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cried Margrave Iring of Denmark: “I have striven for honor now long time, and in the storm of battle have been among the best. Now bring me my harness, for in sooth I will encounter me with Hagen.”

“I would not counsel that,” spake Hagen, “but bid the Hunnish knights stand further back. If twain of you or three leap into the hall, I’ll send them back sore wounded down the steps.”

“Not for that will I give it over,” quoth Iring again. I’ve tried before such daring things; in truth with my good sword I will encounter thee alone. What availeth all thy boasting, which thou hast done in words?”

Then were soon arrayed the good Knight Irving and Irnfried of Thuringia, a daring youth, and the stalwart Hawart and full a thousand men. Whatever Iring ventured, they would all fain give him aid. Then the fiddler spied a mighty troop, that strode along well armed with Iring. Upon their heads they bare good helmets. At this bold Folker waxed a deal full wroth of mood. “See ye, friend Hagen, Iring striding yonder, who vowed to match you with his sword alone? How doth lying beseem a hero? Much that misliketh me. There walk with him full a thousand knights or more, well armed.”