Page:Norse mythology or, the religion of our forefathers, containing all the myths of the Eddas, systematized and interpreted with an introduction, vocabulary and index.djvu/386

 dug a large grave and went down into it. When Fafner now crept away from the gold he spit poison, but this flew over Sigurd's head, and as Fafner passed over the grave Sigurd pierced him with his sword to the heart. Fafner trembled convulsively, and fiercely shook his head and tail. Sigurd sprang out of the grave when they saw each other. Then a conversation takes place between them, in which Fafner heaps curses upon Sigurd until the former expires. Regin had gone away while Sigurd killed Fafner, but came back while Sigurd was wiping the blood off the sword.

REGIN:

Hail to thee now, Sigurd! Now thou best victory won And Fafner slain. Among all men who tread the earth Most fearless I proclaim thee to be born.

SIGURD:

Uncertain it is to know, When we all come together, Sons of victorious gods, Who was born most fearless; Many a man is brave Who still does not thrust the blade Into another man's breast.

REGIN:

Glad art thou now, Sigurd, Glad of thy victory. As thou wipest Gram on the grass. Thou hast my Brother wounded, Let myself have some share therein.

SIGURD:

It was thou who caused That I should ride