all four devise'Gainst her remorseless fury; hear then what I adviseFrom true and steadfast friendship, and, as you value life,Tempt not for love of Brunhild a vain, a hopeless strife."
X
"How strong she be soever, the journey will I take,Whatever chance befall me, for lovely Brunhild's sake;For her unmeasur'd beauty I'll hazard all that's mine.Who knows, but God may bring her to follow me to the Rhine?"
XI
"Since you're resolv'd," said Hagan, "this would I chief advise;Request of noble Siegfried in this dread enterpriseTo take his part among us; thus 'twould be best, I ween,For none so well as Siegfried knows this redoubted queen."
XII
Said Gunther, "Wilt thou help me, Siegfried tried and true?To win the lovely maiden? What I entreat thee, do,And if I only gain her to my wedded wife,For thee I'll gladly venture honor, limb and life."
XIII
Thereto answer'd Siegfried, Siegmund's matchless son,"Give me but thy sister, and the thing is done.The stately queen fair Kriemhild let me only gain,I ask no other guerdon for whatever toil and pain."
XIV
"I promise it," said Gunther, "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,And may you both together long time and happy live."
XV
Then each they swore to th' other, the high-born champions bold,Which wrought them toil and trouble thereafter manifold,Ere to full completion they brought their high design,And led at last the lady to the banks of Rhine.
XVI
I have heard strange stories of wild dwarfs, how they fare;They dwell in hollow mountains, and for protection wearA vesture that high cloud-cloak, marvellous to tell;Whoever has it on him may keep him safe and well.
XVII
From cuts and stabs of foemen; him none can hear or seeAs soon as he is in it, but see and hear can heWhatever he will around him, and thus must needs prevail;He grows besides far stronger; so goes the wond'rous tale.
XVIII
And now with him the cloud-cloak took fair Sieglind's son;The same th' unconquer'd warrior with labor hard had wonFrom the stout dwarf Albric in successful fray.The bold and wealthy champions made ready for the way.
XIX
So, as I said, bold Siegfried the cloud-cloak 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 laid.By trains and close devices he woo'd the haughty maid.
XX
Besides, in that strange cloud-cloak was such deep virtue found,That whosoever wore it, though thousands stood around,Might do whatever pleas'd him unseen of friend or foe.Thus Siegfried won fair Brunhild, which brought him bitterest woe.
XXI
"Before we start, bold Siegfried, tell me what best would be;Shall we lead an army across the sounding sea,And travel thus to Brunhild as fits a royal king?Straight could we together thirty thousand warriors bring."
XXII
"Whatever our band," said 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;But I'll advise you better, high and noble knight.
XXIII
"As simple knights we'll travel a-down the Rhine'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 befall.
XXIV
"I will be one companion, thou shalt 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 thousand champions will dare us four to fight."
XXV
"Fain would I learn," said Gunther, "ere we hence departOn 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."
XXVI
"Garments the best and richest that ever warriors woreRobe 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."
XXVII
Then answer'd good King Gunther, "I'll to my mother dear,That she and her fair maidens ere we for Issland steer,May furnish us with raiment in full and copious store,Which we may wear with honor the stately queen before."
XXVIII
Hagan, the Knight of Trony, then spake in courtly wise,"Why would you ask your mother such service to devise?If only your fair sister our purpose understood,She's in all arts so skilful, the clothes would needs be good."
XXIX
Then sent he to his sister, that he'd to her repair,And with him only Siegfried; ere they could thither fare,Kriemhild in choicest vesture her beauty had array'd;Little did their coming displease the gentle maid.
XXX
And deck'd too were her women as them best became.Now were at hand the princess; straight the queenly dame,As she beheld them coming, rose stately from her seat,And went the noble stranger and her brother, too, to greet.
XXXI
"Welcome to my brother and to his comrade dear,"Said the graceful maiden, "your news I fain would hear.Tell me what brings you hither, what deeds are now to do;Let me know how fares it, noble knights, with you."
XXXII
Then spake the royal Gunther, "Dame, I will tell my care.We must with lofty courage a proud adventure dare.We would hence a-wooing far over seas away;For such a journey need we apparel rich and gay."
XXXIII
"Now sit thee down, dear brother, and tell me frank and free,"Said the royal maiden, "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.
XXXIV
Anon she both led thither where before she satOn rich embroider'd cushions (I can vouch for that),O'erwrought with goodly figures well rais'd in glitt'ring gold.There they with the fair lady might gentle converse hold.
XXXV
Many a glance of rapture, many a longing look,As there talk'd the lovers, either gave and took.He in his heart enshrin'd her; she was to him as life.Thereafter lovely Kriemhild became bold Siegfried's wife.
XXXVI
Then said to her King Gunther, "Right noble sister mine,What I wish can never be but with help of thine.We'll to the land of Brunhild to take our pastime there,And must before the lady princely apparel wear."
XXXVII
Then spake the queen in answer, "Right loving brother mine,If ought I can will profit whatever end of thine,Depend on me to do it; thou'lt find me ready still.If any aught denied thee, 'twould please thy Kriemhild ill.
XXXVIII
"Noble knight, thou should'st not, as doubting, ask and pray,But, as my lord and master, command, and I'll obey.Thou'lt find me, whatsoever thou hast in heart to do,Not more a loving sister than a servant true."
XXXIX
"Dearest sister 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,For sure my purpos'd journey never will I forego."
XL
Then spoke the noble virgin, "Mark now what I say;I've silk myself in plenty; on shields, as best you may,Precious stones bid bring us to work the clothes withal.Gunther and eke Siegfried bade bring them at her call.
XLI
"And who are the companions," ask'd the royal maid,"Who you to court will follow thus gorgeously array'd?""We're four in all," he answer'd; "two of my men beside,Dankwart and Hagan, with us to court will ride.
XLII
"And, dame, mark well, I pray thee, what I have yet to say.Let each be well provided three changes every day,And for four days successive, and all be of the best;So back shall I wend homeward no scorn'd, dishonor'd guest."
XLIII
So with kind dismissal away the warriors strode.Then quick the fair queen summon'd from bowers where they abodeThirty maids, her brother's purpose to fulfil,Who in works of the needle were the chief for craft and skill.
XLIV
Silks from far 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.
XLV
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.
XLVI
From the land of Morocco and from the Libyan coastThe best silk and the finest e'er worn and valued mostBy kin of mightiest princes, of such had they good store.Well Kriemhild show'd the favor that she the wearers bore.
XLVII
E'er since the chiefs were purpos'd the martial queen to win,In their sight was precious the goodly ermelinWith coal-black spots besprinkled on whiter ground than snow,E'en now the pride of warriors at every festal show.
XLVIII
Many a stone full precious gleam'd from Arabian gold;That the women were not idle, scarcely need be told.Within seven weeks, now ready was the vesture bright,Ready too the weapons of each death-daring knight.
XLIX
Now when all was ready, by the Rhine you might markBuilt with skill and labor a stout though little bark,Wherein a-down the river to sea they were to go.To the noble maidens their toil brought mickle woe.
L
When now 'twas 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 Rhine.
LI
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 women when found was nothing wrong.
LII
Whomever met the warriors, all could not but admire;In all the world not any had seen such fair attire;At Brunhild's court 'twould surely become the wearers well.Of better knightly garments not a tongue could tell.
LIII
Much thank'd was each fair seamstress for her successful toil.Meanwhile, on point of parting for a far and dangerous soil,The warriors would of Kriemhild take leave in knightly wise,Whereat moist clouds of sorrow bedimm'd her sunbright eyes.
LIV
Said she, "Why thus, dear brother, to foreign regions run?Stay here and woo another; that were far better done,Than on so dire a venture to set your fame and life.You'll find among our neighbors a fairer, nobler wife."
LV
Their hearts, I ween, foreboded what thence was to befall.How spake they ever boldly, sore wept they one and all.Their tears the gold o'ermoisten'd that on their breasts they wore;So thick they from their eyelids stream'd down upon the floor.