Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/101

III.]

All honour too was shown them, on that and many a day,

A thousand times more honour than I can ever say!

This had his boldness gained him; and this is true I state:

That seldom any saw him who long could bear him hate.

On pastimes now and pleasure the kings and court were set.

But, whatsoe’er they started, he outstript all men yet:

For none could equal Siegfried, nor come his strength anear,—

Whether it were stone-putting, or shooting with the spear.

And when by courtly custom they will’d their games to play

In presence of the ladies,— these knights of humour gay,—

Approving glances followed the prince of Netherland.

Yet his heart brooded ever on loftier love, at hand.

Though to whate’er was passing he lent a ready mind,

One gracious maiden ever he in his heart did find;—

So, likewise, did the damsel, whom yet he had not seen,

Incline to him in secret, and talk of him, I ween.

When in the court the young folk their warlike games began,

The knights and their attendants, Kriemhilda straightway ran

And watched them from the window, king’s daughter tho’ she were,

Nor while it fasted did she for other pastime care.

And had he known she watched him, whom in his heart he bore,

It had been ample pleasure,— he would have asked no more.

And could his eyes have seen her, ye need not to be told

No better bliss and greater for him this world could hold.