LVI
"To you," said she, "Sir Siegfried, at least may I resign,To your faith, to your honor, this brother dear of mine,That no mischance beset him in Brunhild's fatal land."Straight promis'd he the maiden, and clasp'd her clay-cold hand.
LVII
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 a-pay'd;Take that for sure and certain." Low bow'd the thankful maid.
LVIII
Their golden-color'd bucklers were borne down to the strand,With all their costly vesture, and softly led in handWere their high-mettled chargers; they now would straight depart.Then many an eye was weeping, and throbbing many a heart.
LIX
Fair maids stood at the windows as they hoisted sail;The bark rock'd, and the canvas flapp'd with the fresh'ning gale.So on the Rhine were seated the comrades frank and free;Then said good King Gunther, "Who shall our steersman be?"
LX
"I will," said noble Siegfried; "well all our course I know,Well the tides and currents how they shift and flow.Trust me, good knight, to pilot you and your company."So from Worms and Rhineland they parted joyously.
LXI
With that straight seiz'd Sir Siegfried a pole that lay at hand,And with strong effort straining 'gan push off from the strand;Gunther himself as ready took in hand an oar;So fell off the vessel and parted from the shore.
LXII
They had on board rich viands, thereto good store of wine,The best that could be met with e'en on the banks of Rhine.Their steeds in easy quarters stood tractable and still;The level bark ran smoothly; nothing with them went ill.
LXIII
Their sail swell'd to the breezes, the ropes were stretch'd and tight;Miles they ran full twenty ere the fall of night.With a fair wind to seaward down dropp'd the gallant crew.Their dames had cause long after their high emprise to rue.
LXIV
By the twelfth bright morning, as we have heard it told,The winds the bark had wafted with the warriors boldTowards Isenstein, a fortress in the martial maiden's land;'Twas only known to Siegfried of all th' adventurous band.
LXV
Soon as saw King Gunther, wondering as well he might,The far-stretch'd coast, and castles frowning from every height,"Look! friend," said he, "Sir Siegfried, if thou know'st, declare,Whose are all these fair castles, and all this land as fair.
LXVI
"In all my life, assure thee, the simple truth to tell,I never met with castles plann'd and built so well,Anywhere soever, as here before us stand.He must needs be mighty who took such work in hand."
LXVII
Thereto made answer Siegfried: "Well what you ask I know.Brunhild's are all these castles, this land, so fair a show,And Isenstein this fortress; 'tis true what now I say.Here will you meet, Sir Gunther, many a fair dame to-day.
LXVIII
"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 queen.
LXIX
"When we behold the fair one and all her train around,Let but this single story in all your mouths be found.That Gunther is my master, and I am but his man;To give him all his longing you'll find no surer plan.
LXX
"'Tis not so much for thy sake, I own, such part I bear,As for thy sister Kriemhild's, the fairest of the fair.She to me is ever as my own soul and life.Fain do I such low service to win her for my wife."
LXXI
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 Siegfried's counsel, and sure it brought them goodSoon after, when King Gunther before Queen Brunhild stood.
I
Meanwhile the bark had drifted unto the shore so highBeneath the high-tower'd castle, that the king could spyMany a maiden standing at every window there;That all to him were strangers, was what he ill could bear.
II
Forthwith he ask'd of Siegfried, his valiant friend and true,"Know you ought of these maidens, whom here we have in viewDown upon us looking, though not, methinks, in scorn?Whoe'er their lord they're surely high-minded and high-born."
III
Him answer'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 Gunther the hardy knight and bold.
IV
"One see I at a window stand in a snow-white vest;Around her all are lovely, but she's far loveliest.Her have mine eyes selected; Sir Siegfried, on my life,If I can only gain her, that maid shall be my wife."
V
"In all this world of beauty thine eyes have chosen well;That maid's the noble Brunhild, at once so fair and fell,She, who thy heart bewilders, she, who enchants thy sight."Her every act and gesture to Gunther was delight.
VI
Then bade the queen her maidens from the windows go;Them it ill befitted to stand a sight and showFor the rude eyes of strangers; they bow'd to her behest,But what next did the ladies, we since have heard confest.
VII
They rob'd them in their richest to meet the strangers' gaze;Such, ever since were women, were ever women's ways.Through every chink and loophole was levelled many an eyeAt the unweeting champions, through love to peep and pry.
VIII
There were but four together who came into the land.The far-renowned Siegfried led a horse in hand.This Brunhild at a window mark'd with heedful eye.As lord of such a liegeman was Gunther valued high.
IX
Then humbly by the bridle he held the monarch's steed,Huge of limb and puissant and of the purest breed,Till in the royal saddle King Gunther proudly sat;So serv'd him noble Siegfried, which he too soon forgat.
X
Then his own the warrior led from ship to shore;He of a truth such service hath seldom done before,As to stand at the stirrup, when another mounted steed.Of all, close at the windows, the women took good heed.
XI
To look upon these champions was sure a glorious sight;Their horses and their garments were both of snowy white,And both match'd well together; each bore a polished shield,Which, still as it was shaken, flash'd around the field.
XII
So forward rode they lordly to Brunhild's gorgeous hall:Rich stones beset their saddles, their pöitrals, light and small,Had golden bells down-hanging that tinkled as they went.On mov'd the proud companions led by their bold intent.
XIII
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 was each one, and thereto broad of blade.All this was mark'd by Brunhild, the chief-defying maid.
XIV
With them together Dankwart and Hagan came ashore'Tis told us in old stories that these two warriors woreApparel of the richest, but raven-black of hue;Ponderous were their bucklers, broad and bright and new.
XV
Stones from the land of India display'd each gorgeous guest,That ever gleam'd and glittered in the flutt'ring vest.They left their bark unguarded beside the dashing wave,And straight on to the fortress rode the champions brave.
XVI
Six and eighty turrets saw they there in all,Three palaces wide-stretching, and the fairest hallOf the purest marble (never was grass so green),Where with her fair damsels sat the fairer queen.
XVII
Unlock'd was straight the castle, the gates flew open wide;Up in haste to meet them Brunhild's liegemen hied,And bade the strangers welcome to their lady's land,And took his horse from each one and the shield from every hand.
XVIII
A chamberlain then bespoke them: "Be pleas'd to give us nowYour swords and glitt'ring breastplates." "That can we ne'er allow,"Hagan of Trony answer'd, "our arms ourselves will bear."The custom of the castle then Siegfried 'gan declare.
XIX
"'Tis the use of this castle, as I can well attest,That never warlike weapons should there be borne by guest.'Twere best to keep the custom; let th' arms aside be laid."Hagan, Gunther's liegeman, unwillingly obey'd.
XX
Wine to the guests they offer'd, and goodly welcome gave;Then might you see apparel'd in princely raiment braveMany a stately warrior, on to court that pass'd,And many a glance of wonder upon the strangers cast.
XXI
Meanwhile to fair Queen Brunhild one came and made report,That certain foreign warriors had come unto her courtIn sumptuous apparel, wafted upon the flood.Then thus began to question the maiden fair and good:
XXII
"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 standing in rich array,And on what hard adventure have they hither found their way?"
XXIII
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; this is what I advise.
XXIV
"The next of the companions, he of the lofty mien,If his power match his person, is some great king, I ween,And rules with mighty sceptre broad and princely lands.See, how among his comrades so lordly there he stands!
XXV
"The third of the companions—a low'ring brow has he,And yet, fair queen, you rarely a manlier form may see.Note but his fiery glances, how quick around they dart!Firm is, I ween, his courage, and pitiless his heart.
XXVI
"The fourth knight is the youngest, he with the downy cheek,So maidenly in manner, so modest and so meek.How gentle all his bearing! how soft his lovely cheer!Yet we all should rue it, should wrong be done him here.
XXVII
"How mild soe'er his manner, how fair soe'er his frame,Cause would he give for weeping to many a high-born dame,Were he once stirr'd to anger; sure he's a warrior grim,Train'd in all knightly practice, bold of heart and strong of limb."
XXVIII
Then spake the royal Brunhild, "Bring me my vesture straight,If far-renowned Siegfried 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."
XXIX
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 richly dight;For the noble strangers, I trow, a goodly sight.
XXX
With them of Brunhild's warriors advanc'd a chosen band,Better than five hundred, each bearing sword in hand,The very flower of Issland; 'twas a fair yet fearful scene.The strangers rose undaunted as near them came the queen.
XXXI
Soon as the noble Siegfried met the fair Brunhild's sight,In her modest manner she thus bespoke the knight."You're welcome, good Sir Siegfried; now, if it please you, showWhat cause has brought you hither; that I would gladly know."
XXXII
"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.
XXXIII
"On the Rhine is his kingdom; what should I further say?Through love of thee, fair lady, we've sail'd this weary way.He is resolv'd to woo thee whatever thence betide;So now betimes bethink thee; he'll ne'er renounce his bride.
XXXIV
"The monarch's name is Gunther, a rich and mighty king;This will alone content him, thee to the Rhine to bring.For thee above the billows with him I've hither run;Had he not been my master, this would I ne'er have done."
XXXV
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 you all shall die."
XXXVI
Then spake the Knight of Trony, "Come, lady, let us seeThe games that you propose us; ere you the conqueress be,Of my good lord King Gunther, hard must you toil, I ween.He trusts with full assurance to win so fair a queen."
XXXVII
"He must 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 warrioress made answer, "ere life and fame be lost."
XXXVIII
Siegfried in a moment to the monarch went;To the queen he bade him tell his whole intent."Never fear the future, cast all cares away;My trains shall keep you harmless, do Brunhild what she may."
XXXIX
Then spake the royal Gunther, "Fair queen, all queens before,Now say what you command us, and, were it yet e'en more,For the sake of your beauty, be sure, I'd all abide.My head I'll lose, and willing, if you be not my bride."
XL
These words of good King Gunther when heard the royal dame,She bade bring on the contest as her well became.Straight call'd she for her harness, wherewith she fought in field,And her golden breastplate, and her mighty shield.
XLI
Then a silken surcoat on the stern maiden drew,Which in all her battles steel had cut never through,Of stuff from furthest Lybia; fair on her limbs it lay;With richest lace 'twas border'd, that cast a gleaming ray.
XLII
Meanwhile upon the strangers her threatening eyes were bent;Hagan there stood with Dankwart in anxious discontent,How it might fall their master in silence pondering still.Thought they, "This fatal journey will bring us all to ill."
XLIII
The while, ere yet observer his absence could remark,Sudden the nimble Siegfried stepp'd to the little bark,Where from a secret corner his cloud-cloak forth he took.And slipp'd into it deftly while none was there to look.
XLIV
Back in haste return'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 mov'd among the crowd,Himself unseen, all-seeing, such power was in his shroud!
XLV
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 fair,To judge with truth the contest which they should note with care.
XLVI
There too was come fair Brunhild; arm'd might you see her stand,As though resolv'd to champion all kings for all their land.She bore on her silk surcoat gold spangles light and thin,That quivering gave sweet glimpses of her fair snowy skin.
XLVII
Then came on her followers, and forward to the fieldOf 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.
XLVIII
As thong to that huge buckler a gorgeous band there lay;Precious stones 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.
XLIX
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 chamberlains, that bore it, stagger'd beneath the load.
L
Grimly smil'd Sir Hagan, Trony's 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 love of yours and lady—'faith she's the devil's wife."
LI
Hear yet more of the vesture worn by the haughty dame;From Azagouc resplendent her silken surcoat cameOf all-surpassing richness, that from about her shoneThe eye-bedimming lustre of many a precious stone.
LII
Then to the maid was carried heavily and slowA strong well-sharpen'd jav'lin, which she ever us'd to throw,Huge and of weight enormous, fit for so strong a queen,Cutting deep and deadly with its edges keen.
LIII
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 Burgundian king.
LIV
To himself thus thought he, "What have I not to fear?The devil himself could scarcely 'scape from such danger clear.In sooth, if I were only in safety by the Rhine,Long might remain this maiden free from all suit of mine."
LV
So thinking luckless Gunther his love repented sore;Forthwith to him only his weapons pages bore,And now stood clad the monarch in arms of mighty cost.Hagan through sheer vexation, his wits had nearly lost.
LVI
On this Hagan's brother undaunted Dankwart spake,"Would we had ne'er sail'd hither for this fell maiden's sake!Once we pass'd for warriors; sure we have cause to rue,Ingloriously thus dying, and by a woman too;
LVII
"Full 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,For all their overweening, would hold their heads less high.
LVIII
"Ay, by my faith, no longer should their pride be borne;Had I oaths a thousand to peace and friendship sworn,Ere I'd see thus before me my dearest master die,Fair as she is, this maiden a dreary corse should lie."
LIX
"Ay," said his brother Hagan, "we well could quit this landAs free as we came hither, were but our arms at hand.Each with his breast in harness, his good sword by his side,Sure we should lower a little this gentle lady's pride."
LX
Well heard the noble maiden the warrior's words the while,And looking o'er her shoulder said with a scornful smile,"As he thinks himself so mighty, I'll not deny a guest;Take they their arms and armor, and do as seems them best."
LXI
"Be they naked and defenceless, or sheath'd in armor sheen,To me it nothing matters," said the haughty queen."Fear'd yet I never mortal, and, spite of yon stern browAnd all the strength of Gunther, I fear as little now."
LXII
Soon as their swords were giv'n them, and arm'd was either knight,The cheek of dauntless Dankwart redden'd with delight."Now let them sport as likes them, nothing," said he, "care I;Safe is noble Gunther with us in armor by."
LXIII
Then was the strength of Brunhild to each beholder shown.Into the ring by th' effort of panting knights a stoneWas borne of weight enormous, massy and large and round.It strain'd twelve brawny champions to heave it to the ground.
LXIV
This would she cast at all times when she had hurl'd the spear;The sight of bold Burgundians fill'd with care and fear.Quoth Hagan, "She's a darling to lie by Gunther's side.Better the foul fiend take her to serve him as a bride."
LXV
Her sleeve back turn'd the maiden, and bar'd her arm of snow,Her heavy shield she handled, and brandished to and froHigh o'er her head the jav'lin; thus began the strife.Bold as they were, the strangers each trembled for his life;
LXVI
And had not then to help him come Siegfried to his side,At once by that grim maiden had good King Gunther died.Unseen up went he to him, unseen he touch'd his hand.His trains bewilder'd Gunther was slow to understand.
LXVII
"Who was it just now touch'd me?" thought he and star'd aroundTo see who could be near him; not a soul he found.Said th' other, "I am Siegfried, thy trusty friend and true;Be not in fear a moment for all the queen can do."
LXVIII
Said he, "Off with the buckler and give it me to bear;Now, what I shall advise thee, mark with thy closest care.Be it thine to make the gestures, and mine the work to do."Glad man was then King Gunther, when he his helpmate knew.
LXIX
"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 sternly in the ring!"
LXX
With all her strength the jav'lin the forceful 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.
LXXI
Right through the groaning buckler the spear tempestuous broke;Fire from the mail-links sparkled beneath the thund'ring stroke.Those two mighty champions stagger'd from side to side;But for the wondrous cloud-cloak both on the spot had died.
LXXII
From the mouth of Siegfried burst the gushing blood;Soon he again sprung forward; straight snatch'd the hero goodThe spear that through his buckler she just had hurl'd amain,And sent it at its mistress in thunder back again.
LXXIII
Thought he "'Twere sure a pity so fair a maid to slay;"So he revers'd the jav'lin, and turn'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.
LXXIV
From her mail fire sparkled as driven before the blast;With such huge strength the jav'lin by Sieglind's son was cast,That 'gainst the furious impulse she could no longer stand.A stroke so sturdy never could come from Gunther's hand.
LXXV
Up in a trice she started, and straight her silence broke,"Noble knight, Sir Gunther, thank thee for the stroke."She thought 'twas Gunther's manhood had laid her on the lea;No! 'twas not he had fell'd her, but a mightier far than he.
LXXVI
Then turn'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 far before her flung,Then bounded quick behind it, that loud her armor rung.
LXXVII
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.
LXXVIII
Bold, tall and strong was Siegfried, the first all knights among;He threw the stone far further, behind it further sprung.His wondrous arts had made him so more than mortal strong,That with him as he bounded, he bore the king along.
LXXIX
The leap was seen of all men, there lay as plain the stone,But seen was no one near it, save Gunther all alone.Brunhild was red with anger, quick came her panting breathSiegfried had rescued Gunther that day from certain death.
LXXX
Then all aloud fair Brunhild bespake her courtier band,Seeing in the ring at distance unharm'd her wooer stand,"Hither, my men and kinsmen: low to my better bow;I am no more your mistress; you're Gunther's liegemen now."
LXXXI
Down cast the noble warriors their weapons hastily,And lowly kneel'd to Gunther the King of Burgundy.To him as to their sovran was kingly homage done,Whose manhood, as they fancied, the mighty match had won.
LXXXII
He fair the chiefs saluted bending with gracious look;Then by the hand the maiden her conquering suitor took,And granted him to govern the land with sovran sway;Whereat the warlike nobles were joyous all and gay.
LXXXIII
Forthwith the noble Gunther she begg'd with her to goInto her royal palace; soon as 'twas ordered so,To his knights her servants such friendly court 'gan make,That Hagan e'en and Dankwart could it but kindly take.
LXXXIV
Wise was the nimble Siegfried; he left them there a space,And slily took the cloud-cloak back to its hiding-place,Return'd then in an instant, where sat the ladies fair,And straight, his fraud to cover, bespoke King Gunther there.
LXXXV
"Why dally, gracious master? why not the games begin,Which 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.
LXXXVI
"Why how can this have happened," said the o'ermaster'd queen,"That, as it seems, Sir Siegfried, the games you have not seen,Which 'gainst me good King Gunther has gain'd with wondrous might?"The word then up took Hagan, the stern Burgundian knight;
LXXXVII
"Our minds indeed you troubled, our hopes o'er-clouded dark;Meanwhile the good Knight Siegfried was busy at the bark,While the Lord of Rhineland the game against you won;Thus," said King Gunther's liegeman, "he knows not what was done."
LXXXVIII
"Well pleas'd am I," said Siegfried, "that one so proud and boldAt 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 Rhine."
LXXXIX
Thereto replied the damsel, "It cannot yet be so;First must my men and kinsmen th' intended journey know;To bring my friends together, besides, 't were surely fit.T' were wrong, methinks, so lightly my lands and all to quit."
XC
So messengers in hurry through all the country went;To liegemen, and to kinsmen, and all her friends she sent.To Isenstein she begg'd them to come without delay.And bade give all in plenty rich gifts and garments gay.
XCI
Daily to Brunhild's castle early they rode and late,In troops from all sides flocking, and all in martial state."Ay! ay!" said frowning Hagan, "ill have we done, I fear;Surely 't will be our ruin to wait this gathering here.
XCII
"Let her strength be only here together brought(And of the queen's intentions we little know or naught),If so her passion wills it, we're lost at once, I trow.In sooth this dainty damsel was born to work us woe."
XCIII
Then spoke the valiant Siegfried, "I'll undertake for all;Trust me, what now you look for, that shall ne'er befall.Safe and sound to keep you, I'll hither bring a crewOf fierce, selected champions, of whom ye never knew.
XCIV
"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,"
XCV
"Be sure then not to linger," the anxious Gunther said,"For we meanwhile shall ever be longing for your aid.""In a few days you'll see me at hand for your defence,And tell," said he, "fair Brunhild, that you have sent me hence."
I
Thence in his cloud-cloak Siegfried descended to the strand;There he found a shallop, that close lay to the land;Unseen the bark he boarded, that from the harbor pass'dMoved by the son of Siegmund, as though before the blast.
II
The steersman could see no man; yet the vessel flewBeneath the strokes of Siegfried the yielding water through.'T was a tempest thought they, that drove it furious on.No! 't was the strength of Siegfried, fair Sieglind's peerless son.
III
All that day they were running, and all the night the same,Then to a famous country of mighty power they came,Days' journey full a hundred stretching far away,The Nibelungers' country, where his hard-won treasure lay.
IV
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 travellers will.
V
All found he barr'd and bolted as near the walls he drew;Men both life and honor kept then as now they do.The stranger all impatient began a thundering dinAt the well fasten'd portal. There found he close within
VI
A huge earth-shaking giant, the castle set to guard,Who with his weapons by him kept ever watch and ward."Who beats the gate so stoutly?" the yawning monster ask'd;His voice, as he gave answer, the crafty hero mask'd,
VII
And said, "I am a warrior; open me the gate;I'm wroth with lazy losels who make their betters wait,While they on down are snoring as if they'd never wake."It irk'd the burly porter that thus the stranger spake.
VIII
Now had the fearless giant all his weapons donn'd,Bound on his head his helmet, and in his monstrous hondA shield unmeasur'd taken; open the gate he threw,And his teeth grimly gnashing at Siegfried fiercely flew.
IX
"How could he dare to call up men of mettle so?"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,
X
And his firm shield-band shatter'd; scarce could the warrior stand,He fear'd, though for a moment, grim death was close at hand,With his enormous weapon the porter smote so sore,Yet for his dauntless bearing he lov'd him all the more.
XI
With the mighty conflict the castle rung around;To th' hall of the Nibelungers reach'd the stunning sound.At length the vanquish'd porter he bound with conquering hand.Far and wide flew the tidings through the Nibelungers' land.
XII
While in the dubious combat they both were struggling still,Albric the wild dwarf heard it far through the hollow hill.Straight he donn'd his armor, and thither running foundThe noble guest victorious, and the panting giant bound.
XIII
A stout dwarf was Albric, and bold as well as stout;With helm and mail securely he was arm'd throughout;A golden scourge full heavy in his hand he swung.Straight ran he to the rescue, and fierce on Siegfried sprung.
XIV
Seven ponderous knobs from th' handle hung, each one by its thong;With these the dwarf 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.
XV
Away he threw his buckler broken all and smash'd;His long well-temper'd weapon into its sheath he dash'd,To spare his own dependents his virtue mov'd him still,And to his heart sore went it his chamberlain to kill.
XVI
With mighty hands undaunted in on the dwarf he ran;By the beard he caught him, that age-hoary man,He dragg'd him, and he shook him, his rage on him he wreak'd,And handled him so roughly, that loud for pain he shriek'd.
XVII
Loud cries the dwarf o'ermaster'd, "Spare me and leave me free,And could I ever servant save to one hero be,To whom I've sworn allegiance as long as I have breath,"Said the crafty Albric, "you would I serve to death."
XVIII
Then bound was writhing Albric as the giant just before;The nervous grasp of Siegfried pinch'd him and pain'd him sore.Then thus the dwarf address'd him; "Be pleas'd your name to tell."Said he, "My name is Siegfried; I thought you knew me well."
XIX
"Well's me for these good tidings," Albric the dwarf 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."
XX
Then said the noble Siegfried: "You 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 evil shall befall you, if this you truly do."
XXI
The dwarf and eke the giant the champion straight unbound;Then ran at once swift Albric where he the warriors found.The slumbering Nibelungers he wak'd with eager care,Saying, "Up, up, ye heroes! ye must to Siegfried fare."
XXII
Up from their beds they started, and instant ready made,Nimble knights a thousand richly all array'd.So flock'd they quick, where waiting they saw Sir Siegfried stand;Then was there goodly greeting with word of mouth and clasp of hand.
XXIII
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 said, "You hence must instant far o'er the wave with me."He found them for th' adventure as ready as could be.
XXIV
Full thirty hundred warriors were come at his request;From these he chose a thousand the bravest and the best.Helmets and other armor were brought for all the band,For he resolv'd to lead them e'en to Queen Brunhild's land.
XXV
He said, "Good knights adventurous, to my words give 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 us in our choicest and our best."
XXVI
"How?" said a beardless novice, "that sure can never be.How can be lodg'd together so many knights as we?Where could they find them victual? where could they find them vests?Never could thirty kingdoms keep such a crowd of guests."
XXVII
You've heard of Siegfried's riches; well could he all affordWith a kingdom to supply him, and Niblung's endless hoard.Rich gifts were in profusion to all his knights assign'd.Much as he drain'd the treasure, as much remain'd behind.
XXVIII
Early upon a morning in haste they parted thence.What prowest warriors Siegfried brought to his friend's defence!Their armor darted radiance, their horses toss'd the foam.Well equipp'd and knightly came they to Brunhild's home.
XXIX
At the windows standing look'd out the maidens gay.Then cried their royal mistress, "Can any of you say,What strangers there far-floating over the billows go?Their canvas they are spreading whiter far than snow."
XXX
Then spake the king of Rhineland, "They're men of mine, fair dame,Whom I left not distant, when late I hither came;Since, I have bid them join me, and now you see them here."The noble guests receiv'd them with good and friendly cheer.
XXXI
Then might they see bold Siegfried, array'd in robes of pride,Aboard a bark high standing, and many a chief beside.Then said the queen to Gunther, "Sir king, what now shall I?Greet the guests advancing, or that grace deny?"
XXXII
Said he, "To meet them, lady, forth from your palace go,That, if you're glad to see them, the same they well may know."Then did the queen, as Gunther had said him seem'd the best,And Siegfried in her greeting distinguish'd from the rest.
XXXIII
They found them fitting quarters, and took their arms in charge;The guests were now so many, that they were ill at large,Such troops of friends and strangers flock'd in on every side.So the bold Burgundians now would homeward ride.
XXXIV
Then said the fair Queen Brunhild, "Him for my friend I'd hold,Who'd help me to distribute my silver and my goldAmong my guests and Gunther's; no little store have I."Bold Giselher's bold liegeman Dankwart straight made reply:
XXXV
"Right noble queen and gracious, trust but your keys with me;Your wealth I'll so distribute, all shall contented be,And as to blame or damage, let that be mine alone."That he was free and liberal, that made he clearly shown.
XXXVI
Soon as Hagan's brother had the keys in hand,Gold began and silver to run away like sand.If one a mark requested, gifts had he shower'd so rife,That home might go the poorest merry and rich for life.
XXXVII
By th' hundred pounds together he gave uncounted out.Crowds in gorgeous vesture were stalking all about,Who ne'er had worn such splendor, and scarce so much as seen.They told the tale to Brunhild; it fretted sore the queen.
XXXVIII
Straight she spoke to Gunther, "Sir king, I've cause to grieve.Your treasurer, I fear me, scarce a rag will leaveOf all my choice apparel, my last gold piece he'll spend.Would somebody would stop it! I'd ever be his friend.
XXXIX
"He wastes so, he must fancy in his wayward willI've sent for death to fetch me, but wealth I can use still,And what my father left me can waste myself, I ween."Treasurer so free-handed never yet had queen.
XL
Then spake the knight of Trony, "Lady, you must be told,The king of Rhine has plenty of raiment and of gold,And can of both so lavish, that we may well dispenseWith all fair Brunhild's vesture, nor need bring any hence."
XLI
"Nay, for my love," said Brunhild, "with gold and silken vestsLet 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."
XLII
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, Giselher's thriftless man.Gunther thereat and Hagan both to laugh began.
XLIII
Then spake the martial maiden, "Whom shall I leave my lands?This first must here be settled by our united hands."The noble monarch answer'd, "Who most is in your grace,Him will we leave behind us to govern in our place."
XLIV
One of her near relations was standing by the maid;He was her mother's brother; to him she turn'd and said,"Take to your charge my castles, and with them all my land,Till I or else King Gunther give otherwise command."
XLV
She chose a thousand heroes from all her chivalryTo the Rhine's distand borders to bear her company,With the thousand champions from the Nibelungers' land.They bown'd them for their journey, and hastened to the strand.
XLVI
Six-and-eighty women, a hundred maidens tooShe took with her from Issland; fair 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!
XLVII
In manner as became her she left her native ground;She kiss'd her nearest kindred who weeping stood around.So with fair dismissal they came down to the shore.To her father's country the maid return'd no more.
XLVIII
With sound of all sweet music they floated on their way;From morn to eve was nothing but change of sport and play;The soft sea-breeze they wish'd for was fluttering in their sail;Yet for that voyage how many were yet to weep and wail!
XLIX
But still her lord deferring with maidenly delayBrunhild reserv'd one pleasure to the fair wedding-day,When home to Worms together the king and queenly dame,Full flown with mirth and rapture, with all their heroes came.
I
Nine days had now the travellers been faring 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;Your messengers already should to Burgundy have come."
II
To him replied King Gunther, "What you have said, is true,And none should be so ready this very task to do,As e'en yourself, friend Hagan; so ride unto my land;None, I am sure, can better proclaim that we're at hand."
III
Thereto gave answer Hagan, "Such duty suits not me;Let me tend the chambers, and linger still at sea;Or I'll stay with the women, and their wardrobe keep,Till to the Rhine we bring them safe from the blustering deep.
IV
"From Siegfried ask a journey of such a weary length,For he can well perform it with his surpassing strength,And, should he e'en refuse it, him to consent you'll move,If you but beseech him for your sister's love."
V
Straight sent he for the warrior; he came as soon as found;Said Gunther, "Now we're coming home to my native ground,Fain would I give quick notice by some sure friend of mineTo my sister and my mother that we approach the Rhine.
VI
"This I entreat you, Siegfried; now do what I desire,And I'll in full requite you, whatever you require."But ne'er consented Siegfried, the never-conquer'd man,Till in another fashion the king to ask began.
VII
Said he, "Nay, gentle Siegfried, do but this journey take,Not for my sake only, but for my sister's sake.You'll oblige fair Kriemhild in this as well as me."When so implor'd was Siegfried, ready at once was he.
VIII
"Whate'er you will, command me; let naught be left unsaid;I will gladly do it for the lovely maid.How can I refuse her who my heart has won?For her, whate'er your pleasure, tell it, and it is done."
IX
"Tell then my mother Uta, the rich and 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.
X
"From my gentle sister nothing conceal'd must be;Bear her the kindest greeting from Brunhild and from me.Proclaim to every liegeman and every anxious friend,That my heart's lingering longing I've brought to happy end.
XI
"And tell my loving nephew, the knight of Metz, Ortwine,That seats he bid in order be rais'd along the Rhine.And do my other kinsmen to wit, both most and least,That I will hold with Brunhild a gorgeous marriage-feast.
XII
"Fail not to tell my sister, that soon as she shall hearThat I, returning homeward, with all my guests are near,She well receive so kindly the lady of my heart,And love and service ever shall be her's on Gunther's part."
XIII
Leave then took Sir Siegfried of Gunther's haughty dame,And of her fair attendants, as him well became,And for the Rhine departed; never could there beIn all this world a better messenger than he.
XIV
With four-and-twenty warriors to Worms he hotly sped;King Gunther 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.
XV
Down sprang all from their horses; their thoughts were proud and high;Straight the good young King Giselher ran to them hastily,And Gernot his bold brother, soon spoke he, having eyedThe troop, and miss'd King Gunther from noble Siegfried's side,
XVI
"Welcome to Worms, Sir Siegfried; tell us what news you bring,What have you done with Gunther, our brother and our king?I fear me, we have lost him, fierce Brunhild was too strong;So has his lofty passion brought us but loss and wrong."
XVII
"Away with fear and sorrow! to you and all his kinMy comrade sends his greeting; a conqu'ror he has been,And safe and sound I left him; from him despatch'd I comeTo bring the gladsome tidings to all his friends at home.
XVIII
"You also must contrive it, for your's the task should be,How I may straight your mother and your fair sister see,To carry them the message that I receiv'd so lateFrom Gunther and from Brunhild; both are in best estate."
XIX
Young Giselher then answer'd; "Go straight to them and tellThe tale you're charg'd to carry; 'twill please my sister well.Fear for the fate of Gunther is heavy on her breast.I'll vouch, that with the maiden you'll prove a welcome guest."
XX
Then spake the noble Siegfried, "Whatever I can doTo serve her, she shall find me a willing friend and true.Who now will tell the ladies, that I an audience crave?"Giselher took the message, the high-born youth and brave.
XXI
To the lovely maiden and the stately dameSpoke the youthful warrior, when to their sight he came,"Siegfried is come with tidings for our hearing meant;Him my brother Gunther hither to the Rhine has sent.
XXII
"By him he's charged to tell us, how stands it with the king;Permit him then his message hither to court to bring;Whate'er befell in Issland from him you'll truly know."E'en thus the noble ladies still harbor'd fear and woe.
XXIII
Up for their robes they started, and each herself array'd,Then bade Sir Siegfried enter; he willingly obey'd,For much he long'd to see them; then, ere the warrior spoke,Silence the blushing Kriemhild with friendly accents broke.
XXIV
"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 unhappy maiden, that ever I was born!"
XXV
Then spake the warrior, "Give me the guerdon of good news;You weep for sake of weeping; so you fair ladies use.I left him safe and hearty; of this assure you well.He to you both has sent me the joyful tale to tell.
XXVI
"To you, as best beseems him, with gracious kind intentHe and his bride their service, right noble queen, have sent.And soon will both come hither, so dry your idle tears."For many a day such gladness had never bless'd her ears.
XXVII
Straight with her snow-white apron she wip'd her tears away,And dried her eyes from weeping; then, once more fresh and gayBegan to thank the envoy for his happy tale,That ended her deep sorrow and heart-consuming wail.
XXVIII
She bade the knight be seated; nothing loth was he;Then spake the lovely maiden; "'Twere no small joy for me,Could I with gold reward you for what you just have said;But you're for that too wealthy; take my good will instead."
XXIX
"Were I," replied the champion, "the lord of thirty landsStill would I take with pleasure a gift from your fair hands."Straight said the modest damsel, "Then you shall be content."So for the costly guerdon her treasurer she sent.
XXX
Four and twenty bracelets she gave him for his fee,Each set with stones full precious; yet so proud was he,That he would not keep them, but gave the jewels rareTo her lovely maidens, whom he found in waiting there.
XXXI
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, and, if you but attendTo what he asks so dearly, he'll ever be your friend.
XXXII
"His noble guests, he begs you, and his beauteous brideReceive with kindly welcome, and forth to meet them rideOn the strand before the city. To you has sent the kingThis true and gracious message, which I as truly bring."
XXXIII
"I'm ready at his bidding," the lovely maid replied,"Whatever I can to serve him shall never be denied,So heartily and truly his pleasure will I do."Then her love-kindled blushes glow'd a deeper hue.
XXXIV
Never prince's envoy a heartier welcome won;Had she dar'd to kiss him, fain would she so have done.In loving wise he parted from th' unwilling maid.Forthwith the bold Burgundians did as the warrior bade.
XXXV
Sindolt and Hunoldt and Rumolt the good knightEarly and late 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 servant flew.
XXXVI
Ortwine of Metz and Gary, King Gunther's liegemen bold,The marriage feast, that forthwith their master was to hold,Proclaim'd to friends and neighbors; against the festal dayEvery noble maiden prepar'd her best array.
XXXVII
Adorn'd was all the palace, and richly every wallBedeck'd to grace the strangers; King Gunther's spacious hallBy the skill was furbish'd of many a foreign man;With merriment and pastime the royal feast began.
XXXVIII
By every road advancing with ceaseless press and dinFlock'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-stor'd vests.
XXXIX
Sudden spread the tidings, that now one might espyBrunhild's friends advancing; straight rose a press and cry'Mong the Burgundian thousands, that waiting stood around.Ah! what men of valor on either side were found!
XL
Then spake the lovely Kriemhild, "My maidens fair and free,Who at this reception must bear your part with me,Let each her choice apparel search out from secret chest;The matrons too I'd counsel to prank them in their best."
XLI
Then forward came the warriors, and straight th' attendants toldTo bring forth sumptuous saddles o'erlaid with ruddy gold,Whereon might ride the ladies from Worms unto the Rhine.Never was better horse-gear beheld, nor work so fine.
XLII
What store of gold resplendent about the palfreys shone!From their gorgeous bridles gleam'd many a precious stone.Richly gilt side-saddles with trappings of bright hueWere brought forth for the ladies, who gladden'd at the view.
XLIII
Caparison'd all richly with silken housings rareWas led a gentle palfrey for every lady there.Each steed a silken pöitral (the silk was of the bestThat e'er was spun or fashion'd) had hanging at his breast.
XLIV
Six and eighty ladies, each a married dame,With hairy bounds in fillets to lovely Kriemhild came,Each radiant in her beauty, each in rich garb array'd;Thither too in full adornment came many a blooming maid.
XLV
Fifty and four, the fairest and of the best reportOf all, whose beauty honor'd the proud Burgundian court,Went forth with glittering laces above their flaxen hair.What Gunther had requested, all did with all their care.
XLVI
The best stuffs and the richest, that e'er were found, they boreTo meet the stranger heroes; every robe they woreWith care and skill was chosen to suit their lovely hue.He were a fool, who'd murmur at one of that fair crew.