Page:The lay of the Nibelungs; (IA nibelungslay00hortrich).pdf/196

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Now that the guests departing all on their way were sped,

Siegfried the son of Siegmund unto his people said:

“We likewise must make ready home to our land to go.”

Well liked his wife these tidings, when she the news did know.

She spake unto her husband: “When must we needs set out?

That I should go thus quickly I very much misdoubt;

For firstly must my brothers with me the kingdom share.”

’Twas irksome unto Siegfried from Kriemhild this to hear.

The princes went unto him and spake to him, all three:

“Now be assured, Sir Siegfried, that yours shall ever be

Our true and faithful service, ay, even unto death!”

He bowed unto the princes who pledged him thus their faith:

“We would with you share also,” said Giselher the young,

“The lands and eke the castles which unto us belong.

Whate’er of this wide kingdom be subject to our rule,

Together with Kriemhilda, that shall you share in full.”

Thereon the son of Siegmund said to the princes three,

As soon as of these nobles the goodwill he did see:

“Your heritage, God grant it for ever blesséd be,

And eke the folk within it! But, for my dear wife, she