I
When now the bold Burgundians had come into the land,He of Bern soon heard it, the aged Hildebrand;He told his lord the tidings; sore griev'd it the good knight;He begged him the stout strangers receive as best they might.
II
Straight to bring up the horses quick Wolfhart order gave;Then forward prick'd with Dietrich full many a champion brave.Thence to the field to greet them; as friends to friends they went.There had they pitch'd all ready full many a gorgeous tent.
III
Them riding thus at distance soon as Sir Hagan spied,Thus he his courteous counsel unto his lords applied."Now every one, ye warriors, down instant from his seat,And these, who'd bid you welcome, go forth yourselves to meet.
IV
"Well know I yon bright meiny, whom here we have at hand;They are the choicest warriors; of th' Amelungers' land.The Lord of Bern rides foremost; high-mettled chiefs are they,So scorn not what fair service they proffer you to-day."
V
Then down from horse alighted, as fitting was and right,With the redoubted Dietrich many a good squire and knight.All to the noble strangers went forward hastily,And courteously saluted the lords of Burgundy.
VI
Soon as discern'd Sir Dietrich how they to meet him came,Now you would hear full gladly what words that chief of fameSpoke to the sons of Uta; their journey griev'd him sore;The truth, he thought, Sir Rudeger had known and told before.
VII
"Welcome, ye lords, right welcome, Gunther and Gernot true,And Giselher and Hagan, the like to Folker too,And ever-ready Dankwart. Do you not understandThat Kriemhild still mourns deeply the Chief of Niblungland?"
VIII
"Why, she will weep forever," Sir Hagan made reply,"'Tis many a year, Sir Dietrich, since he was done to die.She now has got King Etzel; of love she cannot lack;Siegfried is dead and buried, and never can come back."
IX
"Just now let us, I prithee, leave Siegfried's wounds alone,"The Lord of Bern, Sir Dietrich, replied in earnest tone,"As long as lives Dame Kriemhild there's fear of mortal ill.Trust of the Nibelungers! watch and be wary still."
X
"Why watch, and why be wary?" the lofty king replied."Etzel sent us envoys (what should I ask beside?)To say, that with our visit he would be well content;And by them many a message my sister Kriemhild sent."
XI
"To my advice," said Hagan, "I pray you, now give ear.Entreat our friend Sir Dietrich and his good warriors here,Of their suspicious tidings the utmost scope to show,That we may come more fully Dame Kriemhild's mind to know."
XII
Then the three kings, retiring, to separate converse drew,Gunther and Gernot and good Sir Dietrich, too."Now tell us, we beseech thee, right noble Knight of Bern,How thou hast been able Queen Kriemhild's mind to learn."
XIII
The Lord of Bern thus answer'd, "What have I now to say?I hear the wife of Etzel every break of dayTo the great God of heaven sob out her dreary tale,And for the loss of Siegfried yet ever weep and wail."
XIV
"What's done can ne'er be undone," spoke out the minstrel bold,The death-defying Folker, "for all we've just been told.So to court let's onward, and manfully abideWhate'er may us stout champions among the Huns betide."
XV
So the bold Burgundians to court thence took their wayAfter their country's fashion in pomp and proud array.Many a stout knight of Hungary among the gazers cameTo look on Tronian Hagan, and mark his warrior frame.
XVI
Of him among the courtiers were rumors not a few,That he it was who Siegfried, the Netherlander, slew,The strongest of all champions, Dame Kriemhild's husband bold.Hence much was there among them of Hagan ask'd and told.
XVII
Well grown and well compacted was that redoubted guest;Long were his legs and sinewy, and deep and broad his chest.His hair, that once was sable, with gray was dash'd of late,And terrible his visage, and lordly was his gait.
XVIII
And now the bold Burgundians with shelter were supplied.The knights were lodg'd together, the rest were sunder'd wide.Through Kriemhild's hate to Gunther was plann'd this subtle train,That easier in their quarters the yeomen might be slain.
XIX
Dankwart was the marshal, Hagan's brother brave;The charge of the stout yeomen to him King Gunther gave,That all might well be tended, and each might have his fill.The Chief of the Burgundians bore all his train good will.
XX
Kriemhild the lovely with all her meiny went,Where she the Nibelungers receiv'd with false intent.She took her brother Giselher and took him by the hand.That seeing drew Sir Hagan more tight his helmet's band.
XXI
"Sure after such a welcome," thus Hagan sternly spake,"Methinks for men of action 'twere fitting, thought to take.Greeting kings and subjects in such a different guise!—I fear our journey hither will hardly pass for wise."
XXII
"To those who fain would see you," said Kriemhild, "welcome be;Look not for friendly greeting for your own sake from me.But tell me what you've brought me from Worms beyond the Rhine,That you so warm a welcome should find from me or mine."
XXIII
"Why these words, my lady?" said Hagan, "what's their drift?That all these knights from Rhineland should bring you each a gift?I knew you were so wealthy, and liv'd so royally,I need not bring you presents as far as Hungary.
XXIV
"Then with this one plain question your memory I must goad.The Nibelungers' treasure—where have you that bestow'd?That was my own possession as well you understand.'Twas that you should have brought me hither to Etzel's land."
XXV
"I' faith, my lady Kriemhild, 'tis now full many a daySince in my power the treasure of the Nibelungers lay.In the Rhine my lords bade sink it; I did their bidding fain,And in the Rhine, I warrant, till doomsday 'twill remain."
XXVI
Then thus the queen made answer, "That was just what I thought.Little of it, ay, little have you hither brought,Though 'twas my own, unquestion'd to keep or give away.I've had for it much sorrow and many a dreary day."
XXVII
"The devil a hoard I bring you," said Hagan, the stern knight;"I've quite enough to carry in my mailcoat brightAnd in my trusty buckler; my hand must wield the sword,My head support the helmet;—how could I bring your hoard?"
XXVIII
"Think not I stir this matter because for gold I care;To give have I such plenty, your gifts I well can spare.One murder and two robberies! I have been beggar'd thriceFor these to the last farthing poor I demand the price."
XXIX
Then the Queen of Hungary bespake the warriors all;"No weapons may be carried, ye knights, into the hall.I'll have them kept in safety, so give them up to me.""In truth," replied Sir Hagan, "that shall never be.
XXX
"I long not for the honor that a queen so great and fairMy shield and other armor should to my quarters bear.Not so my father taught me; ever of old said he,Let none but thou, son Hagan, thy armor-bearer be."
XXXI
"Oh! woe is me unhappy," burst Dame Kriemhild out,"My brethren here and Hagan, why should they shrink and doubt?Not trust me with their bucklers?—they have been warn'd, I see;If I but knew who did it, death should be his fee."
XXXII
Thereto, inflam'd with anger, return'd Sir Dietrich brave,"'Twas I that the warning to the noble princes gave,And to their liegeman Hagan, to whom such hate thou bear'st.Now up, she-fiend! be doing, and harm me if thou dar'st!"
XXXIII
Deep blush'd the wife of Etzel for anger and for shame;Much she fear'd Sir Dietrich, that vengeance-breathing dame;Nor word she spake, but, turning, with many a sharp, quick glanceEver as thence she parted glared on her foes askance.
XXXIV
Then two clasp'd hands as frankly as brother does with brother;The one was good Sir Dietrich, Sir Hagan was the other.Then spoke the lofty Berner with courteous words and true;"In sooth your coming hither right bitterly I rue,
XXXV
"Through that which with such malice the vengeful queen let fall."Straight answered he of Trony, "'Faith, there's a cure for all."Such words unto his fellow spoke either mighty man.King Etzel had observ'd them, and thus to ask began.
XXXVI
"Fain would I learn," said Etzel, "if any here can tell,Who is that champion yonder, whom Dietrich greets so well.He is a man of mettle as I can guess by sight;Whoever is his father, sure he's a peerless knight."
XXXVII
Then spake a man of Kriemhild's, "I'll tell you all I can.That knight was born at Trony, his sire was Aldrian.Though now he plays the courtier, he is a champion stern.That I've not lied unto you, Sir King, you soon may learn."
XXXVIII
"That he's so stern a champion, how can I ever see?"Of all the craft and cunning nothing yet knew he,Wherewith about her kinsmen the queen her toils had wound,That not a soul among them came back from Hunnish ground.
XXXIX
"Well knew I once good Aldrian; my man was he of yore.With me much praise and honor obtain'd he heretofore;'Twas I, a knight who dubb'd him, and gave him of my gold.I could not but befriend him for true was he and bold.
XL
"So all that touches Hagan, I've known for many a year.Of old two noble children my hostages were here,He and the Spaniard Walter; here each grew up to man.At last I sent home Hagan; Walter off with Hildgund ran."
XLI
So thought the king with pleasure on what had happ'd of yore.His former friend of Trony he gladly saw once more,Who with high deeds of knighthood in youth had serv'd his ends,But in age spread wide destruction among his dearest friends.
I
Then parted the bold couple, both hardy knights and stern,Hagan the chief of Trony, and Dietrich lord of Bern.Then, looking o'er his shoulder, King Gunther's liegeman eyedThe crowd to find a comrade, whom in a trice he spied.
II
Folker, the skilful minstrel, he saw by Giselher stand,And pray'd him to come with him apart from all the band,For well he knew his fierceness and danger-daring mood.He was a knight in all things of dauntless hardihood.
III
They left the lords assembled where in the court they stood;Alone retir'd this couple of hardy knights and good,And cross'd the court far distant, and reach'd a palace fair.Of hostile spite or outrage naught reck'd the peerless pair.
IV
Before the house down sat they upon a bench hard by,Facing a hall of Kriemhild's; a fairer ne'er met eye.Bright from their stately persons their glittering armor shone.Each knight would fain have known them of all who there look'd on.
V
As on wild beasts, grim rangers of wood or dreary wold,The whispering Huns at distance gaz'd on the champions bold.Queen Kriemhild from a window espied them thus apart,And a frown o'ercast her beauty, and passion shook her heart.
VI
She thought on all her sorrows, and straight began to weep.There many a man of Etzel's stood lost in wonder deep.All ask'd, what so disturb'd her, and chang'd her cheer anew."Hagan," she answer'd, "Hagan, ye warriors bold and true!"
VII
Thus they bespake their lady, "How can this have been?But now we saw you merry and blithe of mood, fair queen.How bold soe'er the warrior who has wrong'd King Etzel's wife,Give but the word of vengeance and cost shall it his life."
VIII
"Thanks, warriors, thanks for ever! on him who wreaks my woe,All that he can ask for straight will I bestow.At your feet I throw me," sobbing thus she spake,"Revenge me on this Hagan, and slay him for my sake."
IX
Straight ready made for mischief sixty men of might;Instant would they have hasten'd in fair Kriemhild's rightTo take the life of Hagan, that redoubted one,And of the fearless gleeman; with forethought all was done.
X
But when the queen survey'd them, and found the band so few,Thus she, amidst her fury, bespake her friends anew."Be still awhile, ye warriors! your martial mood restrain;Ne'er can a troop so scanty stern Hagan's might sustain.
XI
"Strong is the Knight of Trony, and oft in battle tried,But stronger yet the warrior who sits him there beside,Folker, the valiant gleeman; he is a dangerous man.Attack them not so rashly; first muster all you can."
XII
They hearken'd to her warning; then many more came on,Till round her knights four hundred in burnish'd armor shone.The furious queen was longing her rage on both to sate;Thence came the chiefs soon after to stand in deadly strait.
XIII
When so she saw her meiny each in his harness stand,Thus she sternly smiling bespake th' impatient band."Wait yet, my friends, a moment, ere with yon pair you close;My crown upon my temples will I confront my foes.
XIV
"First hear, and from the doer, whose hand my heart has torn,The wrongs, that I from Hagan, my brother's man, have borne,I know him for so haughty, that out he'll speak them all;And I too care as little what thence on him may fall."
XV
When that redoubted minstrel, who kept good watch, I ween,Descending swift a staircase beheld the noble queen,And thence beyond the threshold—when he this espiedIn a trice bespake he his comrade by his side.
XVI
"Look there! look there! friend Hagan! how hither there she hies,Who to this land has drawn us with friendly seeming lies!Queen yet saw I never begirt with such a band,Each marching as to battle with naked sword in hand.
XVII
"Know you that here, friend Hagan, you're hated bitterly?So keep you all the better from force or treachery;Look to your life and honor; this is what I advise;They're coming on in anger if rightly I surmise.
XVIII
"And many there are among them so broad across the chest—If we are to defend us, 'tis time to do our best.Each about his body a shining mailcoat wears,But whom therewith they threaten, not a tongue declares."
XIX
Thereto in wrath Sir Hagan gave answer stern and proud,"Well know I wherefore musters yon armor-bearing crowd;'Gainst me they gird the hauberk and wave the sword on high,Yet back again to Rhineland in spite of them will I.
XX
"Tell me now, friend Folker, will you stand me by,If these men of Kriemhild's would my mettle try?Show me, if you love me, faithful friend and true!And when you need my service I'll do as much for you."
XXI
"To death will I stand by you," the minstrel answer made,"Though came the king against us with all his knights to aid.As long as life is in me, to fight I will not slack,Nor from your side for terror one foot will I give back."
XXII
"Now God in heaven requite you, good friend in danger tried!Let them come on, and welcome; what can I need beside!If Folker is my second, as I rejoice to hear.Yon knights, methinks, will ponder before they venture near."
XXIII
"To rise would now become us," the gleeman straight replied,"She is a king's companion, and nobly born beside.As a queen and a lady, such honor is her due.By fitly doing honor we both shall gain it too."
XXIV
"Nay, as you love me, Folker," said Hagan, "do not so.Were we to rise an instant in face of yonder foe,They'd fancy we were flinching, and that through fear 'twere done.Here will I sit before them, and rise will I for none.
XXV
"Sure it becomes us better here as we are to wait.How can I ever honor who bears me deadly hate?That will I do never as long as I have life.I care not, I, a tittle for the wrath of Etzel's wife."
XXVI
Across his legs his broadsword o'erweening Hagan laid,A keen well-temper'd weapon; on the pummel fair display'dA beaming precious jasper, greener than grass, it bore.At a glance did Kriemhild know it for that which Siegfried wore.
XXVII
At the sight she started; nigh her senses fled;Golden was the handle, the scabbard trimm'd with red;It brought back all her sorrow; her tears began to flow.For that, I ween, had Hagan laid out the weapon so.
XXVIII
On the bench beside him Folker the swift and strongA fiddlestick grasp'd closer, massy and broad and long,As sharp as any razor, much like a battle-blade.There sat the lofty couple unmov'd and undismay'd.
XXIX
So proud they felt together that pair of champions bold,That rise would they never for one of mortal mould.Straight up to them went Kriemhild, scarce deigning to bestowThe stern contemptuous greeting that foe accords to foe.
XXX
Said she, "Now say, Sir Hagan, who has sent for you,That you have dar'd hither to come with yonder crew?And yet you must remember all you have done to me.Had you been in your senses, you'd sure have let it be."
XXXI
"'Tis true," straight answer'd Hagan, "no one sent for me.To this land were invited royal brethren three;My lords are those three brethren, and their man am I,And courts they seldom visit but Hagan must be by."
XXXII
Said she, "Now tell me further, why did you that ill deed,That my undying hatred has won you, fitting meed?'Twas you that did Sir Siegfried, my noble husband, slay,For whom must I for ever weep to my dying day."
XXXIII
Said he, "Why question further? That were a waste of breath.In a word, I am e'en Hagan, who Siegfried did to death.How dearly paid the warrior, the best good knights among,For all fair Brunhild suffer'd from Lady Kriemhild's tongue!
XXXIV
"What I have done, proud princess, I never will deny.The cause of all the mischief, the wrong, the loss, am I.So now, or man, or woman, revenge it who so will;I scorn to speak a falsehood, I've done you grievous ill."
XXXV
Said she, "You hear it, warriors, how he confesses all,All the wrong he did me; what thence may him befall,To me it nothing matters, ye knights, King Etzel's best!"The haughty Huns stood doubting, and each look'd on the rest.
XXXVI
Whate'er had then befallen, had once the strife begun,Sure had those two companions the palm of knighthood won;Well had they prov'd their valor in many a field before.The Huns their high adventure perforce through fear gave o'er.
XXXVII
Thus spake one of the warriors, "Why look ye so on me?From this foolish promise at once I'll set me free.No gifts shall ever move me to lose my precious life.The queen misleads us merely; trust not King Etzel's wife."
XXXVIII
"Ay, friend!" rejoin'd another, "I'm in the self-same case;Yonder large-lim'b minstrel never would I face,No, not if one would give me whole towers of good red gold.Mark his sharp, quick glances; he's wary as he's bold.
XXXIX
"Well know I, too, Sir Hagan, e'en from his youthful days,And so can well give credence when others speak his praise.In two and twenty battles I've seen him sway the strife;That arm of his, believe me, has widow'd many a wife.
XL
"He and the valiant Spaniard many an adventure soughtWhile here they dwelt with Etzel, and many a battle foughtTo the king's boot and glory; full oft they prov'd their might;All tongues must so much honor yield Hagan as his right.
XLI
"Yet then the hardy warrior in years was but a child;Now are they grave and grizzled who then were raw and wild.Now is he proved in counsel, a champion stern and strong,And eke wears trusty Balmung, which erst he gain'd by wrong."
XLII
Thus 'twas at once decided, and struck was not a blow.Sore irk'd it angry Kriemhild; her heart was wrung with woe.Thence back the knights departed, each fearing to be spedBy that redoubted couple; good cause had they for dread.
XLIII
Then spoke the valiant gleeman, "We now have seen too clear,As we were told by Dietrich, that foes beset us here.Best to court hence hurry, and with the kings unite;Then none against our masters will dare provoke the fight."
XLIV
How oft does the faint waverer let slip the lucky hour,While friend by friend firm standing confronts the deadliest store.Be they but bold and ready! no charm 'gainst sword and dartLike that which smith ne'er temper'd, wise head and fearless heart.
XLV
"Lead on then," answer'd Hagan, "I'll follow close behind."They went, where yet the warriors they were in time to findIn the court still waiting, girt by a glittering crowd.Thereat the dauntless Folker cried to his lords aloud,
XLVI
"Noble Burgundian princes! how long here will you stayIn all this crowd and pressure? better to court away,And learn the mind of Etzel from his own proper tongue."Then each chose his companion the well-prov'd knights among.
XLVII
The Prince of Bern, Sir Dietrich, took friendly by the handGunther the puissant ruler of Burgundy's fair land,Irnfried went pair'd with Gernot the knight devoid of fear,And to court strode Rudeger with youthful Giselher.
XLVIII
Howe'er the rest were coupled, as mov'd to court the train,Folker and Hagan they parted ne'er again,Save in one mortal struggle, e'en to their dying hour.That strife high dames lamented each in her widow'd bower.
XLIX
So on to court mov'd slowly the kings in royal state,Their train a thousand nobles proud on such lords to wait;With them were sixty champions, the flower of all contest,Whom in his land Sir Hagan had chosen for the best.
L
Hawart and Iring, of knighthood each the pride,With the royal brethren mov'd softly side by side;Dankwart and Wolfhart, a valiant hardy knight,Display'd their courteous bearing in each beholder's sight.
LI
Soon as the Lord of Rhineland had come within the door,The mighty monarch Etzel could keep his seat no more.At the first glimpse of Gunther up you might see him spring,And welcome him as warmly as king did ever king.
LII
"Sir Gunther, welcome hither! welcome Sir Gernot too,And your fair brother Giselher; my faithful service trueI sent you, as befitted, to Worms beyond the Rhine.Your friends, too, all are welcome alike to me and mine.
LIII
"And you, bold pair, trice welcome, whom I together view,Danger-defying Folker, and peerless Hagan too,To me and to my lady; she'll see you nothing loath.She many a friendly message to Rhine has sent for both."
LIV
Then said the Knight of Trony, "Such oft have reach'd my earAnd, had I not come hither to serve my lieges dear,I fain, to do you honor, had ridd'n into this land."His guests then noble Etzel took friendly by the hand.
LV
Straight to the seat he led them where he had just been sitting;Then to the guests were handed with grave and zeal befittingMead, morat, wine, successive, in golden goblets bright,And each the noble strangers welcom'd as best he might.
LVI
Then thus resum'd King Etzel, "I will confess to all,That in this world could nothing so to my wish befallAs your arrival hither; besides, this happy dayHas to my queen giv'n comfort, and charm'd her griefs away.
LVII
"Before, I own, I wonder'd what wrong I could have wrought,That, while in crowds my table guests of high lineage sought,You ne'er had ridden hither, as though from some annoy,But now that here I see you my wonder's lost in joy."
LVIII
The lofty-minded Rudeger thereto this answer gave,"Well may you joy to see them; they're good and true as brave.The kinsmen of my lady all honor's lore are taught;They many a stately warrior have to your dwelling brought."
LIX
'Twas an eve of fair midsummer when the lords of Rhineland cameTo the court of mighty Etzel, and seldom chiefs of fameMet so warm a welcome as was on these bestow'd.'Twas now the hour of revel: the king with them to table strode.
LX
Host with guest together ne'er merrier took his seat.They gave them in abundance alike of drink and meat.Whate'er they wish'd or fancied was brought in plenteous store.Great wonders of the warriors had oft been told before.
LXI
Etzel, the mighty monarch, had on th' Hungarian soilUprais'd a spacious fabric with mickle cost and toil,Palaces and turrets within a fortress wide,And chambers without number, and a splendid hall beside.
LXII
Long, high and wide had Etzel uprear'd this gorgeous frame,For that to him such numbers of trooping champions came;Beside his other courtiers, twelve kings that sceptres bore;And crowds of worthy warriors had he at all times more
LXIII
Than king had e'er assembled, as I for truth have found.He lived in mirth and honor with his kin and men around.The shouting and the pressing of knights from far and wideHad the good prince ever about him; he thus the world defied.
I
The day it now was ended, the night was near at hand;Deep care was now besetting the travel-tainted band,When they should take their slumber; for rest they sorely yearn'd.That question put Sir Hagan, and answer soon return'd.
II
To th' host thus spake King Gunther, "God grant, you long may live!Fain would we now repose us; such leave, I pray you, give.If so you wish, to-morrow we'll come at break of day."The host dismiss'd them gladly, and all went each his way.
III
Sore throng'd were then the strangers, such crowds to see them ran;Thereat the valiant Folker thus to the Huns began."How dare you crowd and press us, ill-train'd, unnurtur'd crew?Give place, or you'll discover 'twill be the worse for you.
IV
"My fiddlestick's no feather; on whom I let it fall,If he has friends that love him, 'twill set them weeping all.Make way then for us warriors, for so it seems me right.We're equals all in knighthood, not so in mood and might."
V
While thus in wrath the minstrel reprov'd the jostling crowd,Hagan, who had gone forward, look'd back and cried aloud,"List to the valiant gleeman; he gives you good advice;To your quarters, knights of Kriemhild! Let us not warn you twice.
VI
"Your malice lacks performance; e'en now, methinks, you doubt;So, if you would aught with us, by daylight seek us out,And, for this night, to slumber leave us wayfarers free.Never, I ween, did warriors so long for it as we."
VII
Then led were the bold strangers thence to a spacious hall.For rest as for convenience they found it furnish'd allWith beds, long, broad and sumptuous, arrang'd throughout the room,Dame Kriemhild still was plotting their bale and deadly doom.
VIII
Many a fine quilt from Arras you might see glittering thereOf stuff most rich and precious, and many a tester fairOf silk from far Arabia the best that could be found,And thereupon were borders that bright shone wide around.
IX
And coverlets in order were laid of ermine white,And others of dark sable, whereunder every knightShould pass the hours in slumber e'en to the dawning day.A king with his attendants ne'er in such splendor lay.
X
"Alas for these night quarters!" the youthful Giselher cried!"Alas for our good comrades who 'midst the Huns abide!However kind the message that from my sister sped,I fear, through her devices we all shall soon lie dead."
XI
"Now think not of such danger," the dauntless Hagan spake,"Myself this night about you the sentry's charge will take.I'll keep you safe, believe me, e'en to the dawn of day.For so long fear for nothing; then turn his doom who may."
XII
They bow'd to the good champion, and thank'd him, as was due,Then to the beds betook them, nor many moments flewEre stretch'd upon his pallet was every mighty man.Hagan the wakeful sentry to don his arms began.
XIII
Thereat the good Knight Folker, the valiant minstrel, spake,"If you'll not scorn it, Hagan, I'd fain your watch partakeThis night, till early morning bring us both relief."Right cordially Sir Hagan thus thank'd the friendly chief:
XIV
"Now God in heaven reward you, Folker, dear friend and true.For ne'er another comrade I long, but only you,What strait soe'er beset me; I'm yours to my last breath,And well will I requite you, if hinder'd not by death."
XV
With that his glittering hauberk each girt his waist about,Each grasp'd in hand his buckler, and straight, with courage stoutFrom the house forth issuing, took post outside the door,And there with faith and manhood still watch'd their comrades o'er.
XVI
The swift-footed minstrel scarce had he left the hall,Ere he his good buckler set down against the wall,And back hurried thither; his viol he took in hand,And with it as became him charm'd the way-wearied band.
XVII
Upon the stone he sat him beneath the palace door;Minstrel more undaunted viol ne'er struck before;He struck the strings so sweetly ever as he play'd,That the meed of thanks to Folker each haughty stranger paid.
XVIII
The house it all re-echoed, he struck so loud and shrill;The minstrel's strength was matchless, nor less the minstrel's skill.Sweeter anon and softer when he to play began,On the beds he steep'd in slumber many a care-harrow'd man.
XIX
When they in sleep were buried, and this by proof he knew,Once more in hand his buckler grasp'd the champion true,And, from the room forth stalking, before the tower he stepp'd,And so the slumbering strangers from the men of Kriemhild kept.
XX
'Twas of the night the middle, or something earlier yet,When the bright gleam of helmets the glance of Folker metAt distance through the darkness; 'twas Kriemhild's street-clad train,To do the guests a mischief all hastening on amain.
XXI
Ere thither had Queen Kriemhild these warriors darkling sent,She said, "For heaven's sake listen to this my fix'd intent.Harm none of yonder sleepers, but one whom I detest,The faithless murderer Hagan; slay him and spare the rest."
XXII
Then spake the fearless gleeman, "Friend Hagan, we must bear(As fits us) like true comrades the wakeful warder's care.Before the house discern I a band of men in mail,Who, as I think, will instant our wary watch assail."
XXIII
"Hush, hush," quick answer'd Hagan, "let them yet nearer steal;Before they can espy us, they shall our weapons feel.Our hands thus many a headpiece shall sudden split in twain,And send them hence with sorrow to Kriemhild back again."
XXIV
One of the Hunnish champions in a trice espiedThat the door was guarded; how at once he cried,"This plan of ours, my comrades, we must straight give o'er;I see the minstrel standing on guard the hall before.
XXV
"Look how his helmet glitters! 'tis not more bright than stout,To dint of steel impassive, and temper'd well throughout;His mail like fire is glowing; by him stands Hagan too;The guests may sleep in safety with guards so stout and true."
XXVI
Back at once they hasted; when Folker this espied,To his valiant partner in sudden wrath he cried,"Now let me hence, friend Hagan, after yonder crew.Fain would I to the skulkers a question put or two."
XXVII
"No! for my sake," said Hagan, "'twould to our loss redound;If but this post you quitted, they all would flock you round,And bring you to such peril if once they hemm'd you in,That I should fly to help you; then ill would fare my kin;
XXVIII
"For while we two were fighting, and both in dubious case,Three or four of yonder cowards might in a moment's spaceRush into the chamber, and on the sleepers set,And do them all such mischief as we could ne'er forget."
XXIX
"Yet this at least allow me," the minstrel-knight replied,"Let's show the men of Kriemhild, we have their steps espied,That this to-morrow morning may be denied by none,That they a shameful treason would willingly have done."
XXX
With that behind them Folker sent forth a lusty shout,"How now, ye men of Kriemhild? Why walk ye, arm'd, about?For murder or for robbery is it that ye ride?My friend and I would help you, come take us on your side."
XXXI
Not a tongue gave answer; wroth was the good knight;"Fie! Ye bloody dastards!" he cried with all his might."So you would us have murder'd, sleeping, every one!On such good knights has rarely so foul a deed been done."
XXXII
Full soon unto Queen Kriemhild the sorry tidings came,That her men had compass'd nothing; it set her heart on flame.Another course she ventur'd, festering with fell despite,That brought death and destruction on many a hapless knight.
I
"So cold I feel my hauberk," the minstrel said at last,"The night, I ween, friend Hagan, must needs be waning fast.The nipping air assures me that close at hand is day."Then wak'd they of their comrades who yet in slumber lay.
II
Then broke the gleam of morning on those within the hall.Straight began Sir Hagan to rouse the warriors all,If they would to the minster the early mass to hear.Meanwhile in Christian fashion the bells were ringing clear.
III
The chants were so discordant, thereby you well might see,That Christian men and heathen together ill agree.The valiant men of Gunther would thence to church away.From their beds they started; little linger'd they.
IV
With that at once they laced them all in such gorgeous vests,That into no king's country had ever knightly guestsBrought weed more fair and costly; ill did it Hagan please;"Here," said he, "are fitting for other clothes than these.
V
"My friends, what toils beset us, you all well understand;So for the rose, ye warriors, take the good sword in hand,And for the cap of jewels the morion beaming bright.Remember what fell Kriemhild devis'd but yesternight.
VI
"To-day must we do battle, so I bid you well beware;For the soft silken tunic the clashing hauberk wear,And for the sumptuous mantle the buckler stout and wide,That, when they rage against ye, the brunt you well may bide.
VII
"Give ear, my dearest masters, my kin and comrades too,Go to the church, and welcome, it fits you so to do,And wail to God in heaven your need, while you have breath,And know ye this for certain, that at our heels is death.
VIII
"Forget not then, moreover, if aught ye ill have done,And fervently for pardon pray, every mother's son;For this I warn you, warriors, nor hold these words for vain,Ne'er, but God show you mercy, mass will ye hear again."
IX
Then went they to the minster, the princes and their band.Just at the holy churchyard bold Hagan bade them stand,And keep all well together, and thus bespake the crew."Who knows, to us Burgundians what yonder Huns may do?
X
"Take heed, my friends, your bucklers bring down before your feet,And, if a soul our party in hostile guise should greet,Requite him with a death-stroke; so seems to Hagan right,So doing, will each among us be found as fits a knight."
XI
Folker then and Hagan both together wentAnd stood before the minster; 'twas done with this intent,That they might see if Kriemhild would stir the slumbering feudPassing contemptuous by them; right stern were both of mood.
XII
And now came on King Etzel and eke his lady fair,Both, as their state befitted, in garments rich and rare,With crowds of knights all ready to do their high commands.Uprose the dust to heaven from Kriemhild's trampling bands;
XIII
When the king, advancing, so arm'd to point espiedThe kings and their bold vassals, how quick to them he cried,"What's this? my friends in armor marching thus along?In sooth, 'twould sore afflict me if they have suffer'd wrong.
XIV
"Amends I'll make, and gladly, as shall to them seem right;If any have put on them affront or foul despite,I'll show them, that such outrage I also inly rue,And all that they demand me, I ready am to do."
XV
Then Hagan thus made answer, "Naught has to us been done;But my lords have a custom, till three whole days be run,When royal feasts they visit, their warlike arms to wear;All wrong that may be done us, to Etzel we'll declare."
XVI
Right well heard Lady Kriemhild what Trony's knight replied.How bitterly the warrior under her lids she eyed!Yet, though the truth well knowing as a Burgundian dame,She would not to her husband her country's use proclaim.
XVII
How deep soe'er and deadly the hate she bore her kinStill, had the truth by any disclos'd to Etzel been,He had at once prevented what afterward befell.Through proud contemptuous courage they scorn'd their wrongs to tell.
XVIII
Then on went haughty Kriemhild girt with a mighty crowd,Yet swerve would not before her that pair of champions proudSo much as e'en two hands'-breadth; that gall'd th' Hungarians sore.Perforce they press'd and jostled with the warriors through the door.
XIX
The chamberlains of Etzel therewith were ill content;They had straight the haughty strangers defied as in they went;But that they fear'd to do so their monarch's eyes before;Pressing enough and jostling there was, but nothing more.
XX
When serv'd was God as fitted, and thence would every one,Straight into the saddle leapt many a warlike Hun;The while around fair Kriemhild many a bright maid was seen,And full seven thousand champions begirt the stately queen.
XXI
Queen Kriemhild and her ladies now at the windows satWith the wide-ruling Etzel; well pleas'd was he with that.They would survey the tourney where knights their prowess show'dAh! what stranger warriors in the court before them rode!
XXII
Thither too the marshal was with the yeomen come;The redoubted Dankwart had muster'd, all and some,The followers of his master, the flower of Rhenish ground.For the bold Nibelungers well-saddled steeds were found.
XXIII
Thither the kings came riding and with them many a man,When the good minstrel Folker to counsel this began,That they should joust together each in his country's mode.Thereafter in the tourney the chiefs full knightly rode.
XXIV
What so the warrior counsell'd gave all who heard content.A mighty press and clatter uprose incontinent.Into the court's broad circuit prick'd many a mighty man.King Etzel and Queen Kriemhild now to look on began.
XXV
There came into the tourney six hundred warriors fleet,Retainers of Sir Dietrich, the stranger knights to meet.With the bold Burgundians they long'd a course to run.Had Dietrich but permitted fain would they so have done.
XXVI
Ah! what good knights among them rein'd the proud battle-steed!To their good lord Sir Dietrich the news was brought with speedWith Gunther's knights forbade he his knights a lance to cross,Naught from such game forboding but grief and deadly loss.
XXVII
When now from out the tilt-yard the men of Bern were gone,Sir Rudeger's retainers before the hall came on,Five hundred from Bechlaren with shields and armor gay.Well had it pleas'd the margrave had they been far away.
XXVIII
Then he rode in his wisdom up to the muster'd band,And earnestly bespake them, and gave to understand,That Gunther's men were sullen and all on mischief bent;If they would quit the tourney, 'twould give him much content.
XXIX
When thence were now departed the margrave's warriors bold,Then came the men of Thüringen, as has to us been told,And from the realm of Denmark a thousand proud and high.Then from the crashing lances were seen the shivers fly.
XXX
Irnfried then and Hawart into the tourney rode.Proudly the bold Burgundians their sturdy brunt abode.The noble knights of Thüringen they met in many a joust,And many a glittering buckler pierc'd through with many a thrust.
XXXI
Sir Blœdel with three thousand rode forward frank and free;By Etzel and by Kriemhild full well observ'd was he;Before them both, his tilting perform'd each gallant knight;Through hate to the Burgundians it gave the queen delight.
XXXII
She ponder'd thus in secret (as nigh to pass it came),"Should they by chance hurt any, at once this gentle gameWould turn to bloody earnest; then I on these my foesShould be reveng'd for ever, and quit of all my woes."
XXXIII
Schrutan and stout Gibek into the tourney rode,And Ramung and swift Hornbog after the Hunnish mode.Against the bold Burgundians they knightly bore them all;High flew the whizzing splinters o'er the king's mighty hall.
XXXIV
And yet all their performance was but an empty sound.Hall might you hear and palace with clashing shields resound,Where rode the men of Gunther: by them proud deeds were done.His train of that fair tourney the highest honors won.
XXXV
So great was then the pastime when front to front they met,That through the reeking foot-cloths forth burst the frothy sweatFrom the high-mettled coursers which the good knights bestrode,As 'gainst the lords of Hungary in haughty wise they rode.
XXXVI
Then spake the noble minstrel Folker with scornful glance,"These knights, methinks, will never confront us lance to lance.I hear it loudly rumor'd they bear us mortal spite;Surely can they never find better time to fight.
XXXVII
"So let us to our quarters," the fearless warrior cried,"Send hence our weary horses; back we can hither ride,If there be time, toward evening; 'twere fitter then than now;What if to us Burgundians the queen should praise allow?"
XXXVIII
Just then there rode so proudly into the lists a Hun,That so no knight among them the general gaze had won.Perchance e'en then in secret for some fair maid he sigh'd.He wore as rich apparel as any noble bride.
XXXIX
At once outspake Sir Folker, "I needs must spoil his cheer;Yonder ladies' darling must feel a push of spear.No one shall prevent it—let him guard his life.I reck not, though it kindle the wrath of Etzel's wife."
XL
"No! as you love me, Folker," straight the king 'gan say,"The people all will blame us if we commence the fray.Let the Huns begin it: 'twere better so, I ween."Still was King Etzel sitting beside his moody queen.
XLI
"I'll join you in the tourney," fierce Hagan sternly cried;"Let's show both knights and ladies how we Burgundians ride.'Twere well, by proof they knew it; they'd rate us higher then.Now they deny all credit to good King Gunther's men."
XLII
Back into the tourney swift Folker hotly spurr'd;Thereby was many a lady to grievous sorrow stirr'd.Right through that proud Hun's body he drove the griding spear.That stroke both dames and damsels cost many a bitter tear.
XLIII
That saw at once Sir Hagan, nor dallying there abode;With sixty of his champions, all thundering as they rode,'Gainst th' Huns he hotly hurtled fast by the gleeman's side.King Etzel and Queen Kriemhild the tourney closely eyed.
XLIV
Nor would the three kings basely in dastard sloth repose,And leave the minstrel aidless among unnumber'd foes,With them came to the rescue a thousand warriors good;Haughty and overweening they did whate'er they would.
XLV
Soon as by Sir Folker the wealthy Hun was slain,You might hear his kinsmen cry out and loudly plain.All in a breath were asking, "Who has this outrage done?""Folker the bold minstrel," gave answer many a one.
XLVI
Straight for swords and bucklers were calling all the bandAkin to the young margrave of the Hunnish land;The fearless minstrel Folker they thought at once to slay.The host down from a window took in haste his way.
XLVII
From the Huns on all sides a cry arose amain.Before the hall alighted the kings and all their train.Every bold Burgundian sent his steed away;Up in haste came Etzel and parted straight the fray.
XLVIII
He found one of the kinsmen with his sword drawn in his hand;From him in an instant he snatch'd the naked brand,And beat the brawlers backward, chafing and raging sore."In sooth with these good warriors my favor all were o'er,"
XLIX
Said Etzel, "If among us this minstrel here ye slew;'Twas by mere misadventure he ran your kinsman through.I had my eye upon him just as he struck the blow.It was his steed that stumbled; 'twas heaven would have it so.
L
"Then leave my friends in quiet, and from the tilt-yard speed."Himself then gave them escort; meanwhile each battle-steedWas led thence to their quarters, for those Burgurdian guestsHad many a zealous varlet to tend their high behests.
LI
Then with his friends King Etzel into his palace went;He bade all cease from anger, and calm'd their fierce intent.Ready were set the tables; for all was water brought.The lives of the Burgundians many a stout foeman sought.
LII
However irk'd it Etzel, still many an armed knightPress'd close behind the princes, e'en in the king's despite,Lowering with hateful glances as they to table went,Each to revenge his kinsman on those proud strangers bent.
LIII
"'Tis an ill use," said Etzel, "and one I scarce can bear,At the feastful table the weeds of war to wear.But whosoe'er his vengeance on these my guests shall wreak,His head shall pay the forfeit; this to you Huns I speak."
LIV
'Twas long before was seated every lordly guest.Fell care and deep disquiet wrung Kriemhild's laboring breast."Prince of Bern," she murmur'd, "thy counsel, aid and graceI seek in sore affliction; pity my mournful case."
LV
Then answer'd her Sir Hildebrand, a warrior frank and free,"Who'd slay the Nibelungers shall have no help from me,No, not for countless treasure; th' attempt he well may rue;The good knights ne'er were conquer'd, with whom he'll have to do."
LVI
Said she, "Yet surely Hagan has done me cruel wrong;He murder'd my beloved, the strongest of the strong.Who'd lure him from the others, should have my gold for meed.'Twould inly discontent me should one but Hagan bleed."
LVII
Then answer'd Master Hildebrand, "How can that ever be?Slay him among his fellows? Why surely you must see,That, if we strike at Hagan, to battle straight will all,And rich and poor together must in one slaughter fall."
LVIII
Then in his courteous fashion thereto Sir Dietrich spake,"Great queen, this talk give over, and better counsel take.Me never wrong'd your kinsmen, nor is there cause that IShould warriors, whom I value, to mortal strife defy.
LIX
"It does you little honor, the simple truth to say,Against your trusting kinsmen such deadly plots to lay.'Twas under a safe-conduct they enter'd Etzel's land.Revenge for Siegfried never expect from Dietrich's hand."
LX
When she no spark of treason found in the Berner brave,Of a wide march to Blœdel the promise straight she gave.It once belong'd to Nudung; a gift 'twas for a queen;Yet a stroke of Dankwart's made him forget it quite and clean.
LXI
"To give me help, Sir Blœdel," said she, "the task be thine;Harbor'd within this palace are mortal foes of mine,The same, who my dear husband Sir Siegfried did to die;Who helps me to revenge it, to him for ever bound am I."
LXII
Thus answer'd her Sir Blœdel, "Lady, to truth give ear;I dare not wreak your vengeance, for Etzel's wrath I fear.He's glad to see your kinsmen and all their vassals throng,And never would forgive me if I should do them wrong."
LXIII
"Nay, say not so, Sir Blœdel, I'll stand thy friend at need;Silver and gold in plenty I'll give thee for thy meed,Besides a beauteous damsel, whom Nudung had to wife.Lapp'd in her soft caresses thou'lt lead a loving life.