Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/139

VI.]

And friendly mutual glances, and looks that were not loth,

Caused many a thought to waken within the hearts of both.

He in his heart aye bore her, dear as his very life;

And soon, by steadfast service, he won her for his wife.

The rich king spake unto her: “O dearest sister mine,

This thing that we have purposed fails without help of thine.

In Queen Brunhilda’s country some pleasure we desire;

And need, in ladies’ presence, the goodliest attire.”

Then did the maiden answer: “Belovéd brother mine,

Ready am I, at all times, to serve, in need of thine:—

Of that thou mayst be certain: it is Kriembhilda’s part.

Should any one deny thee ’twould vex her to the heart.

“Nor shouldst thou, noble hero, beg of me anxiously,—

Thou shouldst command my service, in lordly style and free.

For whatsoever please thee, for that I’m ready aye,

And gladly will I do it;” the maiden sweet did say.

“’Tis our desire, dear sister, in goodly garb to stand,

Which you may help provide us, with your own noble hand;

So set your women working, that all may be well done,—

For we about this journey will be gainsaid by none.”

Then spake again the maiden: “Now mark what I shall say!

I have the silk already: see that we get, straightway,

Some gems from off your bucklers: we’ll work them on the cloth.”

Then Gunther and Sir Siegfried obeyed her, nothing loth.