Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/123

IV.]

For love of the fair maiden he thought he still would stay,—

Perchance he yet might see her: which came to pass one day,

Just as he most desiréd;— he learnt to know the maid,

Thereafter to his country right joyously he sped.

Each day in knightly contests the host would prove his men:

Which willingly were practised by many a proud young thane.

Then had he seats erected by Worms, upon the strand,

For those whom he awaited in his Burgundian land.

About this time, when well-nigh the coming guests were due,

The beauteous Kriemhilda heard what he had in view:

That he, with friends, was meaning to keep high festival,

Then was a great commotion among the fair dames all

As to the robes and ribands ’twere best for each to wear,

Unto the rich queen Uté the tidings straight they bear

Of the proud stranger-warriors, who now were on their way.

Then from her presses took she rich clothes and raiment gay.

For love of her dear children she had these garments made,

Wherewith were soon adornéd full many a dame and maid,

And many a bold young hero of the Burgundian land.

For many strangers, likewise, rich clothes she did command.