I
Kriemhild at Zeissenmauer remain'd till the fourth day;On the roads, while there she rested, the dust no moment lay.It seem'd the land was burning, so smok'd each hoof-beat plain,As Etzel's men through Austria came trampling on amain.
II
When to the monarch's hearing the joyful tidings came.How stately through his country rode the Burgundian dame,All sorrow in a moment was from his heart effac'd;To meet his love and lady he spurred with burning haste.
III
Good knights of many a region and many a foreign tonguePrick'd before King Etzel, that all the champaign rung;Christian and heathen squadrons, careering wide around,Advanc'd in dazzling splendor to where the queen they found.
IV
Chiefs from Greece and Russia in crowds were there to meet;Polacks and Wallachians there were spurring fleet.Each his fiery charger had in due command;Each display'd the customs of his own native land.
V
From Kiev came many a champion, each in fair array,And savage Petchenegers, that ever on their wayKept shooting from the saddle at wild birds as they flew;The arrow-head full strongly to the bend of the bow they drew.
VI
Fast by the flowing Danube there stands on Austrian groundA city that hight Tulna; there first fair Kriemhild foundMany an outlandish custom, and was with welcome soughtBy many a knight, whom after to doom and death she brought.
VII
Before King Etzel riding his household forward came,Four and twenty princes of loftiest birth and name,Merry, and rich, and courtly, and glittering all with gold,Who long'd for nothing better than their lady to behold.
VIII
Duke Ramung of Wallachia rode trampling o'er the plain;Seven hundred chosen warriors behind him held the rein;You might see them speeding like wild birds in their flight.Thither came Prince Gibek with many a squadron bright.
IX
Swift Hornbog, with a thousand trampling the dusty green,Left the side of the monarch, and gallop'd toward the queen.After their country's fashion they shouted shrill and loud.Hotly was also ridden by Etzel's kinsmen proud.
X
Hawart was there of Denmark (a champion bold was he),And the nimble Iring from falsehood ever free,And Irnfried of Thüringia, a stern and stately knight.These receiv'd fair Kriemhild with all the pomp they might.
XI
With men at arms twelve hundred advanc'd they o'er the lea.Thither too from Hungary rode on with thousands threeSir Blœdel, Etzel's brother, for knightly deeds renown'd;He mov'd with princely splendor to where the queen he found.
XII
Last the great King Etzel and eke Sir Dietrich cameWith all his brave companions; there many a knight of fameAnd proud descent was present, prudent, and bold, and true,High beat the heart of Kriemhild their wide array to view.
XIII
Then to the queen beside him thus spoke Sir Rudeger;"Lady, with your permission the king I'll welcome here.Whome'er to kiss I bid you, let it straight be done.It fits not, such a favor be granted every one."
XIV
Straight from her sleek palfrey the queen was lifted down;No longer dallied Etzel, the king of wide renown;From horse with many a warrior he lighted on the green,And merrily went forward to meet the noble queen.
XV
Two great and mighty princes, as has to us been told,Advanc'd with the fair lady in raiment rich with gold,As the wide-ruling Etzel approached his bride to meet,When she deign'd the monarch with a loving kiss to greet.
XVI
With that her veil back threw she; forth beam'd her rosy hueFrom the gold around it; many were there to view;All own'd Dame Helca's beauty scarce with hers could vie.There the king's brother Blœdel close was standing by.
XVII
Him the first kiss'd Kriemhild as bade the margrave good,And next to him King Gibek; there too Sir Dietrich stood.Twelve, the chief and noblest, were kiss'd by Etzel's bride.With courteous grace she welcom'd many a good knight beside.
XVIII
All the while that Etzel talk'd with his lady true,The young knights were doing as young knights now will do.They tried their skill in tilting as best they could devise,Christian alike and heathen each in his country's guise.
XIX
In Dietrich's men bold bearing and knightly you might spy.How high above the bucklers they made the splinters fly(So mighty was their puissance) and deafen'd all the field!By the German strangers pierc'd through was many a shield.
XX
The crash of spears resounded as band encounter'd band.Thither were come from all sides the warriors of the land,And the king's guests together, nobles in proud array;Thence now with Lady Kriemhild King Etzel went his way.
XXI
Close by, a rich pavilion for their retreat they found;Crowded with tents and cabins was all the field around.There, after all their labors, their languid limbs they laid.Many a good warrior thither led many a gentle maid,
XXII
Where on a cushion'd sofa rich beyond compareThe stately queen was seated: the margrave's anxious careFor all things most convenient to pomp and ease had sent,And so at once serv'd Kriemhild, and gave the king content.
XXIII
The tale then told by Etzel is more than I can say;Soft in his hand reposing her snowy fingers lay.So sat they gentle toying, for Rudeger, I ween,Left not the king a moment in secret with the queen.
XXIV
Then o'er the spacious meadow they bade the tourney cease;With honor all that tumult now was hush'd in peace.Then Etzel's men betook them to cabin, booth, or tent;Fit and convenient harbor they found where'er they went.
XXV
The day at last was ended, then took they their repose,Till, at her hour returning, the cheerful dawn arose.Then hasten'd many a warrior to horse at once to spring.Ah! what pastimes plied they in honor of the king!
XXVI
The king his Huns exhorted to do as honor bade.From Tulna to Vienna their journey then they made.There found they many a lady adorn'd in all her prideTo welcome with due honor King Etzel's noble bride.
XXVII
In overflowing fulness all, that could each delight,To his wish was ready; exulting many a knightLook'd forward to the revels; joy smil'd on most and least;With mirth and gladness open'd King Etzel's marriage-feast.
XXVIII
The numbers now assembled the city could not hold,So all, who were not strangers, the noble margrave toldTo seek convenient quarters in all the country round.Still constant in attendance on the fair queen were found
XXIX
The valiant chief, Sir Dietrich, and many a knight besides;Needful rest and solace each himself deniedTo cheer the noble strangers and give them full content.Sir Rudeger and his comrades had heartiest merriment.
XXX
Held was the marriage festal on a Whitsuntide;'Twas then that royal Etzel embrac'd his high-born brideIn the city of Vienna; I ween she ne'er had found,When first she wed, such myriads all to her service bound.
XXXI
With gifts she made acquaintance of those she ne'er had seen;"Kriemhild," said many a stranger, "is sure a royal queen;She had lost, we thought, the treasures that she before had won;Yet here with her rich presents what wonders she had done!"
XXXII
For seventeen days did Etzel his marriage festal hold;Never to us of monarch, I ween, before was told,Who so proudly feasted, in old or modern lore.The guests, who there were present, all their new raiment wore.
XXXIII
Of old, I ween, in Netherland she ne'er at board had satWith such a host of warriors; well can I vouch for that;For ne'er so many champions had Siegfried at command,With all his wealth, as Kriemhild saw before Etzel stand.
XXXIV
Never king before him so many mantles brave,For length and breadth conspicuous, at his own wedding gave,Nor such store of rich vesture, enough for each to take;All this was freely lavish'd for lovely Kriemhild's sake.
XXXV
There of a mind together were friends and strangers too;Neither their goods nor chattels kept that free-handed crew.Whatever was ask'd, was granted; they gave till they were bare.Many a one, through kindness, not a coat had left to wear.
XXXVI
How once by Rhine she tarried, the bride a moment thought,With her first noble husband; to her eyes the tears it brought;Yet she so well conceal'd it, the feasters mark'd her not;Now, after all her sorrows, what glory was her lot!
XXXVII
All was but a trifle, that by the rest was done,To the liberal deeds of Dietrich; whatever Botlung's sonIn former days had giv'n him, went scatter'd through the land;Marvels too of bounty were wrought by Rudeger's hand.
XXXVIII
Prince Blœdel, too, of Hungary vied nobly with the best;He bade his comrades empty full many a travelling chestCramm'd with gold and silver; the whole was giv'n away;The warriors of King Etzel a merry life led they.
XXXIX
Werbel as well as Swemmeline, the minstrels of the king,To them no little profit did this fair marriage bring.They gain'd, I ween, in largess a thousand marks or more,When Kriemhild fair with Etzel the crown imperial wore.
XL
'Twas on the eighteenth morning, they from Vienna rode;Pierc'd was many a buckler in tilting on the roadBy spears which valiant champions level'd dexterously.So back return'd King Etzel to the land of Hungary.
XLI
The walls of ancient Haimburg they reach'd by fall of night,So that scarce 'twas easy to estimate by sightHow huge a strength of warriors the country round beset;Ah! what fair troops of ladies each, home returning, met!
XLII
At Misenburg the wealthy, on shipboard went the band;From bank to bank the river, as though 'twere firm dry land,With man and horse was cover'd that floated as it flow'd;Rest had the way-worn ladies, borne on their liquid road.
XLIII
Many a good ship together was lash'd and firmly bound,Lest the damp spray should harm them from billows dashing round;Many a good tent above them kept off the sun and breeze,As if they in a meadow were sitting at their ease.
XLIV
When to King Etzel's castle the joyful tidings came,Right merry were to hear it many a knight and many a dame.The courtly train, accustom'd Queen Helca to obey,In after time with Kriemhild led many a happy day.
XLV
In anxious doubt there waiting stood many a noble maid,All, since the death of Helca, down by deep sorrow weigh'dSeven, of proud kings the daughters, Kriemhild found there in place,Of all King Etzel's country the ornament and grace.
XLVI
Of this fair train of damsels Dame Herrat had the care,Helca's sister's daughter, renown'd for virtues rare,Wife of good Sir Dietrich, daughter of King Nentwine;Her after honors suited well with her lofty line.
XLVII
That the high guests were coming, it joy'd her much to hear;Straight she bade make ready good store of choicest cheer.How then King Etzel feasted, no tongue may hope to tell.E'en in the days of Helca they scarcely far'd so well.
XLVIII
As from the shore with Kriemhild rode on King Etzel bold,Who forward led each damsel, straight to the queen was told,And thus each lord and lady she welcomed as was meet;Ah! with what power thereafter she sat in Helca's seat!
XLIX
Their true and loyal service all vow'd to her alone;Silver, and gold, and raiment, and many a precious stone,She freely shar'd among them; on that auspicious day,All she had brought from Rhineland was giv'n at once away.
L
To her, as to their mistress, whoe'er the king obey'd,His kinsmen and his vassals, true liegemen's service paid,That never Lady Helca ruled with such mighty sway.Such service held Queen Kriemhild e'en to her dying day.
LI
So court and country flourish'd with such high honors crown'd,And all at every season fresh joy and pastime found.Every heart was merry, smiles on each face were seen;So kind the king was ever, so liberal the queen.
I
King Etzel and Queen Kriemhild in proudest honor dweltFor seven whole years together, nor woe nor sorrow felt;Meanwhile to her fond husband the queen produced a boy;Never before did Etzel exult so high with joy.
II
She never ceas'd entreating till her good lord she wonTo have the right of baptism giv'n to her infant sonAfter the Christian custom; Ortlieb call'd was he;Thereat all Etzel's kingdoms were fill'd with mirth and glee.
III
Whatever queenly virtues had fame to Helca brought,Dame Kriemhild daily practis'd, and love, like Helca, sought.From the foreign maiden Herrat, who still in secret yearn'dFor Helca's loss, the customs of all the land she learn'd.
IV
Her praise both friends and strangers alike were glad to tell;'Twas own'd that never kingdom so graciously and wellBy queen had e'er been governed; so much to all was clear.This fame she bore in Hungary e'en to the thirteenth year.
V
When now she knew for certain that none would thwart her will(So deal with wives of princes their husbands' vassals still),And saw twelve kings for ever standing her before,Her home-bred wrongs and sorrows again she brooded o'er.
VI
She thought how all the honors of the Nibelungers' land,That once were her possession, fierce Hagan's rugged hand,After the death of Siegfried, had torn from her away,And how the proud wrong-doer with wrong she might repay.
VII
"'Twere done, if I could only lure him to this land!"Still would she dream, that often she wander'd hand in handWith Giselher her brother, and often on the mouthKiss'd him in her slumber; too soon came bale on both.
VIII
Sure the foul fiend possess'd her, and lurking in her heartPrompted her from King Gunther so lovingly to part,Kissing, but not forgiving, close harboring still the feud.Hot tears of wrath and malice once more her vesture dew'd.
IX
At her heart for ever early and late it lay,How, guiltless, from her country she had been driven away,And forc'd to take for husband a man of heathen creed.Gunther and bloody Hagan had brought her to such need.
X
One long and dreary yearning she foster'd hour by hour;She thought, "I am so wealthy and hold such boundless power,That I with ease a mischief can bring on all my foes,But most on him of Trony, the deadliest far of those.
XI
"Full oft for its beloved my heart is mourning still;Them could I but meet with, who wrought me so much ill,Revenge should strike at murder, and life atone for life;Wait can I no longer." So murmur'd Etzel's wife.
XII
All the great king's vassals much love unto her bore,And to do her service were ready evermore.Her chamberlain was Eckewart, who thus made hosts of friends;So none could thwart her pleasure, whate'er might be her ends.
XIII
Ever was she thinking, "I'll ask the king a boon,Which he, I know, will grant me readily and soon,To bid my friends and kinsmen hither to Hunnish ground,"None guess'd her secret malice, or harm in Kriemhild found.
XIV
So on a night reposing, as by the king she lay(He in his arms embrac'd her, and bless'd the happy day,That gave him such a consort, dear to him as his life;She on her foes was thinking and th' old intestine strife),
XV
Thus spake she to the monarch, "Dear lord, full fain would IEntreat of thee a favor, which thou wilt not denyIf thou think'st I deserve it, to let me see arightIf my friends in good earnest have favor in thy sight."
XVI
Then spake the mighty monarch (kind was his heart and true),"Of that can I assure thee; whatever good accrueTo those bold knights, be certain to me content it lends;Never through love of woman acquir'd I better friends."
XVII
Then thus made Kriemhild answer, "'Tis true, as thou dost know,Right noble are my kinsmen, yet ever am I woeThat still they keep so distant nor I by them am seen.I'm told, for a mere outcast people report your queen."
XVIII
Then answer'd thus King Etzel, "Dear love and lady mine,If they regard not distance, I'll send beyond the Rhine.And hither bid whomever thou here to see art fain."Much joy'd the vengeful lady thus his consent to gain.
XIX
Said she, "Would'st thou but please me, dear lord and master mine,Despatch from hence thy envoys to Worms beyond the Rhine.Such friends as most I long for, I hither will invite,And straight will come among us full many a noble knight."
XX
Said he, "As thou would'st have it, so let the matter be;Assure thee, thou wilt never thy friends so gladly seeAs I shall gladly see them, noble Uta's children dear;It irks me much and deeply, they've been such strangers here.
XXI
"So, if it thus content thee, dear love and lady mine,I'll gladly send my minstrels for those good friends of thine.They this very morning shall start for Burgundy."With that, the king his minstrels bade summon instantly.
XXII
They hasten'd at the summons where, newly ris'n from bed,The king sat with his consort; thus to both he said,"Hence you with a message to Burgundy must ride."With that, the richest vesture, he bade for them provide.
XXIII
For four and twenty warriors fit raiment was prepar'd.Moreover to his envoys his will the king declar'd,How they should to Hungary bid Gunther and his folk.But what the queen enjoin'd them close apart she spoke.
XXIV
Thus them address'd King Etzel, "I'll tell you what to do;To my good friends go tender my love and service true,And bid them deign ride hither, and taste our Hunnish cheer.Guests have I none other whom I hold so dear.
XXV
"So if they will do me the favor which I pray,Entreat them not to linger; speed makes the surest way.At my high feast this summer I trust to see my friends,And on my wife's fair kinsmen much of my joy depends."
XXVI
Thereto replied the minstrel, the haughty Swemmeline,"When in this land of Hungary your feast do you design?That to your friends exactly your purpose we may say.""About," replied King Etzel, "next midsummer day."
XXVII
"We'll surely do your bidding," Werbel made reply.Into her inmost chamber the queen bade by and byIn secret bring the envoys, and there her will 'gan tell,Whence death and grim destruction many a good knight befell.
XXVIII
She said to both the envoys, "Now only serve me true,And as I command you my will discreetly do,And, when you come to Rhineland, speak but my bidding there,And I'll give you gold and raiment plenty and to spare.
XXIX
"To my friends, whomever you meet with, more or less,At Worms, as there you tarry, be sure you ne'er confessThat ever you beheld me moody or sorrow-worn;Only let my service to the good knights be borne.
XXX
"Beg them to grant the favor for which the king hath sent,And so at once will vanish my only discontent.I here am fancied friendless, and scarce esteem'd aright.I'd go myself to visit them if I but were a knight.
XXXI
"And also to Sir Gernot, my noble brother, say,That none can love him better than his sister far away,And bid him bring me hither our friends most prov'd and true,That all may here accord us the honor that's our due.
XXXII
"And say, too, to young Giselher that he should bear in mind,That he never wrong'd me, but still was good and kind.My eyes are ever yearning to look upon him here,For dearly do I love him, as I to him am dear.
XXXIII
"And tell my noble mother what honors here I bear.Then, if Hagan of Trony resolve to tarry there,Who will there be to guide them through lands so waste and lone?But he the roads to Hungary e'en from a child has known."
XXXIV
Not a whit the envoys could guess her deep designIn keeping him of Trony from tarrying by the Rhine.It irk'd them sore thereafter, when their unconscious breathWith him had drawn the guiltless into the toils of death.
XXXV
Letters and goodly greetings the king was prompt to give;And riches bore they with them right sumptuously to live.So leave they took of Etzel, and of his noble queen;Adorn'd were they with raiment as rich as e'er was seen.
I
When Etzel had his envoys for the Rhenish border bown'd,From land to land the tidings at once flew wide around.He pray'd and eke commanded by many a nimble postGuests to his gorgeous festal; 'twas the doom of death to most.
II
So from the realm of Hungary forth the envoys wentTo the bold Burgundians; thither were they sentTo three royal brethren and their warriors wightTo bid them come to Etzel; fast prick'd they as they might.
III
Thence came they to Bechlaren as on the spur they rode;There all were glad to tend them, and naught but kindness show'd.Rudeger and Gotelind by them their service trueSent to their friends in Rhineland, so did their daughter too.
IV
Thence without many a present they would not let them part,So that the men of Etzel might go with merrier heart.Rudeger bade tell Uta and her children three,That sure no other margrave lov'd them so well as he.
V
And eke they sent to Brunhild their service and best will,Their loyalty devoted, and love enduring still.So, thus at full commission'd, the envoys sprung to selle;The margravine at parting pray'd God to guard them well.
VI
Ere the despatchful minstrels had ridd'n Bavaria through,Swift Werbel found the bishop, Queen Kriemhild's uncle true.What to his Rhenish kinsmen by their mouths he saidCame never to my knowledge; but th' envoys gold so red
VII
He gave for a remembrance ere he let them part;But first thus spake good Pilgrin, "'Twould gladden sure my heartTo see them in Bavaria, these sister's sons of mine,Since I can hope so seldom to seek them by the Rhine."
VIII
What roads they took yet further, as to the Rhine they far'd,Is more than I can utter; none sure to pilfer dar'dTheir silver or their raiment; Etzel all had dread;His majesty and puissance so wide around were spread.
IX
Within twelve days, so riding, they came unto the Rhine,E'en to Worms, the minstrels Werbel and Swemmeline.To the kings and their liegemen forthwith the tidings ran,That come were foreign envoys. Gunther to ask began.
X
Thus said the Lord of Rhineland, "I fain would understand,Whence have the strangers journey'd who thus have sought our land."Not one to his inquiry could satisfaction bring,Till they were seen by Hagan, who thus bespake the king;
XI
"These must be weighty tidings; that can I vouch for true;Sure they are Etzel's minstrels whom here I have in view.Your sister sends them hither unless I much mistake;Let's give them hearty welcome for their great master's sake."
XII
At once up to the palace in fair array they rode;Never prince's minstrels before so lordly show'd.Forth stepp'd King Gunther's servants with courteous act and look,And led them to fit chambers, and in charge their raiment took.
XIII
So rich and so well fashion'd were the riding-vests they wore,That in them they with honor might go the king before;Still they resolv'd no longer the same at court to wear,But ask'd, "Who would accept them?" of those who loiter'd there.
XIV
It chanced that there were many, who were right well contentTo take their proffer'd bounty; to these they straight were sent.Then robes of such rare splendor put on the lofty guests,That well might royal envoys keep state in meaner vests.
XV
Straightway, with leave accorded, Etzel's servants wentTo where the king was sitting; kind looks were on them bent.To them in courteous fashion up stepp'd Sir Hagan brave,And warmly bade them welcome; due thanks in turn they gave.
XVI
Much after news inquir'd he, much after great and small,How it was with Etzel, how with his warriors all.The minstrel thus made answer, "The land was ne'er so well,The people ne'er so happy; this I for truth can tell."
XVII
To the host then went the envoys; throng'd was the palace wide;They met right courteous greeting from knights on every side,Such as in distant countries to noble guests is due.Werbel there found with Gunther many a champion bold and true.
XVIII
Courteously King Gunther greeted them as they stood;"Welcome to Worms, both welcome, ye Hunnish minstrels good,You and your worthy comrades; wherefore from HungaryHas noble Etzel sent you so far to Burgundy?"
XIX
Low bow'd they to King Gunther, then Werbel spake, "By meMy good king and thy sister their service send to thee,And their fraternal greeting with kind sincere intent.We to you knights of Rhineland in love and truth are sent."
XX
Then said the puissant Gunther, "This news I'm glad to hear;And how," asked he, "is Etzel, whom long I've held so dear,And my fair sister Kriemhild, who reigns in Hungary?"Then answer'd thus the minstrel, "I'll tell you faithfully.
XXI
"This take for true and certain, that never yet were seenPeople so blithe and merry as our good king and queen,Their vassals, and their kinsmen, and knights in bower and hall;The tidings of our journey rejoic'd them one and all."
XXII
"Thanks for his friendly message, which you so far have brought,And also for my sister's; it glads my inmost thoughtTo find they all live happy, both king and liegemen bold.I ask'd with fear and trembling before your tale was told."
XXIII
The two young kings together alike the presence sought.But just before, the tidings had to their ears been brought.Right glad to see the envoys for his dear sister's sakeWas the young knight Giselher, and friendly them bespake.
XXIV
"Welcome, ye noble envoys, welcome to me and mine;Should you be pleas'd more frequent to travel to the Rhine,Friends you would meet with ever who'd see you still with joy,And little you'd encounter to cause you here annoy."
XXV
"For that we freely trust you," straight answer'd Swemmeline;"Express ne'er could I fitly by wit or words of mineWhat kind and friendly greetings I from King Etzel bear,And from your noble sister, who reigns so proudly there.
XXVI
"Your love and old affection she bids you keep in mind,And how to her you ever in heart and soul were kind.But first to the king and foremost we come by high command,To beg you'd deign to travel hence into Etzel's land.
XXVII
"In strictest charge 'twas given us by our redoubted king,Unto you all this message on his account to bring,If you your loving sister are so resolv'd to shun,Yet fain would learn King Etzel, what he to you has done,
XXVIII
"That you to him such strangers and to his land have been;E'en were you distant aliens, nor kinsmen of his queen,He at your hands might merit that you his guests should be,And if this e'er should happen, right well content were he."
XXIX
Thereto replied King Gunther, "Before this sennight's end,I'll tell you, after counsel first ta'en with many a friend.What I shall have determin'd; meanwhile for you 'twere bestTo go back to your quarters and there in pleasure rest."
XXX
Then said the minstrel Werbel, "And might it also be,That you would permit us a little space to seeMy gracious Lady Uta ere we retire to rest?"Thereto assent Sir Giselher thus courteously express'd.
XXXI
"That no one will refuse you, and, would you thither go,Full well you'd please my mother, that for a truth I know;Surely for my sister the Lady Kriemhild's sakeShe will behold you gladly, and friendly welcome make."
XXXII
Giselher then led them where he the lady found;Full gladly she beheld them, the chiefs from Hunnish ground.She gave them friendly greeting, for she was good and wise;They then their charge deliver'd in grave and courtly guise.
XXXIII
"To you the queen my lady," thus noble Swemmeline spake,"Commends her love and duty; this you for truth may take,That if your royal daughter her mother oft could see,In all the world no pleasure more dear to her would be."
XXXIV
Thereto the queen made answer, "That cannot be, I fear;Much as 'twould glad me, often to see my daughter dear,She dwells from hence too distant, the noble Etzel's wife.May she and he together ever lead a happy life!
XXXV
"I pray you, give me notice, e'er you from Rhineland go,When you begin your journey; this too for certain know,That I never envoys with more content have seen."The squires to do her pleasure made promise to the queen.
XXXVI
The messengers from Hungary thence to their chambers went;Meanwhile in haste King Gunther round to his friends had sent,And, when all were assembled, inquir'd of every man,What thought they of the message; many then to speak began.
XXXVII
That into Etzel's country be might in safety ride,This all the best advis'd him, who stood there by his side,Save only stern Sir Hagan; he drew the king apart,And grimly frowning mutter'd, "You strike at your own heart.
XXXVIII
"You sure must still remember what we ere now have done.We must beware of Kriemhild for ever, every one.To the death her husband I smote with this good hand;How then can we with prudence set foot in Etzel's land?"
XXXIX
Then spake the mighty monarch, "She thinks no more of this;At parting she forgave us, with many a loving kiss,All we had done against her; her wrath is overblown.If she bear malice, Hagan, 'tis sure 'gainst you alone."
XL
"Trust not, Sir King," said Hagan, "how smooth soe'er they be,The messengers from Hungary; if Kriemhild you will see,You put upon the venture your honor and your life.A nurse of ling'ring vengeance is Etzel's moody wife."
XLI
Then took the word Prince Gernot, and in the council spake,"Because you with good reason believe your life at stakeIn yonder Hunnish kingdoms, must we too Kriemhild shun,And visit not our sister? that sure were wrongly done."
XLII
Then to the frowning warrior Prince Giselher turn'd his rede,"Since you know yourself guilty, friend Hagan, in this deed,Better stay here in safety, and of your life take care,And with us to our sister let journey those who dare."
XLIII
Thereat the Knight of Trony to kindle wrath began,"Never shall you, never, lead with you hence a manThat with you dare ride readier to visit your worst foe;Since you will not hear counsel, this I ere long will show."
XLIV
Then spake the steward Rumolt, a hardy knight and true;"You can dispose in Rhineland of friends and strangers tooAfter your own good pleasure; abundance have you here;No one, I ween, in Hungary has bound you to appear.
XLV
"Since you will not hear Hagan, to my advice attend;This is what Rumolt counsels, your firm and faithful friend;Stay here in peace and plenty; let those who need it roam,And let the great King Etzel cheer his fair queen at home.
XLVI
"Where can you be better for pleasure or repose?Where more with friends surrounded, and more secure from foes?So be wise and merry, the richest raiment wear,Drink the best wine in Rhineland, and woo the fairest fair.
XLVII
"Store have you too of dainties, the best and most to prizeThat ever feasted monarch, and, if 'twere otherwise,At home you still should tarry for love of your fair wife,Nor in such childish fashion expose your precious life.
XLVIII
"Stay here then, I beseech you; rich are your lawns and leas,Here every pledge of pleasure you may redeem with ease,Far better than in Hungary; who knows what there may rise?Stay here, my lord, and stir not; this is what I advise."
XLIX
"Stay will we not, assure thee," Prince Gernot answer'd straight;"How can we, when my sister and the great king, her mate,Have bidd'n us by a message so loving and so kind?Who will not freely with us may safely stay behind."
L
Thereto made Hagan answer, "Be not displeas'd at allWith what I now shall counsel, whatever hence befall.In faith and truth I warn you; would you in safety go,Ride well array'd to Hungary, and arm'd from top to toe.
LI
"Since you still will forward, for all your warriors send,For every valiant stranger and every trusted friend.From all I'll choose a thousand, each a well-proved knight;Thus you may rest in safety from moody Kriemhild's spite."
LII
"I gladly take thy counsel," the king at once replied;Throughout his lands despatch'd he his messengers far and wide.Three thousand knights or better came on with proud intent.Little thought they to purchase such doleful dreariment.
LIII
With jollity and joyance to Gunther's land they rode;On all, that proffer'd service, was horse and weed bestow'd,For soon were they to travel far from Burgundian ground.Many a good knight to join him the king right willing found.
LIV
Then Hagan told Sir Dankwart, his brother good at need,Eighty of their warriors forth to the Rhine to lead.Thither they came full knightly; the well-appointed bandHarness with them, and raiment, brought into Gunther's land.
LV
Folker, a noble minstrel, and eke a hardy knight,Came to partake their journey with thirty men of might,All clad in such apparel as well a king might wear;He bade announce to Gunther, to Hungary he'd fare.
LVI
Now, who was this same Folker, I'll tell you faithfully.He was a high-born warrior, and had in BurgundyMany good knights for vassals of honor undefil'd.For playing on the viol the minstrel he was styl'd.
LVII
Hagan chose out a thousand whom well before he knewIn stern assaults and forays for valiant men and true,And in all forms of battle their worth he oft had tried.Their well-approved prowess by none could be denied.
LVIII
Sore irk'd it Kriemhild's envoys to make so long a stay;They fear'd their lord's displeasure, and fain would speed away.They daily were entreating for leave at once to part,But Hagan still refus'd it through subtlety of heart.
LIX
To his lords he thus gave warning, "We must well bewareOf letting these ride homeward, unless ourselves we fareWithin a sennight after straight into Etzel's land.We shall be thus the safer if any fraud be plann'd.
LX
"With all her thirst for vengeance, Kriemhild will want the timeTo weave a web of mischief, and muster strength for crime,Or, if she strike too early, she'll be the sufferer then,Since we shall bring to Hungary such a host of chosen men."
LXI
Forthwith for many a champion, who thence would soon away,Prepar'd were shields and saddles and all the proud arrayThat to the land of Etzel each was with him to bring;Meanwhile Queen Kriemhild's envoys were call'd before the king.
LXII
Then thus began Sir Gernot to th' envoys there in place,"The king will do the bidding of royal Etzel's grace.Fain will we seek his festal, which it were ill to miss,And see once more our sister; she may depend on this."
LXIII
Then spake to them King Gunther, "Could you to us declareThe time of this high festal, and when we should be thereWith all our following present?" then Swemmeline made reply,"For the next midsummer is fix'd the festal high."
LXIV
The king then gave permission, not granted till that hour,If they wish'd to visit Dame Brunhild in her bower,With his free allowance thither at once to go,Then interpos'd Sir Folker (the queen would have it so).
LXV
"Just now my Lady Brunhild is not so well of cheer,"Said the good knight, "that strangers before her can appear.Wait until to-morrow; then you the queen may see."Much wish'd they to behold her, yet never could it be.
LXVI
Then in his gracious fashion commanded straight the kingThrough kindnes to the envoys forth his gold to bringSpread out on massy bucklers; good store thereof had he.Rich gifts his friends too gave them with liberal hand and free.
LXVII
Gernot alike and Giselher and Gary and OrtwineShow'd, they as well could lavish the treasures of the mine.Such rich gifts on the envoys were shower'd with one accord,That they durst not accept them through terror of their lord.
LXVIII
On this the messenger Swemmeline thus to the king 'gan say,"Sir King, needs must your presents here in your country stay;We cannot take them with us; our king has so decreed,And strictly that forbidden; besides, we've little need."
LXIX
Not little wonder'd Gunther, and felt displeasure more,That they refus'd such presents given from his royal store.Still he at last constrain'd them his gold and weed to take,And to the land of Etzel to bear them for his sake.
LXX
An audience of Queen Uta, ere they set out, they sought.Young Giselher the minstrels before his mother brought.The lady to her daughter by them this message sent,To hear of all her honors, it gave her full content.
LXXI
Girdles and gold she lavish'd, sure more than I can tell,Both for the sake of Kriemhild (for her she lov'd full well)And also of King Etzel, on those same minstrels brave;They willingly accepted what she sincerely gave.
LXXII
Their leave then took the envoys, well-gifted as might be,Of every noble warrior and every lady free.Thence on they rode to Swabia; Sir Gernot sent alongSo far his knights to guard them, that none should do them wrong.
LXXIII
When from the friends they parted, who had assur'd their way,In peace they went thenceforward, safe under Etzel's sway,That no man dar'd to pilfer their horses or their weed.So to the land of Etzel they prick'd with fiery speed.
LXXIV
Whom true they found and friendly, them told they all and some,That the bold Burgundians would shortly thither comeFrom the Rhine into Hungary, as Etzel them had pray'd.Also to Bishop Pilgrin like tidings were convey'd.
LXXV
As they nigh to Bechlaren came riding down the road,Twas told to good Sir Rudeger, who there in peace abode,And to the Lady Gotelind, the noble margravine.To hear she soon would see them, right glad was she, I ween.
LXXVI
On went they with the tidings, fast sped they horse and man;The minstrels found King Etzel in his good town of Gran.Greetings upon greetings were sent from Rhine, they said,All there were at his service; for joy he glow'd a merry red.
LXXVII
When the queen heard for certain (what she so long had plann'd)That her long absent brethren would come into the land,She swam in joy and rapture; richly for service doneThe minstrels she requited; high honor thus she won.
LXXVIII
Then thus she spake, "Now tell me, Werbel and Swemmeline,Who to our feast are coming of kin and friends of mine,Into this land invited with many a friendly word;And tell, too, what said Hagan, when he the tidings heard."
LXXIX
"Early upon a morning to the council-board he came;Little there he utter'd but words of gloom and blame;And when the jaunt to Hungary was voted in a breath,He grimly smil'd and mutter'd, 'This jaunt's a jaunt to death.'
LXXX
"There are your brethren coming, the noble kings all three,In lofty mood and joyous; who there besides may be,We could not learn for certain, else would we nothing hide.The valiant gleeman Folker agreed with them to ride."
LXXXI
"I could have spar'd full lightly the minstrel's presence here,"Replied the wife of Etzel; "this gives me little cheer;I'm well inclin'd to Hagan; he is of courage high;To have him here among us right well content am I."
LXXXII
Then in haste went Kriemhild where sat King Etzel near;How kindly she bespake him! "My lord and husband dear,What thinks't thou of these tidings, thou, who this feast hast will'd?My heart's long lingering wishes shall now be all fulfill'd."
LXXXIII
"Thy wishes are my pleasure," the smiling king replied,"Ne'er with my own good kinsmen was I so satisfied,Whene'er into my country they have been pleas'd to fare;Through love of thy brave brethren has vanish'd all my care."
LXXXIV
The officers of Etzel forthwith bestirr'd them all,With fitting seats to furnish palace as well as hallFor the dear guests, approaching the merry feast to keep.They gave him cause thereafter full bitterly to weep.
I
But let us tell no further how there the work they plied.Never to a king's country were known before to rideSuch well-appointed squadrons as thither were to speed.They had whate'er they wanted, both weapons and eke weed.
II
The King of Rhine apparel gave to his liegemen bold,To threescore and a thousand, as I have heard it told,Beside nine thousand yeomen, on mirth and revel bent.Those, whom they left behind them, soon rued that e'er they went.
III
In Worms, as their equipment was carrying through the court,From Spire an aged bishop, of reverend report,Thus bespake fair Uta, "Our worthy friends prepareTo yonder feast to travel; God watch and ward them there!"
IV
Thereon the noble Uta bespake her children dear,"Far better stay, good heroes, and tend your safety here.I had last night, my children, a dream of ghastly dread,How all the birds, that flutter throughout this land, were dead."
V
"Who cares for dreams," said Hagan, "and thinks by them to walk,Ne'er in the path of honor with sturdy steps can stalk,Or breathe the voice of reason, but wavers to and fro.I rede, my noble master take leave and forward go.
VI
"Yes, we shall ride full gladly hence into Etzel's land.There kings need for their service many a good hero's hand,And this fair feast of Kriemhild's awaits us there to view."So Hagan urg'd the journey, which soon he came to rue.
VII
He ne'er had giv'n such counsel but for what late had pass'd,When scorn on him Sir Gernot had so unseemly cast,Reminding him of Siegfried, and what had erst been done,As though for that dislik'd him the journey to the Hun.
VIII
Then answer'd he of Trony, "Fear prompts not what I rede.If so you'll have it, heroes, fall to the work and speed;You'll find me not the hindmost to ride to Etzel's realm."Soon shatter'd he thereafter many a shield and many a helm.
IX
The boats were waiting ready, the band was muster'd there;Thither his choice apparel each one made haste to bear.Their toil was scarce well over ere eve fell on the lea;So from their homes they parted as merry as might be.
X
Beyond the Rhine's fair current their hasty camp was seen;There tents and proud pavilions bespotted all the green.The lovely queen her husband detain'd for that one night,The last they spent together, dole mingling with delight.
XI
At early dawn there sounded sweet flute and trumpet-clang;'Twas the hour of parting; to work the warriors sprang.With a hasty kiss fond lovers were then constrain'd to sever.With woe and death fell Kriemhild soon sunder'd them for ever.
XII
The children of fair Uta a man had at their court,Bold alike and faithful, in all of best report.The same, as they were going, drew the king aside."Woe's me," said he, "dear master, you to this feast will ride."
XIII
The good knight's name was Rumolt, a tall man of his hands.Said he, "To whom commit you your people and your lands?Would one could turn your warriors to do what best you should;This message of your sister's it never seem'd me good."
XIV
"This is my will and pleasure; to thee my infant heir,To thee I trust my country; of the women take good care;Whomever thou see'st weeping, his woe with comfort charm.Sure at the hands of Kriemhild we ne'er can come to harm."
XV
For the kings and for their liegemen the steeds were ready ranged;How many then, with kisses of true love interchanged,Full flown with lively vigor, athirst for bold emprise,Left each a stately lady to droop in tears and sighs.
XVI
When light into their saddles up sprang the warriors good,Then might you see the women how sorrowful they stood.All felt, they did for ever, and to their doom, depart,A dreary, dark foreboding, that shakes the firmest heart!
XVII
As the bold Burgundians rode forth in gallant show,To see them all the country ran hurrying to and fro.On either side the mountains both men and women wept.Little reck'd they the weepers; their joyous course they kept.
XVIII
In habergeons a thousand the knights of Nibelung's reign,Who many a lovely lady they ne'er should see againHad left at home in sorrow, rode gaily with the rest.The wounds of Siegfried fester'd in Kriemhild's throbbing breast.
XIX
So went they ever onward until the Main they spied,Thence up through Eastern Frankland the men of Gunther hied.Well knew the roads Sir Hagan, who led their steps aright;Their marshal was Sir Dankwart, the stout Burgundian knight.
XX
As on from Eastern Frankland to Schwanfeld still they rode,Their grace and stately courtesy and knightly bearing show'd,The princes and their kindred deserv'd their lofty fame.The king on the twelfth morning unto the Danube came.
XXI
A space the Knight of Trony rode on before the host;He still the Nibelungers best cheer'd and aided most.The fear-defying champion alighted on the lea,And fast beside the river his horse tied to a tree.
XXII
Swoln was the roaring river, bark was there none to spy;Every bold Nibelunger look'd on with wistful eyeIn doubt how to pass over, the surges spread so wide.Many a good knight from saddle down sprung the stream beside.
XXIII
"Good Lord of Rhine," said Hagan, "much mischief here may be,Much may'st thou have to suffer, as thou thyself may'st see.Strong is the flood and furious, the stream can ill be cross'd.Many a good knight, I fear me, will here to-day be lost."
XXIV
"Why dost thou check me, Hagan?" the troubled king 'gan say;"Do not, as thou are valiant, the daunted more dismay.Look out a ford up higher, above these lower meads,Where we may pass in safety our baggage and our steeds."
XXV
"I never," answer'd Hagan, "my life so weary found,But in these burly billows 'twould irk me to be drown'd.Many a knight of Etzel's, ere yet my day be o'er,By this good hand shall perish; that, 'faith, would please me more.
XXVI
"So here beside the water, ye noble knights, abide;Myself will seek the ferrymen along the river side,And bid them bring us over hence into Gelfrat's land."With that the sturdy Hagan took his good shield in hand.
XXVII
Well arm'd was the stern champion; he bore a shield of might;Strongly lac'd was his helmet, well-temper'd, burnish'd bright;His broadsword in a baldric hung o'er his armor sheen;Wounds could it cut full ghastly with both its edges keen.
XXVIII
As there and here for boatmen look'd out the warrior good,He heard a splash of water; listening awhile he stood.The sound came from wise women, who took their pleasure near,Bathing for refreshment in a fountain cool and clear.
XXIX
'Ware of them was Hagan; nigh he closely crept;Sudden they espied him,—how away they swept!That they had so escap'd him, their bosoms swell'd with joy;He seiz'd upon their raiment, nor wrought them more annoy.
XXX
Then one of them bespake him (Hadburg was her name),"Noble knight, Sir Hagan, go seek a worthier game.Give us back our raiment, and we will tell thee allThat from this march to Hungary shall thee and thine befall."
XXXI
Like water-hens they floated before him on the wave.Him seem'd, their well-known wisdom of truth assurance gave;Hence what they chose to tell him, he took with more belief.Then thus they of the future resolv'd the listening chief.
XXXII
Said th' one, "To Etzel's country (doubt not what Hadburg saith)You well may ride and safely, for that I pledge my faith,And never band of heroes sought kingdom far or nearTo win such height of honor; 'tis true as we are here."
XXXIII