Page:The Mediaeval Mind Vol 1.djvu/173

CHAP. VIII shame," answers Kudrun—a great answer, in its truth and self-control.

After an interval of kind treatment the old "she-wolf" Gerlint sets Kudrun with her faithful Hildeburg to washing clothes in the sea. It is winter; their garments are mean, their feet are naked. They see a boat approaching, in which are Kudrun's brother Ortwin, and Herwig her betrothed, who had come before their host as spies. A recognition follows. Herwig is for carrying them off; Ortwin forbids it. "With open force they were taken; my hand shall not steal them back"; dear as Kudrun is, he can take her only nâch êren (as becomes his honour). When they have gone, Kudrun throws the clothes to be washed into the sea. "No more will I wash for Gerlint; two kings have kissed me and held me in their arms."

Kudrun returns to the castle, which soon is stormed. She saves Hartmuth and his sister from the slaughter, and all sail home, where the thought is now of wedding festivals.

Kudrun is married to Herwig; at her advice Ortwin weds Ortrun, and then she thinks of Hartmuth's plight, and asks her friend Hildeburg whether she will have him for a husband. Hildeburg consents. Kudrun commands that Hartmuth be brought, and bids him be seated by the side of her dear friend "who had washed clothes along with her!"

"Queen, you would reproach me with that. I grieved at the shame they put on you. It was kept from me."

"I cannot let it pass. I must speak with you alone, Hartmuth."

"God grant she means well with me," thought he. She took him aside and spoke: "If you will do as I bid, you will part with your troubles."

Hartmuth answered: "I know you are so noble that your behest can be only honourable and good. I can find nothing in my heart to keep me from doing your bidding gladly, Queen." The high quality of speech between these two will rarely be outdone.

There is directness and troth in all these German poems. Troth is an ideal which must carry truth within it. The more thoughtful and reflecting German spirit will evince