Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/181

X.]

But when it grew towards even and near the sun’s last ray—

Seeing the air was cooler— they would no more delay.

Then many a knight and lady toward the castle rode.

On many a beauteous woman were loving looks bestow’d.

And now they raced for raiment such as good knights do wear,

These highly-mettled warriors,— as was the custom there,—

Until they reach’d the palace; there did the king dismount,

And they the ladies aided as gallant knights be wont.

Now, too, the royal ladies did from each other part.

Queen Uté and her daughter together did depart,

With all their court-attendants, unto a chamber wide.

Then shouts of joy and laughter were heard on ev’ry side.

The seats being set in order, the royal Gunther would

Go with his guests to supper; ’twas seen how by him stood

The beautiful Brunhilda; and now a crown she wore,

As queen in her king’s kingdom;— well worth was she therefore.

Fine seats were set for many, by tables broad and good—

As we have been assuréd— laid with abundant food.

Of all that they could wish for how little lack was seen!

And with the king was many a guest of lordly mien.

The host’s own body-servants, in ewers of red gold,

Did fetch and carry water. If you should e’er be told

That at a prince’s wedding the service was more fit,

’Twould trouble me but little— I’d put no faith in it!