Page:The Nibelungenlied - tr. Shumway - 1909.pdf/320

262 Quoth he: “Now give over these threats and stand further back, or I’ll wet the armor rings of some with blood. I’ll tell the tale at court myself and make plaint to my lords of my great dole.”

So sorely he dismayed King Etzel’s men that they durst not withstand him with their swords, so they shot such great store of darts into his shield that he must needs lay it from his hand for very heaviness. Then they weened to overpower him, sith he no longer bare a shield. Ho, what deep wounds he struck them through their helmets! From this many a brave man was forced to reel before him, and bold Dankwart gained thereby great praise. From either side they sprang upon him, but in truth a many of them entered the fray too soon. Before his foes he walked, as doth a boar to the woods before the dogs. How might he be more brave? His path was ever wet with reeking blood. Certes, no single champion might ever fight better with his foes than he had done. Men now saw Hagen’s brother go to court in lordly wise. Sewers and cup-bearers heard the ring of swords, and full many a one cast from his hand the drink and whatever food he bare to court. Enow strong foes met Dankwart at the stairs.

“How now, ye sewers,” spake the weary knight. “Forsooth ye should serve well the guests and bear to the lords good cheer and let me bring the tidings to my dear masters.”

Those that sprang towards him on the steps to show their prowess, he dealt so heavy a sword-stroke, that for fear they must needs stand further back. His mighty strength wrought mickle wonders.